The parents primer and the mothers lookingglasse, or, Counsel for parents in the education of children for their temporal, spiritual, and eternal happinesse : in a dialogue between a minister and a father : to which is added a second dialogue of the Decalogue : and to that a third dialogue concerning the Sabbath-day / by J. Waite ...

THE PARENTS PRIMER AND THE MOTHERS LOOKINGGLASSE .

OR , Counsel for Parents in the Education of CHILDREN : for their Temporal , Spiritual , and Eternal HAPPINESSE .

In a DIALOGUE between A MINISTER and a FATHER .

To which is added A Second Dialogue of the DECALOGUE .

And to that A Third DIALOGUE concerning The SABBATH-DAY .

By J WAITE Minister of Gods Word , LONDON .

Train up a Child in the way he should go : and when he is old he will not depart from it . Prov. 22.6 . The Father to the Children SHALL Make known thy Truth . Isa. 38.19 . Bring them up in the Nurture and Admonition of the LORD . Eph. 6.4 .

London , Printed by J. A. for the Author , and are to be sold by N. Ponder at the Peacock in the Poultrey , and R. Janeway in Queens-head-Alley in Pater-noster-row , 1681.

To the Unskilfull Reader .

WHether I speak with Tongue or Pen : I respect Them most who want my Help . If you do so , and can own [ Unskilfull ] for a Fit Title : they say I am the Person , for whose sake this Epistle is written . And for your sake , Let us desire the Expert Reader , to dispense with your Passage through this Porch . In which I desire You will remain my Scholar ( one hour ) and learn these Three Lessons .

First . To know the Points used in Print : 1 Lesson . which are these Seven .

(1) A Comma . It 's a Point at end of a Short Part of a Sentence , without Perfect Sense . And it 's a note of some little Pause , Stop , or Breathing in Reading . It 's marked Thus , (2) A Semicolon . It 's a Pause a little longer than a Comma . It 's marked Thus ; (3) A Colon. It 's a longer Pause than the former : and it s a part of a Sentence that makes Sense without the Full Sentence yet so as the rest is expected to compleat it . It 's marked Thus : (4) A Period . It 's a full perfect Point , put at end of a compleat Sentence . It 's marked Thus. Observe the Sense contained in a Sentence , or you Read Confusion . (5) A note of Exclamation , or Admiration . It 's put at end of an Expression uttered by way of Out-cry , or Wonder . It 's marked Thus ! As [ O how lofty are their eyes ! Pro. 30.13 . (6) A note of Interrogation . It 's put at end of a Question . It 's marked Thus ? As [ Why should we die in thy presence ? Gen. 47.15 . (7) Parenthesis . It 's a Clause included , or shut in with two Semicircles , or half Moons : though it give some Strength to a Sentence , yet if left out the Sense remains Sound . It 's marked Thus ( ) As [ Let me ( I pray thee ) drink a little water of thy pitcher . Gen. 24.17 .

Second . To know where the Emphasis layeth in a Sentence . Emphasis is an Expression of the Mind , by a Word expressed with some Earnestness , or Force . This Word I begin with a Capital , or Great Letter . Here note words which must alway begin with Capitals .

(1) The first Word of every Sentence . Pro. 9.10 . As [ The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom ] So if the Sentence begin with a Single Letter . Pro. 1.5 . Joh. 10.11 . As [ A wise man will hear [ I am the good Shepherd [ O that they were wise , Deu. 32.29 . &c. (2) The first Word of the Saying of an Other , Related : though it do not begin a Sentence . As , Joh. 7.46 . The officers answered [ Never man spake like this man ] And many of them said [ He hath a Devil , Chap. 10.20 , 21. and is mad ] Others said [ These are not the words of him that hath a Devil . (3) The first Word , or Letter of every Verse , or Line in Poety . As , A man without learning , Cato doth say : May be compared to an Image of Clay . (4) Proper Names . (1) Of God , as Jehovah ] Of Christ , as , Jesus ] Of an Angel , as , Gabriel ] Of Men and Women , as , Adam , Abel , Daniel , Dorcas ] Of Countries , as , Asia , England , Spain ] Of Cities , as , London , Jerusalem ] Of Towns , as , Barnet , Bethany ] Of Places , or Hills , as , Eden , Sinai ] Of Rivers , as , Thames , Jordan , Cedron ] Of Months , as , Jan , Feb , Abib ] Of the four Winds , as , East , W , N , S. ] Proper Names I put in Italian Different Letters : and so to put other Names is Improper . (5) Appellatives or Common Names : which are common to all of that Kind . (1) Of People , as , Jew , Hebrew , Gentile , Heathen , Christian , Protestant , Papist , Pagan , Indian ] Names of Arts , as , Printer , Painter , Mercer , Grocer ] Of Dignity , as , Emperour , King , Q , Prince , Pope , Duke ] Of Offices , as , Ambassador , Priest , Prophet , Pastour , Apostle , Elder , Deacon , Judge , General , Captain ] Of Dayes , as , Sabbath ] Of Spirits , as , Angel , Cherub , Seraphim , Devil , Satan ] Note [ god ] if a false god , must begin with a small letter . But the true [ God ] with a Capital . And , Father , Son , Spirit : Lord , Christ , Ghost ] when they Signifie the True God , or the Persons in the Holy Trinity ] To which I adde Names of Books ( so many as are not Proper Names of Men and Women ) as , Gen , Exod ] And of Tongues , as , Hebrew , Greek , Latine , English ] Most of these Names , Proper , and Appellative , stand Thin in this Book . In all these Words which always begin with Capitals , the Emphasis seldom layeth : when it doth , I put that Word all in Capitals that you know it at ease . When an other Word is all in Capitals , it signifies the Greater Emphasis .

Now for Emphatical Words . The Emphasis is tied to no Word whatever . It is sometime in a Substantial Word . Sometime in two or three such words together . Sometime in a small Word , as [ be , do , so , no , to , at , of , off , on , in , out ] as , [ I will No more have mercy on the house of Israel . ] In other place [ no ] hath no Emphasis , as , Pro. 3.30 . [ Strive not with a man if he have done thee [ no ] harm ] In other place it 's in the Substantial word Mercy , Mat. 15 22 as , [ Have Mercy on me O Lord ] As when Sea-men are Sinking with this cry , Mercy ! Mercy ! There is the Emphasis . In other place ( by reason of the Excellent Emphaticalness of the Expression ) you may put it in This or That Word as you Will , as , [ I Will surely have mercy ] I will Surely have mercy ] I will surely have Mercy upon him , saith the Lord ] Sometime the Emphasis , Jer. 31.20 . Is , and is Not in the Same Word , Pro. 31.2 . in the Same Sentence : as , [ What my Son ! and what the son of my Womb ! ] To misplace it makes it give an unpleasant senseless sound : as , what the Son of my womb ] It 's in Vain to put Force upon a Wrong Word : it 's like a Stroke at a Wooden Bell.

These Emphatical Words observed , will help you to understand the Sense . And if besides the Words which constantly begin with Capitals , there Be ever a Capital that is not Emphatical : yet it 's Substantial , and serves to shew the Sense , as all Emphatical Words do . Emphatical Words begun with Capitals , avoids that Hodge Podge they make , who put Half their Words in Different Letters .

Third . To understand Abbreviation , 3 Lesson . or Shortning of Words : which for Brevity Sake is used in Books . Some of them are the First Letters of Latine Words ; which many Authors use , but Explain not for their English Reader . The most Necessary ( of all which ) to know are These .

&c et caetera ] and the rest [ or ] and so forth .

Sc scilicet ] to wit .

Viz Videlicet ] to wit [ or ] that is to say .

i e id est ] that is .

e g exempli gratiâ ] as for example .

q d quasi dicat ] as if he should say .

And the same q d serves for ] as if She should say ] as if You should say ] as if They should say ] as if I , or We should say . ]

It is easily understood in Reading .

N B Nota Bene ] Mark this well .

O T Old Testament . N T New Testament . Q Question . A Answer . Ob Objection . Sol Solution . D Doctrine . R Reason . U Use .

For you to Learn these Lessons Three :

As easie is as A B C.

Which you may Learn with little Leasure :

Then Read with Knowledge , Profit , Pleasure .

As for Hebrew , Greek , and Latine Words which I lay in your Way : they will be no Stumbling-block , except you will Make them so . For you have it in English : which you may Read on without Stumble , or Stop . And I desire you may So Read , as to Reap much Good Fruit , by the Labour of

Your Loving Friend , J W. London , May 26. 1681.

The General Contents of the First Dialogue . A Salutation , and Preambulation , to the [ Education ] of Children . Parents equally concern'd in Education . [ Education ] reduced to two General Heads : viz. [ Instruction ] and [ Correction ] First . Instruction ] The word opened . 1 Gen. Head . Instruction by [ Doctrine ] and [ Example . ] ( 1 ) By [ Doctrine ] The word Doctrine opened . What D to instruct Children in . Twenty Documents for Instruction by D. The Scripture to be Searched for more . Any thing in the Bible Vseful : even the words of wicked men , Devils , Proper Names . ( 2 ) Instruction by [ Example ] Word opened . Example by Works , and Words . Circumstances of Education , Seven . Direction if Children Will , or Will not hear . The Parent Corrected for Carnal Language . The Second General Head , viz. [ Correction . 2 Gen. Head . ] Correction twofold , viz. with [ Word ] and [ Rod. ] ( 1 ) Correction with [ Word ] . Six Directions for [ Word ] Correction . ( 2 ) Correction with the [ Rod ] Scriptural Account of [ Rod ] fourfold . The Parallel of Rod , and Staff . Seven Directions , for [ Rod ] Correction . Fourteen Ob against [ Rod ] Correction , Answ. Two ways great wasters of Time ; and many more wicked ways Witnessed against . Advice of a Civil , Secular Concern , delivered in 12. Documents . The danger of Riches discoursed . Counsel concerning Childrens Children . PRAYER for a Blessing on [ Education ] Prayer [ For ] and [ With ] Children . ( 1 ) Prayer [ For ] them in Private . Ten great effects of Prayer consider'd , to encourage to Prayer . Time , and Times in a day for Private Prayers ( 2 ) Prayer [ With ] Children in Family . Ten directions for Family Duty . Objections against Family Duty , Answ. Parents to take their Children into their Closets . and Pray with them there . Parents to teach Children to Pray . Objections against that , Answer'd . Parents to procure the Prayers of Praying Persons for their Children . Ten Corollaries to quicken Parents to their Whole Duty contained in this Conference .

THE PARENTS PRIMER AND THE MOTHERS LOOKING-GLASSE In a Dialogue between A MINISTER and a FATHER . Minister .

GOd Save you Sir , with your good Wife . Whither are you walking this way this morning ?

Father .

To See Mr. C. What News Sir ?

Min.

News ! I said in my heart what I should have . When will this Common Question be out of use ? Since the Popes Plot appeared , the Protestants have spent more Time in Talking of it , than All the Papists in England are worth . And you ( living so near us ) are like our London Christians : and they Too like the Athenians ; who spent their time in Nothing else , but to Tell or to Hear some New Thing . And if there be no New ; we talk over the Old without End . And every Day is alike . If this was the way to do our work , viz , Self-Examination , Humiliation , and Reformation , for the Sins that provoke God to suffer this Bloody Beast thus to Push at us : I would not Oppose it . But it 's the way to Hinder Every good work : in Heart , and Life . And to render us Ridiculous to the DEVIL and the POPE , to see what a Talking Trade we drive , and how we spend our Dayes , while Death lies at our Doors .

Fath.

I confess we spend Too much Time that way .

Min.

Confession without Reformation , Preambulation . is to Poor Purpose . Are these two little Lads which follow you , Your Children ?

Fath.

Yes they are both mine .

Min.

Can you tell me any Good News of Them ?

Fath.

They are Pretty good Boys when they Please .

Min.

They had need be made Better : to which end I pray what Good Discourse have you had with them by the way ? for you are now come a Mile from Home .

Fath.

OH HO: I have told them the name of yonder Church Steeple . And of That , I point at with my Cane . And of yonder High Brick House , with abundance of Chimneys .

Min.

And is this the Best Discourse you have had ?

Fath.

The Best : yes truly . What Discourse should a man have with Children ?

Min.

What Discourse ! Godly Discourse .

Fath.

What with Children ?

Min.

Yes with Children to Choose .

Fath.

What Reason is there for That ?

Min.

There is Great Reason for it , which I shall not Now Render : but one thing I shall Render which is Greater than Reason .

Fath.

What is that I pray ?

Min.

God's Solemn Command ] And these words which I command thee this day shall be in thine Heart . Deu. 6.6 , 7. And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy Children , and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine House , and when thou walkest by the Way , and when thou liest Down , and when thou risest Vp .

Fath.

I believe Few Fathers , or Mothers do so .

Min.

In that , you believe Truth : but it 's Sad Truth to believe : yet Too True , I may well say . For of othis I have made Much Observation , for Many Years , in Many Countries , in Professing Families without number . After all which Observation , I may say with Solomon : There is an evil which I have seen under the Sun , Ecl. 6.1 . and it is Common among men ] Such men have Many a Day been to me an Amazing Consideration . viz , That ever Persons professing Faith in gods Word of Truth which testifieth the Misery of ALL Mankind ( that their Children are in a Sad Condition is one part of their Profession ) who have been Sensible of their Own Misery , and Instruments to bring Poor Children into a Miserable World , in a Miserable Condition : and yet so Careless to bring them Out of this Condition . And so little concerned for a Safe passage Out of this World : over Hell , to the desired Haven : Ezek. 19.14 . this is a Lamentation , and Shall be for a Lamentation .

Fath.

But some Count that this Command was given to the Jews only .

Min.

Read and Compare these two Texts , * * Deut. 4.10 . Ch. 6.7 . and you will see it is the Moral Law or Ten Commandments , that Parents are Commanded to teach their Children . To say [ This Law belongs to the Jews only ] is plainly to say [ We Gentiles are Lawlesse ] And may worship Idols , Our being under this Law Asserted . take Gods name in Vain , prophane the SABBATH , dishonour Parents , Kill , Steal , commit Adultery , and what the DEVIL and We will .

Fath.

But we Gentiles are under the Gospel , the grace of which teacheth us to Deny ungodlyness .

Min.

There is none to Deny if there be no Law . Proved by being Opposed . But this Position of Mine [ We are Under the Law ] needs No more Proof then this Contradiction of Yours [ We are Under the Gospel . ] N B. The preaching of the Gospel , is the Proffer of a Pardon . This plainly proves Persons under this Proffer , to be Condemned . They are Condemned by the Law . They are Under it , or could not be Condemned by it . It 's for Sin ; which is the Transgression of the Law . But where No Law is , there is No Transgression : And so no need of Remission . N B. Under the Gospel a Person is either (1) In a Condemned State under the Proffer of a Pardon : or (2) In a Justified State under the Priviledge of a Pardon . In both States he is under the Law . In the former , its Clear he is under the Curse of the Law . In the latter he is freed from the Curse , and Condemning power of the Law : but he is not freed from the Commanding power of the Law . It 's to be his rule Of life , Temporal , and Spiritual , that thereby God may be Glorified : though not his rule For life Eternal , that thereby he may be Justified . Gal. 3.10 . He that obeys the Law for Justification is under Condemnation . And he that believes the Gospel for Justification , without regard to the Law in his Conversation ; Jam. 2.20 . is in the Same Condition . The former expects Salvation , by Dead Works , without Faith . The latter expects Salvation , by a Dead Faith , without Works : Both in a Sad Dead Condition . And what ever be the State , yet Dead or Deeply Sleepy is the Soul of such a Parent , who neglects his Children so contrary to this GREAT Command * * DEU. VI. VI , VII .

Fath.

I cannot deny your Doctrine . And seeing you are disposed to enter into So Serious a Discourse about my Children : I desire your Advice , and Counsel in their Education . And I will omit the Businesse I was going about , for this is ( I see ) of Greater Concern .

Min.

With a very good Will : I like your motion Well . But it will take up Much Time . And therefore let us Seat our Selves in yonder Shaddow , from the heat of the Sun : as Abraham did , Gen. 18.1 , 4. when the Lord appeared to him . And if we spend our Time Well : God will be with Us also .

Fath.

We are come to the Place : I see here are convenient Seats : I am glad I met with you so Near it .

Min.

Very convenient . Come Sir , Sit You Down with your Wife as one . And with your leave , let your Children Sit Down with us , and hear our Discourse .

Fath.

Let it be so . We are all Seated : I pray proceed .

Min.

Seeing Providence hath placed us together upon this Account : I am glad your Wife is present , because so much concerned . For by 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Parents ] in theh plural , not two Fathers , but a Father and a Mother is intended . Joh. 9.2 . e g. Master , who did sin , this man or his Parents ? And the Hebrew word 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Achild ] comes of the Root and Verb 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 which signifies both To Beget and to Bare . e g 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Who hath begotten me these * * Isa. 49.21 . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 I Bare him with sorrow † † 1 Ch. 4.9 . Mat. 19.5 . Parents Parallels . ] they twain shall be one Flesh ] Parents are Parallels . Equally concerned . When one is Dead , the Care , and Industry of the Living is to be Double . But if one be Dead while Alive , the Care of the Living is to be Trible . For the Dead Parent will not Help , but Hinder the Living .

Fath.

We desire to hear our dutie .

Min.

The Education of Children , Education two Heads . is a Greater Work , than the Greatest part of Parents in the Whole World are aware of . And that I may be as usefull to you in One Conference as I can : I shall reduce my Advice , and Discourse , to these two General Heads , viz [ Instruction ] and [ Correction . ]

Fath.

What is Instruction ? Let me hear the word handled .

Min.

Instructiō , is a Latine word , Instruction opened . of Instruo , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , To set in order . ] Instruction is a setting in Order , for Children are Out of order , both in Heart , and Life . e g. The Soul in Every Faculty , is out of order . The Imagination , Deviseth evil . The Memory , Retains evil . The Understanding , is Dark : and Misjudgeth evil , and good . The Will , is Opposite to the Will of God . The Affections , Love evil , and Hate good . And this disordered Soul puts the Body out of order in Every Part. e g. The Eye , Beholds vanity . The Ear , Hears it . The Tongue , Talks it . The Hands , Work it . The Feet , Follow it . God set All in good order by Creation : but the Devil put All out of order by Temptation : and all into Confusion and Desolation . And the simple verb Struo , from whence comes [ Instruction ] signifies , To build . The Lord God formed Man . * * Gen. 2.7 . ] The rib which the Lord God had taken from Man 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 he builded into a Woman . † † Ver. 22. This Stately Structure , which God set up by Creation : Satan hath pulled down by Temptation . Now , No Man can build upon That Foundation , which God at first set ADAM upon . There is no coming At it for the Flaming Sword . But if you SO Instruct your Children , as to bring them Unto , and build them Upon Jesus Christ , that Sure Foundation : they shall be Safer than Ever was Adam in Innocencie , in Paradise . For the Gates of Hell shall Never prevail against them .

Fath.

That is a Very desirable condition Indeed ! How shall I So Instruct my Children ?

Min.

By [ Word ] and [ Deed ] or by [ Doctrine ] and [ Example . Instruction by D and Exam. ]

Fath.

How by Word or Doctrine .

Min.

The Word Doctrine , (1) By Doct. is derived of the Latine Word Doctrina , Learning ] of Doceo , To teach ] as 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . And the Hebrew 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Doctrine ] comes of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 To receive ] for you must Receive it from GOD : as you are desired to do , Receive I pray thee the Law from his Mouth † † Job 22.22 . . And your Children are to receive it from You. Hear , O my Son , and Receive my sayings * * Pro. 4.10 .

Fath.

What Doctrine am I to Instruct them in ?

Min.

The Doctrine of the Holy Scriptures . Tit. 2.10 . 2 Jo. 9. Pro. 4.2 . Tit. 2.1 . Called , The Doctrine of GOD ] The Doctrine of CHRIST ] Good Doctrine ] Sound Doctrine ]

Fath.

Draw me out some Documents , and lay some Lessons before me , to learn my Children .

Min.

Take these twenty ] First . Doc 1. Of God Teach them to know God Himself ] His Eternity , in his Essence , and Being : from everlasting to everlasting thou art GOD † † Psal. 90.2 . . ] His Infinitenesse in his Attributes , viz , Wisdom , Knowledge , Power , Mercy , Justice . ] That He is the Only Wise GOD : Omniscient , Omnipresent , Omnipotent . ] That God doth at Once , and Alway : Know all , See all , Hear all . That he is in every Place ; and can doe whatever he Please : in Heaven , and Earth , and Hell .

Second . Doc 2. Of Creation . Teach them to know God to be the Wonderfull Creatour of the Whole Creation : viz , Heaven , Earth , Sea , Hell . And of every creature in them . And all for his Pleasure † † Rev. 4.11 . . And that God upholds the Whole Creation , by his Uncreated Power . And provides for Men , Beasts , Birds , Fishes , Fouls , Flies . And learn your Children , to remember GOD , as a Creatour , not as a Father , in a State of Nature . And themselves as Creatures ; not Children of God , before they be Born of God .

Third . Doc 3. Of Mans First State . Teach them to know the Holy , and Happy Condition , God made Man in at First . And the Covenant God made with man . And how Man was to continue in that Condition , by vertue of his Obedidience to that Covenant . And how all Man-kind were to Stand , and Fall : In , and With ADAM .

Fourth . Doc 4. Mans Fall . Teach them to know Mans Fall . (1) INTO Original Sin : ] by Satans Subtilty . And his Fall , (2) BY Original Sin : ] From a Paradise , a Palace , a Pure State : into a Dungeon , and Deluge of Wo. The Principal Effects of which Fall , are [ Filth , Guilt . ] The Filth of Sin hath spoiled Man of the Image of GOD : Impressed the Image of the DEVILL upon him . And deprived Man of his Interest in GOD. He was With God in Paradise : but being Drove out , he is Without God in the World * * Eph. 2.12 . . It hath Debased him . He was made but little lower than the ANGELS : Sin hath debased Man , to a Hog , a Dog , a DEVIL . Sad effects of Sin . Sin hath so Darkned mans Soul : that GOD only ( who is light ) can Illuminate it . It hath so Deadned , and Killed him : that none but the Living GOD can Quicken him . It hath so Defiled him : that neither Fire , nor Water can Cleanse him . The Flood of Water that washt away a World of Sinners : washt not away One Sin . The Fire that shall burn up a World of Sinners , and burn them down to Hell , and burn them there for Ever : shall Never burn away One Sin . (2) [ Guilt ] Adam's Guilt is imputed to All. All guilty of Eternal Death by One mans Sin . Simile As when the Head of a mans body plots Treason , the whole Body Hangs for it : So of Adam the Head , and his posterity , the Body : if Pardon prevent not .

Fift . Teach them to know [ Actual Sin ] viz. To know what IS Sin . Doc 5. Actual Sin . And to know what Sin IS . (1) The tranSgression of the Law , that IS Sin † † 1 Jo. 3.4 . . Transgression is a going beyond the Bounds of the Law . Or doing any thing Contrary to the Command : in Deed , Word , or Thought . This is Sin . Here note the danger of Smal sins . Little sins lead to Greater . Smal Sin dangerous . The thief Little thought his Thest , would by degrees bring him to the Gallows : when he began with a Pin , a Point , and a Peny . As little do men think such Small Sins will bring them to Hell . Not only the Measure of sin , but the Nature of sin is Damnable : if the Measure be Never so Small : the Soul that sinneth shall Dic † † Ezek. 18.4 . . If so , what doe Thousands , and Millions amount to ! A Fly is a Smal Creature ; yet Swarms destroyed Egypt * * Ex. 8.24 . . A drop of Water is a Smal Matter : but drops enough Drowned the World . A threed is a Smal Thing ; yet enough twisted together , will Bind the Strongest Giant , or Hang the Heaviest man on Earth . Quid levius penna ? What is Lighter than a Feather ? ] yet enough of these Packed up together , will break the Porters Back .

2. What Sin IS . ] To the Law , and to the Testimony for Titles for it . Six Titles of Sin . Sin hath Six Titles to make men Flee from it . (1) A Mire † † 2 Pet. 2.22 . ] that makes a Soul like a Swine : so wallowing . (2) A Fire ] that consumes to Destruction * * Job 31.12 . : of Goods , Good Name , Body , Soul and all . (3) A Sepulchre ] full of dead mens Bones , and All uncleanness † † Mat. 23.27 . . (4) The Dogs Vomit * * 2 Pet. 2.22 . ] i e , stinking Carrion , that the Stomach of a Dog cannot endure . (5) The Poyson of Asps † † Ro. 3.13 . ] Tell your Children : an Oath , a Lie , a Wicked Word in the Mouth : is worse than a Toad under the Tongue . And Sin in the Heart is worse than Poyson in the Heart : for that can but kill the Body . (6) The Plague of the Heart * * 1 K. 8.38 . ] a Dreadful Disease ! If the Plague be in London a Year , we think it a Long Time for such a Dismal Disease to Last , and Wast . But this Plague of SIn hath been in the World , between five and six Thousand years . A strange disease ! Few are ever Sick of it , yet SO many Die of it ; that all the World cannot Sum up one Weekly Bill of Mortality . Sin is Worse than Sorrow . Some sorrow Kills Sin , but Sin , ( if not killed ) Kills the Soul . Sin is worse than the DEVIL . Sin can destroy a Soul without SATAN : but Satan cannot destroy a Soul without Sin . Sin is worse than Hell . Hell is an Affliction , and Contradiction to the Will of Man : but Sin is a Contradiction to the Will of GOD. And a Burden which God sigheth under , saying ; AH I will ease me 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 I will be comforted † † Isa. 1.24 . : ] implying , a Grieving burden . [ And a bitter burden : Ephraim provoked him to anger most bitterly 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 with bitterness * * Ho. 12.14 . ] A pressing burden : Behold I am Pressed under you † † Am. 2.13 . . A breaking burden : I am broken under your whorish heart * * Ezek. 6.9 . . Which argues NO weakness in GOD : but the Weight and Strength of Sin : I know your Mighty Sins † † Am. 5.12 . . ] Thus saith the Lord , the Lord of Hosts , the Mighty one of Israel , AH I will ease me * * Isa. 1 24. . N B. The Mighty One complains of the pressure of Sin ! Well may God say to Man , Can Thy heart indure , or can thy hands be strong in the day that I shall deal with thee ? † † Ezek. 22.14 . i e , for Sin . ] Seeing Sin is SO weighty , Use and the Soul SO filthy ; Let none be Proud of a beautiful Body . Let not your Children be Proud if Pretty . Take heed you doe not make their Hearts proud , with proud Habits ( as some Professing Parents Prophanely doe ) lest God send the [ Smal Pocks ] or the [ Great Plague ] to pull Pride down to the Dust . Beauty that is but Skin Deep , will Soon be Blasted . Fair Skins , and Foul Souls , are Frequently found together . Many Hell black Souls dwell in Shining Shels : but if no New Heart , Soul and Body will shortly be in Hell : and Both Black in Everlasting Burnings .

Mans Sins are Debts , of which God keeps account ; Sinner canst Tell to what thy Debts amount ? Thy Debts thou art encreasing Every hour : Into his Vials , God doth also pour . Pain for thy Pleasure , though thou wilt not Stop : As certain as thy Death , there 's Drop for Drop . God's Cup is almost Full , as well as Thine : When both are Full , OH then the Dreadfull Time !

Sixt. Doc. 6. Teach them to KInow , and cause them to be Well acquainted with the [ Ten Commandments : ] Of the Ten Commands . for they are the Pure , Precious Precepts , of the Holy Lord God . And with the rest , Remember Well the Sabbath Day . I hope I need not forbid You to convert the Commands into Prayers for your Children : according to the Course of Carnal , Ignorant People . Learn them to know they are Gods Laws , to Rule mans Life . And that they are to be Obey'd , in Deed , Word , and Thought . And whatever is contrary to any one of these Commands : that is Sin against GOD. Learn them to know the Necessity of these Laws being written in their Hearts , according to the Promise . And let your Tongue be the Pen in gods Hand , to write them There , if the Lord Please .

