England's faithful monitor being the works of that suffering Protestant Mr. Stephen Husnance when under exile and confinement in the years 1685 and 1686 : wherein popery is briefly demonstrated to be a wicked religion ... Husnance, Stephen. This text is an enriched version of the TCP digital transcription A45233 of text R26070 in the English Short Title Catalog (Wing H3811). Textual changes and metadata enrichments aim at making the text more computationally tractable, easier to read, and suitable for network-based collaborative curation by amateur and professional end users from many walks of life. The text has been tokenized and linguistically annotated with MorphAdorner. The annotation includes standard spellings that support the display of a text in a standardized format that preserves archaic forms ('loveth', 'seekest'). Textual changes aim at restoring the text the author or stationer meant to publish. This text has not been fully proofread Approx. 608 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 126 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. EarlyPrint Project Evanston,IL, Notre Dame, IN, St. Louis, MO 2018 A45233 Wing H3811 ESTC R26070 09344134 ocm 09344134 42785 2264208905

This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. Searching, reading, printing, or downloading EEBO-TCP texts is reserved for the authorized users of these project partner institutions. Permission must be granted for subsequent distribution, in print or electronically, of this EEBO-TCP Phase II text, in whole or in part.

 Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 2, no. A45233) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 42785) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 1310:11) England's faithful monitor being the works of that suffering Protestant Mr. Stephen Husnance when under exile and confinement in the years 1685 and 1686 : wherein popery is briefly demonstrated to be a wicked religion ... Husnance, Stephen. [22], 213 [i.e. 221] p. Printed for the authour, London : 1689. In verse. Reproduction of original in the Bodleian Library. eng Catholic Church -- Controversial literature -- Poetry. eebo England's faithful monitor: being the works of that suffering Protestant, Mr. Stephen Husnance, when under exile and confinement, in the years 1685. a Husnance, Stephen 1689 252 96524 14 0 0 0 0 0 1.45 B The rate of 1.45 defects per 10,000 words puts this text in the B category of texts with fewer than 10 defects per 10,000 words. 2009-02 Assigned for keying and markup 2009-04 Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2009-05 Sampled and proofread 2009-05 Text and markup reviewed and edited 2009-09 Batch review (QC) and XML conversion

ENGLAND'S Faithful MONITOR : Being the WORKS of that Suffering Protestant , Mr. STEPHEN HVSNANCE , when under Exile and Confinement , in the Years 1685. and 1686.

Wherein Popery , is briefly demonstrated To be a Wicked Religion , by Scripture stated : As Mass , Popish Pardons , and Purgatory , Praying to Angels , Popish Penance , a Story . Worshipping Images , and Merits , may see In this book , are wicked , in every degree . The Fundamentals of Religion are debated , And the Protestant Religion vindicated . Many Gospel Truths this Book doth open , I believed , and therefore have I spoken . PSAL. 116.10 . I will go in the Strength of the Lord , I will make mention , as Scriptures record , Of the Righteousness of Christ alone By Faith , without which Salvation , none . PSAL. 71.16 . Gospel Worship , by Scripture I avow , By 's Grace , who taught me first to plow. ISA. 28.6 . Here is Englands Faithful Monitor Would have all men their Sin abhor . By Repentance , and real Reformation , Now , under Gods wonderfull Dispensation . Here 's Scripture Truth drawn in one Chain , Tells all unconverted , must be born again . Many Extreams , and Objections disputed , Gospel Truths cleared , and Errors refuted . Wherein Christ is exalted to that degree , Without Interest in Christ , none saved be . How to do Duty , but rest on none For Salvation , but on CHRIST alone . Written by a poor Suffering Protestant , By Grave knows how to abound and want . First written for Comfort of my Souls Ends , Now much inlarg'd by Importunity of Friends .

LONDON , Printed for the Authour , 1689.

THE EPISTLE DEDICATORY , To his Honoured and most Worthy Friend , Major Manly . SIR , SVch Impulsions I within me at present feel , In which I admire God's providential Wheel , Ezek. 10.13 . In seeing God's goodness in your preservation When under Exile , from your native Nation , Rev. 1.9 . And being prohibited by a Proclamation : Also the great trouble had in your station , Standing for the welfare of the Nation : Your judicious understanding , Sir , 1 Cor. 10.15 . in relation Vnto State Affairs , and virtuous Inclination For Gospel-religion , Sir , in your generation , I have made unto your Worship this Dedication ; Hoping your Clemency , Sir , will you excite To accept of , as it were , Sir , a Widdows Mite . Mar. 12.42 . Oh may it do good in this wicked generation , That Men may see their great abomination Of all sorts of wickedness in the Nation , Ezek. 14.6 . And repent of them by real Reformation , Vnder , this God's wonderful Dispensation , Before God's wrath fall , or desolation feel , Admire God's Works of wonder , Ezek. 1.20 . and cry , O Wheel ! God's rod is now , Sir , hovering over us , Foundations of the Earth are out of course , And without Reformation it will be worse Psal. 82.5 . In England , for wickedness is little remorse . I fear and tremble , Sir , the storm is not past , Sin will cause on all Attempts a blast . Though Popery now go out o' th' Land amain , Yet , Joh. 4.20 . Sir , if we old Customs still retain , And don 't from superstitious Worship refrain , It will provoke God to bring Popery again : Mat. 23.32 . Mercy and Judgments calls England repent , But instead of it , murmuring and discontent . What a Chaos of Confusion we are under At present , consider England's sins , 't is no wonder . Many dangers and fears , Sir , lye upon us , Yet , Sir , I tell you it may be worse . Observe this Dispensation , Mat. 24.10 . though peace be intended , Yet how many in the Nation are offended ? Many are for Onyons and Garlick of Aegypt , Psa. 106.14 , 15. Will-worship , 'till God lash us with his Whip . Oh when will England's eyes be open , say I ? This unto us , Sir , the Scriptures descry ; Before Christ's coming the Moon and the Sun Joel 3.15 . Shall be darkened , the Stars also as they run Shall withdraw their light , Act. 2.20 . as though done . For the Lord will roar out of Sion , Vtter his Voice from Jerusalem like a Lyon , Joel 3.16 . The Heavens and the Earth shall shake ; Did not Bishops and Priests lately quake ? Isa. 33.1 . God will shake also e're long Sea and Land , That is , will move all Nations , understand ; From the highest to the lowest deem'd , Hag. 2.7 . Kings and Beggars to Christ all one esteem'd : Not only Earth will shake , Temporal power , But Heaven , Ecclesistical , in that hour . Once more , signifieth not only shaking , Heb. 12.26 , 27. But the removing things of Mens making , Because all these were made with hands , By power and authority of Mens Commands And Inventions ; then they will see plain How they have worshipped God in vain . Mar. 7.7 . But those things which must remain Are from God , not to be shaken once again , For Christ will his Truth still maintain , Will destroy all that don't desire his reign . Luke 19.27 . God hath lifted up now his powerful hand Against such who will not yet understand His way of Worship , behold now England , How hath God wrought for us without delays , Isa. 26.10 , 11.12 . And Curs'd all Men of corrupt ways ; This is God's end , that England should feel , Acknowledge God's overruling providential Wheel . There is a Curse to all that don't understand Or consider the operation of Jehovah's hand : Isa. 5.12 . How hath God , Sir , wicked Men withstood , Who design'd Protestants lives and blood ; Who had been in blood before now involv'd , Had not God in mercy their Plots dissolv'd : This is the Lords doing , Sir , in our dayes , Psal. 118.23 . And should be marvellous in our eyes . God calls now aloud , not only by his Word , But also his Works of wonder , now record A Summons to give God glory , Psal. 96.7 , 8. as doth appear Both by works of Mercy and Justice clear . Many a time his anger hath turned away From us , hath not , Sir , unto this day Made a full end of us , even when we Highly provok'd God in such a degree So to to do ; Psal. 82.5 . Oh let 's not now in sin grow worse , Though the World and Men are out of course ! God's Throne is in Darkness , Scripture saith , Which to us is the only Rule of Faith. God's Wheels of Providence in their race Are very difficult , Psal. 145.3 . Sir , for us to trace And find out ; let 's admire his Free-grace For Gospel-liberty we had every place ; Let us admire now God's Works of wonder , In guiding the King we did live under , Prov. 21.1 . By inclining the King's Heart to a Talleration , So to enjoy Gospel-liberty in the Nation , 'Till this , Psal. 82.1 . Jehovah's wonderful Dispensation , God over-rules Men , Sir , in their generation , Beyond Mens Designs , & 86.10 . and their Intention ; God is God alone , as the Scriptures mention . Who would have said , Sir , under that storm , The other Year , we should enjoy such a Calm ? Blessed be God for his refreshing Balm ! By the Prince of Orange in the Nation , Jer. 51.28 , 29 , 30 , 37. Whom the Lord hath call'd by his Dispensation To be King of England in his generation , To work , I hope , England's Reformation , And so prevent England's Desolation . I hope King William , Sir , will be instrumental , Chief under Christ of great Babylon's fall . For as Scriptures are truth without exemption , The time draws near of Sion's redemption ; Luke 21.28 . For before the Year 1700. we see or feel Great turnings will be of God's providential Wheel . Not , Sir , that I have a prophetical spirit given , But what Scripture reveals , as my Name 's Stephen ; God is sometimes pleas'd to suffer exasperation To go high , Sir , that his power in a Nation May appear more eminent in Mens station Isa. 42.8 . In composing of them for t' stop 's desolation ; Puts a stop to the great'st danger , 't is no story , This course God takes for his own glory : God makes Men's wrath now him to praise , Psal. 76.10 . And remainders of wrath stops in our days . Let 's cry , O the Wheel within the Wheel ! Ezek. 10.10 . Oh may England his operating work feel , To be reformed ! least the Wheel of Providence Run as fast backward now from hence , Jer. 15.6 , 7. As ever it did forward for us by descent . O let England by Reformation now repent ! Ezek. 10.17 . Let 's now the motions of the Wheel discern , Psal. 86.10 . For of all second Causes God sits at stern . God works clear contrary to expectation Isa. 55.8 . & 11.6 , 7. Of most ; is not this truth in our Nation ? The Wolf and the Lamb together dwell , The Leopard with the Kid , Scriptures tell , The Cow and the Bear together feed . Sure those things do from God proceed . For many who smell like a Kirkish Verment , Mat. 7.15 , 16. Can now , Sir , put on a Lamb-like garment . What 's too hard for the Lord to effect ? Is not God of infinite power to protect Psal. 145.3 . His People ? let 's depend on God , Psal. 146.3 , 5. and respect Men but as Instruments in Jehovah's hand ; If God throws down , then none can stand : This in England we have seen , O may we feel God's Spirit , reforming us under this Wheel Of Providence ! for of all Kings God is greater , God can bring Meat out of the Eater ; 1 Tim. 6.15 . God can bring Water out of the Rock ; Let all Worship God , Psal. 78.15 , 16. not stones and stock . If God be God , worship him in Faith , Not superstitiously , Idol Baal , Scripture saith God is a Spirit , 1 King 18.21 . and requires Age or Youth To worship him in spirit and in truth : Not like Book-worship , John 4.24 . which I could tell How some limit the Holy One of Israel By their Forms , Psal. 78.41 . and still dead Liturgies desire , But all this while where 's the Spirit of Prayer . We know not how to Pray as we ought , 'Till God's Spirit work it in our thought . Rom. 8.26 . If Prayer , Communion with God be in a Book , What need the Spirit any farther look ? Vers. 9. Yet without the Liturgy there 's no Devotion , But Schism , Act. 28.22 . a Sect , or some despised Notion . But not to enlarge here , let none strife For a dead Form , 't is the Spirit giveth life : Bodily exercise profiteth little , not at all Without the Spirit , Joh. 6.63 . he giveth life in all . Yet many for the Church of England cry , Yet never are reformed by their Liturgy : What is highly esteem'd with Men in a Nation , Is unto Jehovah in Scripture an abomination . Luk. 16.15 . Demetrius , Acts 19.24 , to 29. the Scripture tells us plain , His soul was meerly for self-ended gain ; Sirs , You know by this Craft you and I Have our Wealth , therefore against Paul cry , For great is Diana of the Ephesians so high , Whom the World worshipeth , Paul's Doctrine defie ; And so a Confusion they brought to pass , Forsook Paul for love of worldly gain like Demas . 2 Tim. 4.10 . And others too , Sir , now in our Nation , To define who , I 'le leave to your Consideration . What 's a Form of Godliness without the power by ? 2 Tim. 3.5 . Without the Spirit 's operation what 's a Liturgy ? Yea , the purest Forms of Worship rested in , Without Faith and Practice are all but sin . Rom. 14.23 . Out-side forms of Worship are but the shell , The Spirit breaks the Nut , gives the kernel . 1 Cor. 3.6 , 7. Many rest in a form of Godliness in their race , As if Duties ex opere operato could conferr Grace . A lifeless formality is esteem'd in the World high , Tit. 1.16 . As a Kab of Doves dung was sold , Scriptures descry , In the Famine of Samaria , at a very dear rate ; 2 Kings 6.25 . What 's a Profession without Practice for an eternal state ? He that Professeth , and doth not Christ's Command , Is like the foolish , building his house in the sand ; Mat. 7.26 , 27. What 's a Liturgy , or any Book to stand upon ? 'T is a sandy-foundation to build Salvation on , Let 's use Ordinances , but rest on none For Salvation , but on Jesus Christ alone . To draw , Sir , to a Conclusion , only this I Note ; Levit. 19.19 . God under the Law forbids a linsey-woolsey Coat ; Then sure under the Gospel there 's no Institution For a Surplice , but from a Papal Pollution . But to say no more at present , your judicious Eye , 1 Cor. 10.15 . Sir , knows very well what my lines imply . Concerning Worship , at large my lines impart , Which I present unto you , Sir , with my Heart . Also a word of Free grace is here demonstrated , 2 Pet. 3.1 , 2. And the arrogancy of Free-will is dilated . Also a word of Love in the latter end , To know real from feigned , as many pretend : Here is some Meat , though in a homely dress , I aim at Matter , I am no Poet I confess : Yet here 's Gospel-truth , as much as those For bulk as write , Sir , now in Prose ; For here 's no phantasticol Rhime or Verse , Col. 2.8 . But Scripture-truths it doth full express , By the Spirit 's operation I hope , Col. 2.12 . Sir , in all , Being written when none cared for my Soul ; When Father and Mother did me forsake , God his Promise good unto me did make : Psal. 27.10 , 11. When under that great hour of temptation , Rev. 3.10 . When betrayed Monmouth came in the Nation ; Then God preserv'd me wonderfully in those dayes , Psal. 107.8 . Bless God , & 103.2 . O my Soul , O give God the Praise ! Thus , 1 Cor. 10.15 . Sir , I have given you a fore-taste Of what my lines contain , now I haste An end ; on your Patience , Sir , I have intruded , With Prayer for you my Epistle is concluded : Exod. 23.23 . The Angel of the Covenant still stand by Your Worship , to protect you from your Enemy ; Jehovah bless you , Sir , I wish you well , Grace be to you , Gal. 6.16 . and to all God's Israel . To God my Prayer for you shall advance , While I am , 2 Tim. 4.22 . SIR , Your Servant , Stephen Husnance .
THE PROLOGUE TO THE READER . THese Lines to one , not supernatural learn'd , Dan. 12.12 . May seem a Paradox , are spiritual discern'd : They my Meditations , 2 Cor. 2.14 . when I expected Death Every hour , but God preserv'd Life and Breath . Act. 17.25 . The remainder of my few and evil dayes I may live to my Redeemer , and to his praise ; Gen. 47.9 . And that from self , I may be set free ; I live , not I , but Christ which lives in me : Gal. 2.20 . These things were then as seed in the hulk , Now through Grace grown to a greater bulk : As God freely gives Seed , Mat. 10.8 . so will I sow In my Generation in love what I know . My Talent God hath given , I will not hide , & 25.18.29 . But for my Makers Glory shall be imploy'd : Into the Treasury will cast the Widows mite , Mark 12.42 . Leaving inlargement to those better can indite : Let none despise my Youth , Job 32.6 , 8. I have often said Days and years should speak , I was afraid To shew my Opinion , till fire burn'd amain , Jer. 20.9 . & 23.29 . No longer in my Breast it would contain . Thô I am of a shallow Capacity and weak , The more God's Power appears , if's Spirit speak : In them Lord let thy glorious Power appear , In an earthen Vessel 't will shine more clear . 2 Cor. 4 , 6 , 7. Those that fear God they will not despise My Imbecillity , God by such confounds the Wife . 1 Cor. 1 , 26 , 27. God by Grace can make a Fisher-man as able As the great'st Doctor among the Rabble : Mat. 4.18.21 . Not many rich and noble , nor great men Are call'd , be humble , O my Soul , Lam. 3.19.20 . for when Thou seest the workings of Free-Grace , admire God's Grace that call'd thee , Gal. 1.15 . not thy desire ; Till God infus'd Grace into thy Soul and Heart , Gen. 19.18 . Like Lot in Sodom , from sin loth to depart ; Till God did open thy Eyes , and thee deliver From powers of Darkness , Acts 26.18 . praise God for ever . Thus my Friends , you may plainly see The Spirit is like the wind , John 3.18 . Grace is free ; Two things as principal my Lines impart , To know God in Christ , Joh. 17.3 . and thy own Heart : The latter by sin to know thy own misery , Then to know in Christ , Eph. 2.4 . God's rich mercy ; Of Free-Grace how thou mayst be Partaker , By forsaking sin and living to thy Maker : Titus 2.14 . The true knowledge of thy own Heart , Prov. 4.23 . This tract if read , will help thee in part . Here 's Gospel Truths , very brief and plain , Tells all Unconverted must be born again : Mat. 18.3 . Here 's the substance of Religion in one Chain , Thô brevity in every head was my aim : I had rather speak five words with understanding , Than ten thousand unknown words be banding . 1 Cor. 14.19 . I have not struck at Bark of the Tree , But at the Root and substance , you may see : Here is how to do Duty , Rev. 3.17.18 . Luke 17.10 . and herein , To rest in Duty done , a dangerous sin : There are but two ways , mind them well , Sin , and duties rested in , lead to Hell : Full of extreams are many in our days , To destroy Souls , 2 Cor. 2.11 . Satan hath many ways . Some do duty out of thoughts of Merit ; Others do not their duty , such a base spirit Of Extreams doth abound in our Land , Few do their duty as Christ doth Command . John 15.14 . Luke 6.46 . Jer. 10.23 . Isa. 45.22 . Phil. 3.7 , 9. Joh. 1.12 . Rom. 14.23 . Some do duty , but love of merit affect ; Others their duty , Christ's Command neglect . To do duty don't delay , but rest on none For Salvation , but on Jesus Christ alone : Don't rest on outward performances done , Like most , but by Faith on Christ the Son. Outside Worship , though splendid it look , Is prophaneness to God , though in a Bishops book : 1 Tim. 6 , 4.5 . Jer. 7.4.10 . Luke 18.10 . Josh. 23.7 , 8. 2 Tim. 3.5 . Tit. 1.16 . Isa. 1.14 , 15. Many are taken with Forms in Notion , Not considering what a Curse is blind Devotion ; Pharisees for Temple-praying , my Lines impart , For bowing with Knee , but where 's the Heart ? Many cry , the Temple of God , yet so evil Themselves by sin the Temple of the Devil : Strict for New-moons , Ceremonies in notion , When God loaths Men , and their Devotion . True Holiness is regulated in Age or Youth ; Rev. 22.18.19 . None ought to add , or diminish from Truth : Concerning Worship at large my lines impart , 2 Tim. 2.7 . If read them with a believing Heart . Little of true Worship is in the World then , Mat. 15.9 . How God is worshipped by most of Men ! Read and consider how my lines cry Against Mass , Will-worship , and Popery ; Col. 2.18.23 . True Worship to God been long withstood ; Rev. 12.15 . Satan cast after the Woman a Water-flood ; He corrupts Mens Understanding the Word , Satan hath many delusions , Scriptures Record : 2 Cor. 11.14 . The bottomless Pits smoke darkened the Air , Rev. 9.2 . and 8.5 . To obscure the Saints way , then take care : There are Lightnings and Voices God hath , In midst of darkness to direct their Path. Some glimering Light , is in this Book ; 1 Sam 17.40.45 . verses . Like little David's Stones which he took , And did not fear Goliah's great Sword : What 's in this Book , is according to the Word . Rom. 12.3 . Read , don't fear , for here 's no Treason , But words of truth , soberness , and Reason . Thô some few Tautologies , may seem plain , Yet to the Reader I hope not in vain : Mark 14.39 . Then don't fear to read , for my lines tell , When Moses hand 's down , of praying well , Exo. 17.11.12 . Amalek did prevail against Israel , How little of praying amongst many dwell : Little of praying in Faith in the Nation , For all God's wonderful dispensation . Lord , Isa. 26.10 , 11. when is lifted up thy powerful hand , Men will not see , nor yet understand . None rise against Evil-doers , Psal. 94.16 . and cry , Or stand against workers of Iniquity ; Will not understand in sin grown worse , Foundations of the Earth out of Course . & 82.5 . Most in their lives are now so odd , Lovers of pleasure more than of God. 2 Tim. 3.4 . How many in England to this hour , Verse 5. Have a Form of Godliness without the Power : Never was there than now more sinning , Never less remorse since the beginning : For sin in all our English Nation , How little Repentance by Reformation : Rev. 22.12 . Tho Christ is coming by 's Dispensation , Yet for 's Coming , never less Preparation . The greatest Wisdom of most in our days , Consists in being wise in foolish ways . Jer. 4.22 . To deceive others , many such foolish Elves , But in the end will deceive themselves : Rom. 6.21 . Many are wise in our English Nation , To deceive others in their Generation , And so deceive themselves of Salvation , Without Repentance and Reformation : Many will be found foolish Virgins , saith Scripture , Mat. 25.8 . to the 13 vers. without the Oyl of saving Faith In their Lamps , who in their Generation Thought they had enough in their Station , Cry Lord , Lord , yet must to desolation : Thus mayst see in this Book very plain ; Therefore from sin and false security refrain , Before you fall in everlasting pain ; God will not be deceiv'd , Gal. 6.7 , 8. I say again : Whatsoever Man soweth , that shall he reap ; Awake then from a presumptuous sleep : Tho I may seem Reader , to thee a Fool , Yet know , I have been at Christs School : By Free-Grace , Joh. 9.6 . Gospel truths I display , My Eyes being touched with Spittle and Clay . What I have written , not in my thought This way before , but God it me brought : Gen. 27.17.20 . vers . May it be to some Soul a savoury meat , For Conversion , I the Lord intreat . Consider Reader , for my lines mount To tell thee for Reading must give an Account : Take heed of sin , 't is a mad delusion , And puts the World in great Confusion ; Whilst wicked Mens heads plot against the Lord , And his little Flock , wicked Men accord ; Luke 12.32 . Their foul suggestions create ways so rude , That Homo est homini Deus , we can't conclude , That Man is to Man a God , Psal. 86.10 . this is to delude Our selves , unless believe so sinful odds , That there 's a good , and bad , so two Gods. 1 Cor. 8.4 , 6. Est homo homini Daemon , rightly understood ; Is Man to Man a Devil ? No , not so good . Satans Kingdom against it self is not divided , Saith our Saviour in Scripture , 't is decided : Mat. 12.24 . Mat. 3.24 . What 's Man then ? Est homo homoni Lupus : Is Man unto Man a Wolf ? nay much worse . Wolves prey not on Wolves , tho have Power ; The Savage Beasts don't one another devour , As Men do one another in this Hour . Gal. 5.15 . What 's Man then ? Homo est homini homo , a man Is to Man , a Man , and what Creature then Doth more mischief to one another in 's Station , Then Men do to one another in their Generation ? Psal. 73.23 . Mind of late , that dreadful Dispensation , What hanging and quartering in the Nation ! Burning , boiling , and many's desolation , Betraying one another by false Accusation ! The Fire less cruel to , as Scriptures unfold , Dan. 3.27 . Shadrach , Meshech , Abednego , yea Lions bold From hurting Daniel , they did all hold . & 6.22 . Wild Beasts unto Man have been more kind , Than one Man to another man , to cruelty inclin'd : Their cruelty can't be yet out of your Mind , Prov. 12.10 . And more of Mans Cruelty is yet behind . Yet the Earth more pitied Abel , as understood , In opening her mouth to receive his Blood , Then was Cain , who slew Abel his Brother ; Many in our days ruin'd one another : 1 John 3.12 . Though the wicked shall substract and cry , From the number of the days of the godly ; Yet 't is but to increase their own misery . Tho the Righteous suffer much Trouble and Woe , Luke 10.30 . to 35. verse . In his way to Jerusalem from sinful Jericho , Fall among Thieves , they wound him sad ; Yet the good Samaritan , makes Believers glad , By pouring in Wine , Grace in their Heart ; Hope in Christ makes us from sin depart . 1 Joh. 3.3 . Not like many who live as in the Land of Nod , Tit. 1.16 , Meer Atheists in practice , their lives so odd , Profess there is , yet in actions deny God. Read and practice , for I will not flatter , In this Book is but little idle matter : All care is for the Body , Mat. 6.25 . by every one ; But to care for the Soul , that 's let alone . How will it go with my Soul for ever ? Acts 16.30 . Few make such a Question , Jer. 8.6 . but still persever In false hope , till Death , then will quiver , When God the Soul shall from him sever , Mat. 8.2 . From enjoying his presence , and that for ever . Thus I have given , Mat. 13.27 . Reader , in love a fore-taste Of what 's contain'd in this Book , if hast Any love to thy Soul , read it , and mind What readst , and to Godliness be inclin'd . If Children , Rom. 8.17 . then Heirs , 't is only this , By holiness the Lord knows who are his : This is the Foundation that standeth sure ; 2 Tim. 2.19 . None shall see God , if not in Heart pure . Where Christ is Justification , 1 Cor. 1.30 . Heb. 12.14 . he is Sanctification : Without Holiness there is no Salvation ; This may seem in this Book more clear , Which from Scripture doth plain appear . Read it over , 1 Pet. 1.12 . and consider it well , Here 's no incouragement in the way to Hell. Here 's no Poor Robin's Jests , nor Aesop's Fables , But shews Duty to God and Man in both Tables : Tit. 3.9 . Here 's for Saints and Sinners , my lines glance To both , my aim is their Souls advance ; Isa. 3.10 , 11. Here 's that in Love will touch thy Heart , If from sins ways thou do but depart : Observe , and consider them , may find Things of Soul-consequence , if them mind . Read , don't delay , 2 Tim. 2.14 . without a partial Eye Consider , and observe well , as you pass by ; Though they may seem to you as dry bones , Ezek. 37.4 , 5. Yet cost many serious thoughts and groans ; Here 's no prophane and vain bablings , for they Increase unto more Ungodliness , Hell's way ; Col. 2.8 . 1 Tim. 6.4 , 5. 2 Tim. 2.22 , 23. Here 's no Phylosophy and vain deceit , That 's to prefer the Dish before the Meat ; Doth not lead to Christ , but Tradition of Men , I have not perswaded , I say once agen , To be of this or that Opinion ; Oh then Read the Book with seriousness , 1 Cor. 14.19 . and sollum May find so much as in a greater Vollum : Though they don't smell of a Doctor as you run , Don't despise them , is this the Carpenter's Son ? Mar. 6.3 . When Saturn's under a Cloud , in a dark night Lesser Stars sometimes unto us give light . Don't despise the day of small things true , Zech. 4.9 , 10. Which in love to Souls is laid before you . To know how 't is with thy Soul don ▪ t scorn , Had not God hedg'd in my way with thorn , Lam. 3.7 . This Book into the World had never been born . Which makes God's Love to me the greater , In bringing such meat out of the Eater : Judg. 14.14 . Jer. 9.2 , to the 6th , Verse : Judg. 18.7 . Though as to method they are ruleless Rhimes , Yet they declare the sins of the times . Then look more at meat than the dress , I aim at matter , I am no Poet I confess ; As you may see by what is here done , I am no Poet , no nor yet no Poet's Son : Though no Poet , yet would do some action To warn us all , in these times of distraction , That are so overgone with sins security , Isa. 57.3 , 4 , 5. Men will not Repent 'till they come to dye . Observe my lines well , what they impart , Thô now in print , Deut. 4.39 . print them in thy heart . If I am a stranger to thee , yet them advance In heart , & 11.18 , 19. for thy good , my Name 's Husnance : And that you may not put me to blame , I have several times inserted my Name In this Book , not in respect of any Fame , But when the matter required the same . Give God the glory if by it profit find , Psa. 115.1 . And in your Prayers have me in mind . Pray for me , Jam. 5.16 . my request doth move , Who am weak in Faith and cold in Love. Rom. 14.1 . I 'd rather be at Cannons mouth of wicked , then Against the Righteous , Psal. 84.10 . when they say Amen . Thus Reader , I keep to Scripture , for the matter 'T is plain , yet Truth , else not write a letter . They being Scripture Truth , and plainly laid , Observe , 2 Tim. 2.7 . and consider well what 's said : Though it be imperfect shew thy self a Lover , Love a multitude of imperfections will cover . 1 Pet. 4.8 .
A Word more to move the Reader unto Love. One Word more , Reader . THe summe and substance of Gospel Grace Shews how sin in Man God's Image did deface : Gen. 1.26 . So fell from that state he was Created , & 3.6 , 17. Rom. 5.12 . Brought on 's self , and all Mankind so stated , Loss of God's Favour , incurr'd Curse of the Law , Liable to severity of God's Wrath here below : By sin in transgressing God's Command , Forfeited all Priviledges in Eden's Garden-land : Gen. 3.23 , 24. Was cast out of God's Presence , which is a Hell , Where God ▪ Mat. 8.12 . by 's Grace and Spirit don't dwell , Hells darkness , Eph. 4.18 . Mat. 17.5 . darkness in all : Natural Man Having plung'd himself in this state , none can Or could satisfie Gods Justice , but only Christ , The Lamb slain from the beginning , Rev. 13.8 . he 's Priest ; To dye , to reconcile God and Man , Justice cried For satisfaction , none could , but Christ that died : Heb. 2 , 17. This also the Gospel declares , which mayst see In this Book , without Christ , can 't happy be : Christ for Sinners salvation , God did Seal ; John 6.27 . Mistake not , 't is not for all Trees to heal The Waters of Marah , as Scripture reveal . Nor all Meal , to heal the deadly Pottage ; 'T is not every hope , 2 Kings 4.41 . of presumptuous Dotage Will attain Salvation , as Scriptures unfold ; Whilst Men in sin , are presumptuous bold , Job 8.13 . They have no ground on Christ to hold . For Glory without holiness , in their Generation , Heb. 12.14 Wicked Men presume in their Station : But they shall fail in their expectation ; The Hypocrites hope , is cut from Glorification : Job 27.8 . Only those , are they , who receive Consolation , Who have the God of Jacob for Salvation : Psal. 146.5 . And is begun , here in our Regeneration , And made effectual by the Spirits Operation . Col. 2.12 . See this more clear , as you pass by , Read , consider every head , as they ly : Divided into parts , the better for Memory ; 2 Pet. 3.2 , 3. Read the Book over then don't let it ly , But consult the Scriptures , and them apply , Which I have plac'd so near the matter , Else in critical time would not write a Letter . Isa. 59.15 . Mind Scripture well , which I have multiplied , John 5.39 . Isa. 8.20 . Which prove the matter can't be denyed , Without denying Scripture , the Rule of Faith , Such there are , I am for what Scripture saith . 2 Tim. 3.16 . John 4.20 . Some Custom Tradition , of old Fathers cry , So the Rule , the Scripture , they pass by : Others cry , the Light within , so they pass The Scripture , as bad's those hold Mass . Rom. 15.4 . Gal. 1.7 , 8. Conscience inlightned , light within hearken to , As a ruled Rule , by Scripture rule do . 'T is a Spirit of delusion in Age or Youth Not to receive Scripture in love as Truth . 2 Thes 2.10.11 Men love darkness , when deeds are evil , Hate Scripture light , Joh. 3.9 . is from the Devil : Satan knows the tendency of Gospel Grace , Is his Kingdom of Darkness to deface . 2 Thes. 2.4 , 7. Therefore , Satan and Anti-Christ , with 's hounds , Jesuits , Rev. 12.9 . Fryers , Monks , his Kingdom abounds ; Do all they can to keep Gospel-light down ; So blind lead the blind into Satans pound : Mat. 15.14 . Scripture worship they oppose , and would expell Gospel-light , Rev 14.9 , 10. so all might follow the Beast to Hell : Woful experience of their Cruelty against those Stand for the Gospel Interest they still oppose . & 12.17 . 'T will not be long , their Kingdom shall down , Pope no more shall wear the Triple Crown : & 18. .8 21. Christ will come , before him they shall fall , And in his Wrath , Luke 19.27 . will destroy them all . Lord , 2 Thes. 1.8 , 9. hasten the fulfilling of thy Word , That thy people may praise thee with one accord , Zech. 14.9 . Let 's hear of Babylons fall in our days , Rev. 18.2 . & 12 , 10 , 11. So may live for ever unto thy praise . Then love the Scriptures , and them prize ; Are mercies to us , Psal. 119.97 . though some them despise : David said , vers. 103. I love thy Law , not one word waste , Thy precepts sweeter than honey to my taste : How shall Man cleanse his way ? verse 9. not by Sword , But by observing what 's written in the Word : Thy Word is a Lamp , a Light in my way ; Had not been for thy Word , 105. verse . I 'd gone astray . Love Scripture by the Spirits Operation , Are able to make us wise unto Salvation : 2 Tim. 3.15 . Where 's the Man , Phil. 1.27 . that lives in Conversation , According to a Scripture Demonstration ? Psal. 138.2 . God exalted his Word above his Name , For us , not to live according , is a shame : Live the Scripture , in love let them dwell Plenteously in us , Col. 3.16 . they dehort from Hell : Read this Book , in love do you accord ; Live according to the revealed Word . John 13.17 . Consult this Book , Rom. 12.9 . and you may find A word or two of love in the latter end , To discover fained from real , as we intend ; The love of Man doth always ebb and flow , John 13.1 . But Christ's love is for ever , as Believers know . Dangerous to be an Hypocrite , plainly laid ; Mat. 6.24 . Can 't serve God and Mammon , is also said . Here 's general things , I observing little order , But abruptly in placing them , yet on the border : If you please fee from whence they flow ; Search Scriptures , the Testimony , and the Law ; Isa. 8.20 . If not according to that , cast them by ; Joh. 5.29 . But first read them without a partial Eye , If art carnal , it will not please thy Pallad , Rom. 8.7 . Here are no Jiggs , as in a Poets Ballad : Not to preface any farther don 't look , Prov. 9.9 . Proceed , read , and well consider this Book : They are hints , Hos. 14.9 . from my thoughts did rise , A word or two is enough unto the Wise . 1 Cor. 10.15 . Happy are all English Hearts , says my Rhimes , Mat 24.30 . 42 vers . That discerns the signs of the present Times . Jehovah with his blessing , these lines pursue , By 's Spirit 's Operation , may Hearts renew , Is the Effects of this Book , I pray for you , Consider , Reader , well , what my lines tell ; Gal. 6.16 . Grace be to you , and to all Gods Israel . Exod 4.10 . Lord , I am a Child , not Eloquent , I am undone , Isa. 6.5 . Send , Lord , let some other this Errand run : Go forth my lines into our English Nation , Jer. 1.6 , to the 9. verse . See what good can'st do in this Generation : Who like a Man in a Swound , almost dead , To recover life , must rub face and head : Tho some Standers by , they may smile on 't , Count it prudence in evil time to be silent . Amos 5.13 . Yet do what God Commands , without delays , Till of the Earth , Jerusalem be the praise . Isa. 62.7 . & 58.1 . Cry aloud , spare not , tell the wicked they Must be Converted out of Hells way , Mat. 18.3 . If they will be saved , Heb. 3.13 . that without delay Repent , and believe , whilst 't is call'd to day . Make sure their Interest in Christ , Act. 4.12 . and pray , For to Salvation , John 3.3 . Christ is the only way . Tell all Unconverted , without Regeneration , They have no ground to hope for Salvation : Heb. 12.14 . Daub no untemper'd Morter , Ezek. 22.28 . & 13.10 , 18. blow the Bellows Of Truth , Hos. 10.12 . rouse secure from soft Pillows Of Presumption , false hope , before 't is too late : At death enters an eternal everlasting State. All the World 's great Men , without exemption , Nor the World's riches , Job 36.18 , 19. can procure Redemption . Cast off false hope , repent , and sin forsake , For Salvation , Rom. 13.11 . or Damnation lyeth at stake : Spur them with Motives , from false security ; Tell them in the burning Lake , Rev. 20.15 . 't is sad to lye : If any say , art Legal , that thou dost deny ? Tell them 't is Evangelical , Psal. 71 16. what dost descry : For Eree-Grace in England hath been applyed Where it ought not , whiles they in sin abide . Tell the fearful , Rev. 21.8 . and unbelieving , that they Are in the very front of Tophets way . If any question thy call in thy Station , Answer , Conscience , and Gods Dispensation : Tell them , it was not to gain Applause : But say with David , 1 Sam. 17.29 . is there not a Cause ? Cry , 1 Kings 18.21 . if God be God , worship him in Faith , Not superstitiously , Idol Baal , Scripture saith . Declare thy sincerity , Esth. 4.16 . false fear don't cherish ; Declare Gods Truth , if perish , thou perish . Fear not Wickedness , Isa 41.10.13 . as the Light doth shine , For my Seconds , my life shall go with thine . Tell thy message , 1 Cor. 3 , 5.7 . if they will it follow , Thou mayst do good , though not from Apollo . Discharge Conscience , do good in thy Station , Tho the Author be Exil'd from 's Habitation , Rev. 1.9 . From 's Family kept , by the late dispensation , Yet strives for Unconverted's renovation . Go forth in love , Gal. 5.13 . & 6 10. loves way to us discover ; See , what Souls for Christ , canst recover . Go forth , in love to all ; loves way take , If hast abuse , Mat. 5.44 . pray for them , for Christs sake . Go forth , fear not , Wolves may be kind , Knowst not , Christ may change their mind ; Gen. 33.4 . Since art call'd to go , take Loves way , Prov. 16.7 . & 15.3 . Thy Captain looks how thou canst play . Now darkness is like to overspread the Land , Psal. 119.105 . Take God's Word as a Lamp in thy hand : Make a good guard , take thy Back-sword , The whole Armour of God in his Word ; Eph. 6.11 , to the 17th . Ver. Stand , having thy loyns girt with truth , Fear not in love to face Age or Youth . Though some may hate and say thee nay , John 15.18 . Yet can't hurt thee , if hast fair play : If wrong , master of the play will decide The matter , and Justice to every one divide . Rom. 2.6 . With Patience run thy race 'till try'd , Heb. 12.1 . 'Till that time Jehovah will provide ; Don't despond , Free-grace will be apply'd , Mat. 25.24 . Salvation is on his right-hand side . Psal. 18.46 . Thô no great Man for Patron by Dedication , Yet fear not , thy God is God of Salvation . Then Pray before thou go , Exo. 33.13 , 15. for God's Presence To go with thee before thou venter hence . Jehovah , bless thy way to great or small , To bring some in the way of Life eternall : Mat. 25.46 . Lord , make it effectual , let this Book free Many from Satan's Bondage to live to thee ! Acts 26.18 . All glory , Lord , unto thee , to all Eternitie . Jer. 13.16 .
THE INTRODUCTION , AND PRODUCTION . I Falling lately under that Cloud of Providence , Job 30.26 . Did draw this conclusion from hence , I must Dye ; Job 18.14 . my thoughts being full of horror , Knowing Death in 'ts self to be King of Terror . Being in my thoughts mounted on the Stage , Jam. 1.3 . Where I did count must dye by the rage Of wicked and ungodly Men , Job 5.15 . no doubt Who declare their sin as Sodom , Job 16.10 . belch out Swearing , Isa. 3.9 . Damning , and such Blasphemies , As if Hell to them will be a Paradise : Well , Mat. 23.32 , 33. they call and ball for a Dray or Sled , On which I must be drawn or ride , 1 Cor. 10.13 . Before would my Soul and Body divide . But the while a Halter was their scope , Heb. 4.15 . That I should be hang'd with , or a Rope . These things , Friends , being rightly understood , Are not pleasing unto flesh and blood . Heb. 12.4 . My thoughts thus musing , Mat. 26.38 . and in a hurry , I heard a Voice , Why art sad and sorry ? Where 's thy Faith which once hadst in me ? 1 Pet. 2.22 . Is not my Grace sufficient to support thee ? Isa. 44.8 . Did I not hang on the Cursed Tree ; 2 Cor. 12.9 : Yet free from sin , Gal. 3.18 . yet made a Curse for thee ? Why did I take Man's Nature , Heb. 2.16.18 . was Tempted , But to succour those are ? wouldst be exempted ? Hast thou not known and read my Word ? Mar. 10.24 . Must the Servant be above his Lord ? Joh. 15.20 . Where 's dependance on Word of my Patience ? Rev. 3.10 . Hold that , Mat. 14.31 . fear not in hour of temptation . Stir up thy Faith , thy despondency I hate , Rom. 7.25 . See how Death and thou wilt expostulate . Rom. 8.34 . Death thy gastly face I do not fear ; Isa. 25.8 , 9. Nor do I dread thy dreadful Spear ! Thou art overcome , and conquer'd unto me , 2 Tim. 1.10 . By Christ my Captain , Heb. 2.10 . he hath set me free From thy Sting , which is Sin , Hos. 13.9 , 14. so that I Through Christs Blood , am not afraid to dye . Rev. 1.5 . That peace-making blood , my only Reconciler , 2 Cor. 5.18 . Made an Atonement for me , a Sinner none viler : 1 John 2.5 . He 's Propitiation for my sins , Mar. 9.23 . on Christ alone Do poor I depend for my Salvation . Heb. 7.25 . He is my Saviour , and calls , Stephen , Stephen , Believe in me ; thy sins are forgiven . Therefore Death , prethee Death , come near ! Job 14.14 . Do as art commanded , let fall thy Spear ! Heb. 6.19 . Do thy Office , since I thee so entertain , For I know when dead , shall live again , To praise my God , and my Redeemer dear , Job 19.25 . Which now bids me not thee to fear . Thou his Usher , Isa. 44.22 . Christ did thee send To fetch me , 1 Cor. 15.56 , 57. Verses . that sin may have an end . Happy then , my Soul do thou adore Free-Grace , that thou shalt sin no more . Eph. 2.8 . Sing , O my Soul , let thy Eccho rise , With praise to God , who is above the Skies . Rev. 7 , 15.16 . Come on bold Death , thy Spear carry steady , Strike when thou wilt , I am ready ! By this I conclude 't is nothing to dy , Rev. 22.20 . When God's Spirit comforts , and stands by . John 15.26 .
SECT. II. BY this time the whole Rabble rout , John 19.6 . Begin to stare and look about . How long shall we stand wait all day , Mat. 27.13 , 14. 23. vers . Hang the Rebel Rogue out of the way ! Another comes , cryes as he did run , O Rogue ! art not sorry for what hast done ? For answer I was provided , had intent To express it , but this I wave at present . A third comes , as if he were a Reherser , Calls , Thou Rebel , wilt have a Confessor ? In my thoughts told him , 't was not my desire , I hate Bald-pate Crown of Monk or Fryer . Said some , what this Fellow , talks so smart , Why hearken ye to him , Acts 22.22 . drive the Cart : But Sirs , if you please to give liberty , I have a few words to speak before I dye . Protestant Religion I own , 1 Pet. 3.15 . and of it vant ; By what follows , 1 Cor. 16.13 . Know , I am a Protestant , In defence of it brought to this pass , Yet whilst life , 1 Cor. 10.14 . I will disown the Mass . Purgatory , Popish pardons abominate , Praying to Angels , Jer. 50.38 . worshipping Images I hate . Popish Pennance , contrary to Gods Word , As I am able , I 'le use my spiritual Sword : If I can't throw down that Bashan Bull , I will to my utmost strength give a pull . 2 Cor. 10.4 , From the damning Doctrines they have , I 'le pass , And first draw my bow against the Mass : Rom. 14.23 . My first Arrow flies at Transubstantiation : Hoc est Corpus meum , Mat. 26.26 . their words of Con●ecration . After these words , the Host , the Water , they say , Is turn'd into Christs Body without delay . This is an Error clear against Philosophy , Mat. 16.6 . As well as Reason , Scripture , and Divinity : Against Philosophy , Heb. 7.26 , 27. if's Body be in Heaven , It can't be in bread , this is worse leaven Than of the Pharisees , leaveneth the whole lump , Christs Body from Heaven into bread Jump , Luke 12.1 . Is ridiculous to Reason , and Scripture clear , Which by Arguments may be made appear . If Christs Body be in Heaven , as is plain In Scripture , Act. 3.21 . whom the heavens contain Till restitution of all things , by this I make Good , that Christ is not in the wafer Cake . Scripture tells us of no such leaven , But Christ is ascended into Heaven . Mark 16.19 . To remain at the right hand of God , Not conjur'd down by a Mass-Priests Nod. Luke 22.19 . 'T is call'd Bread and Wine , in Commemoration Of Christs Death , and Paul in his Station Calls it bread several times after Consecration , 1 Cor. 11.26 , 28 Can't be a real Body by Mass Conjuration : 'T is call'd breaking Bread , in vain If after Thanksgiving no Bread remain : Mar. 14.22 . If Christs Body to bread could be involv'd , Then Paul needed not desire to be dissolv'd , Phil. 1.23 . And to be with Christ , when Paul he Might every day with Christ at Altar be . But Paul tho he had God's Spirit , yet alas He practic'd nothing of this wicked Mass : No , no such wicked Mass in his days , This made since by Popes several ways . With Additions several Popes did move , Jer. 44.4 , 5. Which I could , if need , resist and prove : And wicked too , in their lives so odd , Both Popes and Mass abominable to God. For Henry the 6th Emperour , Tit. 1.16 . eating the Host Was poysoned , yet of Mass they will boast . Also one of the Popes poyson'd in the Challice ; O brave Mass , what a poyson'd God of Malice ! 1 Pet. 3.4 . Here 's the real presence in the whole , If poysons Bodies , poysons more the Soul : Yet call it Bread , came down from Heaven , 'T is a great untruth , and very bad leaven . No Friends , I can tell you its pedigree , Forty four of Isaiah , 15.17 . Verse will describe it t'e . Isa. 44.15 , 17. To make 's believe real presence , Popes strive , That Christs Body is in the Wafer alive : Yet the Wafer still a dead thing 't is plain , Can't move , but as the Priest doth fain . For Christs Body , consider as we go , Is a living Substance , and must be so ; Rom. 6.9 . Eternally being raised from the dead , saith Scripture , which is the only Rule of Faith : Christ dyes no more , being rais'd from the Dead , Rev. 1.18 . But lives for evermore the Churches Head. Waser can't be Christs Body by a Priests Nod , Luke 20.36 . Being a dead substance , 1 Pet. 3.22 . Christ the living God : Angels , Mat. 28.18 . Authorities , all Powers are under , Made subject unto Christ ; then I wonder How a Mass-Priest came by such Power , 1 Cor. 1.24 . To command Christ into a Wafer any hour : No , don 't so believe , 't is sinful evil , Power Mass-Priests have , is only from the Devil : Tho Popes did this wicked Mass devise , John 8.44 . Yet originally from the Father of Lies : This power can't command Christ , for they Fear and tremble , Jam. 2.19 . and do Christ obey : So then , their power is a delusion great , That Christ is in the Wafer a meer Cheat : 2 Thes. 2.11 . If the real presence were true , what groans Christ endures to eat his body and bones ! Consider Friends , good Counsel don't refuse ; Those Mass-mongers are worse than Jews : Luke 23.23 . They once crucified Christ in the Flesh ; But those Mass-Priests crucifie Him afresh : If bread could be substantiated by such Noddies As real , then so many Wafers so many bodies . Then Christs Body is divided into many parts ; Consider this , 1 Cor. 1.13 you that have enlightned Hearts : What saith the Scripture , Is Christ divided ? No , he is not , by Scripture 't is plain decided : One Body , Eph. 4.4 , 5. one Spirit , one Hope , one Lord , One Faith , one Baptism , as saith the Word : If every Wafer , consecrated by a Mass-Noddy , Be metamophis'd substantial Christs Body , Then so many Wafers , by Papist Debators , So many Christs , yea Christs Mediators ; Which is against Scriptures standing Rod , 1 Cor. 8.6 . Which say to us , there is but one God ; And one onely Jesus Christ our Lord , One God , and Mediator , saith the Word : Between God and Man , 1 Tim. 2 5. the Man Christ Jesus ; Therefore , let Mens inventions not please us . Christ took bread , Luke 22.19 . gave thanks , brake it , Said , This is my Body , living when spake it : Signifies Christs Body , do it in remembrance of me ; 1 Cor. 11.24.25 Christ living did not eat his Body you see . Should bread incorporate become Christs Body , Psal. 94.8 . Christ in Heaven , he believes this , is a Noddy : Rom. 1.22 , 23. If bread's turn'd to Christs Body , then when eat The Wafer , they eat Christ , O horrid cheat ! 1 Cor. 2.14 . The wicked don't receive Christ , none of them Understand , things spiritual are foolishness to 'em . Dan. 12.10 .
SECT. III. MY first Arrow being gone thorow clear , Psal. 51.17 . I will draw a second to make good the rear : Hos. 6.6 . A second Error in Mass , by which I can't pass , Say , they daily offer up Christ in the Mass ! Mic. 6.8 . The Gospel allows Ministers , and Sacrifices too , But not superstitious Ceremonies to do : Mat. 12.7 . Sacrifice of prayer , praise , a Heart Contrite , Psa. 116.17 . Broken for sin , praying in Faith , Gods Delight : Heb. 13.10 . Not in your gross superstitious Idolatries , God will have mercy , obedience , not Sacrifice . 1 Sam. 15.22 . That there 's need offering Christ in the Mass , Heb. 9.26 . By way of sacrifice , is an error very gross In Scripture , 't is full of Blasphemies Against Christs priestly Offices , Heb. 10.10 . and implies An imperfection in Christs dying Sacrifice ; Contrary to Scriptures , which do us call , Remember Christs Offering his Body once for all In sacrifice , to perfect them are sanctifi'd , Here 's compleatness of Christs sufferings , Acts 4.12 . who dy'd To satisfie Gods Justice without delay , Which could not be by any other way . Mat. 3.17 . Christs one sacrifice without Exemption , Heb. 7.27 . Hath compleated for ever Mans Redemption : Search Scriptures , once , once , Heb. 9.28 . once for all Christ suffered for us , 1 Pet. 3.18 . whom God doth call An All-sufficient Sacrifice , Heb. 10.10 , ●● . I am well-pleased In my Son , hear him , ye that are diseased : Hear him , believe in him , as you pass , Take heed of this wicked Idolatrous Mass ! Mat. 17.5 . For to reiterate a thing once done , mind , For the attaining or accomplishing the end For which it 's begun , declares an imperfection ; By Mass Christs Sacrifice , Mat. 23.28.33 . vers . cast by rejection As imperfect , therefore they offer sacrifice , To perfect what Christ begun , O Blasphemies ! Making Christ himself a meer Cypher , His sacrifice not valued as Ashes of an Hifer : Mat. 3.17 . Yet in Christ alone God's well-pleased , Mat. 28.18 . and Hath committed all power into his hand : Yet see , 2 Cor. 6.14 . to the 18. vers. Ezek. 14.3 , 6. these Mass-Priests how they vant Of Mass , and render Christs Death insignificant : So the glory of Christs priestly Office vail'd , The Gospel Truth 's perverted , and conceal'd ; Here 's Mass-worship , John 5.21 . an Idol-god for a Saviour , As appears-by their Monkish lives behaviour ; Trampling under foot Christs precious blood , Heb. 10.29 . Glory of Christs priestly Office , long withstood The Patience of Christ , but 't is not long Christ will suffer them to usurp this wrong : Psa. 11.6 . How many Protestants lives , hath this stood , That the Wafer is not Christs body and blood . But the wicked shall do wickedly , Dan. 12.10 . and None of the wicked shall understand . The wicked shall wax worse and worse , Deceivers , 2 Tim. 3.13 . deceiving , and deceived is a Curse : 'T is just with God such should be deceiv'd , When Truth with them can't be believ'd . When truth comes into the World in sight , They love darkness still , John 3.19 . rather than light : Will not believe , their Conscience so deprav'd , Can't receive truth , 2 Thes. 2.10 . that they may be sav'd : They with malice Protestants inviron , Having their Conscience sear'd with a hot Iron : Their Consciences hardened , 1 Tim 4.2 . in sin bold , False wicked Doctrines they do unfold : And affirm those things for real truth , So falsely corrupt both Age and Youth . Which they know to be false , yet deluded By Satan , who on Adam and Eve intruded ; Gen. 3.4 . Because they did not believe the Truth , 'T is just with God on Age or Youth , To send them very strong delusions , To believe the Devils wicked infusions ; 2 Thes. 2. , 11 12. vers . That they should believe the Devils lyes , Because they delight in Blasphemies . God's righteous in condemning Age or Youth , Whose pleasure is in Unrighteousness , not in Truth : How they adore wickedness in their Station , And corrupt Scriptures by false Translation , And false glosses thereon , and among All , to serve God in an unknown Tongue : 1 Cor. 14.14 Denying Scriptures , by their command , To be read by the Laity at no hand ; This their diabolical way to advance Superstition , keeping People in ignorance . Yet God in all Ages preserv'd by his Grace Some that never wicked Mass did embrace ; 1 Kings 19.18 But still did oppose Popery to it's face , Yet by Popes cruelly suffer'd in their race : Popes being for Cruelty , Prov. 12.10 . wicked and base To Protestants , God change their Hearts by Grace ! I must tell you the Truth , I can't spare ye , Col. 2.18 . They worship Images , and Virgin Mary ; An express Badge of Antichrist they carry , 1 Tim. 4.3 . Against Scripture , prohibiting times to marry . Another Beast mark , which like a Cheat , Against Scripture , command to abstain meat ; Humane Tradition , Holy-days , Deut. 18.10 . 12. vers . which is a plain Mark of the Beast , yet how few refrain : Yet Scripture forbids them , saith Paul again , I am afraid of you , lest labour'd in vain . What 's tell of Scripture , that 's not in their Eye , Gal. 4.3 , 4. They plead Tradition , Custom , and Antiquity . Scriptures they lay aside , like a thing dead , Hold the Pope to be the Churches Head ! Col 1.18 . A brave Head he is , if you will him see , Thirteen of the Revelations will describe him to'e . Rev. 13.1 . Here 's that Monster that long hath bin In the World , and for money forgives sin , If you will believe him , but my lines cry , He is the Beast that speaks Blasphemy , And is guilty of that sin of Simony ; Col. 2.8 . He is the Great Beast of all Iniquity , This proud , insulting , domineering Priest , Enemy to godliness , and is Antichrist : Who forceth all abomination with 's Rod , Exalts himself above all that 's call'd God : 2 Thes. 2.4 , He is the Abomination that 's void of Grace , Rev. 13.16 . Still opposeth Christ , and his Image deface , Which is Holiness , Josh. 24.19.20 . verse . not a Picture so base . The Counsel which an ancient Author gave , Let every one with special care receive ; He that would holy live , 2 Cor. 6.14 . to the 18. vers . from Rome be packing , There 's all things else , but Holiness is lacking .