Seventh . Doc 7. Of Mans Obedience . Teach them to know the Utter IOnsufficiency , of Mans Obedience to the Law , to Save . ] And that the most Excellent Moralist , hath as Absolute a Necessity , of Jesus Christs Righteousness , to Justifie him ( and that without it he will as Certainly be Damned ) as the most Prophane Person that ever pissed against a wall , in the Whole World .

Eight . Doc 8. Of the Gospel . Teach them to know the [ Gospel . ] The knowledge of the Law , is in Order to the Acceptation of the Gospel . By the Law is the knowledge of Sin † † Ro. 3.20 . : without which , Who will regard the Gospel ? What cares a Person for a Pardon , who knows not that he is Condemned ? In this Lesson , eye three things . ¶ (1) [ The Declaration of the Gospel . ] viz , That GOD hath chosen an innumerable company of Mankind . And hath given them to CHRIST . And sent him into the World , to Redeem them from the Curse of the Law , by fulfilling the Law . N B. He was GOD , and Man , in One Person . Man , to Suffer , and Die : God cannot Die . GOD to Satisfie , in bearing Wrath Infinitely : which Man could not do . This GOD-man , did Personate Man : and in Mans Stead , for Man ; did Actively , and Passively , obey the Law Perfectly . And so hath procured Eternal Life . And this is Freely offered , to all Dead Sinners , by the Declaration of the Gospel . And Christs desire that Sinnersshould obtain this Eternal Life : is expressed with Longing , Sighing , Sweating , Weeping , and Dying . ¶ (2) The Condition of the Gospel ] on our part : by which Eternal life is made Ours : by which we have Right to the Tree of Life . [ That is FAITH . ] Men are Dead . God hath made a Law , viz , He that Believes shall Live . ] He that believes Not , shall Never Live , but Die for Ever . ] A Condemned Sinner is to be Justified by Faith , Without the deeds of the Law † † Ro. 3.27 , 28. : by the Law of a Just GOD , who thus Justifies the Vngodly * * Ch. 5.4 . . By which Law of Faith , without Works : boasting in Works is excluded . Isa. 55. [ Come buy Wine ] Christ is bought by Believing . [ Buy without Money ] i e , Part with Something worth Nothing : i e , Sin , Self Righteousness , Self and all . [ Sin ] as to the Practice , and Pleasure of it . [ j Righteousness ] as to any Confidence in it . [ Self ] by giving up Body , and Soul to Christ † † 1 Cor. 6.20 . . ¶ (3) The Duties of the Gospel ] viz , Good Works , as fruits of Faith . Faith which alone Justifies before GOD : accompanied with such a Holy Conversation , as will Justifie before Men : That is the Conversation which becomes the Gospel . BUT , let Justification , by Faith , without Works , be kept Clear . e g. Suppose , a Man Famous for Wickednesse ( who never did any thing else but serve Satan by Whole Sale ) should come under a Sermon . And be convinced of his Sin , Sick of Sin , Sick for a Saviour , and Believe on Jesus Christ : H E is Justified . Christs Perfect Righteousness is Imputed . And if he should drop down Dead where he Stands : before he have any time to Pray , or do any good Work : He is Certainly Saved .

Now Sir , A Caution for the Mother . though your Wife does not Object , but learn in Silence * * 1 Tim. 2.11 . ( as best becomes her ) with an intent to ask her Husband at home † † 1 cor. 14.35 . : Yet least she say in her Heart [ What is it the part of a Mother to play the Preacher ? ] I will give her an Instance of one who taught her Son , both Law , and Gospel . The words of King Lemuel * * Pro. 31.1 . Lemuels Lesson Bathsheba's Catechism ] Lemuel she calls him , because God owned him . I will be his Father , and he shall be my Son † † 2 Sa. 7.14 . ] Lemuel God with him [ The Prophesie that his Mother taught him . ] The word [ Prophesie ] in the Hebrew is 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 A burden ] of the Root 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 To bear ] the same word 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 is Englished , A burden * * Na 1.1 . . ] This shews what a heavy charge lyes upon Mothers : which she Thus discharges . [ What , my SON ! and what , the Son of my WOMB ! and what the Son of my VOWS ! † † Ver. 2. Give not thy strength to Women * * Ver. 3. ] Here she teaches him Law , viz , Thou shalt not commit Adultery . [ It is not for KINGS O Lemuel , it is not for KINGS to drink Wine † † Ver. 4. : Lest they drink and forget the LAW * * Ver. 5. . ] See how she Schools him . N B. The King of Israel was to keep the Law † † Deu. 17.19 . . King Solomon who was in twenty things a Type of Christ : was in his Obedience to the Law a Type of Christs Fulfilling the Law , to free us from the Curse : from whence comes the Comfort of the Gospel . [ Give strong drink to him that is ready to Perish * * ver. 6. ] Parallel , The great Trumpet shall be blown , and they which are ready to Perish shall come † † Isa. 27.13 . . [ And Wine to those that be of heavy Heart ] Parallel , Come buy wine without Mony * * Isa. 55. . [ Open thy mouth for the Dumb † † Ver. 8. ] This Phrase respects Solomon as a Type of Christ in his Intercession : who is to Pray for Them that cannot Pray for Themselves . Who are swallowed up in Silence , and Shame , under a Sight and Sence of Sin ; At , or After convertion . Or can say Nothing , For : but All , Against themselves . Christ Will speak a Good Word for such : which Shall be answer'd with Good and Comfortable Words † † Zech. 1.13 . . Thus as Bathsheba teaches her Son Solomon , to officiate as a Type of Christ : she teaches him both Law and Gospel . ] And see how Solomon approves of the Mothers Ministry , as well as the Fathers . My Son , hear the Instruction of thy Father , and forsake not the Law of thy Mother * * Pro. 1.8 . ] My Son , keep thy Fathers Commandments , and forsake not the Low of thy Mother † † Ch. 6.20 . . ] The Law of GOD is called the Law of the Mother . And she commanding her Child according to that Law , Her Law is the Law of GOD. Of the neglect of which Duty , let the Mother take heed : lest there come a time , when torment makes her Tare the Hair off her Head .

Ninth . Doc 9. Of Faith . Teach them to know the Necessity of True Faith . ] Learn them to know it is the Gift of GOD. And the Work of GOD. And that God makes Preparation for Faith , by a threefold Conviction of Unbelief . (1) Of the utter Deficiency of Faith . (2) Of the absolute Necessity of Faith . (3) Of the utter Impossibility of Faith , in ones Own Power . Acquaint them with a threefold Effect of Faith , where it s wrought . (1) It makes the Heart Pure † † Act. 15.9 . . (2) The Conscience Peaceable * * Ro. 15.13 . . (3) It makes Christ Precious † † 1 Pet. 2.7 . . This Faith is an One thing necessary . For by a Fair Profession without Faith , a Soul may seem to be Not Far from the Kingdom of Heaven , and yet Never the near .

Civility gilds Fair , sets Off a Man :

Grace only makes a Golden Chris-ti-an .

Tenth . Doc 10. Of Repentance . Teach them the necessity of Speedy Repentance . ] That it s not a Work to be put Off , for a Year , a Month , or a Day . Let them know its the Gift of CHRIST † † Act. 5.31 . . And that a Sinner can No more Repent , himself , than he can Pardon himselfe . Putting off Repentance proves , that the Sinner thinks he can Repent at his Pleasure . Like him who put off Faith till Death . And being reproved for his Loose Life , replyed , It 's but believing in Christ at Last . ] But at Last when Dying , he lay ROARING : OH I have made a Plaister , but I cannot make it Stick . ] Shew your Children how the Devil Steals away a Sinners Dayes , by a Day at once . Should Satan suggest Thus , [ Come Sinner , serve me to the Death : Live and Die in my sweet service Without Repentance . ] At this a Sinner would Startle , q d , Satans Subtiltie . So I may go to Hell . ] No , but [ Come serve me a Day more . Next morning , Away without Prayer , to pleasure to Day , it s but a Day . ] This is easily granted . And so on to the End . And when the Last Day of life begins , [ Come go on , it s but a Day . ] By and by , Down drops the Soul into the Dungeon of Hell . And then it will be Cold Comfort to hear Satan say , [ Come be quiet , thou hast but an Eternitie to spend , in Repenting thy daily delay of Repentance in time . ] N B. Without True and Timely Repentance , For Sin , and From Sin : there is Nothing to be expected , but a Certain , Fearfull , Intolerable , and Eternal Damning for Sin .

Eleventh . Doc 11. Of Truth . Teach them the Excellency of Truth in Tongue ] i e , Truth in Word , that hath Truth in Heart , for its Root , and Truth in Deed , for its Fruit. Though this Truth be not the Original Cause of Salvation : yet such Shall be Saved . And God hath left you Winning Words to entice them to Truth in Tongue . Surely they are my People , Children that will not Lie , so he was their Saviour * * Isa. 63.8 . . The lip of Truth shall be established for Ever † † Pro. 12.19 . . The rest read at leasure * * Psal. 34.12 . N B. The good government of the Tongue , is a Great Task . And that you had need begin to Guide , 1 Pet. 3.10 . as soon as it begins to Go. 2 Jo. 4. For if long neglected , you may more easily weild a Wild Horse , or a Weighty Ship driven with Fierce Winds † † Ja. 3.2 . to 10. . Augustus gave a Schollar this Lesson , [ I said I would take heed to my wayes , that I sin not with my Tongue * * Ps. 39.1 . ] And bid him go and learn that Lesson and come again for another . His Scholar goes , A hard task . and comes again 19 years after , and Complains of his Lesson : viz , that it was So Hard , he had not well learned it Yet . ] There are Many Christians in Citie , and Country , of more than 19 years Standing : who have this Lesson still to learn .

Twelth . Doc 12. Of Early Piety . Teach them the Excellency of Early Piety . ] Of being Quickly Converted , and made good Betimes . The Lesse time between the First , and Second Birth , the Better . (1) Tell them Such are under that Sweet Promise , They that seek me early shall Find me † † Pro. 8.17 . . (2) Of Such , God hath a Sweet Remembrance , viz , I remember Thee , the kindnesse of thy Youth * * Jer. 2.2 . . (3) Such have not that Mountainous Temptation to clime , which Old Converts hardly Ever get Over , viz , [ You come too Late . ] (4) It s the way to be Eminent with God : and Prevalent in Prayer . eg . The Child Samuel Ministred unto the Lord * * 1 Sam. 3.1 . . ] MOSES and AARON and SAMUEL among them that call upon his name : they called upon the Lord , and he answered Them † † Psal. 99.6 . . ] Though MOSES and SAMVEL stood before me , yet my mind could not be toward this People * * Jer. 15.1 . ] q d , If any Persons in the World prevail with Me , They are the Men. And how Lamentable is the Losse of Such ! When all the Congregation saw that Aaron was Dead , they mourned for Aaron 30 dayes , even ALL the house of Israel † † Nu. 20.29 . . ] The Children of Israel wept for Moses 30 dayes * * Deu. 34.8 . . ] They Murmur against them while they Live : but Mourn for them when they are Dead . Samuel died and All Israel gathered together and lamented him † † 1 Sa. 25.1 . ] Jeremiah lamented for good young Josiah , and All the Singing Men , and Singing Women spake of Josiah in their Lamentations to this day * * 2 Chro. 35.25 . . ] The First ripe Fruits , were Precious to God † † Exo. 22.29 . . And they were so to man * * Micha. 7.1 . . The Devil in his Old Enmity , against Early Piety , hath Tipt the Tongues of some with this Taunt : [ A young Saint and an old Devil . ] Which Satanical Saying , and Pestilent Proverb , I shall not ask Satan leave to turn thus : [ A young Saint and an old ANGEL . ] Let Satan say his Worst , to be Good betimes is Best . Mistake me not , it 's Being good , and not Knowing good only , that I plead for . One may Know good , and Be evil . One may Know evil , and Be good . It s not ones Knowing , Good or Evil , that makes one Good , or Evil : but it s ones Loving of Good , or Evil , which proves one Good , or Evil. If a man would know what City he belongs to , Zion or Babilon : and whether he is going to Heaven or Hell : let him ask his love .

Thirteenth . Doc 13. Of Gods eye . Teach them to Know , that they are Alway under the Open Eye , and Open Ear of God . ] Tell them God can see as well in the Dark , as in the Light . When Dores and Windowes are shut : and Curtains drawn Close , at Midnight : as well as at Noon Day , on the House Top. Tell them God heareth what they say , if they speak Never so Softly . And knows what they Think , if they think Never so Secretly . And Tell them , whatever they Think , Speak , and Act on Earth : God writes in Heaven . What is Good , God looks upon with Love . What is Evil , God beholds with Hatred . Thou art of Purer Eyes than to behold Evil † † Hab. 2.13 . . God beholds NO Evil with an Eye of Approbation : but ALL Evil with an eye of Observation : in order to Damnation ; if speedy Repentance prevent it not .

How Dar'st thou Sin in Secret ? God doth See :

And , Witnesse , Jury , Judge alone will Be.

Fourteenth . Doc 14. The uncertainty of Life . Teach them to know the Brevity and Uncertainty of Life : ] for Age , and Youth , Old , and Insant . ] Tell them , in Golgotha , are Sculls : and in the Church Yard , are Graves , of All Sizes . Solomon tells of a time to be Born , and a time to Die , but he tells us of no time to Live * * Ecl. 3.2 . . Tell them , Death is Most Certain : and may be as Sudden , as Certain . One may be Alive , Young , Strong , Well , Sick , Dead , Damned , and all in a Day , or in an Hour . (1) God the Donour , and Preserver of Mans Life , may Suddenly end it . (2) The Devil the Envier of Mans Life , may Suddenly end it , as he did Job's Children † † Job 1.10 . . (3) The Wicked , Satans Workmen , may Suddenly end it : he riseth up , and No man is sure of his Life * * Job 24.22 . . (4) A mans own Relations may Suddenly end it ] : as Cain who killed his Own , Onely brother Abel † † Gen. 4.8 . . (5) A mans own Hand may Suddenly end his own Life . ] Ahithophels councel to Others , was as if a man had enquired at the Oracle of God * * 2 Sa: 16.23 . , but he could not councel Himself , to keep from the Gallows ! It 's dangerous provoking GOD to displeasure . God can make a man his Own Enemy , his Worst Enemy , his own Executioner here , and his own Tormentor in Hell Fire , for ever . N B. Seeing Life is SO Uncertain and Short ; Preparation for Death is a Solemn Concern . When men had Longer lives , and Stronger limbs , than Now men have : they seemed to be more concerned with Death , than Now men are . The First purchase we read of in the Bible , was a Burying Place , not a Building Place , viz , Abraham for Sarah * * Gen. 23.4 . . ] Lo I die , in the Grave which I have Digged for me , there thou shalt bury me : said , Jacob to Joseph † † Ch. 50.5 . . ] Kings and Councellors built Desolate places for Themselves * * Job 3.14 . . ] Joseph laid Jesus in his Own Tomb † † Mat. 27.60 . . ] Few ( in our dayes ) dig their Graves before they are dead : though the World it self be dying .

Fifteenth . Doc 15. Teach them to know the Difference between Temporal Life , and Eternal Life . The Excellency of One above the Other . ] e g. (1) Temporal Life is full of Corporal Labour * * Eccl. 1.8 . . Eternal Life hath none of this . There Remains a Rest † † Heb. 4.9 . : it Ever Remains , and Never Removes . (2) Temporal Life is full of Mental Misery , viz. Care , Trouble , Vexation , Sorrow of Mind . Man is Born to trouble * * Job 5.7 . . He is of Few dayes and Full of trouble † † Ch. 14.1 . . His dayes are Few and Evil * * Gen. 47.9 . . Eternal Life is Full of Joy without Sorrow . (3) Temporal Life is attended with the Misery of Penury , Hunger , Thirst . Hunger without Bread , Bread without Hunger , are both Miseries . Bread with Hunger is a Double Mercy , which Many have , and Few prize . Eternal Life is free from both these Miseries of Hunger , and Thirst . They shall hunger NO more , neither Thirst any more , &c † † Rev. 7.16 . . (4) Temporal Life is attended with many Diseases : Eternal Life hath None . All Diseases end at Death . A Saints Funeral , is the Funeral of All his Afflictions . (5) Temporal Life is sometimes such that a man is Weary of it , and wishes for Death : Eternal Life will Never weary one to All Eternity . (6) Temporal Life is but Temporal : if it be the life of Methuselah , it must Certainly end , it may Suddenly end ; but Eternal Life is Eternal . Not any thing in Heaven , or Hell , shall ever end it .

Sixteenth . Doc 16. Of Heaven . Teach them to know how Desireable , Heaven is . ] Tell them of its Titles , viz , The Kingdom of GOD ] The Kingdom of Heaven ] The Heaven of Heavens ] The Third Heaven ] A house Eternal in the Heavens ] That will never Decay , or want Repair , that the Inhabitant will never be Weary of , or turned Out of . ] Abrahams Rosom ] i e , Sweet imbraces . ] Eternal Glory ] Salvation with Eternal Glory ] An Eternal weight of Glory ] which will never weary to bear it , but bare up above all weariness for ever . ] A Crown of Life ] A Crown of Glory ] A City of pure Gold , it's Streets pure Gold , its Gates , Pearl * * Rev. 21.21 . . ] A City that hath NO need of Sun , Moon , or Candle † † Ver. 23. . For there shall be NO Night there * * Ch. 22.5 . .

Seventeenth . Doc. 17. Of Hell . Teach them to know how Dreadfull Hell is . ] Tell them of it's Titles , viz , Destruction ] A Furnace ] Outer Darkness ] Damnation ] Everlasting Punishment ] Vnquenchable Fire ] A Place of Torment ] Wrath to Come ] A Prison ] Everlasting Chains ] Everlasting Burnings ] The Vengeance of Eternal Fire ] The Second Death ] A Lake of Fire ] The Bottomless Pit . ] OH , How do Persons Play with Scripture Thunder ! The Word Printed , is like Fire Painted : which they can See , and Feel without Fear . But , could they Stand at the Gates of Hell , and Hear the Damned Howl , it would make their Hair stand an End , and Fill their Hearts with Horrour ! But what shall we say of an Eternal BEING in that place of Torment ! The Damnation of Hell is beyond All Definition : much harder to Define , than the Spanish Inquisition . Which a Painter despairing to do , Did not picture , One man with a Knife in his his Throat , a Second with a Sword in his Heart , a Third with his Arms Torn Off. But took a Table and Covered it all over with Blood , crying out BLOOD ! BLOOD ! So may a Minister cry concerning Hell : FIRE ! FIRE ! for a Definition of Damnation .

Eighteenth . Doc. 18. Of temporal Judgements . Teach them to know what Temporal Judgments God hath sent to Men , Women , and Children , for Sin against God . ] Tell them how God drowned the World with Water from Heaven * * Gen. 7. . And burned Sodom with Fire from Heaven † † Ch. 19. . And Drowned the Egyptians in the Red Sea . And clave the Ground asunder to Swallow up Korah , and his Company . And slew a hundred fourscore and five Thousand in One Night , by One Angel * * 2 K. 19.35 . . And slew of Israel Five Hundred Thousand chosen men in One day † † Ch. 13.17 . Chap. 36.16 . . And gave All Israel into the hand of the King of the Caldees ( that bitter and hasty Nation ) who slew their Young men with the Sword , had NO compassion on Young Man or Maiden , Old man , or him that Stooped for age * * Ch. 36.16 . . Because they mocked the messengers which God in Mercy had sent among them . Death came in at their Windows , for their Wicked Children . Bares tare them in Pieces . The Mother was dashed in Pieces upon her Children † † Ho. 10.14 . . ] The strength of Populous NO , was Infinite : Yet she was carried away into Captivity , her Young Children were dashed in Pieces at the top of all the streets . * * Na. 3.8 , 9 , 10. Tell them also of Judgments threatned , viz , I will Kill you with the Sword , your Wives shall be Widdows , and your Children fatherless . ] † † Exo. 22.24 . I will send wild beasts among you , which shall Rob you of your Children . * * Lev. 26.22 . Papists are coming to Rob our houses . of Children , and Parents both . Their Children shall be dashed to pieces before their Eyes . ] † † Isa. 13.16 . I will bereave them of Children . * * Jer. 15.7 . The Fathers shall eat the Sons , and the Sons shall eat the Fathers . ] † † Ezek. 5.10 . And I ( saith Christ ) will Kill her Children with Death . * * Rev. 2.23 .

Nineteenth . Doc 19. Of Eternal Judgment . Teach them to know the Eternal Judgment . ] Tell them , Jesus Christ the Judge shall come from Heaven , with his mighty Angels , in flaming Fire . With a Shout , with the voice of the Arch-Angel , with the Trump of GOD : to found and raise the Dead . That the Godly shall rise in Glory ; and all Christians Quick and Dead , be made like Christ . That the Wicked shall rise Roaring : amazed one at another ; their Faces , Flames . † † Isa. 13.8 . That all Men , Women , Children , from Adam , to the end of the World : must Stand before GOD. * * Rev. 20.12 . And give account of their Works , Words , Thoughts : all which God will bring into Judgment . And whet his glittering Sword ( which is now made Bright , and Wrapt up for the Slaughter ) † † Ezek. 21.15 . and fill it with the Blood of the Wicked . And heap Mischiefs upon them . And spend his Arrows upon them . * * Deu. 32.23 . And make them drunk with Blood . † † Ver. 42. And shoot his great Hail , which he hath reserved for the Battel of that Great Day of GOD Almighty . * * Job 38.23 . When the Sun , and Moon , and Stars shall be Drakened . † † Joel 3.15 . And the Heavens pass away with a Great Noise , and the Elements melt with Fervent Heat : the Earth and the Works therein burnt up : * * 2 Pet. 3.10 . With a fire kindled in Gods Anger which shall burn to the Lowest Hell . † † Deu. 32.22 . When God shall Roar like a Lion , and Rend the Caul of their Heart . * * Ho. 13.8 . And they Groan with the Groanings of a Deadly Wounded Man † † Ezek. 30.24 . . ] Alas ! Who shall live when GOD doth This ! * * Nu. 24.23 . Tell some of this Day , [ OH take You no care for Me : every Tub must Stand on its own Bottom . ] But how if it have no Bottom to stand on ? [ OH HO: we will do well enough . ] What will ye do in the day of Visitation ? † † Isa. 10.3 . It 's a Scaring question . [ If we cannot obtain mercy by Entreaty , nor victory by Fight , we will Flee for it . ] To whom will ye Flee for Help ? A fearful question . These are the men that must cry , Mountains fall on us , and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the Throne : Who will close this Day with [ Come ye Blessed ] and [ Go ye Cursed . ] Then shall the King say unto them on his Right Hand , Come ye Blessed of My Father , inherit the Kingdom prepared for You from the Foundation of the World . ] * * Mat. 25.34 . Then shall he say also unto them on the Left Hand , Depart from me ye Cursed , into Everlasting Fire prepared for the Devil and his Angels . ] † † Ver. 41. And these shall go away into Everlasting Punishment : but the Righteous into Life Eternal . * * Ver. 46.

Last . Doc. 20. Of Eterninity . Teach them to think upon Eternity . ] Tell them that after this Final Sentence is Passed , viz , [ Come ye Blessed ] and [ Go ye Cursed : ] the Godly must dwell in Heaven , and the Wicked must dwell in Hell for Ever and Ever . The Eternity of GOD , hath neither Beginning nor End . The Eternity of Man , hath a Beginning , but NO End . This EVER , is as near its End at its Beginning , as EVER it will be . When the Wicked have been Howling in Hell , as many Thousand Years as the Number of the Stars of Heaven : and the Drops and Sands of the Sea : they are then NO nearer to the End of their Torment , than when it First Began . ] Thus much for Instruction by Doctrine .

¶ But , Sir , you are not to Terminate in These Twenty Lessons . For I lay them not down to Limit you , but to Lead you into the Scriptures , to Search for Twenty times so many More . Every word of God in the Blessed Bible hath something in it for the Use of Man . The words of Wicked . Men , and DEVILS , which God hath pleased to Record for our Profit . To discover the Pride , Wickedness , Madness , Folly , Enmity of the Wicked , and the Devil their Father : against GOD their Creatour ; a few of which I leave you to consider at leasure . (1) Words of the Wicked . Gen. 4.9 . Ch. 11.4 . Exo. 1.10 . Ch. 5.2 . Ch. 14.25 . Ch. 15.9 . Job 21.14 . Ch. 22.17 . Psal. 14.1 . Ps. 83.4 . Ps. 94. 7. Ps. 137.7 . Isai. 10.13 , 14. Dan. 3.15 . Ch. 6.5 , 20. Mat. 12.24 . Ch. 27.40 , 42 , 43 , 63 , 64. Job . 10.20 . Act. 28.4 , 6. ] (2) Words of the Devil . Gen. 3.1 , 4 , 5. Job 1.7 , 9 , 10 , 11. Ch. 2.4 , 5. Mat. 4.3 , 6 , 9. Ch. 8.29 . Mar. 1.24 . Luk. 8.28 . Act. 19. 15. ] And the Proper Names of Persons ( which many think not worth the nameing ) are Profitable more wayes than one . (1) To shew that God fulfilled his Promise , of such a Numerous Seed , so incredible to Reason , when Abram and Sarai were both Dead . q d , See what a number of their names I have recorded in the Chronicles and other places , to testifie the Truth of my Promise . (2) The Signification of the Proper Names of Persons , and Places ; of both , take a few Instances .

¶ (1) Persons , Adam 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Earth , Red , Bloody ] of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 To be red . ] Male and Female created he them , and called their Name Adam . † † Gen. 5.2 . To tell Proud man , what a Material , and Mettal , man is made of . ] Noah 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Rest ] of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 To take rest . ] He called his name Noah , saying , this Same shall Comfort us . * * Gen. 5.29 . Noah was a Preacher of Righteousness : it Signifies what a Stay , such shall be to a Tossed Church . ] Abram 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 A High Father ] Abraham , A Father of a multitude . ] i e , A Publick President by his FAITH : for Jew and Gentile to follow for Justification . Believers are Honourable . They have a High Father Abram . And GOD is their Father who is Higher than the Highest . ] Isaac 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Laughter ] of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 To laugh . ] Sarah said , God hath made me Laugh , so that all that hear will Laught with me . † † Gen 21.6 . Isaac was the promised Son , but both Father and Mother must be Dead , before the Son is Born . N B. If God once Promise , if Never so great a Death fall in before the Performance ; Never fear it . * * Ver. 7. Who would have said to Abraham that Sarah should have given Children suck , for I ( q d , OLD Sarah ) have born him a Son in his OLD Age. ] Solomon 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Peaceable ] † † Mic. 5.5 . of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 To compleat Peace . ] A Type of Christ the Great peace-maker , and our Peace . ] * * Eph. 2.19 . Delilah 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Poverty , a consumer ] of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 To draw out . ] As Delilah to Samson , so Sin , Delilah , a beloved lust , will Impoverish , Consume , and Conquer , a Samson like Soul for Strength . ] Ishi 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 My husband ] of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 A husband , ] Thou shalt call me Ishi . ] Ho. 2.16 . To shew the Sweet Affection , and Near Relation of God , to a Christian truly betrothed to Christ . ] Amos 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 A burden ] of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 To load ] The land is not able to bear all his words . † † Am. 7.10 . Thus is a faithful Prophet to the Prophane . ] Zerubabel 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Repugnant to , or a dispersion of confusion ] of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 To scatter 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Confusion . ] He was to lay the foundation , and to finish . God hath had his Zerubabels , Magistrates , and Ministers called Saviours . Magistrates to save the Body , Ministers to save the Soul . These were but Instruments , and the best but a Type of Christ , THE Saviour : Alpha and Omega , of the Work of Redemption : Author , and Finisher , from the Foot , to the Head Stone , with Shouting , Grace grace to it . † † Zech. 4.7 .

¶ (2) Proper names of Places and Cities . ] Babel , Babilon 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Confusion , ] of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 To confound . ] Let us go down and there confound their language : * * Gen. 11.7 . So the Lord scattered them . Therefore is the name of it called Babel . † . They cry of Babilon , against Jerusalem , is , Rase , Rase it , even to the Foundation of it . But God will Confound all Babilons Cries , and Consultations . ] Rehoboth 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Room ] of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 To enlarge . ] Isaac called the well Rehoboth , for which the Philistins strove not , for Now ( saith he ) the Lord hath made Room for us . * * Gen. 26.22 . Considering how Contentious Philistins , and Heathens are , Christians should call Every quiet place , for Meeting , and Dwelling , Rehoboth ] Bethel 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 The house of God ] so Jacob called the Place where God appeared to him . † † Gen. 28.17 . So precious is Gods appearance , that it makes the place to Spangle : and that place must have a memorable Title . And precious is the Humble Person , To whom God appears . [ I dwell with him that is humble . ] * * Isa. 57.15 . He is Gods House ; in what place soever he be , its Bethel . ] Bochim 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Weeping ] of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 To weep . ] The people lift up their voice and wept . And they called the name of that place Bochim . † † Jud. 2.4 , 5. God will mark the place of Mourning and put the tears into his Bottle . ] Achor 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Trouble ] of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 To trouble . ] Achor is a name Joshua gave to a Valley where they met with much Trouble . * * Jos. 7.26 . I will allure her and bring her into the wilderness , and speak Comfortably 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 upon her Heart . † † Ho. 2.14 . N B. If God do bring into the Wilderness , that leads to the land of Canaan : he will bring Safe Out to the Desired Haven . And turn Sorrow into Joy , yea give Joy in Sorrow , and Life at the Point of Death , at the Dead Sea . For saith God , I will give her the Valley of Achor for a Door of Hope , and she shall sing THERE . ] * * Hos. 2.15 . Capernaum , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , A field of Repentance ] i e , where the Seed of it is Sown , and not Received . Upon which account Christ does utter that Dreadful Thunder : Thou Capernaum which art exalted to Heaven , shalt be brought down to Hell . ] † † Mat. 11.23 . Bethesda 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , The house of Mercy ] of effusion , i e , Pouring forth plentifully . ] It 's the name of a Pool at Jerusalem which cured Any Disease whatever . † † Job . 5.2 . A type of Christ , who hath for Every Disease an Infallible Remedy : and calls the Sick to come , and buy All without Mony . ¶ I will add no more of these Instances , left I Weary you . But again I desire you to Search the Scriptures : which to do , one had need out-live the Dayes of Methuselah . Tertullian hath this Expression . Adoro plentitudinem Scripturarum : I adore the fulnesse of the Scriptures . ] Let me say , There is a Mountain of Sense , in a Sentence of Scripture . Into which let not the Least refuse to Look : for the Lamb may Wade , though the Elephant Swim . Learn your Lambs to wade into the Scriptures , by a Daily course of Reading Chapters And by a Custom of asking you Scriptural Questions . When your Children shall ask in time to come , Heb 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 To morrow , What means these Stones ? Then ye shall Answer them : * * Jos. 4.6 . and with a Blessing God will Answer both .

¶ To all which Instruction by Doctrine , I adde this Exhortation . Take your Children with you to hear Sermons . Stick not at a little trouble : but , bring thy Sons in Arms , and thy Daughters upon Shoulders . † † Isa. 49.22 . Simile And what you hear preached , Improve for their Profit . As from a Garden , Orchard , Banquet , Parents bring home Flowers , Cherries , Biskets for their childrens Bodies : So do you from Sermons ( in Spirituals ) for your Childrens Souls . And as a Compassionate Parent will give a Part to a Child that stands By , having no Parent present to Pity it : So I pray do You ; to Any Child as you have Opportunity . But especially to Those under your Roof , Care , and Conduct : whose Parents are Absent , out of the World , or at a Distance . Give them even the Same Instruction with your Own . And let not Such a One be as a Sheep that NO Man takes up . * * Isa. 13.14 . Caution . And do not Deceive your self by thinking you are only Drawn to this Duty , or deed of Charity by my Desire : but See your self Solemnly Bound to it by Christs Command . As ye would that men should do to You , do you Even So to them . † † Mat. 7.12 Thou shalt love thy Neighbour as thy Self . * * Ch. 22.39 . Dread to be like the Dragon which saith , My River is My Own , I have made it for My Self . † † Ezek. 29.

Fath.

I Pray God I may practise this Advice ! and Learn my Children these Lessons , and do my Part to Others .

Min.

I Pray so too , or better you had Never heard them . He that knows his Masters Will and does it not , shall be beaten with many stripes . N B. My words which I commanded did they not take Hold of your Fathers . * * Zec. 1.6 . In Gods Command incumbent upon you for Education of Children , there is a Preceptive Part , and a Penal Part. If you take not Hold of the Preceptive Part to Do it : the Penal Part will take Hold of you , to Undo you .

Fath.

Gods Command is almost forgotten by Me. And I perceive , some Professing Parents carry it , as if they had Quite forgotten Gods Command .

Min.

How if God should quite forget Them , or Theirs ?

Fath.

They hope he will not do So.

Min.

Let them take heed of Vain hopes , And hear what God will speak in such case .

Jehovah .

Seeing thou hast forgotten the Law of thy God , I will also forget thy Children † † Ho. 4.6 . .

Min.

What think you by this ? Is it a light thing to forget the Law of God ? Shortly in some Peril or other the Child of such a Parent may as Certainly , and Suddenly Perish , as if God had Quite forgot to preserve it .

Jehovah . I will make it as the mourning of an Only Son , and the end thereof as a Bitter Day * * Am. 8.10 .

Fath.

The Lord have mercy on me , and mine ! Let me hear how I am to Instruct my Children by Example .

Min.

You shall . (2) (2) By Example . The Word [ Example ] is from Exemplum , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , A Pattern , a Copy , an Example ] for one to follow . Look that thou make them after their Pattern † † Exo. 25.40 . . Heb 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 A Pattern ] of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 To build ] Good Example , added to Good Doctrine , builds upon a Good Foundation . He shall write him a Copy * * Deu. 17.18 . . Heb 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 A Copy or Example ] of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 To repeat . ] Good Example must be Frequent . I have given you an Example † † Joh. 13.15 . , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , An Example ] of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , To shew ] q d. Let men See your Good Works * * Mat. 5.16 . Example by good Works . . As Good Doctrine must be Audible : So Good Example , must be Visible . Good Doctrine , and Good Example , must be Both linked together as Unseparable . If Doctrin be Good , and Example Bad : you Do and Undo , and do Nothing , except what is Worse than Nothing . As the foolish woman plucks down her House with her Hands † † Pro. 14.1 . , So will you with Bad Deeds , pull down what you set up with Good Words . The Moral of that Fable of the crooked Crab is to our purpose , viz , The Crab. The Old said to the Young , Go forward ] The Young said to the Old , Shew me the way then ] The Old went Backward , and Side long : The Young followed , saying , See Mother , I go Just as you do . ] By Reason of your Childrens Corruptions , they will Sooner follow your Bad Example , than your Good Doctrin . Let parents Doings , or Sayings be Bad , their posterity Will approve them , Heb , they will delight in their mouth * * Psal. 49.13 . . N B. The Snuffers to Clear , or Mend the Light in the Tabernacle , were of Pure Gold † † Exo. 37.23 . . So must your Life be , a Holy , Godly , Golden Life : if you will Mend the Life of others . With what Indignation does Christ speak to them that will mend Others : and will not mend Themselves ! THOV Hypocrite , first cast the beam out of thine Own Eye * * Mat. 7.5 . This following is a Fearful Reflection out of the Mouth of the Almighty . Thou which teachest Another , teachest thou not thy Self ? Thou that preachest a man should not Steal , doest THOV Steal † † Ro. 2.21 . ? Thou that sayest a man should not Commit Adultery , doest THOV Commit Adultery ? What will God say of such a man ! Why is not here some Black Brand put upon this Person ? No , [ This is that King Ahaz * * 2 Chr. 28.22 . A fearful favour . . ] Why not that Wicked King Ahaz ? NO , that is too great a Favour for him : then he goes among the Herd ( of swine ) and hath a great many Fellows . [ O Generation † † Jer. 2.31 . . ] Why not of Vipers ? for God bids the Heavens be astonished at their Sins . NO , that is too Little : and God seems to be at a Losse for a Title , or a Brand , Black enough for Such Sinners .

¶ ¶ By good words . Let Good Example be both in Works , and Words . ] Some , when they have given Good Doctrin by Words , give Bad Example by Words , viz , by Idle , Unprofitable Prattle . And by Back-biting , and Clamouring against Christians , in their Childrens hearing . When Parents Tongues are set on Fire of Hell , A pastime for Satan . then they make a Pleassant Ditty for the Devil , i e , To hear , and see them Sow the Seeds of Indignation , ( against Professors , and Religion at once ) into the Hearts of their Own Children . A wholesome Tongue is a tree of Life * * Pro. 15.4 . , but some Parents Tongues will be their Childrens DEATH .

Fath.

That is Very Sad indeed . But are there not some Considerable Circumstances , belonging to this Substantial Work of Education of Children ?

Min.

Yes , Very Considerable . The Circumstances of an Action are usually these seven , Thus Versified [ Quis ? quid ? quibus ? ubi , cur ? quomodo ? quando ? ] The Person , who . ] The Thing , what . ] The Means , by which . ] The Time , when . ] The Place , where . ] The Manner , how . ] The End , to which . ] As to this Action of Education of Children , Here is ,

First . The Person , Acting . ] viz , Circum . 1. The Parent , who hath Begot , or brought Forth : for a Saviour , or a Destroyer . Who is under God's Solemn Charge : of which he must give Account to GOD. And without whom , the Child had Never been Miserable : neither Here , nor in Hell .

Second . The Thing , Acted . ] viz , Circum . 2. The Education of the Child .

Third . The Means , Circum . 3. by Which ] the Child is Educated , viz , [ Instruction ] by [ doctrin ] and [ Example ] Passed : and by [ Correction ] to Come .

Fourth . The Time , When. Circum . 4. ] (1) The Time of Life . Begin in the Morning of this Day , i e , as soon as Ever a child is Capable of any instruction . Mane , Early ] is Gods Adverb , and Hodie , To day . ] But , Mane , Stay , Defer till to Morrow ] is the Devils Verb Imperative . But , NOW is a Monosyllable , that will puzle a Philosopher to divide . Begin Betime . The sooner the Safer , and the Easier . A Child is not hardened in Sin , and settled on Sands , as a Man is . N B. Sin and Self , are the Principles , and Ends of All carnal mens Actions . If one be a long time Rooted , and Setled in Sin , he is as hardly changed as the Ethiopians Skin , or Leopards Spots † † Jer. 13.23 . : and So if one be long Setled on the Sands . OH this same Religious Self ! Self , Adorned with Duties , Excellent Painted Performances ! A Self righteous Rock , that hath been building twenty or thirty years ! To pull all Down , to Rase it , to cast it Away as a Menstruous Cloth , and say unto it , Get thee Hence * * Isa. 30.22 . : this goes against the Hair . To deny Sinful Self , and Religious Self , of So long standing : are Mighty Works . Once more I must say , Begin Betime . Your Lads seem to be seven , or eight years Old . You should have begun five or six years Ago . N B. From a Child , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , From an Infant thou hast Known the Holy Scriptures † † 2 Tim. 3.15 . . N B. Parents Expressions , make Impressions , upon Childrens Memories , e g , A Godly Woman being often in Trouble , did for her comfort , usually use these words , [ The Lord liveth * * Psal. 18.46 . ] At length she Sat Silent as one Swallowed up in Sorrow ; A Pretty speech . which her child observing , Said , [ Mother , is God Dead now ? ] And this Shamed her out of her Sorrow . This Instance shews , the Aptness of Children to remember what they hear from their Parents : and , the Usefulnesse of Children to their Parents , if Well Educated . Out of the mouth of Babes and Sucklings hast thou ordained Strength , to Still her Enemy † † Psal. 8.2 . . By this Childs Words , it seems Satan was Stilled from his busie buffeting of the Childs Mother . ¶ (2) The Time of Day . [ When ] thou sittest in thy house , [ When ] thou walkest by the way , [ When ] thou liest down , [ When ] thou risest up * * Deu. 6.7 . . Take Any opportunity : any Seasonable Time ; and some Unseasonable . Be instant , In season , Out of season † † 2 Tim. 4.2 . . Write Apelles Posie , upon your Posts , viz , [ Let No Day passe without a Line . ] Draw One Line a day at Least . Do Duty Daily .

Fift . The Place , Where . ] When , Circum . 5. expresses [ ' Time ] and implies [ Place ] q d , [ Where ] thou sittest ] viz , To Work , To Rest , To Eat . (1) To Work ] Talk of Gods Work . Men can talk of the World at their Work . (2) To Rest ] Talk of Eternal Rest , and Eternal Wrath. Men can talk of the World when they are Weary . (3) To Eat ] Talk of the Bread of Life . Turn Temporal Mercies into Spiritual Discourses . Let Eternity be your Table-Talk . This leads me to testifie against the Vain Table-Talk , of Prophane and Professing People : which profits not , Soul , Body , Man , Woman , or Child : yet as Common as the Day . And which ( if a Stranger be at Table ) consists much of a Company of such common Silly Complements , as I am ashamed to name , viz , Pray eat . Table trash . You are very wellcome . I am Sorry I am no better provided . I doubt I did not cut well . Pray pick a bit where you like . You do not think your self welcome . And Finally , I see I have but troubled you to sit down . ] At which Trash I wonder people do not Blush , and with Shame sweep it out at Door , as Dirt. It 's Sad to consider what Superfluity of Vanity , flows from the Mouths of Professors . And it s a Marvel men have not Worded away All their Mercies . N B. Moses Table talk . Moses had a Great Stranger at His Table : and with him Aaron and all the Elders of Israel : and , they came to eat bread before GOD * * Exo. 18.12 . . As in his Presence , with Reverence to feed with Fear , lest their Table be made a Snare . To feed without Fear , is Fearful . Such are called Clouds without Water , Trees without Fruit , Twice Dead , to whom is reserved the Blacknesse of Darknesse for Ever † † Jude 12 , 13. Jesus table talk . . See some of Jesus Christs Table-Talk , who saith to YOU , Learn of ME. Mat. 9.10 , 11 , 12 , 13. Lu. 7.36 , 40 , to 50. Ch. 11.37 , to 51. Ch. 14.7 , to 25. Ch. 15.4 , to 32. Ch. 22.14 . to 39. But let us see where we are [ Where ] thou walkest by the Way . ] Talk of the Way to Heaven , and Hell . Walk is frequently full of Empty , Vain Talk : let your Walk be full of Vertuous Talk . [ Where ] thou liest Down ] i e , in Bed , an Embleme of the Grave . In which Bed a man is as Buried Alive , above ground , all but the Head . And that is an Embleme of Christ , the Christians Head , Embleme who keeps out of the Grave while his Body ( the Church ) is buried : Death hath No more dominion over Him * * Ro. 6.9 . . [ Where ] thou risest Vp ] i e , out of thy Bed in the Morning , an Embleme of the Resurrection of the Body out of the Grave : by vertue of Christs Resurrection , and Life . By Reason of the Head being kept out of the Bed while the Body Sleeps , the Body Rises in the Morning ( for if the Head was buried in Bed as the Body is , the whole would be Smothered and Dead ) So by vertue of Christ the Head , who is Above ground , above Death , Alive , THE Resurrection , and Life : shall Saints be Raised out of their Sleep . I instance these Emblems to shew you how Lying Down , and Rising Up , does minister occasion of Talking to your Children .

Sixt. The Manner , How . Circum . 6. ] (1) Speak Plainly . ] In all Points , Study the most Plain Expression , and Explication of Words imaginable . What I speak not so Plain to you , I leave with you to Explain to them . I speak to a Man , you to Children . Simile That Key which will most easily open the Door ( though made of Iron or Wood ) is to be used rather than a Key of Gold that will not open it . So such Plain Wooden Words , which do open Truths : rather than Fine Words , which like Paint on a Window , that lets not In , but keeps Out the Light . I have heard a Man ( a Teacher of Men ) speak to a Child in such a Pathetical , Rhetorical , Mystical Strain : without Consideration of Condescension to the Childs Understanding : that I have Utterly abhorred it . And had much rather Such had sat Silent , though it was to my Own , which I Much Desire should hear the Words , by which they may be SAVED . ¶ (2) Talk Enticeingly , ] speak Pleasantly , Alluringly , Affably , Kindly , Winningly . Deliver things in words of Down . Speak Roses , and Hony into their Hearts . Let your lips drop as an hony comb . e g. [ Come my Sweet Child : Thou must not do SO , That is SIN : SATANS Service . He would have thee to Hell : to pay thee with Eternal Pain . But do Thus : This is GODS Service . Love GOD , Serve Him , Fear Him , and it will be well with Thee for Ever . I do SO love thee , I Long to have thee Saved : I cannot Endure thou shouldst be Damned . Be Ruled without the Rod : it grieves me to whip thee , &c. ] Thus Win them by working on the Will. You know the Phrase [ John is a good Boy , when Will is at Home : ] an Up-hill way , is a Down-hill way to a Willing Mind . Let the Law of Kindnesse be in your Tongue , and your Children will arise up , and Call you Blessed † † Pro. 31.26 , 28. . ¶ (3) Talk frequently . ] Thou sahlt teach them Diligently to thy Children , Heb , thou shalt Whet them to thy children * * Deu. 6.7 . . The Hebrew word 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 To whet , ] hath affinity with 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 To repeat ] which signifies , the Word Cuts , and Pierces , by Frequent Repition . An Edge-Tool is Whet , by many Motions , and Rubs upon the Whet-Stone : and the Stone made Bright thereby : So is the Word Sharpened , Simile . and the Heart Brighten'd , and Quickned , by Frequent Repition . But this requires Discretion , i e , so to whet as to set an Edge On , and not whet it Off again : in which work , wisdom is profitable to direct † † Ecl. 10.10 . . She openeth her mouth with Wisdom , and in her tongue is the Law of Kindnesse * * Pro. 31.26 . . A law hath Force , and Power to prevail : So words spoken with Wisdome . The words of the Wise are as Goads † † Ecl. 12.11 . , they will Prick : and as Nails fastened , then is a Word well Driven , when it Nails the Heart to God . Do not Do , and Undo , as you will if you Overdo . Children must not be over-Driven . Let my Lord pass over before , and I will lead on Softly , as the Children be able to endure * * Gen. 33.14 . . Then shall the Lambs feed after their Manner † † Isa. 5.17 . . N B. Children well educated , have Two Titles in the Bible to teach Parents the Necessity of Frequent Instruction , with Discretion (1) [ Arrows * * Psal. 127.4 . . ] Will a Knotty Crooked Stick be made a Straight Arrow with ease , without Work , and Art ? (2) Pollished Stones † † Psa. 144.12 . . ] Will Rough , Rocky , Cragged Stones , become Smooth Pollished Stones , sit for a Princes Palace , without Pains and Skill in Paring and Hewing ? No , nor ( some ) With it neither , who after Hewn , are Slain , as fit for nothing but Slaughter * * Ho. 6.5 . . It s sad when the sword comes to contemn the Rod † † Ezrk. 22.13 . . The Rod is to Convert , and Save . The Sword to Kill , and Damn . When the sword does it's Work , it contemns the Rod , because that did not Do it's Work . But Frequent Instructions , are Frequently Effectual . The waters wear the Stones * * Job 14.19 . . How so ? If a Flood fall on a Flint at Once , it wears it not : but it's falling by a Drop at once , Does it . Gutta cavat lapidem , The soft drop hollows the hard Stone , ] i e , by falling from the Eaves of an House off the End of a Straw . Thus words Frequently falling from Parents Mouths , upon Childrens Hearts . Smal Acts continued , will produce Great Effects .

Seventh . Circum . 7. The End , to Which Children are Educated . ] viz , That Children may be Converted , and Saved , Soul and Body : from Hell , to Heaven . That Parents may be Satisfied , and Comforted in them , in Life and Death . That God may be Served , and Glorified by them . And , They Glorified with GOD , for Evermore . So much of the Circumstances of Education .

Fath.

If my Children be willing to hear and learn Instruction , how shall I Carry it to them ?

Min.

If your Children deserve Praise , Pray let them have it : i e , So much as will encourage them to Be , and Do better . Not too Much I pray . Praise may soon Spoil . Caution . As the fining pot for Silver , and the furnace for Gold , so is a man to his Praise † † Pro. 27.21 . , i e , so is a mans Praise to Him . ] The fining pot and furnace , Try the silver , and Gold , Simile and discover the Drosse : so a mans Praise will Try what mettal he is made of : it will discover his drosse , i e , Pride , Vanity , Levity . A man can neither be too Worthy , nor too Wary of Praise .

Fath.

How if All the good Instruction I can give them , hath No good Operation upon them .

Min.

If Words will not Work , try what Tears will do . Go King Edwards way to Work , viz , K. Edw. the 6th . When he could not prevail against Cranmer , and Ridley with Arguments , he Wept : he fell a Crying , and then they were overcome . Tears are Crying Words , Crying Words heard as High as Heaven : the Lord hath heard the voice of my Weeping * * Psal. 6.8 . . Tears have Piercing Tongues . One would think the Tears of a Father , should break a Heart of Flint .

Fath.

How if Crying Words will not work on the Hearts of my Children ?

Min.

Then try what Dying Words will do , when That Day Comes . Dying Words Leave Dying Words behind you , to work when You are Dead . Dying Words may be Living Words , by which you may speak when Dead , as Abel Did † † Heb. 11.4 . Gather your Children about you Death-Bed , as Jacob did . Jacob called unto his Sons , and said , Gather your selves and hear ye sons of Jacob , and hearken to Israel your Father * * Gen , 49.1 . . q d , Come my Dear Children , Hear the words of your Dying Father . But , Do not defer any one Dayes Duty , till your Dying Day . A Dying Dayes work is a Great Dayes work of it Self , without any work that layes Behind . It 's the Greatest Dayes work of All the Dayes of a mans Life . Die , a little word , a great work . The Word [ Die ] is but Small , but the Work [ Die ] is Great . Besides , should you defer your Duty till you come to Die , your Children will think you want Sleep , and and are Light-Headed , ( your talk being unusual , and strange ) and so will not regard your words . Do your Duty Daily while you Live , that when you come to Die , you may say to your Children , as Mr. Bolton said to his when he was Dying , viz , None of you will Dare to meet me out of Christ , in the Judgement Day . Now ; let us come to the Second General Head , viz , [ Correction ] But — Do you not See ? One of your Sons hath given us the Slip. Pray Recall him quickly .

Fath.

HO Sirrah ! Whither go You ? Come again quick , I charge you . Come not near that Coach there . You Jackanapes , will you Offer it . I would fain see that ; Ay , Do , I would you Durst .

Min.

OH Good Lord have merey on these Poor Children ! Parent corrected . What words are here from a Father , to a Child . [ Sirrah , Jackanapes ] Atat ! Papae ! Apage ! OH ! Alas , Out upon it [ I would fain see that , Do , I would you Durst ] What is the Childs Disobedience , desirable to the Father ? Consequently , the Childs Damnation in Hell is desirable . Under the Law the disobedient Child was stoned to Death : under the Gospel is Damned to Hell . Now I come to Direct you to Correct your Children : it appears you need Correction your Self .

Fath.

Why does he Anger me then ? I use to speak so in my Anger : I cannot Help it : I mean him no Hurt .

Min.

Why does he Anger me ] I thought I had been Speaking to a Man all this while , Because your Son is a Child , You will be So too . Because He angers You : You will anger GOD. [ I use to speak so ] OH How do you Accuse your self by this Excuse ! By this Reply , when a man is Accused of a Sin , he Accuses himself of a Thousand more , to clear One : and all that Aggravates that One. If I should ask such a man [ Friend why do you Swear ? ] I am used to it , I cannot Help it , it 's an old Custom from my Cradle . ] This Excuse is Gods Great Charge : This hath been thy Manner from thy Youth † † Jer. 22.21 . Sad Security . . And will a man clear himself with This ? Will he defend his Neck with the Edge of the Ax ? Save himself from being Drowned by leaping into the Sea ? From being Damned , by leaping Head-long into Hell ? When God ( on his Throne ) brings this man to the Bar , q d , [ Come Sinner , Thou hast broken my Law , what Reason caust thou render why I should not Rend thee in Pieces ? ] Lord I Used to do So. ] What will this man mock God to his Face ? when Mighty Men cry Mountains fall on us , and hide us from his Face . ] But why do I talk to you ? for [ you cannot help it . ] If you cannot , you are under the Power of Sin : that is a Sad Case . But some Cannot , because they ( Care not , or ) Will not . A carnall man Cannot , Believe , Repent : these are the Supernatural Gifts of God . But a carnal man Can Forbear , many Sins , if he Will . e g , Suppose , he that is Drunk must pay a Hundred pound , or his Head . He that Swareth an Oath : Peril produces power . Ten Pound or have his Tongue cut out . And this by a Law , the Penalty of which there is No Possibility of escaping . Then mens Power to passe by an Ale-house , and Bite in their Oaths , would appear . They that Cannot go in the Way of heaven , because they Will not : Shall not go into the Joy of heaven , because GOD Will not . When he that carnally cries [ I Sin , I Cannot Help it , ] shall cry [ LORD , Lord , Heaven GATE is Shut , I cannot Enter : ] then ( in effect ) will God reply [ I Cannot Help it ] I Must be Just . ] Now in saying you Cannot help it , when you Can : instead of Repentance for Sin , you adde Sin to Sin : for this God adds Wo to Wo. To cover Sin with Sin , is a Sad covering for Sin : for which God covers Sorrow with Sorrow , by adding Sorrow to Sorrow . By this Plea , you think to Palliate , and Lessen sin : That is the way to wash the Devils Face , but you make it Never the Whiter . By this pretended Infirmity , you expect the Benifit of Immunity : but , He that covereth his Sins shall not Prosper † † Pro. 28.13 . : but Perish . A young man in the Tavern , seeing Diogenes , fled farther In , to be out of his Sight . Nay , said Diogenes , the farther thou fleest In , the more thou art In the Tavern . ] And be sure your sin will find you Out * * Nu. 32.23 . . [ You mean your children no hurt ] Suppose you were Sick of the Plague , and should go among your Children and breath into their Mouths : and I should cry out , OH Mad Man , what do you Mean ! Will you reply [ I mean no Hurt .

Fath.

I confesse its very bad for Parents to use such words to Children . I did not think there had been so much evil in such words as now I see there is . I accept of Reproof for them . Now having Corected me for my Carnal language : I Pray proceed to the Second Head , viz , Correction for my Children , and Direct Me to Corect Them .

Min.

I will so . Correction The word [ Correction ] comes of the Latin Correctio , of Corrigo , To make straight ] of Rego To rule ] as 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , because Children are Crooked , and Unruly , i e , they do not acord in Heart and Life , with the Straight Line , and Rule , of Gods Word .

Fath.

What am I to Correct my children For ?

Min.

For what God Corrects His children . GOD corrects Man for Iniquity , and Man must correct Children for the Same .

Fath.

How am I to Correct my Children .

Min.