SECT. IV. BY Mass see , breaking bread is misapply'd , The Ordinance they also do divide , Wine to the Laity is by Mass-Priests deny'd ; Yet Christ , when his Ordinance set up , Christ took bread , Luke 22.19.20 . vers . and also the Cup : But the Wine from the Laity is put , Priest alone receives it into his Gut. Here 's your Mass-priest , he drinks Wine alone , But the poor Laity they have never none . Yet Christ did institute one as the other , 1 Cor. 11.24 , 25 But Christs Institution is as younger Brother , Cast out by Mass-priests , as you may see , What the Popes reckon Christ to be , Or Gospel Institution in the least degree . Many Crosses and Monkey-faces they make , Before their Idol god they will take . Yet no crosses us'd in the Apostles days , Nor Scripture pattern for such Idle plays . No Crosses were us'd by Christ his hand , Nor by any example or Scripture Command ; Of Crosses there is made no mention At the Institution , nor Scripture-intention , These Crosses then are the Pope's Invention . For Pagans did not use Crosses , in History see , In their Idolatrous Worship : Crosses must be By Pope Gregory the seventh in his station Made , who was much given to Conjuration : A meer Conjurer , here 's the Infallible Head Of Crossing the Challice , and also the Bread : Reader , observe , and consider what 's said . They never say Mass without Wax-tapers Or Candles , with many crossing Capers ; 'T is spiritual darkness , as doth appear , What need Candles when Sun shines clear ? How corrupt are Mass-priests ; understand , Are Crosses and Candles God's Command ? Paul glory'd in Christ's Cross in his Heart , Gal. 6.14 . Not use Crosses in Worship , that 's Papists Art. In Scripture no such Custom understand , 1 Cor. 11.16 . Isa. 1.12 . Who hath required this at their hand ? Must they not say our Master the Pope ? For no Command in Scripture scope For such Practices ; so Christ's Sovereignty deny , And with inventions of Men comply . Mat. 15.9 . 'T is great dishonour to Christ and Indignity , To use that in Worship is meer Idolatry Which Christ never instituted , is Popery : As tho Christ was not the only Law-giver , Being Wisdoms Fountain , God blessed for ever . Rom. 9.5 . Thus I have shot at the Mass , by his hand Who gives Grace those things to understand . No such Custom in Scripture , or Church of Christ , To the Testimony , or go where they list . If any Preach not according to Scripture bold , Isa. 8.20 . Let 'm be accursed that against Scripture hold : See what 's this Mass , can any thing be worse , Gal. 1.8 . To receve the Beast-mark , a dreadful Curse ? Rev. 13.16 . They that are filthy , will be so still , Wickedness doth now the Ephah fill . Rev. 22.11 . Away with your Mass , you god-eaters , Make a Cake a god , then eat him , Cheaters ; That after many Crosses all in an hour , Make a Waser a god , and presently him devour ; May be call'd belly-gods , Phil. 3.19 . for you advance Your wickedness , keeping People in Ignorance : Away then with your linsey-woolsey garments , Lev. 19.19 . God accepts you no more than Verments . So Christ calls you a generation of Vipers , Mat. 23.33 . Who think Worship consists in Organ-pipers . You are for Bowings , Crosses , hat and knee , Yet live in sin , sure bad Men are ye ; What will ye do , Tit. 1.13 , 14 , 16. verses . that think to please The Lord with such vain things as these ? Think all well , if your Pater-noster can Say over , call your Neighbour heretick-man ; If not joyn with you in your Mass Of Idolatry , Acts 21.28 . then for a Heretick must pass , With flouts and scoffs , if once any fly From superstitious Ceremonies of Popery . To whom do you your Cruelties lay ? Who are term'd Hereticks so much as they That fear God most ? Acts 24.14 . Papists in sin persist , As if could please God with what they list . He that will not own the Mass , Act. 28.22 . must dye , And if Commanded by the Pope's Authority ; Commit Murder or cruel Massacry On Protestants , Psal. 74.20 . poor Children pass not by , Cruelly destroy all without Humanity . To Christs Kingly Office the Pope doth fly ; Under pretence of ruling for Christ , doth hate His Servants , every where them Excommunicate : Pretend have Peter's Key , Mat. 16.19 . if believe what they say , If not , Paul's Sword will make you obey . Without the Beast-mark none must buy or sell , Rev. 13.17 . That don't Conform to ways lead to Hell. They make show of Wisdom in their station , Of Will-worship as a shew of Humiliation . Col. 2.23 . So cunning is Satan , and deceitful Man's heart , Act. 5.3 . Doth think himself godly , Satan's art To deceive , when from sin they never depart . Rev. 12.9 .
SECT. V. FRom the Mass I will now a little advance , And write briefly of Christ's Ordinance , Or last Supper , which is abus'd by Ignorance . Luke 22.15 . To institute this Ordinance nothing did move Christ so to do , but his Grace and Love ; As a Memorial of his dying Passion free , Luke 22.19 . Do this in remembrance of me . Breaking Bread was an Ordinance , says my rhimes , Which Saints did use in Primitive times ; Act. 2.42 , 46. By Jesus Christ was first instituted , Though by many since it hath been polluted , Act. 20.7 . By Mens inventions , contrary to Christs Command , As by Mass , and otherways too in England . Breaking Bread hath a twofold signification , That we should remember in our station , Isa. 53.5 . Christ's Body broken for our Salvation : Thereby to consider all the benefits we Have received by Christ's sufferings free . Also to be mindful of our Communion One with another , Joh. 15.12 , 13. as Believers in Union With Jesus Christ , who is their head , Presented unto them in and by the Bread ; Which consists and made of many grains , Not like Mass , where no bread remains After Thanksgiving , as Mass-priest fains . A double signification hath the Wine likewise , Mar. 14.24 . Not like wicked Mass used in our days . But puts Believers in mind of Christ's Blood , Which he shed for their everlasting good . Also Christ's Death is very significant In ratifying unto us the New Covenant Or Testament , and all things therein contain'd , Ezek. 36.25 , to the 35. vers Saith Scripture , therefore Mass to be refrain'd . It signifies Believers Communion in station , Luke 22.20 . And fellowship with Christ their Salvation . 1 Cor. 1.9 . Likewise to remember in our generation , To be sincere to Christ under Temptation , Luk. 22.28 , 29 , 30. vers . Then shall reign with Christ in glorification . Therefore all they who use this Ordinance Should have no fellowship , 1 Cor. 6.2 . but should advance From Idolaters and superstitious evils , Who in the Scriptures are called Devils . 1 Cor. 10.21 . From unfruitful works of darkness move , If break Bread , Eph. 5.11 . let it be in real Love. Primitive Believers were of one mind And heart , Act. 4.32 . let all malice be declin'd . 'T is a dangerous thing to partake or accord Of this Ordinance unworthily , saith the Word , Are guilty of the Body and Blood of the Lord : They eat and drink their own Damnation , Not discerning Christ's Body in their station : 1 Cor. 11.27 , 28 , 29. vers . Want the eye of Faith , which doth advance The Soul to see the end of this Ordinance : So are damn'd for Unbelief and Hypocrisie , Which is the Cause of many , I fear and cry : Therefore try , by a heart real Examination , Whether fit for such Communication ; And not like the Priests of the Nation , Who admit Drunkards or any in their station , Whoremasters , Prophane Men in Conversation . Woe unto the Bishops and Priests of the land , When God shall say , Is this my Command ? Who hath required this at your hand ? Isa. 1.9 . How Prophane are Priests in the Nation , To all wicked men officiate Administration ; How corrupt with the Pope's pollution , Few of them keep to Christ's Institution ; But Administer unto all , none exempt , So bring the Ordinance into contempt . How carelesly and promiscuously admit , Rev. 2.2 . Before they are by Examination fit : Contrary to Scriptures , which you may see , If you please to search the Scriptures free . The Ordinance refresheth the soul of Faith , Rom. 14.23 . But to the wicked Damnation Scripture saith . According to Christ's Institution 't is good , Yet Bread and Wine are not Christ's blood : Nor is Christ in or under them , as Papist list , 'T is by Faith alone we receive Christ . Eph. 3.17 . Christ's Death by Believers is highly priz'd , Christ our Passover for us is sacrific'd : 1 Cor. 5.7 , 8. Hate Mass , that by wicked Men was devis'd . Purge the old leaven , sin , and keep the feast , Not with wicked Mass , as doth the Beast And her followers all , both age and youth ; Let us with unleavened Bread , sincere truth , Purge therefore the old leaven , be you new , That Christ by Faith may dwell in you . Christ as the only Mediator was crucify'd To reconcile us in him , Justice is fully satisfi'd : No need Mass , Christ the alone Propitiation , 1 Joh. 2.1 , 2. On Christ alone will I depend for Salvation : Col 1.14 . 'T is by his Blood my Soul is cleans'd , is eas'd , Because God said , In him I am well pleas'd . Mat. 17.5 .
SECT. VI. Concerning Purgatory . POpery once again I here call to mind , In opposition to Popery I have more behind . Papists hold a middle and infernal place , Where Souls suffer , without Money , a sad Case ! And 't is a cunning Artifice to get Money by , For if you are rich , and like to dye , Then to a Mass-priest your selves apply : He will Pray you out of Purgatory , If you have Faith to believe his story , But his Prayer never brings thee to glory . For consider what Scriptures unto us tell , Luke 16.23 . At Death the Souls of wicked go to Hell Immediately ; the rich Man , mind it well , In Hell lift up his eyes , he did not dwell In Purgatory , his Condition sad , for alas ! In those days were no Priests to say Mass . Though Satans subtilty in wickedness was great , Yet then to get Money had not this feat . His Sons , the Popes , did since this compleat , So Money get , and many Souls they cheat . See then , Mar. 11.22 . and understand these things plain , Their feigned Purgatory is only for gain ; For without Money there the Poor may lye , Not a Prayer for them , see their Charity , For want of Money they in Purgatory frye , But for their Comfort a Purgatory is none say I. 'T is true , there is in this life a Purgation ; That is , 1 Joh. 1.7 . Jesus Christ's blood , by renovation Must purge our Souls , by Regeneration . Christ's Blood must be apply'd by Faith's desire Whilst we live , Heb. 9.14 . & 11.6 . or never after by fire . When the wicked dye , no place of Purgation Do they go into , but Hells Damnation . Don't be deluded with Purgatory in station , Must be Converted if ever enjoy glorification . Mat. 18.3 . All Believers at Death , when they dye , Are carried into Heaven immediately ; By Christ's Mediation , that Pearl of great price , This day shalt be with me in Paradise . Luk. 23.43 . Purgatory you see then is Mens device , For 't is clear , Scriptures they don't tell Of a Purgatory , between Heaven and Hell. No Reader , don't deceive thy Soul , For a Purgatory there is none at all : Here 's a twofold Cheat , what can be worse ? To deceive thy Soul , and also thy Purse . Here 's another thing which doth harden Men in sin , Indulgences and Pope's Pardon : Which frees Men from sin in God's sight , This also a Cheat for Money , makes Purse light . Can Man forgive sin ? Luk. 7.49 . a blasphemous story ; Here 's a Cheat for Money , as is Purgatory . This is that brings grist to the Pope's Mill , 'T is diametrically opposite to Scripture still , Which tells us Truth , that there is none Can forgive sin but God in Christ alone . By Indulgences wickedly invented by the Pope , Men live in wickedness , yet have false hope : Live in all kind of sensuality , Hell's road , Gal. 5.19 , 20 , 21. vers . Swearing , Whoring , Drunken sins , are all-a-mode : Why ? because they believe a Mass-Priest Can pardon them , so live as they list . As if Mass , Holy Water , by a Priest's Conjuration Did purge sin , so live a wicked Conversation . What need I care how I live , if with a fee To a Mass-priest he can make me free . I have read of one Martyr , whom I honour In the Faith , being brought before bloody Bonner , Said , Sir , at first I was of your Faith , But now I believe what Scripture saith , Not a Priest , which did in sin me harden , Car'd not how I liv'd , because had a Pardon Of a Mass-priest for Money , Isa. 6.16 . but now I cry None can forgive sin but the holy Deity .
SECT. VII . Popish Pennance . HEre I will joyn Popish Satisfaction By Pennance , which is also a wicked detraction From Christ's Merits , if by Whipping , Fasting , we Satisfie God's Justice in our own Persons , see What Papists count Jesus Christ to be . Christ's Merits by Papists excommunicated , Yet Christ's alone Satisfaction in Scripture stated : By the travel of his Soul God is satisfy'd , Isa. 53.11 . Which by Popish Pennance is wickedly deny'd . Christ made an end of sin , Heb. 10.14 . by Faith apply'd By one Sacrifice perfected them are sanctify'd , For Believers obtain'd an eternal Redemption , Heb. 9.12 . Are Pardoned , Justified , without exemption . By Christ alone we have Favour with God , Sin made us Enemies , wicked , vile , and odd . Alas , Col. 1.21 . Confession of sin is not Satisfaction , Our best Duties are tainted with putrefaction Of sin , our Repentance , Confession , Humiliation , Are tainted with Hypocrisie and Dissimulation . 1 John 1.8 . Sin can't satisfie , for 't is clear in reason , No more than a Traytor if Confess his Treason . Our mourning for sin , Praying for Pardon And strength against sin , should not harden In sin , our striving for mortification , Are quite other things than Satisfaction . Whatever we offer to God for acceptation , Heb. 7.25 . 'T is through Christ's Intercession and Mediation . This is a sure Rule and Foundation-stone , That God's Justice is satisfy'd by Christ alone , For all Believers then like Christ there 's none . For Man's sin God's Justice would admit No other satisfaction , Mat. 17.5 . this Point don't forget . And this must be apply'd by Faith alone , Act. 4.12 . And this the Papist can't abide to own . They to the Virgin Mary themselves apply For Intercession , and on Saints also rely , As Mediators with Christ ; 1 Tim 2.5 . Oh Blasphemy ! As if Christ , blessed for ever , needed Coadjutors , Which is a Blasphemy my Soul abhorrs ; 'T is lifting up the Creature , and doth deface Christ's Merits , undervaluing God's Free-grace : For if Christs sufficient Sacrifice be deny'd , Col. 3.11 . To what end was Christ incarnate and dy'd . What greater Indignity , dishonour can be To Christ , than is given by Papists you see ? What 's worse than undermine the Foundation Of all Happiness ? Col. 1.19 . by Christ alone is Salvation , Not by Virgin Mary , nor Saints in station . They cast their Crowns at Christ , Rev. 4.10 . and fall Before his Feet , Christ being all in all .
SECT. VIII . Obj. SOme may move this Objection so bold , Why against Papists do you so hold ? Sol. Because receive their worship from old , Pagan Heathens , which I could unfold , From ancient Authors , and Scripture bold ; There was the Dragon worship at least , From which derives worship of the Beast : Rev. 13.2 , 3 ▪ 4. Verses . & 14 15. On which the generality of men doth run ; 'T is the grossest Idolatry under the Sun : Because fairest pretence of worshipping Jesus , So with Superstitions think to please us . So turn Christ into an Idol 't is plain , What else doth bowing to Images mean , Their Wafer-god , and other things as vain ? Crosses , Crucifixes , and Beads such Idle Toys , Fit to please Children and foolish Boys . Being ignorant of Christs Righteousness all one , Rom. 10.2 , 3. Men invent a righteousness of their own , Not living by Faith , into Hell are thrown . God is a Spirit , and requireth of Age or Youth , To worship him in Spirit and in Truth . Tho by what 's written , John 4.24 . Papists may be inrag'd Against me , yet my Soul is here ingag'd , 'T is a wicked Religion , for there is none Other way to Salvation , but by Christ alone . Acts 4.12 . Must be sav'd by Christ alone , if at all , None can be sav'd , whether great or small , But in and through Christ , who is all in all . Tho Christ don't save without Sanctification ; Luk. 17.12 . Yet Sanctification don't merit Salvation . I bear Papists no malice , I wish them well , Oh would they turn from the way of Hell ! Therefore let none mistake me herein , I hate not their Persons , but only their Sin. Christs Excellency I will endeavour to advance , Whiles I am in the World , Husnance . To do them good I would in love accord , My utmost strength in a spiritual way afford , If would dispute according to the Word . But that they deny with a stunning blow , Cry old Fathers , John 4.20 . Tradition , and then you know , Deny the Statute , to what end pleads Law ? They can't defend their Religion by the Word , Therefore , often use they Fire and Sword : If can't defend it by their magical Charms , Then they use Pauls Sword , force of Arms. When any false worship would introduce , 2 Pet. 3.16 , 17. They put by the Scriptures , by a sinful abuse . By false glosses on Scripture , in their Station , And by their corrupt and false Translation ; Eph. 4.18 , 19. verse . Then their wicked Doctrines to advance Is by keeping People in their ignorance . 'T is Will-worship clear , Col. 2.8 . in Scripture still , So may receive twenty worships if you will : Lay aside Scripture , what Rule for Faith , A meer Chaos , if follow what Tradition saith . Then what Jews , Turks , and Pagans devise , And what 's invented by the Father of lies : Therefore keep to Scripture in thy Station , They were given by Divine Inspiration : And Scriptures are by the Spirits Operation , 1 Tim. 3.15.16 . verses . Col. 2.12 . Able to make us wise unto Salvation . Papists have many Blasphemies , should follow 'em , More Fopperies , than would contain a Volume : But those I have written without dispute , Strike at Jesus Christ , the Foundation Root . Of all happiness therefore could not be mute To extenuate Christs Excellency as bad fruit : Yea diabolical wicked without dispute , Consider these hints , and thy self recruit , With Scripture light those Errors confute ; Don't see thy Saviour slighted , yet be mute . Own Christ here , Luk. 22.28 , 29. vers .. don't believe Papists Story , And fear not , Christ will own thee in Glory .
SECT. IX . Obj. BUt some may say , in all your scope , Can't you tell us the Rise of the Pope ? Sol. At first they were Bishops understand , Placed and advanced by the Emperours hand ; As Bishops are by the King of England , And supported in dignity by his hand ; And did live in very much Tranquility , Under the Emperours power and Eye , Until Pope Hildebrand , he did it deny , Who was a Sorcerer , and by his wicked pride , The Emperours power he did divide , Both Ecclesiastical and Civil power apply'd To the Pope , by whose Example and Ambition , Fill'd Europe with most wicked Superstition : Under pretence of Chastity , destroyed Marriage , 1 Tim 4.3 . So base and wicked in their Carriage . Under the Title of Liberty , Prov. 26.25 . did break peace With Emperors , so Popes did increase In wickedness , and abominable Idolatry , And so resisted the Emperors Authority : So at length they brought it to pass , By the Popes Command to say wicked Mass . And that a few Cardinals wickedly bent , Should chuse a pope without the consent Of the Emperour , contrary to Law , and The Emperours just right , and command : To advance Bishops , the right his own , This by Popes hath been long overthrown . Have extorted all into their own hands , That under the Popes are , or commands : And not content with that , have so prevail'd By usurpation , the Emperours have quail'd . All power to Pope himself being wicked affected , 2 Thes. 2.4 . For whereas no Pope might be elected Without the Emperour , that is now rejected By the Pope , and no Emperour to stand Without the popes consent and hand : Who take upon them so in their Station , No Emperour shall be in their Generation , Without the popes holy Confirmation ; Yea , at pleasure the pope by Excommunication Depose Kings , Psa. 73.6 . and Emperours by his pride , See on Frederick the First , who was spied To hold popes Stirrup on the wrong side , For which the pope could not him abide . Thus popes take on them imperial power Over Kings and Princes unto this Hour . For Henry the fourth , Emperour , did stand At pope Gregorys Gate , by his Command , Three days to beg pardon at popes hand ; The pope caus'd Henry second , King of England For some difference with a Bishop , understand , To go bare-foot , by the popes command , To Canterbury with his bleeding feet , That he might a Bishops Tomb there meet : Which for a King to do , was a wicked thing Of the Pope , also John once Englands King , The Pope caus'd to bow , and kneel down At the feet of the popes Legate's frown , And also to offer unto him his Crown ; And to kiss the Bishop of Canterburys Feet , Which for a King to do , is very unmeet , But England's King now hath more Wit . He is not Henry or John by Name , But the prudent Understanding King William , Will not suffer the Pope Supream to be , To Reign over him in such a degree : Prov. 29.4 . I hope power of the pope in his days Will be abrogated , the King being wise . Tho some Bishops were loth he should stand As King-supream , all Bishops to command , But now will know him King of England . I can't but pray for his Majesties success , Eccl. 8.2 , 4. Also his Royal Consort Jehovah bless . Make them King and Queen of high renown , To throw Will-worship and Popery down : But not to inlarge here , consider Popes pride , How over Kings and Emperours ride . See Popes and Bishops Ambition wicked and odd , Exalt themselves above all that 's call'd God. Hence it appears that Popes vain Tradition , 2 Thes. 2.4 , Brought in all their wicked Superstition : Superstition , by degrees brought Idolatry ; Idolatry increas'd Ignorance and Blasphemy : Ignorance embrac'd that delusions Story , And fain'd great lye of Purgatory : Luke 16.22 , 23. verses . Purgatory brought the Doctrine of praying For Souls departed , for Money playing . Praying for the Dead , this wicked Cheat , Did cause men to give Estates very great Unto the Church of Rome , who did aspire To Covetousness , to maintain Monk and Fryer : Then large revenues brought their Avarice , So prompt them to all Sin and Vice : Ambition brought their insulting pride Psal. 10.3 , 4. Over Emperours , and many Kings beside . Their pride sought for an Arm of Flesh , Man's power to support wickedness afresh : Power brought in Cruelty in possession , The Popes Cruelty brought Oppression : Oppression brought on cruel Persecution , Heb. 11.36.37 , 38. verses . Which brought many to their dissolution . In which many Saints have suffer'd at least Cruel oppression by power of the Beast . The Pope and 's adherents , which Scripture call A Star from Heaven , the Church , Rev. 9.1 to the 12 verse . did fall From the Faith , full of Wormwood and Gall. In respect of corrupt Doctrines in profession ; Rev. 8.10.11 . Gall , in respect of their cruel Oppression : Which hath been manifest in all Lands , Within jurisdiction of Popes commands . Scripture the Pope lays aside as dead , Popes commands and decretals are head Above Scripture , of Blasphemy Papist not afraid . You see , yea opposeth God himself , understand , Shalt not bow to Images , Exod. 20.5 , 5. is Gods Command : The Pope expungeth this Precept , and Setteth up Images in Churches by his hand Or Authority ; God saith shall not bow down To Idols , the Pope saith with his Crown , Worship these , or I on you will frown . Here 's the Popes command , and threatning Rod , As Antichrist blasphemously opposeth God. What thinkest Reader , who shall we obey , God or the Pope ? consider it in thy way : Instead of Purgatory , Hell is Popes pay , Therefore God obey in this thy day . Act. 5.29 . The Pope hath many Errors great and small , For some sins Papists hold to be venial ; But Scripture doth not at all say so , The least sin is a Transgression of Gods Law : Yea , the least sin which is much worse , Exposeth all Men to a dreadful Curse . Gal. 3.10 . But not to inlarge here , yet mind well , For little sins , without Repentance I tell , And Faith in Christ , God hath a great Hell Instead of Purgatory , with false hope don't swell . Therefore take heed , who can in 's fury dwell ? What 's to lye under Gods wrath , Psal. 90.11 . none can tell . Thus I have given you so brief's I can , The Popes Rise , and their Actions scan , Consider it , as art an honest Man . Now Reader , 2 Pet. 3.1 , 2. in love , to help thy Memory , To summ up all , I will my self apply : Consider it without a partial Eye , Understand what 's said , as passest by .
SECT. X. MAny hundred years the Man of Sin His Errors concealed , in the World bin : All his wickedness , which he hath done , Hath been admir'd by most as they run : And receiv'd all Errors as they concluded , By which most Men have been deluded . The Errors which Papists have broach'd plain , Are received for sound Doctrines , so vain Are Men in Superstitious forms and ways , To use them for true worship in our days : The Man of Sin doth stile himself Head Of the Church , and Christs Vicar ; t is said That Jesuits , Priests , Monks , Fryers are Christs Ministers , then of them take care : The Laws and Canons of those deem'd Before Scriptures , are by many esteem'd . The power of the Pope unto this hour Hath been executed as Christs power : The Roman Episcopal Sea , Court without , Hath , and is counted Christs Church no doubt . By many their foolish Pennance doth pass , For Repentance , also their abominable Mass Hath been received as the real presence , alas ! Many Protestants lives hath this stood , That the Wafer is not Christs body and blood : Their fained delusions , and wicked Story , For a Money-cheat , is their Purgatory : Their outward shew of wisdom inclin'd , As voluntary Religion , humbleness of Mind , Not sparing the body , makes them esteem'd Religious and holy , their Ceremonies deem'd As necessary ; their rich adorning Images , see Their Altars and Temples , how rich they be Set forth , their Wax-candles in degree , And gawdy Copes by their light may see : Their bowings , crossings , and Antick Tricks , With this , Faith not keep with Hereticks : By which Errors most of Age and Youth , Who are ignorant of spiritual Truth , Do look upon the Man of sin as Head Of the Church , so Christs Institutions dead With most , thus Satan doth cunningly work In the World , such baseness in men lurk . 2 Cor. 2.11 . Pope will tread on the Neck of Kings , Yet be call'd a Servant of Servants sings : He pretends to save Souls , yet with Idolatry , Ways of false-worship and Blasphemy : All ways of deceiveableness are found , In Popery all unrighteousness doth abound . Put all ways of Unrighteousness together , They may be found in Popery as Brother . They scruple not to do any wicked act , Rom. 3.18 . If they their wicked purpose can effect : Witness that Murder of Sir Edmondbury Godfrey , And others , with many a bloody Massacre : Their inhumane Cruelty in Ireland , Many poor Innocents suffer'd by Papists hand . What bloody designs had against England Now , had not God disappointed Papist , understand , Protestants might in blood have been involv'd , Had not God Papists wicked Inventions dissolv'd : And in other places many Cruelties I find Acted by Papist , Jehovah change their mind , To love mercy and truth , Micah 6.8 . may be inclin'd ; To love Scripture Truths , and to Protestants kind . And not hold it lawful to break Faith , And promise with Hereticks , as Pope saith : And disingage Subjects from Allegiance due , Then raise Wars in England , 't is too true . What wickedness was acted by a Papist Crew , Such as before , England never knew . Papists tell Men they merit Heaven further , If Men perpetrate or commit Murther Or any Villany , to advance wicked Baal , The Church of Rome , as I may her call . Oh that England now may loath her all , That before our King and Queen may fall Babylon , Rev. 17.1 . to the 6. verse Rome , . that false Prophet and Whore Of Abominations , let 's imbrace her no more : Let 's loath Popery with the greatest detestation , Because from Pagans had it's derivation , And too much practis'd in our Nation , Had I time , I could give a Demonstration . But all Popery to declare and unmask Particularly , were for me an infinite task . Thus I have briefly gone through Popery ; I could say something also of Episcopacy , But at present I shall pass it by , And write briefly , as my lines imply Of Gospel-worship , by Scripture-warranty : How Christ's Kingly and Priestly office is invaded , Under pretence for Christ , yet by Papist degraded , Is taken notice of , you see in my walk , Next of Gospel-worship I 'le a little talk : And consider it well as you pass by , Gospel-truths by Faith rightly apply .
THE EPISTLE TO THE READER . GOD hath shewed thee , Micah 6.8 . Man , what 's good , What to believe , what to do , is understood By Scripture , what God requires of thee , To do justly , and to love Mercy free , And to walk humbly with thy God , see This in Scripture , both high and low degree , Thy Obedience must all self-denying be , Luke 9.23 . Because our Salvation is by Christ alone , Rom. 3.24 . free : Justification , John 1.12 . Adoption and Sanctification Are all free unto us in our generation ; 1 John 3.1 . Are the fruit of Christ's Purchase clear , Rom. 6.4 , 6. Which in the Scriptures doth full appear . Eph. 1.4 . All Scripture is given by God's Inspiration , Is profitable for Doctrine in Mens station , For Reproof , 2 Tim. 3.16 , 17. for Correction , in Mens generation , For Instruction in righteousness to Salvation : That the Man of God may be perfect , Throughly furnish'd , to all good works compleat . There 's nothing in Religion but is contain'd In Scripture , Isa. 8.20 . and by Scripture maintain'd Should be , Gal. 1.8 . and not by Mens Tradition feign'd : Which is vain Religion or Will-worship , Mar. 7.7 . see In this Book more clear , Col. 2.18 , 23. search Scripture free . The Apostle shews that all things may And ought to be sought in a Scripture way ; Rom. 15.4 . Because Scriptures are sufficient for directation , To make a Man wise unto Salvation . 2 Tim. 3.15 . To search Scriptures I have my self applyd , The more , John 5.39 . because by many are laid aside : Count them insignificant , though not flatly deny'd , By a light within , and spirit of Pride . Obad. 3.4 . This is the Basis of all their arrogancy , Brethren to those that for Tradition cry : Jer. 9.13 , 14. Of this they boast , have the Spirits guide , 1 Cor. 2.10 . And so learn'd , pious Men , as is imply'd , And Scripture-knowledge also lay aside . Prov. 13.13 . They have the Spirit , they cannot sin , Luke 10.16 . They cannot err in nothing herein ; 2 Thes. 2.10 , 11 , 12. vers . They cannot speak , nor can they Pray , But when the Spirit moves their way . What should they do with natural Affection , They are all Spirit still by reflection . Scripture as a Rule they cast by rejection , Rom. 1.30 . If heady , high-minded , 't is the Spirit 's inspection : What may they not be carried to inherit By the imagination of the Spirit ? Yet don't mistake what my lines imply , Col. 2.12 . As though the Spirits operation I did deny : No , I do not , but how shall we try The Spirit , if the Scripture we pass by ? What rule to know whether be of God , 1 Joh. 4.1 . Or not , but by the Scriptures standing-rod . There is an excellent spirit or light within In every Man , yet this light not sufficient herein Eph. 2.10 , 13. To attain Salvation , this Scriptures record , Jer. 10.23 . God form'd a spirit in Man , saith the Word , Zech. 12.7 . Which spirit is call'd the Candle of the Lord : With this Spirit there is also the Law , Prov. 20.27 . Or substance of the first Covenant , know , Written or implanted in the heart . Rom. 1.19 , 20. Of worst of Men , yet they not depart From works of darkness , but still sinning , Yet the Word which was in the beginning With God , and was God , Joh. 1.1 , to 5. consider'd as he By whom all things were made free , And lighteth every one , high or low degree , That comes into the World , therefore know By means of this Spirit , Light or Law , Mankind may know and perform in 's station Many things , yet not in way of Salvation . Gen. 3.17 . The Law of Nature was before the fall Written in heart , Eph. 4.18 . but much obliterated in all By Adam's sin , Jer. 31.33 . & 32.40 . therefore God promis'd to write It in the hearts of his People , Scriptures recite : So runs the tenor of the New Covenant , I will give you my Spirit , Scriptures grant : Therefore of a natural light don't vaunt , 'T is a new Spirit which we by Nature want ; 2 Cor. 3.5 . All light within as of our selves recant . God Almighty who is the original of light , 1 Joh. 1.5 . And God of Spirits , made day and night , By Christ his Spirits operation don't slight . Joh. 1.3 . Heb. 1.2 . 'T is the Spirit gives knowledge to understand Scripture , 2 Cor. 3.6 . as so to do God's Command , Which Spirit the World cannot receive , Neither can any natural Men believe ; Whilst in a natural state don't understand 1 Cor. 2.14 . As to do the things of God's Command : There 's an insufficiency , as Scriptures speak , In the Light within , Rom. 8.3 . or Law , being weak ; Therefore God sent his Son to redeem us From sin , Gal. 4.4 , 5. and death , and the laws Curse ; Which by light within or natural course We could not do , but should grow worse . Abhor● that curs'd Doctrine , Rom. 12.9 . say what Men can , Of an inherent legal Righteousness in Man ; 1 Cor. 4.7 . Denying the imputed Righteousness of Christ , Who to reconcile us to God was Priest , Rom. 5.10 . To dye , shed his ' most precious Blood , Which by a legal Righteousness is withstood : Yet none can be justifi'd , Joh. 14.6 . cleans'd or sav'd Without Christ , Act. 4.12 . Man by sin is so deprav'd : Which if Man could Salvation attain By inherent Righteousness , Gal. 2.21 . Christ dy'd in vain . For if by works of Righteousness done By us , Tit. 3.5 . could attain Salvation as we run , Then there was no need of Christ the Son To dye ; if by walking up to light within We should be cleansed from all sin , 1 Joh. 1.7 , 9. Lead into all truth , and eternally sav'd ; What need was then of a Jesus crav'd , Rom. 5.8 . To fulfill the Righteousness of the Law , Heb. 9.28 . And shed his precious blood here below , To do so for us ? 1 Pet. 1.18 , 19. if Righteousness I say again Came by the Law , Christ is dead in vain , Gal. 2.21 . This is a wicked Maxim , I say it plain . Though self-righteousness be coasting With many , and so entertain boasting , Jam. 4.16 . Which is excluded by the Law of Faith ; Rom. 3.27 . By Grace we are saved , the Scripture saith : Eph. 2.8 . There is no other way unto salvation , But by Christ alone , saith Scripture-revelation . Act. 4.12 . Cast off filthy raggs of self-righteousness , Job 15.16 . run To Christ by Faith , or for ever undone . Isa. 64.6 . Respect Morality in way of sanctification , Zech. 3.4 . But count it dung in respect of Justification . Col. 3.8 , 9 Full of extreams are many in our days , To destroy souls Satan hath many ways : 2 Cor. 2.11 . Some a legal inherent righteousness affect , Others their Duty , Christ's Commands neglect : Luk. 6.46 . He thoughts of self-righteousness doth cherish , And he doth not 's Duty , both shall perish . Mat. 5.20 . 'T is not every hope of a presumptuous station , Job 8.13 . Nor yet a moral righteousness will enjoy salvation . Mat. 19.20 , 22. Don't mistake , as though moral Vertues I deny'd , This is to have what I have said misapply'd . Moral Vertues are commendable in Man , 2 Pet. 1.5 , 6 , 7. To be sober , chast , prudent , yet none can Commend us to God without Grace in heart , 2 Cor. 10.18 . Without Christ can't be sav'd , I will declar 't , Mat. 17.5 . Therefore from inherent Righteousness depart . Many others are by Presumption so odd , Profess there is , yet in actions deny God ; Tit. 1.16 . Meer Atheists in practice , wicked , Oh fear Christ's rod ! This is the foundation that standeth sure , 2 Tim. 2.19 . None shall see God , if not in Heart pure . Mat. 5.8 . Where Christ is Justification he 's Sanctification , Without Holiness there is no Salvation : 1 Cor. 1.30 . This may'st see in this Book more clear , Heb. 12.14 . Which from Scripture doth plain appear . For a practical belief of Scripture I contend , Without which eternal Death will be our end . Phil. 1.27 . To draw to a Conclusion , know herein , I hate no Man's Person but their sin . May be some Goliah's will despise my Youth , 1 Sam. 17.42 . Yet I fear not to speak Scripture Truth : My Saviours glory , Joh. 15.8 . Souls good to advance Is what I am at , whilst I am Husnance . Consider what my lines tell , 1 Cor. 10.15 . so Farewell .
HAving written , Reader , 2 Pet. 3.1 , 2. if you will look And consider first part of this Book , May see what 's said concerning Popery , And Protestant Religion , as my lines imply , Vindicated by the Scripture-warranty : God will be worshipped in spirit and truth , Joh. 4.24 . If Worship reach not this in Age or Youth , 'T is Prophaneness to God ; for to be sure , To worship in Spirit is with a Heart pure . Mat. 5.8 . Spirit yielding to Spirit , bad to good , This Worship by Bishops been long withstood . Jer. 23.1 , 2. Worship in Spirit is Heart yielding to Christ , 2 Cor. 10.5 . Not meer action rested in , as Bishops list . Phil. 3.3 . True Worship is everlasting doors within , Joh. 6.63 . Doors of the Soul , that everlasting thing , Psal. 24.9 , 10. Opened by the Spirit in Christ's auditory , And so receiveth Christ King of Glory , According to Truth , not Bishops story . 'T is holy Affection , like an Angel in a flame , Judg. 13.19 , 20. verses . Here 's to Worship God , not a Book , that 's shame To any under Gospel-light , to be so odd , 2 Tim. 3.7 . Without a Book not know how to worship God. Heb. 5.12 . To Worship in Truth is love become Divine , 1 Pet. 1.4 . By Grace in Heart the Soul doth shine ; Labours to please Christ , and the rather , That in Christ we may please the Father ; Mat. 3.17 . In Worship , depend on Christ's Approbation , Person and Worship left to Christ's Mediation . Heb. 7.25 . Oh consider Worship in this generation , Under this God's wonderful Dispensation . In Worship let there be a reformation . True Worship is regulated in Age or Youth ; None ought to add or diminish from Truth . Rev. 22.18 . We are Commanded by God alone Not to take the very least Corner-stone Of the Babilonish Materials , Jer. 51.26 . Zeph. 15. nor none Are to make such a linsy-woolsy Nod Or medley in the Worship of God ; Lev. 19.19 . Being required to take heed in our station , That we be not insnar'd in Conversation : Are not to enquire how other Nations Did serve their Gods in their generations : Deut. 12 30. We are not to do as they , but must obey God's Commands in a Scripture way ; Are not to add any thing thereunto , Nor diminish from , as the Bishops do . All Worship is sinful with one accord , That is not according unto God's Word . 'T is Will-worship as Scriptures make appear ; The Spirit of God chargeth us clear Not to meddle or have to do on no Condition With Ordinances which are after Tradition Of Men , Col. 2.21 , 22 , 23. vers . though have a shew of Wisdom pretended , Pretend to Decency , so Will-worship is defended : This men do when Scripture they abuse , And so their Superstitions they introduce . How have Bishops heretofore torn and rent Christ's little Flock , Luke 12.32 . by this Word Indifferent ! This term Indifferent , and pretended Decency , Hath been the foundation of all Apostacy From Christ's Rule , as my lines imply : What may not be under this Notion Introduced in Worship or Devotion ? 'T is not enough to be Baptiz'd to Church , Gal. 5.5 , 6. & 6.15 Say Prayers , if such Thoughts with you lurch . Know , Circumcision nor Uncircumcision avail , Going to Church , your Prayer-book will fail : Your being baptiz'd or not baptiz'd all one , Without Grace in heart you are undone : All Performances , Duties can do , rested in , Can't save , Acts 4.12 . without Christ , but prove thy sin . If in Christ , a new Creature , 't is only this , If any have not Christ's Spirit , Rom. 8.9 . none of his . Holiness is the foundation standeth sure , Heb. 12.14 . None shall see God , if not in Heart pure . The New Creature in Faith working by Love , In or of Christ , will cause of Salvation prove ; Not any Duty or Worship we can do , Gal. 5.5 , 6. Worship must have Scripture-warrant too ; Isa. 8.20 . Else worship you know not what , Mar. 7.7 . 't is plain Will-worship , you worship God in vain . Isa. 29.13.14 . verses . If worship be taught by Mens precepts , then Are conformable to traditions of Men : Luke 14.13 . Which is dreadful , consider it , Mat. 14.13 . at least Are under dreadful marks of the Beast . The Beasts mark is the Idolatrous way Of worship , which Papists use unto this day : Rev. 13.8.16 . verses . The Beasts mark in the Forehead , is when Any profess , or practise Idoltary openly , then Receive his Mark in their right hand , When persecute for not obeying Popes command . How many Protestants have suffer'd in England , For protesting against papists Blasphemies understand , Joh. 15.20 . How Protestants have suffer'd by the Papists hand . Yea some Protestants have been cruelly rack't , Yet under a protestant Masque , Bishops act : Which reader thou mayst see very plain , In what 's said before , if view it again . All admir'd the Beast , whose wound was heal'd , vers. 3. All were not in the Book of Life , were seal'd With his Mark , consider it , and tremble ; vers. 8. Worship is matter of consequence , don't dissemble . All who are not in the Book , 't is no Jeast , All the World were forc'd to worship the Beast , All , that is , most did with Superstition Feast . Mind the sad consequence , as dreadful effect Of false worship , God will thy worship reject , Isa: 1.12 . And thy self too , if false worship respect . If not in the Lambs Book , who was slain From before the World's foundation , t is plain , Thou must into Hell , for ever to remain . Rev. 20.15 . Take heed of worship , keep to Christs Institution , 2 Tim. 3.12 . Tho for so doing thou meet with persecution . Consider what 's to be of Antichrists number , To Hell must , tho herein they slumber . See what 't is to worship the Beast , to enjoy Perishing vanities , and your Souls destroy In Hell for ever , and not into Purgatory , Don't cheat thy precious Soul with a Story . Oh take heed of worship , Dan. 12.2 . my lines do cry , Consider , consider , whilst haft life , Eternity , Work out Salvation with fear and trembling , Phil. 2.12 . Worship God in Truth , cast off dissembling . Worship according to Gods Will , Joh. 4.24 . don't annoy Thy Soul with false worship , Psal. 16.11 . 't will destroy , Consider what 't is eternally God to enjoy .
SECT. II WOrship God is to endeavour to please God still , Joh. 15.10.14 . verses . We can't please God without doing his Will . Who will commend that Servant , that still Doth not observe , nor do his Masters Will ? Doth not the instinct of Nature and Reason Shew , Eph. 6.5 . as bodily Masters ought in season To be serv'd according to their commands , shall Not the high and puissant God , Psal. 86.8 . who ruleth all , Be worshipp'd , 1 Tim. 6.15 . serv'd according to his Command , Least said , Isa. 1.12 . who requireth it at your hand ? Therefore let 's labour Gods will to understand . Le ts consider , worship to God in our Station , As a duty of holiness to God , for expectation , It must be by doing his Will through Christ , Joh. 14.6 . & 15.14 . Not according to mens Inventions as they list : Worship , which on Mans Counsel is grounded , Or on the Authority of Princes is founded , Or custom never so ancient , or general receiv'd , If not according to Scripture , Gal. 1.8 , 9. not to be believ'd Nor practis'd , because fruitless and dead , Springing of the barren soil of Mans head . Swimming like a fume in the outward part , Heb. 4.2 . & 11.6 . But never receiv'd by Faith in the Heart : So their lusts and sins are never subdu'd , Nor their Souls cleans'd , Joh. 3.4.9 . verses . nor Hearts renew'd ; By which Snare many in their Generation , Never know what 's to be holy , Eph. 6.6 . by Renovation : True Worship is to depend on the Lord , With an Eye to Gods Commands in his Word . 1 Pet. 5.2 . Which proceeds from a filial fear of God , Psal. 4● . 8 . Childrens fear , not always driven by 's Rod : Psal. 5.7 . But worship in love , obedient in Faith ; Without which all is sin , Soripture saith . Rom. 14.23 . Take heed in worship , let us not dissemble With God and our Consciences , let 's tremble ; Mat. 27.4.5 . Verses . Lest we suffer in our selves a double Hell , For truth , this Spira , and others can tell , For conformity to the World , and complying To their Worship , their Conscience still crying . Rom. 2.15 . Dread sinning against Conscience , it will tare And roar , a wounded Conscience who can bear ? Prov. 18.14 A Hell have many had in their Conscience here In this Life , don't sin against Conscience , fear To sin against Conscience , Isa. 66 , 24. lest Conscience cry To thee in Hell , the Worm doth never dy . Mar. 9.44 . Consider it , for if my Pen Iron were In strength , yet would I not declare The sad Effects of abus'd Conscience , Luk. 16.24 . nor tell What pains and anguish they suffer in Hell. Reader , what 's think of these things , art dead ? Will they not enter thy Heart nor Head ? Art worse then Foelix , a Heathen ? don 't dissemble ; Acts 24.25 . When told of Judgment to come , did tremble . Take heed of a sear'd Conscience , tho now asleep , Like a Lion 't will roar and make thee weep . Once a storm in Conscience , tho at present withstood , 1 Tim. 4.2 . Nothing can quiet it but Christs Blood. Heb. 9.14 .
SECT. III. IF all I have said will not a little move , But for old Formalities hast still a love ; Isa. 66 : 1 , 2. Then a word more concerning the Church , That they no longer in thy Heart may lurch . He 's not a Jew , which is one only to the Eye , But he that in Heart and Life is lively Rom. 2.28 . In holiness , and Circumcision I take to be Grace in Heart , by the Spirits motions free . Whereby inabled in a spiritual way to go . 1 Cor. 14.15 . Pray by the Spirit with understanding also . Try what for Eternity , and the rather , If hast the Spirit , Rom. 8.13 , 14. he will cry , Abba Father : Answer in life the End of Christs dying ; Dost endeavour thy sins to be crucifying . Col. 3.5 , 6. Don't still live in Sin , that cursed evil , Christ dyed to destroy works of the Devil ; 1 John 3.8 . To purchase to himself a peculiar People Zealous of good works , Tit. 2.14 . not of Churches Steeple : As if that 's enough to do for Salvation , The Church commonly call'd in the Nation Is no more holy than any other place , Nor makes a duty holy , that is by Grace , We are not under the Gospel Station , Gal. 5.1 , 13. Bound to such a Bishops dedication : Nor can they make a place holy by Consecration , Christ hath abolish'd such practice in Station , As was us'd of old by the Jews Nation , Because we are under Gospel Dispensation . Wheresoever in Christs Name two or three , Mat. 18.20 . Christ promis'd among them he would be By his Holy Spirit , and assisting Grace , To bless them , not for love of the place : Be for holy places , yet live unholy ways , Live in sin and wickedness , yet for Holy-days : To be for holy ground , Gal. 4.10 , 11. yet unholy Hearts , Is a very sad delusion , my lines imparts : Be for holy Church , make it a holy place , Yet live unholy Conversations , is disgrace . Swear , Whore , be drunk , common in the Land , Then go to Church , Lev. 11 44. is this Gods Command ? Under the Gospel not ty'd to this Mountain To Worship , every where pray , not counting One place more than another , 1 Tim. 2.8 . tho some be More convenient , not holy , but that we May meet in publick Worship more free From disturbance , in our homage to God see What Gospel-priviledge we have by Christ , Not ty'd to Worship at Jerusalem , John 4.21 . as Men list . Worship a holy God , in holiness of worship due To God from us , for direction his Word pursue , Lev. 10.1 , 2. As before is plainly said , in love unto you : Take heed Worship be according to Gods Word , Don't offer strange Fire , lest consum'd of the Lord . Be humble , holy , God will be sanctified In or on us , see Nahab and Abihu who dyed . God's the living God , don't offer a dead Sacrifice , Dan. 9.4 . A dead prayer with a dead Heart , Mar. 12.27 . Man will despise Such a present as is blind , halt , and lame , Mal. 1.8 . Wil 't please Man before God ? that 's shame . What 's a form of Godliness , without the Power ! Yet tell of Mens formalities , how they lower . 2 Tim. 3 , 5. Oh the Church of England , they still cry , Tit. 1.16 . Oh the Church of England , they still cry , Yet the same still , nay , the same still , they dy Enemies to godliness , still workers of Iniquity . Sure there can't be a greater derogation Isa. 65.2.3 verses . To God and the Gospel in our Station , Than to live still a wicked Conversation . By Prayer profess God , 't is very plain , Yet not live according , I say it again , Mat. 15.8 , 9. Without practice is taking Gods Name in vain . As we profess , so let us do Gods Will , And not be found workers of Iniquity still : God looks not so much at parts in Prayer , Psal. 145.18.19 verses . As at the humble and sincere hearts desire : A pair of Pidgeons , or if but a Turtle-Dove , Find kind Construction from the God of Love ; If tendred in Faith , then a Widows mite , From willing minds find favour in Gods sight . Psal. 51.17 . Who from a sence of need and duty bring Their lowly Homage to their Heavenly King : Their blemishes to vail , their spots to hide , A costly Covering , Christ , God did provide : And to encourage us by a spiritual supply , The Spirits Operation helps our Infirmity . Rom. 8.26 . Oh be holy in Life , and also in Devotion , Live according to the Holy Spirits motion : 1 Thes. 5.19 . Calling on God , and not depart from evil , May be said to be worse than the Devil . The Devil han't mercy offer'd , Jam. 2.19 . yet doth tremble , Man hath Mercy tender'd , yet he will dissemble With God and his Soul , Psal. 9 17. till God him sever In pieces like a Vessel , Psal. 2.9 . then none can deliver . Consider it you Formalists , mind your Souls ; Can you dwell in everlasting burning Coals ? Isa. 33.14 . Consider it , without holiness no Salvation , Mind the necessity of your Souls Renovation . Heb. 12.14 .
SECT. IV. CArnal Worship pleases , 2 Cor. 6.14 . to the 17 verse . carnal Apprehensions Are for outward show , tho Mens Inventions : Come out from among them , Rom. 12.2 . saith the Lord , Don't conform to the World , saith the Word . Obj. Some may say , we mast obey that an hour , To dissent , we must obey the higher Power : Sol. To obey is active or passive , to do or suffer , To your consideration a word or two I offer : Jer. 7.23 . If what 's commanded be according to God's Word , Luke 20.25 . Contain'd in Scripture , Isa. 8.20 . then Obedience afford . Actively obey the higher Power , Scripture saith , If Commands are not against the Rule of Faith. Obedience from Inferiors to Superiors in Station , Is due to the King as Supream in the Nation , 1. Tim. 2.2 . And to others , but with this limitation , That Obedience be in or for the Lord , According to Gods Command in his Word . For Conscience-sake we are to obey the King , Rom. 13.5 . Or other Magistrates , in any lawful thing : As Subjects and Inferiours under their hand In subordination according to Gods Command . verse . 7. If the higher Powers Command Obedience , see If command according to Scripture , 1 Sam. 12.24 . or we Not bound to obey , Psal. 95.3 . in Scripture that I can see ; If Men command Obedience in high degree Command to worship , Jer. 10.6 . or believe implicitly , Because said , Rom. 6.16 . not Scripture , from obeying free , Which to obey , Acts 5.29 . God or Man , is best , judge ye . Gods absolute Soveraignty over us in chief , Psal. 10.16 . Is foundation of our Religion , and belief . None hath any absolute Power or Propriety Deut. 27.10 . Over Conscience , that 's Prerogative of the Deity : Exod. 19.5 . No power , but from God , grounded on his Law , 1 Pet. 5.3 . God ordain'd no power against himself know . Humane Laws are but by-laws subordinate 2 Chron. 10.15 . To Gods Law , tho some would other wile ha 't , He that ruleth over Men , should be just , Ruling in Gods fear , not in his lust . 2 Sam. 23.3 . Are not Powers ordain'd of God absolute ? No ; unless for God , this Reason will confute . I can't believe God ordain'd Power on condition , Against himself , no , it is by permission : Sometimes God suffers People a King to take As a Judgment , when they the Lord forsake . 1 Sam. 12.27.25 . vers . See your great wickedness in this thing , Take heed , least consum'd , you and your King. Thus it was with the People of Israel , When would have a King among them dwell : Only fear the Lord , Scriptures plain tell , Then you and your King may do well . verse 24. Consider then , Gods permission as we go , God did not ordain Nimrod , Julian , Nero , Gen. 10.8 . God's Interest to overthrow , cause his Peoples wo. God suffers them Power to take in high degree , Yet stops their Inventions many times see : Isa. 10.7 . For if Kings take power beyond the degree Of Christs Rule , Ye have reigned not by me . That is not according to the Scripture Command , 1 Cor. 4.8 . Or for Christs Interest , as I the Word understand : If Reign not for Christ , Kings have no Power Over our Consciences , tho the Body devour . In way of suffering Passive-obedience yield 1 Pet. 5.3 . In all submission , but take heed of sins field . In obeying the higher Powers , don't be so odd In thy Obedience , to sin against God , Jer. 17.13 . Fear and dread the Lords eternal Rod.