Correction is twofold , viz , [ Verbal ] and [ Verberal , ] i e , with the [ Word ] and with the [ Rod. ]

Fath.

How with the Word ?

Min.

You must Rebuke , Reprove , and Chide your Children , for their Faults .

Fath.

I had need have some Direction in so Doing .

Min.

In this General Head , (1) Correction with Word . viz , [ Correction ] both with [ Word ] and [ Rod ] I shall omit that sevenfold order of Circumstance , used under the First General Head . And the Sum of So many of them as are to our Purpoe : I shall Digest into a Rank of Directions .

¶ 1 ) Do it Timely , Direct. 1. while Tender . ] Take a twig of a years growth , Simile . and you may bend it which way you Will : and straighten its crookedness at Ease . But let it grow crooked many Years , and it will Break before it will Bend. But you can neither bend it , nor Break it . Parents from Children , must their Vices Weed : As they spring Up , before they run to Seed .

¶ 2 ) Do it Secretly , Direct. 2. and Sweetly . ] Pills of Reproof for Children , are to be given Secretly : and in Sugar , or Honey , Gilded over with Gentleness . Some Parents Rebukes , are like Fools Bolts : Simile . [ Soon Shot : ] Bolted out in Any bodies preence , Read to the childs Discouragement † † Col. 3.21 . , Grief , and Disgrace . And if a parent takes away a childs Good Name , what hath it Left to Lose ?

¶ 3 ) Do it Proportionably , Direct. 3. to the Fault . ] Reprove for Smal Faults , with Soft Words . As Mary when she suppos'd her Child was in Fault ! Son , Why hast thou thus dealt with us ? behold , thy Father and I have Sought thee Sorrowing * * Lu. 2.48 . . To Cauterize , and Cut a small swelling , which a little Soft , Sweet Oyntment will Asswage : is Vanity , and Cruelty . There is that speaks like the piercings of a Sword : but the tongue of the wise is health † † Prov. 12.18 . .

¶ 4 ) Do it sometime more Pathetically , Direct. 4. as you see Cause . ] e g , What , my SON ! and what , the Son of my WOMB ! * * Pro. 31.2 . and give thy strength to Women , and Wine . ] So you , What my SON ! and Curse , Lie , Steal . My SON ! and a Swearer , a Sabbath-breaker , a Gamester , a Foolish Jester . If a man sin against the Lord , WHO shall intreat for him † † 1 Sam. 2.25 . . If thou for sake him He will cast thee Off for EVER * * 1 Chro. 28.9 . .

¶ 5 ) Do it somtime more Piercingly . Direct. 5. Accompany Sharp Words with a Cutting Countenance . Eli reproved his Sons for their Great Sins , with Solemn Words , but not with Sharp Looks , Heb , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 He frowned not on them † † 1 Sam. 3.13 . . He ware too Smooth a Brow , for the work of Reproof , for Such Sins . The Heb , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 signifies to look Dark , frown and wrincle , as when the moisture is gone . ] In great grief the blood returns to the Heart for its relief , and that makes the Face Pale as Death . Eli wanted a suitable Sense of his Sons Sin , to Sad , and Horrifie his Heart , and make his Face look dark as Death on them , when their Death lay at Door . What then ? I will Judge his house for Ever for the iniquity which He knoweth : because his Sons made themselves vile , and he restrained them not , Heb , frowned not on them .

¶ 6 ) Do it Scripturally . ] 6 Direct . Oppose their Sin against GOD , with Gods Word , against their Sin . Oppose them with Gods Commands , which are contrary to their Sin : by which their Sin is Forbid . And with the Threats of Gods Judgments against Such Sin , as they are Guilty of . Gods Word is called the Sword of the Spirit * * Eph. 6.17 . . Handle it Well toward the Spirits of your Children . And then the Word of Correction , may be a Sword to Kill their Corruption . Thus far of Corection , with the [ Word . ]

Fath.

How am I to Correct my Children with the Rod ?

Min.

First let me give you some Scriptural Account of the word [ Rod: ] Rod fourfold . In doing of which I shall take notice of a fourfold Rod. ¶ (1) A Civil Rod ] in the hand of the Magistrate : ] e g , Moses Rod. It was called the Rod of God † † Ex. 4.20 . . And it may be called a Miraculous Rod : by it Waters were turned into Blood * * Ch. 7.20 . . Dust turned into Lice † † Ch. 8.16 . . Thunder and Hail fetched from Heaven * * Ch. 9.23 . . Locusts brought , such as Never the like before nor since † † Ch. 10.14 . The Red Sea divided . The Rock made to run Water * * Nu. 20.10 . And yet this was but the Staff , with which Moses had kept Jethro's Flock † † Exo. 3.1 . Ch. 4.2 . : now set apart for other Service . And when Kingly Government was set up , God took David ( with his Sheep-Staff ) from following the Sheep , to Feed , and rule Israel * * Psal. 78.70 . . And Kings did formerly use such Staves as grew out of the Ground : but afterward for their Glory , they were made of Gold : The King held out the Golden Scepter to Esther † † Est. 5.2 . . The Heb is 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Sherbet , Greek , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , Sceptron : Hence the word Scepter : The Scepter shall not depart from Judah * * Gen. 49.10 . . Here the Heb is 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Shebet : this word is frequently translated [ Rod: ] Scepter or Rod it signifies Rule . It hath been the custom of a Person in Authority , to have a Staff or Rod in his hand as a sign of Dignity . It was a custom to carry a Rod before a Roman Ruler . Some such custom is to this Day in use [ as with our Lord Major ) to carry a Scepter , Sword , or Mace , as a Token of Authority . This Civil Rod was Uncivilly used , and Horribly abused , when ( with it ) the Jews smote Jesus the Judge of Israel upon the Cheek † † Mic. 5.1 . for which the Scepter departed from Judah . Felix quem faciunt aliena pericula cautum . ¶ (2) An Ecclesiastical Rod ] in the hand of the Minister . ] Saith Paul to Christs Church at Corinth , Shall I come unto you with a Rod † † 1 Cor. 4.21 . ? viz , To rebuke the proud Spirits of such as were puffed up : with such Reproofs , and Censures , as the Case of the Offender called for . ¶ (3) A Divine Rod ] in the hand of God . ] This signifies Gods Soveraignty over All , to Rule as he please : the Godly in Mercy , the Wicked in Judgment . God would Rule the Godly by his Word . As he Saves by the Grace of the Gospel , he would Rule by the Government of the Gospel : i e , his Holy Laws . But if the Word will not Rule , the Rod shall . If for our Rule we would make More use of Gods Word : God would make Lesse use of his Rod. Gods Rod with which he whips his children for Sin ( many times ) is Men : I will be his Father and be shall be my Son : if he commit iniquity , I will chasten him with the Rod of Men * * 2 Sam. 7. . Solomon sinned , And the Lord stirred up an adversary , Hadad † † 1 King . 11.14 . . And God stirred him up another adversary , Rezon * * Ver. 23. . And Jeroboam lift up his hand against the King † † Ver. 26. . Thus God gathers a Rod , Ties these twigs together , Whips his Son , Does his work upon Mount Zion : Then throws the Assyrian , the Rod of his Anger into the Fire * * Isa. 10.5 , 12. . And Sicknesse is Gods Rod : Hear the Rod , and him that hath appointed it † † Mic. 6.9 . I will make thee sick in smiting thee , because of thy sins * * Ver. 13. . The wicked are spared , The Rod of God is not upon them † † Job 21.9 . : but when it comes it is to Ruine them : Thou shalt break them with a Rod of Iron * * Psal. 2.9 . N B , If the Godly be not Ruled by the Word , they shall be Ruled by the Rod : God will Rule or Ruin . but if the Wicked be not Ruled by the Word , they shall be Ruined by the Rod or by the Sword . ¶ (4) A Paternal Rod ] in the hand of the Father : ] with which he is to Rule the Child , when the Word will not Do. The Parents Rod may bare all the Former Titles . [ A Civil Rod ] as it respects the Faners toward Men. [ An Ecclesiastical Rod ] as it respects the Childs Obedience to God . [ A Divine Rod ] as it is by the Divine Appointment of God . Now N B , In all these , the Original Word signifies a Staff , to Stay or Lean upon . e g , (1) The Civil Rod 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Matteh , A Staff † † Exo. 4.20 . . (2) The Ecclesiastical Rod , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 * * 1 Cor. 4. 21. ] Provide no Staff , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 † † Mat. 10.10 . . ] Jacob worshipped leaning upon the top of his Staff , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 * * Heb. 11.21 . . ] In these 3 Texts the Greek word is the same . (3) The Divine Rod 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Matteh Baculus , A staff † † Mic. 6.9 . . (4) The Fathers Rod for the Child 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Shebet , A staff to Stay upon * * Pro. 23.14 . .

Faith .

What are we to learn by this ?

Min.

The Parallel of the Rod and Staff . ] If a Staff be laid By , it s no Stay : but if it be Handled , and well Used , it s a good Stay to the Body . So (1) If the Magistrate handle his [ Rod ] i e , So officiate as to perfom his part Well : So act as to exercise a Good Conscience : it will be a Good Stay to his Mind . In that Rebellion of Korah against Moses the great Magistrate which made his Body fall Flat * * Num. 16.4 . , what supported his Spirit ? I have not taken One Asse from them , nor hurt One of them † † ver. 15. (2) The Apostles were pressed out of Measure , above Strength , despaired of Life * * 2 Cor. 1.8 . : what was their Stay ? Our rejoycing is This , the Testimony of our Conscience † † ver. 12. . (3) If God's Rod hang at our Back , ] If we believe it 's in Love , if we take it in the hand of Faith for a token of Eternal Love , if we Thus handle it , it 's to us a Staff : Thy Rod and thy Staff , they comfort me * * Psal. 23.4 . . David was in a Fearlesse , Faithfull frame : and then though in the valley of the shadow of Death , he would fear no Evil. God's Rod is sometimes Terrible : as Moses Rod when turned to a Serpent . Simile Fear makes him Flee from it † † Ex. 4.3 . . But when he handled it in Faith and Obedience , it ceased to be a Serpent to Slay him , and became a Rod to Stay him . (4) The Fathers Rod ] If he use it Well it will be his Staff : Correct thy Son and he shall give thee Rest * * Pro. 29.17 . . If the Rod be So used as to fetch Folly out of the childs Heart , and make it Wise , what then ? My Son , if thine Heart be Wise , my Heart shall rejoyce , even mine * * Pro. 23.15 . . Thus if Good Successe . But if No good successe , yet if the Parent perform his Part , it will be his Stay , though the Child falls Down into Hell Fire .

Fath.

Now give me some Direction in this Rod Correction .

Min.

I will so . 1 Direct . for Rod Correction The first Direction shall be by way of Caution , with respect to the Original Signification of the word Rod , viz , A Staff . Hence you are in NO wise to imagine that you may beat a Child with a Staff , as if you were to beat a Bull or a Bear : in so doing the Child may reply as the Philistine to David , Am I a Dog ? NO , but with a Rodof small Twigs , or such like , which will Smart , but not Hurt .

¶ 2 ) Do it Timely ] Chasten thy son while there is hope * * Pro. 19.18 . q d , 2 Direct . There will be No hope if hardened by long neglect . So heart hardening is Sin , that some Children under the Rod have reply'd to their Parents [ Ay , Kill me if you will , I will Never yield . ] Childrens corruptions are the Cords , by which Satan binds them to the Stake to be Burned : and draws them down to hell to be Damned . If you will cut these Cords do it Early , and you do it Easily . But while you neglect your Duty , Behold a Double Miserie : viz , Satan is both Softening your Childrens Hears for his own Suggestions ; and Hardening them against your Instruction , and Correction . So that the Heart will be as Soft Wax to Satans Temptation , to receive the Least Impresson : and as a Hard Flint to GODS Word a Mans Rod. Past Cure . Till at length it may be to as much Purpose to correct a Child , as to whip a Post , or a Wild Beast .

¶ 3 ) Do it Tenderly , 3 Direct . Lovingly , Pitifully , Patiently : ] Not Passionately , Wrathfully , or Angerly . It was a Sweet Saying of Plato to his provoking Scholar : Parent learn of Plato . [ I could find in my heart to Beat thee , but that I am Angry with thee Parents put Children to pain for Satans pleasure . ] . Some parents will not correct their Children , till Provocation hath put them into a Passion . He that is moved by Passion to Correction , obeyeth not GOD , but the DEVIL , and Passion : and God will not Blesse , but Curse such correction . N B , God corrects His Children in Love : to learn you to correct Your Children in Love . Make it manifest to your childrens Consciences , and Capacities , that you correct them in Obedience to GOD , and in Love to their Souls : and the it 's like to have Good Successe .

¶ 4 ) Do it Secretly . 4 Direct . Put not a poor Child to Publick Shame . Let not a child be Corrected , as if a man was to be Executed , i e , upon a Stage : but have it into the House of Correction , i e , some close Corner , or Chamber . If your Childrens Faults are offensive to your Neighbours , or Publick : it 's convenient to let them Know of Correction , for good Example Sake : and lest they think you Wink at Wickednesse .

¶ 5 ) Do it Unanimously . 5 Direct . ] Let Father and Mother remember , the Insitution , Conjunction , Injunction of God , for their Union from the Beginning : They shall be One † † Gen. 2.24 . . Did he not make One ? and wherefore One ? to seek a Godly Seed , Heb , a seed of God * * Mal. 2.15 . . God is speaking against Unlawfull Marriage , and Disunion in Life . N B , Marriage according to Gods Institution , accompanied with a Godly Conversation , and Union in the Education of Children : is an Excellent way of Good Successe in seeking a Godly Seed . But if Disunited in this Deed , if there be a Disunion in Correction , the Faulty Child flees from one , to the other , for Shelter . And thinks the Child , of the next evil Act [ I will Venture , for my Mother will save me from my Fathers Rod. ] This Hardens , and Spoils : and makes a child Love one , and Hate the other : and love that parent Most , that Least deserves it . Note the Fruit of this Parental Diversity of Education , by this Text. A Wise Son makes a Glad Father * * Pro. 10.1 . : Why not a glad Mother too ? It 's when the sons Wisdom is a fruit of the fathers Wise godly education . [ But a Foolish Son is the heavinesse of his Mother : ] Why not of his Father too ? It 's when the sons Folly , is a fruit of the mothers Fondnesse : which serves to make children Fools : which folly she must Feed on as the bitter fruit of her doings . It ' Strange yet True , viz , That Mothers had need Learn to Love their Own Children * * Tit. 2.4 . If they do not , they are like to Love them so as to learn God to Loath them : and so as to Shelter them from the Rod that should Save them . Parents must not one Oppose another . But let Both agree , and Both be present , and Acquiesce in this Act , of Rod Correction . Vis unita fortior .

¶ 6 ) Do it Proportionably to the Fault . 6 Direct . ] And that must be sometimes Softly and sometime Sharply . If God will Plague David , and Spare Doeg , it is the Lord : let him do as he will . Gods Will is his Rule : Gods Word is Mans Rule : by which Word the offender is to be beaten according to his Fault , by a certain number of stripes † † Deu. 25.2 . To which the Law of the N T , is Consonant * * Lu. 12.47 . And Laws of Justice , among Christians , and Heathens : for even some of These have been Excellent in their love To , and exercise Of Justice . Consider what Circumstances of a childs Fault do Aggravate it . e g , Such a Time , Sabbath Day , and in Sermon Time , Often Warned of it , Little Tempted to it , Done with Delight . Sweet Meat must have Sowre Sauce . ] Consider what may Lessen the Fault , e g , Much Temptation to it , Little Warning of it , Ignorance of the Evil of the Act. He that knows and yet does evil , shall be beaten with Many stripes † † Lu. 12.47 : He that knows not , with Few stripes . ] Much Correction , for Little Transgression : is not Equity , but Cruelty . Little Correction , for Much Transgression : is Impiety , Foolish Pity . Both Unjust , Unsuitable , Unprofitable , next to Nothing , if not Worse than Nought .

¶ 7 ) Do it Effectually , 7 Direct . ] To which end it must ( sometime ) be done Smartly . A Rod is such a Plaister for a childs Sore , as will not Cure without Smart . Let it Smart , till the child Submit . Let not the Rod Go ; till the Child do kindly Kisse it away . God will do thus by His Children , and you must do thus by Your Children , or else you do nothing . Some parents think , if they whip a way their . Own Anger , though not the Childs Humour , the work is Done . There is a little Pleasure for the parents Passion performed : Read and the poor child Put into a Passion † † Eph. 6.4 . : in both which some Service for SATAN is done , and That is all . So much for this Rank of Directions . Now , If you have any Objections against Rod Correction , bring them Forth .

Fath.

I perceive by these two Last Directions , Object . 1 against Rod Correction . if my Children commit Great Faults , they must be Sorely Whipt . But I have such a tender Love and Pitie to my Children , that I cannot sind in my heart so to whip them . I know not what miserie they may endure when I am Dead : and I do not intend to Torment them while I Live .

Min.

I like not such Love : I am not pleased with such Pitie : Love , Pitie , do you call it ?

Fath.

Yes , What else should I call it ?

Min.

Hatred , and Cruelty .

Fath.

That is Very Strange .

Min.

And it is Very True .

Fath.

I believe not Such Truth .

Min.

Will you refer it to the GOD of Truth , and believe Him ?

Fath.

God forbid , I should refuse that .

Min.

Then hear the Answer of GOD.

Jehovah .

He that spareth the Rod , Hateth his Son , but he that Loveth him , chasteneth him Betimes † † Pro. 13.24 .

Min.

So , now I hope you will believe it's Truth .

Fath.

I dare not deny it , but I understand not how it's hatred and Cruetly .

Min.

The Proverb will partly prove it , viz , Spare the Rod , and Spoil the Child . Foolish Pitie , spoils the Citie . By sparing the Rod you choose rather to have your Child howl for ever in Hell , under Gods Wrath : than to cry a little under a mans Rod. This pitiful Pity to the Body , is Cruelty both to Body and Soul . And it makes a Man rather a Paricide than a Parent .

Fath.

But may not I forbear when my child cryes Grievously , Object . 2 and Grieves me ?

Min.

No no , Let not thy soul spare for his Crying * * Pro. 19.19 . . The Rod signifies Nothing without Smart . Your love is such that you would fain deal ill with your Child , and ill requite your Father also . N B , God did not spare his Only Son , for his Strong Crying and Tears : viz , O my Father if it be Possible let this cup passe from me † † Mat. 26.39 . Father Save me from this hour * * Joh. 12.27 . . From which he delivered him Not : but delivered him Up , to the Crused Death of the Crosse , for your sake . And you will not Whip Your Son with a Rod , that cuts not Skin Deep , for his sake . They that will not Correct a son at Gods Command , are very unlike to Kill a son at Gods Command † † Gen. 22. : as Abraham offer'd to do , his Son , his Only Son Isaac whom he loved .

Fath.

When I go to whip my child for a fault he Cries and Begs , Object . 3 and Promises to do so no More : and then I think I do well to spare him .

Min.

And does he keep his promises ?

Fath.

I consesse he fails me in that .

Min.

Why do you trust him then ?

Fath.

Because I hope he will be better next Time .

Min.

Now you turn Child . This is a very Cheat. And what a Shame is it for a Man , to be Cheated by a Child : and by his Own , whom he Knows hath Deceived him . This will encourage a child to do Any thing : for he will think [ it's but Crying a little when the Rod comes , and promising to do so no More : and my Father will Spare me , and I shall come off Clear . ] And this will learn a Child to set Light by his Father , and So will he come under that Curse † † Deu. 27.16 . .

Faith .

If I whip my Children , Object . 4 it makes them take Gods name in Vain , by crying , O Lord , Lord , O God : so I think I had better let them alone .

Min.

That Cry is an ? Accident , and not your Intent . And you leave Off because they give you cause to go On : for they are to be whipt for that Cry . And it is a sign they want good government . But take heed you do not pretend Piety , when you intend foolish Pity : or pretend Conscience , when you intend Negligence .

Faith .

But one of my children hath such Passions , Object 5 and Fits , when Crossed or Whipt : that I fear it will die Quite away .

Min.

Fear not its Dying , in doing your Duty . But let us hear the Answer of GOD to this Critical Case .

Jehovah . Withhold not Correction from the Child , for if thou beat him with the Rod , he shall not Die * * Pro. 23.13 . .

Min.

So : I hope That fear is removed .

Fath.

But how may I understand this [ he shall not die ? ]

Min.

Thus. (1) He shall not die under the Rod : Correction shall not Kill . (2) He shall not die as a Malefactor by the hand of the Magistrate . For want of the Parents Rod , some come to the Magistrates Sword , i e , the Gallows . (3) He shall not die an Eternal Death . Thou shalt beat him with the Rod and shalt deliver his Soul from Hell † † Pro. 23.14 . . Through Gods blessing , Correction shall Issue in the Childs Conversion .

Fath.

A man cannot Convert a child by all the Instruction , Object . 6 and Correction in the World .

Min.

By the same Argument all Ministers Living may leave Preaching . But who would be thus deceive by SATAN ? To make men Proud , he will suggest great matters by Doing . To make men neglect their Duty , Satans deceit . he will suggest , their Doing will come All to Nothing . [ All the Education in the World cannot Save a child . ] But when by Neglect a child is Lost , the same Satan will suggest [ if the Parents Duty had been Performed , the Child had been Savewd . ] (2) Though You cannot Convert your children , GOD can Convert them By you . And make you Instruments in their Regeneration , as well as in their Generation . In their Second Birth , as well as in the First . If you Will not be Instruments in Gods hand , Tell him so . If you Will : Do your Part , and leave God to do His. The endeavour and Care belongs to You : the Cure belongs to GOD. (3) Though you cannot Convert vert them , you can Restrain them . For want of This , god threatned to Judge Eli's house for Ever . (4) this Restraint , will prevent much Trouble , if God convert them by Other means . Trouble for Sin at Conversion from it : accords with the Measure of-Sin , in the Commission of it . The Greater sin Before conversion , the Greater sorrow , At , and After conversion . the Parent blames the Preacher for the Childs Terrour : when the fault is in the Father and Mother . (5) If your Children should Never be Converted , but for Ever Damned : this Restraint will prevent much Torment . (6) And God will be Glorified by your Service . You will be Instruments of his glory . And shall be Rewarded , though Israel be not Gathered * * Isa. 49.3 , 4 , 5. .

Fath.

But I see no good , Object . 7 whipping and beating children doth . And I have heard Mr C say , it hath done his Hurt : and if it were to do Again , he would Never do it : let Preachers say what they please .

Min.

I shall please to say this for him , He that will learn of none but himself , is like to have but a Fool for his Master . No wonder if he slight a Minister , for he will defie the Almighty , and charge Infinite Wisdom with Folly . viz , To appoint , to no purpose . To command Correction to Cure , and Mend children , which makes them Worse . Shall any teach GOD knowledge † † Job 21.22 ? God is so wise , he Cannot be taught by Men. Some are so Unwise they cannot be taught by men . And Mr C is so wise he Will not be taught by men . He will neglect Correction , till a Child is Hardened . Then under Provocation , fall on in a Passion . To which Correction , God cleaves his Curse . And then Mr C will cast it Quite off , for he sees no good it does . Because he may not do it in the Devils way , he will not do it at all . This Pest is so provoking , I Passe it : as not fit to be spoken to with Patience .

Fath.

I suppose there are as wise men , Object . 8 who do not so strictly Instruct , and Correct their Children , as there are that do .

Min.

Tell not me of their Wisdom , if the Word of the Only Wise God was never their Rule . Or if they have left Off to take heed to the Lord * * Ho. 4.10 . . The Wise men have rejected the Word of the Lord , and What Wisdom is in them ? Heb , the wisdom of What Thing † † Jer. 8.9 . ? not of the Stork , Turtle , Crane , Swallow : they know their appointed Times : but such people know not the Judgment of the Lord * * Ver. 7. . Nor of the Oxe , or Asse : That , knows his Owner , This , his Masters Crib , but Israel doth not Know † † Isa. 1.3 . poor silly Ant , the pitifull Pi ? smire is preferred before Such wise men * * Pro. 6.6 . . Vain man , Heb , Empty man would be Wise , ( ie , counted so ) though man be born like the Wild Asses Colt † † Job 11.12 . Man is so much a Beast , that he knows not he is a Beast , till God hath taught him . And he Never learns to be a Man , till he learns to know he is a Beast . Ignorance is a Great enemie to Knowledge , but there is one Greater , ie , Self-Conceitednesse . Seest thou a man Wise in his own Conceit ? more hope of a Fool than of him * * Pro. 26.12 . . They are the Wisest and Best Men , who Best know they are Beasts † † Psal. 73.22 . Pro. 30.2 . Object. 9. .

Fath.

But we must not take Gods work out of his hand .

Min.

No : but we must take Our work into Our hand : and not suffer Satan to take it Out of our hand . Your words , I once heard fall from a Ministers mouth : but it was to me a Hateful Morsel . When a Parent is expressing his desire to do his duty to his Children , then for a Preacher to reply [ So so , we must not take Gods work out of his hand . ] Thus for him who should Provoke a parent to his work , to Obstruct him in it : O Hateful , Sottish , Sensuall , Satanical Saying !

Fath.

I have heard Mr. C. say , Object . 10 he beat one of his Boys , and he Ran away , and Never heard more of him to this Day . It shall be an Item , for Me.

Min.

SO : Cursed correction . There is Correction , with an Execration , and No Benediction : and the parent punished by way of Retaliation . His disobedience to GOD , in not giving his son due Correction : is punished by his sons disobedience to Him , not counting Correction worthy of Acceptation . The Father ran away from GOD : the Son ran away from the Father . [ Never heard of him more ! ] He may hear of him too Soon , viz , that he hath broken into some House , or is turned High-way-man , and taken to be both Hanged and Damned , in One Day . And for his fathers neglect , to Howl for ever in Hell . At which his father ( if not hardened ) may Howl in a Hell upon Earth . And was his Father to be at his Sons Execution , it 's probable he would desire to be Revenged on him , for letting him come to Such an End . As that Boy did , who ( when he was going up the Ladder ) required to Kisse his Mother : but to be Revenged on her , Bit off her Nose , saying , Mr N. [ If you had given me Due Correction , I had Never come to This. ] Let not your Lads laugh at it . He would have Bit off her Head , and Pulled out her Heart had it been in his Power . If Parents be without Natural Affection for their Children : Children will be without Natural Affection for their Parents . Witnesse that Wicked Boys reply to his Wicked Mother ( who complained at Stake she was exceeding Dry ) viz , Mr N. No Matter Mother , you will Burn the Better .

Fath.

One Story and another is enough to Distract a man . You tell me of a Boy that was hanged , because Not corrected . Another tells me of a Man that was hanged , because his boy Was corrected . viz , He beat his Son so that he died , and then was Hanged for him . It would make a man afraid to beat Children , I think .

Min.

That Man , or Monster , I knew : and see Hanged in [ Cambridge Castle-Yard . ] What then ? was it Due Correction that killed him ? God commands Parents to beat children , From death , not To death . Had he used such a Rod as I have directed you to use : and used it by the Rule of Gods Good Word : he had done his child no Hurt . But he ( with his Club Law ) regarded No such rule : Devilish correction . but was Ruled by his Passion , and his Parent the DEVIL : with whom ( it 's to be feared ) he is now in Hell Fire .

Fath.

I suppose it 's the safest way , Object . 12 to erre on the Right Hand , when all is done .

Min.

I wish you knew the Right Hand from the Left in this matter . To avoid One Extream , you will run into Another . Both Extreams are Bad : and of two evils , you will chuse the Worst . I have exhorted you to use the Rod in Love . And I exhort you to do All in Love . But , Fond affection , Sinfull indulgence , and Unseasonable smiles : I dehort you From , and charge you before God to beware Of : as Vitious , and Perilous . And lest you Wink at this Warning , Hear some of the Sad Effects , of such Parental Vices : of which a sew Instances . ¶ (1) Adonijah ] His father David had not displeased him at ANY Time , Heb , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 from his dayes , ] Junius , Nunquam , Never ] displeased him , in saying , Why hast thou done so † † 1 Kin. 1.6 . ? And what is the fruit of this fond affection ? even Adonijah's Self-Exaltation to his Own Destruction . He exalts himself , saying , I will be King † † ver. 5. : and that brings him home by the horns of the Altar : where he hardly escapes * * Ver. 50. . Then ( to bring it about ) he must have Abishag to wife : and that brings him Quite to the Slaughter † † Ch. 2.25 . This laying the Reins on the Neck , hath run Many a child to Ruin . Children need No more to undo them than their Own Desires : No , nor Men neither . ¶ (2) Absolom ] He having Killed Amnon his Brother , comes and Bows to David his Father : and the King Kissed Absolom * * 2 Sam. 14.33 . . After this he aspires the Crown , seeks his fathers Life , loses his Own † † Ch. 18.14 , and twenty thousand more * * Ver. 7. . David was ( comparatively ) a good King : absolutely , a good Christian , a good Prophet , a good Preacher : and yet a bad Father . Let the best in the World beware . Even a David will Dote : and Eli will honour his Sons above God † † 1 Sam. 2.29 . . This makes gods of Children : and that is the way to make DEVILS of them , for God to Destroy , or to Spare to their Parents Destruction , e g , Thy two ( indulged ) sons Hophni and Phinehas shall Both Die in One Day * * Ver. 34. . And the Man of Thine whom I shall not cut off , shall be to Consume thine Eyes and of Grieve thy Heart † † Ver. 33. . That some such gods are Suddenly gone , this True Story will Testifie . [ A godly Father being set at a Festival Dinner , in comes a Curious Child : O ( saith the Father speaking lightly ) I fear I shall make a god of this Child . But the End of that Dinner was a Bitter Day : Mr Jer Burroughs was present . for before they rose from the Table , that Child was found Drowned in a Pond . ] You have your Items , viz , Item the Boy that Ran away from the Rod. Item the Boy that was Killed with Correction . HERE be Items for you ! Item , Adonijah , Item Absolom . Item Eli's sons , whose end was Destruction , for want of Correction . And Item the Idolized Child , that was Drowned ( I doubt ) because Deified .

Fath.

These are Sad things to befall the Godly .

Min.

Sad things ( for sin ) befall Such soonest of All : for , Judgment must Begin at the House of God † † 1 Pet. 4.17 . . Such , sin against a Threefold light : viz , the light of Nature , the light of Grace , and the light of Gods Word . Sin against Such Light , is a Great aggravation of sin . Weigh a sin Single in the Scale , then adde this Circumstance , viz , it was against Knowledge : that weighs more than the Sin it Self . Knowledge of GOD is a Great Good , no lesse than Eternal Life : sin against Such Knowledge , must needs be a Great Evil. N B , If sin against Knowledg , be against the Will , it is not So great : but Wo to them that sin against Knowledg , With the Will. Let us take heed of Sin against London light . A Caution for London . . Sin at London , is Greater than sin in a dark Country : and the scourge Sorer upon that account when it comes . WO , wo , wo , to them that go into the Land of Darknesse , by London Light .

Fath.

Many poor Parents want Time to Instruct , Object . 13 and Correct their Children .

Min.

And so may Rich too , the course they take . Men have Many wayes , to throw their Time down the Stream : I shall Instance two , which are Common to men .

First .

They Word it away . Precious time Prated away . Let me say they Prate it away about impertinent things , to no Purpose , or Profit , for Soul or Body , Self or Others , Church or State . They are for Any thing , Every thing , which is worse then Nothing . Tell them of their Work : O then , [ We want Time . ] But , let not Man be Deceived : GOD will not be Mocked . And many times , Pertinent things , and Spiritual things too , are discoursed to No Purpose at all . Will this discourse do in Dooms Day ? to the Law ( to try ) and to the Testimony , of Jesus . But I say unto you , That every IDLE WORD that men shall speak , they shall give account thereof in the Day of Judgment * * Mat. 12.36 . .

Fath.

What is an Idle Word ?

Min.

The Greek , word 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , Idle , Idle word opened ] of a privative , and 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , A work : ] signifies , a Word without Work , a Work-lesse word , a Saying without Service , ie , which neither profits Speaker , nor Hearer . At the multitudes of Such Words , out of the mouths of Professors , I have been amazed times without Number : to think , how CAN they look OVER , or look ON , this Text as a Cypher * * MAT. XII XXXVI . . As if they had got a Licence , to let their Tongues go as they List . There is a time to Every thing † † Ecl. 3.1 . , and for some things that one would think there should be No Time for , viz , to Kill , to Hate * * Ver. 3 , 8. : and yet we read of NO Time for Idle Talk . And that Christ hath purchased Precious Time , with his most Precious Blood , for Vain Talkers to spend THUS : I leave it with them to Prove , or to Answer it in the Day of Judgement . ¶ And much Time is thus lost about News , as forementioned in the Morning . Many wise men resemble the Simple , who believeth every word † † Pro. 14.15 . : though they know what an uncertain thing Report is : both by Experience , and Sacred Scripture . e g , Tidings came to David , saying , Absolom hath slain ALL the Kings sons , and there is not ONE of them left * * 2 Sa. 13.30 . Report makes an uncertain Sound . . When they were All alive but One who did not deserve to Live : nor to be Counted One of the Kings sons : viz , Amnon who had forced his Sister Tamar . Thus persons Prate away their Time .

Second . Precious time Piped away . They Pipe it away with that Pidle : and Tabacco , that Bauble . Of which ( because I doubt it 's your Vanity ) Hear me a little . ¶ By way of Concession , I grant , Tabacco is a Creature of GOD : and hath its Vertue for the Use of Man : as every Herb , Weed , and Toad hath . It 's good for Cold , Moist Bodies , and such Diseases , if moderately Used . Against the Good , Lawfull , Convenient use of it , I say Nothing ¶ By way of Conviction , of the Vanity , Inconveniency , and ill Consequence , of the Common Abuse , or Immoderate Use of it . A wofull waster . ¶ 1 ) It 's Prodigiously Expensive , both of Time , and Coin . Some observe , [ A man may walk a Mile while he Puffs away a Pipe of Tabacco . ] How many do they that Dote , drink away in a Day ! No wonder , such want Time for better work : Time to lay up Eternal Treasure . Tabacco hath not been of use in England 100 Years : in which Term , It came by Sir Francis Drake 1585. it hath Stole away more Time , and Cost , more Coin , than all England is worth . Doubtlesse ( by God's judicial permission ) the Devil had a hand in its importation . Sharper is that Saying of a King . K James . viz , Tabacco is a lively image of Hell . An if I was to invite the Devil to Dinner , I professe ( for one Dish ) he should have a Pipe of Tabacco . ¶ 2 ) It is a very Vain , Vitious , Foolish Custome . A very Toy . It makes Men , turn Toys . And with their Mouth , Pidle , and Bauble , spend their Time in Foming out Fume , to smoke the Air where they Sit , Walk , Ride , or lay in Bed . As if men were Born to take Tabacco . Should it please God to raise a man from the Dead ( who died Anno 1580 ) and say , [ Come , I will send thee to see the Exercise of England : ] the man would Wonder what men are Doing . This Smoking Trade at Every Turn , would be as great a Wonder to Him , as his Rising from the Dead would be to Them . It 's bewitching . ¶ 3 ) It is a Venity , which hath a bewitching Faculty . It works on the Will , and makes men Willing to be bewitched with it . It takes away appetite from Bread , the Staffe of Life : and begets an impetuous appetite after it Self . And so brings a man under it's power : which Paul in All Points resolve against . All things are Lawful , but all things are not Expedient : all things are lawful for me , but I will not be brought under the Power of any † † 1 Cor. 6.12 . . ¶ 4 ) It 's an Epidemical , Infectious , Contagious Vice : where is it's like under the Sun ? Both Sexes , Men , and Women . All Degrees of Men : from the DUKE , to the Dray-man on the Dung-hill . All Sects , in point of profession of Religion . In a word All Men ( some few excepted ) are ( more or lesse ) Vitiously addicted to it . ¶ 5 ) This bewitching weed , this Indian Henbane , Hot Henbane . is Hot and Dry in a High Degree . It Dries away the Juice and Moisture of the Body , till it be like a Bottle in the Smoke . It inflames the Blood . It distempers and intoxicates the Brain . And doth the whole Man much hurt . Physical . ¶ 6 ) It 's strongly Physical : therefore not fit for Food , nor Fashion . Too much of the Best Food , will Soon fit a man for the Worms . Too much of the Best Physick , will Send a man to the Same Place . Tabacco is a Physical Herb. To take Physick at every turn : both Full , and Fasting . At every meals meat : in Conclusion , a Potion . Another in Bed . As oft as men Meet , on Any Occasion , to take a Potion . And abroad in the Cold Air , to open the Veins and Pores of the Body , to let in Death . This is a MAD TRADE . An ill master . ¶ 7 ) Where Tabacco hath got the Mastery , it is a great Enemy . And the more a man Loves it , and keeps it Company , as if it were a Friend : The more it is an Enemy . And he that is under this Slavery , is not at Liberty , to order either Body or Soul , as he should . Nor does he seem to Care , what becomes of one , or the other . Let such beware lest they lose Both , by the Love of Tabacco . Let such take heed they do not So smoke away their Time , as to smoke to Eternity : in the sulpherous smoke of Fire and Brimstone : which ascends up for Ever and Ever † † Rev. 14.10 , 11. Caution . . And let them that Preach Down any one Vice in their Pulpits , take heed they do not Set Up this unparallel'd Vice for another in their Practice . And the same I say , of All Professors of godliness . ¶ 8 ) The time may come when ( if they Had it and that would Do ) Prodigal Parents would give Rivers of Oyl , and Sack-fulls of Silver and Gold , for the Golden hours they suffer to Swim Down these Two Streams : and will not use them for the Education of their poor perishing children . Job was very Officious for his Children , he Sent to them , he Sanctified them , he Sacrificed for them , he rose up Early to do it , he did it according to the number of them All , i e , he did his duty to Every one , for , Job said , It May be my sons have Sinned * * Job 1.5 . . ( How many do know Certainly , their sons have sinned Notoriously , and yet let it passe unpardoned ) Thus did Job continually 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 all the dayes † † Ver. 5. , as long as they lived . And yet when Dead , what a Doleful Ditie doth he makes with his Elegie * * Ch. 29.2 , 5. . If So , how may Carelesse Parents Howl , if by Sudden death their Children Fall !

Fath.

Pray did you never take Tabacco ?

Min.

Take it ! Yes truly : and that took Me too into Custody and Slavery . But having got Liberty it shall Never take me more : nor I That , by the help of God , in whose Fear I forsook it .

Fath.

I will never take Tabacco again as I have done . Two Pipes a day shall be All. The good , lawfull , convenient use of it you allow .

Min.

True , but that respects him that can So use it . Who can have Himself , and It at Command : make it his Servant , not his Master : Take it and Leave it as he List , which Few can do . In these three words , [ Good , Lawfull , Convenient ] are implyed two more , viz , [ UndersTanding , Thanksgiving . ] What you take of this Physick , you must Understand to be Proper for your Distemper : and take no more than does you Good : and for which you may with Boldness , and Acceptance to God , give Thanks † † 1 Tim. 4.4 . . Far be it from you to take it for Fashion-sake . Or to p lease the Palate . Or to shew that piece of Breeding ( so called ) which every Clown hath so long since learn'd . And as to your Two Pipes ( because I doubt you cannot Command it ) I conclude it 's your Safest way to cast it Quite off . For if it be not a Servant in Subjection , it will be a Master in Dominion . It 's like an encroaching Parasite : give him an Inch , he will take an Ell. It 's like the Pope of Rome : Simile . He must Up , or Down , now in England . And if with you all England would Expell this Vanity ( as I pray they may do Popery ) it would be a Thousand times better : for where it does a Grain of Good , it does a Masse of Mischief . Were Englands Wealth well Ordered , England would live Well . If what the Rich Wast in this bewitching Weed was given to the Poor , ( provided they leave Wasting ) it would make them all Rich. And the Rich not the Poorer , but the Richer : i e , with the Reward they shall receive of the Lord , who lend to Him , by relieving the Poor * * Pro. 19.17 . But if men have Smoked away their Senses , it 's in vain to say , Lo , how Black is this Crow ! or how White is this Snow ! Well , So or So , it gives me some Content , that I have thus far cast Contempt upon the Abominable Abuse of this Honourable Creature [ Tabacco : ] which hath almost England at Command , beside Other Countries . And whether I call this a Testimony for God against this Vanity of Vanities , or No : yet Take it SO.

¶ Sir , in pleading against Sin , Vanity , Carnality : I plead for GOD , against whom it is Enmity . And whether You , or Others , will Hear or Forbear † † Ezek. 3.11 . , yet I will endeavour to deliver my Soul * * Ver. 19. . For Gods hand is taking hold of Judgment . In the hand of the Lord there is a Cup , it is full of mixture † † Psal. 75.8 . , i e , of Judgments , without mixture of Mercy for the Wicked * * Rev. 14.10 . . It 's a mixture of Mercy , and Judgment for the Godly . And it is to be feared , God will come Down with his Cup , and give England a Vomit , to make it Spew out its Inhabitants , for their Abominations . viz , This Smoking Sin , Drunkenness , Adultery , Fornication , Theft , Covetousness , Cursing , Swearing , Lying , Whoring , Sabbath-breaking , Sodomy , Buggery , Blasphemy , Perjury , Pride , Deceit , Malice , Envy , Hypocrisie , Treachery , Tyranny , Idolatry , Popery . False Oaths , by Baal and Malcham † † Jer. 12.16 . Zeph. 1.5 . . Covenant breaking . Contempt of God : his Word , and Wayes . Formality without Efficacy in Christianity . Against All which , I Testifie , for GOD : He that Heareth , let him Hear , and he that Forbeareth , let him Forbear * * Ezek. 3.27 . .

Fath.

I perceive you have done with Tabacco : Object . 14 and I will try if I can bid it Adiev . But what do you say of Poor Parents who do not thus consume their Time ? Yet want time to Educate their Children : because Bodily businesse spends it all . I have heard T A say , All his time is too Little to get a living for his childrens Bodies : though he Never spend any of his time about their Souls .

Min.

As to your repeated Plea for the Poor , I say , Parents Poverty is an Argument for Industry for the Soul , and Diligence , not for Negligence . q d , We are poor among Men , and so we are like to Live and Die . Come , let us labour that We and our Poor Children may be Rich toward GOD. Thus Earthly Poverty , should provoke Parents to procure Heavenly Riches . Christs Precept should Drive them to it , Seek ye first the Kingdom of God : and his Promise should Draw them to it , these things shall be added † † Mat 6.33 Simile . As the Seller , gives in the Paper , when the Parcel is Purchased . Let them make Sure of Heaven , and trust God for Earth : in a way of Duty , and Industry . Godlinesse hath the promise of This life 1 Tim 4.8 . : and before the Godly shall want Mercies , GOD will work Miracles . If this will not Do , I would say to T A : Thou Wretch , who art thou Born ( and Bound ) to obey ? God or the Devil . Let them who are so full of Bodily businesse , that they are necessitated , to neglect the Soul , A sinfull necssity . Consider : (1) Is not necessity Voluntary ? do not I Choose to overcharge my self with businesse ? am not I carried into it by a Covetous Mind , after Much Gain ? If SO , let them expect it to End as the Act of Esops covetous Dog : Esop's fable of the Dog . who swimming over a River by Moon-shine , catched at the Shadow of the meat in his own Mouth , and So lost ALL. But (2) If necessity be Providential , and a man be Very Poor , or unavoidably involved in abundance of businesse : let him be Humbled under it , and lay it to Heart as a Sad Case : and Pray , and Implore God about it . q d , OH Good Lord , what a Judgment am I under ! shall I be under a Necessity to neglect the One thing Necessary ? A Sad necessity . shall I and mine be under a necessity , So to Labour for our Bodies , as to Lose our Souls ? LORD Help , or Behold , we Die , we Die , Eternally † † Nu. 17.12 . . And who knows how Prevalent , prayer may be for Liberty , from such a Necessity and Misery .

Fath.

I perceive you slight All Objections against the Education of Children , and so I shall adde no more .

Min.

I do so , Utterly . And shall do so , whosoever be the Opposer , All Ob rejected . viz , Parent , Professor , Preacher , Apostle or Angel . And do count them All as Dirt , not deserving a Word in Answer . And I did think to have given No other answer , to All yours . Nor would I , but to clear your Way to this Good Work .

Fath.

Now it seems our discourse is at End .

Min.

No , if So , it will not end well .

Fath.

Sit you Silent then ? go on to the end .

Min.

To what end or purpose ? except what is Past took more Place .

Fath.

Solomon saith , He that observeth the Wind shall not Sowe * * Ecl. 11.4 . .

Min.

Well said . Then I will Sowe On. But if you receive not the Seed into good Ground , and bring not forth fruit well ; it will be Worse for you , and Yours too . Yea , Wo to you , if counsel be Well given To you , and Ill taken By you .

Fath.

I will take it as well as I can .

Min.

Seeing you promise so Fair , Advice , Civil , Secular . I will proceed to give you some Advice of a Civil , Secular , Temporal concern . This is implyed In , and a part Of [ Education ] proposed to be spoken unto , as the Subject and Sum of our discourse .

Fath.

Pray do so , I much desire to hear that .

Min.

This will have some respect to Spirituals , as Spiritual advice hath respect to Temporals . For by reason of the Union of Soul and Body , Good advice for the Soul respects the Good of the Body : and Good advice for the Body , respects the Good of the Soul . This advice , I shall deliver in these 12 Documents .

First . Docu . 1. Learning . Give your children Learning . ] Let them that Can , take Cato's Counsel .

Instrue praeceptis animum , nec discere cesses : Nam sine doctrinâ vita est quasi mortis imago . With learning store thy mind , cease not to learn : Without it none can life from death discern .

¶ At least , learn them to read their Own Language Well . Some Persons ( by their Parents negligence ) can look on a Bible to No more Purpose then to look on a Blank or a Block . A sad case . The Bible is a Sealed Book : when it layes Open before their Eyes . It 's as in an Unknown Tongue : in their Own Language . It 's translated into English , and some English men can No more read it , then if it was Still in Hebrew , and Greek . The Blessed Bible , contains a Thousand Letters , of Gods good will and mind to Man . And though all of Infinite concern , yet Some men Never read one of them All while they live . They that can be content with This : their Sleep is Deep , and their Hearts are Dead : yea Harder then either Flint , Adamant , or the nether Milstone .

Second . As soon as children are Capable of it , Docu . 2. Employment . Let them be some way well Employed . ] Idlenesse is the hour of Temptation , to Destruction . While the little Bird is in action , Embleme . hopping from Bush to Bush , it is Safe : but when it sits Still it is soon Shot to Death . Idlenesse is a time of Temptation to evil Action . And because children are not well Employed , they Give and Take , much Mischief . All persons , Poor and Rich , are to be well set a Work . That the Poor must work , I need not tell you . But , Great Augusstus . great Augustus Caesar , set his daughters to Spin and Card : and ware no Garments but what They made him . Rich Rebekah ( it seems ) was a Rare Cook † † Gen. 27. 9 . And her mother Sarah * * Gen. 18.6 . And Tamar the Kings Daughter † † 2 Sam. 13.6 . . They had not the Art to Seek when they had occasion to Use it . And these things were written for our Learning * * Ro. 15.4 . . But our delicate Damsels now a dayes , would ware Rebekahs Bracelets , but not bare her Pitcher † † Gen. 24.15 . . And put on Tamars Coat of divers Colours , but not put their hands into her Kneading Trough . * * 2 Sa. 13.8 .

Fath.

But me thinks you Tie up Children very Strictly . Solomon seems to allow more Liberty . What else means he by this Text ? † † Ecl. 11.9 .

Min.

Not to give Liberty , for Vanity . Not to adde Fuel to the Fire of youthfull lusts . But this is an Ironical speech , i e , by way of Derision . Ironie . And so sometime would Christ speak to his Own Disciples . e g , Sleep on now , and take your Rest * * Mat. 26.45 . : q d , If you like it , with so many Halberts about your Heads . If God speak to the Wicked , Ironically ; he speaks Judicially . e g , God forbad Balaam to go with Balak's Messengers † † Nu. 22.12 , 19 , 20 , 31. yet he detains them for a Further Answer from God . And he Hath it , Wo to him that God bids go against his Will. God said , Go with them : q d , I know thy fingers Itch after Balak's Money-Bag : Go , q d , if thou Darest , and then meets him with a Drawn Sword . Thus Micajah to Ahab : Go up and prosper † † 1 K. 22.15 , when it was to perish . Thus Elijah to Baals Prophets , who were howling for help : O Baal hear us * * Ch. 18.26 . Cry Aloud , saith Elijah , for he is a god : either he is Talking , or he is Pursuing , or he is in a Journey , or peradventure he Sleepeth , and must be Awaked † † ver. 27. If men will mock GOD , God will mock Men. God bids men Pray : they Play . God bids men Fast , and Mourn : they Feast , and Rejoyce . God bids men run to Heaven : they run to Hell . God bids men , Give diligence to make sure of Election , and Salvation : they are diligent to make sure of Rejection , If men will be Crosse , they will be Crossed . and Damnation . This presumption provokes God to speak Ironically , Angerly , and in Indignation : and to give counsel Contrary to Salvation . Thus Solomon , Rejoyce , Let thy heart cheer thee , Walk in the wayes of thy heart : q d , Seeing thou Wilt do so , whether God will or No. But know Thou , that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment * * Ecl. 11.9 . Here is the biting [ But ] at last : q d , But God will Hale thee to Judgment , if it be Never so much against the Hair , and the Heart too with thee . Simile . As a man to a wilfull child , who will not go to School , but to Play : [ Go , take your course : but , I will make it Dear Play to you . ] Now if the Youth will sincerely desire to know what Solomon means in good Earnest , that they may hear God speak Mercifully , and not Judicially . Then , Rejoyce : is Repent . Let thy heart Cheer thee : is , Let thy sins Grieve thee . Walk in the wayes of thy Heart : is , Walk in the wayes of Gods Own Heart . And thus is this Text reconciled to , Remember thy Creatour in the dayes of thy youth † † Ecl. 12.1 .

Third . Teach them to be of Good Behaviour . ] Such as becomes the Children of Men. Docu . 3. Comely Carriage . And of Parents professing Godlinesse . Such Carriage as becomes the Children , of the Children of God . Teach them to honour their Parents . Their Neighbours . And Strangers . That salutation of Abrahams servant to Rebekah , and her respectfull reply to his Petition : is recorded as an Ornament to both He and She. viz , let me ( I pray the ) drink a little water of thy Pitcher . ] And she said , Drink my Lord , and I will draw water for thy Camels also * * Gen. 24. 17 , 18 , 19. . Teach them to honour the Aged . Thou shalt rise up before the Hoary head , and honour the face of the Old man † † Lev. 19.32 . . For the Child to be have himself proudly against the Ancient : is spoken of as a Judgment * * 1 Sa. 2.7 . Take heed they do not despise the Poor . Whoso mocketh the Poor , reproacheth his Maker † † Pro. 17.5 . the Lord maketh Poor * * 1 Sa. 2.7 . . Let them not despise the Lame , the Blind , the Crooked , the Deformed . These are Gods Workmanship . God hath made them for his Glory : and not for Objects of Scorn , and Contempt , for their Fellow Creatures . Dread the thoughts of their despising the Godly . A Sad Monument . Let parents remember that Monument of Vengeance : viz , Two Bears taring 42 children at Once , for mocking of One godly man † † 2 Kin. 2.24 . Barren Michael hath Too many children in England , to mock at holy Habits , and Excercises of godlinesse * * 2 Sa. 6.20 . Noah could not build an Ark without a Mock . But they had Done mocking when they stood on Tip-toe , on the Top of the Mountains , Mocker , Remember this . up to the Mouth in Water . And God will have a Time to Stop , every mocking mouth . A Sad Shame . In the mean time ( to the SHAME of their Parents be it spoken ) there are Multitudes of Children in England , who have No more Christiauity , nor Civility , than if they were the Off-spring of Indians and Pagans : or the Seed of Savage Wild Beasts of the Wildernesse .

Fourth . Docu . 4. Care of Health . Have a Special Care of their Health . ] Endeavour to prevent Diseases , which come by infected Houses , or Persons . Or by Idlenesse , and want of Exercise . Or by Heats and Colds . By going too thin Cloathed , or Wet . By any ill Diet in Food . Or by eating Unripe Fruits : as Apples , Pears , Plums , Cheries . Or over many Ripe . Thus some suffer their Children , to shorten their Dayes : and to be sent to their Long Home , Long before their Time .

Fift . Docu . 5. Gasualty . Beware of , and Dread the danger of Sudden Death . ] By falling into Rivers , Brooks Ponds , Wells , standing Open , or with Rotten Covers . By climbing , and falling from Ladders , Trees , Leads on the house Top. London ! Look to it . Or out at Wide windows , or Casements . By Timber , Stones , Bricks , falling on them . By Coaches , Carts , Cars , Horses . By Swallowing any thing Perilous . And let parents that count these Cautions Ridiculous , take heed God do not give them more cause to Cry by suffering their children to Perish : then I do give them cause to Laugh by seeking to Save and Preserve them .

Sixt. Teach them to have a care of evil Company , and evil Counsel . ] Docu . 6. Ill company . An evil Companion , is an evil Counseller : and an evil Counseller is an evil Companion : one is Both , and they are both One , as unseparable . Give warning of this Gulf , with wise Solomon . My son , if sinners entice thee consent thou Not † † Pro. 1.10.11 . . If they say , Come : it 's the Devils call to a match of mischief . Let us all have one Purse * * ver. 14. : proves to be all one Gallows . Evil Company , and evil Counsel , hath destroyed many a one with a Double destruction : Body and Soul , both at once . An evil Counseller , As evil as the Devil . will speak Death in at the Ear , as the DEVIL at first did . Evil Counsel is enough to bring the KING of a Nation to Confusion , and Destruction . I have read of a king , A Kings Confession who confessed at his Execution , that such Evil Instruments brought him to the Block .

Evil discourse Infects : How oft is Death ? Blown into Souls , by an Infectious Breath .