SECT. V. Obj. SOme say we must comply , and obey ; If not , we shall be in trouble every day : Tho at present have the Kings Toleration , It may be chang'd by Death in the Nation : Or other ways there may be an alteration , Sol. Mat. 16.26 . Is this Obedience to God , bodily preservation , Saving of Goods , Isa. 51.12 . and hazard Souls Salvation ? This is that Rock , that devouring Wolf Hath destroy'd many in the eternal gulf . 2 Tim. 4.10 . Many to save their Goods and Estates comply With Superstition , Col. 2.18 . Will-worship , and Popery : The Primitive Christians were not so , Thô in Mountains they were forc'd to go . Heb. 10.24 . At spoiling their Goods they did rejoyce , Now a little trouble , and a murmuring noise . Like the Children of Israel , Exod. 16.3 . when try'd , Murmure against God , wish they had dy'd : We have but the badge of Christianity , If we enjoy not content , all is vanity . Many Men care not for the smile of God , If they may enjoy the World , so odd In their lives are most Men , and herein They count it wisdom to sleep in whole Skin . Time-servers , if the World they inherit , Contented , Judg. 19. sensual , having not the Spirit : If they enjoy the mercy of a Brute , Fat pasture and peace , they will turn to 't . They are for a part in Paris , Phil. 3.19 . Sin and Vice In the World , care not for Paradise : This will prove sad when come to dy ; Therefore unto Christ by Repentance fly , And Faith in Christ ; 2 Cor. 6.20 . you are not your own , You are bought , Christ sits on his Throne : Hath purchas'd you , commands Obedience due , Kings owe Obedience so well as you 1 Tim. 6.15 . To Christ , see in the Scripture true , In all Obedience Scripture-way pursue . Christ , King of Kings , Rev. 1.5 . let all be subordinate To Christ , else thy Obedience is abominate . Obey higher Powers according to the Word , Take heed it be for , or in the Lord . 1 Sam. 12.24 . Pray for the King and all in Authority , Lord Convert all Unconverted , Pray , say I. 1 Tim. 2.1 , 2. Pray , Pray in Faith , let Prayer sound For much sin , amongst the gods found , Psal. 94.5 , 6 , & 97.7 . Lately in Kings and Rulers on English ground . Pray God would incline the King's heart , That from Gospel-worship he not depart ; Pray he may rule for Christ compleat , So may be William the good and great : Pray earnestly in Faith , I can't spare ye , Pray for his Royal Consort Queen Mary : Pray King and Queen so rule for God , Not like the Assyrian who was his rod. Isa. 10.5 . Pray in Faith , for God will no doubt By the King and Queen find great sins out . Pray , King William may be instrumental Chief under Christ of Babilon's fall . Jer. 51.1 , to the end . Pray for King William and 's Queen say I again , That they so rule whilst here remain , That they Christ's instituted Worship maintain , That in Heaven among Saints may reign . Thus active and passive Obedience yield Unto higher Powers as spiritually skill'd , 1 Pet. 2.19 , 20. And Christ thy King will win the field : Pray that Christ may then be thy shield . A little time Christ will come with majesty , Isa. 35.4 . Then Tribes of the Earth mourn and cry , Zech. 14.9 . Repent , be not found workers of Iniquity , Jer. 23.6 . Bring forth fruit to Holiness immediately : Justice , Truth , Righteousness he 'l maintain , Will destroy all those don't desire's reign . Luk. 19.27 . Christ King of Righteousness will sway Mat. 24.30 . The Scepter , his Name alone in that day Will be exalted , Isa. 2.17 . therefore Watch and Pray That Christ , Psal. 10.16 . blessed for ever would hast away . The exaltation of Christ the Lord 1 Tim. 6.15 . Alone as King , the Scriptures record : Which time draws near , Mat. 24.33 . Scriptures say , And dispensations too Friends now a day : Pulling down high things without delay , And other things which Scriptures display . Though the ball of Kingly Power men hurl , Little consider Saints shall Judge the World. 1 Cor. 6.2 . Yet this Comfort to Saints Scriptures record , Shall execute Judgment of the Lord . Though Saints be here derided , yet when try'd , None shall be sav'd without they 're sanctifi'd : 1 Pet. 1.2 . Though here despised , 1 Cor. 1.2 . and wicked men inviron Saints with Malice , yet shall bind with Iron ; Such honour , on Scripture record remains , Shall bind Kings and Nobles with Chains . Psal. 149.6 , to the 9. Ver. But hold my lines , here I would be mute , Because at present this way I not dispute . Thus have laid before you so brief as I can Concerning Obedience to God and Man : 1 Sam. 12.14 . Therefore take heed , let thy Obedience run In 's proper channel , Obey Christ or undone , For no salvation without in Christ the Son. Let Obedience to God be of more esteem Than to Man , 1 Pet. 1.18 , 19. Man could not us redeem ; Nor can all Worlds Kings , though you cry To them , do any good when come to dye . Alas poor Creature , Man shall be as grass , Can 't help 's self into eternity pass . Isa. 51.12 . Then obey God who hath you in 's power , 1 Sam. 2.6 . Can make happy or miserable in an hour .
SECT. VI. COnsider those things , 1 Cor. 10.15 . not as from me , But as from Scripture you may plainly see ; For I would not speak or write a letter Had I not Scripture-truth for the matter . Isa. 8.20 . Having thus far proceeded without delay , I will now briefly write of the Sabbath-day . The Sabbath is God's standing rule or rod , In which we ought to worship God 1 Cor. 14.33 . In a more publick or solemn way , Tender our homage to God without delay , Which is not Commanded on every day ; God's resting the seventh remember pray ; Gen. 2.2 , 3. Remember , keep holy the Sabbath-day : Remember it as if Jehovah should say , Exo. 20.8 . Take it as a Memento in your generation Of my Providence in the Worlds Creation . The seventh day was the Sabbath of old But under the Gospel , the Scriptures unfold The first day of the Week , Christians hold For the Sabbath , and call'd the Lords-day , Rev. 1.10 . Which we have cause to remember I say , In remembrance of Man's redemption By Jesus Christ , who without exemption Or doubt , on that day had his Resurrection , Joh. 20.1 , 19. Which we should apply by Faith's reflection ; Believing Christ's rising from the dead On the first day , lives for ever the Churches head . Col. 1.18 . First day is the Sabbath in Scripture clear , Mar. 16.2 , 9. When Christ unto his Disciples did appear ; Also Disciples on the first day brake Bread , Luk. 24.1 . And Preached on that day , in Scripture said . Oh then remember , and that without delay , Acts 20.7 . To keep it holy , not by idle sinful play , Break God's Command , sin the Sabbath away : Isa. 56.2 , 4 , 6. Seeing the Sabbath is of divine Institution , Do not prophane it by sinful pollution ; Be holy on the Sabbath , 't is a holy day indeed , By Gods standing Law 't is so decreed ; Without it Religion were a meer Confusion , 1 Cor. 14.33 . Although slighted by some under a Delusion : Lam. 1.7 . Yea how promiscuous would our Homage be To God , if one day in seven were not free , As a standing Rule , and perpetual Decree ! Keep holy the Sabbath in Commemoration Of Christ's Resurrection , 1 Cor. 1.30 . who is our Salvation . As you love your precious Souls , by the way Remember to keep holy the Sabbath-day ; Isa. 58.13 . For wherever Religion doth flourish , They an observation of the Sabbath cherish . How careful have been , in their station To keep holy the Sabbath , Mat. 28.1 . in Commemoration Of Christ's Resurrection , in their generation , Who is the only way unto Salvation . Act. 4.12 . Others , where Religion is gone to decay , Live loose to sin on the Sabbath-day ; You may see it plain in old England , Few practically remember God's Command . Oh remember by holy Contemplation Christ's rising from Death for our Salvation ! Remember to keep holy the Sabbath-day , Exod. 31.15 . pray , 'T is your Seed-time , your Market-day For your Souls , consider and be casting , We shall celebrate a Sabbath everlasting In Heaven , with the holy Deity for ever , and Sing Hallelujah , Exo. 20.8 . then remember God's Command .
SECT. VII . Obj. BUT is not every day a Sabbath ? some will say : Sol. Unto Believers I answer by the way . Every day should be a Sabbath from sin , We should sin on no day , but herein Observe where Religion doth rise or fall , When 't comes to every day , soon none at all , Meer Libertines seldom on God call . Act. 6.9 . How many spend the Sabbath in idle-talking ? Others in Hells broad way are walking ; Some Whoring , Exod. 16.28 , 29 , 30. verses . and on wickedness thinking , Some in Ale-houses spend the Sabbath in drinking ; Some formally observe the Sabbath , yet so evil In their lives , all the Week serve the Devil : They pretend to keep a Sabbath unto God , Yet in their Lives very wicked and odd . Jer. 17.21 . Many rest from bodily labour at least , But other ways are worse than the beast , By sinful passing of the Sabbath away , By Drunkenness , or with superstitious Play ; Whereas God requireth of Age or Youth To worship him in spirit and in truth : Joh. 4.24 . Many are for Holy-days , Mens inventions , These things please carnal apprehensions . Jer. 7.4 , to 11. The Church , the Temple is Holy , some will say , Yet themselves live unholy in their way , Yea oppose the Holiness of the Lords-day ; Neh. 10.31 . Which God Commanded by his Institution , Not holy Places , holy Days , by Mens pollution . Many are for holy Places by Consecration , Yet live wicked , unholy in Conversation , 'T is too too true in our English Nation . Some their Children and Servants at play Ezek. 20.12 . So wickedly spend the Sabbath away ; What will they do when God shall say , Was this your keeping Holy the Sabbath-day , Which I Commanded ? is this your serving me ? Then in Hell you shall endure eternal misery . If the Jews were punished in their station Numb. 15.32 , 35. For breaking the Sabbath , in their generation , Which was set apart in Commemoration Of God's Providence in the World's Creation ; Sure God will punish those in cheir station That break the Sabbath in their Conversation , Which is set apart in the Commemoration Of our Saviour , Jesus Christ's Resurrection : Luk. 23.56 . Yet how is the Sabbath slighted by rejection By many , you may see by their Lives complexion ; 'T is too manifest by their ways reflection ; How will it be when need Christ's protection ? Therefore keep Holy the Sabbath by Scripture-direction , Whiles here in this World you remain , Heb. 12.23 . That in Heaven an eternal Sabbath may keep again .
SECT. VIII . SO much briefly concerning the Sabbath-day , Now concerning Prayer I will a little display , And Consider it Reader , in thy way ; 'T is a Duty incumbent on all to Pray . 1 Sam. 1.10 , to 13. Some unto Prayer have themselves addressed , When no words have been expressed . Secret Prayer is sometimes very good , Psal. 139.2 . The Hearts desires are by God understood : But yet publick Prayer in thy station Dan. 9.3 , to 21. Should be vocal , for others edification . Mental Prayer is good for self-reflection , Yet vocal Prayer doth move the Affection : The expression of the Tongue with art Of Faiths affection , doth move the Heart . As to the gesture in Prayer , Heb. 12.28 . some affect One way , some another , and some neglect All outward gesture , and do it reject ; Yet we should an humble gesture respect . Act. 20.19 . Eph. 3.14 . But this is not what is in my eye , So that the gesture I will at present pass by , And to the matter of Prayer I will apply My self , according to present light descry . Prayer hath been a Duty in all Ages , and still Is , if we Pray according unto God's Will Revealed in Scripture , though some it despise , Being blinded by the Father of lyes . Pray not only for Friends but for Enemies , Mat. 5.24 . This direction our Saviour Christ descryes Unto his Disciples , and is a rule to us likewise . The Saints Prayers are golden Vials , Rev. 5.8 . Prayer supports Believers under many Tryals ; Luk. 21.36 . Like the Sun when shines clear on Dyals , Tells us how our time doth pass away , As motives to make us Watch and Pray . Mat. 26.41 . If tenders thy homage to God by Prayer , It must be with a spiritual desire ; It must be the breathings forth of Grace Isa. 26.9 . By the Spirit , in thy Christian race ; Don't live in sin , then Pray , that disgrace Unto thy self , and doth much deface The Duty of Prayer , when still banding Words , and not Pray with understanding : 1 Cor. 14 , 15. Let me tell thee , whether Age or Youth , Thou must Pray in spirit and in truth : Joh. 4.24 . Pray in truth , not only to learn the art To say a Prayer , when there is no Heart To practise according , although thou cry With thy Tongue , if thy Tongue say a lye ; Take heed , don't mock with the Holy Deity . Gal. 6.7 . Thou must Pray to God with a pure Heart , With a resolution from sin to depart . In heart don't regard Iniquity , nor sin desire , If so , God will not hear thy Prayer : Psal. 66.18 . If thou Pray , yet love thy sin still , 'T is not Praying according unto God's Will ; God's Will is even our Sanctification , 1 Thes. 4.3 , 4. Pray , and live according in our station ; To promote Christ's Kingdom in our generation , To sanctifie God's Name in our Conversation ; That God's Will may be done on Earth , even As Angels and Saints do it in Heaven . Luk. 11.2 . Not Pray , Christ's Kingdom come , like those Who so say , yet Christ's Kingdom oppose ; The Reason is , they don't Pray in Faith , Rom. 14.23 . So their Prayer is sin , as Scripture saith . Psal. 109.7 . Although a Seal for Prayer many pretend , Yet by Faith on Christ they don't depend , Nor in their Lives don't answer the end Of Prayer , but in Life they Christ offend : They can't Pray with fervency of Affection , The power of Prayer hath no reflection On their Hearts , that 's cast by rejection : The life and power of Prayer can't abide , 2 Tim. 3.5 . But in their Forms of Prayer confide ; If formal Prayer they retain and inherit , Rom. 12.11 . They contented , sensual , having not the Spirit ; Jude 19. Can't Pray spiritually , but are so odd In Prayer , can't spiritually call on God ; Nor Pray unto God by Faith continually Col. 4.2 . In the Spirit , who can only Grace apply . Not that we should Pray still the same , But that our Hearts always be in frame Fit for Prayer , that on all occasions we Tender our Duty unto God more free , By his Spirits operation , Col. 2.12 . and the rather , Because the Spirit will cry , Abba , Father ; Makes intercession with sighs and cryes , Rom. 8.15.26 . Verse . The Spirit helps also our infirmities . Both habitual , assisting , actuating Grace , Is from the Spirit in our earthly race , Let us not his motions then deface . 1 Thes. 5.19 .
SECT. IX . Obj. SAy some , May not a Form of Prayer be us'd ? Sol. Yea , if not rested in , or sinfully abus'd : As Children have a staff to learn to go , But when able , 1 Cor. 14.20 . the staff away throw ; Or as some others who learn to swim , then They use Bladders you know , but when Have the Art , from Bladders they depart And swim like Men with a rejoycing heart . Eph. 4.14 . A Form of Prayer for Children or Youth Is necessary , 'till they understand Truth In a spiritual way , Col. 1.10 . then a Form they defie , And Pray for the Spirit to help infirmity . A Crutch is of use unto Men are lame , Which unto sound Men you know is shame . A Form of Prayer you see by reflection 2 Tim. 3.7 . Where 't is us'd , doth imply an imperfection . Praying in Spirit is Heart-yielding to Christ , 2 Cor. 10.5 . Not a meer Form rested in , Phil. 3.3 . as Men list . True Praying is everlasting Doors within , Joh. 6.63 . Doors of the Soul , that everlasting thing , Open'd by the Spirit to Christ , Psal. 24.9 , 10. King of glory , According to Truth , not according to Mens story : 'T is holy Affection , like an Angel in a Flame , Judg. 13.19 , 20 This is praying to God , not a Book , that 's shame To any under Gospel-light , to be so odd , 2 Tim. 3.7 . Without a Book not know how pray to God. Heb. 5.12 . To pray in Truth , is love become Divine ; 1 Cor. 1.30 . By Grace in Heart , the Soul doth shine . 2 Pet. 1.4 . In Prayer depend on Christs Approbation , Person and Prayer left to Christs Mediation : Psal. 31.16 Not like Bishops and Priests in the Nation , Heb. 7.25 . Who rest in Forms in their Generation , Eph. 4.19 . Have no feeling of the Spirits Operation : They say , Hallowed be thy Name , Mat. 6.9 . When their Lives by sin , cry shame . How many fay , Deliver us from Evil , vers. 13. Yet still do the Works of the Devil ? In their Lives pray for daily Bread For the Body , when the Soul is dead vers. 11. For want of Grace , and also herein They say not , pray forgive us our Sin vers. 12. As we forgive others ; how would it be , If God should do as they say ? for see They in malice run in a high degree . They say , Lead us not into Temptation , vers. 13. Yet run in all sin in their Conversation : To be a Christian only in Name , 't is plain , Without practice , taking Gods Name in vain . Mat. 7.21 . T is not enough to pray or say , Lord , Lord , Without living in life according to the Word . Pray , and be holy in Life , and the rather , If not you don't believe in God the Father . God is holy , Lev. 11 44. and doth also Command Us to be holy , see Scripture , and understand . Eph. 1.4 . Don't pray , yet still in thy life so odd ; But live holy , like the Sons of God , By Adoption , and real Regeneration , Rom. 8.14 , 15. Which is effected by the Spirit 's Operation : As many as are led by the Spirit , They live by Faith , and apply Christs Merit . As we pray , so let us do Gods Will , And not be found workers of Iniquity still : Only a form of godliness , Tit. 1.16 . nothing worse , To pray , yet live in sin , a dreadful Curse , Without the Power , 2 Tim. 3.5 , then let us tremble , No longer with God in Prayer dissemble . The Prayers of those whom God by donation Hath given unto Christ , Joh. 17.24 . in their Generation , Are accompanied with Christs Mediation , And Intercession of Jesus Christ , presented Unto the Father , let Prayer be augmented : Tho in Prayer we in much weakness run , Our encouragement is in Christ the Son. Therefore in this Channel let Prayer run ; God is not pleas'd in any , Mat. 17 5. but in his Son. Let 's lift up holy hands in our Station , Without wrath and doubting in our Generation : 1 Tim. 2.8 . Here is a spiritual , holy qualification ; Let 's be holy in outward Conversation . As is the Fountain , so will be the Stream ; Let 's live by Faith , Jam. 3.11 , 12. not like Men in a Dream . All our Souls Faculties must act in Prayer , Our Undestandings , Affections , and Hearts desire . Like Jehoshaphat , 2 Chron. 19.3 . let 's seek the Lord , Set all our strength , as saith the Word . Pray in humility unto God , understand Thy own unworthiness , under whose hand And Power thou art , who can command The whole World into nothing , Isa. 40.17 . and Both Soul and Body must live or dye Mat. 10.28 . At Gods dispose , for ever to all Eternity .
SECT. X. Obj. BUt some may say , what need we pray , God knows all our wants every day ? Psal. 44.21 . Sol. The Duty of Prayer is so clearly stated In Scripture , John 21.17 . it cannot be abrogated : 'T is a Duty in Nature , the Heathens so odd , Said to Jonah , Jonah 1.6 . Arise , call upon thy God. 'T is true , God knows before we can say What we need , Job 34.21 . yet 't is our Duty to pray , That we may be sensible of our need , Of what we want , God hath so decreed : Psal. 50.15 . We should pray , showing our dependency On God for what we want , in humility Supplicate the Almighty , who knows well Our wants before we ask , yet Scripture tell That God will be enquir'd of by Israel . Ezek. 36.37 . God hath promis'd that he will hear Jer. 29.12 . Prayer , when we out of a sence appear 1 Pet. 3.12 . Of our wants before God , in holy fear ; Jam. 4.8 . Then God will unto us draw near . In time of Affliction , the Scriptures say , Is a seasonable time for Men to pray : Then the Spirits motions are quick , Prayer of the faithful saves the Sick. Jam. 5.13.15 . verse . His Ears are open unto their praying cry , Althô some slight Prayer as they pass by : Yet the Spirit doth in our Christian Race , Make the Soul fruitful in all Grace . Rom. 15.5.13 . verse . The Spirit us and Duty doth not divide , But moves to Duty , like wind and tide To a Ship , makes us run to Gods Command In a way of Obedience , by the Spirits hand . 2 Cor. 1.22 . Pray frequently , fervently in our Station , The Spirit gives wings unto Supplication ; Yea , then is the Soul fill'd with Consolation : Tho Prayer by some be cast by rejection , Yet Believers praise God with strong Affection Psa. 50.23 . Constantly , not like some in our nation , Who pray when the Spirit in their Station Heb. 13.15 . Doth move them to pray in their Generation : So Prayer is in their Families little us'd , At their eating and drinking very confus'd , 1 Cor. 10.31 . The Duty of Prayer they have much abus'd . To neglect Prayer is a wicked infusion , Instead of Gods Spirit , a spirit of delusion : For the Spirit of God , where it doth move , Eph. 2.18 . Constrains the Soul to pray in love : And Faith by the Spirit , the cause is such , 2 Cor. 5.14 . Where much is forgiven , they love much : Luke 7.47 . They abound in work of the Lord , In eating and drinking , saith the Word : Do all to the Glory of God , 1 Cor. 10.31 . be active In ways of holiness , in Grace to thrive ; Let it appear , the Spirit is in you alive : Quickning you by his Spiritual Motion , Psal. 16.5 . Delighting you to do Gods Will in Devotion , Until you enjoy God as your Portion . Lam. 3.24 .
SECT. XI . TO summ up all , Reader , for thy Memory , In love I will my self briefly apply . 2 Pet , 3.1 , 2. All my aim is thy spiritual advance ; I speak truth , as my Name is Husnance . This Method can't be unpleasing to desire , Consider the , my conclusion of Prayer : And mind well what is said before , For thy good I will say a few words more . All words put in a dead form of Prayer , Are not Prayer , Isa. 11.15 . whilst the Hearts desire Is for Iniquity , and after Sin doth dance , Whiles the Heart 's full of sin and Ignorance , When incredulity in Life doth advance , And uncharitableness in Conversation , The Prayer of such is an abomination Unto the Lord , Prov. 15.8 , 9. clear in Scripture , and Why call me Lord , and do not my Command ? Prayer , Luke 6.46 . is not always to be banding Words in Prayer , without Understanding . Don't pray , Luke 13.27 . yet be a worker of Iniquity still , This is not praying according to Gods Will . Pray in Faith , and with a pure Heart , And from sin in thy Conversation depart . Answer the end of Prayer , in Conversation , In sincerity , Lev. 10.3 . by the Spirits Operation . Pray in the Spirit , whether Age or Youth , In fervency , sanctifie the God of Truth : Pray constantly , and in humility , For acceptation , Mat. 17.5 . Christ by Faith apply . This is to pray unto God , then look , Here is more than praying in a Book : Here 's more than saying words in notion , 'T is not easie to pray by the Spirits motion , Without watching thereunto , by Faith's desire , Luke 21.36 . This is to give one's self unto Prayer .
SECT. XII . FRom the Duty of Prayer I will advance , And write briefly of Baptisms Ordinance . There are very many Arguments among Some to whom Baptism doth belong : Scripture to this point satisfaction give , Seems to me , it belongs to them believe , Act. 8.37 . Or of believing Parents , as a qualification , All required to believe in their Station . Infants of believing Parents , in Covenant Are to be baptiz'd , Scriptures seem to grant : The Promise being to them , and their Posterity , Acts 2.39 . But here 's not the main of what 's in my Eye : So pass it by , and write of Baptisms use Briefly , and also of Baptisms great abuse . Baptism is an Ordinance of Christ in 's place , Joh. 3.5 , 8. Yet the very Act doth not conferr Grace . Col. 2.11 . Baptism , not the cause of Regeneration , The Spirit may work our Renovation Tit. 3.5 . Before , or after Baptism , a Type of Regeneration , Rom. 4.11 . As a Sign or Seal of our Confirmation And ingrafting into Christ in our Station , Acts 4.12 . Who is the only way unto Salvation . Baptism , admits into the Church of God ; Afflictions also are call'd his baptizing Rod. Mar. 10.39 . Baptism is a lively Figure of Christs Death , Rom. 6.3 , 4. By baptism ingag'd to Christ , whiles breath : It represents Christs Burial and Resurrection ; Then live to Christ , depend on his Protection : Being buried with Christ in baptism , Col. 2.12 . dy to sin And live unto Righteousness , 1 Pet. 2.24 . and herein By Baptism we give it under our hand , To fight under Christs Banner , at 's Command : Deny our selves , by holy , real resignation , Live to Christ , Eph 1.7 . who purchas'd our Salvation . Baptism , is our covenanting with God ; Don't live a wicked life , fear his Rod. Only Covenant making , is much like a Story , 'T is Covenant-keeping only brings to Glory . John 13.17 . Seal of a Covenant , makes not a Covenanter , Don't live in life like a prophane Ranter . Act. 2.17 . Baptism rightly understood , Gal 4.6 . by Christs merit , Brings us under a promise of the Spirit , Which works in us true Baptism , Gal. 5.22 . saving Faith , Having our Conversation holy , Scripture saith . Walk in love Brother-like , not like a Noddy Of malice , being baptiz'd into one body , By the Spirit , 1 Cor. 12.13 . whereby we come to see Our deprav'd nature , John 7.37.39 . vers . by sin can't happy be Without Christ , to him by Faith flee . In being baptiz'd , only let none rest , Without the end of it in life 's exprest : 'T is not washing of water , as I understand , Doth good , as in obeying Gods Command . This point from Scripture , I gather hence , True baptism is answer of a good Conscience Towards God , by the Resurrection of Christ , To live holy , 1 Pet. 3.21 . and not in sin as we list : By Baptism mayst be a Member of the Church , Yet not of Christ , fear what thoughts lurch In thee ; mayst be in a state of Damnation , Tho baptiz'd , if lives a wicked Conversation . A Man may be sav'd , Act. 8.13 . to the 24. tho not baptiz'd , If he believe , let not Baptism be Idoliz'd . Tho Baptism be necessary in its station , Yet 't is nothing without the Spirits Operation : Rom. 3.30 . Tho Baptism be necessary in its place , Col. 2.12 . The end of Baptism in life don't deface : For if thou dost , the Truth I will tell , Baptism will not save thee from Hell. Mat. 7.23 .
SECT. XIII . AS to Baptisms performance , Scriptures descry , Mat. 28.18 , 19. vers . Have Christs Institution ever in thy Eye . Purest Ordinances may be sinfully abus'd , Much more those are superstitious us'd . Take heed of Mens inventions , and pollution , Few now keep to Christs Institution : Psal. 14.3 . Having Gossips and Cross in their scope , Which things did derive from the Pope . Baptizing Children , like a Stage-plays dance , With a drunken Feast , is this Christs Ordinance ? Mat. 28.20 . They be intitled Christian , with a Feast , 'T is not Christs way , but way of the Beast . Rev. 13.16 , 17. Baptism's efficacy is contain'd in Christ , Not in the action , by a time-serving Priest ; Psal. 50.16.22 . vers . Who holds Regeneration on the deed done , So , tho never so wicked , to Baptism run ; Gal. 1.10 . Yet in their lives very wicked and odd , For all their sign of Cross , Enemies to God : Yet say are Christians , why ? because baptiz'd , See how Baptism is abus'd and idoliz'd By most of Men ; Col. 3.1 , 2. to the 13 vers. few answer the end Of Baptism , tho Christians they pretend . How prophane are Priests in the Nation , To all wicked officiate administration ! How corrupt with the Popes pollution Jer. 9.13 , 14 , 15. Few of Priests keep to Christs Institution . Baptizing wicked Mens Children , none exempt , Prov. 13.13 . So bring the Ordinance into contempt . How careless , and promiscuously admit , Before they are , by Examination , fit : Contrary to Scripture , Act. 8.37 . which you may see Many Instances ; search Scripture free : The Eunuch examin'd , before baptiz'd was he , If fit to receive into Church Society . Acts 9.16 , 17. Not to baptize all come , hand over head , Lay aside Scripture Rule as a thing dead : Like Papist , Lev. 10.1 . by whom Superstition is augmented , The Priest admits whomsoever is presented , If the Parent never so wicked , not prevented , And by whomsoever , tho a wicked Noddy , Preposterous to insert such into Christs Body , The Church , when in all probability , we Have no ground , Acts 2.4 , 7. that they Disciples will be Of Christ , Eph. 4.18 , 19. but rather Enemies , we daily see ; Yet the Priest with 's Surplice , Cross and Font , Baptizeth , and asketh the Infant upon 't , Wilt be baptiz'd in the present Faith ? I will , in the Childs Name , the God-father saith : Which is ridiculous to men of Reason , Infants not capable of Faith at that season : 1 Cor. 14.20 . If they were , how know they his mind ? They from consenting might be disinclin'd . That Infants by Sureties believe and repent , When capable of neither , is impertinent ; Yet see in our days 't is plain , how frequent ; Most are for Baptism , yet no rule appears In the Scriptures , 1 Cor. 11.16 . nor for many years Since the Apostles time , as some write Of the ancient Fathers , whom I could recite . Then those Ceremonies in all their scope , Were introduc'd , since rising of the Pope . Oh how corrupt are Priests of the Land , Are Surplice , Lev. 19.19 . sign of Cross , Gods Command ? Paul glory'd in Christs Cross in his Heart , Not the sign on 's Forehead , that 's Papist art . No Crosses us'd in the Apostles days , Gal. 6.14 . Nor Scripture pattern for such idle Plays : No Crosses were us'd by the Apostles hand , Nor any Example , nor Scripture Command . Of Crosses there is made no mention In Baptism , not in Scripture intention ; Those Crosses then are the Popes invention . In Scripture , no such custom understand , Who then requir'd this at the Priests hand ? Isa. 1.12 . Must they not say , our Master , the Pope ? For no cammand in the Scripture scope Mat. 19.8 . For such practices ; so Christ's sovereignty deny , And with Inventions of Men comply : Mat. 15.9 . 'T is a great dishonour to Christ , and indignity , To use that in his Worship is meer Idolatry , Which Christ never instituted , is from Popery : As though Christ was not the only Law-giver , Being Wisdoms fountain , God blessed for ever . Rom. 9.5 .
SECT. XIV . HAving written of breaking Bread before , As Christ's Ordinance , I shall say no more At present , 2 Tim. 2.14 . but shall according to what I know Write briefly concerning the Moral Law. Obj. Some there are say in our Christian race , We are not under the Law but under Grace ; Rom. 6.14 . In the Gospel 't is very plainly stated , That the Law by Jesus Christ is abrogated . Sol. This would require more than I shall say At present , only a word briefly by the way . The liberty which Christ hath purchas'd , know , Is deliverance from the Curse of the Law ; Gal. 3.13 . For Believers take heed what thoughts lurks , 'T is deliverance from it as a Covenant of Works : Rom. 7.6 . Christ frees Believers from its malediction , But not from the Moral Laws prescription ; Joh. 15.14 . The Law was added to the Gospel by reflect , Gal. 3.19 . Not as a supplement to make up a defect , But as an Instrument to prepare the way , And discover our need of a Gospel-day ; The Law , like John Baptist , as Scriptures say , With his Axe a way did make or increase Mat. 3.2 , 10. Before Christ Jesus , the Brince of Peace : The Law as a School-master , Scripture saith , To lead to Christ the object of saving Faith. Gal. 3.24 . The Gospel is the Moral Law translated , Christ being the substance of the Law stated In Scripture , which you may plainly see , Tit. 2.12 . The 2d. of Titus , 12 Verse , will explain it t' ye . Take heed of Hypocrisie , Luc. 12.1 . do as art able Duty to God and Man in both Table ; Live righteously and godly , don't you part What God hath joyn'd , let God have thy Heart . Godly relates to Piety and Sanctification , Righteousness relates to a moral qualification ; Joyn Piety to God and Morality together , 2 Pet. 1.5 , 6 , 7. Where Grace is , Moral Virtues don't sever : These things involve and comprehend All the Law , from beginning to the end , Though briefly , which is what I intend : Christ hath made us free from its Curse , Rom. 7.6 . Not that in sin we should grow worse . Christ saveth us from our Enemies hands To serve him , Luc. 1.74 , 75. and obey his Commands : Christ hath purchas'd for us Liberty to keep , Not liberty to break the Law , Rom. 6.20 , 22. and so sleep In sin , as many do in our days we know , And boast they are not under the Law ; No , nor under the Gospel neither , say I , In way of salvation can't no Promise apply . Heb. 12.14 . By Christ Believers have liberty from sin , Not a liberty to do evil , and herein The Law in its place is good and just : 'T was by the Law Paul did know Lust . The Law shows how by sin we are deprav'd , Rom. 7.7 . That without Christ none can be sav'd ; The Law serves to humble us in our way , Should drive us to Christ without delay . The Law shows us our need of Christ , Tells us we must not live as we lift . Do this and live , Rom. 10.5 . the Law to us doth say , Tells us when by sin we go astray . The Law awakens Conscience , and herein By the Law is the knowledge of sin . The Law shews our impotency , Rom. 7.7 . so to be humble , If we sin , it makes our Conscience grumble ; Drives us to Christ , and that without delay , Who alone did fulfill the Law , Col. 1.19 . Scriptures say . The Law given as a Rule of Life , is so still , Psal. 19.7 . Tells us what 's not , and what is God's Will . What God forbids , ought not to be done , What God commands , 't is Duty as we run ; Not to be justified by doing in our station , Tit. 3.5 . Let 's be holy as we can in our generation ; Yet without in Christ there 's no Salvation , The Law is of no use in way of Justification , Yet it points to the way of Sanctification . The Scriptures establish the Law in its place , Rom. 3.31 . Yet Justification is by Christ's Free-Grace .
SECT. XV. THE Law given to Adam by the Creator , But to us in the hands of a Mediator ; Gal. 3.16 . Believers not bound to its obligation , As to its rigour , that 's off , by Christ's mitigation , Having abollish'd all Rites and Ceremonies Of the Ceremonial Law , by 's dying Sacrifice . Christ hath blotted out , the Scriptures say , Col. 2.14 . The hand-writing of the Law , taken it away : Consider this point , Reader , without delay . Paul don't mean the Moral Law ; what then ? The Inventions and Commands of Men. Verse 22. From Levitical and Ceremonial Law are free , By Christ , who purchas'd this Freedom for we : And so far as the Moral Law was against us , Christ hath freed Believers from its Curse ; Took it out of the way and nail'd it to his Cross . In point of Justification , don't you touch , Verse 21. Neither tast , nor handle , which is as much As though Paul had said , Don't you depend On the Law , in your aim and end , As though you could in a legal way or station Fulfill the Law , and so obtain Salvation . If this be your aim , then you are undone , There 's no Salvation but by Christ the Son. Do good Works as evidences of Salvation , Mat. 7.16 , 17 , 20. By Fruit the Tree is known in his station . Respect the Law as a spur to Sanctification , Gal. 5 22. But count it dung in respect of Justification . Phil. 3.8 . Yea , Paul himself , as in Scripture plain , Counteth all things loss that were gain Before his Conversion , but then cryed he , 'T is dung , that in Christ I may found be , Not having's own Righteousness , Scripture faith , But the Righteousness of Christ by Faith. Verse 9. Paul excludes the Law in Justification , Yet owns it as a rule of Sanctification : So the Moral Law is good in its place , But not to Justifie , Ephes. 2.8 . that is by Free-grace . The end in giving the Law , say all I can , Was to humble the proud Heart of Man , Who was pufft with self-conceited Pride , What God Commands we will do , Exo. 19.8 . they cry'd , As though able of themselves , did impart , When as to Performance they had no Heart . Deut. 5.29 . The Law in it self is but a literal story , Cannot discover Christ in his glory ; Luk. 24.45 . Let the Consideration of its rigour move To go unto Christ by Faith and Love.
SECT. XVI . COnsider farther , for I have more to say , 'T is impossible for any in a legal way To keep the Law in way of Justification ; It was the Pharisees sin in their station , Luk. 18.11 , 9. And I fear the sin of many in our Nation . Many think to be Justifi'd by their Works , Rom. 10.3 , 4. Such will be sav'd no more than Turks . Others in their lives Law and Gospel deface , Jer. 48.7 . Live in all sin still , Jam. 2.20 . and cry Free-grace . Some are for the Law in way of legality , Others are of an Antinomian quality . Full of extreams are Men in our days , To destroy Souls Satan hath many ways : 2 Cor. 2.11 . So full of extreams is poor England , Few in their Practice eye Christ's Command . Many are for reading the Law in Churches , As if that 's enough , such baseness lurches In Men and Women , as my lines impart , Yet the Law not written in their Heart : Jer. 31.33 . Yet to have Moses read are still at strife , Yet practise nothing of the Law in life ; Zealous for the Law , like the Jews of old , Joh. 5.42 . Who did oppose Moses to Christ , so bold They were for Moses in their station , Slighted Jesus Christ who came for Salvation . Is it not so with many in our Nation , For they practise nothing in Conversation Of the Law in life ; therefore 't is but just The Law condemn them , in whom they trust . Verse 45. As Christ said to the Jews , in Scripture see , 'T is practice that makes the Law to be A Rule , or leader unto Christ , that we By Faith come to Christ , who did us free From the Curse of the Law , and also hath Delivered all Believers from eternal Wrath ; 1 Thes. 1.10 . Having Peace with God , as Scripture saith , Rom. 5.1 . & 6.1 , 2. Being freely Justified in Christ by Faith : Shall we sin then because Grace doth abound ? God forbid , yet many such in England found . Such baseness in many Mens Hearts there lurks , Don't do Duty , least under a Covenant of Works ; And instead of doing Works of the Covenant , Live in all Uncleanness , Lye , Swear and Rant ; Say , Christ dy'd for Sinners , all 's done by Christ , So take liberty to sin , live as they list : Sure these Men despise the riches of Grace , Rom. 2.4 . Not knowing God's goodness , his Law deface ; They love darkness rather than light , we see , Which will their eternal Condemnation be . Many are with shaddows of the Law affected , Joh. 3.19 . When the substance in their lives is neglected . Many Men and Women own Christ high With their mouths , when their lives say a lye : Many in words profess Christ in the land , Luk. 6.46 . But Oh how few do Christ's Command ! He that will have Jesus a Saviour know , Must also have respect unto his Law : Psal. 119.6 . He is Jesus a Saviour only to those afford Obedience to him as their King and Lord . Heb. 5.9 . Here 's point of distinction by the standing-rod , He doth not Righteousness is not of God : Others are for doing the Law in their station , 1 Joh. 3.10 . And rest in doing , in their generation ; It was , is so with the Jews , to this day Are for the Law , the Vail not taken away . He is a Jew in spirit , who alone can see The use of the Law in its proper degree , And only own Christ his Saviour to be . Rom. 2.28 , 29. To conclude this Head , and consider what 's said , Let the rigour of the Law make thee afraid ; Goe unto Christ , live Holy without delay , Secure thy Interest in Christ , 2 Pet. 3.1 . who is the way To Salvation ; 'till hast by Faith so done Art under the Law , therefore to Christ run By Faith , God is not pleas'd in any but 's Son ? 'Till in Christ art under the Law , Mat. 17.4 . yea worse , Under it as a Covenant of Works , a fearful Curse ; Therefore to Christ by Faith have recourse . God will render all according to their deed . Rouse Man , Rev. 20.13 . don't false Presumption breed : Do according to the Law , but rest on none For Salvation , Joh. 14.6 . but on Christ alone .
SECT. XVII . THus , Reader , I have lead thee by the hand Concerning the Law , as I at present understand ; Wherein thou may'st understand and see The use of the Law in its proper degree . Obj. But some may Object , and say unto me , Don't you say that Heaven by Christ is free , Yet something must be done by we ? Sol. Nothing done in way of Merit , God is just ; Is forsaking sin doing ? Rev. 15.3 . would'st live in thy Lust ? By Grace are sav'd in point of Justification , Gal. 5.16 . Yet without Holiness no ground for Salvation : 1 Pet. 2.11 . Are not Justified by Works we have done , Heb. 12.14 . Justification is by the Merits of the Son. Tit. 3.5 . God's giving , Man's labouring don 't sever , Free-grace and full Duty go together ; 2 Pet. 1.5 , 6 , 7. They are not an inconsistent station , Free-grace , full Duty work out Salvation , With diligence , with fear and trembling : Phil. 2.12 . Be in earnest with God , cast off dissembling . That Grace which bringeth to us Salvation , Tit. 2.11 , 12. Teacheth us to deny in our station All ungodliness in our Conversation , To live soberly and godly , by renovation ; Here 's the fruit of Christ's purchase clear , Tit. 2.14 . Which in the Scriptures doth full appear . Duties are a Believers Priviledge by Christ , Not to neglect Duties when we list . By Duties we honour God , in Scripture see , I will honour those that honour me . 1 Sam. 2.30 . A fruit-bearing Christian in his station Is a God-glorifying Creature in 's generation . Joh. 15.8 . A Believer Prays , Father , glorifie me , That thy poor Creature may glorifie thee ; For what Comfort unto us when try'd , To hear and talk how Christ hath dy'd ? To hear the glorious Liberty Sons of God Shall have by Christ's Redemption , Rom. 8.21 . yet so odd In our lives , wicked as in the land of Nod ! Gen. 4.16 . What 's Redemption to any Natural Man ? 'Till Converted , no more than to an American . Mat. 18.3 . If we hear the Gospel as we hear a Libel , What the better ? if not live the Bible . Don't think because live on Gospel-ground , Gal. 5.13 . Because its Voice in our Ears doth sound ; This don't exempt from rigour of the Law , Jam. 1.22 . And entitle to Christ , if thou wilt know ; 2 Pet. 2.14 , 15 , 19. Grace must operate in life as seed sown , Mar. 4.26 , 27 , 28. By its growth what sort 't is is well known . Is Grace in thee from one degree full grown ? Christ came , Joh. 1.11 . was not received by his own ; Were they better for it ? No , not a jot ; No more wilt thou , if thou dost not Bring Faith's fruit in thy Conversation ; Mat. 3.8 . Without Holiness how canst prove renovation ? If we hear the Gospel Preached frequently , What the better if not depart from Iniquity ? Luk. 13.26 , 27. If Christ pass by our Hearts in the Word , Yet if not with Zacheus to Christ accord , Will not come down the presumptuous Tree Of our Self-conceit , & 19.6 . then how can we Expect Christ should come in that degree To sup and lodge with us , Rev. 3.20 . if not free To entertain Christ ? then let 's for shame No longer be Christians only in Name ; Let 's rest in outward Priviledges no more , John 8.39 . Let 's make haste , like Zacheus , open the door Of our Hearts to Christ , if expect Salvation , Tender Christ Obedience in Conversation , Heb. 5.9 . Without it the greater Condemnation . Luk. 10.14 .
SECT. XVIII . THE way of Sin and Prophaneness , Hell's road , Is the broad way , Mat. 7.13 , 14. and the all-a-mode Of the World , every son of Belial rides This road , but there 's another way divides , Which is call'd Morality , and herein It may be call'd also Legality , a great sin : To rest in Duties done without saving Faith , Hath been the destruction of thousands , Rom. 10.2 . saith Scripture , such baseness in Men's Hearts lurks , The Galathians turn'd to the Covenant of Works ; Soon after Paul had Preached Free-grace , Gal. 1.6 . They that Doctrine did wickedly deface : The Galathians had Preaching Seducers , cry'd By Works they were to be Justifi'd : And most Men and Women in their station Prone to this sin ever since the Creation . & 2.4 . 'T is natural unto most Men , Micah 2.10 how prone To rest in doing , are we every one ! Do this and live , is in most Mens Eye , From Adam , and unto all his Posterity : Luke 17.10 . Men look for Righteousness and acceptation More in Duties , than by Christs Mediation : Rom. 4.14 . More for the Precept in their Generation , Heb. 4.1 . Than in Eying the Promise of Salvation . Mans Eye is so on doing , by sin deprav'd Are we , What shall I do to be sav'd ? Acts 16 , 30. Said the Jaylor ; we doing , so much respect , That in doing , we Faith in Christ neglect ; So in doing , make Christ of no effect . The Pharisee said , I do so and so , in 's Station , Luk. 18.11 , 12. His Eye on doing , not on Christ for Salvation . To rest on Ordinances is no strange news , Justify'd by doing , is the sin of the Jews : They expect life , in Obedience to the Law ; John 8.5 . So Christ for Salvation , they reject , know , This was , and is their Error , and Mistake , Gal. 3.10 . & 4.4 , 5. Let no Professor , of 's Duties Saviours make . Few under Ordinances , see themselves undone , But still on in a road of Duties run , See little need of Jesus Christ the Son. Are not poor in spirit , tho the Scriptures say , Luke 1.53 . The rich , the full are sent empty away : 'T is the poor , the lost , the undone , the blind , That Christ saves , as in Scripture find . Those that feel themselves dead , as to life Spiritual , with Corruptions still in strife ; What a litter , and nest of sin lies in Heart , Isa. 6.5 . Vile , base , such Expressions they impart ! The Soul convinc'd of every sinful thought , Which conceited Man is not easily brought Unto , Conviction goes before Conversion , Joh. 16.8 . Ordinarily , Scripture makes good this Assertion . Sin appears to the Soul exceeding sinful , Rom. 7.13 . To do this , the Spirit gives many a pull . To bring to Christ , is the Spirits Intention , Mat. 18.11 . Man must be lost in his own Apprehension : Which Man is not easily brought to see , Till the Spirit convince Man of 's miserie By sin , which he hath committed against God , So trembles , for fear of his eternal Rod : Then longs for Peace and Reconciliation With God , Psal. 84.2 . through Christ , as his Salvation , Which is the greatst happiness in his Station : & 119.174 . And prays for this blessing with tears , Psal. 6.6 . As a Man sentenc'd to Death , is full of fears , Doth pray , Heb. 12.17 . sigh , and mourn , and cry , For fear he should perish eternally : Which Man is not easily won to , so odd Is Man by sin , Col. 1.21 . naturally , an Enemy to God. The Spirit doth break for sin , the Heart , Before he binds it up , as Scripture impart : First wounds the Soul , before he heals , Humbles the Soul for sin , Scripture reveals . Softens the Heart , and makes it recant From sin , Zech. 7.13 . which is compar'd to an Adamant . Must drink of the Waters of Marahs station , Psal. 126.5 , 6. Before canst drink of the Well of Consolation : Must sow in Tears , sorrow must annoy , Before we can reap a harvest of Joy. We must go into the House of Mourning , We must repent , and from sin be turning : The spirit of heaviness will take hold On us , Isa. 61.3 . for sin , if in sin we are bold .
SECT. XIX . Consider then , what hath been spoken , Hath thy hard Heart from sin bin broken ? 2 Tim. 1.6 . What godly Contrition , in thee is found , For sinning against God , in Scripture ground ? Hast gone mourning for sin all the day , For dishonouring God without delay ? Not a legal sorrow , as my lines do say , But godly sorrow , in an Evangelical way . Then in all duties exalt Christ by Faith , 2 Cor. 5.10 . Without which , all is sin , Scripture saith . Rom. 14.23 . Hunger and thirst for more Acquaintance , With Christ , by Faith , and true Repentance . Desire to love Christ , delight in Union With Jesus Christ , by holy Communion : That in godly sincerity we may be found , Not like the stony or thorny ground . Mat. 13.7 . Hear Sermons , to carry us to Christ , pray The Word be not like seed fell by the way . Use Duties as Noahs Dove did her wing , vers. 4. Act by Faith on Christ , in every thing . The Dove us'd her wings , Gen. 8.11 . as a means or way To the ; Ark to use Ordinances , don't delay As the means or way to Christ , who can Make duties acceptable , Eph. 1.6 . and also the Man To be sav'd , by Ordinances , dont cherish Such thoughts , this is a wicked flourish , Yet without doing duties thou wilt perish . 2 Tim. 1 9. Duties are Evidences of our Salvation , Use Ordinances , to that end , in thy Generation : Tho they do not save Man as is crav'd , Yet they accompany such as are sav'd . 'T is the first part of our Redemption , A People zealous , without exemption Of good works , in Scripture 't is plain , Tit. 12 4. And shall Chists Blood be shed in vain ? 'T is dreadful to fall into eternal pain . Consider this seriously , and it regard , 'T is written for them who look Sion-ward : That they would answer the end Of Ordinances , 1 Cor. 15.2 . not only Profession pretend Without its fruits in life , on Christ depend For Salvation , it will thy life amend . Mat. 25.2 . In resting in Ordinances don't offend , But act by Faith in Duties to the end . The Field of duties , is the worst ground For any to miscarry , Heb: 11.6 . Oh don't be found Only a Professor ! dread the Devils Pound ; To destroy Souls , Satan still goes round : Luke 10.13 , 14 15. To sow his Tares in Mens Hearts , of extreams , Either to neglect duty , like Men in Dreams ; Acts 5.3 . Or to rest on Ordinances , 't is very plain ; Therefore take heed , I say once again : There are but two ways , mind them well , Sin , and Duty rested in , lead unto Hell. Many pretend Faith , Jam. 2.14.20 . verses . but have no Works ; Others Works , but no Faith , such baseness lurks In many Men , some pretend Zeal for God , Yet not just in their dealing , Gal. 5.6 . in life so odd : Others just in their dealing , 1 , Thes. 1.3 . yet have no Seal For God , so perish , as Scriptures reveal . To conclude this head , Reader , in love mind , Both to profess , Heb. 4.14 . and practise , be inclin'd . To do duty don't delay , but rest on none For Salvation , & 10.23 . but on Jesus Christ alone .
SECT. XX. OF resting in Ordinances , Luke 2.19 . let us take care , 'T is not what Man says unto the Ear ; But what Gods Spirit speaks to the Heart , T is the Spirits Operation makes us depart From sin , Isa. 30.21 . 't is the voice behind you , That turns , converts , and Hearts renew . The Angels stirring the Water did only cure , John 5.14 . Desire and long for Ordinances pure : When we have Ordinances , and them enjoy , Use them as Ordinances , else will destroy . Many follow a Road of Ordinances , Ezek. 33.31 . herein What foot-way hath Christs Spirit within ? What heavenly influence , what intercourse Betwixt God and our Souls ? Gal. 6.45 . what remorse For our barrenness under the means of Grace ? Do our Souls thrive in holiness , sin deface In Heart , what immediate dispensation From Christ , doth the Spirit work Renovation ? What stirring the water under Ordinances , In Grace and Holiness , 2 Pet. 3.18 . hast spiritual advances ? Man may preach well , Man may afford , Many good words , when none from the Lord . Man may be very earnest , Isa. 48.17 . and active In preaching the Word , do our Souls thrive ? You have mediate favours cast on you , 'T is mediate favours the Soul renew . God is pleas'd to give us a toleration , Free liberty by the King , in all the Nation : Pray for a blessing , on the means in thy Station , That the means of Grace may work Renovation : 'T is a mercy to have good Mens Preaching ; Col. 2.12 . 'T is the mercy to have the Spirits teaching . The best preaching of Men will be found , Like good seed cast into bad ground , Without the Spirits Operation doth abound . The Law was written with Gods own hand , Exod. 31.15 . And dispens'd as his Will and Command ; Which was Israels great favour , in part Is the Law , by Gods Spirit written on our Heart . The most of the World are spiritually dead 1 John 5.19 . Under Ordinances , few fed with Childrens bread . Most of the World under Ordinances go to Hell , 2 Tim. 3.5 . Under a form of godliness , think all well ; Yet live in sin , like Esau in his Dottage , Slight Heaven , so may enjoy earthly Pottage : Are contented , like Beasts of the Field , With corporal things , as Providence yield To support such a corporal being , contented , alas , With outward things , as a Beast with Grass ! Banished from Gods presence , was Cains Curse ; Gen. 4.16 . Lye under Ordinances , not thrive ! nothing worse . What is it for a form of godliness to accord , When we are not reform'd by the Word . No Communion between us and the Lord , This is dreadful , as the Scriptures record : 2 Pet. 2.21 . But when the Spirit sets the Soul free , It prays with Jacob , Jehovah bless me : Yea , by Faith strives and struggles so ; Least thou bless me , I will not let thee go . Gen. 32.26 . Here lyes Mans happiness , in Communion With God , when Christ and Soul one in Union . Joh. 17.21 . When a sence of pardon comes by preaching , Then we thrive by Ordinances teaching . What experimental Knowledge , what Faith , What divine Resolution , Josh. 24.15 . as Scripture saith ? What droppings from Heaven on thy Soul , Doth the Word touch us like a burning Coal ? Jer. 23.29 . That 's preaching , brings God and Soul together , That a Christian hears , Jam. 1.25 . and does for ever In his Conversation , from sin doth sever . Therefore of Heavens hope , let none talk , Except according to Scripture Rule walk . Jer. 7.23 . I will put my Spirit in you , saith the Lord , To cause you to walk according to the Word : Ezek. 11.19 ▪ 20. Not that we should wickedness maintain ; Let not drunkenness , and uncleanness reign , Nor walk you after the way of Cain . A way of cruelty and malice don't regard , Gen. 4.8 . Nor run greedily , Balaams way for reward . A way of Covetousness , Numb . 22. and unlawful gain ; This is against the Holy Scripture plain .