Seventh . Docu . 7. Restraint . Take heed of allowing them too much Liberty , to wander abroad upon Pleasure . ] Dinah must go Gadding to see the daughters of the Land : and she comes home Deslowed † † Gen. 34.1 . . And much more mischief follows . Simeon and Levi in their cursed anger , Kill their Confederates , whom they had Coozened into a Covenant * * Ver. 25. And it was a wonder , that Damsels walk did not end in the Destruction of Jacob , and his House , as he feared † † Ver. 30. . I may say to you , as Paul bid the Colossians say to Archippus : viz , Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord that thou fulfill it * * Col. 4.17 . . Every parent is an Archippus , who hath received a Ministry of the Lord in Charge for children . Archippus is a Greek word , which signifies , A governour of horses . ] Children are Wild Colts † † Job 11.12 , who when grown Head-strong , will not regard the crying of the driver * * Job 39.7 . . ¶ Sir , you should seriously consider what a Roaring Lyon the Devil is † † 1 Pet. 5.8 . : and how diligently he deviseth to Devour your children . And that it 's not your Own conversion that will prove their preservation , from Temporal , or Eternal destruction : but Their godly education . God hath sworn that , Noah , Daniel , and Job , shall deliver neither Son nor Daughter by their Own righteousnesse * * Ezek. 14.20 . . It 's not parents imputative righteousnesse for Justification , nor inherent righteousnesse for Sanctification , that will Save their children . But it 's their righteousnesse in Conversation , viz , Godly Education , by which they must become their Saviours . It 's not the Conversion of a Father , nor of an Emperour , that can secure a poor child from Satan the Devourer . And therefore a Child was he who cryed out for joy at the Emperours conversion : [ O! the Emperour is a Christian ! ] q d , Emperour Now we shall have Halcion dayes , a Heaven upon Earth . ] To whom a wiser person thus replyed , But the DEVIL is not a Christian yet . ] And so long as he is not Converted , nor Confined to the bottomlesse pit : Christians must look for No lesse mischief then he can do Them and Theirs too . He will go to the End of his Bounds , to a Hairs Breadth 〈◊〉 And here let me adde this Caution , Caution ] 〈◊〉 ●hen your children are under Convictions , enquire into Satans Temptations . For if once the children be come to the Birth , it will be ( on the Devils part ) a day of Rebuke and Blasphemy † † 2 Kin. 19.3 . [ Rebuke ] to Conviction , Convertion , Faith , Hope , Prayer : q d , It 's too Soon , thou art too Young , or too Good , to need such a Change . Or , it s too Late , thou art too Old , and too Wicked to be saved . [ Blasphemy ] by such suggestions from SATAN , against GOD , CHRIST , the Spirit of grace , that the foul may think Unpardonable . The Sum of all which is , (1) to make a soul Secure , and Presume on salvation Without conversion : or (2) to drive a soul to Despair of salvation With conversion .

Eight . Docu . 8. Examination . Take an Acount of your childrens Practices , Purposes , Pretences . ] Even a Child is known by his Doings , whether his work be pure , and whether it be right * * Pto. 20.11 . . The neglect of this Duty had like to lost David's Life . Absalom intends Rebellion , and he pretends Religion : I pray thee let me go and pay my Vow which I Vowed to the Lord in Hebron † † 2 Sam. 15.7 . . And the King said , Go in peace * * Ver. 9. . Poor David ! Ah pitifull reply ! David should have Sifted the businesse about , q d , How now ! what , Vow a Vow to the Lord , and defer to pay it for 40 Years ! † † Ver. 7. what fiery Fit is this you are fallen into ? how comes it to passe you are Now so conscionable who have been So long carelesse ? ] Had David been Considerate , Absaloms design had been Frus●●●●● . But David makes No more to do : Go in peace , q d , Absalom is in a Very good mind , I hope he will Now be a Comfort to me . ] A way goes Absalom , to make War with his father . This turns David's Tune : his Harp into mourning * * Job 30.31 . : Behold my Son , which came forth of my bowels seeks my Life † † 2 Sam. 16 , 11. And besides Absalom's Death , and David's Dolorous Grief : this causes a Slaughter of Twenty Thousand men . That Phrase hath Too much foundation : In nomine Domini incipit omne malum .

Ninth . Docu . 9. Partiality . Take heed of fond Partiality . ] It 's of evil Consequence . It sets that Root which bears Gall * * Deu. 29.18 . . And sets children together by the Ears . And makes them Murder one another . e g , Isaac loved Esau , but Rebekah loved Jacob † † Gen. 29.28 . Isaac called Esau HIS son * * Ch. 27.1 . : and Rebekah spake to Jacob HER son † † Ver. 6. . Esau was Isaacs boy : Jacob was Rebekahs boy . What is the fruit of this parental partiality ? even Esau's Partiality and Enmity to his Father , Mother and Brother . Esau hated Jacob , q d , He hath All my mothers heart : she hath None for Me : and I will have as little for Her . The dayes of mourning for my father are at hand , then will I Slay my brother Jacob * * Ver. 41. . q d , Not while my loving Father lives , to grieve him : but when he is Dead , and my mother under Dolour : I will Double it by my brothers Murder . She thinks Birth-right , and Blessing , and All too little for him : but he shall not Long enjoy it , nor She him . At Esau's threat , Jacob flees for his Life : yet takes not Warning , but loves Joseph more than All his children † † Gen. 37.3 . For which Love , his brethren Hate him : conspire to Slay him : and Sell him into Egypt , to his fathers Sorrow . And Gods Providence in this , will not justifie Jacobs inordinate Affection : nor his sons evil Action . N B. Children can quarrell Too soon of their own Heads : though parents set them not together by the Ears . e g. Two Brothers walked abroad in a Star-light night . Said A : A Sad Story , Would I had a Pasture as large as this Element . Said B. Would I had as many Oxen as there be Stars . Said A : Mr Jer Burroughs , and Camerarius . Where would you feed them all ? Said B : In your Pasture . A , What whether I will or no ? B , Yes whether you will or no. A , What in Spight of me ? B , Yes in Spight of you . And thus from Words to Blows : till they Sheathed their Swords in each others Bowels . Let Parents N B. The first murder in the World recorded in Scripture , was between two Brothers : because One was respected , not the Other . Because God countenances Abel , Cain kills him * * Gen. 4. . God may Love one brother , and Hate another : but this is no Rule for Father or Mother . And these are Ancient Things † † 1 Ch. 4.22 Docu . 10. To take heed of Smooth Tongues . .

Tenth . Teach them to take heed of being Deceived . ] Learn them to be Very Wary of fair false Pretences , and Promises : and Satanical Subtilties , of Smooth Tongues . e g , [ Your Servant Sir , at your Command ] and a Thousand Gingles . ] When [ your Servant ] seeks to serve Himself , and to Swallow up Him , Cursed Complements . and his Substance , whom he thus Cursedly complements . Caution your children to be Very Wary of the Wicked Wits of the world . What sayth the Scripture , of these Subtil Serpents ? Their belly Prepareth deceit * * Job . 15.35 . The man's mind is a Shop of deceit , where it 's Framed as by an Artificer , and Tools . It 's a Work-house , and a Store-house , for , he he Layeth up deceit within him † † Pro. 26.24 . . He hath it Ready for an Opportunity : and then what the Mind hath prepared , the Tongue utters , and the Hands act . ] His mouth is Full of deceit * * Psal. 10.7 . If one pretence will not take , he hath another . And if Specious Pretences , and Audacious Promises will not prevail : he will shew [ Sorrow ] that there is so much Deceit in the world : and [ Fear ] that it will fare the worse with Honest men for Knaves . He will tell you , he would not have you Trust him , if you do at All suspect him . For though your Goods or Money be Never so safe in his hand : it may cause Fear , and Disquiet , which he would by No means occasion . And this is Very Effectual . ] Bread of deceit is Sweet † † Pro. 20.17 . Secret sin is the Devil's Inn. : this entices him to his Trade . But when he eats the Sweet in Secret , the Devil is at Inn in his Heart . And let him not think to Dine with the DEVIL , and Sup with a Saint and an Angel : for afterward his mouth shall be Filled with gravel : to trouble the Teeth till they Gnash , and torment the Conscience to Eternity . David , deprecates a deceitfull tongue : prayes for deliverance From it : and is at a losse for a Plague , Bad enough For it . What shall be given to thee ? or what shall be done to thee thou false tongue ? Sharp arrows of the mighty , Deeply piercing and wounding : Coals of Juniper * * Psal. 120.2 , 3 , 4. , i e , Fierce , and long lasting Fire . In the mean time , True Men suffer by False Tongues : viz , in Goods , Good-name , Life and all : for , Death and Life are in the power of the Tongue † † Pro. 18.21 . . [ Death ] by pleading Against a man : as them two sons of Belial against Naboth * * 1 K. 21.13 . [ Life ] by pleading For a man : as Israel for Jonathan † † 1 Sa. 14.45 . . [ Death ] in a mans Own Tongue , as Adonijah , who spake against his Own Life * * 1 K. 2.23 . . And sometime by words drawn out by an Enemy , in Policy . Take heed ( say some ) thy Own Tongue , do not cut thy Own Throat . ] In a word , Arabick Proverb . there is World of deceit in the world . Sir , it concerns you Seriously to consider it : and to teach them to be as wise as Serpents , who must have to do with Devils . Such a one was one [ Squire ] a Papist sent from Spain to Poyson Q Elizabeth : who , when to that End he was secretly poysoning the Pummel of her Sadle , A white Devil . prayed Aloud saying , GOD SAVE THE QUEEN .

Eleventh . Get good Trades , Docu . 11. Good Trades or wayes of Lively-hood for your children . ] that they may be Substantial , and not need to be Supported by others . Friends are apt to Fail : trust not in them † † Mica . 7.5 . Brittle mettal . . Use them as Venice-glasses , i e , Very warily , and lean on them , Very lightly . Nothing costs Dearer then Some mens Gifts . The donours Geese are such Swan : he knows not When he is Satisfied . Free-hearted Hiram ( who was ever a lover of David * * 1 K. 5.1 . ) supplies Solomon with Wood for Building † † ver. 10. : for which Solomon gives him 20 Cities * * Chap. 9.11 . : and who would have thought of a word of Discord between them two . Hiram comes to see them , he is Displeased † † Ver. 12. : What Cities are these thou hast given me my brother ? * * Ver. 13. q d , Here be Cities indeed ! and he called them 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Cabul Displeasing , ] of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Fetters . ] They were too Straight to fill his Heart : it would hold 20 more . His heart was so much Larger than his Liberty , that he was as Fettered , and Prisoned in his Palaces . And so they were Displeasing : Cabul to this Day : they Never pleased him .

Fath.

What Trades do you commend to me for my children ?

Min.

I have not skill to choose Trades for children : but I will give you a Caution . Caution . Take heed how you judge of the Goodnesse of a Trade , by the Greatnesse , or Gain of a Trade . To make the Greatnesse , or Gain of a trade , an argument for the Goodnesse of a trade : may be Antiscriptural , and Heathenish . Demetrius , the Silver-smith , had a Trade of No smal Gain : it was not therefore Good † † Act. 19.24 . . The godly must eye Gods Glory , more than their own Gain . And the Publick good , of Church and State . A good Trade . That is a Good Trade by which the body Lives , and with which the soul Thrives , and grows Rich: and by which the Times are in some measure Mended , and the Devil Troubled . His servants , Sanbalat , and Tobiah were Grieved that there was a man come to seek the Welfare of Israel * * Neh. 2.10 . A good ground of Bad grief . . It 's better to be a grief to such Sanbalats , because we do Good , and grow Good : than to be a grief to them , because we grow Great . Tell your children , they are not the Richest who have most of the World , in their Possessions , Purses , and Houses : but they who have most of the Word , Spirit , and Golden Grace of God in their Hearts . And they are not the Wisest who are Ever seeking that which will Never satisfie , if Never so much be obtained : but they who seek that which will Sweetly Satisfie , and Eternally Content .

Fath.

But I hope there is no Hurt in Riches , though they be not a Heaven upon Earth , to afford full satisfaction .

Min.

No HURT ! wise Solomon was not of your opinion . There is a sore evil which I have seen under the sun , viz , Riches kept For the owners thereof to their Hurt † † Ecl. 5.13 . . It 's a Wonder if the worldling charge not the wise man with Folly , or the Printer with Error : saying , Surely it is to be read [ kept From them to their Hurt . ] For this is all his Fear : to have them kept For him , is all his Care : though it be to his Hurt . How to his Hurt ? Silver is not Sin : Pearls are not Poyson . No , but for mans Sin , the Ground out of which they come is Cursed * * Gen. 3.17 . Ground is comprehensive : All cursed to the wicked . Simile As Paint proves not one to be of a good Complexion : Prosperity proves not one to be in a good Condtion . That Gingle [ God hath blessed such a man with a Great estate : ] The sound of a London Cymbal . hath made my Ears to Tingle . For , in Truth , he being Carnal [ God hath Cursed such a man with a Great estate . ] To say [ The man is grown Rich ] is too Plain , for our Fashionable Professors : therefore the Speech must be Adorned with [ God hath Blessed . ] And then this Fine Phrase , for mans Ornament and Gods Honour : is a taking the Lords name in Vain , and a Very Lie . Whether or no the Person be blessed , is not by such considered . But if I will know whether the Estate be blessed , I must know whether the Person be blessed . If a Person be cursed , his Estate is cursed , both Personal , and Real , and All to his Hurt . The fault is not in a mans good Goods , Land , or House : but in his bad Heart . The mischief lyes not in the Lump of riches , but in the Love of riches . If the Lump of riches gets into the House , the Love of riches gets into the Heart . If a man love the World , he loves not God † † 1 Jo. 2.15 . What a man loves not , is not his god : his Goods are his gods : then no wonder if God do Curse , him and his gods together . ¶ 2 ) Nor was a wiser than Solomon of your opinion , viz , Jesus . Verily I say unto you , that a Rich man shall hardly enter into the Kingdom of Heaven . And again I say unto you , It is Easier for a Camel to go through the Eye of a Needle , than for a Rich man to enter into the Kingdom of God * * Mat. 19.23 , 24. . At this the Disciples were so Amazed , that ( I suppose ) if great estates had then been Offered to them , they durst not have Owned them . They seem to Faint under the Fear of being Rich. A rare fear . Strange men ! Many fear Poverty : Few fear Plenty . Many fear they shall be Poor : but who is afraid he shall be Rich ? this is the most Dangerous condition : the Mean is most Desireable : Give me neither Poverty nor Riches † † Pro. 30.8 . . ¶ 3 ) Nor was that Person of your opinion , who gave away his Goods , that he might be the Lighter to climb up Jacob's Ladder : i e , Crates's conclusion with his Coin . into Heaven . ¶ 4 ) Nor was Crates of your mind , who took his Money and threw it into the Sea : saying , [ I will destroy Thee , lest thou destroy Me. ] But he was much of your mind , who being at Sea in a Sinking Ship , suddenly fills his Pockets , and Bosom , with Silver and Gold , as fast as he could . And thus in a few minutes he made himself Very Rich. The Rich poor wretch . But , steeping out of the Sinking Ship , into the Swimming Boat , he was so Weighty with his Wealth that he stept Short , and Sank into the Sea , and was Never seen more . If not money , yet , the Love of money , is the Root of All evil * * 1 Tim. 6.10 . : an Expression as if spoken of the Devil . If no hurt in the Love of money , there is no hurt in the DEVIL , nor any hurt in Hell .

Fath. HA ! OH Master ! Min. Madam ! Maiden ! is it Meet To set thy Heart where Beasts do set their Feet ? It 's not untruly Said if you be Told : You dig for Drosse , with Mattocks made of Gold . Affections are too Precious to bestow : Upon the New-things , No-things here below . The Eagle Scorns to fall down from on High : The Proverb saith , to catch the silly Fly . And can a Christian leave the love of GOD ? To love the Ground , and cleave unto a Clod. Like him at Sea , who did his Cabbin Sweep : When All was going Down into the Deep . Or like the silly Bird , that to her nest : Is carrying Mosse , and never is at rest . Till feather'd well it be , but doth not See The Ax below , that 's hewing down the Tree .

Twelfth . If it shall please God to blesse Education for Conversion , docu . 12. Concerning . Marriage . or to convert your children by other means : ] Give not a child in Marriage to one that is Wicked , or without a work of Grace . Marriage is a very Solemn thing : in which Parents should be very Serious . Abraham was old , and he said to his servant that ruled his house , Put I pray thee thy hand under my thigh : and I will make thee swear by the LORD , the God of Heaven , and the God of the Earth , that thou shalt not take a Wife unto my Son of the daughters of the Canaanites † † Gen. 24.1 . It 's probable Abraham remembred the Ruin , unlawfull marriages brought upon the Old World . The sons of God * * Gen. 6.2 . ] i e , which were of the Church of God : the posterity of Seth 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Put ] in Abel's stead , whom Cain slew † † Ch. 4.25 . . Saw the daughters of men ] i e , Cain's posterity . [ They took them , ] and forthwith are called [ Flesh , * * Ch. 6.3 . ] & threatned with a Flood to destroy all flesh . And it 's probable , the sons of men took the daughters of God too : and so made the greater mixture , and more Apostates , as the word 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Giants ] signifies , coming of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 To fall † † Ver. 4. . See what an End the son of the Israelitish woman ( whose father was an Egyptian ) came to . She learn'd him to Speak : he learn'd him to Blasheme : for which he is Stoned to Death * * Lev. 24.10 . . The Jews married wives of Ashdod † † Neh. 13.23 . : and their children spake Half in the speech of Ashdod * * Ver. 24. . Their fathers learn'd them to speak like Jews , and Hebrews : and their mothers learn'd them to speak like Heathens : i e , to Swear , and Curse , for which their parents were Cursed † † Ver. 25. . What an unparallel'd wicked person is a Husband ( sometime ) by reason of a wicked Wife . There was None like Ahab , who did sell himself to work wickednesse in the sight of the Lord , whom Jezebel his wife stirred up * * 1 Kin. 21.25 . . Jehoram slew all his brethren with the Sword , and slew the Princes of Israel † † 2 Chro. 21.4 . , and wrought evil in the eyes of the Lord , for he had the daughter of Ahab to Wife * * Ver. 6. . These kinds of Contracts are called Treachery : their seed called Strange children † † Ho. 5.7 . : and the Parents appointed to Perish . Judah hath dealt treacherously , hath married the daughter of a strange god : the Lord will Cut Off the man that doth this * * Mal. 2.11 , 12. . And if you say , What is this to us in England ? they were Heathens : Paul provides you an answer : Be not unequally yoked with unbelievers † † 2 Cor. 6.14 . . If unbelievers , it signifies Nothing to be Protestants and Professors . Such contracts of believers and unbelievers ( being as contrary to God as Darkness to Light ) I conclude are of the Devil . He hath ( sometime ) No such infallible way to Ruin a Christian as this . Then he tempts some one of his Servants to love such a one . And sends him with his Suit : A bargain from the bottomless pit . dressed up with his Tongue tipt with Goodly Talk . Deceitfully addicted to Sermons . To praise the best Preachers . To complain of Sin . In all points to feign a Conformity to Christianity . If it will not do , great Love , and Trouble is professed . And it will be his Death : or he shall Drown himself , if his desire be denyed . But if granted , she shall have what Liberty she will . Ask such a Shechem Never so much Dowry , he will give it , let him but have the Damsel to wife † † Gen. 34.12 . . And when the Devils will is Done , and they be once One , they are soon Two . Then she is Frowned upon , and Frumpt , and Fisted , and excluded at the door . She would not hear God's warning Word , and shew shall feel Gods scourging rod. It shall be a Serpent , a Scorpion , a Plague . Better be bound Hand and Foot , to a Dead body , and burried Alive , than thus married . Christians are Strangely stupified when carelesse of Gods Word , in such a Weighty concern . And they shall be Strangely punished , to be awakened , and humbled : and Happy they if ever saved . Yea , Happy are they , if they may have the happinesse , to go through a Hell upon earth , to Heaven .

Fath.

How if my child make a Promise to such a Person , Before I know it .

Min.

Then you must break it After you know it : and the Lord shall forgive it * * Nu. 30.3 , 4 , 5. .

¶ To all which of Education , I adde these two Exhortations , For childrens Children . for Time to come . (1) If you Live to it , and have Time , and Opportunity for it : Teach your childrens Children † † Deu. 4.9 . . Let them be brought upon your Knees , to that End . Not to take their parents work out of their hands : but to help them on in this Great good work [ Education . ] While you live , think not your Time too much for GOD : were it to our-last the age of Methuselah . But (2) Live or Die , Lay a very solemn Injunction upon your children , to teach Their children . And to lay the like Injunction on their children , to teach Their children . Thus leave an Inheritance to your childrens Children † † Pro. 13.22 . . Make your practice profitable to Posterity , to convey conversion from Generation to Generation : that Religion may run in a Blood , and flourish in your Families throughout All generations : so long as the Sun and Moon endures . These Scriptures do not stand for Cyphers , which I will only relate , and leave with you to Ponder at leasure . Hear me , I will declare that which Wise men have told from their Fathers , and have not hid it * * Job 15.18 . I will utter dark sayings of old : which we have heard and known : and our Fathers have told us . We will not hide them from their Children , shewing the generation to Come the praises of the Lord . For he established a Testimony in Jacob , and appointed a Law in Israel , which he commanded our Fathers , that they should make them known to their Children . That the generation to Come might know them , even the Children which should be born : who should arise and declare them to Their children † † Psal. 78.2 . to 7. . Hear ye Children the instruction of a Father , &c. For I was my Fathers son : he taught . Me also , &c * * Pro. 4.1 , 3 , 4. . The father to the children , SHALL make known thy Truth † † Isa. 38.19 . When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee , which dwelt first in thy Grand-mother Lois , and thy Mother Eunice , and I am perswaded that in thee also * * 2 Tim. 1.5 . . The Elder to the Elect Lady and her Children , whom I love in the truth : for the truths sake which dwelleth in us and shall be with us for ever . I rejoyced greatly that I found of thy Children walking in Truth , as we have received a Commandment from the Father † † 2 Job . 1 , 2 , 4. . Those things which are revealed belong unto Vs , and to our Children for Ever * * Deu. 29.29 . .

Fath.

Now Sir I suppose we are at an end .

Min.

NO no , the great work is yet behind .

Fath.

A great Work behind STILL ! what is That , I wonder ?

Min.

It 's PRAYER Parent ! Prayer for a Blessing . PRAYER ! for a Blessing upon [ Instruction ] by Doctrin and Example : and upon [ Correction , ] by Word and Rod: that Education may end in Salvation . N B , Let Prayer and Endeavour be linked together . He that Prayes , and not Endeavours , mocks God . He that Endeavours , and not Prayes , mocks himself . Prayer is to be performed with much Frequency , Fervency , and Solemnity . You are to be very Serious when by instruction and correction , you speak to a Child : how much more Serious and Solemn , when by prayer you speak to God . Thus pray ; FOR them , and WITH them .

First . Pray , For children . FOR them . ] Lift up prayer , as for children that stick in the Birth : when there is not strength to bring forth † † 2 Kin. 19.3 , 4. Lift up thy hands for the life of thy young children * * Lam. 2.19 . . Pray , For them , as if they were at point of Death . Pray , For them , as if they were at brink of Hell . Pray , For them , as if they were possessed with the DEVIL . e g. Master , I Beseech thee look upon my Son , for he is my Onely child . And lo a spirit taketh him , and he suddenly cryeth out † † Luk. 9.38 , 39. . And oft-times it hath cast him into the Fire , and into the Waters to destroy him * * Mar. 9.22 The poor mans prayer improved . . Improve this thus . LORD have mercy on my child ! an evil spirit is in him , and he cries out Rudely , and Wickedly . And it oft casteth him into the Fire : of Fury , of Envie , of Lust . And into the Waters : of Sinfull Pleasures , of Drunkennesse : the water of danger of Drowning , and Damning . And I brought him to thy Disciples , and they could not cure him † † Mat. 15.16 . . So you , q d , I have brought him to the Sermon , and to such a Disciple to Document him , reprove , convince , convert and recover him : and Still he lies at the Point of death : LORD come down ere my child die * * Job . 4.49 . . Help from Heaven is the Point , parents must Come to , and Prevail for : or their children go down to Hell .

¶ And to encourage you , Ten Con. Consider how Prevalent , prayer hath Been : and what great things it hath Done . e g. ¶ 1 ) Prayer hath made the Sun and Moon , to Stand still † † Jos. 10.12 . ¶ 2 ) It hath made the Sun go Backward * * 2 K. 20.10 . . ¶ 3 ) hath fetched Fire , from Heaven † † 1 Kin. 18.36 , 37 , 38. . ¶ 4 ) hath fetched Water , from Heaven * * Jam. 5.18 . ¶ 5 ) hath fetched a Soul , from Heaven † † Act. 9.40 . . ¶ 6 ) hath fetched an ANGEL , from Heaven * * Jud. 13.8 . ¶ 7 ) It hath fetched GOD , from Heaven † † Psal. 18.6 , 9. . ¶ 8 ) It hath fetched a Person , out of Prison : who was Guarded , and Chained , and shut in with an Iron Gate * * Act. 12.4 , 5 , 6 , 10. . ¶ 9 ) It hath helped a Soul , out of a Hell upon earth : even out of All trouble † † Psal. 116.3 , 4 , 8. . ¶ 10 ) It hath held Gods Hands from destroying * * Exo. 32.10 . : and hath prevailed with God for Special blessing † † Gen. 32.28 . . As a Prince had Jacob power with God , and prevailed . He kneeled down Jacob , and rose up Israel . A Divine Dignity . He took his brother by the heel in the Womb , and by his strength he had power with GOD : yea he had power over the ANGEL and prevailed . Even the Lord God of Hosts , the Lord is his Memorial * * Ho. 12.3 , 4 , 5. . Godlinesse is a Mystery : there is no trade like Beggery . Carnal beggery at Mans door is a Poor trade : but spiritual beggery at GOD's gate is a Rich trade . A rich Trade . A praying Christian is like a Courtier : who gets more by One suit in Season ; Simile than a toyling Trades man gets in 20 years . A little of God's Gold got by prayer , is worth more than a Great many Guinys . ¶ PRAY then with All perseverance , lest you play the Hypocrites part . Of him , Job gives you a Character in a Quaere : viz , Will he alwayes call upon God ? † † Job 27.10 . NOT He. God shall hear from him in Hell * * Lu. 16.24 . And it may be ( first ) in the hour of Death . He will cry when God kills him † † Ps. 78.34 Simile . : like the Swine , when the Knife is at his throat . It was a sad Argument , that Atheist used in his [ one prayer ] at Sea in a Tempest : when he told God plainly [ He was no common begger , Heylyn 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , p 376. had never troubled him with prayer before , & if he would but hear him that time , he would never trouble him again . ] This argument which he thought to be two-fold For him , he little thought to be ten thousand-fold Against him .

Fath.

How oft in a day had I best to pray , that I may persevere ?

Min.

As to your Time and Times in a Day for private prayer , ] if you will take my Counsel , follow David's Example : viz , Times for private prayer . Three times a day : Evening and Morning , and at Noon will I pray † † Ps. 55.17 . . And Daniel's example : he kneeled upon his knees Three times a Day , and prayed * * Dan. 6.10 . And for a Type of our looking to Jesus in prayer , his windows shall stand open towards Jerusalem , though Death come in at them , and carry him into the Lions Den. Daniel will Pray though he go into the Lions Den for it . Some will not Pray , Some do as Dives did : Perish first , and then Pray . though they go into the Dungeon of Hell for it . And though Daniel's prayer did not keep him Out of the lions den , it kept him In the lions den : which was to God a greater Glory , and to Daniel a greater Mercy , and to his enemies a greater Misery , than if he had Never come there . It was a Perilous time for Prayer . Daniel's safety seems to lay in laying a Bed , and laying prayer Down till the 30 Dog-dayes be out † † Dan. 6.7 , Daniels safe danger . . N B. In the most Perilous time for Prayer , then it is most Safe to be in that Peril of prayer . The danger layes in the Neglect of prayer : take heed of That . I have read of a Witch who much envied a godly man : Of the Witch . and sent her Imps oft times to destroy him . But they usually returned with this answer [ We cannot come at him , for he constantly prayes to God . ] At length he ( being in Hast ) went out one morning without prayer . And that day they did him a greater mischief than Daniel's Devils did him in the Lions Den : viz , brake some of his Bones . This the Witch confessed when imprisoned . Mr Hast . Remember this that morning [ Mr Hast ] is so great a Husband , as to call you out before you have been in your Closet .

First worship God : he that forgets to Pray :

Bids not himself , Good Morrow , nor Good Day .

Fath.

It would make a man afraid . But I believe many go out in the morning without prayer , and come Safe home at night too .

Min.