SECT. XXI . UNderstand then , 2 Pet. 1.12 . my meaning clear , Hear and practise in life , let it appear That the Ordinances of God to thee are dear , By loving his Ministers in holy fear . Love good Men , let your Hearts be bent To hear those whom God hath sent . Rom. 10.15 . Hear those , whom you believe God doth hear , And according in life , live with fear . Honour a good Minister , for his works sake ; Let him from thee some supply partake , Heb. 13.16 , 17. According to thy Ability , Luke . 10.12 . with thy Heart , Love such , as in sincerity the Gospel impart : Who live , as well as preach the Gospel smart , Pray for such , in love , as my lines impart , That God would give Pastors after 's own Heart : Such God doth most bless in their Station , And follows their labours in their Generation With his holy Spirits assisting Operation . Take heed whom you hear , in Scripture asserted , Mar. 4.24 . By carnal , ungodly Ministers , few Converted . How can it be , when Drunkards in station , They not Converted , yet preach Renovation ? So like Priests , like People , in Conversation , Hos. 4.9 . You may see it plain in our Nation . Many Priests , Swear , Whore , like drunken Elves , Preach Conversion , yet never converted themselves : Yet these Priests , by Men , fit for the Ministry , If they smell ( tho wicked ) of an University : Not that despise learning , I know well , Paul was brought up at the feet of Gamaliel . Act. 22.3 . But when Priests their learning do deface , By Whoring , Drunkenness , Covetousness , so base Are most Priests , in their priestly race , Which argues , the Priests have little Grace . For they preach against those things by Name , Rom. 2.21 . to the 24 vers . Yet Priests themselves practise the very same , Which to Priests learning , methinks is shame . Yet in their learning Priests still confide , And a Man gifted by the Spirit , can't abide : Mat. 4.18 , 21. As tho God could not make a Fisher-man as able As the great'st Doctor among the Rabble : The learn'd Doctors of the Law , by pride To have Christ preach , could not abide : Because Christ was a Carpenters Son , Mar. 6.3 . And not bred as their pride did run , In the learning of the Scribes , so deem'd ; The learning of a Sott , is more than grace esteem'd In our days , most are their Souls deceiver , Despise Gods Grace in Man , Jam. 1.17 . who is the giver Of all Grace , can make a Comber or Weaver To preach the Gospel-mysteries , as well As those brought up at the feet of Gamaliel . The learn'd Scribes and Pharisees , were those Who did our Saviour Christ most oppose . Mat. 27.1 . The learning of unregenerate Men , do lay Most opposition to Christs Interest to this day . But not to inlarge here , I would be understood , That learning , if not abus'd , is very good . Scholastical learning , and supernatural together , How good , when for Christ joyn as Brother . Some such Ministers we have by Grace , Such I honour in their Christian Race : Prize such , but consider what doth follow ; Idolize not Paul , 1 Cor. 3.5 , 6. Cephas , nor Apollo . Tho very good Men in their Generation , Look beyond Mens parts , the Spirits Operation : Tho they preach well , our duties pressing , Yet 't is God by 's Spirit , gives the blessing . Paul may plant , vers. 7. Apollo may water peace , But 't is God that must Grace increase . Elisha's Servant , his Masters staff did lay On the dead Child , 2 Kings 4.29 . to the 34. vers . as commanded , and say The child is not awake , hath no life , Till Elisha came to revive the Shunamites Wife . So 't is with godly Ministers , tho they impart Gods message , Job 23.21 . yet God must strike the Heart : Before a dead Soul can be rais'd from sin To the life of Grace and Holiness , Prov. 16.1 . herein Don't rest on outward performances done , Like most , Rev. 3.1.15 , 16 but by Faith on Christ the Son. To hear good Ministers , do you accord , And pray for Gods blessing on the Word : This is the ordinary way , Scripture saith , Hearing of the Word preached , Rom. 10.17 . worketh Faith. Therefore in love , let thy Heart be bent To hear those , whom you think God hath sent To injoy Ordinances , Mat. 5.6 . don't delay , rest on none For salvation , but on Christ alone . Mans happiness being in Christ compleat : 2 Pet. 1.15 . This point , Reader , I can't too oft repeat .
SECT. XXII . ALL this while , my lines are you greeting , Tells you , Jam. 1.22 . rest not in meer going to Meeting . Not that I am against Meetings , don't mistake , But I praise God , Psal. 8.4 . that of them I did partake . Understand then what is my earnest suit , According to what you hear , bring forth fruit . Profession without Practice is like the Figg-tree , Mat. 21.19 . Leaves , no Fruit , therefore no fruit on thee Shall grow ; take heed what you hear do , Then the God of Peace shall be with you . Mind the Figg-trees doom , Phil. 4.9 . you have been invited With many Sermons , Oh be to Christ united ! Lest Christ resolve of 's Supper shall not tast ; Let not so many good Sermons be in wast : 'T is not said they shall not hear at last , But of his Supper they shall never tast . You may sit under Ordinances , them enjoy , Luke 14.24 . Yet if not profit by them will us destroy : What though you hear many a good Sermon Heb. 4.1 , 2. Drop on you , as from the Hill of Hermon , But how doth it work ? do we thrive In Grace and Holiness ? art spiritual alive ? If not savour of life , 't is the savour of death , 2 Cor. 2.16 . Try thy Heart then whiles thou hast breath : For if dost not thrive by the Word , it hath This written on it , thou art design'd for Wrath. Isa. 6.9 , 10. Consider well of it , fear and tremble , With God and thy Soul no longer dissemble . Live according to Scripture , don't pretend Profession , and not Practice , this will end In Misery ; nay , the greater thy Condemnation , Luke 12.47 . If improve not Mercy in thy generation . Consider this , 't is dreadful , to let thee see The danger ; shall be more tolerable in degree Of Punishment , for a Heathen than for thee . & 10.13 , 14 , 15 Then live Holy , let not life be so odd , But in all thou dost eye the glory of God : 1 Cor. 10.31 . In buying and selling do as art able Thy Duty to God and Man in both Table : Eccl. 5.2 . Let words be few , Mat. 12.37 . such may minister Grace In thy generation , don't God's Image deface ; Eph. 4.29 . In all actions God's glory be thy end , Then in all thy Life thou wilt not offend : Jer. 9.23 , 24. Converse more and more with God in Heart , The only way for sin and thee to part : Psal. 77.12 . When about thy business in thy Vocation , & 104.34 . May'st Converse with God by holy Ejaculation . Live in the exercise of Holiness and Grace , 1 Tim. 4.15 . Run the way of God's Precepts , sin deface : If hast wronged any , before thy dissolution , If able , Psal. 119.31 . with Zacheus , make restitution ; Don't be with shadows of Religion affected , When the substance in thy life is neglected ; Heb. 2.1 , 2 , 3. It turneth Mercies , Priviledges , into a Curse , When we have them , Mal. 2.2 . and in sin grow worse . Improve the Means of Grace for your Souls , Let the Word take impression like burning Coals . Jer. 23.29 . Now there 's a Toleration , labour to understand God's meaning , prize the Mercy , 't is his hand That over-rules all the Rulers in the land : Psal. 82.1 . Whatever is intended by all their Plods , The Lord Jehovah over-rules all the gods . & 86.8 . Oh improve this Priviledge , and admire Free-Grace , Psal. 115.1 . turn to God with Praise and Prayer : So Profess , so do in way of your Function , Take God in Christ , Heb. 12.1 . Faith , Love , all in conjunction . Though Christ's satisfaction not our Sanctification , Gal. 5.6 . Be the ground of Justification and Salvation , Yet where he 's Justification he 's Sanctification ; 1 Cor. 1.30 . Consider it , without Holiness no Salvation . External Profession without Soul-renovation , Heb. 12.14 . Will never partake of eternal Consolation . Consider this , Isa. 44.18 . if hast any spiritual sight , They are not fancies , but of Soul-weight .
SECT. XXIII . COnsider these things , my lines do mount , To tell thee for reading must give an account ; Luke 16.2 . Though dead lines without the Spirit 's operation , Rom. 14.12 . 'T is thy Duty to Pray in thy generation ; Which thou may'st see before in this Book , Col. 2.12 . If in love you will retreat and look . To help thee in love I will use this art , Shoote one Arrow more at thy Heart : Deut. 11 16. For thy Conversion I 'd not leave one stone Unturn'd , then don't thy self let sin alone . First , be well acquainted with thy Heart , 'T is the best Advice to thee I can impart ; For if art to thy own Heart a stranger , Sure of thy Salvation thou art in danger . 1 John 3.20 . Don't say , hast been qualifi'd at School : Can trust my Heart , if so thou art a Fool. Yet many in this Conceit do rest , Prov. 28.26 . Say they , no matter , my Heart 's good 's the best , I never was in all my life for change , Jer. 17.9 . Must be born again , to most seems strange ; John 3.9 . How can't be , of this take a word before Concerning Conversion , hereafter say more . Don't so much consider God's dispensation In the World , as thy own Hearts renovation ; Ezek. 18.31 . This is of absolute necessity to Salvation , More than God's Providences in the Nation : John 3.3 . For what wil't avail , if all were well In the World , thou in the way to Hell ? 1 Sam. 16.7 . If all were Converted , which would be well , Yet if sin and Satan in thy Heart dwell , Act. 5.3 . What advantage , consider , would it be To you ? though there 's a God , what 's that to thee , If not thy God by a particular Application ? Joh. 20.28 . What the better , if not God of thy Salvation ? What though Jesus Christ for Sinners dy'd , What the better , if art by Christ deny'd ? So wilt , if in Heart thou sin regard , Psal. 66.18 . I know you not , Depart ; here 's thy Reward . Therefore try thy Heart , Mat. 7.23 . for fear it cheat Thee of Salvation , its deceit is so great : The Motions of thy Heart , observe them well , Every motion is a step towards Heaven or Hell. 2 Cor. 13.5 . If Motions of thy Heart be steps to Eternity , Take heed lest they come actions of Iniquity . Know thy Heart , if in the World high or low , By outward Dispensation canst not know Eccl. 9.1 . God's love or hatred ; then whilst hath breath Of thy Heart are Motions of life and death . Prov. 4.23 . If thou art poor , if not poor in spirit , Not see thy need of Christ , Mat. 9.12 . shalt not inherit : If art rich in the World , 't is all one , Without thy Heart purged from sin , undone : None are sav'd by outward Dispensation , But according to the Spirit 's operation In Heart inward , 2 Cor. 1.21 , 22. real Regeneration . What 's God doing in the little World within Thy Heart ? Joh. 16.8 . doth the Spirit Convince of sin ? Observe what reforming Work he 's doing In thee ; Is the Spirit thy Heart renewing ? Is the Spirit thy sins and lusts subduing ? Rom. 12.2 . What say'st Man ? or art like the most ; Or as those who never heard of a Holy Ghost ? Acts 19.2 . 'T is Heart-work , and hard work for thee , As before if thou consider mayst see . Prove thy Heart , then shalt thou rejoyce In Heart , Gal. 6.4 . and not in anothers Voice . Converse more with God in Heart , That 's the way for sin and thee to part . Is Christ in thee the hope of Glory ? Col. 1.27 . then Look to thy Heart , I say once agen . Try the spirits , 1 John 4.1 . Gods Spirit is a sanctifier , Pray for the Spirit , he will work desire . Tell thee of Righteousness , Dan. 9.21 , 22. Judgment to come ; Don't quench his motions , 't will put him from His work in thy Heart ; don't be so evil To quench God's Spirit , 1 Thes. 5.19 . and please the Devil ; For Satans spirit is all sins Fomenter , Tempts to sin , 1 Joh. 3.8 . then for sin a Tormenter . God's Spirit sanctifies , then works Consolation , Satan's spirit tempts to sin for desolation . 1 Pèt. 1.2 . Consider this well , to conclude this head , Remember , 1 King. 22.22 . Meditate in Heart what 's said ; Don't be a stranger to thy Hearts renovation , 'T is of absolute necessity to thy salvation . Mat. 18.3 .
SECT. XXIV . FOR to fasten this Nail on thy Heart , Consider farther what my lines impart ; 2 Tim. 2.14 . I am in earnest , and will do all I can For Conversion of any Unconverted Man . And in my Walk methinks I spye A righteous Moral Man as I pass by . Luke 18.11 . Obj. Who can spot me , say black is my eye ? I wrong no Man in all my Life , not I , Am no Drunkard , why should I fear to dye ? Sol. Only Morally Righteous is a sad Condition , For the whole need not the Physitian . Christ dyed not for the whole but sick , Mat. 9.12 . Those sin hath wounded to the quick . Moral Righteousness is desirable and good , Yet if not evangelical righteous , 2 Pet. 1.4 , to the 7th . v. like a flood Will destroy us , yet thousands remain In this state , if gross sins they refrain , Count all well , this thousands hath slain . Moral Righteousness is such a qualification As leads a Man to do to others in 's station , Heb. 11.6 . As would be done to in his generation , A rectitude of spirit to Men , yet no renovation : Such was Abimelech of old in his Life , When took unto himself Abraham's Wife ; Gen. 26.9 , 10 , 11. Such a moral righteous Man was he That came to Christ , no sin could see , Mat. 19.20 . Gave to all their due , saith Scripture-truth , Had kept the Precepts from his Youth ; Liv'd orderly among his Neighbours , he Judg'd himself so good as need to be , Yet but in a sad Condition for salvation , When Christ told of a spiritual qualification . Vers. 22. Moral Righteousness in its highest race , Is but in moral Men restraining-Grace ; Which otherways would be to Man so odd , As he is inwardly an Hypocrite to God. This for truth in Abimilech you may see , I withheld thee from sining against me ; Gen. 20.6 . Yet many say I was never so in my life , Whoremaster , Swearer , no such sin was rife In me ; shall I say what I think is true ? That Morality hath destroy'd as great a Crew Mar. 12.34 . As Prophaneness ; take heed don't so by you : This was the Pharisees conceit , Mar. 10.20 . they knew What was to be morally righteous , but few Of them came to Christ as lost and undone , They were righteous in themselves , Luk. 18.21 . they run In self-conceit , so no need of Christ the Son , Nor of his Righteousness ; Mat. 21.31 . that Christ told Them , Publicans , Harlots , Heaven did hold Before them , not that Publicans , Harlots bold , Still living in sin shall ever enjoy Heaven Without Repentance , reformation , not forgiven . He that in a moral Righteousness doth rest , John 3.36 . And all prophane Wretches think it best To live in sin , neither shall receive Salvation ; But Pharisee and Publican shall to desolation . Rest not in a moral Righteousness , if so , undone , Without Christ's white Rayment , Rev. 3.18 . to him run , God is not pleas'd with any but in 's Son , Oh then know thy Heart , Mat. 17.5 . thou must be lost In thy own thoughts , thy Salvation cost Christ's blood ; & 18.11 . go to Christ , he can withstand God's Wrath , and bring thee to Canaan's land . Remember this , that without Regeneration , Moral Righteousness can't attain Salvation . Mat. 18.3 . Dread self-righteousness , I must it double , Don't be deceived , thy first had trouble , More the New-birth , John 3.6 . don't think it strange , There must be a thorough real Heart-change . God's power appears in making the Sun In the Firmament , Psal. 8.3 . his glorious Power run In making all things , Moon and Stars , But in making a New Creature many Jarrs The Spirit hath with our Hearts , before it yield , And from the strong Man win the Field . Luk. 11.21 , 22. God spake the word , all things were made new , Gen. 1.14 , 15. But to make a New Creature hath more to do , Than in making the World , more opposition By Sin and Satan , such is Mans undone Condition ; How few return unto God by holy Contrition Tremble , 't is not easie matter to be New-born , Luk. 17.17 , 18. By Nature Satan's Captive , 'till by force torn : Satan keeps possession of all Hearts by Nature , 'Till Christ by 's Spirit make his departure . Act. 26.18 .
SECT. XXV . TO know how 't is with thy Soul don't scorn , Mat. 15.19 . Examine thy Heart , wilt see cause to mourn , And cry to God , Do thou my Heart turn Unto thee , from sins dominion , Psal. 80.3 . set me free From Satan's bondage , to live unto thee : Thus wilt sigh , with many groans , Rom. 8.21 . Conversion is compar'd to broken bones , Psal. 51.8 , 17. Many a bitter Pang with sorrowful moans : Therefore if try thy Heart , Act. 9.4 , 6. thou mayst know Whether art truly Converted , Yea or No. All Men and Women by Nature born so odd Rom. 5.10 . Into the World , till Converted , enemies to God. Original sin in Man did God's Image deface Col. 1.21 . In all Jew and Gentile , want Christ's Free-grace . Rom. 3.9 , 10. Then try thy Heart how the Cause doth stand Betwixt God and thy Soul , eye God's Command : & 10.12 . 'T is very dreadful to fall into his hand Heb. 10.31 . Without Christ , and thy Souls renovation . Hast no ground in Scripture for salvation : Acts 3.19 . A moral Man is but an out-side Holy Man , Without Evangelical Righteousness sav'd none can . Moral Righteousness is but close Hypocrisie , Mat. 23.27 , 28. Labour to know God in Christ in sincerity : Moral Righteousness is like a counterfeit Ring , Makes a fair show , but yet some other thing . Yet don't mistake , as though moral Virtues I deny'd , This is to have what I have said misapply'd : Where Grace is , 2 Pet. 1.5 , 6 , 7. Mat. 19.20 , 22. Moral Virtues are also , Yet Moral Virtues are where Grace don't go . Take heed of Hypocrisie , do as art able , Thy Duty to God and Man in both Table . Live righteously and godly , Verse 6. don't part What God joyns , let God have thy Heart : Righteously relates to a Moral qualification , Tit. 2.12 . Godly relates to Piety and Sanctification ; Joyn Piety to God and Morality together , For where Grace is Moral Virtues don't sever . Then in a Moral Righteousness don't rest , Must be Converted , Joh. 3.3 , 5 , 6. Eph. 2.8 . born again , if bless'd , Must have Grace , if ever of Heaven possess'd . How many in the World counted honest Men , Yet never know what 't is to be born agen ? Many in their lives very honest and just , Will wrong none , this is good , but don't trust In this : Moral Virtues are desirable , yet must Be renewed in Heart before turn to dust . Rom. 12.2 . Moral Virtues are commendable in Man , Eph. 4.23 . To be Sober , 2 Cor. 10.18 . Chast , Prudent , yet none can Commend us to God without Grace in Heart , Without Christ can't be sav'd , Rom. 14.23 . I will declar 't , Therefore from self-righteousness depart . Luke 9.23 . Prove thy Heart , whether hast Grace or no , Grace that qualifies for glory , Gal. 6.4 . and so Be made meet for Communion with God Here , Col. 1.12 . and hereafter with Christ , where 's rod Will be turn'd into Love , Mat. 25.21 . Felicity and Joy , That for ever nothing shall thee annoy . Consider what 's said , Deut. 32.29 . I wish as a Friend , Oh were you wise to mind your latter end .
SECT. XXVI . Reader , do these things please thy Palate ? Mat. 22.5 . These are not Jiggs , as in a Poet's Ballad . Here may'st see what 's plainly asserted , The dangerous case of all unconverted ; Then strive to enter into the strait Gate , Mat. 7.13 , 14. If not converted before Death , then too late : No Repentance , no believing in the Grave , Eccl. 9.10 . In order to Salvation ; therefore I crave Thy consideration ; as my Name is HVSNANCE , I would do something God's Glory to advance : They are my dying words for ought I know , Heb. 3.13 . As God freely gives feed , so will I sow . My Tallent . God hath given , I will not hide ; Mat. 25. v. 18 , 29. But for my Maker's Glory shall be employ'd : Then consider and observe , I am free To ask thee some Questions , two or three . How cam'st to be a Christian ? A Question blunt , Act. 11.26 . To answer it right , will put thee astunt . Well , let us hear then what thou canst say , Act 26.28 . And make the best then of thy Play. I was baptiz'd a Christian , 1 Cor. 7.19 . my Place and Station Was among such ; bred in such a Nation ; My Friends were so , and so my Education : Besides , I believe the Christian Profession . Jam. 2.19 . Doth this make thee a Christian ? Art short ; A Turk by Education can plead so for 't . Well then , if wilt hearken unto my Verse , It may the truth of it to thee rehearse ; It may make thee understand , and know Christian Religion is not a thing so low , Mat. 16.24 . Nor Salvation so easie , at so cheap a rate As many Men in the World would hav 't , Mar. 8.36 . Must enter thy Soul , by a spiritual Frame : Art a new Creature ? Or art still the same ? 2 Cor. 5.17 . Then art no Christian , tho' thou profess it ; Must be born again , Life will express it . Joh 3.3 . The whole constitution must be renew'd , Flesh to be mortify'd , Sin to be subdu'd , Rom. 8.13 . Must be a change , Col. 3.5 . self must be denied ; Yea , Gal. 6.14 . and the World to be crucify'd . Sure , all this is not a small matter ; Only a Christian in Name , don't flatter Thy self in an almost Christian's Suit : Act. 26.28 . The Life of a Christian lies in its Fruit , In Obedience to God , without Dispute . Inward and outward Man , 't is only this , Christian Godliness is God likeness . Don't live in Sin , yet Christian pretend , For a Man's Life , Phil. 3.19 . foretells his end : Life is an expression of the Soul's frame , By Nature wicked , art still the same ? Then for Heaven can'st lay no claim , Without Holiness be in thy aim . Heb. 12.14 . See what Paul saith , 't is not I make it , Being cloathed upon , 2 Cor. 5.3 . we be not found naked Of Grace and Holiness , in heart hast tried Thy need of Christ , Mat. 8.2 . by Faith applied , Bewing thy Soul in obedience to his Law Heartily , Heb 5 9. as expect'st God should Mercy show ? He hath this hope , 2 Cor. 10.5 . doth himself purifie , As he names Christ , departs from Iniquity ; Without Faith can'st not be saved , 1 Joh 3.3 . don't venture Thy Soul , Heb 11.6 . not all say Lord shall enter . Rest not with the Name Christian , Mat. 25.11 . know What 's a Name to live , and dead in Law ; Canst not any Evidence for Salvation show ? Rev. 3.1 . What Life a Man lives , doth plainly tell Wh●ther he belongs to Heaven or Hell. A Man wicked in his earthly Race , You may see Hell in that Man's Face . When Hell opens in a Man's Conversation , He is in the broad way to dissolation . Mat. 7.13 . Christ died , not only to free Damnation , But also to free from a sinful Conversation . Tit. 2.14 . Don't live in Sin , cast not thy self away , Christ is Author of Salvation to them obey : Heb 5.9 . Mind this , I am in earnest to let thee see , As is thy Seed time , Psal. 126.6 . such thy Harvest be : Remember't , rouse , in false hopes don't sleep , Gal. 6.7 . Whatsoever Man soweth , he shall reap .
SECT. XXVII . Having thus far proceeded in our way , 2 Pet. 3.1 , 2. Consider farther , for I have more to say , Which may be an use of Application , A Branch of which is farther Examination . Art under Satan's Power ? Or doth the Spirit Work Sanctification , only Saints inherit ; Col. 1.12 , 13. Tho' Saints be now derided ; yet when try'd , None shall be sav'd without sanctify'd . Divine Power makes Partakers of Divine Nature , 1 Pet. 1.2 . Doth Faith in Christ , thy Soul manure ? 2 Pet. 1.4 . Speak Man , don't hide Sin like a foolish Elf ? Rom. 6.12.16 . Put the Question thus unto thy self . Have I received Christ , as being to rule me ? Am I from Sins commanding Power free ? Have I no allowed , lov'd Sin in me ? If not , a happy Man or Woman art thee . Take heed , don't cheat thy self : Put to trial , Hast lived the Life of self-denial ? Mat. 18.3 . Hath the new Birth past on the plain ? Art Regenerate ? Hast been born again ? 1 Pet. 1.23 . Dost hate Sin , as sin ? hast any Acquaintance With Mortification and true Repentance ? Repentance is a change of Heart and Mind Rom. 8.13 . From that 's Evil , and to good inclin'd ; 'T is no Repentance , say , I am sorry for Sin , Ezek. 36.31 . Yet live in Sin , this long in the World been , Will not be put out of it till they die , Have Mercy cry , yet , workers of Iniquity . Mat. 7.22 , 23. Don't be deceived : Repentance is a higher lift , 'T is a supernatural Work , is God's Gift Act. 5.31 . Wrought by 's Spirit , then pray , Lord , give Repentance unto Life , let 's no longer live , An almost-Christian ; let 's be brought From a State of Sin , make my Heart sought , Job 23.16 . That I may be his , who hath me bought . 1 Cor. 6.20 . Let 's not have worldly Sorrow , that 's Death ; 2 Cor. 7.10 . But godly Sorrow while I have Breath . Work Holiness in my Heart before I die , So live to praise thy holy Majesty : These things are of serious consideration , Without Regeneration , Joh. 3.7 . no Salvation .
SECT. XXVIII . Here 's another branch of Examination , 2 Tim. 1.6 . Whereby to know our real Renovation . Men are known to what Nation they belong , By their Language , Expression of the Tongue . Doth thy life speak Canaan , Numb. 13.23 . describe the Land ? Hast been there ? Did'st bring Grapes in hand ? Doth thy life speak plain , and not lowre . As tho' thou hast eaten Grapes are sowre ? Ezek 13 2. Speak , Man ; Doth thy life say plain ? From the Occasions of Sin , 1 Thes. 5.22 . dost refrain ? Is Garlick ( a state of sin ) to thee more worth , Prov. 23. v. 20 , 31. Than Milk , Honey , Grace and Holiness ? put forth From Egypt ( a state of Sin ) for fear thou fall In the Wilderness : Exod. 16.3 . Never enter Canaan at all . Fear the Anakims Sin , believe Scripture true , Many are call'd , Mat. 22.14 . but they are sav'd few , Of thousands Caleb , Gen 7.23 . and Joshua Son of Nun. Enter'd Canaan , take heed of Sin , or undone . Don't cheat thy Soul with a false nod Numb. 14. v. 37 , 38. Like most of the World : Fear Christ's Rod. All think themselves in the favour of God , Yet most in their lives , very wicked and odd . What Man alive , what Man's state so bad , Yet hopes for Heaven , Jer. 13. v. 25 , 26 , 27. when dies : 'T is sad When Men live in such wicked leaven Of Ignorance , yet count to go to Heaven : They their Souls in false hope still venture , Make Heaven a place of all Souls Centre : Most are with false hope so much depraved ; Yet Scripture saith , 1 Pet. 4.18 . the righteous scarcely saved ; That is , thorough many difficulties and fear , Where then shall the ungodly appear ? The broad way , saith Scripture , leads to Hell , And most go therein ; 1 Joh. 5.19 . Remember well And believe the Truth what Scriptures tell , Don't live in unbelief like old Israel . Why Israel did not enter Canaan , in chief , Was that great Sin of their unbelief . Let 's fear , Heb. 3.12 . to the end . lest there 's in us an evil heart Of unbelief , so from Egypt sin ●oth depart . From this root , Unbelief , the Fountain spring Doth flow in Men's lives , sin , that cursed thing , Heb 49 , 11. & 11.6 . Which did Men believe were such an evil Against God , their Souls , they 'd not please the Devil . All Satan's design is , to cause Men to sin ; Full of malice ever since his fall been : Job 1.7 . A roaring Lion , to destroy Souls , Zech. 3.1 . not that he Gets by Man's ruine ; 1 Pet. 5.8 . but envies that degree Of Happiness , which lost by 's Fall and Pride : Jude 6. So God , and Godliness Satan can't abide , Rev. 12.9 . Would have all from Godliness go aside : Then watch against Temptations to Sin ; Satan hath many ways , snares and ginn , 1 Tim. 3.7 . To catch Souls , and many hath destroyed in His infernal gulf , take heed of sin . Sin 's evil is so great , would us cheat Of Salvation , its malignancy is so great Against God : His ways , 't is such an Evil , Man hath no Companion in but the Devil ; 1 Joh. 3.8 . Other Creatures answer end of their Creation , Silly Man that should bring Damnation On thy self , love Devils Company so well , Hos. 13.9 . Sin with Satan here , and with him in Hell. Live in Sin , unbelief , this will be thy fare , If lov'st thy Soul , of sin take care . The Christian is a new Creature , I still cry , As we name Christ , let 's depart from Iniquity . 2 Tim. 2.19 .
SECT. XXIX . Thus , you see the cause of unregenerate State , To help thee , Reader , Heb 11.1 , 6. I will a little more debate The Cause , and in our way , What 's Faith And Repentance , according as Scripture saith ? Faith is the first link in a Believer's Chain , Act. 8.37 . Then follow Holiness , and Sins refrain . Then God's Love is shed abroad in our Hearts , Rom ● 5 By the Spirit , Eph. 2.8 . & 6.16 , 17. so from Wickedness departs : Faith , God's Gift , is a Believer's Shield and Sword , Is ordinarily wrought in us by his Word , Rom. 10.14 . By the Spirit 's Operation , whereby we see Our undone Condition by Sin , till set free By Christ ; then the Soul without delays , Remembers his own sinful evil ways , Ezek. 36.31 . Returns unto Christ with Morning Praise , Looks on Christ , whom hath pierced Tears run , Weeps bitterly , Zech 12.10 . as one mourns for his Son : This is Repentance , that godly Sorrow unto Life , Not to be repented of , 2 Cor. 7.10 . with Sin is at strife . Thus all who are Regenerate by saving Faith , Having received the Spirit , Rom. 8. v. 13.14 , 15. as Scripture saith , Enlightening our Understanding by 's Operation , To live in new Obedience , Eph. 3.16 . to the 19. verse . in Conversation : This is writing God's Law in our Hearts By his Spirit , so from Sin in life departs ; This is to be Regenerate and born again , Jer. 31.32 . When from Sin in Conversation we refrain : Joh. 3.3 . This is true Baptism made without Hands , Col. 2.11 . Having new dispositions to do God's Commands , Not legal but evangelical , Rom. 12.2 . Heart change , Inward Reformation , Eph. 4.17 . our Minds did range On Vanity , now new thoughts of future State , New apprehensions of Christ and strait Gate , Mat. 7.13 . New formed Principles , 1 Tim. 1.5 . practical Resolution , New thoughts of Godliness till Dissolution : Act. 11.23 . This is Repentance to Life , saith Scripture true : This is Regeneration , Josh. 24.15 . makes Man become new : New Love to God in Christ is a new Creature , 2 Cor. 5.17 . Hates former ways : Grace adorns his Feature . Grace , Gal. 6.15 . a pulsive , inward , regenerating change Translates Man ; this to the World seems strange . By experimental Knowledge , Col. 1.13 . what this means , How few know ? Joh. 3.9 . but to false hope they leans . God's merciful , Mat. 7.21.23 . so abuse Mercy till they die , Don't believe the Scripture nor Sin fly : Lord have Mercy , cry Workers of Iniquity , Till lanch forth in the Ocean of Eternity . Thou must be converted in thy Generation , This must on thy Soul by Renovation , Mat. 18.3 . If ever art happy by way of Salvation . Some use to say , when they see a sick Friend , Object . If say , Lord have Mercy , he made a good end . I would not discourage on a sick Bed ; Sol. But if thou presume on this , 1 Thess. 5.3 . art led By the Spirit of delusion , hast no ground For thy Salvation , without in Christ found . 'T is true , God's merciful , Joh. 14.6 . by his Prerogative Did save the penitent Thief , whilst alive . Luke 23.43 . Here 's an Example of Christ's Mercy , but God Hath not promis'd Mercy at Death's fierce Rod ; Without a Promise , what ground for Faith ? All Promises are in Christ , Scripture saith . 2 Cor. 1.20 . And Christ saith , not all say Lord , Lord , Shall enter Salvation ; this , Mat. 7.21 . Scripture record Without doing God's Will , saith the Word , Why wilt be so mad thy Soul to venture , When many shall strive , and not enter ? Luke 13.24 . Thou wilt say , this will make one despair : Object . This also is the Devils work , his last snare , Sol. Therefore of his wicked Devices take care ; Tremble and Fear , Satan waits for Prey , 2 Cor. 2.11 . And would hinder thee of Salvation's Way . Let me tell thee , take it not in vain , 1 Pet. 5.8 . Where Despair hath destroyed one , 't is plain , Presumption hath it's ten thousand slain : Gen. 19.14 . Therefore false Hope do not still retain . ‛ Must have Trouble for Sin if art sav'd , 1 Cor. 15.34 . Dread false Security , Ephes. 5.14 . thy Soul is deprav'd With Sin , let not Presumption increase , Where the strong Man keeps House , all Peace ; When a stronger comes , Christ by his Spirit , Luk. 11.21 , 22. Must be troubl'd , the Devil to disinherit ; Then cast off false Peace in thy Generation , Rom 13.11 . Before thou fall in eternal Desperation , Consider well , what 's said in thy Station ; Rev. 20.15 . All unconverted are in a state of Damnation , Mat 18.3 . Will not this spur thee to secure Salvation ? Don't think me rash , Scripture says the same ; Search Scripture , if not , give me blame : 'T is the only Terms , Scripture all accord , No Conversion , Heb. 12.14 . no Salvation , saith the Word ; By Scripture , shall be judged thee and I , Then labour for Conversion before we die . 2 Tim 4.7 . Fight the good fight of Faith in our Station , So we may obtain Faith's end , 1 Pet. 1.9 . Salvation .
SECT. XXX . Come on Reader , How dost like this Play ? In other things , 2 Tim 2.14 . as motives in thy way , Consider Sin 's evil , as before is said , Man's Companion in sin is also laid Before , consider things , as we go stated , The sad condition of all unregenerated . Thou may'st see the evil of unbelief , Heb 3 19. hearing The ground of all wickedness and sin . Cast this cursed weed out of Heart , unbelief , Cause of Man's Ruine , of sin the chief ; For did Men believe God's Word were true , Would not content themselves , as they do In a state of Sin ; did they believe , then they Would leave Sin , turn out of Hell's way ; Then would the Drunkard , and unclean flee From Wrath to come , 1 Thes. 1.10 . would reformed be . Scripture saith , no unclean in his station , So living , Rom. 1.18 . so dying , shall enjoy Salvation ; Whoremongers , Swearers , many in the Nation , Proud , Gal. 5 v. 19 , 20 , 21 , Covetous , Lyers , shall have Damnation For their Portion , Who doth this believe ? But too like the Children of Mother Eve , Believe Satan before God , Gen. 3.6 . pull the Tree , Tho' forbidden , so in our lives do we . God commands , take heed of Sin , that curs'd , Yet by most of the World , 1 Joh. 5.19 . how 't is nurs'd ! The reason Men don't believe , in sin dead , Don't believe God's Wrath , Mat. 22.5 . what e'er is said : By some the whole Scriptures are deny'd ; Some others , the Scripture they divide ; Its Precepts some don't believe what it saith , Others in its Promises are weak in Faith. Hence all this is from the Devil's Art , 2 Thes. 2. v. 10 , 11 , 12. When Men receive not Scripture with the heart : Men love Darkness when deeds are evil , Hate Scripture light is from the Devil . Joh. 3.19 . Satan knows the Tendency of Gospel-grace Is his Kingdom of darkness to deface : Therefore Satan and Antichrist with 's Hounds , 2 Thes. 2.4 . to the 9. verse . Monks , Friars , Jesuits , his Kingdom abounds , Do all they can to keep Gospel-light down , So blind lead blind into Satan's Pound : Rev. 12.9 . Scriptures were given by the Spirit 's operation , Mat. 15.14 . Able to make us wise unto Salvation . 2 Tim. 3.15 . Where 's the Man that lives in Conversation , According to a Scripture demonstration ? Phil. 1.29 . God exalted his Word above his Name , Psal. 138.2 . For us not to live according is shame : Nay , to spur thee a little in thy way , The Word I have spoken , Christ did say , Joh. 12.48 . Shall judge us all at the last day ; Therefore to believe Scriptures , let 's accord , And live according to the reveal'd Word . What Unbelief in men's Lives express'd Say they are Sinners , and so are the best , Gal. 6.7 . & 5.16 , 17. Such Baseness in most men's hearts doth rest . 'T is true , Sin dwells in us in this Life , But in the regenerate , there is Strife ; Spirit against the Flesh , Sin don't reign In Believers , but thou dost Sin maintain : Dost obey it in the Lust thereof still , Rom. 6.12 . Art captive to do the Devil's Will ? Consider , take this Caution by the way , Thou his Servant art whom dost obey . Don't think to go to Christ for a Plaster , And work Iniquity ; Mat. 25.41 . no with thy Master Don't be presumptuous , false hope don't breed ; Live holy , hate Sin , destroy that cursed weed ; Which if not , will destroy's , leave us dead , As Jael Sisera strike the nail in his Head. Sin doth seduce us , Judg. 4.18 . to the 21. verse . as Jael Sisera coming , Sin blinds us , as she him in Scripture seen . Sin promiseth smooth things ; but in the end , Nothing but Wormwood and Gall shall find ; Zeph. 1.2 , 3 , 7. But of the evil of Sin , I have said before , Consider it in Mind , and shall say more Hereafter ; hate sin , live holy in thy life , Fear God's wrath , with sin be at strife ; Bring forth Fruit , unto holiness attend , Eternal life and glory shall be thy end . Rom. 2.7 .
SECT. XXXI . Some may say , Object . Deut 13.30 . to the end . Sol. being in sin very bold , If this be true , what you do unfold , What 's become of our Fore-fathers of old ? This Objection , I look'd for in my way , Because common with many now a-day : This is , with false hopes our selves to flatter , We are not to enquire into this matter ; But to look to what God commands , As our duty , Act. 17.30 . this God requires at our hands . Time of their Ignorance God did at wink , Take heed what sinful thoughts thou think , Let not any false hopes in thee augment ; God requireth all Men now to repent . Don't with false hopes thy Soul delude , Think best to go with the Multitude ? Exod. 23.2 . This is like him , which Histories do tell , When came to be baptiz'd , mind it well , Asked whether his Fore-fathers were in Hell : The Bishop said , 't is truth what you tell ; Then ( saith he ) there will I also go , Would not be baptized , the cause is so With most of the World , Jer. 9.14 . the cause is sad , When Men practise like Men are mad . What is it to be a Christian , only in name , When Men's actions in life , Tit. 1.16 . cry shame ? Alexander one of his Souldiers did blame , Said sight better , or leave off thy Name . So leave off Christian , Tit. 2.14 . or answer the end Of Christian , and not Christian , only pretend . Many things done among Christians I could name , Which to Heathens would be meer shame . Eph. 5.12 . The Turks , the name of Christian defie , Why , because do not live accordingly : They of Christians make Slaves , & 4.18 , 19. herein Many Christians make themselves Slaves to sin . How corrupt is this our English Nation ? Few live Christian in their conversation . How wicked , and prophane in their Feasts , In drinking healths , drunk worse than Beasts ? Yet Ahasuerus , who was but a Heathen King , Did command against this wicked thing . Esth. 1. v. 7 , 8. The truth of which , Scriptures plain tell , No Man to drink should one another compel , Oh! Christians , those Practices are way of Hell. To force Men to drink , is such an evil , Is not from any good , but from the Devil ; Yet Men will to their knees in this desire , When never to their knees in holy Prayer . Psal. 14.4 . Oh! that England under a Christian King , Should such wicked practices forth bring . Jesuits say , a Cross honourable to a King's Crown , Isa. 5.20 . But I think not , when his Honours down In his Subjects ; when Iniquities abound , 'T is Religion , Holiness , makes a King renown'd ; Let 's no more in these wicked practices be found , But pray for King William in his Station , 1 Tim. 2.2 . Long may maintain in his Generation , Gospel Religion by 's coming in the Nation , Pray more for the King in thy Station , Swear and whore less in thy Generation , Leave of Drunkenness in thy Conversation , Phil. 1.29 . This is the best health in the Nation . Live like a Christian real , take my advice , If ever you expect to injoy Paradise , Cast off those Practices of sin and vice Pray against those things , in this England , Psal. 7.9 . & 143.10 . To do God's will desire to understand ▪ Be holy in Conversation , God's way chuse , Rev. 14.7 . Many are more for hearkning after News , Than to know God , think ignorance will excuse . How many say , where much is given , Much is required , Luk. 12.48 . as my name is STEPHEN . Let me tell thee , and I will not dissemble , Ignorance will be no excuse ; then tremble , Cast off Wickedness , no longer sin be banding , God's displeas'd with People of no Understanding : Isa. 27.11 . Yea fear and dread , will not show favour Nor Mercy on them do not Mercy favour , In their Lives will not be their Saviour , That are ignorant of Christ in behaviour : Luk. 13.27 . When Christ comes in the World below , 2 Thes. 1.8 , 9. Will render Vengeance to all don't know And obey him ; tremble then , and be wise , From Ignorance of Sin do thou arise , 'T is Scripture Counsel , Luk. 12.47 . Don't it despise . 'T is true , he that knows his Master's Will , And doth it not , but is negligent still , Shall have many stripes , suffer in a higher degree In Hell , & 10.13 , 14. the greater his Damnation be , But what comfort will this yield thee ? If in Hell , Joh. 17.3 . then labour for Knowledge , see Thy need of Christ , Ignorance also flee . Oh! 't is sad enough , Man , to be in Hell , Tho' thy Punishment so great don't swell Mat. 8.12 . As some others ; Jud. 6.7 . yet Ignorance makes so odd , 'T is Hell enough to be excluded from God , From enjoying his Presence , lie under his Rod. What 't is to lie under God's wrath in Hell , Dread and tremble , Psal. 90.11 . no tongue can tell ; Then labour to know God in Christ , and To do God's Will desire to understand ; & 143.10 . Darkness in thy Soul , darkness in Hell , Here 's but little comfort for thee to dwell : Try the light within thee , Mat. 6.23 . lest it darkness be , If that's Darkness , Darkness is of great degree . From Ignorance arise , I wish thee as a friend ▪ Oh! Deut. 32.29 . were you wise to consider your latter end .
SECT. XXXII . Say some , Object . Isa. 8.20 . you stand for what Scripture saith , And hold it as the only rule of Faith. Doth Paul to the Thessalonians not say , Hold fast the tradition in your way 2 Thes. 2.15 . Which have been taught , whether by word Or our Epistle ? the Papists to this accord , Sol. For their unwritten Fables and Tradition , Hence would hold up their Superstition : Altho' there were some Doctrines of Faith In matters of practice , as History saith , When Paul wrote this Epistle , not found Expresly in writing in Scripture ground , And been preach'd by the Apostles ; Yet Sir , This will not in the very least inferr , That now the Canon of Scripture deem'd Heb. 2.1 , 2 , 3. Is compleated , Tradition should be esteem'd : We are not to practise as Tradition saith , But according to Scripture , the rule of Faith ; Yea Paul himself to us doth unfold , Let him be curs'd , which is very bold ; Gal. 1.9 , 10. Yea , if an Angel against Scripture hold , Let him be accursed ; in Scripture see , That tradition can be no Rule for we , Unless according to Scripture it agree . Some complain of the Scripture's obscurity , Yet themselves in sin grown to maturity ; Yet very plain to any would sin fly , Scripture saith , shalt not commit Adultery ; Jam. 2.11 . 'T is plain , he that believeth shall be saved , He that believeth not , is so deprav'd With Sin , he shall be damn'd , Mark 16.16 . 't is plain In Scripture , therefore must be born again . He that hath this hope , or this Faith , Purifies himself , as God's pure Scripture saith . 1 Joh. 3.3 . 'T is plain , blessed are the pure in heart , They shall see God , from sin depart : Mat. 5.8 . Prov. 8.36 . Heb. 12.14 . He that sinneth wrongeth his own Soul , These Scriptures are plain enough to all : Some others the Scripture they disdain , Because Truth in them is so plain . Full of extremes are many in our days ; 2 Cor. 2.11 . To destroy Souls , Satan hath many Ways . He that ordereth aright his Conversation , Shall be sure to enjoy eternal Salvation , Psal. 50.23 . Live according to the Gospel of Christ Jesus ; Let not Men's vain Tradition please us . No Book like the Scripture in its Station , Of Christianity Scripture is the foundation . Christ for Man's Redemption was seal'd By the Father , Joh. 6 27. only by the Scriptures reveal'd . The Gospel declares glad tidings of Salvation ; Let 's love the Scriptures in our Generation , Tho' written by divers Men in their station , 2 Pet. 1.21 . Yet concurr in one by the Spirit 's operation , Tho' written by several Men , yet all accord ; Under several dispensations : yet the Word Tends to one thing , to Holiness it doth afford , As men guided by the Spirit of the Lord , Who spake , as moved by the Spirit still , All there Prophecies have , Mat. 24.34 , 35. and time will fulfil . Man cannot certainly determine , 't is decided , Things future , that are contingent , if not guided By God's Spirit . Scriptures harmonious intent Is against Sin , to promote Holiness by one consent ; Therefore against Scripture , the wicked bent . The Drunkard knows , 't is sin at least , But Intemperance is worse than the Beast : Psal. 49.20 . The voluptuous and unclean in 's Station , Knows 't is sin to commit fornication ; Therefore love darkness , Deeds being evil , To hate Scripture is to please the Devil ; 'T is a delusory Spirit in Age or Youth , Not to receive Scriptures in love , 2 Thes. 2. v. 10 , 11 , 12. as truth . Some Custom and Tradition of old Fathers cry , So the Rule , the Scripture , they pass by ; Others cry , the Light within , so they pass From Scripture , are as bad 's those hold Mass . Conscience enlightned , Light within hearken to , As a ruled rule , Isa. 8.20 . Psal. 119. v. 9 , 105. by the Scripture rule do . How shall Man cleanse his way ? not by Sword , But by observing what 's written in the Word : Thy word is a lamp , a light in my way , Had not been for the Word , I had gone astray . Live the Scripture , Col. 3.16 . in Love let them dwell Plenteously in us , they dehort from Hell , And Remember what my lines do tell . The Spirit , who guided Men by 's Inspiration , Luk. 24.45 . Must work a practical belief by 's operation Of Scripture in our Hearts in our Generation . Col. 2.11 . In writing the Scriptures , the Spirit did guide Men in their Generation , as is imply'd By what I have said , and can't be deny'd . Therefore , pray for the Spirit , Luk. 11.13 . who still Can guide us to understand God's will Reveal'd in Scripture which leads to Salvation , Is by Christ in way of sanctification ; For a practical belief of Scripture I contend , Joh. 16.13 . Without which eternal Death will be our end .
SECT. XXXIII . If all I have said will not thee move After Holiness , but still Sin dost love : Consider Sins sad effects as we run . If any thing will move , see it on his Son , Rom. 8.2 . How God poured out his Wrath afresh , Yet but in the likeness of sinful flesh : For sin , condemned sin in 's Son , Shall we Make light of sin , yet Christ was free ? In Christ was no sin , nor any guile ; 1 Pet. 2.22 . Yet had such love , suffered for Sinners vile . Christ was tempted , Is' t nothing in thy eye ? Mat. 4.1 , 2. Had such love , freely gave himself to die : Was rich , became poor , of no reputation , 2 Cor 8.9 . Not a place to lay's Head , to purchase Salvation For Sinners ; fasted , was despised , rejected , Mat. 8. v. 20 , 27 29 , 30 , 31. Was spit on , buffeted , art still dissaffected ? Was derided , Shall not Christ be respected ? Sweat like drops of Blood , Luk. 23.11 . sorrowful to Death For Sinners , to appease his Father's wrath . Christ was crown'd with Thorns , Mat. 26.38 . Art Still loth from thy Sins to depart ? No sorrow like Christ's , Isa. 53 3. behold ye pass by His Cradle , a Manger , Disgrace till came to die . Luk 2.7 . When born of a Woman , Luk. 2.7 . no room in the Inn , All this Christ suffered , cursed effects of Sin ! Christ wept , Joh. 11.35 . Do we laugh , Tears , Friends , If 't is nothing to us , sad will be our ends : For despising Moses Law without Mercy dy'd , Slight Christ's Blood by which are sanctified . And we expose our selves , Heb 10 28. to the 31. verse . saith the Word Unto the severe Justice of the Lord , 'T is dreadful if we in unbelief accord , To fall in God's hand , as saith the Word Is fearful ; therefore let 's obedience afford . Out of Christ , God is a consuming Fire ; In Christ , Mat. 17.5 . a reconciled Father ; let 's desire To be found in Christ by Faith and Prayer . Let 's take Christ by Faith for our Refuge , Gen 7.1 . For God's wrath is too great a deluge For us to wade ; Psal. 46.1 , 2. see what 's before presented , Our hearts hard , else would have relented . God's wrath made Christ cry , Isa. 25.4 . Mat. 27.46 . My God , Can we stand under 's revenging Rod ? Oh! shelter in Christ , this Ark will stand , Carry us thorough God's wrath unto dry Land . Consider yet farther , if all I have said Of Sins effects , will you not be afraid Of God's wrath for sin ? The Scriptures tell God cast Angels for sin from Heaven to Hell , Cast Adam out of Paradise for his sin , Jud. 6.7 . Gen. 3.24 . & 7.23 . & 19.24 . Destroy'd the old World that long had been , Rain'd Fire and Brimstone on Sodom for sin , In Mount Pisgah , Deut. 34.5 Moses . lost his life , Because he sinned at the waters of strife . Judgments on many more I could write , Exod. 14.28 . As an effect of sin , too many here to recite ; But above all those , Numb. 12. v. 9 , 10 , 11. and a thousand more , None like our Saviours , as you see before : All Christ suffer'd out of love for we , 2 King. 5.27 . Yet not love Christ , Act. 5.5 . nor shed a tear for he , Whose love was beyond any degree , Yet not love Christ , then base are we . Heb. 10.7 . Was Christ incarnate , left his Glory all , Not shed a tear for Christ , our love small . Consider his love , 2 Cor. 5.14 , 21. let his love constrain From Sin , else what I say will be in vain : Christ's love to us , is love beyond degree ; The offended dies to set the offender free . Lord with thy love make my Soul shine , Psal. 31.16 . Never was such love as this of thine .
SECT. XXXIV . Here 's Judgment and Mercy before's ; yet we Love and live in sin , have eyes and can't see . Isa. 6.10 . Consider God's wrath , from sin be turning , Who can dwell in everlasting burning ? & 33.14 . If we leave not sin before 't is too late , 'T will be our damnation in a miserable state : One of those two , shall be forc'd to cry Out of a sense of sin , oh ! wretched Man I , Rom. 7.24 . Who shall deliver me from sin's misery . Consider it , for God is still the same , Luk. 16.24 . Or cry I am tormented in this flame . Shun sin ; for if God spar'd not his Son , Who was the natural branch , Rom. 8.32 . & 11.21 . at long run Will not spare thee ; then of sin , take heed , For to thy Salvation 't is a cursed weed . Moses died for one sin at waters of strife , Deut. 34.5 . What think'st that lives in sin all thy life ? God's merciful , this should obedience increase , & 29.19 , 20. Not go on in sin , to thy Soul cry peace , And add Sin to Sin , Drunkenness to Thirst : Fear lest thou die in sin , God is just ; Without Justice satisfy'd , tho' Mercy crav'd ; No Man by meer Mercy of God is sav'd , Tho' Grace , Joh. 3.16 . Mercy be the original ground Of our Salvation ; yet let not sin abound : Without Justice satisfy'd , no Salvation found . If all the World to satisfie Justice had try'd , Nothing could , but only Christ that dy'd ; Mat. 17.5 . In him only God is well pleased , and Hath committed all power into his hand : & 28.18 . Mercy is over all ; yet if Soul be filthy With sin , God will not clear the guilty . Exod 34.6 , 7. Don't abuse Mercy , since Mercy doth abound , To satisfie God's Justice , but one way found ; That 's only Christ , God's Justice would admit No other satisfaction , Act. 4.12 . Rom. 8.1 . this point don't forget . Go to Christ , in him is no Condemnation ; But without Christ , there is no Salvation : No Condemnation to them obedience afford , Who walk not after the flesh , saith the Word , But after the Spirit , as the Scriptures record ; If in Christ , no Condemnation from the Lord , Yet may be condemn'd by Men , Luk. 23.14 , 23. may accord For their Condemnation at Council-board ; Yet if in Christ , 't will this comfort afford , Tho' condemn'd by Men , Rom. 8.34 . none from the Lord . Live as those in Christ , let not sin abound , Walk in the Spirit , Gal. 5.25 , 19 , 20 , 21. in sins way be not found : As many as are lead by the Spirit , They live by Faith , and apply Christ's merit , Who purchas'd not only their Salvation , But redeem'd us from a sinful conversation . Tit. 2 14. Rom. 8.13 , 14. Don't live after the Flesh in life so odd , But live holy like the Sons of a holy God , By Adoption and real Regeneration , Which is effected by the Spirit 's operation ; 1 Pet. 1.2 . Therefore of hopes of Heaven don't talk , Except according to Scripture rule walk : The Field of Sin is the Devil's ground , Gal. 5. v. 19 , 20 , 21. If thou trade there , take heed of his Pound ; They were judged according to their works Who believes this ? Rev. 20.13 . but such baseness lurks In Men and Women's hearts , the Devil's cheat , God's merciful , so they with this conceit Abuse mercy , 1 Joh. 3.8 . and are led by the Devil , Not believing every secret good or evil Shall come into Judgment , Eccl. 12.14 . did Men believe , Men would not sin as they do , Eph 4.30 . 2 Cor. 5.10 . but grieve For grieving God's Spirit , not in Sin run , If believ'd God's Omnisciency , Prov. 15.3 . God looking on . All things are open and naked unto God ; Heb 4.13 . Then fear lest he smite thee with 's rod. Many do that , which if Men did see They would be sham'd , and from Men flee . Eph. 5.12 . Oh! take heed , God knoweth all thy actions , God knoweth all thy thoughts and affections ; Psal. 44.21 . Then fear to sin against God , Luk 8.17 . for he hath Reserv'd workers of iniquity for wrath ; Luk 8.17 . If Men condemn thee not , observe the Word , Job 21.30 . Without in Christ , condemn'd of the Lord .
SECT. XXXV . Come on , Reader , How dost like this Play ? Jud. 17. I have other things as motives in thy way , On sins sad effects , see how I have been ; Yet 't is to the evil and nature of sin Nothing . See also how my lines run , 2 Pet. 1.17 . Without an Int'rest in Christ art undone . But some may say in their Generation , Object . Can we withstand sin and temptation ? Can we work our own Renovation ? 2 Cor. 3.5 . Sin will break forth in our conversation Tho' we are by our corruptions withstood , Sol. And sin run over us like a great flood Over a bank ; Rom. 6.13 . to the 16. verse . yet the bank doth remain Till the flood of water is gone again : So 't is with us , whilst here in Sin 's Field ; If cut thorough the bank , we yield To sin , Rom. 7.15 . but when our resolution is bent Against Sin , then we sin not by consent . This in Paul , you may see very clear , As the Scriptures to us do make appear , Tho' can't hinder Birds flying in the Air Over us , from making nests in our Hair We are able to prevent them , Eph. 6.10 . to the 18. verse . then take care How thou yield and entertain Sin , And consider what I say to thee herein ; 'T is one thing to be conquer'd by an Enemy , And another thing to yield and cry , And surrender our selves presently Without opposition , or from him fly ; Jam. 4.7 . 'T is one thing to be overcome by temptation , Another thing to yield to sin in our station . There 's great difference in sin remaining , And in sin in our lives still reigning . Rom 6.12 . Don't still plead imbecility , and never depart From sin in thy life , this is Satan's art , Use the means to overcome sin with thy heart . The impotent Man did wait , tho' weak At the Pool of Bethesda , Joh. 5.5 . as Scriptures speak , Dost use all means to this end . Don't flatter Thy self , God will judge thee for this matter . Consider what I say to thee , and herein Abhor thy self ; Job . 42.6 . God's not the Author of Sin , Be humble for corrupted nature , take heed What thoughts concerning Sin thou breed . Jam. 1.13 , 14. Don't plead Sin 's excuse . God will confute Thy Plea without the Wedding-garment sute . 1 Joh. 3.8 . Make use of Reason and Understanding assent , Mat 22.12 . Will regulate and draw thy consent . 1 Cor 14 20. Object . Some may say we are weak and unstable , What can we do to believe , not able ? We by Sin can still God's Spirit grieve , Why do you perswade us to believe ? Act 8.31 . Sol. I answer , here 's the cause and condition , When sick , don't you send for a Physician ; As a means of your health without delay , And use all helps for the body that way ? Will you use means for the health of the body , Rom. 13.14 . And not for the Soul , wilt be such a noddy ? Tho' not able to believe of our selves , Rom. 10.16 , 17. saith Scripture , do we use the means for Faith ? The Apostles did to all this Counsel give , Perswaded Sinners to repent and believe , Act. 3.19 . & 16.31 . Which doth imply a power from Sin to fly In us tho' the Spirit works it effectually . Do we attend the Ordinances of God Eph 3.7 . Appointed to this end ? Don't dissemble so odd , For faith comes by hearing , art attendant In hearing the Word , Isa. 40.29 , 30 , 31. as a poor dependant On God for his holy Spirit 's operation , To make the word effectual to Salvation ? Dost wait at these Bethesda's ; by reflect , Do you prize the means , and don 't neglect No opportunity your Salvation to effect ? Dost love the Word , and Messenger respect ? Heb 2.3 . Such love to buy the word of truth ; Then sell it not , whether Age or Youth ; Prov. 23.23 . Let no worldly profit or self respect Cause you the means of Grace to neglect . Have you esteem'd the word more than Food ? Job 23.12 . Ventur'd all for it , tho' sometimes withstood ? How did our Fore-fathers prize the Word ? For a few leaves of the Bible did afford A load of Hay , as History doth say : Now the whole Bible slighted in our day . Mat. 22.5 . Oh! love the Word , and the Gospel prize ; They are Mercy to us , tho' some it despise ; Tho' by some Scripture's slighted and deny'd , Yet are to Salvation a perfect guide ; Rom. 1.16 . Yea , the power of God unto Salvation , Oh! love them , love them in thy Generation : Live according , they are no feigned story , But do direct us the way to Glory . Act. 20.32 . The Scriptures are call'd the word of grace ; Let 's not in our conversations it deface . Scriptures give Understanding in their station To the simple , makes them wise to Salvation . Psal 19.7 . Love will speak for it's vindication In thy Station , to hear the word move , And receive it with faith and love ; 2 Thes. 2.10 . Not only in notion and speculation , But let love appear in conversation ; Phil 1.27 . Don't neglect the means in thy station . How shall we escape eternal damnation , If we neglect our so great salvation ? Heb. 2.3 . Use the means , don't delay , rest on none For Salvation , but on Jesus Christ alone , As I have said before , Joh 14.6 . and again repeat Because our happiness is in Christ compleat ; Yet use the means , don't thy Soul cheat ; If waited with many doubts and fears ; Yet wait still , tho' be thirty eight years . Some God is pleased to hold many a-day , Psal. 40.1 , 2. Before they are sure of Salvation's way ; Yet our duty is to wait , watch and pray : Some soon injoy by faith this Treasure , Others God's pleas'd to hold with longer leisure . What shall I say to this , Ephes. 1.5 . 't is God's Pleasure ; Let 's do our duty in Faith , not measure God's dispensations , Mat. 20.1 . to the 16. verse . he is God of Power , Calls some the first , some the eleventh hour ; To some God gives five Talents , & 25.15.26 . some but one , Emprovement is expected from all hereupon , Must do our duty , as in our Station run , Must not be slothful Servants in our station , Must improve our Talent , work out Salvation With fear and trembling , Phil. 2.12 . the means attend , God ordains the means as well 's the end . Cast off dissembling ▪ don 't still pretend Thy imbecility , Psal. 40 1 , 2 , & 62.5 , 6. act Faith , on Christ depend , In , and on the means , and to be sure Thy Soul shall have an everlasting cure . Rom. 10.11 .
SECT. XXXVI . Consider these things , 2 Pet 3.1 , 2. Reader , them dilate In heart , they concern thy everlasting state : The result of all my aim herein Is , to bring thee an abhorrency of sin ; And to tell thee also , whether great or small , If did but half so much for the Soul Mat. 6. v. 31 , 32 , 33. As for the body , better Christians might be all . To help thee farther , I will my self apply , And consider what I say as thou passest by . Doth Sin appear exceeding sinful ? Rom. 7.13 . Dost cry , Who shall deliver , Rom. 7.24 . to sin let me die ? Sin is a powerful and malignant Enemy , So deceitful , Heb. 3.13 . would the ruine of thee and I. Consider thy own impotency , and herein Observe thy inability to overcome Sin. Can 't nature change , nor heart renew , Nor of thy self thy Lusts subdue ? Jer. 10.23 . Object . Say some , What must be done , and we Would from sin's Dominion be set free ? If on what 's said hast had reflection , Sol. Had been no need of this objection ; However in love for thy Soul 's advance , I will tell thee truth , as my Name 's HVSNANCE , Job 42.6 . Be humble , obhor thy self , know thy heart , How deceitful 't is , I need no more impart Jer. 17.9 . To humble thee , What a Cage of uncleannese lies In thy heart , evil Thoughts , Murders , Adulteries , Mat. 15.19 . By nature , desperate , wicked whilst breath , Watch thy heart , of it comes life and Death . Mark 7. v. 21 , 22. Be convinc'd of its evil , learn the Art Of Prayer . Lord create in me a clean heart . Prov. 4 23. Lord give me thy Spirit , open my eyes , Psal. 51.10 . 'T is thy Spirit 's work to turn from ways Of darkness , from Satan's Power unto thee , Act. 26.18 . I long a Slave to Sin , set thy Creature free , Use the means , as before you may see . If a Father in Age , or in years a Youth , The Spirit can lead in the way of truth , Joh. 19 v. 8 , 13. Pray for the Spirit , the only Illuminator , Convinceth of sin , from sin makes a separater . Lord give me thy Spirit , open the door Of my heart , take Possession , go out no more ; Cast the strong Man out , destroy sin , That the King of Glory may enter in , Psal. 24.9.10 . Subdue my iniquities , let not sin reign In me , let me be born again , Rom. 6.12 . Then do not sin in thy life maintain : Be convinc'd of sin , 't is Satan's invention , Must be lost in thy own apprehension . 1 Joh. 3.8 . Here 's the effect of the means of Grace , As before , do not the Gospel deface : First step to Mercy is to see thy misery : Mark 10.51 . Lord , let me receive my sight must cry . Luk. 18.41 . The way to Heaven is by the Gates of Hell , Must not live in sin , yet think all well . Christ came to save that which was lost , Mat. 18.11 . Fear lest instead of Heaven to Hell must . Kiss the Son lest angry , and we perish , Psal. 2.12 . Hate false ways , in heart no sin cherish , Agree with thy Adversary in the way , Mat. 5.25 . Make thy Calling and Election sure to day ; Now is the accepted time , 2 Cor. 6.2 . don't delay , Slip time , God mayn't hear tho' you pray , Because would'st none of his Counsel , and The fear of God would'st not understand ; Therefore God may laugh at calamity , Will not love you , Prov. 1.26 , 29 cannot be in amity . Consider , Job 28 28. 't is dreadful , don't Mercy abuse ; Let 's crucifie our Sins , and God's Fear chuse ; Let 's abhor our selves before the Lord , Forsake our Iniquities , believe his word : Resolve like the Lepers , if tarry we die : Go from the state of sin to Christ , try , He may have Mercy , 2 King. 7.3 , 4. if not can but die .
SECT. XXXVII . Hath Sin brought you to this ? Mat. 11.28 . then see Christ call , if heavy laden come to me . Ho , all that thirst for Christ , don't doubt , He will not turn his Promise about , Isa. 55.1 . Come by faith , Joh. 6 37. he will not cast you out . Go to Christ , Sinner , for Sinners Christ dy'd , Believe in Christ , you may be justify'd , Came in the world to save Sinners in chief ; 1 Tim 1.15 . Believe in Christ , he will be relief To thy Soul , Joh. 6.27 . Christ the way to us reveal'd For Sinners Salvation by the Father seal'd : He is mighty to save to the uttermost , All come to him throughout the Coast ; Heb. 7.24 . Willing to save , waits to be gracious , Come to Christ , Isa. 30.18 . his bounds of Mercy spacious . If art a great Sinner , and in sin old ; Yet come , Rev. 3.20 . Christ doth for Sinners Mercy hold : Come to Christ , don't be ungrateful bold ; His Blood cries , Heb 12.24 . don't sin , Scriptures unfold Christ's Sufferings as before , see , behold ; Don't sin thy self out of his fold . Come with the Prodigal with this regret , Luk. 15 20 , 21. I 've sinned against thee , Mercy will you meet ; If you out of a sense of sin mourn , Christ's bowels with Mercy towards us yearn . Jer. 31.18 , 19 , 20. Christ willing to save his Blood doth cry , Turn from your sins , Why will you die ? Ezek. 33.11 . Repent , cast sin off , shalt have his Robe , White Raiment more worth than Job , Job 42.12 . Nay , more worth than the Worlds Globe . Mat. 16.26 . Oh! Believe , believe in Christ herein , Know the Blood of Christ cleanseth sin : 1 Joh. 1.7 , 9. Forsake thy wicked thoughts , don't harden Thy self , God will abundantly pardon . Isa. 55.7 . Christ don't quench smoking flax , desire , Mat. 12.20 . In sincere , but will increase the Fire , If come to Christ by faith in Prayer . Christ will not break the bruised reed Of any , who see of Christ their need , Oh! go to Christ by faith with speed . Rev. 22.17 . Cast off sin , don't delay till you die , Don't abuse Christ's love by false security , But make sure of Mercy ; now say I Heb. 3.15 . If art young , I will tell thee truth , Remember thy Creator in days of Youth , Eccl. 12.1 . Don't be presumptuous , still in sin bold , Death calls the young as soon's the old : They die in Youth , cast among unclean , Job 36.14 . Therefore Presumption do you refrain . Oh come by Faith to Christ , be united ; Come to Christ , since so lovingly invited : If you are old , then my lines cry , Heb. 9.27 . Prepare for Death , for you must die , Cast off false-hopes , take this in thy way , Consider it , as tho' did'st hear Christ say , I stand at the Door , let me in , tho' true Rev. 3.20 . I have waited till my locks have had due ; Cant. 5.2 . When many sins have been entertain'd In thy heart thy Saviour's company refrain'd . 'T is true , if by experience call to mind , Is this thy kindness to me thy Friend ? Deut. 32.6 . Such a Friend as I did freely for you die , Is all this nothing as you pass by ? Greater love than this could none do , Lay down his Life for his Friend , Joh. 15.13 . but who Would die for his Enemies , as I for you ? My design to make you mine ; 't is true , You were Enemies , Col. 1.21 . will you be so still ? Must my blood be lost , Eph. 2. v. 1.2 , 12 , 13. and Satan have 's will ? Did I leave my glory to do you good , Yet no better do you prize my blood ? Joh. 17.4 . Canst hear Christ thus complain of 's love , And not our hearts towards Christ move ? Did his blood run love for us so free , Joh. 19.34 . Ours not a Tear for Christ , base are we To love sin , be guilty of such ingratitude ; Tho' Christ cry , why will you die ? intrude On my Patience , Ezek. 33.11 . have such a latitude To Sin , then on you Justice I must conclude : Bind him hand and foot , Mat. 25.30 . I will you sever From enjoying my Presence , and that for ever . Say some , Object . how can this stand , or be With the free riches of Grace and Mercy , Which are in Christ in such a degree , As you before plainly have said unto we ? I answer , Sol. the death of a Sinner may be Consider'd two ways , if we sin so free As to abuse Mercy , 1 Joh. 3.4 . then Justice know Is executed as a wilful breach of the Law ; Then God delights in a Sinner's eternal death , Prov. 1.24 . to the 31. verse . Not otherways ; therefore whilst hast breath , Know Punishment is fruit of Sin 's production , God delights more in Sinners life than destruction : But if Sinners abuse Mercy , and sin maintain , Then God delights in a Sinners destruction plain , Will destroy all those don't desire his Reign . Luk. 19.27 . Oh! don't abuse Mercy , 't is a wicked thing , Because God is merciful , slow in punishing , Many take liberty to live bold in sin . Because Sentence is not executed against evil , Eccl. 8.11 . Therefore Man's heart 's set to please the Devil . Oh! dread and tremble . I wish thee as a Friend , To abuse Mercy will be sad in the end . Consider this , art dead , will nothing move Thy Obedience to Christ ? he deserves thy love . Cant. 5.10 . Consider his Sufferings as before , admire God's Wisdom and Christ's love , in such desire Of Man's Salvation , God sending his own Son Joh. 3.16 . To redeem us , when we by sin were undone . Don't despise the Mystery of Godliness herein , What ever Christ suffer'd was due to us for sin . In despising God's goodness , I speak the rather , Thou despisest the Wisdom of God the Father ; And also despisest the free love of the Son In all his sufferings which he for 's hath done , And dost also in thy earthly Race Do despight unto the Spirit of Grace . Heb. 10.29 . This will be very dreadful in the end : Oh! now believe , repent , make Christ thy Friend ; For when once the Doom as before is pass'd , Job 36.18 . 'T will not be reach'd , can't be revers'd .
SECT. XXXVIII . This may seem strange to some in sin quiet 1 Pet. 4.4 . Sin is to many now a very pleasing Diet ; Yet don't run the same excess of Riot . Most in sin sport themselves herein , None but Fools make a mock of sin . Prov. 14.9 . Let them alone make Holiness their laughter , Yet no Holiness here , no Happiness hereafter : Heb. 12.14 . Mind what 's said before , don't think it a Story , For 't is only Grace that leads to Glory ; Mat. 5.8 . & 25.4 . Only the pure in heart see God with Joy , Get oil in Lamp , nothing shall thee annoy . Go to God , and pray , and pray again Psal. 32 6. To God thorough Christ , then may obtain ; Ask , it shall be given , God hath so decreed Joh. 16.24 . To give Grace to help in time of need : Heb. 4.16 . Mind what 's said before concerning Prayer , Go to God in Christ by faith's desire ; Isa 44.3 . Let God's Glory be thy end in Prayer still , 1 Cor. 10.31 . So by Faith pray according to God's Will , Make the Kingdom of Heaven suffer violence Mat. 11.12 . In way of Duty ; for think not thy expence This way , Heb. 11.23 . till come unto that Auditory , Church of the First-born with God in Glory ; Dan 9.3 . When millions of years over , Psal. 65.2 . no annoy Happens to Saints to interrupt their joy : They sin no more , Isa. 25.8 . all tears off their eyes Are wip'd , Rev. 7.17 . Hallelujahs sing above the Skies , Eye not seen , nor heart of Man conceive , What God hath prepar'd for them believe ; 1 Cor. 2.9 . Rivers of pleasures are at 's right hand , Psal. 16.11 . Laid up for them obey his Command ; Mat. 25.23 . There Youth flourisheth , that never grows old ; Love continueth , Luk. 12.33 . that never waxeth cold , Nothing lacking , when God himself will be Joy and Light to our Souls to Eternity . Psal. 36.8 , 9. Observe , Reader , what to conclude from hence , What 's Heaven , Isa. 12.3 . but injoyment of God's Presence ? 'T is fulness of Joy , here 's Christ's Auditory , Christ pray'd Believers might behold's Glory . Joh. 17.24 . Behold Christ's glory is joy beyond degree , 'T is fruit of Christ purchase clear and free For us . Gal. 4.5 . Whom have I in Heaven but thee , Or an Earth that can compar'd be ? What 's Heaven great God compar'd to thee ? Psal. 73.25 . Without thy Presence 't is no Heaven to me , Nor would be possese'd , Heaven unpossess'd of thee . Whereever God by 's special grace doth dwell , That 's Heaven ; Isa 57.15 . where he is not , mind well , Present by 's Mercy and Grace , that 's Hell ; That is , understand what my lines tell ; If Heaven don't enter thy Soul by Grace , Shall never enter Heaven ; that 's a holy place . Cast off sin , to false hope don't lean , For there enters nothing that 's unclean . Rev. 21.27 . Heaven's Holiness in perfection , if no desire To Holiness in life , Rom. 9 22. then fit for Hell-fire . The total absence of all evil is Salvation , And is begun here in our Regeneration ; Yet by corruptions many times withstood ; In Heaven , Saints have possession of all good . Lord , Psal. 84 11. let 's injoy thy Presence here in Grace , So may injoy thy Presence in Heaven's place : Make 's such Lord as would'st have us be , From my corruptions Lord set me free , So may live forever in such a degree , Being made meet to praise thy Majesty , Where we shall be from Sin still free , Col. 1.12 , 13. And from all sorrow , trouble , and misery . Thus Friends you may plainly see Encouragement to hold fast integrity : Job 27.5 . No matter if Sufferings be great or small A light Affliction , a Crown of Glory pays all . 2 Cor. 4.17 . Here 's the Feast of fat things well refin'd , Isa. 25.6 . Meditate on them well in your Mind , And to Holiness in life be inclin'd , Secure our Int'rest in Christ to Eternity , Take Christ our King and Lord to be : 1 Chron. 1.30 . Prove thy heart whether grace or no , Grace that qualifies for Glory , and so Be meet for Communion with God Here , and with God hereafter , where 's Rod Psal. 23.4 . Is turned into Love , Felicity and Joy , Joh. 16.20 , 22. That for ever nothing shall thee annoy .
SECT. XXXIX . This is call'd Life eternal , mind it well , Mat. 25.46 . There 's another Eternity Scriptures call Hell ; There 's the wicked's Portion , a place obscure , & 8.12 . Full vials of God's wrath they must indure For ever , they God , and his holy ways hated , In Hell they must be for ever stated : No middle place , no Purgatory purgation Luk. 16.23 . Do the wicked meet , but Hell's Damnation ; Shall be chain'd fast against their desire , To suffer the vengeance of eternal Fire , Jud. 6.7 . The Sinner and Hell never part , Oh! admire God's Mercy that art not in Hell fire , Lam. 3.22 . Oh! run unto God by faith and prayer . Now can swear , drink healths , and then . Think you are qualified like great Men. How wilt be when God takes your breath , The end of those things is eternal death ? Rom 6.23 . Repent , be converted , turn from sin about , 'T is refreshing day to have sin blotted out , Act. 3 29. Your glass is running , tho' Mercy spare ye , Your life may be cut extemporary ; Time is short , 1 Cor. 7.29 . like a Post , we are hasting Unto Eternity , Jam. 4.14 . a place that 's everlasting . Oh! Eternity , Eternity , to thee my lines cry , For fear everlasting Death should'st die , What an eternal strait wilt then be in , Rom. 13 11. Oh! Dan. 12.2 . then haste , haste , cast off thy sin . Consider if sick with Colick or Stone 1 Tim. 6.12 . But a day , how wilt sigh , mourn and groan . How wilt be able to indure and stand Isa 3 11. Under wrath of the Almighty's hand ? Psal 11.6 . When Rivers of Fire and Brimstone Are about thee , Isa. 30.33 . then wilt cry and groan , None to pity , Mat. 7.23 . Mercy is turned to hate , Christ will not be an Advocate For thee : Isa. 1.15 . Oh! repent before 't is too late . God will not pity , but on thee will frown , Into Hell forever tumble thee down . Job 21.30 . Let Mercy lead to Repentance , Sin hate , Run to Christ by Faith before 't is too late . Art on the brink of an eternal State. Jam. 4.14 . Don't put sar from thee the evil day , So live in sin , Amos 6.3 . and repentance delay , Thou know'st not what a day or night may Bring forth , therefore watch and pray , Death may soon call thee hence away ; Then whilst hast time and call'd to day , Heb. 3.15 . Believe , repent , don't be like a sturdy oak , Lest God take thee with his stroke , As Elihu said to Job , there 's no exemption , Riches profit not , can't procure Redemption . God doth not esteem riches nor Gold , Nor all force of strength World doth hold : Job 36.18 , 19. Let this consideration cause thy sorrow , Lest feel God's wrath before to Morrow : Go to God in Christ before the decree Luk 12.20 . Go forth , Zeph. 2.2 . and thou eternally condemn'd be ; If not do God's will which is sanctification , 1 Thes. 4.3 , 4. Must suffer's will which is damnation ; If will not obey his word to do well , Mar. 16.16 . You must obey his word , go to Hell , 2 Thes. 2.12 . Depart ye cursed into everlasting Fire , Mat. 25.41 . Sins wages is death , here 's your hire : Oh! believe and fear God's Wrath , Rom. 6.23 . mourn For displeasing God by sin , lest God turn Thee out of 's Presence with eternal scorn , How wilt indure everlastingly to burn ? Isa. 33.14 . & 3.11 . When God takes his Creature in his hand , By 's Almighty Power makes it stand , That it may feel what Jehovah can Do against his Creature , woe to that Man ; Then may'st cry , wish hadst never been born , 1 Cor. 10 22. When under Gods Wrath , from Sin turn . Consider it ; for if my Pen all Iron were In Strength , Deut. 32 22 , 41. yet could I not declare The sad Effects of Sin ; nor can't tell What Pains and Anguish they suffer in Hell. Psal. 90.11 . All this I have said , and plainly asserted What will be the End of all Unconverted , Mat. 18.3 . As Motives to turn from Sin , that so They may repent and escape eternal woe . Rev. 20.13 .
SECT. XL. You see is before you life and death , Deut. 30.19 . Take the way of life whil'st hast breath . Now hast time , therefore I crave Thy duty ; no working in the Grave , Eccl. 9.10 . Rouze up thy dead heart , my lines cry , Consider whil'st hast life Eternity . Don't this a little rouze thee : Oh! don't keep Love to sin , Lord , awake's from sin's sleep . Hos. 10.12 . Consider those hints in thy Meditations , Enlargement is left to thy contemplations : Psal. 50.22 . Those things call for consideration , among Which , Eternity thou dost real belong : How can'st rest , and sleep , and not tell Whether dost belong to Heaven or Hell ? Deut. 32.29 . Consider sin's evil as before is said , Man's Companion in sin is also laid Before , mind things as we go , Hast try'd Thy self , as is said before , Hast cry'd Out of sin , what shall I do to be sav'd ? Go to Christ , he is the way crav'd ; Secure thy Int'rest in Christ without delay . 2 Tim. 2.14 . Here s the Foundation of all I can say : If miscarry here , Joh. 14.6 . you are for ever undone , None cometh to the Father but by the Son. There 's no other name or way , Act. 4.12 . and herein Observe 't is Christ's blood only cleanseth sin : 1 Joh 1.7 . We can do nothing by way of expiation , All our good works , nay our renovation Doth not merit , 't is but a qualification : 'T is free grace makes us meet for Salvation , Col. 1.12 . & 3 11. Making us new Creatures by Regeneration . Grace fits for Glory , not that we merit Heaven by good Works , that 's a Popish Spirit . 'T is by Christ alone we Salvation inherit . Good works are a walking in our station Rom. 4.13 . In the way too , but not the cause of Salvation . If a Man proffer Gold , my hands full of Clay , To receive the Gold , must cast Clay away , Yet I don't pay for Gold to him that gave , But cast Clay away , then fit to receive ; As a Man all rags , to receive a new Coat Casts his rags away , yet don't pay a groat : But for his new Coat , thanks doth say , He don't merit by casting his rags away : We came into the World all rags and torn , By sin Enemies to God , Col. 1.21 . till we are new born ; Tho' Heaven be proferr'd on terms of grace free , Yet from our Sins we must cleansed be ; Heaven by Christ alone is purchas'd and free . Free , because Man by sin lost that degree Of Happiness , Gen 3.17 . never more regain could he , Without Christ could never saved be A part from Christ , the best attempts alass Are tinkling Cymbals , and as sounding Brass . Humane structures prove but wood and hay 1 Cor. 13.1 . & 3.13 . In test and contest of that burying day , What are outward Ceremonies , when try'd All boasting confidence of Flesh will hide ? Nay our best Righteousness , our all in all , Must be resign'd , surrender'd , and let fall , Mat. 16.24 . Be sentenc'd , crucify'd , dispoil'd , disgrac'd , And at the feet of Jesus Christ plac'd . We must deny our selves , understand . Luk. 9.23 . That which merits any thing at God's hand Must be a Gift , we give not God's command ; But what ever us do , Rom. 3.23 . such Bankrupts we Can't pay God his due , can't merit you see ; To merit at God's hands , we must withal Give God overplus , besides the principal : But alas , if we can't pay God his due , How shall we give him overplus ? 'T is true , He would merit any thing at God's hands Must perfectly fulfil all God's commands , Gal. 3.10 , 11. Which no Man can , as I understands ; But Jesus Christ did as the Scriptures say , We by faith in Christ , not in a legal way . Can we offer any thing perfect ? no alas , It must thorow the hands of a Mediator pass Heb. 12.24 . & 7.25 . For acceptation with God , or else undone , Without intercession of Christ the Son. Cast off merit , to Christ by faith run ; For sin doth mix and incorporate in all Our duties , cast off merit both great and small . Woe to the holi'st Man alive , if God him try , According to his justice , and holy equity ; When done all we can , I will be true t' ye , Man can't merit , he doth but his duty , Luk. 17.10 . And unprofitable then in way of merit ; Yet to neglect duty , don't be of such a Spirit ; Mind what I have said before , Satan hath Many ways to destroy Souls in eternal wrath ; We enter the holy place by Christ's Blood , Heb. 9.12 . Yea , the holy of holiest ; sin like a Flood Would destroy's , had not Christ withstood God's wrath ; Christ the Fountain of all good To us Sinners , if were rightly understood . None to Christ , none to Christ , don't be deceived , Man hath nothing , 1 Cor. 4.7 . but what hath received . No merit can be by Man in any degree ; Angels are imperfect , Job 4.18 , 19. much more we Sinful Creatures , Man can't merit ; see , Be holy as we can ; yet when all 's done , Filthy rags without Righteousness of the Son : Isa. 64.6 . Run the race of Holiness as we can ; Yet no merit , unprofitable Servants then ; In all we do , we something do amiss , The perfection we attain imperfection is . Our all is too little , our best is too bad ; Grains of allowance , and pardon must be had : 'T is Christ's perfections makes all Believers glad , Slight Christ , Mat. 17.5 . pretend merit , are as Men mad .
SECT. XLI . Consider this , Tit. 3.5 . be not of a Popish Spirit , When have done all , no ground for merit ; If to Popery inclin'd , to put thee from , I will gather all 's said into this sum : All grace , Col. 3.11 . holiness is in Angels and Men Can't purchase Pardon for the least sin ; Luk. 9 35. then Consider this point , don't read it as a Story , Without int'rest in Christ never see Glory , Joh. 3.36 . Mind what 's said before of Purgatory . Don't cherish thoughts of merit so base , But depend only upon Christ for glory's race . Praise Jehovah , and admire his free grace In Christ , Isa. 61.1 . who suffer'd for Believers free , That Slaves to Sin , and Satan should not be . Oh! love Christ , he is the living Spring Of all good , Col. 2.9 . a Paradise of all pleasant thing : Christ cheers our Souls , Psal. 71.16 . he will them bring On high with Saints to praise and sing Glorious Hallelujahs with noise divine To all Eternity to the Almighty Trine . Rev. 19.1 . Oh! secure our lnt'rest in Christ to eternity , Take Christ our King and Lord to be , Obey Christ in life , not with cap and knee . Let Christ be exceeding precious to our heart , 1 Pet. 1.7 . Then from 's love we shall not depart , Nor heighth , nor depth , Rom. 8.35 . to the 39. verse . nor bars nor gates From Christ's love shall make us Seperates . Love Christ , he is the pearl of great price , Mat. 13.46 . Can purchace favour for us in Paradise . Luk. 23.43 . Let Christ be chief of ten thousand clear , By counting all things dung , Cant. 5.10 . let it appear By love to Christ's Members , if in want see , Phil. 3.8 . If not to those , you did not unto me ; Christ's own words in Scripture may see . Mat. 25.45 . & 5.7 , 44. Christ commands love , and feed our Enemies , Much more others when their condition cries For pity ; blessed are the merciful , for they Shall obtain Mercy the Scriptures say ; But he shall have Judgment for his pay Jam. 2.13 . That hath not bowels of mercy in his way , Strangers be not forgetful to entertain , Saith Scripture , show mercy , malice refrain : Heb. 13.2 . Some have entertain'd Angels , Scripture saith , Pity strangers , charity must be in faith : Rom. 14.23 . He that gives a cup of water in the name Of a Disciple , tho' he may deserve blame ; Mat. 10.40 , 41 , 42. Yet if the Giver be right in his end Shall not lose his reward , nor offend Tho' the party be not real , as he pretend . Christ's Commands relieve , distressed and By faith to respect Christ's command . Heb. 11.6 . Object . Say some , our charity should freely go To any in distress , if we did but know They were such , we would relieve them so , And not them oppose to increase their woe . But what if they prove such as have faith Sol. In Christ . Consider what Scripture saith , Christ saith , he that shall any one offend That trust in him , sad will be their end : Better a Mill-stone about 's neck , Scripture tell , Cast in the Sea , that 's sad , Mat. 18.6 . but worse in Hell Dreadful for the World , how they oppose Christ's little Flock , Luk. 12.32 . they offend even those That fear God most , still their malice runs Against Christ , and his people ; his little ones . Alexander the Copper-smith did withstand , 2 Tim 4.14 . Lord reward him with his mighty hand . This will be sad for the World in the end , Notwithstanding they for Christ pretend ; Yet sad for them , as truth Scriptures tell , When all ungodly shall be turn'd into Hell : Psal. 9.17 . But Onesephorus , Paul did for him pray , Oh! let him find mercy in that day : This was Paul's Prayer without delay . I pray for any that did poor Souls feed , 2 Tim. 1.16 , 17 , 18. When forc'd to run for life with speed ; Lord show mercy when they most need . Mercy , this Scriptures to us do unfold ; Then mercy will be more worth than Gold. Job 36.18 , 19. More of Love is in my eye , and intend To write a word or two of love before I end . To conclude this head , which Prayer apply'd For them , Heb 4.16 . by whom poor Souls were supply'd , Lord grant in Glory , they may be dignify'd .
SECT. XLII . My next Address , 1 Joh. 3.18 . I confess is to all those , Whom the World and wicked Men oppose ; If bear Christ's Image , Joh 17.14 . my love 's to them all , I love none for 's opinion only , nor shall , If any hold to the head , Gal. 5.22 . and in life so done , There shall my heart go , and my love run . Before you , Mark. 12 42. I will cast the Widows Mite , Leaving enlargement to those better can indite . Then are you effectually call'd , Mat. 22.14 . Oh! admire Free grace , 1 Thes. 4.7 . that you are this side Hell fire : Oh! 2 Tim. 1.9 . let God's goodness , and mercy augment Our diligence in ways of Holiness , and repent Of our barrenness under mercies enjoy'd : 1 Pet 1.15 . Oh! our ingratitude , 't is mercy are not destroy'd ; Fruitless under means , Lam. 3.22 . should cause Sorrow , For a remnant's sake are not like Gomorrha . Isa. 1.9 . You that are of this little number , admire God's love , not any thing of natural desire ; What knotty pieces God hath hewed out , And made meet for himself : Look about , Eph. 2.1 , 2. And admire divine love , as the spring Of God's love to us , 2 Pet. 1.4 . and not any thing In us , God loves because he loves in season . In Man , there is no motive , or reason Why God should love us . Oh! then adore Free grace , and love for evermore . To admire free grace , don't you forget To give thanks to God , Col. 1.12 , 13. who made us meet To enjoy Glory ; Nothing did God move So to do , but his own free grace and love . Joh. 3.16 . Man's love is from motive , God's from none ; God lays cost on Dunghils , free grace alone Makes us meet for Christ , a stately Throne . 2 Tim. 2.21 . What knotty pieces , we by sin and pride , How many ways hath the Spirit try'd , To bring us into any spiritual frame ? Cant. 1.4 . To love sin by Nature , are still the same . What drawings the Spirit hath in our Station , Hos. 11.4 . To fit us for a spiritual qualification ? We had strong corruptions in us reign , Joh. 6.44 . 'T is the Spirit 's grace doth a War maintain Against the flesh , or sin had us slain ; Gal. 5.17 . When we were in our blood by sin defil'd , Free grace did on us shine very mild ; Yea , said , unto us live , why will ye die ? Ezek. 16.6 . Free grace , that good Samaritan passed by , Said , again live , when defil'd with sin , Free grace pitied us , carried us to the Inn. Luk. 10.31 . to the 35. verse . When Priest , Levite , pass by , in Scripture see , Free grace in Christ did only pity we ; And nothing in us , did Jesus Christ move To save us , but his free grace and love : Rom. 3.24 . Free grace is our spring of supplies ; Let our love echo praise above the Skies Unto God and Jesus Christ , as knowing 'T is Canaan of Milk and Honey flowing . Numb. 14.8 . Free grace makes a Man become all new , As I have before presented to your view : Free grace makes the Soul only rejoice , Yet like Samuel , 1 Sam. 3.7 . it can't tell its voice . Free grace , 't is the fore-skin of the heart Taken away , so from sin we depart ; 'T is the wheel within the wheel in 's place Ezek. 10.10 . Set right , this is the work of free Grace : Free grace only sets the righteous apart , For God , Psal. 4.3 . Oh! let God have our heart . Let 's live , free grace in obedience understand , Free love hath a long arm , and full hand , Mercy for thousands that obey Christ's command . Live holy to God in thy life , Exod. 20.6 . sin deface , Don't live a wicked life , so abuse free grace : Live a holy conversation by faith still , If God's free grace don't lead thee , nothing will . Consider what 's said , Rom. 2.4 . what shall I say more , But that we free grace and God implore , And Christ and the Spirit 's love admire : Let 's live holy to God by faith and prayer . 2 Thes. 1.10 .
SECT. XLIII . Consider , 2 Tim. 2.14 . Reader , what 's said before in love , Let God's free grace thy heart and Soul move , We were by nature Lepers , doth grace shine In our Souls ? Eph. 2.2 , 3. to praise God do we incline ? Ten were cleansed , Luk. 17.17 . but where are nine ? In how few it appears , they are such indeed As cleans'd , few return to Christ with praise , How ungrateful are most in our days ? Instead of living holy , false hope they breed , Live in sin still , pull that cursed weed , Live like Cain in the Land of Nod , Gen. 4.18 . Wicked , How little have we lived to God ? The World lies in wickedness , admire then , Grace makes us differ from worst of Men : 1 Cor. 4.7 . Free grace I say did freely chuse us of pity , One of a Tribe , and also two of a City . Two Men equally miserable in their degree , To make a difference , in the Scripture see Nothing but free grace to man could be . Mat. 24.40 , 42. One taken of two grinding at the mill ; The other left , this is only free grace still , And not in the freedom of their own will . All this I say , Reader , to draw thy desire In holy obedience to God , and free grace admire : Even so , Father , Mat. 11.25 . for so it pleaseth thee To pass by the World 's Nimrods , and free To reveal Salvation to them of low degree . Thy good pleasure , the only cause that we Are chosen ; free grace , the Fountain-head , Joh. 15.16 . Whence our life springs that were dead Luk. 12.32 . In trespasses and sins , yea to God Enemies , Till reconcil'd by Christ's dying Sacrifice ; Without the Covenant Aliens , Eph. 2.5 , 12 , 13. made near By the blood of Christ , love Christ dear : He 's the spring of all good ; let obedience run In its proper Channel , live holy or undone . Tit. 2.14 . Adorn Protestant Religion , don't recant , Let thy conversation say art a Protestant , Rom. 6.19 , 22. Adorn the Doctrine of God our Saviour , Be a Protestant in thy life's behaviour ; Tit. 2.10 . Practise it , be not only a Protestant in name , So dishonour Religion in life , that 's shame . 2 Cor. 7.1 . Many are under notion of Protestant ; Yet no Religion in them ; if try'd , recant . Phil. 1.27 . Protestant Religion hath its foundation From Scripture , Heb. 11.35 , 36. stood many's life in the Nation So may again , tho' at present a tolleration . Therefore wait on God , and keep his way : Now all Beasts of the Forest go out for prey , Let 's do our duty , watch , and pray ; Psal. 37.34 . Let the wicked play out full their play ; Let him that is filthy be filthy still ; Rev. 22.11 . & 3.11 . Let Idolaters continue so if they will . But let him that 's a Protestant hold fast To the end , lest he lose the Crown at last . Well , art a Protestant , hold to the end , Fear thy own strength , on Christ depend . He is the true vine , except in him abide , Wilt bring forth no fruit , Joh. 15.2 . but go aside ; If hast gifts and parts able to dispute For Protestant Religion , able to confute Many errors , these fail in a tiring hour , If a Prison , a Halter should try thy power ; Nothing but an Int'rest in Christ and grace , Can carry thee on those things to embrace ; Luk. 22.23 , 60 , 61. 'T is easie to talk , to dispute when withstood , Not so easie matter to resist unto blood . I speak my own experience , Heb. 12.4 . I did try What fears on the Soul , when come to die : But when the comforting Spirit came in , No more doubts on my Soul were seen . Joh. 15.26 . God's power keeps us in our station , If God leaves , 1 Pet. 1.5 , 7. we never attain Salvation : Live a holy dependance on God always , By Christ's blood overcame , to him be praise That preserv'd us in those bloody days . Rev. 12.11 . Psal 27.13 . Praise God , my Soul , to him sing praise , That from so dreadful death did thee free , In whom I trust , 2 Cor. 1.9 , 10. he will yet deliver me .
SECT. XLIV . Thus , 2 Tim. 1.6 . friends , you see how my lines run , I have more to say before I have done ; To proceed , to them my lines have regard , That in heart and life look Sion-ward . Christ said in the World shall have trouble ; Joh. 16.33 . For any thing I know may be double What you have seen , let faith increase , Keep to your Centre , Eph. 6.10 , 11 , 12. you may have peace . God may make this season a time of trial , To see what we know of self-denial , We must deny our selves , Luk. 9.23 . life and all , If will be Christ's Disciples , observe his call . Take Christ's Cross , and rejoice withal . Consider what 's Cross is , don't be so apish , To think Christ's Cross is made like a Papish : 1 Cor. 1.18 , 19. They think a Cross , and a Crucifix all well , As if Crosses , Crucifixes , keep from Hell. Col. 2.14 . Consider , Protestants , what I you tell : I was in London , some Jesuit , no doubt , In vindication of Crosses a Paper set out ; The occasion this , some Crosses were worn In a shew on some Beasts Heads , and Horn. Indeed I will not encourage in such ways , Because I was never a lover of such Plays . But this Jesuit , for Cross , throws the Dice , Takes on him to give Protestants advice ; Tells us , must honour the Cross evermore , Isa. 5 20. In our Prayers , must the Cross adore ; If not , are worse than the Heathen Men , And not like Christians ; and also then Tells us of Constantine a Man so witty , Laid up the Cross for preservation of 's City ; If this be true , I wish some had been turn'd Of Crosses in London when it was burn'd . If any question , if Crosses there were any , At that time , I believe , were Crosses many ; Ay , Crosses , sure enough , but don't mistake , I mean such Crosses as the Papes make ; So that you see , Crosses don't preserve a City . The Jesuit also tells us , being politick witty , Of Chrysostom's , Augustin's , and Austin's faith ; But not a word of this St. Paul saith : No , no , that was not in his eyes , He for Tradition of old Fathers cries : So the Scripture , the Jesuit passeth by 's ; Joh. 4.20 . For no Crosses us'd in the Apostle's days , Nor Scripture pattern for such idle plays . No Crosses were us'd by Christ's hand , Nor by any example , or Scripture command . Of Crosses there is made no mention In the Scriptures , or Scripture intention ; These Crosses then are the Pope's invention . For Pagans never used Crosses in their way Of Idolatrous Worship in their day ; But us'd Surplice in Worship , History say . See the Original of Surplices derivation Mat. 15.9 . From Pagans , yet used by Priests in the Nation . Papists then to their Worship have this addition Of Crosses in their ways of Superstition , Which we not to receive on no condition ; We not to own what old Fathers say , If not according to Scripture rule and way . Jer. 9.14 . They were subject to errors in their day ; Therefore according to Scripture we obey . Alas , what are crosses and such idle toys , Beads and Crucifixes sit for idle Boys ? Do crosses make a Christian in Age or Youth ? Is this to worship God in Spirit and Truth ? Joh. 4.24 . To use Crosses in prayer is like conjuration , Better then praying by the Spirit 's operation . 1 Cor. 14.15 . What 's the Cross , tho' call'd by the Jesuit a sign Sacred , when against the thing signify'd combine , And oppose ? Oh! that under the Gospel-light , We should live such a darkness night ; Which will the World's Condemnation be , Love darkness rather than light , Joh. 3.19 . can't see Into the mystery of Godliness in its purity . Would the Jesuit take Scripture advice , Which is also mine , 't is better than his dice. Would he but read in love , and look , And consider what 's written in this book , Better advice than his , I am not mistook ; For I keep to the unerring rule of faith , Isa. 8.20 . The Scriptures , and not what Tradition saith . Now , Reader , if wilt a Scripture definition , Believe of Christ's Cross , Rom 10.15 . here 's the condition , Not according to humane vain tradition .
SECT. XLV . Christ's Cross is to forsake sin and blame And also to suffer for Christ's name , Phil 1.29 . Not live in sin , then take a Cross , that 's shame . Christ's Cross is to deny our life and all That 's near and dear , if Christ for it doth call . He that loveth Father , or Mother , or Wife More than Christ ; yea , Mat. 10.37 , 38. or his own life , Is not Christ's Disciple ; In the Scripture see , Christ faith , He is not worthy of me : Here 's Christ's Cross , how few Disciples be Take up this Cross , or attain this degree , Mark 8.34.35 . To deny all for Christ in holy sincerity ? In how few of the world doth it appear They forsake all for Christ ? yea , Children dear , Here 's the parting point , Luk. 9.23 , 24. take heed and see Nothing stand between Christ and thee ; Christ's Cross is , rather than sin desire In Shadrach , Meshach , Dan. 3.21 . & 6.16 . and Abednego's fire To be cast ; here 's Christ's Cross , I say agen , With Daniel to be cast in the Lion's Den Rather than sin ; here 's Christ's Cross , yonder , With the Primitive Christians sawn asunder , Heb 11.36 , 37. & 12 4. Rather than sin ; here 's the World's wonder . To strive against sin , to resist unto blood , Here 's Christ's Cross , if rightly understood : This Cross to most is not pleasing good . Now , Reader , that thou may'st suffer no loss , Be well advised who takes up this Cross ; 1 Pet. 3.14 , 17. If wilt be Christ's Disciple , observe his call , In taking Christ's Cross , don't sin withal ; 'T is not the blood makes a Martyr , understand , But suffering according to Christ's command : 1 Pet. 4.15 , 16. Therefore , for thy Soul 's good , a word I offer , When truth is oppos'd , then call'd to suffer , Or not to be filent , therefore put to trial , Lest our lives be of Christ a denial ; Mat. 10.32 . Then are we called our lives to deny For Christ's truth , and Christ will stand by ; Also when Sin and Sufferings us surround , That we can't get out , but be found , Either complying , or on denying ground ; Then are we call'd to suffer , and herein To chuse sufferings rather than sin . Heb. 11.25 . In suffering , receive it not as a Story ; Let it not be for self , but God's glory . If you suffer for Christ's int'rest , rejoice Under suffering , take heed of a murmuring voice ; 1 Cor. 10.10 . And farther , let me be so understood , See thy call clear , and right cause good . Now , Reader , how lik'st this definition ? Is this Cross like Papists us'd in Superstition ? They use many Crosses unto this day , Yea , when say their Pater noster , or pray : To use Crosses in Worship is not Christ's way , But the way of Antichrist , Scriptures say , Who hath required this at your hands , Mark. 7.7 . To make an addition to God's Commands ? Deut 42. To take a Cross in my hand is an easie way To Heaven , could I believe what Papists say . Paul glory'd in Christ's Cross in his heart , Gal. 6.14 . Not sign on his fore-head , that 's Papists Art : Christ's Cross wrought Paul's conversion , and Desir'd Christ crucisi'd , Act. 9.3 , 4. to understand , Not a Cross and a Crucifix in his hand ; No , no , were no Crosses us'd in his days , Nor Scripture Precept for such idle Plays . 1 Cor. 2.2 . A Cross , a Crucifix in hand easie to take , Do they work conversion , so sin forsake , Or live in all uncleanness ; Rom 6.6 . then do this Swear , drunk , then Crucifix sweetly kiss ? If so , of Heaven you will surely miss : All that practise this , my lines do tell For all their Crosses , Gal 5.21 . Crucifixes , go to Hell : Then live by faith , not by Cross ; I tell By Faith only , Eph. 3.17 . Christ in us doth dwell ; By Virtue of Christ , my heart is renew'd ; By his Spirit 's operation , Rom. 12.2 . my sin 's subdu'd : Not by Cross Papists make , Col. 2.12 . my lines cry , That 's made by the workers of iniquity . Gal. 2.20 . & 5.24 . Cast off wickedness and be holy , my lines imply , England's best Crucifix is sin to crucifie : A Cross doth no good , when come to die ; Then live holy for all the Cross , 2 Cor. 7 1. say I. But not to enlarge on Crucifixes so gross , Lest enlargement , Reader , be to thee a Cross . I will conclude this Head against Idolatry , Would not have Protestants with Cross comply . Rom. 10.14 .
SECT. XLVII . Stand fast , Protestants , 1 Cor. 16.13 . since God hath made You his people , do not walk retrograde : Eph. 6.14 . Let not any reproach that can be nam'd Jam. 1.21 . Make you Apostate , lest Christ of you 's asham'd . Woe to any , when Christ is on 's Throne , Who in that Day , Christ is asham'd to own , Mark 8.38 . What , tho' the world rejoice and vaunt , Against the despised , rejected Protestant ? Joh. 16.20 . Altho' , now Protestants seem much affected , Yet 't is question , whether in heart respected . Psal. 12.2 . Dissenting Protestants , I mean , how they Seem now reviv'd , and bear some sway , I fear a Cloud in latter end of the day ; Therefore , be not presumptious , watch and pray . Stand fast , Protestants , against the Pope , Psal 118.6 . Fear not the biggest hatchet in all 's shop , Mat. 10.28 . Fear not the Pope , nor his bloody rope . Lev. 19.4 & 26.1 . Fear not to own Protestant Religion , stand Since have a tolleration by the King's hand : Improve the Mercy , Protestants , stand fast , That Christ may be our friend at last . Own Protestant Profession , Scripture saith , Edifie one another in the holy faith : Jud. 20. Let 's not set our hand unto God's Plough , And look back , God will not that allow ; Luk. 9.62 . Yet many Men look back , even now , Like Water men , I could tell you how , They look one way , and the other row . Janus-like , many such in our Nation , Are for their own int'rest and reputation : Act. 19.24 , 25. Many Men care not for the smile of God , If they can enjoy the World ; so odd Are they in their lives , and herein Count it Wisdom to sleep in whole skin . Time-servers , if the world they inherit , Contented , sensual , having not the Spirit ; Jud. 19. If they enjoy the mercies of a Bruit , Fat Pasture , Peace , they will turn to 't , Are for a part in Paradise , sin and vice , Enjoy the World , care not for Paradise . Many have Jacob's smooth tongue , Gen. 27.22 . and Talk well , but have Esau's rough hand : Many have great notions , high speculations ; But in life , heart , corrupt conversations ; They profess much , like Angels of light , But do deeds of darkness ; heart 's not right ; 2 Cor. 11.14 . When Religion 's countenanc'd by Authority , then Forward in way of Profession , no such Men ; If Religion is shut at , Sun don't shine , Come a storm on Religion , Joh 6.27 . then decline ; If the Gospel be not for their advance , Farewel Religion , after worldly int'rest dance , As true in our days , as my name's Husnance . Many such in England , who like the Mass , Are for their int'rest in the World ; 2 Tim. 4.10 . alas , Experience tells , how from Religion pass : Profess much , go to the high Priest's Hall , And then if try'd , deny Christ and all ; Tho' Christ , the Gospel , in word don't deny , Yet when in question , Mat. 26.56 , 57 , 58. with the world comply : This is following Christ afar off , and Many such followers are in England ; The experience of this , Joh. 6.66 . we had of late ; In Person , Men ; in action , Devils incarnate : How they were by many accommodated , Had love , when many others were hated ; How many did comply with sin and evil ? Rejoice with such , Rom. 1.32 . were as bad 's the Devil : Pretend love to Christ , Jam. 4.4 . yet part will take With sin and evil , so Christ in action forsake ; I confess it was a tiring time in the Nation , And Scripture tells of an hour of temptation , Rev. 3.10 . Which shall try all that on Earth do dwell , Who shall be for Heaven , and who for Hell ; Therefore in thy heart false hopes don't breed , God renders every Man according to his deed . What profit then , Rom. 2.6 . if the whole world gain , And lost their Souls in everlasting pain ? Mat. 16.26 . 'T is true , now 's a toleration , they seem alive ; But come a storm , run like Bees into a Hive : Are for Religion is uppermost , come Turk , 2 Cor. 4.4 . To keep their int'rest in the world are sor't . What 's the end of those things ? I cry , Heb. 10.38 . What ' world , or Men's favour , when must die ? Therefore , mind death , and believe eternity . Job 36.19 .
SECT. XLVII . Consider what 's said , take it in good part , 2 Pet. 3.12 . I aim at good , I speak it with my heart : To Apostate is dreadful , as said before ; Also , without in Christ , miserable poor . Rev. 3.17 . A word I have to say to some Men more , And it is to them , who do lay aside Holiness in Practice , to do duty can't abide ; Tit. 1.16 . Instead of doing duty to God in Prayer , By faith in Christ , this they don 't desire ; But in false Presumption , they still aspire , Delight wallowing in sin , as the Sow in mire . 2 Pet. 2.22 . Christ dy'd for Sinners , all 's done by Christ , So take liberty to sin , live as they list . That in Men's lives this should be found ! Shall we sin , because grace doth abound ? Rom. 6.15 . God forbid , yet many such in our nation , Say , Christ died for Sinners in their station , So live still a sinful conversation . Rouze Man , in false hope don't still sleep , Whatsoever Man soweth , that shall he reap : Gal 6.7 . God renders every Man according to his deed , Rom. 2 4 , 5 , 6. Then don't false presumption always breed ; The point of distinction by the standing rod , He doth not Righteousness , is not of God. 1 Joh. 3.10 . Remember what 's said before ; when sick , Don't you send for a Physician very quick , As a means for health ; the cause is sad , Use means for the Body ; yet like Men mad Use none for the Soul , but conclude the end , Yet exclude the means ; Oh! do not pretend Hopes for Heaven , and still in thy sin lie , This will bring eternal death , Job 8.13 . my lines cry , Or else I for thee will eternally die . Heb. 12.14 . God fits us by his Word and Spirit alone , Dost use the means , or else use none ? God sits us by duty , by faith in prayer , Dost use duty , 2 Pet. 1.10 . or else to duty no desire ? Up , and be doing thy duty by reflection , For action speaks out Man's affection ; To what a Man hath a heart , he hath a hand , If Man love Christ , Joh 14.15 . he will keep 's command , And not live in sin and wickedness still , So to excuse his sin , say , hath not free will ; 'T is idle talk and fancy , meer dreams , 'T is Satan fill Men's hearts with such extremes . Act. 5.3 . There is a defect in will , but more in heart ; With the heart Man believes , Rom. 10.10 . from sin depart . Take heed what thoughts with thee lurks , We are created in Christ unto good works : Eph. 2.10 . We can't partake of sin's cup of evils , And the Lord's cup , 1 Cor. 10 21. and the cup of Devils , Saith Scripture , therefore mind it well , Can't enjoy Heaven , and keep way of Hell : Cast off false hope , remember what I tell , Heaven must enter thy heart here by grace , Or never enjoy Heaven , that 's a holy place ; As you hope for Salvation , Heb. 12.14 . Holiness embrace , Up , and be doing in thy earthly race , Practise holiness , don't God's Image deface . Well doing makes happy , said Christ the Son , All Gospel promises in this channel run , Well doing only meets with a well done . Well done , Mat 25.23 . good and saithful , saith the word , Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord , If you know those things Scriptures record , Joh. 13.17 . Happy are ye , if do them , saith the word ; 'T is a slight happiness to know in our station , But know and do , that leads to Salvation : A Man may know much , yet be so evil , In his life , 1 Joh. 3 8. a member of the Devil . Satan knows so much , if not more than any ; Know , and not do , is the sin of many , And are like Satan in this , Scripture saith , The Devils tho' wicked , yet have faith : Jam. 2.19 . Don't rest in a meer notional speculation , But know and practise it in conversation . He overcomes sin , shall have a new name , Rev. 3.12 . Answer the end of Christ , dying for shame . Take heed of false hope , for God is just , Don't think Christ dy'd to maintain lust ; But to live righteously , godly in our station , Tit. 2.12 . Without which , no evidence for Salvation ; We must work in the Vineyard hard , Before we can have our peny for reward ; Mat. 20.2 . Not a reward of merit , but of free grace , All are not call'd to work in their race , Good works are evidences of Regeneration ; Not that we merit , 't is but qualification Col. 1.12 . By Christ alone , as said before , is Salvation . If love your Souls , live a holy Conversation , Fight the good fight of faith in our Station , 2 Tim. 4.7 . That we may obtain Faith's end , Salvation . 1 Pet. 1.9 . Walk circumspectly , Eph. 5.15 , 16. don't run in a hurl Of Uncleanness , Luke-warmness with the World : Redeem time , the days so evil are , they To depart from evil , makes Man a Prey ; Isa. 59.14 , 15. & 45.22 . Get on spiritual Armour , make good play , Before comes to Canaan , Anakins in the way . You can't tell what times may afford , Stir up thy faith , depend on the Lord By faith , expect fulfilling of his word ; Then fear , lest instead of Peace , a Sword : Observe the times , tho' peace be pretended ; Mat. 24.34 , 10. & 18.7 . Yet before Christ's coming , many offended . Now 's a liberty of Conscience in the Nation , Yet many offended with the Toleration ; Especially Priests , how they in heart jarr , Yet Bishops , the cause of Trouble and War . Jer 23.1 , 2. Many others discontented , yet sin don't cease , As our sins , so troubles will increase , Isa. 57.20 . Because to the wicked , there 's no peace . No content with few in the Nation , 'T is fulfilling Scriptures in their Station , Mat. 24.34 . And threatens unto England desolation , Or Judgments in a severe dispensation . Now we have liberty , let us be active , Provide for a Storm ; Mat. 6.20 . like Bees are alive In a fair day , gather Honey into their Hive . Now provide for your Souls in this calm , Luk. 12.33 . Be earnest with God , lest end in a storm . As sure , as Scripture's true , can't stand long : To provide for your Souls is no wrong . Don't think I have reflection on the King. Isa. 59.1 , 2 , 3. No , no , 't is sin , that evil cursed thing , That Judgments on People and Nations bring , Hath sometimes destroy'd People and King ; 1 Sam. 12.25 . Judgments are fruit of sin's production ; Yet , 1 Thes. 5.3 . some cry peace , when sudden destruction .