NO wonder . Them condemned Prisoners that lay at quiet in Fetters , Allusion . why should the Keeper of New-Gate hurt ? he knows they will be Hanged when it 's the Kings pleasure to appoint the Execution Day . But if one to his great Damage do break away : WO be to him , if he can come at him . God is not for speedy execution . And what cares Satan for breaking mens Bones , who are Subject to his Service . No , let them go whole-Footed , and whole-Handed to Hell . But if one break Prison , for liberty to serve God : OUT comes the roaring Lion with a Hue and Cry from Hell : to devour Him , if he may .

Second . Pray , With children . Pray , WITH them , in your Family . ] It 's to poor purpose for Parents to pray , For children , and not With them . And for Masters to pray , For servants , and not With them . Sir , you are Master of a Family . Set up the Worship of God in your Family , or expect the Wrath of God to be rained down upon your Family † † Jer. 10.25 . : Fire and Brimstone and an Horrible tempest * * Psal. 11.6 . But — what causes your Countenance to change ?

Fath.

I am frighted with fearfull words .

Min.

This countenance is a Character of a guilty Conscience . No wonder , if you are Frighted . It 's more Dreadfull to stand before the Drawn Sword of God's mouth without Shelter : than to stand naked before Cannon Shot .

Fath.

I desire direction for Family duty .

Min.

First . As to Time , and Times , Direct . 1. Times for Family prayer . when and how Oft. ] I affirm , that you are to perform this duty of prayer , In and With your family . Twice in a day : viz , Morning , and Evening . And this without Fail , except in a case of Necessity , which hath no Law . And the Lord spake unto Moses , saying , Command the children of Israel , and say unto them . MY offering , and MY bread for MY sacrifices , made by sire for a sweet savour unto ME , shall ye observe to offer unto ME in their Due season † † Nu. 28.1 . . Day by Day , Morning and Even , continally * * Exo. 29.38 , 39. . Though this be out of use as Ceremonial ( and so Practical ) it 's not out of use as Doctrinal , and directive to Gospel duty . Gospel duty contained in One of Gods Two Testaments , Gospel duty Great . New or Old : is a greater Sum then many Gospelers imagine . Masters give unto your Servants that which is Just , and Equal , knowing that ye also have a Master in Heaven . Continue in prayer † † Col. 4.1 , 2 : i e , For them , and With them . Note these Phrases , Cornelius prayed to God alway * * Act. 10.2 . . Pray without ceasing † † 1 Thes. 5.17 . . Thou shalt eat bread at my table continually * * 2 Sa. 9.7 . . Was Mephibosheth such a Cormorant , as to eat bread at David's table Day and Night ? is a man to do Nothing but Pray , as if he was an Angel who hath no earthly trade to follow ? No : the Sense of these Sayings [ Alway , Direct. 2. without Ceasing , Continually ] is , Do it Daily , at Set Times . ¶ 2 ) Choose the Fittest , and Best part of these times : i e , Early in the morning , and Early in the evening . Then are you like to be Best disposed : and your Service Best accepted : They that seek me early shall find me † † Pro. 8.17 . Direct. 3. . ¶ 3 ) Choose the fittest Place . Christ commends a close Closet to a Christan , as a fit place , for private prayer * * Mat. 6.6 . . Such a place is also fittest for a Family , which is freest from noise . Distracting thoughts will come in too Soon , though they be not sent in by Sounds , and caused by Clamours abroad . Direct. 4. ¶ 4 ) Be not hindered by Trifles , that is hatefull to God . He that will not go to Heaven till there be nothing in the Way , is Never like to come there . Direct. 5. ¶ 5 ) Lay all businesse By , during the Time of the duty . Order your Fire to be freed from that evil kind of Fore-cast , of placing some Vessel upon it , to be Stirred , or Tended upon , and took Off in prayer . Cursed fore cast . Some fore-cast is as good as Work : but this is worse than Nought . ¶ 6 ) Gather all your Family together , Direct. 6. to prayer . Gather the people together , Men , and Women , and Children , and thy Stranger that is within thy gates , that they may Hear , and Learn , and Fear the Lord † † Deu. 31.12 . . All Judah stood before the Lord , with their Little-ones , their Wives , and their Children * * 2 Chro. 20.13 . . Both Young men and Maidens , Old men , and Children , let them Praise the name of the Lord † † Psal. 148.12 , 13. Direct. 7. . ¶ 7 ) And , Far be it from you for Ever , to separate your children from Gods Service , as some do : who for a peaceable preparation for prayer , Pack their children to Bed , at 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 years of age : with such a Salvo ( forsooth ) They will Cry , or Sleep , or Something , and disquiet in duty . Strange peace ! is This the way to train up a child in the way he should go ? is This the way to bring Up in the Nurture and admonition of the Lord ? If they Cry , or Sleep , it 's the Parents fault . Late prayer , or some disorder , is the Matter . Serve GOD , and the Soul ; before you serve the Body . Go to prayer before Supper . And make a Law , viz , They that Cry , shall be Whipt , and they that Sleep , shall go Supperlesse to Bed . And do not drive your children away before the Duty , Odious Order . as if they were Dogs : and leave your Dogs in their room , as if they were Christians ( as some do ) Both which are abominations . I have heard of a Youth , who was Converted by an expression in prayer . It was because he heard it . If he had been Packed to Bed that night before Prayer , to the prevention of his conversion ; doubtlesse it had pleased the Devil to Purpose . Direct . 8 ¶ 8 ) Take heed of praying To persons , Cauttion instead of praying For them : i e , by affected Phrases , and tinkling Tones . Hatefull is that prayer to GOD , which is devised , formed , and phrased to please Man . And No better are the Prayers of some persons . The Devil is such a Chymist , he can extract evil out of Good : and Poyson a person with his Own Prayers : by puffing him up with Pride in them . Direct . 9 ¶ 9 ) Precede Prayer , with the Word . The word and prayer , are put together * * 1 Tim. 4.5 . . Read a Chapter before Prayer . And speak something to your Family , from what you read . Direct . 10 ¶ 10 ) And let me commend the Annual reading over the Bible in a Family , for a good Custom : which may be thus performed . There is in the O T , Chapters 779. ] Psalms 150. ] Chapters and Psalms 929. ] In the N T , Chapters 260. ] In both O T , and N T , Chapters 1039. ] In both O T , and N T , Chapters and Psalms in all 1189. ] There is in a Year 365 Dayes . In Bissextile , A Rule to read the Bible . or Leap-Year 366. Read 3 Chapters a Day : and read so many Psalms a Day ( when you are at them ) as to read them all in 20 Dayes in Bissextile , and in 19 Dayes in another Year : this reads the Bible through in a Year , except One Chapter , which is easily added to the last dayes Task . Or , if you have Bentley's Bible , it hath 375 Leaves . If you read one leafe a Day , this does it , except 9 leaves in Bissextile , and 10 leaves in another Year : which is not one leaf a Month more than one a Day . In a word , one quarter of an hour in 24 hours ( with a ready Reader ) reads the Blessed Bible in a Year . And which of us does not trifle away , Ten Times more Time than so . Unworthy is that Person of the Name ( and far from the Nature ) of a Christians : who thinks SO little time too Much to spend in Reading , God's Precious , Pure , Blessed Word . Thus far of Family Duty .

Fath.

But hear me before you proceed any farther . I am unfit for Family Duty , because of my weaknesse to perform it .

Min.

If you know what you say , and be as Willing as Weak , it is well : for then you will venture on your Duty , and trust to Gods Stregth , which will carry you through what Ever he calls you to . Sufficient for satisfaction is that One Promise : as thy Dayes , So shall thy Strength be † † Deu. 33.25 . Let the weak ( believe and ) say I am Strong * * Joel 3.10 But tell me true , is there not somewhat else at bottom ?

Fath.

Truly there is : I am ashamed to pray in my Family , among my Servants .

Min.

Now you say Something , though worse than Nothing . The former was Weaknesse , this is Wickednesse . Ashamed ! to speak to GOD ! to serve GOD ! to be like GOD ! what ashamed of GOD ! OH dreadfull ! read this Text and Tremble . Whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words , of him shall the Son of man be ashamed when he cometh in the Glory of his Father † † Mar. 8.38 . According to Christs glory , will the shame of such be : i e , Infinite . To see what a glorious Person is ashamed to Own them . To see what a Master they have been ashamed to Serve . To see shamefull Spewing upon their Glory * * Hab. 2.16 . Shame is the punishment prepared for Christs implacable enemies : HIS enemies will I cloath with Shame † † Psal. 132.18 . It s like clothes (1) They are Visible : so is Shame . Simile . (2) Unseparable while the Person is visible : Dissimile . so is Shame . It 's unlike clothes , they Cover nakednesse : shame Discovers it for ever . What shall I say ? if Shame be your Sin : take heed Shame be not your Sorrow . The Sin of shame , and the Sorrow of shame , are Both unspeakable . It 's written of Ajax , the great Grecian warriour , Ajax's dying saying of Shame . that he Died with Shame , and cryed [ No death like it . ] And Christs enemies , who are ashamed of him ( at last ) are like to cry [ No damnation like it . ¶ Sir I must tell you ( though you deferve not to be told ) that you are ashamed of your Glory . Grace makes a man glorious Within , and godlinesse makes a man glorious Without . Your Duty is your Dignity : Do it , and God will Dignifie you For it . Them that honour me , I will-honour * * 1 Sa. 2.30 . If any man serve me , him will my Father honour † † Joh. 12.26 . You count it an Honour to serve an Emperour : what is it then to be served By an Emperour ! yet all this is Drosse to the Service of God . To be a Servant of the great God , is a greater Honour than to be a Master of all the men in the world . And yet is not this All , for he that serves God him will God serve . God will shut the Door after his servant Noah * * Gen. 7.16 God will make the Bed † † Psal. 41.3 : and he will wash the Feet * * Jo. 13.5 . He that will wait on God , on him will God wait † † Isa. 30.18 . Even GOD , who is King of Christans , King of Nations , King of Kings , King of Heaven , and King of Glory . At whose Splendor , Angels Wonder : and each one covers his Face , with two wings , as with a double Vail * * Isa. 6.2 . .

Fath.

I will object no more against prayer .

Min.

Then I will direct more , For prayer .

¶ Pray with your children not only in your Family , but sometimes do You , Pray , with children in Closet . sometime let their Mother , sometime let both father and mother take their children into their Closet , and pray with them There . (1) In this way you may the more Freely confesse their bad Herts , and Faults to God : bewail their Condition , and speak to God for them . (2) This way will make it manifest to GOD that you are in good Earnest for their Good . (3) It will make it manifest to your Children that you have more than a common care of them , as in Common among your Servants : for it will shew them you have a Special respect for them . (4) And it will have a Good Effect upon them . If the heart of the fathers be to their children , the heart of the children will be to their fathers † † Mal. 4.6 . . Your Children will see the difference of this duty : and You will see it : for it Will work , and it will NOT be so well without it .

¶ Teach your children ( a right way ) to pray for themselves . To teach Children to pray . Teach them not to call God Father , in a state of Nature : as some parents do , who teach their children to Lie to the Lord , and speak Blasphemy against God . But , put them into Such a way to pray , as Such may use . viz , To pray for the life of their Parents . And for their Own life . And for mercies to maintain life : as meat , drink , clothing , protection from danger . And to pray for life for their Souls . For a Sight , and Sense of Sin . For a Saviour . For Pardon . For grace in the Heart . For a new Birth . That they may be the children of GOD. And be saved from the power of Sin , and SATAN , and Hell Fire . And may go to Heaven , and be happy both in Body and Soul , for Ever .

Fath.

If children be wicked , they may not pray : Object . for the praying of the wicked is Sin .

Min.

So is the Plowing of the wicked sin too * * Pro. 21.4 . By your argument the wicked must not Plough : i e , follow a Calling for a Living : but Beg , Steal , or Starve . (2) I grant , whether the wicked Plough , or Play , or Pray , they sin : yet they must Plogh , and Pray too , or do worse : for the Neglect is worse than the Act. If to pray is Sin , not to pray is a Worse sin . And of two evils , it 's best to choose the Least , and refuse the Greatest (3) The wicked are Created to pray † † Act. 17.26 , 27. (4) The wicked are Commanded to pray * * Act. 8.22 . (5) Prayer is put up ( and recorded ) for Wrath to be poured out upon them , because they Do not pray † † Jer. 10.25 . . (6) A precept for parents to teach children to Pray , is Certainly implyed in these expresses for Education . viz , Train up a child in the way he should go * * Pro. 22.6 . . ] Bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord † † Eph. 6.4 .

Fath.

I have head a Professor say [ To teach children to Pray , is the way to make them Hypocrites . ]

Min.

He is not so sure of That , as I am of This : viz , To let them go Prayerlesse , is the way to harden them for Hell Fire . OH what a Cutting Cry will this be One-day in Hell ! [ I am Damned because my parents did not teach me to Pray to be Saved . ] He that forbids the wicked to Pray , if he is not a wicked Man , yet his is a wicked Act. And whatsoever be his Condition , he is in that Point under Delusion . Let such men say what they will : I say , teach your children to Pray . And again I say , Do it : if in Dooms-day God do Blame you for it : Caution . Black Art . I will be Bound to bear it . ¶ But , Let not your children learn that Black Art of boldnesse by prayer : viz , To sin the more securely . Like that Religious Beast , I have paid my Vows , therefore came I forth to meet thee : come let us take our Fill of love * * Pro. 7.14 , 15 , 18. Mr Tho Shephard . . Or like that London Monster , who haunted Taverns , Theatres , Whore-houses , all day : but Durst not go out in the morning without prayer : and Then so bold , he durst bid the Devil do his Worst . Or like such who serve God on the Sabbath day , for a Licence to live licentiously all the Week after . For if the Sacrifice of the wicked be Sin , how much more when he brings it with a wicked mind † † Pro. 21.27 . Procure prayer . .

¶ Last . Procure the prayers of Praying Persons for your children ( as much as may be ) and esteem of such Persons , as Precious . Had I an opportunity of Preaching to all the praying persons in England at Once : I would exhort and beseech them All in general , and Every One in particular : to pray for ALL the children of the children of God . Some have Observed , and Asserted , [ That the children of Many Prayers do Seldom miscarry . ] So much concerning Prayer . I shall come to a conclusion with Ten ( considerable ) Corollaries , Te Corol. to quicken you to your Whole Duty , contained in this Conference .

First . 1. Coroll . Fathers Name 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Ab. The very Name of a father may be a Motive to duty . The Hebrew word 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 A father ] comes of the Root 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 he willed ; desired ] of the fathers affection to his children , which doth Naturally descend to them , with desire after their welfare . If not Thus , a man deserves not the Name of a father . They who have been instruments to bring children into a State of Condemnation , and care not to bring them into a State of Salvation : are these Parents ! shall Paul travail in birth till Christ be formed in Christians ? * * Gal. 4.19 . and be so concerned as to wish himself accursed from Christ for his Kindred ? † † Rom. 9.3 . shall Ministers do their utmost to Save children ? shall the Devil do his utmost to Damn them ? and shall their own father that Begat them , and their mother that Bare them , carry it as if they care not whether they are brought forth for a Saviour or a Murderer ? and are these Parents ? Monstrum ! Horrendum ! NB. Neglect of duty to a Child , to humour an angry Wife , had like to cost Moses his Life : for , the Lord sought to Kill him * * Exo. 4.24 . Let carelesse parents have a Care , God do not kill them Quite . And let Parents hear themselves spoken to in these Texts . Keep this man , if by any means he be missing , then thy Life shall be for his Life † † I K. 20.39 If he Die in his iniquity , his Blood will I require at thy hand * * Ezek. 3.18 . They that are under Such words , abroad without Shelter , and do not hear it Thunder : are very Dull of hearing :

Second . The childs tears at it's Birth , Coroll . 2. Childs Tears . may he a Motive for parents , to Pity and Duty . These tears seem to Presage its Sorrow . The poor child seems to cry to see into what a Stormy Sea it is Lanched : in danger to be Swallowed up , Soul and Body at once . Or , to see upon what a Shore of trouble it's Landed : to wander in a wildernesse of Wo , among wild beasts of Prey . Yea so Cruel are the Devils Creatures , that poor children are in danger of their Death , before their Birth . Cruel cruelty . The cruel Claws of these wild Beasts ( sometimes ) tare the Young out of the Womb before they are Born * * Am. 1.13 . : and the Old out of the Tomb after they are Buried † † Ch. 2.1 . .

Third . Coroll . 3. Childs Dead state The dead condemned State , children are Born in : and are in till Born again . It is a Dead Life , between the first , and second Birth . One passing by the house of a Sinful Sluggard , said [ Here lies ( not lives ) Such a One. ] A natural life , is a kind of a Lifelesse , Worthlesse life . The old youngman A strange Epitaph . An old man converted a little before his Death , would have this Epitaph on his Tomb [ Here lies a very Old Man of 3 years old ] Barlaam being asked how old he was , said 45. ] Said the other , Thou seemest to be 70. ] Yea ( said Barlaam ) if you reckon ever since I was Born : but I do not Count the time I spent in Sin . ] Lay this Dead Life to Heart . Suppose you had a child condemned to Die : yet so as there remains a possibility to procure a Pardon . The execution hour is concealed in the Kings own breast . It may be the child hath Ten Dayes to live : it may be not Two Hours . How would you bestir you in Such Case ? how restlesse Night and Day till your poor childs Pardon is procured ? except Jehoram-like you were bereav'd of Bowels † † 2 Chron. 21.19 . , and had not the least Pity left in you . This is your childrens Case , if unconverted . As after the Sentence , a malefactor is a Dead man : so before the Second birth , a child is a Dead child : i e , Sentenced , and Condemned , to be Hanged , and Burned , and Racked in Hell . And peradventure you are driving on designs to procure Portions , and not Pardons . OH Miserable man ! to morrow may be thy Son , or thy Daughters Damning day . And if Once the secret set time be Out , the poor child is Haled away , into Endlesse Wo.

Fourth . Your condemned child , Coroll . 4. Supposed sad sense . is also to be supposed , under a Sad Sense of it's condemned condition . Suppose you should Act as if as Insensible of it , as a parent is of a childs Soul condemned state . And at your Return in the evening ( after all the trifling Turns you take in a day ) your poor child should Quaere with a Sad Countenance [ Father where have you Been to day ? ] Here and There , about This and That . [ OH Father ! what have you not been with the King to day ? and do not know but I may be Hanged to morrow . ] And as you sit Idleing , Sleeping , or Smoking in the house [ GOOD Lord ! father , will you sit Thus and let me be Hanged ! ] What a Cutting consideration is This ! OH how Common is it for children to be in a Soul-condemned condition ! and will parents ( who professe to believe it ) Pipe , and Pot , and Prate away their time , while their children stand on the brink of Everlasting Burnings ? will they take their Recreation while their children are under Condemnation , near that execution and End to perish for Ever ? the Plague of Pharoh is upon such parents hearts . WHAT Faith have such in Gods word ? what Life is in their faith ? the faith of DEVILS exceeds a Dead faith * * Jam. 2.19 . .

Fath.

It is very Sad to consider a child in such Case .

Min.

Very SAD ! in so saying , you say Nothing . It 's most Deplorable , and Lamentable : enough to make a mercifull man wish his head Waters , and his eyes a fountain of Tears : to weep Day and Night for children so Dismally miserable † † Jer. 9.1 . . And its matter of mourning to think how Few Tears fall into Gods Bottle upon this account .

Fift . Coroll. 5. The inhumanity , and cruelty of such carelesse parents . Cruelty . They are said to be more Savage than Sea-Monsters : for even They draw out the breast and give such to their Young * * Lam. 4.3 . : but these Men-Monsters are like the Ostriches in the wildernesse , with a 7-fold Similitude . (1) The Ostrich is between an unclean hatefull Bird and a Beast : hath part of Both , Ostrich defined . but No part of Man , as the Meraid hath . ] A sad Character for a father . (2) Faith outwardly with feathers † † Job 39.13 . ] So is a foul Pharisaical father . (3) She is Proud . ] What time she lifteth up her self on High , she Scorneth the Horse and his Rider * * Ver. 18. . (4) She is Foolish : ] because God hath deprived her of wisdom † † Ver. 17. . In danger she hides her Head : and then thinks No body sees Her : because She sees no body . Man thinks he is Safe because he sees not God . Man Cannot see , he Will not see , and then sayes , God Shall not see * * Psal. 94.7 . . (5) She is forgetfull of the great concern . ] She leaveth her egges in the earth , and forgetteth that the foot may Crush them , or that the wild beast may Break them † † Job 39.14 15. . (6) She is without natural affection . ] She is hardened against her young ones , as though they were not hers * * Ver. 16. . (7) She is of strange strong Digestion : eats Old Iron . ] So such Savage men can Swallow such sayings of God , as would Tare the very Heart-strings of a tender Heart in sunder . These are 7 Sad Cursed Characters , of carelesse parents . King Herods cruelty to the children in Bethlehem ( 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 the males † † Mat. 2.16 Augustus Caesar's saying . ) founded this phrase [ Better be Herods Swine than his Son ] for some say his Own was slain in that Storm . The cruelty of our Ostrich-like fathers may found this phrase , [ Better be such a mans Swine than his Son , who cares no more for this sons Soul than if he was a Swine . Crates wish . ] Crates wished himself on the top of the highest Mountain in All the World : to cry out against Parents , who are carelesse of their childrens Souls . The beasts of the field that manifest love to their Young , and mourn if they are Lost : may rise up in judgment , and Condemn these men .

Sixt. Coroll . 6. Prodigious effect of neglect . The monstrous prodigious fruit and effect of Parental neglect , and Omission of Education . viz , The universal vanity of Youth : and base brutishnesse of Boys . Their epidemical disobedience to GOD : by Cursing , Swearing , Lying , Stealing , prophaning the Sabbath : the Day designed by them for Satans Service . Their disrespect to Superiours . Their disobedience to Parents . And to Mr , Mrs , and Dame : of which there is such an universal Out-cry in the Kingdom , as of some pestilent Plague and Judgment . ALL layes Principally at Parents doors . For if they would exercise that Authority over them which God hath Given them ; and perform their Part according to Gods Precept ; it would work a great Cure among the contagious Scabs , Wounds , Bruises , Sores ; which have over spread the Body of Great Britain from the Sole of the Foot to the Head * * Isa. 1.6 . . But this neglect of parental duty , is like the Setting open of Sluces , and Flood-gates , to overflow the Land with a flood of Filthinesse , and Prophanenesse . And to make children Famous for ( nothing but ) Wickednesse . To be children of Belial † † 1 Kin. 21.13 . , Cursed children * * 2 Pet. 2.14 . , children of Perdition † † Joh. 17.12 . , children of the DEVIL * * Act. 13.10 . , and children of Hell , as the Scripture calls them † † Mat. 23.15 . . And parents do not only Lay the reins in their necks , to let them run Headlong to Hell : but also do Lead them on to that Lake , by learning them to Sin by their example . viz , To Swear , Lie , Curse , Scoffe at the godly . It 's probable the parents taught the children to Mock , which Bares tare for mocking , as an Embleme of the Torment of Hell for mockers . N B. Wicked parents will teach their children to do good men Hurt , rather than to do themselves Good . Herodias would teach her Dancing-daughter to ask Herod for John Baptists Head , rather than for Half the Kingdom * * Mar. 6.23 , 24. . N B. For parents to bring Forth in sin , and to bring Up in sin , is a Sure way to bring Down into sorrow : both themselves and their children together , for Ever , and Ever .

Seventh . Coroll . 7. Deaths small distance . Consider what a Small distance Death may be from ( or how near to ) your childrens Heart , or your Own . By reason of the uncertainty and shortnesse of Life , and certainty and ( sometime ) suddennesse of Death : a Man or Child may be within a Step of death , and not have a Thought of death . Or else think it as far Off as the East is from the West . (1) God may smite with a Secret Sudden Stroke . (2) One may die a Natural , and Sudden death : of which no Reason can be Rendered . (3) One may die Casually , and Suddenly , in Any place in the land of the Living e g. If one be at Sea , or on the Thames in a Boat , there is but a Board between him and Death : Life within , and Death without : and but a Thin Board between . If at Land : but a Shoe-Sole between the Bottom of the Foot , and the Top of the Grave . If in any Street or Lane in London : a Tile , or Brick may Fall , and Kill . If in the Field , or Countrey in a journey : a Thief may murder . If in a Wood : the same Death : or a wild Beast may Devour . That which hath Life , may take away Life . That which is Dead , may be a mans Death . The fall of Earth , or Stone , or Timber : or a mans fall into Water : or off his Horse , or House , a Hundred ways to fall Out of the world . What is your Life ? it is even a Vapour that appeareth for a Little time , and then vanisheth away † † Jam. 4.14 . . What is Man ? * * Psal. 8.4 . q d , A little bit of breathing Clay , a little bit of creeping Clay , a little bit of living Clay , a little bit of dying Clay . And yet what a Do will a Proud , Painting Jezebel make with a bit of Dirt : which the Dogs are about to eat up for an Excrement † † 2 Kin. 9.30 , 36. . O Earth , earth , earth ! hear the word of the Lord * * Jer. 22.29 . . What is that ? DVST thou art , and unto Dust shalt thou return † † Gen. 3.19 .

Brave Madam Silk-worm ! O thou Clod of clay ! Mayest be to Morrow for the Worms a Prey .

Eight . Coroll . 8. Dolorous Death . Your childs condemned State spoken of in the third Corollary , peradventure is by this time forgot . Suppose ( by your neglect ) your child Dies in this condemned condition . And in Dying ( to sting your Conscience ) hath its eyes Opened , to see the mouth of the bottomlesse pit stand Open , to swallow it Down into the Dungeon of Hell . At which sight it Shrikes out , O Father , Mother ! did you Know me to be in this condition and not Tell me of it , and labour to get me Out of it ? did you Know me to be born in Sin , to live Cursed , unconverted , and Condemned ; and not Acquaint me with it ? did you professe to beleeve the Necessity of a new Birth , a new Heart , a new Life : and let me Live and Die without it ? was you Willing I should go to Hell that you would not Tell me of it , except in such a Sleighty way as begot disbeliefe of the Truth of it , and of the Verity of my misery . Cursed be the Day that Ever such a father Begat me , and that Ever such a mother Bare me . And then dies Roaring , as if already in Hell . Can you give no guesse at This , what This will be to you ? when it 's your Case , none need to Tell you what it is . Then you may weep with Rachel , who refused to be comforted for her children , because they Were not * * Jer. 31.15 . . And with Isaiah , who said , Look away from me , I will weep Bitterly , labour Not to comfort me † † Isa. 22.4 . Solon's Sorrow . . And with Solon , to whom said one [ Why do you weep ? it will do no good now . ] Alas said he , I therefore weep because weeping will do on good . ] And with the woman who was so busied in saving her Stuffe , that her child in the Cradle was forgot , till the house ( on fire ) was Down , and the child Dead : and then she remembred it Roaring [ O my child , my child ! ] And with Jacob when he supposed Joseph was torn in pieces : I will go down into the grave unto my son mourning , thus his father wept for him * * Gen. 37.35 . . If Joseph had been torn in pieces with a wild beast as Jacob supposed ; what had that been to a childs being torn by Devils in Hell to all Eternity .