SECT. XLVIII . Say some , before you pass on your way , A word or two of mortality to us display . To answer your desire , consider what I say , As motives to make sure Election ; 2 Pet. 1.10 . don't delay , But from the practice of all sin , hast away Before Death comes , Heb. 9.27 . and the Judgment-day ; When Death comes , must to Heaven or Hell Immediately ; therefore , consider what I tell , According unto grace given , 2 Tim. 2.7 . as present light , I will lay truth very plain in your sight . Consider mortality , as thy Glass doth run : To die , Man , is but to be once done . If we err in that action , Eccl. 9.10 . woe , say I , Unto us , we are undone everlastingly . Either we enjoy Heaven or Hell , Luk 16 23. not Purgatory : Let 's not cheat our Souls with such a story . The Prayers of all Men can't bring one to glory , Without int'rest in Christ , can't be of 's Auditory : Therefore , Deut. 32.29 . have thy end ever in thy eye ; In all thy actions , consider well Eternity ; For as Death shall be well , or ill ended , With either endless joy , Luk 23.43 . or sorrow is attended . Mind death , and thy Soul's joy , or misery , 'T is attended with eternal flames , or felicity . Luk. 16.24 . Therefore , consider death , my lines cry , Secure thy int'rest in Christ before you die ; Without reconciliation to God by Christ , say I , Mat. 3.17 . We are undone forever , to all eternity . The wise Virgins went with the Bridegroom : & 25.4.10 . The door was shut , had their eternal doom : They that were ready , did behold Christ's face ; Happy you , Verse . 3. if whilst the door of grace Is open , are found ready for Heaven's place . Woe , if door be shut , Preparation to make ; No Oil in lamp , must into the burning lake ; Rev. 20.15 . Then in life , thy lusts and sins forsake . Do that now , whilst life , which , say I , Would'st wish had'st done , when come to die . Numb. 23.10 . Know what mak'st for thy everlasting peace : Let uncertainty of death diligence increase . Uncertain as to death's time or hour ; Mat. 24.42 , 44. When Christ send 's death , can't stop 's power . Nothing so certain as death , saith my Rhyme : Heb. 9.27 . Nothing more uncertain , as to its time . Of coming into the World , look about , Is but one way , but many of going out . Consider , at death thy immortal Soul alone , Must go , 2 Cor. 5.10 . and appear before the Throne Of Christ , Rom. 2.6 . who will render every one According to his works ; Rev. 20.12 . then don't delay To make thy peace with God in Christ , pray The Judge to befriend you in that day . Consider , what would'st wish had'st done , When come to die , therefore to Christ run . God will not be pleas'd , but in his Son. Mat. 17.5 . Depend on Christ in life , and he will smile , Make us happy , tho' by nature , Sinners vile ; Therefore , watch , saith Scripture , and pray ; For to Salvation , Christ is the only way . Act. 4.12 . For mercy , you will cry , when come to die : Oh! then , take the way of Mercy speedily . Psal. 119.60 . You know not how unfit you may be For Repentance , when death shall seize thee . Luk. 19.6 . This for truth , you may see very plain , Many in sickness , are overcome with pain . All friends can do , is often in vain . Can 't ease the Body , Job . 16.2 . much less the Soul : Miserable comforters , they may be all . What tumblings , what pains in the head , And can't make use of a bit of bread ? Is this a time to repent ? Is this a season To believe , when often depriv'd of reason , And assaulted by the King of Terror , Job . 18.4 . With thoughts of sin fill'd with horror ? Then Satan , and all Powers of Darkness swell Against thee to bring thy Soul to Hell ; When in sickness , thou art near thy end , Then will Satan to accuse thee attend . Satan is call'd the Brethren's Accuser , Rev. 12.10 . he Envies Man's happiness , in Scripture , see . Satan goes to and fro the World's Globe To destroy Souls , see in the cause of Job And others : Job . 1.7 . His name Legion , many at command , To resist , or accuse , stands at Saint's right hand . Oh! fear his snares , don't thy self delude , He 's a lying Spirit , Zech. 3.1 . hath destroy'd a multitude . Satan , like a roaring Lion , doth not delay To destroy Souls ; then in this thy day , Whilst hast health , keep out of his way ; In sickness , 1 Pet. 5.8 . not capable to defend his Play , Acts all his subtilty to make thee his Prey : Like a cunning Gamester , 2 Cor. 2.11 . at a dead lift stand Against thee ; unless Christ hold thy hand , Wilt be cast , Luk. 22.32 . then obey Christ's Command . Work out Salvation in fear and trembling ; Live to Christ , cast off dissembling : No Repentance after death in way of Salvation , Therefore , live holy in thy Generation . Consider , when in this life , run thy race , Thy Soul carries nothing with it but grace ; When separate from the Body , comes in place , To receive Sentence according to its deed Done in the Body , 2 Cor. 5.10 . false hope do not breed . Make thy peace with God on good ground , No Salvation , without in Christ found . Walk by Christ's rule , and daily direction ; Joh. 14.6 . Watch thy heart , depend on Christ's protection ; Mortifie thy Members , which to sin move , Col. 3.5 . Pride , Covetousness , and also self love : Strangle thy lusts , fear God , and herein , Stand at Sword 's point against beloved sin ; Those sins to which by nature most prone , Prov. 14.12 , 13. Let not any loved sin in thy Soul alone ; Those sins which did'st delight with gladness , At death turn into sorrow and sadness : Luk. 6.25 . No more pleasing the flesh , no more joy In sin , those things will thy Soul Destroy . All vain pleasure and sinful laughter At death depart , and Judgment comes after ; Heb 9.27 . Then all thy secret sins at Death stand , Conscience open'd with a Sword in 's hand , To accuse of the breach of every Command ; Rom. 2.15 . Without an int'rest in Christ , understand All thy thoughts , words , and sinful actions ; Rom. 2.16 . Yea , thy secret sins , and vile affections Will be presented to thy view and memory . Before death begins to close a Sinner's eye , His Conscience is open , and begins to cry , Oh! quiet it now with Christ's Blood , say I. Heb. 9.14 . Get an int'rest in Christ before thou die ; His merit to thy Soul by faith apply ; For without the Wedding garment mute . Mat. 22.12 . Go ye cursed , is a very sad salute ; Eternal death and misery is sin's fruit . Rom. 6.23 . Oh! live to Christ before it be too late , On a moment depends thy eternal State ; Jam. 4.14 . Whilst hast life , consider this word Everlasting : Mind Death , for when thy eyes are blasting , To all worldly comforts , death puts an end , Take Christ for Refuge , make him thy friend , By holy resignation unto Holiness attend . Heb. 12.14 . Prize time and life , also remember this , After death , no mending what is amiss In thy Soul ; for as the Tree doth fall , So it lies ; Eccl. 11.3 . as death leaves us , so we shall Receive Sentence , Rom. 14.12 . accordingly be judg'd all . Then live to Christ , Act. 17.31 . whilst here remain , That after death , with Christ may'st live again .
SECT. XLIX . Consider farther what 's said concerning body , 2 Tim. 2.14 . As well as Soul , don't live a wicked noddy : Observe , not only thy Soul is immortal , But also thy Body , understand this exhortal ; Tho' thy Body die , as to its first being , Yet intentionally is immortal , seeing It lies in the Grave but till the Resurrection ; None but Sadduces can deny it by rejection . For this mortal , 1 Cor. 15.53 , 54. must put on immortality : This is a Mystery , which Scriptures discry , That the Body doth not die eternally ; Col. 1.26 . But in the Grave , till Resurrection doth lie : And then , Soul and Body , 't is very plain In Scripture , shall be reunited again . Oh! Col. 1.21 . to the 23. verse . happy , if in Christ , Oh! then , what joy To Soul and Body , nothing shall annoy ; If lived holy , then Soul and Body rejoice , As a Bride doth , Joh. 3.29 . to hear the Bridegrooms voice . Happy then those Bodies , that do not yield Their Members , Rom. 7.12 , 13. as Instruments of Sin 's Field . But unto Righteousness their Members apply ; If not , Soul and Body must eternally die : The Body by Christ's power shall appear , The Soul come with trembling and fear ; The Body from the Grave , Joh. 5.27 . to the 29. verse . the Soul from Hell , If wicked , consider this , and mind it well : What 's to indure God's wrath , none can tell ; Dreadful for Body , Psal. 90.11 . and Soul to live in Hell. What a woful and miserable salutation , When Soul and Body must to desolation , Oh labour how to prevent it in thy Generation , Mat. 10.28 . That forever have their eternal doom . Oh! & 25.6 . then , whilst life , meet the Bridegroom , Christ Jesus , unto him by saving faith fly ; Get Oil in thy lamp , Christ's merits apply . Live in life unto Christ by holy dependancy ; Remember thy Body lives again , tho' it die ; Job 14.14 . Then not only for thy Soul's Salvation , reflect ; But also thy Bodies eternal welfare respect . Consider this , do not think 't is a Story ; If no grace , whilst in this Body , no glory . Heb. 12.14 . Let me tell thee , they are as Brother , One can't be happy without the other : Rom. 6.12 . Seeing the Body must have an eternal being With the Soul , & 8.10 , 13. then in thy life be freeing Thy Bodies corruptions , prepare like a Bride , Rev. 21.2 . To entertain thy Soul , since they divide But for a time ; Soul must again inherit The Body . From filthiness of flesh and spirit , 2 Cor. 7.1 . Cleanse thy self , and present thy Body A living Sacrifice ; Rom. 12.1 . not like a polluted noddy Of Sin , 't will not be acceptable unto God : Live holy in Body , fear God's eternal Rod. Mat. 6.31 . to the 33 verse . Don't make those things eternal by abuse , For punishment , that can't be eternal for use . Seeing thy Body , as well as thy Soul Must live eternally : On then in all Thy actions , have eternity in thy eye . Remember , and consider , tho' thy Body die , Deut. 32.29 . It must live again unto all eternity .
SECT. L. Some may say , Object . Which hath the great'st hand In sin , the Soul or Body I would understand : That the Body defiles the Soul , by the way , Sol. Or is the only subject of sin , I can't say : Yet the immediate original derivation Of sin unto us , Men and Women , in station , Is only by our bodily Generation , From Adam , Gen. 4.1 , 2. as a means of sin's propagation In the World by death , hath it's abrogation ; By sin came death , and observe herein , The Body must die as the fruit of sin . For Flesh and Blood cannot inherit ; 1 Cor. 15.50 . Therefore , the Body dies , and only the Spirit , The Soul is capable of joy or misery , Upon dissolution of the body immediately . Luk. 16.23 . But some may say , Object . as they pass by , For the Bodies Sin , Why must the Soul die ? The Soul is principal in Man , Sol. and chief , Is confederate with the body , as a Thief In sin , so partakes in joy or grief ; Also consider , when I have said all I can , The Soul is principal , 1 Cor. 14.20 . and cheif in Man ; Without it , Man were but a sensitive Creature ; Reason , Understanding , adorn Man's feature , The Understanding , Psal. 49 20. and Conscience at least , Without which , the Body were as the Beast : As to its first being , the Soul capable of grace ; Then with thy Body , Rom. 6.6 . don't thy Soul deface . Live holy to God in thy life's desire , Lest Soul and Body be cast into Hell fire . Mat. 10 28. Don't live in sin still , like a wicked noddy , Mind not only thy Soul , but also Body . I mean it 's eternal welfare , seeing must Live again , Job 19.26 . after 't is turned unto Dust . I need not say , mind thy Body's preservation , As to its present being in thy Generation . Most Men and Women in their station Are for the present being : Oh! how prone And careful for the Body is every one ? Phil 2.21 . What pains Men and Women take , and care For the Bodies temporal being , don't spare Any pains , when the Soul hath no share , Nor Body neither , as to its eternal welfare , Cloth the Body , Mat. 6.31 . when their Souls go bare . For a temporal being , every thing in 's place , For the Body , Rev 3.5 . when the Soul hath no grace : The Body daintily fed , and neatly dress'd ; When to it 's eternal welfare , no care express'd . In life for a present State , art such a lover , When no Wedding-garment the Soul to cover , Mat. 22.12 . How sad to see , under a beautiful face , A deformed Soul , for want of grace ; Therefore consider Reader , Psa. 119.37 . what I unfold When thou thy self , dost in a Glass behold : 2 Cor. 3.18 . Remember , when in thy dress , mind it well , Say 't is pitty such as I , should go to Hell ; Be holy , in Soul and Body , in grace excel . Cast off thy pride , Jam. 4.6 . and the Lord intreat For Salvation , of Soul , and Body compleat , Thy Body should be , the Spirits Temple alone , By Redemption , you are not your own . Glorify God , in thy Body , take this advice , 1 Cor. 6.19.20 . For Soul , and Body , are bought with a price ; Then Read , Hear and Pray , as for eternity , Believe , Repent , and Practice , my lines Cry , Knowing , you must live , or dye eternally , Mat. 25.46 . Understand then what my lines imply Care for thy Body , with respect to Eternity . Take my advice , don't cast it by rejection , Mind thy Body , must have a Resurrection , Which will augment thy Joy or Misery , When Soul and Body must everlastingly Joy in Gods presence , Psa. 16.11 . in the heavens high , Or under his wrath , in Hell for ever lye . Joh. 3.36 . Then whilst in the body , of sin repent , Resurrection , will Joy , Luk. 15.3 . or Sorrow augment Though the Souls of the Righteous have great Consolation , yet 't is not so compleat , Till the resurrection , to give another pull , Heb. 11.40 . Reuniting of Soul and Body , makes Joyful When Conformable to , Christs glorious body , Phil. 3.10 , 21. Remember this , don't live a wicked noddy ; Care for thy body , in its earthly race , 1 Tim. 6.12 . Mind Eternity , don't give sensuality place Whilst life , 2 Tim. 4.7 , 8. act thy strength and force At death man hath , finished his course .
Sect. 51. REader , how do you , 2 Tim. 2.14 . like this sallet These are not fancies , as in a Poets Ballad , My aim is , thy Souls , and Bodies advance In way of Salvation , and from sins ignorance ; Then pray for me , who am poor husnance And before we part , Jam. 5.16 . or our way divide , I will display briefly , Covetousness and Pride , Because they are sins , we all , rightly appli'd , Are guilty of , in our lives , can't be deni'd Other sins are plainer , Gal. 5.17 . to 21. in mens generation , As Drunkenness , Swearing , Idolatry , Dissimulation , Lying , Cheating , Murder , and sometimes Fornication , And other sins , are more visible in station ; Though Pride , Covetousness , be not such a ranger In sight , yet by it , our salvation is in danger There is no sin worse , in any mans station , Than pride , Prov. 16.5 . the proud in heart are abomination Unto the Lord , saith Scripture Revelation Neither is there any man in 's generation But hath some Reliques , in 's Conversation , Of this sin pride in heart , by exaltation , Yea the best of men , have some inclination To this sin pride , especially , if things divide And all things go well , on their side , As Hezekiahs heart , 2 Chron. 32.25 . was lifted up by pride , There is no man , but hath this sin to hide In his heart , therefore take heed of pride : The Seed Plot of this vice , is mans heart Not in Apparel or Riches , my lines impart These are but the effects , of this thing Pride ; a begger may be , as proud as a King : Therefore , take heed of pride , in thy Station God knoweth thy very heart , Heb. 4.13 . and inclination , Be not like those , which my lines descry , The proud glorieth in all his prosperity , Job 12.4 . And scorneth the upright in his adversity ; The Enemies of David , did him deride , Nodded their heads , Psa. 22.7 . at him only by pride Pride makes men desire the uppermost seats In Synagogues , and Feasts , with Regreets Of Right Hand , Mat. 23.6 , 7. and Walls , in the Streets Men look , for much respect , by Pride alone From other men , when they deserve none ; Pride makes men boast , of their descent , John 8.39 . By pride there is very much discontent In the World , and in our days very frequent . The Wife opposeth the Husband , 1 Pet. 3.1.6 . by pride Children , their Parents sometimes , can't abide ; Eph. 6.1.5 By pride the Servant , his Master doth offend , Pride , maketh the Landlord , to contend With the Tenant , Pro. 13.10 . Pride Separates a Brother One Neighbour goeth to law , with another By pride , till the Lawyer , their mony smother . Pride many times , causeth the superiour to trample , and hector , on his inferiour ; Psa. 10.2 . Pride causeth many , vile wicked Jarrs . Raiseth one nation , against another in Wars Sometimes pride , appeareth in apparel And in behaviour , sometimes causes a quarrel : Isa. 3.16 . to v. 23. What monsters , some make themselves by pride If God should create them so , 't is impli'd Many Men and Women , would have cri'd , Pro. 30.13 . Pride into extreams doth men often hurl , Pride is a wicked evil , in the world , Pride in the wicked is , of such a degree That against the Godly , they malicious be David said , The proud , are risen against me . Psa. 86.14 . The Learned Doctors , of the Law , by Pride To have Christ preach , could not abide Because Jesus Christ , Mar. 6.3 . was a Carpenters Son And not bred , as their pride did run In the learning , of the Scribes so deem'd Christ , as to outward appearance , was esteem'd , His divinity in Humanity , was to them a story , The Chief Priests and Rulers , did not see his glory , Mat. 26.59 . They were puft up , with their learned pride That Jesus Christ by them was cast aside And are the same , unto this day by pride , and 27.20 . Christ in a poor man , the high Priests can't abide . By reason of pride , the Bishops still contend And oppose Christ in his people , yet pretend Christs ministers : dreadful is their end , Pride only was , Jud. 6. the wicked angels fall Pride cast Adam , out of paradice with all , Pride led proud Haman , such a dance That at last , Esther 7.9 . the gallows , was his advance . Pride made the rich man , fare deliciously , But when dead , in hell lift up his eye And for a drop of water , Luk. 16.24 . he did cry : Oh therefore be humble , mind humility , We have sin'd by pride , reader thee and I , And all Men , and Women , as my lines imply Either , by an external , or spiritual pride Which without watching , our hearts hide This sin ; therefore , take heed of secret pride . Learn of Christ , Mat. 11.29 . to be humble , and pray , And Christ will guide thee Salvations way , Be humble , and depend on Christ , I say , By Faith , Psa. 25.9 . and thou shalt not , go astray ; The humble , in their Judgment , God will guide , Gives grace to them by spirits operation appli'd , Jam. 4.6 . But abhors the proud , oh take heed of pride .
Sect. 52. NOw Reader , consider what 's said , of pride , And Covetousness , Jer. 13.15 . I will bring by its side : For Pride and Covetousness go together , Most times , in Men and Women , are as brother , Ambition , and avarice , are birds of a feather , They are both links , of the same Chain , The Covetous man , Eph. 5.5 . is an Idolater plain , His heart being set , upon desire of gain . Whatsoever , a man sets his heart on More than on God , if his affections run , Inordinate on vanity without a bridle Of moderation , that is only mans Idol ; A Covetous man , Col. 3.5 . is an Idolater so odd What his heart is most set on is his God , Desire is the beginning , of this evil , And promotion , the end is from the Devil ; The Covetous man , blesseth himself in all He hath , and sings a Requiem , to his Soul , Thou hast much goods , laid up in store , Luk. 12.16 . to 21. When the Soul is most miserable poor For want of grace , see rich glutton before . A Covetous man , is commonly an oppressor , Cares not , how of what 's anothers , is possessor , Covetousness , spurs men to unjust action , For gain is from , inordinate affection This sin is originally , from the Devil , Desire of money , is the root of all evil : 1 Tim. 6.10 . He that desireth , and Coveteth gain Will leave no way , unattempted , 't is plain , So he may his covetous end attain ; Jesabel she did , subborn false accusation , 1 King. 21.9 , 10. Against Naboth , for his vineyard or habitation , See the cruel desire , of Covetous Station David will slay Vriah , to marry his Wife , 2 Sam. 11.14 . to the end . Gehazi will tell a lye , to Naaman in 's life For love of Silver , Covetousness was so rife ; By Lying , Murder , Oppression you , see plain , 2 King. 5.20 . to 23. Men commit , the worst of sins , for gain ; And to accomplish , their covetous end Care not how , or what way they offend : The life of the owner , without any delay For gain , Covetous men will take away , Covetous men , not content with what they have , But the more riches , the more they Crave ; Like the Grave , barren Womb , Earth , Fire , Pro. 30.16 . So insatiate , are Covetous mens desire , To gain earthly things , will with Saphira lye , Act. 5.8 . Achans Wedge of Gold , they can't pass by , Murder with Achan with Judas will betray , For love of the world , they run hells way , The Worlds love , kept those invited , at least From coming , unto the great marriage feast , Luk. 14.17 . Love of the world is like a wicked Charm , One could not come , Covetousness bought a farm , Another , v. 18. worlds love , had married a Wife , Therefore he could not come for his life : A third had bought , v. 20. Yoke of Oxen must try Them so from coming they all pass by ; Take heed worlds love , v. 19. don't so by us I Cry , We too guilty of this sin , reader thee and I 'T is like David , hath ten thousand slain Consider it , and inordinate love refrain With the heart we are said , to forsake God Not with our feet , when affections so odd Are set on sins vanity , in the Land of Nod , This is forsaking the Creator , Eph. 4.17 . and herein To be estranged from God in heart no greater sin , Though we may not be guilty , so compleat ; Of Covetousness , to commit Murder , Satans feat As some others , or oppression , let 's not Cheat Our Souls , because not sinners so great , As some others are , Pro. 23.26 . but who hath thy heart ; God or the World most , fear this will part , God and thy Soul , that mind earthly things ; More than God , everlasting death brings Covetousness is an evil root , Phs . 3.19 . of a bad tree , Which bringeth forth evil fruit , you see ; Covetousness makes the Judge , in 's degree Judge for reward ; Mica . 7.2.3 . when money comes free , Stiffles Conscience , till in Hells misery ; Covetousness , makes the Lawyer for a see , Plead right or wrong , all for money he The cause good or bad , Luk. 11.46 . will a Sollicitor be , Will make a Cause strong , though it wear weak , But if purse be dumb , his tongue can't speak . Wo unto Lawyers as the Scriptures tell , When with their brother Dives , in Hell , Then they will reflect , on all the wrong They have done many , all their life long When Cry for water , Luk. 16.23.24 . to Cool their tongue Oh Consider Lawyers , then this among What profit when have plaid your Game ; When Cry I am tormented , in this flame ? The Priests also is , for Covetousness plain Like Balaam Priests , are greedy for gain For Cruelty , have gone the way of Cain Without money few Priests would remain ; Mica . 3.12 . Bishops and Priests , all preach for hire The wages of unrighteousness , they desire , Little Consider , Judah in Tophets Fire : Isa. 30.33 . To Covetousness all men , almost aspire . Covetousness makes Tradesmen from truth evade , Act. 19.25 . Many lies for gain , acted in every Trade ; What profit , if the whole world gain And lose their Souls , Mat. 16.26 . in everlasting pain Oh think then , what 't is will you stand Instead , when Judg'd by the almighty hand , 2 Cor. 5.10 . Don't after vanity so much be at strife Labour for that endures to eternal life Joh. 6.27 . Oh Cast off Sin , in Conversation I Cry , Whether Rich or Poor , Col. 1.27 . as my lines imply To conclude this head of Covetousness and Also of pride , Reader , this understand Pride and Covetousness bear a great sway Consider how true meaning doth decay . 1 Cor. 10.15 .
Sect. 53. COme on Reader , in love if thou please , I 'le shew greater abominations than these Ezek. 8.15 . Oh what a Troop of Weepers I desery , Of Widows , Fatherless , Exiles in my Eye , Isa. 59.4.14 . As Prisoners who were condemned to dye , By that bloody wretch Jefferies my lines imply , By him mens lives been bought and sold Without money death like Sheep of a fold Mica . 7.2 . That in England for truth should be told But vengeance hath Jefferies for it now in hold Also for money Jefferies had a new supply For those exil'd if any had money to buy , 'T was hanging Forenoon and Judging the After , Hab. 3.14 . Oppression for money made Jefferies laughter : 'T is fulfilling Scripture though the Prophet's dead , Buy and sell my people as they eat bread ; Judge asketh a reward , Psa. 53.4 . great mens desire Was to Crush the poor most did conspire , Consult together for money were so greedy , So wrapt up or of your lives we speed ye Mica . 7.3 . First to take many lives they did debate Then after hanging their Goods and Estate ; Jer. 30.20 . This to the Lord for vengeance did Cry , Though did seem nothing to some pass by Hos. 4.1 . 2. Yet Jehovah hath heard the oppressed , say I , Though wicked men are not rid immediately , Yet as sure as Gods word in Scripture's true Sin of oppression vengeance will pursue Oppression in Justice blood toucheth blood Jer. 23.10 . For Swearing England , mourns sin not withstood Murther , drunkenness common in the Nation , Covetousness , Pride , Idolatry and Fornication Besides Hypocrisie , Gal. 5.19 . to 21. Formality , Dissimulation , Of many professors and others I dilate In England many other things abominate , The world is corrupt both age and youth , Few in our days are valiant for truth , They proceed from evil to evil , speak lies , And weary themselves , Jer. 9 , 3.5 . to commit iniquities , The Drunkenness , Idolatry , that 's in England , Swearing , Adultery , Oppression , did stand Till God came , by 's wonderful dispensation , Oh let 's improve it , by a real reformation Let 's repent and reform , sweep our own door Let 's turn to the Lord , Zeph. 2.3 . and sin no more Now , from oppression I will take my way And the evils of the tongue , a little display The tongues evils are so many , and great That I can't describe them all , compleat , Yet I will give , a brief demonstration Of its horrid evils , in mens generation Still observing the Scripture Revelation Isa. 8.20 . As my Rule ; and guide , to Salvation , Whilst I am in the world , husnance Scriptures brought me , from my ignorance By the Spirits Operating , Gracious , Glance To proceed against the tongues evils I advance ; First , Psa. 10.7 . Cursing is an evil of the Tongue Which is too too common , now among , Rom. 3.14 . Some , in this sin , are so wicked rife , Are so impious , Job 2.9 . like unto Jobs Wife Curse God , when are crost in their life , Many in this sin , are in earnest strife ; Out of the mouth of wicked ungodly men Proceeds blessing and Cursing ; Jam. 3.10 . Oh when Will men be reformed , and fear God ? Dreadful under Gospel light , to be so odd , Live wicked still as in the Land of Nod Joh. 3.19 . Take heed of this sin , dread Christs rod. Many are given so to Cursing , at least Curse any thing , nay the very beast ; If Cross them a little in their Station , Then presently , a dreadful imprecation , Lev. 24.23 . Too Common with Masters , in the Nation And more Common with Servants Station ; Rom. 12.14 . Nay , many in this sin are so rife , Will Curse their Children , and Wife ; Nay , many , for triffles , Curse one another , Pro. 20.20 . The Wife the Husband , the Sister her Brother . Oh these things ought not to be so , Saith Scripture , oh fear an eternal wo , Jam. 3.10 . No longer , in this wicked sin , don't go , Lest the Lord , thee into hell throw ; Yet many now , belch forth such blasphemi There 's no fear of God before their eyes , Swearing , Cursing , Rom. 3.14 . 18. is to many pleasant play s Nay , falseswearing common in our days ; For many of late , by false accusation , Jer. 7.6 . 9. Did not fear to bear in their Station False witness , to bring some to desolation ; False witness , hath been in our Nation Too common , Jer. 8.10 . and 9.4 , 5. in this wicked generation . By false swearing , men destroy the poor And innocent , and rich too , heretofore ; Oh may it not be so , any more . Take heed of this sin in thy generation , False Swearing Perjury brings damnation ; Hos. 4.2 . God himself , will pass their desolation , Nay , be a swift witness , for condemnation , Against false Swearers , Mal , 3.5 . in their generation . Cast off this sin , before it 's too late Execute Judgment , Zech. 8.16 , 17. v. uprightly , in the Gate ; If men did fear the Lord , Scriptures say , They would hate every false way ; This sin , Psa. 119.104 , 128. v. false swearing , though high it fly Is no other than an aggravated lye , Lying is also an evil of the Tongue say I : Lying , is a great sin , a wicked evil 'T is the very mark of the Devil , For he is a Lyer , and all Lyers Father , Saith Scripture , Joh. 8.44 . see this the rather ; And dread lying , though us'd by many , 'T is a great sin , Nay there shall not any , Injoy heaven , who love sin of lying , Take heed , Rev. 22.15 . and from this sin be flying ; To his Neighbour , let all speak truth , Unto one another , Eph. 4.25 . both Age and Youth ; For sin of lying , let great and small , Dread Gods Judgments Rich and Poor all , Josh. 7.25 . Take heed of dissembling and equivocating , Cast off vain words , Act. 5.10 . and Idle prating : Though many reproach Gods holy ways , His people , 1 Thes. 4.6 , 7 , 8. v. his worship , in our days , By despising and wicked , dissembling plays , Because , Job 21.14 . care not for knowledge of Gods ways , They can Lye , Curse , Damn , and Swear , Reproach others , and also , false witness bear : He that inventeth , any false report , Doth wickedness , yet to many , 't is sport , Little consider , they work for the Devil , Exod. 23.1 , 2. Should not follow a multitude to do evil ; Or join with any , to overthrow truth , Take heed , of false swearing , age or youth : As before 't is against Gods Command , Though too much practis'd in England ; Oh let 's all desire , Gods will to understand , Psal. 143.10 And prize the mercies , we injoy , in the Land ; All are from Gods Free , Soveraign hand . Let us cast , off , all sin , and among All , take heed , of the evil of the tongue , Many Count words nothing , Mat. 12 36 , 37. yet when tried By them , shall be Condemn'd , or Justified ; Death and life , are in power , of the tongue , Pro. 18.21 . Saith Scripture , consider then among All thy words , to tell you , my lines mount , For every Idle word , must give account , Saith Christ , therefore , it is no story , 'T is , Scripture truth , which directs to glory ; Let words be few , such may minister grace Unto others , in our Station or earthly race , Eph. 4.29 . Be circumspect , don't God's Image deface By Idle words , see what Scriptures tell , The tongue is set on the fire of Hell ; Jam. 3.6 , 8. Full of deadly poison , an unruly evil , Many times , an instrument for the Devil , And defiles all , the whole body , see Then , what a multitude there be , Eccl. 5.2 . Of men and women , of all degrees , Who little consider Idle words fees ; Most spend their time , in Idle talking , How many are , still , this way walking , Pro. 10.19 . How wicked are most , in our days , For Idle words , in work and plays , He that 's most wicked the most wise , and 23. v. So good Company , as one can be in , Yet all the while , nothing but sin ; A jesting lye , or a lye in jest , Eph. 5.4 , 6. I still cry May cause one in Hell , in earnest to lye , Consider , Idle words may make Laughter , But thou must dye , Heb. 9.27 . and Judgment comes after : To conclude this head , consider once again , Words will cause Joy , 2 Tim. 2.7 . or eternal pain , Therefore , Idle words , do you refrain .
Sect. 54. ALL this while , Mat. 7.3 . methinks , I see and spy , How prone to see , a mote , in anothers eye , Can't see the beam , that 's in our own , 'T is , too common now , as I have known , Is Christ in you the hope of glory ? Col. 1.27 . Look to thy heart , not after anothers story , Cry not so much , against others sin , alone , As against sin , and Corruptions , of thy own ; See sin in another , Luk. 18.13 . common in our days , So put off , our own repentance with delays ; How common , in England , now is this sin , That hundreds of years , in the world been ; Adam was so bold , Gen. 3.12 , 13. told God to his face , The woman thou gavest , brought this disgrace : The woman having pluck'd , of forbidden tree , Would her self free , The Serpent beguil'd me ; Esau sold his birth-right , Gen. 27.36 . was such another , He 's rightly call'd Jacob , a supplanter , by 's brother ; He don't say fool , I should live such Dotage , To sell my birth-right for a mess of Pottage . Also Ahab , Kin. 18.17 , 18. assoon as he did Elisha see , Ahab said , The troubler of Israel , thou art he ; Elisha turns about , throws back the ball , The troubler of Israel he doth Ahab call : The Pharisee in 's self , no sin could see , I do so and so , Luk. 18.11 . what 's this publican to me ? That this is an old sin , you plainly see , Most in their own Conceits , Pro. 30.12 . from sin free ; As this sin , Isa. 65.5 . long in the world , hath been , So , in England now , 't is plain to be seen , For some , Prov. 21.2 . cry , on this man , Thou art he , That hast undone us , and 24.2 . thou hast troubled me , When Judgments fall , we can't withstand Some cry , Monmouth hath undone the Land , Here I must be mute , but I could enlarge , But that the Oar , may over-top my barge ; Some again cry out , on the other side Say , they are the cause , so in sin abide ; Thus they bandy , but who reforms ? in sin run , Jer. 8.6 . Few men or Women say , What have I done ? Jonah said , For my Sake this evil , Jon. 1.12 . here 's one Owns sin ; few say , sin hath us undone ; Cry not of Monmouths coming in the land , 2 Sam. 24.10 . As against sin , sin the cause , if's understand : Neither say the Kings the cause some so bold , 'T is our iniquities , do good things with-hold , This to us , the Scriptures do unfold ; Isa. 59.1.3 . When any people , grow by sin so odd , Jer. 5.25 . Who ever is the instrument is Gods rod , Isa. 10.5 , 6. In punishing , the wicked , yet some counting , All the defect is in , or from the fountain , Obj. Say some , if the fountain , corruptly appear How can the Streams , then run clear ? Sol. A corrupted fountain , Jam. 3.11 . can't have water sweet Yet when many Streams do together meet , As a flood rebound , on the fountain Spring , Make it more filthy , consider this thing , Pro. 17.14 , 15. When any people , grow wicked , under a King ; The cause is not so much , by reflects , 1 Sam. 12.14 , 15. In the King , or Prince , as in his Subjects ; For the King acts by Counsel in 's Station , And not always , as his own Inclination , 2 Chro. 10.6.14 . v. 'T is a delusion , for any to say I 'll declare Such and Such , are the cause ( Satans art ) Of Judgments , when from sin , don't depart Themselves , but retain sin , still in heart , If the Subjects did repent , as Scriptures tell , 1 Sam. 12.14 , 24. Then King , and Subjects might do well ; God sometimes raiseth a King , in his Station , To punish the sins , of the former generation : We cry , Popery Popery , but continue in sin , Yet sin , ●sa. 1.4 . the cause , doth this Judgment bring , And all other Judgments , Gen. 15.16 . but when sin's full , Nothing but Judgments , yea a dreadful pull ; Which in little time , on us will break out , If we repent not , Jam. 1.15 . and turn from sin about : Sin , a forerunner of Judgments , an antecedent of desolation , Num. 32.23 . if repentance , it not prevent , Judgments an effect of sin , and of Gods wrath , Sin , Ezek. 8.17 , 18. the provoking cause , decreed God hath , To power out 's wrath on us ; can any say The effect will cease , cause not taken away ? If Popery were out the land , Amos 5.26 , 27. v. if sin retain It would provoke God , to bring 't again ; Oh Cursed nature of sin , makes us so odd To cause wrath , Psa. 78.21 , 22. v. in a most merciful God , All have sin'd let 's tremble , before's rod ; Let no professor think , because he Is a professor , Rom. 3.23 . from repentance is free , Yet some lay , Gal 3.22 . can attain that degree , I question , if from sin , they cleans'd be ; Yet no mans person , I do not despise , I hate such a maxim , Pro. 30.12 . pure in my own eyes . Consider Scripture , you of all Nations known , Yet you I 'll punish , Amos 3.2 . don't think sin hast none ; I will punish thy iniquities as thy own , Exempt thy self , I 'le not let thee alone ; If weighed Te●el , Dan. 5.27 . would be too light , You have sinned , 1 Kin. 8.46 . and that in Gods sight ; Wo , to the holiest man alive , if God him try According to his Justice , and holy equity , Let 's smite our thighs therefore I cry , Like Ephraim , Jer. 31.19 . let 's repent , every one If God , lets fall's stroke , we are all undone , There needs , Isa. 1.7 . a personal , national reformation Before Gods wrath fall , for desolation , Let 's fear and tremble , Joh. 5.14 . sweep our own door , Let 's turn to God , and sin no more ; Let there be , Change , in heart and mind , Joel . 2.13 , 14. Let 's turn to God , that we may mercy find . Obj. Some may say , who are disputable If God in his Decrees , is immutable ; If his Justice , against a nation is bent , To what end , is it for them , to repent ? Num. 23.19 . God is not as man , that he should relent , Nor as Son of man , in all his intent . Sol. God is infinitely wise , in his determination , At what instant God speaks against a Nation , Jer. 18.7 , 8. If they repent , God , turns their desolation , Not his decree , this to some seems strange , God don't change his will , but wills a Change. God sometimes , 1 Kin. 21.28 , 29. v. changeth a sentence with speed He hath pronounc'd , against sinners deed , But never changeth the Council hath decreed ; God said , Yet in forty days , Jona . 3.4 , 10. v. shall Nineveh Be destroy'd yet by repentance , were not , see In Scripture , but had longer liberty : Observe , is God like one of us ? can he , When he hath said it , alter his decree ? Denounced Judgment God , doth oft prevent , But neither changeth Counsel , nor intent , The noise of heaven , don't threat perdition , But with express , or an impli'd Condition ; So that if a Nation , return from ill , God turns his hand , not turn his will ; Pro. 29.1 . and 15.10 . Then repent , England , forthwith begin , Turn at Gods reproof , break off thy sin : And thou mayst be yet , a happy England , Yet , God changeth nots will , but turns his hand , From what 's said such a meditation borrow , Live to day , as if should dye to morrow ; Jam. 4.14 . Knows not what a day , or night , may I cry , Bring forth by death maist go , to eternity ; Psa. 74.19 , 20 , 21. v. I fear and tremble , of a bloody massacry , Therefore , to God in Christ , by faith apply ; Thy self , and then fear not mans Cruelty , Psa. 29.13 . Get interest in Christ , whiles hast breath , Prize life , pray for Conversion , before death , Don't live in sin , Mat. 18.3 . consider what 's said Let thoughts of wrath , make thee afraid , Live in sin , Psa. 81.11 . is a Judgment , of sad degree , From a reprobate life , Lord deliver me , To live in sin , a greater Judgment can't be ; 2 Pet. 1.10 . Therefore mind , thy eternal state , I cry , Prepare for death , and also , for eternity , Knows not how soon , by bloody hands may die ; Therefore , Deut. 32.29 . have eternity , ever in thy eye .
Sect. 55. Obj. SAY some , Methinks , God should's people free , From all those Judgments , and Calamitie ; Sol. Consider man , what thou saies , herein I must tell thee , Josh. 24.19 , 20. v. knows not , the evil of sin , God delights , in 's peoples prosperity , herein Observe , afflictions are the fruit of sin , God never makes , his people , feel his rod , Till provok'd by their sinning , against God ; Lam. 3.33 . God doth not afflict willingly , but when Provok'd , then grieves the Children of men , Cursed evil of sin , Psa. 78.21 , 22. v. makes us so odd , To cause wrath , in a most merciful God ; Cursed nature of sin , makes us so vile , Were it not for sin , God would on us smile ; God doth his people good , by afflictions fairly , In afflictions , Hos. 5.15 . they will seek God early ; In the day of their affliction , mind it well , Then they look unto the holy one of Israel ; Isa. 17 7. In prosperity , we are like to Noahs dove , If find a twig , to rest on , will not move Towards the Ark , till God , out of love , By affliction , all our props command From us , all earthly things on which we stand , Then , Psa. 142.4 . 5. v. when we look , on every hand , Know not what to do , then the rod Of affliction , drives us then , unto God ; When in affliction , as in a great deluge , Then we say , the Lord is our refuge , Now Lord , when afflictions , of great degree , What wait I for ? my hope is in thee , Afflictions to Gods People , when sanctified Are for their good , said one , that tried , Psa. 119.67.71 . and 76.10 . Therefore Man or Woman , thou tells a story God suffers this for 's peoples good , and his glory , What ever troubles come on the people of God , Whoever be the instruments as his Rod , God hath his way in it , ordering it mind , 1 Thes. 3.3 . As to its Measure , Season , and also Kind , As to its continuance , without dispute , Amos 3.6 . And as to the ends , also to its fruit , Troubles issue from the same love , mind well , With redemption , of our Souls from Hell , Isa. 14.27 . God doth all in pursuance , of his decree And purpose of his love from Eternitie , Jer. 51 29. God hath now , a special design in hand , Therefore , just so far , as God will understand ; Carry on that design , now in the Land Towards his people's good , he will command , Or permit , how far , the Enemy shall go , Isa. 10.7 . Tho' the wicked in Heart mean not so , They count to destroy many , as they run , But God over-rules them , as clear's the Son ; Psa. 82.1 . There 's no evil in the City , but what 's done By God ; that is still , by Gods permission , Amos 3.6 . And not any otherways , on no condition ; Tho' all things come to pass , or brought be According to Gods purpose , or eternal decree , Yet is his decree , the cause of no sin , Jer. 9.14 . The decree inferring , no necessity herein Of constraint , but of immutability , The decree of God , Eze. 18.31 , 32. takes away neither Liberty From the reasonable Creatures , nor contingency From second causes , man is not herein Condemn'd because , man can't chuse but sin , In regard of Gods eternal determination , But sins in regard of his own inclination , Tho' wicked men , do act nothing , Act. 4 37 , see But what God hath appointed in 's decree , Yet man in all his intentions sinneth still , Because doth all in obedience to 's own Will , Doth not eye Gods command to fulfil , Luk. 6.46 . But of this I have said , elsewhere more clear , Shall not at present , say any more here , But return again , Reader , unto my way Concerning afflictions , I have more to say , Prosperity to man's Salvation is a cheater , But of troubles comes meat out of the eater , Judg. 14.14 . Tho afflictions come on them like a flood , Rom. 8.28 . God works all things , for his peoples good , God hath promis'd never to let them fall , God brings sweetness of Worm-wood and Gall , Heb. 13.5 . Yet herein observe , tho troubles combine On us , yet they are no infallible sign Of Salvation , Eccl. 9.1 . afflictions are as I define , Like the Red Sea , Exod. 14.28 , 29. in the Scripture found , Deliverance to Israel , when Egyptians drown'd ; Gods Rain on Just and Unjust doth fall , Dost remember , Mat. 5 45. the Worm-wood and Gall , Is thy Soul humbled here 's the end of all ? Lam. 3.19 , 20. How doth it work ? Doth thy Soul thrive In Grace , by afflictions ? Art Spiritual alive ? Know thy Heart ; Gal. 6.4 . if in the World high or low , By outward dispensation canst not know : Gods Love or Hatred , 2 Cor. 2.16 . then whiles hast Breath , Afflictions are the Savour of Life or Death . Obj. But you may say , why doth God delay , Or suffer his Elect in troubles to stay , When wicked men sometimes none in their way . Sol. I answer , the righteous their Faith 's tri'd ever , Whether they in Gods way will persever , 3 Pet. 1.7 . And raise more praise unto God for ever , When God shall them from troubles deliver ; But must not think themselves so free : Psa. 89.30 , 33. As tho did not deserve rebukes from he ; Why doth God suffer them to be tempted , 2 Cor. 12.7 . By Satans Messengers they should be exempted ? Sol. When the wickeds Rod is on by permission , There 's that in them , doth deserve contrition , Too much self love , Pride a Thorn in the Flesh , Actuates the motions of their Souls afresh , 2 Cor. 12.7 . God by afflictions causeth them herein , To remember their former ways of Sin , When Josephs Brethren saw themselves taken For Spies in Egypt , as by Joseph forsaken , And in present danger of their lives ; so The Sin they commited many years ago , Gen. 42.21 . Came fresh into their minds , and lay On their Conscience at that very day . In all afflictions , to Gods People his intent Is to humble them , therefore doth sin present ; God intends their good without dispute , To purge their sin is all the fruit ; Isa. 27.9 . There 's need of heavyness , 1 Pet. 1.6 . tho troubles runs On them , without it Bastards and not Sons , Heb. 12.8.10 . To your objection , concerning the delay Of the wicked in the World by the way , Reader understand , I have this to say In answer to hasten the end of my way , Sometimes God suffers the wicked as his Rod , To humble his people , in the land of Nodd , Isa. 10.5 , 6. Without afflictions , God people would saith My lines , live more by sence than by faith , Also to declare the long suffering of God , To the wicked holds in his revenging Rod , Holds in his Justice , holds out his Grace , If they his forbearance and mercy imbrace ; Rom. 2.4 , 5. and 11.23 . All to leave the wicked without excuse : It may be also for calling of the Jews ; Judgment defer'd on the wicked for Salvation , 1 Pet. 3.9 . To many unconverted in our Nation , As brands must be snatcht out of the fire , Jud. 23. Oh would all unconverted conversion desire , Few know practically what 's conversion , pretend Themselves Christians , Eph. 4.18 , but still blind As to practise , they never answer the end Of Christian , Ti● . 2.14 . their lives never amend , Consider what 's said , I wish as a friend , The wicked they are left to play In Sin , till God call them hence away , But oh for them , a dreadful reckoning day ! God will pay off every unprofitable life , With everlasting death , and eternal strife , Cast the unprofitable servant into Hell , Mat. 25.30 . There will God make his wrath to swell , Against the wicked for ever , Psa. 9.17 . and 11.6 . mind it well : The wicked let alone , till God them send Such wounds and pains as know no end , For these reasons and more might be given , But I am for brevity , as my name 's Stephen , For these considerations I am satisfied , I hope may be so to you when tried . 2 Tim. 2.7 .
Sect. 56. YOU see why Gods people in trouble stay , Heb. 10.24 . When the wicked none in their way , Now which side had you rather be , Deut. 8.5 . With the righteous in trouble , in high degree , Or in wickedness with the wicked free ? Moses made his choice , Heb. 11.25 , 26. had good reason To suffer , rather than injoy sin a season : What 's present sufferings to an eternal sore ? Eternity is for ever , Rev. 10.6 time shall be no more , Whether our sufferings be great or small , A light affliction ; 2 Cor. 4.17 , 18. v. a Crown of Glory pays all , If the wicked continue in Sin still bold ; I would not be in their case for Gold , Nor for all Riches , Job 34.12 , 19. v. the World doth hold . Oh dread Gods wrath since are foretold ! Who can abide , or in his fury dwell , Prov. 11.4 . His wrath burns unto the lowest Hell ? What Gall and Wormwood , Deut. 32.22 he puts in The Cup he gives his people for sin : Must his own , Isa. 33.14 . drink deep of the Cup ? The dregs the wicked will drink up : Psa. 107.1 . Think you , He who so corrects his own , Will still chastise them , and let you alone ? Do they lye deep in sorrows ? and must you Still joy and triumph , like a wicked Crew ? Job 20.5 . Can you all his Omnipotence subdue ? When God takes you into his hand By 's Almighty power , makes you stand , That you may feel what Jehovah can Deut. 32.41 Do against you , then woe to that man Then may'st cry , wish hadst not been Born , When under Gods wrath ; O from sin turn ! Isa. 3.11 . And because the wickeds presumption 's great , A word of what 's said before , I 'le repeat That sin may not thy Salvation cheat Without Conversion , Mat. 18.3 . for glory not compleat If Heaven don't enter thy Soul by grace , Cannot enter Heaven , that 's a holy place . Cast off sin , to false hope don't lean There enters nothing , Rev. 21.27 . that 's unclean Heavens holiness , in perfection , if no desire To holiness in life , then fit for Hell fire . Rom. 9.22 . Don't think slight of those things , as some When meet with discontent , Exod. 16.3 . words come From them , wish they were dead , presently Being ignorant , of Gods wrath , and Eternity , Joh. 3.3 . Thou must be Converted before thou dye . Wish thee dead , if things don't go well Before Converted , remember what I tell It is to wish thy self in Hell. Rev. 20.6 . Labour for part , in the first Resurrection , Go to God in Christ , for mercies protection , Without in Christ , Heb. 10.31 . thou canst not stand Under wrath , 't is terrible to fall in Gods hand Without reconciliation , by Christ understand , Col. 3.11 . and 1.19 . and 2.9 . If all Angels and Saints , should for thee pray It would avail nothing , Christ the way , Take heed , as before , of a Mass Priests absolution When thy Soul is defil'd with sin's pollution . Monks , Friers , like the Devils Hound Drive all come to them , into Satans pond . Then wait on God in Christ , Eph. 3.17 . by Faith All thy appointed time , Job 14.14 . as Job saith , Take Christ , for refuge this Ark will stand , Carry thorow Gods wrath to Canaans Land . Psa. 46.1 . In Christ , 2 Pet. 1.17 . only God is well pleased , and Hath committed all power into his hand , Here 's my Comfort , Mat. 28.18 which makes me smile , God will discern , and separate from the vile . Then let 's our duty to the Lord advance , Mal. 3.16 , 18. For there is a Book of Remembrance ; Fear not , 't is as true as my name's Husnance . Tho' few stir themselves to seek the Lord , Isa. 64.7 . and 55.6 . Let us call upon God , as faith the word , Tho' the world with sin themselves defile ; If to serve God be , 2 Sam. 6.22 . let us be more vile : Let us do our duty in our Generation , Let 's watch and pray to God for our Nation ; Mat. 26.41 . That God would have mercy , so we may Obtain his mercy , let us keep Gods way ; Let not fear of sufferings make's go astray . Consider the Scriptures , believe Gods Word , Balaam out of Gods way , Num. 22.22 , 26. v. the Angels Sword Was like to destroy him , so shall we If keep not Gods way , hold fast integrity Jonah went out of Gods way , and withal , Met with a mighty Tempest , Jona . 1.12 . and great Whale ; To commit sin , to avoid sufferings , I tell Is to save our bodys , mind it very well And destroy our immortal Souls in Hell , Rev. 21.8 . To Apostate is dreadful , as said-before , Oh dread Gods wrath and sin no more ! Heb. 10.38 .
Sect. 57. CHrist said , Joh. 16.33 . In the World shall be trouble , For any thing I know , it may be double What you have seen , let Faith increase , Keep to your Center , in Christ have peace , Own God in all his ways , tho withstood , However it be with us , yet God is good , God is Jehovah still , Psa. 107.1 . he is God alone , Can do great things like to Jehovah none , Psa. 86.2 . We think God is not God , and cry , As tho God needed help of standers by ; Is not Jehovah God alone , cannot he From troubles his little flock and people free ? Such and Such a man must act or we dye ; Luk. 12 32. This the cause of casting a brave instrument by . You know what I mean , what my lines imply , Esteem man less , depend on God say I ; The Egyptians were drown'd , Heb. 11.29.30 . Scripture saith On a sudden ; Jericho also fell by Faith , Politick heads and diabolical wits shall be Nonplus'd by Gods own power , by Faith see The Stone cut out , Dan. 2.45 . shall smite without hands The Image of various mixtures in all Lands , Break it to pieces ; Rev. 21.2 , 3 new Jerusalem comes down From Heaven , power works , tho seem to frown , Once more not only Earth , God will shake But also Heaven , God himself will power take , Heb. 12.25 . Destroy , that rotten Heaven of mens inventions , Tho upholden by many wicked intentions ; Not by might , nor power saith the Lord , But by 's Spirit , not mans help , saith the Word , Zech. 4.6 . We expect our happiness too low from men , Isa. 43.13 . But 't wil come from Christ , when comes agen , God don't tye himself to do great work With humane strength , as in our hearts lurk , We have a Heaven depending , yet fears swell , What will become of us , little time will tell . Dan. 12.13 . Repent , repent England , thy days draw near , Return from thy Apostacy , tremble and fear ; Ezek. 22.4 . Thou hast left thy first love in our days , Rev. 2.4 . Many leave Religion , for superstitious plays , 'T is fulfilling the Scriptures which unfold , Before Christ comes great Apostacy , love cold , Mat. 24.12 . v. 49. Cold to Christ , his ways , cold to one an other , Instead of love many will smite his Brother , Be in love with Drunkards in this age , We live , don't those things truth presage The coming of Christ draws near at hand , Mat. 24.33 . Many under-name Christs Servant in the Land , Instead of love to Christ , do degenerate , Those who appear for Christ , did hate , Did smite them not only with the Sword , Luk 6.22 . But with reproach and cruelty , saith the Word ; Instead of choosing for their associates those Fear God , Act. 4.18.26 . did them cast out and oppose , Tho yet the toleration , smell like a Rose ; But see the end , as you run the race , Were not drunkards , Luk. 23.12 . swearers , men void of grace , Enemies to Christ , such upholden every place ? Can this be well , are we such foolish elves , To think God is such a one as our selves ? Psa. 50.21 . Yet Satan so much wickedness doth hatch , Before Christ comes ; Mat. 24.42 . then pray and watch , Let not Gods dispensations seem strange , The Vision is for appointed time , their range Is limited , Hab. 2.3 . God over rules , Hell works a change , Act Faith on God , Isa. 26.4 . he is Jehovah still ; Can Will a change , yet not change his Will , Now will I arise saith God , Psa. 12.5 . Isa. 42.8 . on him depend Fear not , God will bring about his end , Which is his Glory , Rom. 8.28 . and his peoples good , Tho at present , it 's by wicked men withstood , God will pour out his Vials on the Throne Rev. 14.10 , 11. Of the Beast , and her followers every one ; Come out from among them saith the Lord , 2 Cor. 6.17 . From their sins separate saith the Word , For the great day of God is at hand , To visit for the iniquities of the Land , Jer. 5.9 . Tho at present we hopes of escape borrow , Mat. 24.8 . Yet these things are but beginning of sorrow , Judgments will overtake us like Gomorrow , Gods people also , may much suffer and smart By cruelty , which is the wickeds dart , God may sufter drops of wrath to fall , Rev. 12.13 . On his own people , to try them all , Who will be for God , and 3 , 10. and who for Baal . Therefore my request to all I must double , Repent , believe , and prepare for trouble , For you will see in short great tribulation , Mat. 24.21 . For great is Gods wrath against the Nation , Not only to visit , but a day of vengeance ; Jer. 51.6 . On Jehovah let be your dependance , Isa. 26.4 . And all those transactions will surely end In Antichrists ruin , but Jehovah will defend His little Flock , in those Judgments insuing , Col. 3.5 , 6. Tho dreadful shall end in Antichrists ruin , A shelter from the storm have Saints provided , They by Christs counsel shall be guided ; Isa. 35.4 . The Assyrians flood may their peace annoy , Yet in due time , shall their God injoy , God over-rules the wicked , which are's Rod , Tho they act as if there were no God : Psa. 76.10 . and 17 , 13 , 14. God , if I may so say , is now making way For his own glory let 's the wicked play ; But as Scripture's true , in few years insuin , Christ will exalt himself in Antichrists ruin , Rev. 22.12 . Act Faith on God , don't think he is slack , Their Rod's not always on the righteous back ; Psa. 125.3 . Zech. 14.9 . Fear not , let not thy faith seem to yield , A little time Christ comes with Majesty , Jer. 23.6 . Isa. 60.12 . Christ thy King will come win the Field , Then Tribes of the Earth Mourn and Cry ; Righteousness , Truth he will maintain , Will destroy those don't desire his Reign , Luk. 19.27 . Christ King of Righteousness the Scepter sway , Isa. 2.17 . and 26.4 . His name alone is exalted in that day . Trust in the Lord for ever , for at length , Will find in Jehovah , is everlasting strength ; Jer. 51.12 , 13. Rom. 11.23 . 2 Thes. 2.3 , 8. Babylon shall come down , shall surely fall , Both Jews and Gentiles shall have a call ; The man of sin shall down be destroy'd , That hath Christs People so long annoy'd , Hell Gates shall not prevail , Mat. 16.18 . God will preserve His little flock , they shall not swerve ; Let Heathens rage , and People all conspire , Psal , 2.1 , 2. ] Let ravening Wolves , whom Hell sets on Fire Let cunning Polititians all do their worst , Swell with malice , till they all burst , Yet never shall throw Gods Sion down , But on their ruin , God will gain renown ; Tho the Bush is always burning in the Fire , Exod. 3.2 . Shall not be consum'd ; Prov. 21.10 . tho the wicked desire , And practice too , to destroy that Tree , The Church of Christ , but shall not be ; The Brethrens accuser shall be cast under , Rev. 12.10 . God will work such a work , who shall hinder ? Fear not , Isa. 43.13 . Satan shall be troden under Foot , The God of Heaven will bring him to 't ; Rom. 16.20 . Tho Satan be still like a roaring Lion , Yet there is deliverance , in mount Sion , Altho the Devil roar , he cannot rent , The Lion of Judah will his rage prevent . Depend on Jehovah , and in him trust , And then let the Devil , do his worst , The Stone cut , Dan. 2.24 , 25. of the mountain , without hands Will make all the World obey's commands , When Christ is reveal'd , 2 Thes. 1.8 , 10. in flaming fire , To render vengeance , to all don 't him desire ; Then call to Rocks , Rev. 6.16 . lament and grieve , But is admir'd by all that believe , Oh then live by faith , Mat 26.41 . watch and pray , He now letteth will let , till taken away , Satan is full of wrath , 2 Thes. 2.7 . busy to hurt , Because he knows , Rev. 12.12 . and 22.4 . his time 's but short ; Live the Life of sanctification , the rather , Because Holyness , is mark of the Father : 'T is the Fathers name , on their forehead , Grow in grace , 2 Pet. 3.18 . feed with Childrens bread , Follow the Lamb , Jesus Christ in love , Keep your selves Virgins , don't you move After the Beast , Rev. 14.4 . his mark don't approve ; Stand fast , Protestants , fly superstition , Receive not the Beasts mark , 1 Cor. 10.14 on no condition , Contend for Protestant Faith , stand at least , In hour of Temptation , fear not the Beast , Rev. 3.10 . Keep your garments clean , in your scope , Practise no ceremonies come from the Pope ; Protestant Religion hath its foundation From Scripture , stood many's life in the nation , Gal. 1.8 . So may again , tho at present , a toleration : Then practise Holyness , in conversation , Luke 12.35 36 , 37. Happy that servant who when , I say still , His master comes , is doing his will , They who are Christs , will be turning , Will gird up their Loins , and lights burning , We depend too much on man , such leaven Is in us , oh look for Christ from Heaven ! Cant. 6 . 1● . Depend on Christ , and on 's mighty power , Mat. 24.42 . Know not how soon , or what hour Christ comes ; watch that dreadful shower Of vengeance , 2 Thes. 1.7 , 8. which Christ will fourth pour On the wicked , give them a total rout , Therefore , by faith , friends , look about , Babylon shall fall , she shall come down , Rev. 18.21 . Pope no more shall wear the triple Crown , Tho lately did sit , like a Lady or Queen In England , Popes pride no more be seen ; v. 7. and 8. For strong is the Lord , as doth appear , Now in England , oh let 's Jehovah fear ! Rev. 19.1 , 2. Hallelujah sing , friends , be of good cheer , The day of our redemption draws near Tho may a dreadful shower yet fall , 'T wil be short , believe and on God call : Mat. 24.46 . Let none think , the storm is past , Sin will cause , on all attempts , a blast , Isa. 59.1 , 2. Without we repent , by real reformation , Jer. 5.25 . Now under Gods wonderful dispensation , Which is withstood ▪ by some in the nation , Isa. 26.10 . Which may bring on us desolation , Therefore pray , such petitions to Jehovah send , That men's wickedness , may have an end : Psal. 7.9 . Lord open our eyes , and change our Hearts , Let Judgments not fall as our deserts , 2 Chro. 15.2 . Tho' Gog did incamp in the Land , Ezek. 38.2 . Yet thou , Lord , didst them all withstand : Tho' Gog and Magog , Rev. 20.8 . did muster their force , Yet Lord , thou didst prevent their course . Christ's Enemies , did gather and incamp Light of the Gospel , Psa. 2.1 , 2. did count to damp ; Yet God did save , at destructions brink , Do more for England than we can think . Oh turn us ! Eph. 3.20 . Lord , turn us unto thee By Reformation , Jer. 18.7 , 8. that England mayn't destroy'd be ; Make King William , and Queen of high renown , To pull Will worship , Col. 2.23 . and Popery down . Oh that Bishops and Priests may reformed be , Before God's Judgments fall in high degree ! Isa. 1.16 . Lord help us all to sweep our own door By Reformation , John 5.14 . and let us sin no more . Give glory to God , by believing to day , Before cause darkness , Jer. 13.16 . and blind our way , Whiles hope for light , darkness take place ; Lord help , Isa. 59.8 . our condition , a dangerous case . Lord pardon 's , let England find mercy , and The Gospel continue , the glory of England : Let the glorious light thereof expel 2 Cor. 4.4 . Those fogs of darkness , that lead to Hell : Let the Kingdom of Grace , Zech. 12.10 . be advanced free , And Kingdom of Darkness destroyed be ; That Kingdoms of the world , with one accord May become Kingdoms of Christ our Lord . Rev. 11.15 . Oh! hasten those things which Scriptures record : Lord hasten the fulfilling of thy Word : Hasten the blessing , Heb. 2.14 . which Scripture contains , Of its descending , like the latter Rains , To usher in the glory of Christ's day ; Thy Kingdom come , blessed God , haste away ; Let 's hear of Babylon's fall , Rev. 18.21 . in our day , So may live for ever , unto thy praise , Let thy Kingdom come , it will please us ; Come Lord , and 22. ●0 . even so come Lord Jesus . Lord shew grace , more and more , to me , Or take me hence this world to thee , Psa. 31.16 . The third part of this Book doth appear An invitation to love , tho' in the rear . To love one another , let 's be inclin'd , To be for Christ , of one heart and mind . Christ prayed for oneness and peace ; 'T is Christ's command , love should encrease . Let 's clear up to Christ our Union , By love to one another , in holy Communion . Receive as written in love , what doth follow , Despise it not , tho' it be not from Apollo . Let not a fancy , an opinion , a meer notion , Hinder love , one with another , in Devotion .
A Preface to move the Reader unto Love. 1 Cor. 10.15 . TO love our Neighbour , as our selves , know , James 2.8 . Gal. 5.14 . Is fulfilling of the royal Gospel Law , Saith Scripture ; how many are so odd , Instead of love , are for a malicious Rod ? In holy love , how few are taught of God , 1 Thes. 4.9 . But are like Cain , in the Land of Nod ? Who did not only hate , but slew his brother ; Many in our days murther one another ; 1 John 3.12 . Nay , he is a murtherer , who doth but hate His brother , the Scripture doth this state ; v. 15. Those that live in malice , and wicked strife , Cannot enjoy God's presence in eternal life : For God is love ; oh then ! let love run To one another , and all malice shun ; 1 John 4.7 . Love all men , especially the houshold of Faith ; Gal. 6.10 . Love your Enemies , as the Scripture saith : Every one is our neighbour , and brother By nature , love the welfare of one another . Acts 19.26 . By love is known the Spirit of Truth , And the Spirit of Error , in age or youth . Eph. 2.3 . Holy love is the very mark of those Whom God for his , by Election , hath chose . Joh. 13.34 , 35. By love , the Children of God are known From Satan's ; they for malice , every one , He doth not righteousness , Scriptures discover , Is not of God , 1 John 3.10 . nor he loves not his brother . How many , for want of love , are so evil , For malice , Jam. 3.14 , 15. the very mark of the Devil ? God's Command doth for love still run , Rev. 12 13. And also to believe on his Son. 1 Joh. 3.23 . Fidelity and love are inseparable , saith Scripture , which is the only Rule of Faith ; Where one is , Gal. 5.22 . there is also the other ; Cast off malice , and love as brother . This command is from God , as we go , He that loves God , 1 John 4.21 . loves his brother also , Real , not feignedly , as most now do Dissembling , one with another , is too true ; How flattering is one neighbour to another ? Jer. 9.4 , 5. Little real love between sister and brother ; Fair to their faces , but turn their back , Then speak ill , or despising , and so detract What love pretended , Joh. 3.16 . real love is slack . God's love , freely , unto us did run , In sending forth to die , Gal. 4.4 , 5. his only Son : We all ought , if God so loved us , To love one another ; 1 John 4.11 . malice is a Curse : Hatred and malice is the mark of Hell , Jam. 3.15 , 16. Oh! 1 Joh. 2.11 . cast off malice , and consider it well ; Hatred , malice , revenge , is such a Leaven , Shuts all guilty out the Kingdom of Heaven . Gal. 5.21 . He that saith loves God , 1 John 3.15 . and 4.20 . and hates his brother , Is a Lyar , saith Scripture , Oh! love one another ; 'T is good for brethren , Psal. 133.1 . in love to hold In unity , the Scriptures unto us unfold ; In days of cruelty , Mat. 24.12 . let not love wax cold . Oh love ! for you see men in wickedness bold ; Love one another , Job 9.6 . in this shaking hour , Lest , in stead of love , one another devour ; Live in love , and peace . love as brother , Lest we are consumed one of another . Gal. 5.15 . Antichrist , by Jesuits , hath love withstood ; Satan cast after the Woman a water-flood . Rev. 12.15 . See now how Pope , with his Popish Crew Against Protestants doth now still pursue , England , and Holland , they count to subdue ; Psal. 68.30 . By their wicked and diabolical Jarrs , Raiseth one Nation against another in Wars , Rev. 17.14 . All , to cause Protestants ruine and woe ; But fear not , Protestants , and also know , Psal. 2 4 , 5. God will , ere long , give them an overthrow ; Stand still and see the Lord's Salvation , Exod. 14.13 . God will work Deliverance for our Nation ; Psal. 44.5 . Then love one another , in this generation , Let not Satan hinder love in our station ; Satan fills mens hearts with Pride's invention , For by Pride cometh wicked Contention ; Prov. 13.10 . All the study , wit , parts , art and skill Of some , hath been to oppose one another , will You , instead of love , continue so still ? If so , you do not Christ's Command fulfil : John 15.12 . Christ commands love , you may it see By what follows , if your love impartial be ; Jam. 2.1 , 9. Let not an opinion , a fancy , a meer notion , Hinder love one with another in Devotion , Love to one another is from the Spirits motion : Gal. 5.22 . The Spirit 's fruit is love , Scripture says , Jer. 32.39 . Shall be of one heart in the latter days : See how the people of Israel did of old , Zech. 14.9 . Knit together , as one man , Scriptures unfold : Judg. 20.1 , 11. Want of this love hath hindred Reformation , Other things too , I could tell , in the Nation ; They entred into Covenant , to seek the Lord With their hearts and souls , saith the Word ; 2 Chron. 15.12 , 13. Whosoever would not seek , whiles breath , The God of Israel , should be put to death . Oh! that in love , Psal. 119.2 . we would enter in band To seek God , with all our hearts , in England ; Hos. 10.12 . There is a time , will needs love , at hand , Therefore love , and my meaning understand : Oh! love one another , 't is Christ's command ; Receive as written in love , 1 Cor. 3.5 , 6. what doth follow ; Despise it not , tho' it be not from Apollo . Consider Reader , what my Lines tell , So from the Stream , go to the Well ; Read love in love , so may'st for ever dwell With God of Love , Gal. 6.16 . the holy One of Israel . Oh! that those weak lines may love advance To God , Acts 17.30 . and to one another , cast off ignorance , Of malice ; so prays thy friend Husnance : Consider in love , what my Lines tell , Love as a Christian real , 2 Tim. 2.7 . so farewel .
Sect. 1. AN Appendix , Heb. 10.24 . or word of love , in the end , As said before , if you an Ear will lend ; This word love I will put in the rear , Because little of real love doth appear ; And 't is that our Saviour hath foretold , Mat. 24.12 . In the latter days love should wax cold ; Yet Christ commands love , may see it true In Scripture , Joh. 15.17 . love as I have loved you , Who writes after this Copy , age or youth , That love is real , 1 Joh. 3.23 . in deed , and in truth : In time of prosperity , many pretend love , Then what they will do , self-ends move : He never lacks , shall never lack a friend , If rich , Prov. 14.20 . then friendship enough pretend ; But if in trouble , Micah 7.5 . their Love is at an end : Whosoever in his need a feigned friend try , Instead of friendship , Zech. 13.6 . finds him an enemy : But , as none look on a Dial when the Sun Is under a cloud , Prov. 19.7 . so if try , their love 's done ; 'T is true Reader , as clear's the Sun. When Paul before Nero , for 's Life was try'd , All men forsook him , 2 Tim. 4.16 . their love to hide ; Before Paul came to his Answer , they cry'd , They would stand by him , as is imply'd : Such love , in our days , hath been descry'd , Many pretend love , but when need it , deny'd : A friend loves at all times , Prov. 17.17 . and a brother 's born For adversity ; this love out the world 's worn , For the least difference doth passion move Into anger , then farewel all pretended love ; Love without dissimulation , not for self-ends ; Rom. 12.9 , 18. Love is now for self ends , or farewel friends : 'T is not according to Christ's Rule ; shall I move You to press after this virtue ? God is love ; 1 John 4.20 , 21. Can you love God , and not love one another ? 'T is not love of God can't hold together ; He that saith , loves God , and hates his brother , Is a Lyer ; Oh then love ! and from malice sever ; Follow peace and love , Heb. 12.14 . Oh that I could hurl This ball love and peace thorow the world : 'T is not a love to sin I press , don't mistake , That I am against , for my Saviour's sake , Pray for their Conversion , don't carry hate To their persons , in their sins be separate : Eph. 5.11 , 12. Keep universal love and peace unto all ; As occasion offers , do good to great or small : Rom. 12.18 , 27. Don't live in envy , that pleaseth the Devil ; Then love one another , times are evil Days we live in , call for love together , Eph. 5.16 . Our Cause dangerous , from love don't sever ; Hold in love together , now love or never . Do good to all , especally the houshold of Faith ; Gal. 6.10 . Love your Enemies , as the Scripture saith , Much more Christ's Image , where you it see , Mat. 5.44 . By the fruit holiness , may know the Tree : Mat. 7.16 . Without partiality , high or low degree , Heb. 13.1 . If Christ's Image , let love impartial be . 1 John 5.1 . Love Christ's Image , but don't be so Apish , To love a Picture , and hate Christ , like a Papish . They pretend love to Christ's Picture so free , Yet malign Christ in his Members in high degree . Luke 6.35 , 36. The difference between God's Children see , And Satans , I will briefly lay before thee . As God and 's Children are known to be one Jam. 3.17 . In love , mercy , pity , in their lives doth run , Patience , long-suffering , love , wishing the health , Life and welfare of all as himself . So Satan and his Children are known one Prov. 12.10 . In envy , cruelty , oppression , is by them done Malignancy , revenge , murder , tyranny , Improverishing , Psal. 74.20 . and undoing many a family : See how God's Children by love are known From Satan's ; James 3.14 , 15 , 16. they for malice , every one ; Oh! then love one another , don't be so evil To live in malice , the mark of the Devil . Oh! Rev. 12.13 , 17. love one another , 't is my earnest suit , Herein's God glorified , John 15.8 . if you bring love's fruit ,
Sect. 2. INstead of love , Mat. 18.15 . backbiters our times afford , If a brother sin , who , according to the word Of Christ , go tell him his fault , Scripture record , In love tell him his sin 'twixt him and thee , If canst gain thy brother , verse 16. if not , try , see What canst do , then take more with thee . Take heed , let not backbiting in thee lurch , Perswade in love before tell it the Church . verse 17. How few observe this Rule in our Nation ! No , their love is now for information . Scripture saith , Psal. 15.3 . who shall dwell in salvation ? He that backbiteth not with his tongue ; And Paul also reckons a backbiter among 2 Cor. 12.20 Worst of sinners , Rom. 1.29.30 . and shall have damnation Without repentance , and real reformation . The evil of backbiting is , it hurteth love , And doth antipathy and hatred move , Prov. 15.1 . Brings in dissention , and at long run By this evil , & 26.28 . backbiting , many undone : Sin of backbiting hath this peculiar evil , It hurts a man absent , Prov. 11.9 . as bad's the Devil ; Doth covertly undo men , before aware , Therefore of backbiters had need take care , For many times it dissevers friends asunder , Gives such a wound as makes some wonder ; and 18.8 . Therefore Scripture saith , Better an open enemy Than a secret friend ; a backbiter undoes secretly ; What greater prejudice can be than Infame A man in 's credit , reputation , and good name ? To rail and backbite , common in woman , Prov. 9.13 . But Scripture saith , Speak evil of no man ; Tit. 3.2 , 3. Yet common , in our days , men are so base , Jam. 4.11 . Their love is for one anothers disgrace , Like Jeremiah's familiars , he doth them call , Pretend love , that watch one anothers fall . Jer. 20.10 . I heard defaming of many on every side , This comes from Satan , and dissembling Pride , Jam. 3.15 . For the Hypocrite and Backbiter are twins , Mat. 24.51 . Shall have Hypocrites portion for their sins . Oh! give off backbiting , and for mercy call , Judge not thy brother , Rom. 14.4 , 12. Unto God , who will judge thee and all . Cast off backbiting whiles hast breath , Set love to work , save a Soul from death : Jam. 5.20 . Consider worth of Souls , let love move In thy generation , this way employ love , Mat. 16.26 . Not in backbiting ; cast it off , don't delay , Do it in love to Christ , 't is thy best way ; The wages of backbiters is very bad pay ; Take heed of false hope , and presumptuous play . Rom. 6.23 .
Sect. 3. IN Scripture I read , Luke 13.26 , 27. many in the last day Will presume on their familiarity , and say , They had eat and drank in Christ's presence , Some expostulating with Christ , from hence Have prophesied , cast out Devils in thy name , Mat. 7.22 , 23. Done wonderful works ; shall we have blame ? Can this be without love to Christ ? true , Had we such ground , should say so too ; Yea confident , if such evidence of union With Christ , think us safe of communion With God hereafter , could we say as they , verse 23. Consider of it , Reader , and mind , I pray , Yet , for all this , they were sent away : I know you not , they were such , no doubt , Did not really love Christ , therefore turn'd out , Notwithstanding their flourish of protestation , Let 's fear if such were sent to desolation ; Oh! let 's fear and tremble in our generation , Luke 6.46 . Let 's practically love Christ in our station ; All think they love Christ ; Oh that we deed ! To think how many will be deceived , Mat. 7.13 , 14. I bleed In heart , to see that many on better ground Than us , Luke 13.27 , 28. are sent to the Devil's Pound : Oh! let 's not venture our everlasting state On groundless surmises ; let 's before too late , Work out salvation with fear and trembling : Phil. 2 12. Let 's really love Christ without dissembling ; Let 's pause and consider , Deut. 4.29 . 't is Soul matter ; Let 's not with false conceits our selves flatter ; Let not untowardness of our flesh hinder , But , John 14.5 . let 's real obedience to Christ tender : Let 's not , like many , whiles they have breath , Rest content , Job 8.13 . & 27.8 . Lord deliver from sudden death ; Say , have mercy , when going to Eternity , Yet in their lives still workers of iniquity ; Yet Christ saith to all such , from me depart , Oh! cast off false hope from thy heart ; With presumptuous conceits let 's not venture Our Souls , Mat. 7.21 . not every saith , Lord , doth enter ; And if the righteous be scarcely saved , What thinkst , 1 Pet. 4.18 . who with sin art deprav'd ? Christs blood must wash thee by renovation , By faith manifested in a holy conversation , Heb. 12.14 . Or no ground in Scripture for salvation ; Then with a speedy impartial examination , Try whether in the way unto salvation . Gal. 6.4 . Don't rest in a false love to Christ , let 's try , Make sure of interest in Christ before we die ; 2 Pet. 1.10 . Know on what ground stand for Eternity ; Here 's the one thing needful , Luke 10.42 . yea so needful , Without it our condition is very dreadful .
Sect. 4. COnsider those things well in thy station , 2 Pet. 1.12 . For glory don't build on a sandy foundation ; Practise love to Christ , don't rest in speculation Without love ; what 's gifts and parts ? alas ! No better than a Cymbal , or founding Brass : 1 Cor. 13.1 , 13. or sounding Brass : Of all gifts , the greatest is love , charity , Then love Christ and one another , I cry , Without love to Christ , Scriptures tell What 's done in way of charity , mind well , If not in love to Christ , may go to Hell ; Heb. 11.6 . Yet many with conceit of merit swell , If give all to the poor , Scripture saith , Nay , our bodies to be burnt , and have Faith To remove mountains , and have not charity , 2 Cor. 13.2 , 3. That 's real love to Christ , am nothing I ; Oh! then let 's our love unto Christ try ; Let 's examine our selves , our hearts prove Whether have no self-end in our love , Joh. 6.26 , 27. Follow Christ for love of loaves , self-end , Jud is like , Hail Master , love pretend ; This will be sad , yet Judas call'd friend . Mat. 26.49 , 50. Was Judas the better ? no more shall we , If love to Christ be not real , fare as he ; If give to the poor , don't think to merit By any thing canst do , that 's a Popish spirit ; If dost give thy body to be burnt , yet see Doth not merit , in love to Christ must be The thoughts of merit thou must flee ; Gal. 5.6 . Do thy duty , merit 's no work for thee , In works of charity eye Christ's command , John 15.14 . Christ commands to feed the poor , and To do our duty , in love to Christ , understand , Not in love of merit , at no hand ; To do thy will , Lord make me understand ; Psa. 143.10 . Full of extreams are many in our days ; To destroy Souls Satan hath many ways ; 2 Cor. 2.11 . Some do good works , on thoughts of merit , Others do not their duty , 1 Tim. 3.7 . such a base spirit Of extreams doth abound in our Land , Mark 8.34 . Few do their duty as Christ's command ; Some do good works , which by reflect , They thoughts of merit in all affect , Others their duty , Christs commands neglect . Luke 9.23 . To both these I shall in love this only say , If they please to consider it by the way , Rom. 2.6 . He that thoughts of merit doth cherish , Rev. 20.13 . And he doth not 's duty , Rom. 2.6 . both shall perish ; Take heed of those extreams , Rev. 20.13 . and love Thy duty ; let not thoughts of merit move ; Observe , 2 Tim. 2.26 . see how many ways Satan hath To betray poor Souls in eternal wrath : Epa. 6.11 . Oh then ! let me a little your hearts move To follow peace and holiness in love . Heb. 12.14 . I need not say , love the world , you are free To follow the world close in every degree : Fear how thou loves the world , 1 Joh. 2.15 . the rather , If love the world , hast not the Father ; Who loves the world is the enemy of God ; Jam. 4.4 . The world's love God thy enemy , fear's Rod , Love to the world , a general sin , still sleeping , Like no sin , Phil. 3.18 , 19. yet Paul told of it weeping : Many walk , of whom I have often told , Enemies to Christ , who love the world bold , Whose end is destruction , do still make Love to the world their ruine , can't forsake The world's gain , Rev. 20.15 . till in the burning Lake . 'T is like David , hath its ten thousand slain , Mind it , and inordinate love refrain : The world's love kept those invited , Luke 14.17 , 18 , 19. at least , From coming to the great Marriage feast ; But of this I have said before compleat , If you with an eye of love retreat ; Come to Christ in love , Rev. 22.17 . at his invitation ; Love to the world will be thy desolation ; Don't sin , love Christ , is thy best gain , What 's world's love you in eternal pain ? Mark 9.44 .
Sect. 5. REader , Isa. 44.3 . consider , thy love to Christ prove , Be restless in heart till the Spirit move , And hast some evidence of Christs love . Without intrest in Christ , Rom. 8.1 . no consolation , Without Christ , Heb. 2.18 . no support under temptation : In prosperity or adversity , Isa. 57.29 . no comfort in life , Nor death , no peace when Conscience at strife : Men by lu●●ing Conscience at present may keep Themselves quiet , 1 Tim. 4.2 . from false love Conscience sleep , But if in Conscience storm arise , wilt weep , Prov. 18.14 . & 11.7 Without Christs love sad fruit wilt reap . Jonas lay asleep till stormy tempests came , Jonah 1.6 . Without intrest in Christ , God's the same , Heb. 13.8 . & 9.14 . With horror , at death , then love Christs name . The Lord knows how soon we may die , Let 's our love to Christ by 's Spirit try : No plaister of love will stick , or on us lie , 2 Cor. 1.21 , 22. Without the Spirit doth Christ's love apply , All other love , comforts , will do no good , Joh. 14.26 . When sorrow and death comes like a flood ; All love of the world at death fail , Without Christ's love heart will quail : For thy Soul's sake , after Christ move ; Job 16.2 . All friends miserable comforters prove ; When God comes to deal with thee for sin , Rom. 14.12 . Set sin home on the Conscience herein : 2 Cor. 5.10 . All guilty of sin of omission and commission ; Rom. 3.23 . Oh! let 's take love's way , holy contrition . Lam. 3.40 . To seal pardon of sin , 't is the Spirit 's love , To work , draw our hearts , Eph. 3.30 . make it move After Christ in love ; Oh! then in love arise From false love , follow the Spirit 's ways : Cant. 1 4. Tho' men be merry for a time , yet sorrow Will overtake them at death , like Gomorrah , Then they will reflect on their ways , cry , Lam. 5.16 . Wo that we have sinned to all eternity ; Then they see nothing but sin behind , And terrours before , then now it mind , And to holiness in thy life be inclin'd : In love arise , don't give sleep to thy eyes , Till an intrest in Christ , this don't despise ; Eph. 5.14 . All God's promises are in Christ Yea and Amen , Still in Christ , love Christ I say agen : 2 Cor. 1.10 . If no intrest in Christ , hast none in God , Col. 3.11 . No intrest in the Promises , in Life so odd , Canst not to thy self any Fromise apply Without an intrest in Christ , then sin flie ; Cast off all sin as the sin of extortion , Happiness lies in having God thy portion . Lam. 3.24 . Whom have I in Heaven , Psal. 144.15 . & 73.25 . O Lord ! but thee ? Nor on Earth like thee , none can compar'd be . Oh! 1 Pet. 2.7 . in heart crown the Prince of Peace , The Lord Christ , this will your love increase ; Receive him in love , Isa. 44.4 . as your Lord and King , He can this grace of love unto you bring : Set a Crown on his head in heart with love , Christ will crown you in Heaven above ; Mat. 25.23 Then love one another , clear up your Union To Christ in love , John 13 35. having communion One with another , let no difference rise In love's way , Christ's Prayer don't despise . Christ pray'd Oh Father ! John 17.22 . let them be one , Shall we not love ? yet love his Prayer run , Laid it as a mark on his here below , By loving one another , shall all men know You are my Disciples , 1 John 3.14 . pass'd from death to life , Love one another , let there not be strife ; Love is fulfilling the Law , love once agen , Fall not out by the way , Gen. 43.8 . you are brethren ; Love one another , for 't is by Love alone , That God and his people shall be one ; God shall be one , Zech. 14.9 . his people one , yet we In our generation , to love real , not free . Christ's Church is imperfect , Heb. 11.40 . Scripture saith , Till Jews and Gentiles are in unity of faith , Jews and Gentiles must own , Scripture Record , Christ , Ephes 4.13 . then let 's love one another in the Lord : Oh! let 's press after love in our degree , With one heart , one mind , serve God more free : 'T is by love Jews and Gentiles can be united ; Love one another , Rom. 15.6 . since so lovingly united .
Sect. 6. REader , 2 Tim. 2.7 . love , if wilt have Christ's protection , If on what 's said of love hast reflection ; 'T is not love the passion , or natural affection , But love wrought by the Spirit , Isa. 26.12 . saving grace , Where this love is , Christ is , don't deface His Image in thy Soul by sin so base . 1 John 4.16 . The fruit of the Spirit is holiness and love ; Gal. 5.22 . 'T is tho Spirit doth holy love in us move ; Love the special grace by which Christ dwells Eph. 2 , 22. In us , by 's Spirit works of sin expels ; Gal. 5.6 . Where love to Christ is , there 's also faith ; Faith works love , love proves fidelity , saith Scripture , faith without love is dead belief ; Jam. 2.16 , 17. Love without faith is sinful relief ; 1 John 4.8 . Where love is , the Father is ; God is love , Phil. 1.11 . He hath this love , grace in him , doth move From sin , dwells in God , God in him , Col. 1.10 . prove Thy love , dost love God in Christ dear ? For where 's this love , the Spirit is clear ; Gal. 5.22 . Where love is , faith's fruits will appear ; Eph. 3.17 . Where this love is , there 's Christ and God , What a sad condition are those so odd , Micah 3.2 . Who in their actions hate with their Rod Of malice God and his people ? yet pretend love Love to Christ , but of love's way don't approve , After holiness in their lives never move . Mat. 26.49 . Many profess Rabbi , Master , Judas like , Yet the first that at godliness will strike , Bow before Christ , with their Hat a flourish , Jer. 18.12 , 18. But in their hearts wickedness they cherish : Here 's their love , if Complements will excuse , They the men , like Judas , Pilate and Jews ; But obedience in love to Christ they refuse . Many's Religion a meer Complement , rude , In conversation wicked , Ezek. 33.31 , 32. yea a multitude Of such among us with self-love delude Themselves by sin , so in false hope conclude , And expose themselves to fearful misery , 2 Pet. 3.1 , 2. As said before , if collect your memory , Which in this Book , if read , mays find Sins dreadful effects , ponder them in mind : 2 Pet. 2.21 . The Lord direct us unto his love alone , Many this way of love have never known : 2 Thes. 3.5 . Is this grace love wrought in us ? admire Free grace , and not our natural desire : Eph. 2.4 , 5. Every good and perfect gift is from above , The donor of all mercy , the God of love ; Jam. 1.17 . Then love not the world , let affections move Towards things eternal , Col. 3.1 , 2. in Heaven above There 's matter enough to draw your love ; If you have tasted the Lord is gracious , 1 Pet. 2 3. Are many Mansions , and walks spacious For love to run , John 14.2 . if art contemplations Love in the highest degree , Gen. 24.63 . if meditations Love , yea oneness in love , love one another , Shall we not love ? John 17.21 . till in Heaven together In Heaven love is for ever , there 's no place For faith , 1 Cor. 13.8 . hope , they end in fruition's race ; Oh! then let 's not this virtue love deface , Not live in love , to a Christian is disgrace , To profess Christian , love only in name , Not live in love one with another is shame . Psal. 82.16 . Consider Reader , 2 Thes. 2.11 , 12. what 's said , this head , I 'le conclude , Do not thy Soul with self-love delude .
Sect. 7. WHat can'st say more ? 2 Tim. 1.6 . my Lines aspire , Go one step higher , for love's desire As motives to spur us , John 3.16 . all in love's way Strain thy string , Eph. 1.4 . let 's hear what canst say ; I have but one way , John 15.16 . if that will move Our hearts , that 's Christs free grace and love , Shall not Christ's love our love constrain ? Eph. 2.4 . Then all I can say will be in vain , 2 Cor. 5.14 . Christ's love to us is love beyond degree , The oftended dies to set the offender free : Rom. 5.10 . 'T is love beyond reach of mens capacity : Shall not Christ's love us move , base are we ; This love of Christ the Angels did admire 1 Pet. 1.10 , 12. His Incarnation , Christ having such desire Of love for 's Elect , Psal. 40.8 . in Christ was no neglect To appease God's wrath , John 4.34 . his love did this effect , Die to reconcile us unto God , Col. 1.21 . when Enemies : Oh the riches of Christ's love ! don 't despise : Shall not this consideration a little move Rom. 2.4 . Our ungrateful hearts for Christ's free love ? Heb. 10.24 . Mind what 's said before of free grace , pray Consider farther , for I have more to say As motives to move us all in love's way ; But none like Christ's love can any say ; Man by sin forfeited not only salvation , But also external mercies in 's generation , Gen 3.17 , 18. by sin lost Brought a curse on the creatures , by sin lost God's favour , to repair this breach cost 1 Pet. 1.18 , 19. Christ's blood , so that in our generation All the mercies we enjoy in our station , Are by Christ's purchase clear and free ; Shall we not love Christ in that degree Of love , in sincere holiness ? base are we , 2 Cor. 1.12 . If not love Christ in holy sincerity . All mercies we enjoy are from God's love ; To make us happy free love did him move : John 3.16 . Consider things as we go , and I will tell Christ hath at 's dispose Heaven and Hell ; Rev. 1.18 . and 8.7 . Christ opens , none shuts , shuts , none open can , If will be happy , love Christ every man ; In his hand is our being , life and breath , Our Souls , and all , Oh! love him till death : Acts 17.25 . Christ will judge every man , and try Us to eternal life , or to eternal misery : 1 Pet. 4.5 . Col. 1.16 , 17. Christ made all things , Earth , Heaven above , He is the great God , and commands our love , The whole world , and every Nation Psal. 18.46 . & 68.20 . Are nothing to him , he is God of salvation ; All to God are like a water drop , and dust In the balance , love him , and in him trust : Isa. 40.15 , 17. & 33.22 . & 54.5 . He is God , whom Angels worship and adore , Then love him , on Christ depend evermore ; He 's our Creator , Law-giver , Soveraign Maker , 'T is free grace , of his love we are partaker : Consider , God deserves love in thy station , More than all great Men in the Nation , Therefore to please Men in thy generation , Don't comply with sin out of a fears Nod , What , afraid of Man shall die ? fear God , Fear not Man , lest thou feel Christ's Rod : I mean , fear not Man sinfully , for alas ! Isa. 51.12 , 13. Poor creature Man shall be as grass , Can 't help 's self , when to Eternity must pass . Then love God , who hath you in 's power , Can make happy or miserable in an hour ; Mat. 28.18 . Keep Covenant with God , he will with you , Love God in Christ , Isa. 51.10 . loves way pursue .
Sect. 8. DOn't those things move ? Rom. 2.5 . I wish you well , If not , fear lest harden'd in way to Hell. Christ saith , John 14.15 . If love , keep his commands , If not , how will Christ take it at our hands ? If to lay down our lives , Luke 9.23 . should not we At Christ's command love in such a degree ? Let 's love one another , lay aside animosity : Let 's cast off division , and love's way take ; Shall we not love for our Saviour's sake ? The Devil and wicked men hold together Luke 23.12 . Against Christ's little flock ; Oh! love for ever ; Stand all together , from love don't sever ; 'T is against the nature of Christ's Sheep , When Wolves abroad should together keep ; Tho' there be a toleration to this day , Yet know , there be many abroad for prey ; Oh! then love one another without delay : See what Paul of dividing love doth say , One is for Paul , 1 Cor. 3.4 . and another for Apollo , You are carnal , love's way do not follow . God of love , and 14 33. is God of order , not confusion , Partiality in holy love is from delusion , If difference in Judgment , Jam. 2.4 . must it in Affection ? Love bears with failings , is not for rejection ; Love covers many infirmities , 1 Pet. 4 8. yet herein Let not thy love encourage any in sin , Set love to work while ; hast breath , For conversion save a Soul from death ; Jam. 5.20 . Consider worth of Souls , let love move In thy generation , Mat. 16 26. this way imploy love , Not in opposing one another , as I have seen Too much of this love in the world been Amongst those profess love to one another , A difference in Opinion from love did sever ; Acts 15 39. What 's the reason we lie under this cheat ? One reason is , Rev. 12.15 . the Devil's subtilty is great ; And from presumption , false security , not fears , Whiles men slept , the enemy sowed tares ; Mat. 13.25 . Satan's policy is to separate and divide Prov. 26.12 . Communion , Union in Holiness can't abide , So fills mens hearts with self-conceited pride ; Acts 5.3 . To hinder love one with another , Satan's feat Is every Opinion is wise in 's own conceit ; Rom. 11.25 . Every one thinks is right , they perfect be , Yet no Church , I read of , had this degree ; and 12.16 . The Churches of Asia were commended , Yet not one of them but had offended ; Rev. 1.4 . Then let us love , let not a circumstance Cause a difference , but let us all advance In love to Christ , and to one another ; I say , Let 's love , as Christ commands , let 's him obey ; John 15.14 . Let 's press after holy love in our degree , We know but in part , in Scripture see , 1 Cor. 13.12 . Therefore our love must imperfect be ; The Angel said , want of love 's against thee , Thou hast left thy first love , all alone , Rev. 2.4 . To consider how 't is in our days , I groan : Most men and women , all seek their own , For the things of Christ love have none , Phil. 2.21 . In those times of blasphemy , who such love To mourn in secret , love to God did move , Jer. 13.17 . Who have been afflicted for sin and shame ; Lord , what wilt do unto thy great Name ? Josh. 7.9 . Little hath Religion had of our tears , Lam. 3.39 . Instead of our love , complaints and fears , That child-like spirit which uses to be In God's Children , is perished , so shall we , If not a filial love to God in that degree , To carry us above love of any but he : Mat. 10.37 . The last days shall be perilous , and we In our generation live those days to see , 1 Tim. 3.1 . Sin abounds , love cold , as Christ saith , When comes on Earth , shall he find Faith ? Mat. 24.12 . Which implys , tho' his Spirit been winning , Luke 18.8 . Last days shall be great times of sinning , The wickedness , coldness of love found , 1 Cor. 10.31 . Signs of Christ's coming , when sins abound , Coldness of one , Mat. 24.10 . abounding of the other , Late experience , few could trust his brother ; When under that dreadful cloud of dangers , Jer. 9.4 . Had we love of relations ? no , from strangers Love of relations ; Mat. 24.10 . if did see a brother run , If we entertain you , we shall be undone ; 'T is truth , Prov. 27.10 . Reader , as clear as the Sun. This their love ; but Jehovah did provide By 's Providence , Job 38.41 . of strangers were supply'd , For them I pray in glory may be dignifi'd ; I pray for any that did poor Souls feed , Lord , 2 Tim. 1.16 . shew mercy , when most mercy need .
Sect. 9. COnsider those things , 2 Pet. 1.12 . Reader , in thy station , Let love work towards thy near relation , Wife and Children , love their salvation : If thy Wife be unbelieving , 1 Cor. 7.12 , 13 , 14. pray in love , Pray again in faith , God's Spirit can move Her heart with love , he works saving faith , Labour to gain thy Wife , Scripture saith , Edifie one another in the most holy faith : Jude 20. This is God's way , and way of holy love ; Oh! in way of holiness after salvation move : If unbelieving Husband , let Wife likewise Do her duty in love , 1 Cor. 7.16 . to pray don't despise : Oh! that there were many such in our days , Few that live to their Maker's praise , 'T is for want of understanding God's ways : Few understand that Covenant obligation , Between Husband and Wife , in their station , They should be one in love , Eph. 5.31 . in edification , In love labour for one anothers salvation , And design God's glory in their generation : Be not unequally yoked , 2 Cor. 6.14 . Scripture saith , Do not marry any are not of a Gospel Faith , For love of riches ; 1 Cor. 6.16 . take heed , God is just , 'T is not marrying in God's fear , but of lust , The lust of the world , and pride of life Passeth away , 1 John 2.16 , 17. therefore love a holy Wife ; Many aim in marriage to advance station In the world , little mind in their generation God's glory , or their own precious Souls salvation , 1 Cor. 10.31 . Yet worldly things to be minded in our station , But all to God's glory must be in subordination . End of marriage few practically understand , Want of which , few do their duty , Col. 3.18 , 19. and Is cause of much discord in the Land : Husbands sometimes out of holy love's way , Wives in love don 't their Husbands obey , Tit. 2.5 . But discontent and confusion in their lives , Few converted by conversation of Wives , 1 Pet. 3.1 . to v. 8. Few the ornament of a quiet spirit in subjection , How few in love live in holy affection ? Also Husbands sad experience doth tell , Few in holy love with their Wives dwell , Instead of living in love , contentious strife ; Many , instead of love , as Husband and Wife , Are contentious , wicked , in their lives so odd , Rom. 3.17 , 18. All 's for want of love the true fear of God ; How cross are many under Satan's power , By wicked strife do one another devour ; Gal. 5.15 . The condition of many families that dwell In England , their lives like a forerunner of Hell , Whence comes this disorder and confusion ? Jam. 3.14 , 16 , 17. From the Devil , the spirit of delusion : God is in the still voice , whereas peace and love , Satan's for thundring discords doth move ; 1 Kin. 19.12 . The wisdom from above is peace , not evil ; Discord and confusion is from the Devil . What sad families are in our English Nation ? Know nothing of their Souls renovation : Many are wise to the world in their station , Jer. 4.22 . But know little of loves way to salvation , Prudent and careful for the bodies preservation , 1 Cor. 2.14 . But fools , and dead to their Souls salvation , As in Egypt , when one dead in every family , No question , there was a dreadful cry , Exod. 12.30 . But in England , Oh! that it were not true , Are many families live , like a wicked crew , Dead Husband , Rom. 8.5 , 6. dead Wife , Children and all , Don't do family duty , Jer. 10.25 . nor on God call , Don't know love's way , nor things spiritual . Many Parents will play in this hurl , When Children are careful for the world , They then say unto them all , well done ; Few say , how is 't with thy Soul , my Son ? If carefully for worldly things look after , Then Children are their Parents laughter ; Prov. 10.1 . Few say , how is 't with thy Soul , my Daughter ? How is 't between God and Soul for salvation ? Deut. 6.7 . This question let alone in their generation ; Carefulness is our duty in our station , But must be , as said before , in subordination . To God's glory , in furthering our salvation , Many Elies in the world are conniving 1 Sam. 2 . 2● , 24. At Childrens sin , when in the world thriving ; So there are many Nabals , a meer churl Unto their Children in the world . Reader , understand this , the rather Because I have been abus'd by my Father , And so I have too , if truth wilt know , Been abus'd also by my Father-in-law ; What shall I say ? I know not what , But only this , it is my fate and lot , The Lord forgive them , Acts 7.60 . I will still pray I hate malice , I am still for loves way ; I pray for all have done me wrong , Either in action , in thought or tongue ; This is loves way , as the Scripture saith , Which to us is the only Rule of Faith , But Scriptures are by some cast by rejection In the last days , Tim. 3.3 . many without natural affection ; Unnaturalness is a curse laid on men By reason of sin , as a Judgment ; for when Any are given up to sin , by reflection , 'T is dreadful to be without natural affection , Are worse than the Beasts , Job . 35.11 . they are inclin'd To be tender of their young , in kind ; Unnaturalness doth argue a wicked mind , To be without natural affection so odd , That man hath nothing of the Nature of God : Psal. 103.13 . See , Reader , how many ways Satan hath To betray poor Souls to eternal wrath ; 2 Cor. 2.11 . Some are too fawning on Children by reflection , Others are as bad , without natural affection ; To extreams , all men and women too prone , All care is for the body by every one , Phil. 2.21 . But to care for the soul , that 's let alone : How wil't go with my poor soul for ever ? Jer. 8.6 . Few make such a question , Mat. 8.2 . but still persever In false hope , till death , then they quiver , When God , the soul , shall from him sever From enjoying his glory , Luke 13.27 , and that for ever Awake from the dead , and love's way take , Rom. 13.11 . Thy salvation or damnation lies at stake ; Up , be doing , in love's way for salvation , Jam. 5.16 . Pray for Wife and Children in thy station , Deut. 4.9 . Teach them God's fear in their generation ; Let 'em know what 's to fear God , by education ; Oh! were this practised more in the Nation , It would prevent wrath falling for desolation ; Col. 3.16 . Pray in faith and love to God for England , Pray in thy family , Psal. 32.6 . let servants understand The fear of God , so do his command ; Pray God would divert his Judgments , and That God would continue the Gospel in England . and 122.6 . Thus , in love , to fear God , do you accord , And Children , obey your Parents in the Lord ; Ephes. 6.1 , 6. Parents , to provoke your Children , don't afford , Or give occasion , here 's what Scriptures record ; Servants , be faithful to your Masters word , Col. 3.22 , 23. Not with eye-service , but as unto the Lord , Heartily , honestly , in love , saith the Word , Children and Servants , learn to fear God , Train them in love's way , fear his Rod ; Prov. 22.6 . Be holy in love , fear God all thy life , Prov. 3.7 . Take love's way , and rule , don't live at strife , Jam. 3.16 . But live in love with Children and Wife ; Have a Church in thy house , saith the Word , Phil. 1.2 . Resolve , Josh. 24.15 . with Joshua , to serve the Lord , Do duty in love , don't delay for shame , God hath wrath for them call not on 's Name ; Jer. 10.25 . Be doing in love's way , for thy soul's sake , Dreadful to be cast in the burning Lake . Rev. 20.15 .
Sect. 10. COnsider what 's said , Psal. 14.2 , 3 , 4. before my Lines cry , To think in England are many sad family ; Therefore rouse man , let me a little move Thy heart to follow holy , Heb. 12.14 to God in love ; Love God , and his ways do you approve . Say some , Object . you say , love God , who doth not ? Ar't free to speak ? Sol. thy Arrow soon shot , But let 's try , and in the end I doubt , Whether canst love to God make out ; What hath love cost thee ? what hast done For Christ ? Mat. 7.21 . 't is not love , as tongue run ; If thou see Christ's Intrest lie at stake , What wouldst do ? which side wouldst take ? Must be Pro or Con , in Scripture see , Christ saith , Luke 11.23 . he that 's not for , 's against me . Intrest doth in us always move affection , Psal. 103.13 . Doth eccho love to Christ by reflection ; Love Christ real , if expects his protection . Don't pretend love , yet with the world combine , Against Christ for self intrest , if so , t is sign Art for self-love , from Christ dost decline . Love to Christ will in action it self express , Mat. 26.7 . Who hast visited in those days of distress ; Hath love been to Widdows and Fatherless ? Jam. 1.27 . This is love's pure Religion before God , Instead of love , it may be a hateful Nod , If so , Prov. 14.21 . take heed least feel Christ's Rod. Many whose friends are exil'd and dead , Are in a sad condition , may lack bread ; Such need thy love , take heed and see , Christ saith , Mat. 25.45 . if not those , not to me That is to any stand in need of Charity . Don't complement with Christ , we eat And drink in thy presence ; Luke 13.26 , 27. do not cheat Thy soul , only profess love , Satan's feat , To destroy souls , only profess and talk , Will deceive , unless love's way we walk ; Luke 6.46 . Many pretend love , to thee I will impart Few is Christ the object of their heart . 2 Chro. 6.14 . Many Professors that drive great trade , For self-ends profess , by it are made , Acts 19.25 . But when should stand for Christ , John 6.66 . evade retrograde From the interest of Gospel grace , the Ark , They not troubled , that 's not their mark , 1 Sam. 4.13 Who trembles for fear of the Gospel , few Elies , Watch , tremble , with tears in their eyes ; Where 's the man refuseth comfort in 's life , v. 20 , 22. For fear of the Gospel , like Phinehas Wife ? Where are our Moses , stand in the gap , Psal. 106.23 . Our Elijahs , Vriahs , that fear God's lap ? Some such there are by grace , for mercy call , Isa. 1.9 . For a remnants sake , are not destroy'd all ; Acts 18.17 . Most like Gallio , care not for Religion's way , Are for civil concernments every day , For meum and tuum , how Trading goes on , For intrest of the Gospel , that 's let alone , Yet profess , go to the High Priest's Hall , If try their love , deny Christ and all ; Mat. 26.56 , 58 , 72. Tho' the Gospel and Christ in word don't deny , Yet , if in question , with the world comply ; Pretend love to Christ , yet part take With sin , so Christ in action forsake , If can enjoy the world , let the Gospel go , Remember , for them is an eternal woe , Amos 6.1 , 2. Who never consider Sion in distress , Nor fear the Gospels danger , tho' profess , Rev. 2.5 . In Hell their condition will be remediless ; What profit if the whole world gain Mat. 16.26 . And lost their souls in everlasting pain ?
Sect. 11. COnsider , Reader , what 's said in thy station , 2 Tim. 2.7 . Try thy love , do not rest in speculation ; Love to Christ will appear in conversation ; Mat. 7.16 . Think it not love to Christ enough to be Of this or that Opinion , and 10.73 . because we Go under such a notion , 't is not that degree Of love that brings to Christ then see On what ground stands for eternity ; Mat. 7.21 . Without holiness there is no salvation , And holiness is but our sincere dedication Heb. 12.14 . To God in our lives and conversation , In this consisteth our real sanctification , 1 Thes. 4.3 , 4. In living unto God by holy resignation ; 'T is only this , whatever in men lurks , Shew forth thy faith by thy works ; Jam. 2.18 , 26. The great question will be , when tryed , Have we liv'd unto Christ who died ? Or to carnal self , who hath thy heart Most , Jer. 2.13 . God or the world ? fear this will part God and thy soul ; consider thy end , Be holy in heart , Gal. 2.20 . and on Christ depend For salvation , own him as Soveraign King In thy heart by faith , 1 Cor. 1.30 . 't is the only thing God requires ; and although hone can Pay God his due , yet sav'd is no man Without God , Col. 1.18 . have the preheminence in chief , God must rule in heart by holy belief , If have Jesus , Ephes 3 17. a Saviour , saith the Word , Must receive him also as Christ a Lord , He 's Jesus a Saviour , only to those afford Obedience to him as their King and Lord , Heb. 5.9 . The distinction point by Scripture Rod , He doth not righteousness , 1 John 3.10 . is not of God , Live a holy dependance on God alway , Psal. 71.5 . In love to God do duty , Mat. 26.41 . watch and pray , Rest not in being of this or that Opinion , Whether Presbyterian , Anabaptist or Arminian , Or any other Judgment in thy station , These are Egyptian Reeds to rest on for salvation . Opinion will not pass for Religion , when We must appear before Christ ; 2 Cor. 5.10 . Oh! then , As we profess , so let 's do Jehovah's will , And not be found workers of iniquity-still ; Mat. 7.23 . 'T is not he that of God and Christ doth talk , But he that in love with Christ doth walk In holy obedience , he is the Christian alas ! Luke 6.46 . Easie from one Opinion to another pass ; 'T is an easie thing to take up a name , And by Profession promote a man's fame , Psal. 83.16 . When man's actions in his life cry shame . 'T is very easie to unite ones self with all , To be of this or that Form , as some it call , To be of this Worship , or of that way ; But where 's the Christian all this while pray ? Where 's that 's profess'd according to the Word ? Mat. 7.21 . 'T is not enough to say still , Lord , Lord , The whole constitution must be renew'd , Flesh to be mortifi'd , sin to be subdu'd , Rom. 12.2 . Must be a change , self must be deny'd , Col. 3.5 , 6. Yea and the world also to be crucifi'd . Luke 9.23 . Consider , Reader , this is no small matter , Gal. 6.14 . With an Opinion let 's not our selves flatter : Gospel Religion is no idle speculation , Not only bare Profession in our station , Only a form of godliness in our generation ; Tit. 1.16 . We must live according in conversation : The life of Religion lies in faith's fruit , Phil. 1.27 . In holy obedience to God , without dispute Inward and outward man , 't is only this , For pure godliness is still God's likeness ; There cannot be a greater derogation Tit. 2.13 , 14. Unto God and the Gospel in our station , Than to live a carnal life in conversation ; Only in words profess God , 't is very plain , Yet not live according , I say it again , Is taking God's holy Name in vain . 2 Cor. 5.17 . The Christian is a new creature I still cry , As we name Christ , let 's depart iniquity : Let 's practise holiness , as on the means intendant , 2 Tim. 2.19 . 'T is easie to say I am so , an Independant , If not loves fruit , what 's the end on 't ? 'T is living the Gospel in our conversation , Intiles to glory ; 't is not safe in our station To lay the stress of eternal salvation On the being of any Opinion ; Mat. 18.3 . 't is renovation Must pass on thy soul in thy generation ; Iohn 2.3 . Without this , never will enjoy glorification : Say some , Object . this is a hard saying , who can Then be sav'd ? Sol. what 's impossible with man , Is possible with God ; Mat. 19.25 , 26. be humble , and pray To God for his Spirit , this is love's way ; The Spirit 's love can convince thy need Dan. 9.21 , 22. Of Christ , John 16.8 . pray the Spirit will love breed ; When the enemy shall come on like a flood , The Spirit 's love can stand for thy good ; Isa. 59.19 . The Spirit alone can open blind eyes , The Spirit 's work to turn from the ways Acts 26.18 . Of sin unto God , 1 Thes. 5 19. the Spirit doth love raise . To conclude this head , consider and look , Reader , and practise what 's written in this book , Hate sin , practise holiness , without delays , Then shall live for ever to thy Redeemer's praise . 2 Tim. 2.7 .
Sect. 12. ONE word more , Prov. 4.13 . and 10.17 . so hasten to an end , To spur in loves way , I hope don't offend You that profess love , love without delay , Don't you comply with the world pray , Joh. 6.66 , 67. Lest with grief cause Christ to say , As to his Disciples , Will ye also go away ? Part with Christ here , Jer. 13.17 . truth I will tell , Thou shalt part from Christ into Hell ; Take heed of Apostacy , consider what 's said well , To apostate from Gospel Religion , how prone Unto Superstition and Idolatry every one ; Exod. 32 4 , 8. The Children of Israel , Aaron in their behalf , In Moses absence , presently made a Molten Calf ; The Galatians , Gal. 1.6 . they errours so much lov'd , That from Gospel-worship were soon remov'd : Satan sows this wicked seed , Mat. 13.25 , 39. 't is his feat , So most of the world Satan doth cheat Of their salvation , as my Lines impart , Keeps possession of every unbelieving heart . Luke 11.21 . There 's an evil heart of unbelief in the best , But in the wicked it doth raign and rest ; Heb. 3.12 . They are inclin'd unto Idolatry so odd , So they depart from the Living God ; How often doth the Apostle the people call Jam. 4.4 . Adulterers and Adulteresses ? they did fall , As now , from Gospel-worship , to worship Baal . Most men had rather be by reflection , Of that Religion is uppermost , for protection , Acts 19.24 . In the world to be advanc'd , are so deprav'd By sin , than be of that Religion crav'd , Which would lead them as to be sav'd : They for this world are so at strife , Mat. 22.5 . Prefer present vanities before eternal life . Take heed of backsliding and Apostacy , Dread how with the world you comply ; 'T is very dreadful in Hell for ever to lie : Gal. 1.8 , 9. Stand up against superstitious Idolatries bold , Let them be cursed that against Scriptures hold : Let your zeal be kindled evermore Rev. 17.4 . Against every Bracelet of the Scarlet Whore. If any man draw back from , in his station , Gospel-worship , or from Gospel-conversation ; Heb. 10.38 . Christ saith , read that Scripture at leisure , My soul in him shall have no pleasure : Woe to him that Christ is not his Advocate , Keep to Gospel-worship , mind your eternal state ; Phil. 3.2 . Take heed of deceitful workers , I still cry , Dread of dissembling , and hypocrisie ; Thy spiritual state try by a spiritual eye , God knows thy heart's intention , Psal. 44.21 . he will spy What end thou hadst in love , if God cry An Hypocrite , only a Professor , woe to eternity ; Jer. 17.10 . Dread of an Hypocrite , thy self fear , Job 8.13 . Lest said before Angels , an Hypocrite is here ; Mind Hypocrites portion , they must dwell , Mat. 24.51 . Where s weeping and gnashing of teeth in Hell : Fear , Satan hath baits for all qualities , Not only with flesh and blood , Eph. 6.12 . but principalities Thou must fight with , to obtain love's way , Satan is cunning Fisher , waits for prey , 1 Tim. 3.7 . Will insnare thee , if out of love's way : Satan turns himself an Angel of Light , Makes his baits to sin pleasant in sight , 2 Cor. 11.14 . Take heed of 's deceits and wicked infusion , Is still a roaring Lion , 1 Pet. 5.8 . a spirit of delusion ; This you may see in this Book compleat , If with an eye of love you retreat ; If morally righteous , 2 Pet. 3.1 , 2. let not this cheat Thy soul , because not a sinner so great As some others , but , who hath thy heart ? God or the world most ? fear this will part God and thy soul , if mind earthly things More than God , Phil. 3.19 . everlasting death brings ; With the heart are said to forsake God , Not with our feet , Psal. 10.3 , 4. when affections so odd Are set on vanity in the Land of Nod : This is forsaking the Creator , Col. 3.2 , 5. and herein Be estrang'd from God in heart , no greater sin ; Don't think , Prov. 20.9 . and 30.12 . because no drunkard , swearer , or any Notorious sin in life appears , art free , This conceit been the ruine of many , If rested in , Luke 18.11 . will also of me and thee . To conclude , I 'll sum up all so short I can , Leave consideration of all to any honest man ; Prevalency , predominancy of sin in heart , Will cause God and Soul at last to part ; Mark 8.34 . We must deny our selves , life , and all That 's near and dear , Luke 9.23 . if Christ for it call . Here 's the parting point , take heed and see Nothing stand between Christ and thee ; Mat. 19.22 . Be not overcome of evil , tho' withstood , But overcome evil by Faith in Christ's blood . Rom. 12.21 . Thus friends , my Lines have so far extended In love , 1 Tim. 4.15 . and 2.13 , 11. much more than what I intended ; If any on what I have done is offended , Cast it from him , the matter is ended . To conclude , with love's peace I wish all well , Live in love , Gal. 6.16 . grace be to all God's Israel .
Sect. 13. NOw Readers , Prov. 4.13 . you see my Book 's concluded , To sum up all what in it is included , Very briefly , and plainly , without delay At the last there will come a terrible day , Acts 17.31 . When all Mankind shall be summon'd away . Rich and Poor , without difference of degrees , Before Christ , to receive their Eternal Fees. When Crowns of Kings , now so highly deem'd , Acts 10.34 , 35. And Rags of Beggars , all one then esteem'd The Peasants Russet , and the Gallants bravery , The Courtiers Luxury , and Polititians knavery , The Schollars curiosity , and all mens pride , And all vain fancy shall be laid aside , Rev. 20.13 . And without respect of Persons , will be try'd According to their works , Christ sentence divide , Rom. 2.16 . Then Mass , Superstition , and all Formalities Us'd in Episcopacy , and also Poperies Fopperies In worship ; Complements , which men Idolise , Which are now the darling sins of our days . Rom. 10.3 . The self-justiciary in way of legality , And also them of an Antinomian quality , Tit. 1.16 . Will then prove but sinful acted vanities , 2 Thes. 2.11 , 12. From a delusion of the Father of Lies . The luxurious Riot , and swaggerings of Pride , The nice , and quaint lasciviousness descry'd , Isa. 28.1 , 3. Interlar'd , and complemental Oaths beside , New invented Courtings , and Beauties Adoration , Out of Gods mouth , have pronunciation To be but a meer glittering abomination , 2 Thes. 2.12 . Then the adulterating , of Wars in the Nation , Counterfeiting of lights , Mic. 6.10 . in their station Double Weights , false Measures , in mens Generation , The courteousness of mens equivocation , Prov. 26.25 . Greedy of gain , which is , of men retrograde From godliness , acted in almost every Trade Mat. 7.23 . Will then be found but actions of iniquity , And Soul-deceiving into Eternal misery . Col. 2.8 . The curious subtilties of wit so choice , The knotty questions , and vain strife of voice , 2 Tim. 2.23 . Variety of reading , and disputes of reason , Of general and secular Learning in this Season Pursu'd , with so much eagerness in the Nation , By the more ingenious Spirits , in their Station Will be found but Cobwebs of falsification , Jer. 9.14 . And vanishing delicacies of prophanation , Whose end and reward is Eternal damnation . Mat. 23.33 . Then the poor , despis'd Profession understand Of the power of godliness , on the other hand , A trembling at the Word of Gods command . Isa. 66.2 . A scrupulous and conscious forbearation , Not only of Oaths , Mat. 12.36 . but Idle words in Station . A tenderness and aptness in our Generation To bleed at any sin , in our Conversation ; A boldness against Idolatry now in England , 1 Cor. 10.14 . And all corruptions , now to withstand A Conscience , 1 Thes. 5.22 . but of the appearance of evil ; This inrageth wicked men , and the Devil , To walk humbly before God till dissolution ; To be strict and circumspect in resolution ; Walk in an exact Geometrical Station Of holiness , Eph. 5.15 , 16. in our Conversation , In the midst of a crooked perverse Generation . Phil. 2.15 . This the World disesteems and scorns then , As peevishness of few silly unpolitick Men , Joh. 7 48 , 49. Shall then from God himself in that day , Be declar'd to be the true narrow way Mat. 7 14. Which only leadeth unto Salvation , The Enemies thereof must to desolation And cry , Acts 26.24 . We counted their Life madness , And their end to be only meer sadness ; We never thought of Soul-spiritual gladness : But now they injoy glory so weighty , 2 Cor. 4.17 . Have their portion with the Almighty , Then remember , now , Oh remember truth , Thy Creator in the days of thy youth , Eccles. 12.1 . While the evil days come not nigh . Remember death will not pass you by ; There 's no pleasure in sin when come to dye : Rom. 6.21 . Yet rejoice , O young man , in thy youth , Is but an Ironical expression of the truth ; Let thy heart cheer thee , in sin take part ; Walk in the ways of thy own heart , And in the sight of thy own Eye , Eccles. 11.9 . But to tell truth , 't is but plain mockery ; Then know , tho' holiness be thy grudgment , 2 Cor. 5.10 . For all these things , must come to Judgment . Oh think then what 't is will thee stand In stead , when judg'd by the Almighty's hand ! When Death and Judgment come on rise Don't after vanity so much be at strife , Joh. 6.27 . But labour for that indures to Eternal Life . Lay up treasures in Heaven , Scriptures unfold , Luke 12.33 . Get our selves Bags which wax not old . Oh don't be presumptuous in sin still bold . What will Learning or all Riches , man hath , Prov. 11.4 . Profit in the great day of Gods wrath ? Oh cast off sin , and walk holiness path ! 1 Tim. 6.17 . Oh would men consider their latter end : For that 's well ends well , says a Friend . Deut. 32.29 . Laugh he that laughs at last , behold The end of the upright , Scriptures unfold , However , ill soever , tho' troubles increase In the world , the end of such is peace ; Psal. 37.37 . But as for sinners , who still grow worst , Isa. 65.20 . Tho' live an hundred years , yet dye accurs'd . Tho' have past mans day of approbation , Yet in that day meet with Gods reprobation . Psal. 73.7 . Tho' have more than their hearts desire ; Eyes stand out with fatness , they aspire In voluptuousness in their Generation ; 1 Cor. 6.9 , 10. Yet , without in Christ , must to damnation . Oh cast off sin , now in Conversation ; Eph. 5.5 . Labour by Faith in Christ for renovation . Oh how much better ! as the Scriptures tell , To be a Lazarus here , and hereafter dwell With Lazarus , than to be , mind it well , Luke 16 , 20 , 22 , 24. A Dives here , and to be with Dives in Hell. Oh then labour to be righteous , I still cry ! Whether rich or poor , as my lines imply ; For when death comes to close thy Eye , Num. 23.10 . Thou wilt wish the righteous death to dye , Then live the life of the right'ous say I , Live to Christ by faith , Psal. 37.34 . don't false hope pretend , Admire free grace in sparing you , life amend , Consider what 's said , I wish as a friend , Bring forth fruit , unto holiness attend , Eternal life and glory shall be your end ; Rom. 2.7 . To do duty do not delay , but rest on none For salvation , but on Jesus Christ alone . Reader , consider in Love what my Lines tell , Practise holiness , Eph. 3.17 . by faith let Christ dwell In you , 2 Cor. 13.11 . on Christ depend , so farewel .
Sect. 14. THE result of all , Mat. 24.13 . what I have crav'd Be holy , on Christ depend , shall be sav'd ; Lord write those things by grace in my heart , And thy Spirit 's operation , whiles I impart Truth to others , 1 Cor. 9.26 , 27. let me not be cast away , But Lord guide me by thy Spirit I pray ; Give grace whiles in the world Husnance , Isal. 143.10 . That thy creature thy glory may advance : I have cast thy seed at thy command , 'T is thou Lord makes me to understand Luke 5.5 . Those things , Psal. 94.10 . take thine own into thy hand , Make it an instrument of much good , and Lord follow it with thy blessing in England ; Thou canst make weak ones instrumental 1 Cor. 1.27 . Of bringing many unto life eternal ; Let thy Spirit work by his motions free Internally on the external means in degree : 2 Cor. 3.6 . Lord make it effectual , let this Book free Many from Satan's bondage , so live to thee ; Take all the glory , Acts 26.18 . 't is thine in every degree ; Let all the glory of my glory still be To give all glory , Rom. 11.36 . and my self to thee ; Oh! thou who art my souls rich store , Let me fall down , humbly thee implore For free grace in Christ reveal'd to me , As I have receiv'd , 1 Cor. 4.7 . let the glory return to thee ; Oh my Lord ! divorce my self from me , Then single I will single worship thee ; Gal. 2.20 . One wish more for better two than one , And 't is not good for man to be alone ; Eccles. 4.10 . That I may to thee double honour give , Let thine in me , me in thy Spirit live : 2 Tim. 1.14 . Thy Spirit can direct , he 's still the same , Therefore all glory unto thy glorious Name . Deut. 28.58 .
The Epistle to the Reader , in it good news To Elected sinners , whether Gentiles or Jews . Concerning Free grace , a few lines more , Which should have been in page 167 before . SAnctification is wrought in us , 't is plain , 1 Pet. 1.2 . By the Spirit , Election is of the same Chain ; For all whom God did purpose , still According to the good pleasure of his will , Eph. 1.4 , 5. To elect unto life and eternal salvation , Them God foreknew in 's eternal dispensation , Them only God calleth by Justification , And in them works effectual sanctification : Rom. 8.29 , 30. The decree of Election is the foundation Of happiness , effected by the operation Of the Spirit , in working our renovation ; Having this seal , holiness the cause this , 2 Tim. 2.19 . The Lord knoweth who are really his ; Whom he foreknew , he did predestinate , Chose them freely , I would debate , As a Potter out of divers lumps of Clay Chuseth some , and others casteth away ; He maketh some unto honour , by name , Rom. 9.21 . And accordingly worketh their frame ; So God works freely in all his Elect , Isa. 26.12 . Some God maketh choice of , others reject ; Eph. 1.11 . So declares the riches of his glory , In making some few meet for his auditory ; Freely qualifies them for Heaven's place , Preparing them all by sanctification's Race , 2 Thes. 2.13 . Imputing unto them in their generation Christ's righteousness , who is our salvation ; So righteous before God , being sanctifi'd , And cleans'd by Christ's blood , 1 Joh. 1.7 . by faith apply'd , Which righteousness or holiness so done , In us , is purchas'd by Christ the Son , As in the fulness of time did run : God sent forth his Son , Gal. 4.4 , 5 , 6. made of a woman , To redeem us , not by free will , of no man , Christ became obedient to death , freely runs , That we might receive Adoption of Sons By Christs resurrection , 1 Pet. 1.3 . and ascention , All this is free grace , in my apprehension , Because Sanctification , Eph. 4.7 , 8. and Justification , Are clear'd to us , Rom. 8.11 . by the Spirits operation The effect , of which is a holy Conversation . See , Rom. 8.15 . for this in Scripture , the rather , The Spirit of adoption , will cry , Abba Father , In all the elect , in their Conversation , And are called , 1 Pet. 2.8 , 9. holy , a chosen generation , Which doth imply , electing , grace still , And not , in the power of mans free will , The manifestation , Psal. 27.17 . of free electation , And Justification , of elect , in their generation , The time of effecting , their sanctification Is not reveal'd unto them , in their Station , At any certain time , Mat. 25.13 . of age or day , Some are call'd , the Scriptures say , At the third hour , without delay , Some call'd , And 20.3 , 5 , 6. the sixth hour , come away , Some others , at the eleventh hour , Admire free grace , God is God of power , Giveth some a strong , Rom. 4.20 . and 14.1 . some a weak faith , Some , that fear the Lord , Scripture saith , But walk in darkness , see little light Are under , many doubts , and fears , in sight , As to assurance , Isa. 50.10 . are in a darkness night ; Yet trust in God , he can clear , your way , Depend on him , let God be your Stay , Pray to God , Isa. 40.29 , 30 , 31. on the means , be attendant , As a poor creature , on God dependant For his holy Spirits , operating free grace To make clear , thy election , in your race , Whether belong , Gal. 6.4 . to Gods chosen number When most are left in sin , to slumber , Admire Gods free grace , I say still , To come to God is not of mans free will , Joh. 6.44 . Which may see , if read more clear , By what follows , by Scripture , appear , Read distinctly , whether age or youth , Be sure you apply rightly the truth , 2 Tim. 2.7 . You will see , free grace advanced still , And not the arrogancy , of mans free will , Consider well , what my lines express , I aim at matter , I am no Poet , I confess , Look you more at meat , than the dress , 1 Cor. 10.15 . And God , with his free grace , you bless : To conclude my epistle , I wish all well , Grace be to you , and to all Gods Israel , Gal. 6.16 . To God my prayer , for you shall advance , Whiles I am your friend , Stephen Husnance . 2 Tim. 4.22 .
A word or two , concerning Gods free grace , 2 Tim. 2.7 . And mans free will , in its natural race . Obj. SAy some before you pass on your way , Distinguish , free grace , and free will we pray , Concerning both let 's hear what you say , According to Scripture the truth display — Sol. To answer , your desire , I will in love apply My self , consider it as you pass by , 1 Cor. 10.15 . Then know free grace I will still advance , Whiles I am in the World Husnance , Free will I can't advance at no hand , 'T is of grace , any is sav'd , as I understand , Eph. 2.8 . We like a company of Malefactors cast , Gen. 2.17 . and 3.17 . By sin , by Gods law sentence on us past , The sin of those Malefactors brought death On all by law , yet whiles they had breath , The King freely one of those would save , The rest must dye , the King ones life gave , Was guilty as the rest , the King not bound To save him , 't was free mercy he found ; 'T is so with us , Tit. 2.14 . we by sin God's favour lost , Justice for Execution cry'd , to appease it cost Christ's blood , Ezek. 16.5 , 6. out of free love , not bound To save any , 't was mercy lost man found , God manifesteth more grace in saving any , Rom. 11.22 . Than severity of Justice in destroying many ; Man wilfully sinn'd against God , 't was love In God to pity man , Joh. 3.16 . free grace did move , Not man's free will , to come to God , for he Did run from God behind the Tree ; Gen. 3.8 . God call'd to Adam , in the Scripture see , Not he to God , his will , no such degree , Had not free grace pitied him , yea did run To Adam , or else had been for ever undone : God commanded Adam , don't sin , that 's evil , Yet Adam's will led him to please the Devil . If Adam's free will in Innocency did lean To sin , Prov. 20.9 . who of us can say , My heart 's clean ? Man's will not only blemish'd with indisposition , Jer. 44.16 . But also byass'd to God's with opposition ; Man's will not subject to the will of God , Mat. 23.37 . Nor can be subject , by nature so odd , And averse , Rom. 8.7 . natural men don't understand , Nor love the things of God , 1 Cor. 2.14 . till God's hand Makes a willing people , by 's power in 's day , By 's Spirit regulates our wills in his way . Psal. 110.3 . Men naturally are dead spiritually , no love To spiritual things , till free grace us move ; Man's will not only impotent , but obstinate , Resists the Spirit 's motions whiles unregenerate . Acts 7.51 . Man by nature so far from doing a good act , He can't so much as a good thought effect ; Papists say , man hath some seed of good , But Scriptures don 't , that I ever understood , Whiles in a natural state , in Scripture find , An enemy against God is a carnal mind ; Rom. 8.7 . Tho' many have had very great dispute Concerning free will , yet we see sad fruit ; Hot disputes about free will are banding , Yet man 's like the Beast , without understanding , Psal. 49.20 . Will , a self-determining faculty yet withstood , Jer. 44.26 . By its corruptions not inclinable to good , Joh. 8.44 . But to evil , by sad experience , and herein Abhor thy self , God 's not the Author of sin ; Job 42.6 . Be humble for corrupted nature , take heed Jam. 1.13 , 14 What thoughts of free will thou breed ; Don't plead sin's excuse , 1 Joh. 3.8 . God will confute Thy plea , without the wedding garment mute ; Mat. 22.12 . Make use of reason , understanding assent , Will regulate and draw your consent , 1 Cor. 14.20 . Understanding , affection , conscience at least Are principal in man , will is in beast . Now , Reader , you may plainly see still Free grace only leads to God , not free will , Man's will being corrupted and deprav'd , Eph. 2.8 . It must be by free grace we are sav'd : Object . If this be truth , then a question crav'd , Jer. 10.23 . Whence is 't man's will should exalted be To come to God ? can he attain this degree ? Some are free to give man this liberty : Sol. No , Christ is the way , I must tell thee , Joh. 14.6 . There 's no other name or way , and herein 'T is the blood of Christ only cleanseth sin ; 1 John 1.7 . Tho' many in conceit of their free will run , None comes to God but by the Son ; Acts 4.12 . To attribute that to man's will , I 'll impart , Which is from grace , is from a proud heart ; 2 Cor. 3.5 . Proud man would be something , that he Might glory , not all to Christ beholden be ; Gal. 5.26 . Thus lies fallen forlorn man , and degenerate , Rom. 1.21 , 22. Lockt up in obstinacy , darkness , Micah 3.2 . doth hate God and godliness , living in unbelief still , Minding his own things , doing his own will ; 2 Pet. 2.1 , 2. So by sin man works his own damnation , Unless God's Spirit works his regeneration ; The Spirit alone can open blind eyes , The Spirit 's work 's to turn from the ways Acts 26.18 . Of sin and Satan unto God , by his displaies . Don't stifle the Spirit 's motions when alive , 1 Thes. 5.19 . The Spirit with thee may not always strive , Gen. 6.3 . Thy sin may hinder the Spirit , herein The Spirit works so far , no excuse for sin ; Rom. 1.20 . Grieve not the Spirit , for without exemption The Spirit seals the day of Redemption ; Ephes. 4.30 . So if thou perish , Hos. 13.9 . 't is of thy self , and 'T is of grace any is said understand ; Tho' the Spirit do work in the intellectual , Yet God not bound to make it effectual ; Be humble , Luke 9.23 . man , lie low , deny thy own will , If dost expect to come to salvation's Hill , Abhor thy self , Rom. 9.16 . free grace and love adore , By Christ alone hast God's favour any more , To exalt man's free will doth God's free grace , Col. 3.11 . Christ love , and righteousness much deface , And doth slight also the Spirit of grace ; John 8.36 . Therefore , Rom. 11.33 , 36. far be it from me , I 'll pray still , And depend on Christ , Mat. 17.5 . 't is the Father's will , To him be glory , Psal. 115.1 . and to his glorious Name , But to us belongeth confusion and shame . Dan. 9.8 .
Sect. 2. SOme say , Object . it seems , free will by reflect , And general Redemption you reject ; Yea , Sol. which I shall make more clear By what follows , Heb. 12.28 . if read with holy fear , And first in my way falls by reflection This great point , and many Objection In answering , I hope your desire to fulfil , Then proceed more distinctly against free will .
The Objection . That God hath received a Ransom for all , Object . And if all be not design'd , but fall Short of glory's way in their station , 1 Tim. 2.6 . God is unjust to take for their salvation A Ransom , to free them from desolation , And yet appoint them unto damnation . I answer , Sol. God hath receiv'd a price indeed Of worth , enough for all , but oh take heed , It was not intended for all , nor for all paid , By God the Donor , nor , observe what 's said , John 17.24 . By Christ the sufferer , so that in property Of speech Christ did not for all men die ; Nor God hath not , I also do debate , Psal. 50.16 . Receiv'd a Ransom for any Reprobate ; Take heed then , at free grace don't grutch , For Christ paid not a Ransom for any such ; John 17.9 . Christ doth not for the world pray , Rom. 8.33 . Much less doth Christ for the world pay ; God receiv'd no Ransom by reflect , Eph. 1.4 , 5 , 6. For any such , but for his own Elect. Christ redeemeth men of all Nations , Rev. 5.9 . And of all conditions in their generations , But not all particular persons in their stations . John 17.19 , 20. and 2 , 4. For God the Father did not chuse all , Neither did Christ die for great and small , and 15.15 . As to redeem all were of Adam's fall ; For the work of Christ in Redemption , Doth not exceed the work of God's intention ; and 12.49 , 50 Christ's work in Redemption by Reflection , Doth not exceed God's work in Election , See in Scripture , I speak this the rather , Because Christ worketh from the Father ; 1 Pet. 1.2 . Also the Spirit doth not work Sanctification In all , Tit. 2.14 . therefore Christ in way of salvation Did not redeem all in their generation ; For the work of the Spirit in Renovation , Is not short of God's work in Electation , John 14 , 26. and 15.16 . Nor of Christ's in Redemption , so done , Because works from the Father and Son , Taking possession of those God did Elect , And Christ purchase also with respect , To those only whom redeem'd by reflect , Joh. 16.7 , 13 , 14 , 15. Their sanctification the Spirit doth effect . The cause of man's Redemption was love John 3.16 . In God and Christ , Rom. 9.13 . only mercy did move Christ to die , which doth not extend to all , John 13.1 . Neither intended for great and small Of the world , Christ did not rise again For all , neither die for all , 't is plain In Scripture , and 17.9 . Christ doth not for all pray , Neither did Christ die for all , Scriptures say , Nor redeem all from sin and Satan's way , Acts 26.18 . 'T is a plain truth in the world to this day , The Death , 1 Tim. 2.5 . Resurrection , and Mediation Of Christ are inseparable in their station , His Sufferings and Offices are one compleat In Christ , as Redeemer , I would repeat His Intercession , Heb. 7.25 . only for his , a mercy great , Then this general Redemption doth cheat Most of the world , in false hopes Satan's feat For Christ doth not inwardly all instruct As a Prophet , Mat. 13.13 . nor rule by a spiritual product In all hearts as a King , which doth imply , For all as a Priest Christ did not die ; Rev. 15.3 . The Offices of Christ are of equal extent , To this the Scriptures do full consent , Rom. 8.31 , 32. They for whom Christ died , Gal. 5.22 . Scripture saith , To them is given the Spirit and Faith , 2 Thes. 3.2 , 3. Love , Hope , with every spiritual saving grace , But this all men have not in their Race , Which is evident in most mens lives , 1 John 5.19 . base In conversation , the Gospel they disgrace ; Christ died to destroy works of the Devil , 1 John 3.8 . And to redeem his from sin and evil ; Tit. 2.14 . Had Christ laid down for all his life A Ransom , Isa. 45.21 . then God's Justice would not strife For further satisfaction , if once compleat Satisfied , a second punishment so great , Could not without injustice be inflicted , Rev. 15.3 . This in the Scripture is clear predicted .
Sect. 3. THat the freedom all have by Redemption Heb. 9.12 . From temporal and eternal , without exemption , Punishments at present and to come , I dilate All the good to heart , soul body , or state That any enjoy , is by Redemption clear Of Christ , Psal. 36.6 . who saveth all , as doth appear In Scripture , both men and beasts , and Especially them that believe , 1 Tim. 4.10 . understand . Here 's God's general presence with all , seeing . From God all live , move , have their being , Fills Heaven and Earth , as God omnipresent , As the Infinite God a Being hath lent To all creatures , as the works of his hands , Act 17.27 , 28 Is with them that keep not his commands , Nor live not in his fear in all Lands . Christ in a general sense was the Lamb slain Before the foundation of the world , Rev. 13 8. maintain The world in being , and all to this day , Otherwise Justice would soon us slay ; Yea Adam had been destroyed for his sin Immediately , had not Christ stood in To appease God's Justice , which did cry , Adam hath sinned , he shall surely die : Gen. 2.17 . God's general grace upholds the whole Creation ; But 't is special grace that leads to salvation , Joh. 20.28 . By a special and particular application , My Lord and God of my salvation , Gal. 2.20 . Who loved me , and died for me ; Here lies man's happiness , you may see ; Psal. 144.15 . Cast off general Redemption as Extortion , Happiness is in having God for my portion Lam. 3.24 . By faith in Christ , in a particular application , Being freely given to Christ in our station In Election , by the Father's free donation , John 17.9 . Which is effected in us by Sanctification Of the Spirit , in working our Renovation , 1 Pet. 1.2 . Little of this work appears in conversation 1 Cor. 6.9 , 10. In a general way in our English Nation , 1 Thes. 5.3 . But live in false hope , and presumptuous security Content themselves , Christ did for sinners die ; What tho' there 's a God , what 's that to me , If that from Sin and Satan I am not free ? If God is not my God , by faith applied , What tho' Jesus Christ for sinners died ? What the better if by Christ I am deny'd ? Mat. 7.23 . What comfort can be to us when tryed , To hear and talk how Christ hath died , If not according to Gospel faith applied ? What 's Redemption to any natural man Till converted ? Mat. 18.3 . no more than to an Indian ; Only in this , by Redemption have at least Their lives and beings preserv'd , Psal. 36.6 . so have beasts . God makes his Rain on the Just to fall , And Unjust , Mat. 5.45 . in an external way good to all ; As I said before , man may in his station Enjoy all external things , yet not salvation ; 'T is the Elect only that in salvation share , Rom. 8.33 . Then of general Redemption take care ; Don't think Christ for all hath died still , 1 Pet. 2.7 , 8. And so may have salvation by free will ; Tho' many in general Redemption hurl , Yet Christ prayeth not for the world ; And is 't a likely thing Christ should die For the world , John 17.9 . and in prayer pass them by ? Should Christ spend his blood to death , For whom he will not spend his breath ? Will Christ such love the world afford , For whom he will not give his Word ? Christ prays not for the world , Scriptures descry , And would Christ then for the world die ? Consider what 's said before , Jud. 4 , 5. as you pass by , And according to Gospel faith it apply : The Elect shall obtain a full Redemption From Sin , and Hell , without exemption , They , and only they , the cause this , The Lord knoweth all who are his ; 2 Tim. 2.19 . This the foundation that standeth sure , God will make his Elect in heart pure , Will give grace to fit them for his glory , By grace saves us , Ephes. 2.8 . not like free will story , By grace makes us run his Commands ; None shall pluck the Elect from his hands , John 10.29 . Once in Christ , on whom Believers depend , Christ loveth them still unto the end ; and 13.1 . They are safe in Christ by Election , And not like those men , who by reflection Say , a man may be now a Child of God In the morning , yet in his life so odd , Before night may be by sin so evil , That he may be a Child of the Devil . Reader , consider , understand and see What men make of God's Eternal Decree , How erroneous men are , and refutable , Mal. 3.6 . In making the Eternal God mutable , Heb. 13.8 . Which doth imply , and also give a lift To man's free will , and not as Gods gift To give grace and glory at his pleasure , Psa. 84.11 . But as man acts , at his will and leisure , Eph. 1.5 . Which is repugnant to Scripture clear , Which by Grace I shall hereafter make appear . To conclude this head , with errors to deface God's general , and also his special grace , 2 Tim. 2.7 . Are not inconsistent in their proper place ; Yet 't is special grace leads to eternal life , Altho' some about it are still at strife , How Pelagians , Arminians , do all flie To this , the special grace of God deny , Rom. 11.5 , 7. And that Christ did for all men die , 1 Thes. 5.9 . With equal extent , which Scriptures deny , Which before is said , if rightly them apply , 2 Tim. 2.10 . Yet those men were of great parts , yet Misled , their understandings wrong set , Which I shall make more full appear , 1 Cor. 12.31 . As my Lines shall bring up the rear .
Sect. 4. Object . SOme hold that God in 's Eternal Decree , Hath not absolute appointed some to misery , But that God electeth , with some frequent , All , upon condition that they repent And believe , which in effect implies still , They may repent and believe if they will ; So consequently God rejecteth ; in 's station , No man absolute from his salvation , But that God suspendeth his determination , Expecting man's repentance in his station . Sol. I answer , according to Scripture demonstration , Prov. 16.4 . That there is a particular and special reprobation ; Rom. 9.22 . Therefore can't be an universal electation , Jud. 4. That you may not in your generation Be misled , Rom. 11.7 . or drawn in your station To believe that God in 's eternal dispensation Hath chosen all men unto salvation , Rev. 13.8 . On condition , leaving it wholly still To themselves , to their own free will , Either to ratifie it , Jer. 10.23 . or infringe it , see What men make of God's Eternal Decree ; 2 Cor. 3.5 . If men believe not , then God's Decree's annoy'd , If persevere not , then Election is void , Otherways , if men believe , and still pursue Holiness to the end , then they affirm it true ; Election remains in full power and virtue , That this Opinion may not take with you , I 'll say something against it , 1 Cor. 10.15 . I hope true : Consider what I lay before you new , And that you may understand by reflections , I shall endeavour to answer some Objections , In which I shall follow Scripture directions , According to free grace unto me given , Gal. 1.11 . I will lay Truth plain , as my name 's Stephen , Good works not the cause of Electation , Tit. 3.5 . Tho' sin 's the cause of reprobation ; Damnation is the fruit of sin's production , But not why God ordains men to destruction ; 2 Pet. 2.1 , 3. God in all his determinations is free , Mat. 11.26 . Neither Election nor Rejection in degree Are of works , God's Decree , tho' by some torn , Passeth on Children are not yet born , Rom. 9 , 10. Having done neither any evil , or good , God is free in Election , or Rejection understood Rightly , 't is plain in Jacob and his Brother , Chuse the one , and did refuse the other ; Why God passeth some men by preterition , I can't define the cause on no condition , But only in God , Eph. 1.4 , 5. of some to make choice , And others to reject , must be free grace noise , God hath free mercy on whom he will , And whom he pleaseth he hardeneth still , Rom. 9.18 . As God hath Elected some unto Salvation , So God hath appointed others to Damnation . God all things for himself made hath , Yea , the wicked for the day of wrath ; Prov. 16.4 . As God ordains vessels of mercy , 't is no story , So there are vessels of wrath by preparatory To destruction , on which Justice hath glory . Rom. 9.22 . This is very clear in the Scripture stated , verse 13. Jacob have I loved , but Esau have I hated : What other reason for this can be But his own pleasure , and Eternal decree ? Mal. 1.3 . Gods absolute power over man is intended Clear , and free grace to the Elect commended . Object . But some may say unto me herein , Don't you make God the Author of sin ? Sol. No , for reprobation goes before sinment , Jud. 4. Not as a Cause , but as an Antecedent . 2 Pet. 2.8 . God by the decree of reprobation , Don't infuse sin into man in 's station , Eph. 2.5 . Nor compel man to do any sin or evil , Jam. 1.13 , 14. Sin is of 's own concupiscence and the Devil ; Yet God doth set sin's determination , Not to confer on man a confirmation In grace , to make man stand in 's station , Deut. 29.4 . But permits man of his own accord To commit sin , Psal. 81.12 . as saith the Word In Scripture , 't is very plainly so , Ephes. 4.19 . Limits man how far in sin shall go : 2 Kin. 19.28 . Reprobation being an act of Gods power , Hath no other cause but God to this hour ; Rom. 9.21 . But sin 's the meritorious cause of damnation , Hos. 13.9 . As Justice executed in mans condemnation . Man is not condemned , understand herein , Because man cannot chuse but sin ; Ezek. 18.31 , 32. In regard of Gods decree of reprobation , Jer. 9.14 . But sins in regard of 's own inclination ; Tho' unregenerate men do nothing see , But what God hath appointed in 's decree , Acts 4.27 , 28. Yet understand man sinneth , because still Doth all in obedience to his own will ; Mat. 23.37 , 38. And not in obedience to Gods command , Whom God hath not ordain'd , understand To save , 1 Pet. 2.8 . they from sin never depart , But follow the imagination of their own Heart Till the measure of their sin is full , 2 Cor. 4.3 , 4. Mat. 23.32 , 33. Then Justice on them all gives a pull .
Sect. 5. Some may bring forth this production Hard , Object . God should ordain men to destruction . Shall not the great Creator be free . Sol. To dispose his Creatures according to 's decrees . Mat. 20.15 , 16. Shall not the Soveraign of the world alone , According to his pleasure dispose of his own ? If man have any thing of 's own in Season , To dispose it at pleasure is but reason . Hath not the Potter power over his Clay ? Rom. 9.21 . Shall not the great God have his way , Who made both the Potter and the Clay . Say some God will have all to be sav'd , Object . Therefore Electeth all , 1 Tim. 2.4 . tho' with sin deprav'd . God will have all to be saved , Sol. the intent God wills , and commands men to repent , And believe the Gospel , so may be sav'd ; Man is to do his duty as is crav'd : God will have all men sav'd , Rom. 10.12 . good news To Elected sinners , whether Gentiles or Jews , Yet we see grace in : Life most refuse . If God would have all men to be sav'd , All sorts , all Nations , is the question crav'd . How is it they are not sav'd , that still They live in sin , Eph. 4.18 , 19. and their Lust fulfil ? Yet who can , Rom. 9.19 . or hath refisted his will ? God would , and yet not sav'd by reflect , Implies in Gods will or power , is a defect : If men had power according to their will , None in the world but would it fulfil ; To affirm God wills all mens Salvation , Mat. 22.14 . Without exception in their Generation ; And the reason is always imply'd still , Why God doth not save them , or fulfil The work of grace , is obstinacy of man's will By which they reject the work of grace , Psal. 50.21 . So hinder God , or his work deface ; 1 Cor. 10.22 . This is to make God for man too weak , Which is Blasphemy for any to speak . Object . Say some again in their Generation , If God Elect not all men to Salvation , Eph. 3.3 . He 's partial , since all were in sins station , Alike in their natural State or Creation . Sol. This is not matter of debt , in this case , Or matter of Justice , but matter of grace . 2 Tim. 1.9 . Suppose God chuse a few , must he fall To be bound to save , or chuse all ? Rom. 3.24 . Tho' God do freely chuse , and save many , John 3.16 . Yet not bound to chuse , or save any . If a King , as before , of Malefactors save one Of many , must he therefore , hereupon Save all , no , no reason it should be done . Object . But if God a few only chuse and cherish , And leave the greatest number to perish In Hell , for Eternal flames to be fuel ; 1 Joh. 5.19 . If God be not partial , yet seems cruel . Sol. I answer Gods bounds of mercy are spacious ; Eph. 2.4 . God is infinite , and unutterably gracious . To chuse any man or woman , and herein Observe , out of the corrupted Mass of sin . Ezek. 16.6 . When polluted in our Blood , God should say Live , and from the world , come away , And leave the rest in their sin to stay ; In that forlorn undone condition , by sin Man brought himself , in this cause , herein God no way bound , as before you see , To redeem any man , or any one to free : So then this conclusion I draw must , God is righteous , not cruel he is , but just . Isa. 45.20 , 21 , Justice doth but condemn in its station , As man is in sin so passeth condemnation : Rev. 15.3 . God is gracious that any enjoy Salvation , And but righteous , if all in their Generation Had been appointed unto utter desolation . There 's cause in man , Rom. 3.23 . Justice should pass ye , But there 's no cause at all of mercy . When God rejecteth men , his determination Is to condemn them for sin to desolation ; But when God Electeth any in their station , He determines not to bring to Salvation ; For their obedience in their Generation , Tit. 3.5 . But for his free , Eph. 1.4 . eternal dispensation ; There 's somewhat moveth God to damnation , Isa. 48.9 , 11. But nothing without God moveth to Salvation . If any be appointed unto consolation , If all be not appointed unto damnation ; Gods mercy upon his Justice hath the hand , Rom. 3.23 . For all have transgressed Gods command , Ephes. 2.5 . 'T is by free grace any is sav'd , understand .
Sect. 6. This universal and conditional Election , Doth in some respect set man by reflection Above God , and overthrows Gods end And aim , Rom. 9.23 . in all 's counsel , and decrees intend The glory of 's free grace in his dispensation . This God design'd when Elected any to Salvation . This is plain in the holy Gospel story , To make known the riches of 's own glory , On those whom God prepares for his auditory By free grace , Gol. 1.12 . makes meet for Heavens glory . How shall God attain this in 's dispensation ? Not by chusing all men unto Salvation , If they will themselves in their Generation . How is the glory of his free grace magnify'd , If sufficient power in the Creature did reside , If grace to one more than to another be deny'd , If God doth alike for all by free will imply'd ; Electeth all alike , to glory and salvation ; If God prepareth Heaven no more by implication , Mat. 25.34 . For one man than another in his station , Doth not the Spirit work our renovation . The will of God , John 14.2 . by this opinion you see Is order'd and dispos'd by mans will free . God Electeth all on condition in their station , But Gods final and absolute determination Is suspended , by mans will in operation , As if man could of himself attain salvation . Man at liberty to make it good at leisure , Or to make it void at his pleasure ; If he will be sav'd , he may in 's Generation , If not , then man must have damnation . Acts 13.48 . If God have ordain'd him unto salvation , All is as men act in their station ; What is this , but to make God by reflect , An underling unto man in some respect ? For to make the will of God , I say still , Subservient unto that of mans will , Which is a most blasphemous derogation To God , for by this opinion , by reflection , God doth not do so much , in Election , Isa. 43.13 . And glory , as man doth , in his Station , Phil. 2.13 . God chooseth man , on condition to Salvation , If he do thus and thus in his generation , As if heaven depended on his Conversation , But man strikes the stroke , here still , Makes salvation sure , by his own will , So that man elects , himself , in 's generation , Much more than God doth for salvation , Consider , my Friends , this point , observe , see , Ephes. 1.11 . What greater derogation to God can be , Than is given to mans will in such a degree , Christ said to his disciples , in Scripture see , John 15.16 . You have not chosen me , but I you free ; Not they Christ by their deserts I say still , Nor by the good use of their free will , If all chosen be , on condition to salvation , If they will accept it in their Generation , Or act for it , which doth imply still , Rom. 11.7 . That they may have it if they will : Damn'd Reprobates in Hell by this leaven , Have as much reason as a Saint in Heaven , To be thankful unto God , he may say , But not I am sure in a Scripture way ; God did as much for me , a foolish Elf As him , Gal. 2.16 . but did not so much for my self . Consider on the other side , mind it well , May not a Saint in Heaven say and tell , God hath done so much for those in Hell , As ever he hath done for me by reflection , For they and I had all one Election ; Yea , God assisted them as much as me , Which implies there 's nothing in Gods decree , Eph. 2.9 , 10. For he is to all alike , which implies still , They have not us'd their own free will , As well as I have done , 't is so crav'd , The only cause are damn'd , and I sav'd ; Therefore I will thank my own free will And not God , Isa. 65.5 . at least I have imply'd still No greater cause to thank God than Those in Hell , of all the damned men , If any difference be , between them and me , 'T is not God made it , 1 Cor. 4.7 . nor yet his decree , But my self , see how free will doth strike ; For God did for them and me alike ; Tho' they not sav'd with me , the reason Did not for our selves a like in season ; Rom. 11.6 . Therefore , they are all , every way I cry , As much oblig'd to thank God as I. Consider this Reader , and understand , see Here 's free will , Psal. 115.1 . exalted in a high degree ; But from such a conceit Lord , Dan. 9.8 , 9. deliver me , And let me admire thy gracious love still free .
Sect. 7. If any man be sav'd by free will story , Rom. 8.29 , 30. He may thank himself , in 's self glory , And not in God , how do men deface Gods glory , or the glory of 's free grace ; By exalting mans corrupted will so base , God hath predestinated us in our race Eph. 1.5 , 6. By Christ , to the praise of his free grace ; How so ? not by man's own inclination still , But according to the pleasure of God's will , To shew God works freely in our salvation , Without any impulsion , or any provocation , Ezek. 16.6 . From External causes in his dispensation , In saving us freely in his salvation ; We must be sav'd according to God's will And pleasure , not according to our own , still God must have the first and great stroke 1 Cor. 10.22 . In this mercy , let 's not the Lord provoke , Or despise the riches of his free grace still , By advancing corrupted man's free will ; 2 Thes. 1.10 . Let us all rather God's free grace admire , Not free will in us , or any natral desire ; Why God hath chosen me , and neglecting Others , oh ! this should be heart-affecting , That God should take me into his Decree , Luke 1.6 . Whence is it ? what did God see in me More than in others whom God passeth by ? Psal. 8.4 . Why God did chuse me , is free grace , I cry , What 's man that God should mindful be Of such a brute ? a beast by nature is he : Admire the goodness of the Lord of Lords , That such free grace unto man affords , Man that 's corrupted Clay , yea worse by sin , Isa. 43.15 . Oh! then admire the goodness of our King ; We were all alike to God by reflection , In the act of his free , eternal Election , 1 Cor. 6.11 . Lay together in the same corrupted mass Of sin , how came it then so to pass , That God should pitch on me ? for alas ! Ezek. 16.6 . I was in my blood , in the same gore Of sin , admired be free grace for evermore , When God came to chuse a little number , 1 John 5.19 . In comparison of those he left to slumber In sin and corruption ; oh ! what a mercy That God should pitch on thee and me , Which if free grace had not so run , We had been lost , Ezek. 16.5 , 6. and for ever undone ; Had God ordain'd all to salvation compleat , His mercy had been out of measure great , But that God ordains any to salvation , When on the contrary , in men's generation He hath ordain'd millions unto desolation , Mat. 7.13 . Whose state by nature was no way worse Than ours , and strength in a natural course Was as great as ours in their generation , Ephes. 2 3. Yet to exempt them from eternal salvation , Whose care great as ours for reconciliation , In any natural way , or natural creation , Till God was pleas'd in mercy to prevent Us , Col. 1.12 , 13. should not this our thanks augment To God , and raise our hearts in admiration Of God's free grace , in chusing us to salvation ? Blessed be God's grace , who hath chosen us , Who deserv'd as others his eternal Curse ; Gal. 3.13 . Were no better for 's choice than other , But by nature were all as Brother ; Eph. 2 , 1 , 2 , 3. Yet us , when many others are rejected , Free grace and love hath us respected ; 'T is clear , for of two grinding at the Mill , One taken , Mat. 24.40 , 41. the other left , implies grace still , And not in the acting of their own will ; God's will and pleasure is the only reason Why two men equally miserable in season , Are made to differ the one from the other ; For by nature were both as Brother , Therefore not the foresight of our will , Or natural inclination in us , Rom. 8.7 . I say still , In receiving or rejecting grace propos'd , Altho' free grace be by some still oppos'd , Zech. 12.10 . Yet free grace , free grace , for ever I cry , And blessed be God for his rich mercy ; Ephes. 2.4 . Nothing made a difference , 1 Cor. 4.7 . but , say I , Free grace , 2 Thes. 1.10 . which Saints will admire to eternity .
SECT. VIII . Some say , if God in his eternal Decree , Object . Hath appointed some unto eternal Misery ; Mal 3.14 . 'T is in vain for such to hear and pray , And to use the means of Salvation's way ; Were as good do nothing in their Station , If they be Reprobated , ordain'd to Damnation . There is no Man knows his Reprobation , Sol. Tho' sev'ral marks of it in his Conversation : 'T is God's secret , and to us 't is very obscure ; Let 's follow the Scripture , a rule more sure . Secret things belong to God , Deut. 29.29 . let 's not flatter Our selves , let 's do duty , and pass this matter ; And know this , whatever any pretend , God appoints the means , as well as the end . For as God hath appointed Men to Glory ; Eph. 1.4 . Consider it well , don't think 't is a story : So , God hath appointed them to Sanctification ; And to the use of all in their Generation : 2 Thes 2.13 , 14. Holy means to attain the end , Salvation , And accordingly live in their Conversation . And for ought I know , one reason may be , Why God from Man conceals his Decree Of Reprobation , for the Lord is independant ; Therefore , Man should be still Attendant On the use of means , Isa. 40.29 , 30 , 31. as a Creature-dependant On God ; for though Man be weak in 's station ; Yet from God , Man hath a Power by derivation , In and by use of the means , 't is plain ; Mal. 3.14 . Therefore , don't say , to use means 't is in vain . Faith comes by hearing , Scripture's record , Rom. 10.17 . There 's a power in Man to hear the Word ; To wait on God , must his duty afford , Must wait God's call , as Scriptures record . The impotent Man waited many years At Bethesda , no doubt with many fears ; Joh. 5.2 , 3. Because of 's imbecility could not step in To the Pool for a Cure , consider this thing . Had he had a power according to his will , He would have cur'd himself , verse 7. would fulfil His own desire ; by this you may plain see His Will unable to attain this degree , Till Christ came , verse 8. and made him free , Had not power of himself so to be ; Yet wait on Ordinances , but rest on none For Salvation , but on Christ alone . Some soon enjoy by faith this Treasure , Others God's pleas'd to hold with longer leisure , What shall I say to this , 't is his pleasure ? Let 's do our duty in faith , not measure God's Dispensations , Mat. 20 , 3 , 6. he is God of power , Calls some the third , some the eleventh hour ; Then don't conclude thy Reprobation bold , Don't exclude thy self out of Christ's fold . Joh. 10.16 . To inquire into God's eternal Decree Is not thy duty , 't is no work for thee ; Therefore to the means thy self apply , Depend on Christ in use of means , try , He may have mercy , 2 King 7.3 , 4. if not , can but die ; Take the Lepers resolution , to Christ fly , Mind what 's said before , as you pass by , For elected Sinners salvation Christ did die . The work of Salvation is by God , see By the inchoation , or beginning of the decree , In Christ , as the means of God's dispensation , And by the Spirit , 1 Pet. 1.2 , 3 , 4. in way of consummation ; The means is made effectual to Salvation : The Spirit doth work faith , and doth apply The means in all elect , tho' not immediately . In all the Spirit works grace without dispute ; Eph. 3.7 . Then obedience , holiness , is the first fruit Of faith , Gal. 5.22 . and way to Heaven , 't is plain In Scripture , then do thy duty , I say again . God hath required thee the means to use , As reveal'd in Scripture , don't it refuse . Remember what I say , Joh. 14.26 . don't it forget , At Christ's Command , Luk. 5.4 . to the 7 verse . let down the net ; Perhaps the Lord hath appointed thee To life and glory in his eternal Decree , Which is obscure , and hidden from we . To make thy Election sure , 2 Pet. 1.10 . is more plain In Scripture , then do thy duty once again , Tho' thou know'st not the issue or event , Leave that to God , and the means frequent : Use Ordinances , and practise them in Power , God may save thee in the trying hour ; Yet in using them , don't such thoughts cherish , Luk. 17.10 . As to merit by duties , that 's a Papist's flourish ; Yet , without the means , you will perish . Having this Seal , God knows who are his . Don't venture thy immortal Soul amiss , Mark. 8.36 , 37. Upon such hazard and uncertainty as this . Who knows , God may receive thee into bliss And glory , then will accomplish his Decree , May'st live to his praise unto all Eternity . Joh. 17.24 . Thus I have distinguish'd according to desire , Between free grace and free will ; admire Free grace , live to glory by faith and prayer . 1 Cor. 10.15 . Consider what 's said , and thy self recruit With Paul , those errors of free-will to confute . Who art thou that against God dost dispute . For a conclusion , Consider these Scriptures deem'd , Rom. 9.20 . Admire free grace , let free-will be less esteem'd . Mat. 11.25 , 26.

Psal. 115.1 . Jer. 10.23 . Dan. 9.8 . Joh. 15.5 . Rom. 9.16 , 18. 1 Cor. 4.7 . 2 Cor. 3.5 . Eph. 2.8 . Eph. 1.4 . to the 7 verse . 1 Pet. 2.9 .

Now unto the King eternal , immortal , invisible , the only wise God , be Honour and Glory for ever , and ever , Amen . 1 Tim. 1.17 . FINIS .