Ninth . Coroll . 9. Dooms-day Dolour . Consider the Dolefull out-cries of Damned children in Dooms-day , against their carnal carelesse prophane Parents : who have Lamentably lost Themselves , and their Children too . When poor children with Pale faces ( yet as Flames ) and hearts full Horrour , shall ROAR out [ O Father , Mother ! what have You done ! I must Burn for ever in Hell , for the Sins you learned me to live in by your Sinfull example . The oaths I have Sworn will Cursing of men , God will Curse me for ever . You set me to Work , and let me Play on the Sabbath day . I had no rest from Sin , and now I must have no rest from Sorrow : but Roar for ever . Now Gods wrath will be Poured out upon me because I did not Pray . To pray you would Never learn me , except to say the Creed , the 10 Commands , and the Lords Prayer : by which you learned me to Lie , for which I must Lay in the Lake † † Rev. 21.8 . . You learned me to neglect Salvation : now I have Lost it . You learned me to Mock the godly : now God Mocks at my misery . You led me after our Blind Guide , who called us Christians , and Gods children : now we are in the ditch of Damnation together * * Mat. 15.14 . . You let me Game away my time : by which I have lost Heaven , and won Hell . I would have heard good Sermons , which I heard folks Commend , and say , Sinners were Saved by them : but you would not Suffer me , but Shut up the Kingdom of Heaven against me . OH that Dreadfull Judge ! will presently passe the Sentence , Depart ye cursed into everlasting fire † † Mat. 25.41 . : and then we shall be a Hell in Hell , to each other for Ever . It will be a Hell to me , to behold You in Hell : you Cursed father , and murderer . And it will be a Hell to you , to hear me Howl and Roar : and Curse you to your Face , for Ever . And a Thousand such Dolorous ditties : Ten thousand times more Terrible than tongue can tell . Sir , though it be not your Portion to perish with a child lost by your neglect ; yet is it nothing Now to think , that when you are in Heaven , you shall have a child to Howl in Hell , and curse you there for Ever ? or will it be Nothing to you in the judgment Day ? seeing ( as the Scripture signifies ) some Saints shall then be subject to Shame , Sorrow , and saved so as by Fire * * 1 Cor. 3.15 . .

Last . Coroll . 10. Sweet fruit of good Successe . Consider the comfortable joyfull effect , and Sweet fruit of such godly Education as ends in Salvation : and that both in Time , and in Eternity . It may be a comfort to you in Any condition on Earth , to think your children are Heaven-born : Pardoned , Justified , Sanctified , and shall be Glorified . If they should be Poor , yet they are Rich: and will be the Richer for their Poverty to all Eternity . Whatsoever they Do , or Suffer , or Lose for God : he will Richly reward them . Whosoever is their Enemy , God will be their Friend , and will Never fail them . If they be Sick , or in any Adversity : Still they are Happy . If You be sick , or in any trouble , they will Pray for you . If they Die while you live , you may be more comforted in their Death , than a man can be in a childs Birth , or wicked Life . If You die while they live , you may Sweetly say with Jacob , Behold , I die , but GOD shall be with you † † Gen. 48.21 . . In the Judgment day ! how Sweet to stand at Jesus Right hand ! saying , Behold , I , and the Children which God hath given me * * Heb. 2.13 . : none Lost by my negligence : all Saved by my diligence . How sweet to be the Subjects of this Golden Sentence , Come ye blessed of my Father ! O festus dies . while others are the Subjects of that most Direfull Doom , Depart ye Cursed . How Sweet to be for Ever in Heaven , to Trumpet out Eternal Praises , and Sing Halelujahs for joy of Heart ! while others howl for Sorrow of Heart in Hell . How Sweet for you and your children , to be a Heaven in Heaven to each other ! while others shall be a Hell in Hell to each other for Ever . Yea , how Sweet may this dayes Dialogue ( under this tree ) be to you in Eternity ! if it may Issue in what I aim at . And what shall I more Say ? shall I Yet plead with you for pity to your Own Children ? if I was pleading with you for some small kindnesse for my self , methinks I should prevail . If I was pleading with you to pity an Enemy , who is ready to Perish for want of a Penny , me thinks I should prevail . And shall I not prevail with you to pity your own poor perishing Children ? what is your Reply .

Fath.

What shall one do who hath long neglected his duty to his Children , till they be hardened in Sin ?

Min.

Bewail it to GOD. Implore his Pardon . Confesse it to your Children : with Sorrow that you are so far in their Debt . Set upon your work with Shame . If they reject your Counsel , bear it patiently . Lay their Disobedience at your Own Door . And follow God with Petition , and your children with Instruction : till ( if possible ) you Prevail , for their Conversion .

Fath.

I hope I shall set about this Solemn Work of so Great Concern . God grant I may , for I am much troubled at my long neglect .

Min.

I perceive , what I have said shakes your Head : but GOD knowes whether it shakes your Heart . However I hope you will not spend your time in talking to your children of Church-Steeples , and Brick Chimneys by the way back . Conclusive Caution . But , Take heed you do not deceive Me , nor your Self , nor your Children : God is not Mocked . If you do indeed perform your part , Parent-like to the Purpose : then may these children here Present , and the children which are yet Unborn , arise up and Call you Blessed . To which more might be added , but it 's Time to Retire : for I see the Sun is walked far into the West . And so Sir , I shall take my Leave , of You and Yours : wishing you all Well , for this World , and for that which is to Come .

Fath.

Sir , we wish You and Yours , the like Welfare . And we do give GOD , and You thanks , for this Godly Advice .

ΤΕΛΟΣ .

POST-SCRIPT .

IN the Epistle , I direct to know Emphatical words by Capital letters : and speak of beginning them words only with Capitals ( except such words as are alway so to begin ) and I did intend to do so . But after the Epistle was composed by the Printer , I was disposed to begin many Substantial words also with Capitals , which are not Emphatical . These are in the first 6 sheets containing Instruction and Correction , and the An to Ob against Correction : especially in the first 3 sheets , to the end of Instruction by Doct. These words are begun with Capitals , that Men , Women , and Children may take the more notice of such words and things , which are to them of so great concern . And whether you call it a Benefit or a Burden , it is only for the first Edition : for in the next ( Deo juvante ) I shall take them out , reduce it to the order of the Epistle , and so make it more Euphonical and Gratefull for the Readers pleasure .

A SECOND DIALOGUE OF THE DECALOGUE : OR A DISCOURSE Concerning the Ten COMMANDMENTS .

The Second Part.

I have written to him the Great things of my Law , but they were counted as a Strange thing . Hos. 8.12 . The Princes digged the well , the Nobles of the People digged it by the direction of their Law-giver . Nu. 21.18 . The Lord is our Law-giver . Isa. 33.22 . The Law of the Lord is perfect converting the Soul . Ps. 19.7 . The Isles shall wait for his Law . Isa. 42.4 . He will magnifie the Law and make it Honourable . Isa. 42.21 . We have heard out of the Law that Christ abideth for Ever . Joh. 12.34 . Do we then make void the Law through Faith ? GOD forbid ! yea we establish the Law . Rom. 3.31 .

LONDON , Printed by J. A. for the Author , 1681.

The General Contents of the Second Dialogue . TWelve Notes on the Ten Commandments . Ten Ob against the Second Note Answ. Of Thunder , breaking , & new making the Tables . The Law a rule of Life for all men . How we are under the Law as the Jews were , in Seven Particulars . How we are Not under the Law as the Jews were , in Seven Particulars . An account of the C L. An account of the Judicial Law . How the M L is abolished , and how not . How the C L is abolished , and how not . How the Judicial Law is abolished , & how not . The whole duty of man in Ten Words . Antinomian aversenesse to the Law . Five Reasons of slighting the Law . Of preaching the Doct of the gospel only . Four Reasons of such preaching . Sad effects of not preaching the Law . Pride of some Preachers , their Wives , Children . Pride or sin in such prodigiously perilous . Six sorts of Simple Hearers . Many in Profession like to be lost at London . Conclusion by way of Exhortation .

Note these few abbreviations , M L Moral Law . C L Ceremonial Law . C W Covenant of works . C G Covenant of grace .

A SECOND DIALOGUE OF THE DECALOGUE . Fath.

GOd Save you Sir . Since our Late Conference , I have desired some Discourse from you of the Decalogue : for I am much perswaded there is more in it than many Imagine . When you delivered me the Sixt Document , viz , To acquaint my Children with the Decalogue , I desired to hear that Lesson Enlarged : yet was loth to interrupt you : but now I come on purpose to desire you to give me some account of the Ten Commandments .

Min.

Sir , you are Welcome to me upon this account : for I had also a mind to enlarge that Sixt Lesson upon the Law , but was loth to be too tedious : and am glad of an opportunity to do it now . By the Title pages of old Books which lay open in Moor Fields , I perceive there are some Tracts on the Ten Commandments by way of Exposition : and so I shall not go that way to work : but shall give you 12 Usefull Notes upon the whole , to shew you ( in part ) what is contained in them . Between which Notes you may put in ( and after them all adde ) what Question you please .

First . 1 Note . The M L on Adam's Heart . The Moral Law , Decalogue , or Ten Commandments was engraven on Adam's heart , as a Primitive Perfect Law of Nature . Adam being created in God's Image , which consisteth in Holinesse and Righteousnesse , had the Law written in his Heart , the Sum of which is Holinesse and Righteousnesse . And Adam being capable of it , God entred into a C W with him which contained (1) A peremptory precept , [ Do this : ] (2) A conditional promise , [ If thou Do , thou shalt Live : ] (3) A conditional threat , [ If thou Do not , thou shalt Die. ] To keep this C W for Life , no man was ever able : except (1) Adam who brake it and ruined All mankind : and (2) Jesus the Second Adam , who by his obedience to it hath recovered all the Elect. But though no man can keep it , yet Every unbeleever is under it : and to Them it is a ministry of Condemnation † † 2 Cor. 3.9 .

¶ By the way N B. A new State . After the Fall there was a New Church State set up . Ceremonial Sacrifices for God's service Instituted . And man accepted with God upon a New account : viz , on Christ's account , who Substituted himself in mans stead to Die for him : by vertue of which Death , beleeving man hath Life and Favour with God . And that for 2000 years ( and more ) from the Fall to the delivery of the Law on Mount Sinai ; the Substance of their Religion was the Same , as after the Publick promulgation of the Law . (1) Instances of the use of Ceremonial Sacrifice we have in Abel * * Gen. 4.4 . , Noah † † Ch. 8.20 . Abram * * Ch. 15.9 . , and Job also † † Job 1.5 . , who was before the Law on Sinai , as is easily proved . THEN the master of a family was King to rule , Prophet to teach , Priest to offer sacrifices ( cut in pieces ) for the Sins of his family * * Gen. 15.10 . : so Now should masters Rule , Teach , and offer the Sacrifices of a broken , cut , Exo. 29.17 . contrite Heart in prayer for the Sins of their families † † Psal. 51.17 . . (2) And the M L of Nature did in part remain in the heart of man after the Fall : and God made a Farther manifestation of it to man : else the world was in a wofull wild posture for One 2000 years at least . A sottish conceit . To think the world was without Law till they had it from Sinai , is a ridiculous conceit : if So , for what was the world Drowned , and Sodom Burned ? for where no Law is , there is no Transgression † † Rom. 4.15 . . If no Law in the world , no Sin in the world : but untill the law Sin was in the world * * Ch. 5.13 . , q d , untill the law , the Law was in the world , for Sin is not imputed when there is no Law : i e , such Acts are not counted Sin if no Law to forbid them . I doubt Religious Persons knew the law Then , better than they do Now : since the promulgation both of Law and Gospel too .

Second . 2 Note . The M L given to a people in a C G. The Law delivered on Mount Sinai , with an audible voice as a Sermon from God himself : was given to a People under a C G. This covenant God made with Abraham , viz , To be a God to Him and his Seed † † Gen. 17.7 . ] And renewed it with Them , Behold the Blood of the Covenant which the Lord hath made with YOV * * EXO. 24.8 . The blood of the C W is a saying of a Strange Sound : except you mean the blood of the Breach of that covenant , i e , the blood of the Offender : which is Execution , not Salvation . I will commune with thee from above the Mercy Seat from between the two Cherubims of all things which I will give thee in commandment unto the children of Israel † † Exo. 25.22 . . The faces of the Cherubims looked toward the Mercy Seat * * Ver. 20. , to signifie the desire of Angels to look into this mystery of Grace and Life for man † † 1 Pet. 1.12 . , after God that cannot Lie had said Man must die . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . This covenant [ Verbally ] was made with all Abraham's seed Indefinitely : but [ Virtually and Efficaciously ] so as to secure life Eternally , it respected a Secret Distinction , and Vein of Election : for they are not all Israel which are of Israel * * Rom. 9.6 . , but the children of the Promise are counted for the Seed † † Ver. 8. . God is LORD of ALL * * Mat. 11.25 . , but to These he is a GOD : God is not the GOD of the Dead but of the Living † † Ch. 22.32 . They that did Beleeve were not under a C W , and Cured : but under a C G , and Blessed with faithfull Abraham * * Gal. 3.9 . . And the Covenant that was confirmed before of God in Christ , the Law which was 430 years after cannot disanull † † Ver. 17. . To our purpose is the Preface to the Ten commandments : viz , I am the Lord thy God : ] which cannot Be by a C W. It is not , Do this and I will be thy God : ] but I am thy God therefore Do this * * Deu. 5.15 .

Fath.

God saith , If ye keep my Covenant , Object . 1 then ye shall be a Peculiar treasure unto me † † Exo. 19.5 .

Min.

So Jesus saith , He that loveth me shall be loved of my Father * * Joh. 14.21 . . In such sayings God speaks as a Father to children to draw to Duty : q d , Do So , and I will Love thee . The childs love is not the Cause but the Effect , not the Root but the Fruit of the fathers love to the child : we love Him because he first loved Vs † † 1 Joh. 4.19 . . To a people under a C G the Law on Mount Sinai was delivered as on Mount Sion , in the hand of a Mediatour * * Gal. 3.19 . : without whom God had nothing to speak to man but Death . N B. From his Right hand ( i e , where Christ sitteth , and Then [ virtually ] sat ) went a fiery law , Heb 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 A fire of law ] For them , not Against them : and how Formidable and Fiery soever , yet it was a fruit of Gods love : yea he Loved the people † † Deu. 33.2 , 3. .

Fath.

Not against them say you ! Object . 2 Paul saith it was against them , and so took out of the way by Christ * * Col. 2.14 . .

Min.

He speaks of the C L which to disobey was death † † Lev. 23.29 , 30. . The M L as a C W , is against all men under it , as well since Christ's death as before . And as a C W , it was taken away Before Christ's death as well as Since , for them that beleeve . And as a rule of life it never was against any man since nor before . It was , and is against Sin : but it 's For man , if God be for him .

Fath.

You say the law on Mount Sinai was delivered as on Mount Sion : Object . 3 Paul opposeth them one to the other : and speaketh of one as Dreadfull , of the other as Comfortable * * Heb. 12.18 , 22. .

Min.

Paul sheweth what you See not : viz , that the ministry of the Gospel on Mount Sion , is attended with more terrour than the Law on Mount Sinai was . e g. Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God , 〈◊〉 * * Ver. 15. , lest there be any fornicatour or prophane person as Esau , &c † Ver. 16. , why so ? for ye are not come to the mount that might be touched , &c * * Ver. 18. , which was very terrible : but ye are come to Mount Sion , &c † † Ver. 22. , what then ? See that ye refuse not him that speaketh : for if they escaped not who refused him that spake on Earth , much more shall not we escape , if we turn away from him who speaketh from Heaven * * Ver. 25. . Whose voice then shook the Earth , but now he hath promised , saying , Yet once more I shake not the Earth onely but also Heaven † † Ver. 26. He that despised Moses law died without mercy : of how much Sorer punishment suppose ye shall he be thought worthy , who hath troden under foot the Son of God ? * * Heb. 10.28 , 29. The Gospel is glad tidings : it 's Season is a day of Salvation : but yet attended with a day of Vengeance for disobedience † † Isa. 61.2 . , without which what dread is in the Law ?

Fath.

Surely the Law was delivered to the Jews , Object . 4 as a C W.

Min.

The Ten Commandments contain the Matter and Words of the C W. And they were to acquaint Them ( and are to acquaint Us ) with the C W that All by Nature are Under : that men may know what it is , and not trust to Death for Life . The Jews had been so long in Egyptian darknesse , that Religion was almost rooted out of Heart and Life † † Jos. 24.14 . : and so needed to have a Rowsing Lecture read in their Ears . But that ever God did ( since mans fall ) deliver the Law as a C W for man to be Saved by it , is Quite besides the Book : contrary to the Gospel , a Weaknesse and a Shame for a man ( who hath a Bible in his house ) once to Imagine .

Fath.

God saith , Object . 5 Keep my Statutes , which if a man Do he shall live in them * * Lev. 18.5 . .

Min.

For one to think ( from any such Text ) that Ever man was saved by Works , savours of Grosse ignorance of the C W. This covenant requires a man to be as perfectly Righteous as Jesus himself was : and if a man Once sin , though he Never sin more , there is no More to be said : he can Never be saved by that covenant . If then Eternal life be in this Text intended † † Lev. 18.5 . , the law of Faith is included , by which a person must be justified to live Eternally . And then by Evangelical obedience to the Law he shall live , (1) Temporally ] for Godlinesse hath the promise of the life that now is * * 1 Tim. 4.8 . (2) Spiritually ] for the Righteous shall flourish † † Psal. 92.12 . , as the Body by it's Food : for God deals out his Heavenly bread in a way of Duty . But by defect in Duty , some die [ Temporally ] in Body * * 1 Cor. 11.30 . : and many die [ Spiritually ] in Soul , who do not die Eternally in both .

Fath.

That Israel were under a C W is hard to beat out of my Head . Object . 6

Min.

A covenant between God and man is not Made , except GOD require , and Man consent . (1) God did not Require : it is contrary to his purpose of Salvation by Grace : and if by Grace , then is it no more of Works † † Rom. 11.6 . , (2) Man did not Consent . If in saying , All that the Lord hath spoken we will do † † Exo. 19.8 . they counted to comply with a C W , they said they knew not what : nor are they Commended for it . But when they said to Moses , Speak thou with us and we will hear , but let not God speak with us lest we die † † Ch. 20.19 ; then said Moses Fear not * * Ver. 20. : and said God , They have Well said † † Den. 5.28 , i e , to desire a Mediatour : these are no signs of a C W. Nor did they Consent to a C W when they said [ Amen ] to the curses pronounced against him that confirmeth not all the words of this Law to do them † † Deu. 27.26 . : but did acquiesce in the pronunciation of the Curse for him to whom it did belong . Nor did Paul ( in saying , As many as are of the works of the Law are under the curse * * Gal. 3.10 . ) say , They were all so . Nor doth Moses ( in describing the righteousnesse of the Law , viz , The man which doth those things shall live by them * * Rom. 10 5. ) say , They were so to live : or that it was Possible for them . The man that Doth shall Live ] is q d , The man that emptieth the Ocean with a Spoon , shall go into the depth of it and not be Drowned : for , to fulfill the Law , and to empty the Sea , are Parallel impossibilities .

Fath.

But God speaks of a New Covenant Object . 7 † † Jer. 31.31 . , and this at Sinai is called Old * * Heb. 8.13 : so that it seems Not to be a C G as you call it : nor that they were saved Before Christs death as we are since .

Min.

There is some Circumstantial difference , (1) The Old ( as it 's called ) comprehended the Promise of Canaan , containing many Temporal blessings . (2) The Jews were by it Obliged to Ceremonial service . (3) Some few excepted , it was confined to the Jews only . (4) It was Sealed with the blood of Sacrifices , Typical of Christ to Come . These things being Transitory , it is said to wax Old and vanish away † † Heb. 8.13 . : yet the covenant is One and the Same in Substance . AT Christ's death , it was Sealed by his own blood [ Actively : ] Before , it was Sealed by his blood [ Virtually . ] Since Christ's death , it is Signified by the Sacrament of the Lords Supper , which is Permanent till Christ come : so was the Ceremonial Sacrifice till he came to Die : the blood of which signified Christ's blood Was to be shed , as well as the Element of Wine signifieth it Is shed . N B. Covenants are Certainly the Same , if they accord in these 3 Substantials : [ Subject , End , Condition . ] Jesus Christ as Head of the Elect , is the [ Subject : ] Salvation is the [ End ] Faith is the [ Condition ] of Both : and so is the way of Salvation the Same . Before Christ's death the Jews were said to be under a yoke they were not able to bear † † Act. 15.10 . : what then ? but we beleeve that by the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ , we shall be saved Even as they * * Ver. 11. Identity or the Samenesse of Salvation . We Jews even as they Gentiles : for Christ , and Salvation , and the Way to it are the Same : Jew and Gentile saved the Same way , Before and After Christs death . Before it , they were under the Gospel clouded with the Law . Since , we are under the Gospel more clearly dispensed . They that God taught saw it Then : no more see it Now : and from the Rest it is hid .

Fath.

If the law was not delivered as a C W what signified the dreadfull delivery of it with Thunder and Lightning , Object . 8 and breaking the Tables when Israel Sinned ?

Min.

God by delivering the Law on Mount Sinai at first with his own mouth , did signifie he had made a C W with Adam : and in him with all Men : and what he might justly require of men . The thunder signified the dreadfull effects of the breach of that Covenant . It 's being written on Tables , signified it was written on Adam's Heart : I will give thee Tables of stone and a Law which I have written † † Exo. 24.12 . : they were the work of God without Moses , i e , without a Mediatour . (2) The tables being broken when Israel sinned , signified , the C W was broken when Adam sinned : and was never to be made with Man more . God doth not say , Moses mend the Tables thou hast broken : but Hew thee two ( new Tables * * Ch. 34.1 . (3) The law written on the Tables a second time , signified , or was an Embleme of the law written on the Heart of Christians , according to the C G. (4) God by proclaiming his gracious name on Mount Sinai , and giving the law there the second time to Moses alone † † Ver. 3.5 , 6 , signified , he had made a C G with Christ for Christians : and had given the law by Christ , by Angels in the hand of a Mediatour . N B This M L thus written , not as a C W ; The Law the Rule . but as it is the law of Christ , IS a Christians rule of Life . The Saviour is the Law-giver , and Ruler * * Isa. 33.22 : the Decalogue is the Sum : it 's branched through the Bible , for a rule of righteousnesse , and Gospel obedience , for all Christians in all Nations , throughout all Generations .

Fath.

But some say , Object . 9 The law as written in the Bible , is not a Christians rule of life : but as it is written in the Heart : they act from a principle of Love , are led by the Spirit of God , and delight to do his Will.

Min.

That a true Christian hath the law written in his Heart , acts from a principle of Love , is led by the Spirit of God , delights to do his Will , is True : but [ the law as written in the Bible is not a Christians rule of life ] is not only False , but Prefixt to the Rest , makes all to be a piece of ridiculous Non-sense . Pestilent Opinion . This pestilent opinion hath 5 parts . (1) The law as written in the Bible is not a Christians rule of life . ] A. As the Gospel teacheth how to Beleeve , and is a rule of Faith : so the Law teacheth how to Live , and is a rule of Life . As the Gospel is an everlasting rule for Faith : so is the Law an everlasting rule for Life . As the Civil law is a rule of Civil life : so is Gods Divine law a rule of Godly life . Simile . The law is as a Touch-stone , Simile . to try if gold be Good . The law is as a Line , to shew what is Straight , and what is Crooked . Simile . A good work-man will have his Rule ready at his Back , to try his work . So let a Christian have the Law : not only in his Heart and Head , but also under his Eye in the Bible : that standing Rule , that Sure word , more to be regarded than what is spoken with an audible voice out of Heaven † † 2 Pet. 2.18 , 19. . The commandment is a Lamp , and the law is Light * * Pro. 6.23 . Simile . : the Sun is not more necessary by Day , nor the Moon by Night , nor a Candle in a Coal-pit , or dark Dungeon , than the Law : without which the world would be a Hell . Dr Luther . (2) They are ruled by the law written in their hearts . ] How shall we know whether these Persons pretences are pure ? To the Law , if they speak not according to this WORD , be they men or Devils or Angels , there is no Light in them : Heb 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 no morning ] Junius , nulla lucis scintilla , not a spark of light † † Isa. 8.20 . . N B. There is an Outward law written in the Bible ) and an Inward law written in a true Christians Heart : the Outward law is the rule of Life , not the Inward : for the outward is Perfect , the inward Imperfect . The outward law is to Rule the inward : and the inward is to be Ruled by the outward . That the law is written in the Heart that loves it not as written in the Bible , I utterly Deny : Apage . if the heart be not on the Law , the law is not on the Heart . (3) They are acted by a principle of love . ] As if a Person should professe to love his Prince beyond him who in All points punctually obeys his Princes laws : yet will not this person regard his Princes laws , for his Love ( forsooth ) must be his Supream Law . Whether this person have any love to his Prince or no , I will not determine : but this is certain , his Prince hath one Singular Self-conceited Subject : A piece of Pride . to whom he may say , Love me and love my law . They that love God love his law : as saith the man after Gods own heart : O how love I thy law ! * * Psal. 119.97 . there is NO more Lord-lovers than law-lovers . Some professe love who have none : some deny it who have it : how shall we know who loves Christ ? this critical Question Christ himself resolves , He that hath my commandments , and keepeth them , He it is that loveth me † † Joh. 14.21 . . (4) They are led by the Spirit of God . ] How shall a man know he is led by the Spirit of God , but by the Word of God ? i e , as it leads him according to the Word . Beleeve not every spirit , but try the spirits whether they are of God * * 1 Joh. 4.1 . . We must try the spirits by the Word and not the word by the spirits . (5) They delight to do the will of God . ] How shall a man know the Will of God but by the Word of God ? and how shall a man delight in the Will of God without delight in the Word of God ? if a man delight not in the will of God in his word for Direction , how shall he delight in the will of God in his rod for Correction ? e g , Suppose God WILL take away Health , Wealth , Wife , Child . If once persons are puffed up with Pride , they are soon filled with Swelling words of vanity † † 2 Pet. 2.18 .

Fath.

It is clear to me that the law as written in the Bible is a Christians rule of life : Q. is it a rule of life for a Carnal man too ?

Min.

The law is for a rule of Life to all men Living who have it : A Rule for All. Jesus himself was not excepted when under it * * Gal. 4.4 . . N B , Man is to be considered in a twofold State , precedent to a State of Grace . (1) In innocency . ] In this State the law as a C W , was mans rule Of life , and For life : so long as he Obeyed he lived . (2) In a Fallen state . ] The condition of the C W was such , that the Least sin Brake it : and brought man under the Curse of it . Before sin man was under the Blessing of the covenant : after sin man was under the Curse of the C W : and this is the Case of all Carnal men . In this State the M L is a rule of Moral Life . And the more exactly ( to his light ) a Moral man is ruled by it , the more he is to be Commended : though thereby he is not Justified . And it is ( in a Sense ) a rule , To life eternal : i e , as it is a School-master to direct to Christ to be Justified by Faith . And this it doth Occasionally , by shewing Sin and Wrath : without a sight of which , what cares a Sinner for a Saviour . God likeneth his Law to a Looking-glasse † † Jam. 1.23 Simile . . A glasse by shewing the Spots in the Face , Occasionally directs to water to cleanse , though water be not seen in the glasse . A sense of a Disease directs to the Doctour for Cure , Simile . though the Doctour be not seen in the disease . So the Law , though it do not [ Verbally ] bid one go to Christ , or shew the way of Salvation by it's light : yet the law of the Lord is perfect , converting the Soul * * Psal. 19.7 . But if this should never be ( for some men were never made to be saved † † 2 Pet. 2.12 . ) yet the Law is to be their rule of life : and by shewing what is Good and Evil , it is to restrain them from Evil , and to constrain them to Good : and the more a man is thus ruled by the Law , the more Mercy may he expect here , and the lesse Misery here and hereafter .

Fath.

How was the M L a rule of life to the Jews before Christs death ? Q how were they under it as we are Since his death ?

Min.

The Jews were ( like Rebekahs Twins ) two manner of people * * Gen. 25.23 . : viz , Carnal and Spiritual . The carnal and wicked ( though Externally and by Profession under a C G ) were under the Curse of the Law : and for the Future it was to Fare with them , as with those that never were under that C G. Behold the dayes come saith the Lord , that I will punish all them which are circumcised with the uncircumcised : Egypt , and Judah , and Ammon , &c , for these nations , i e , Egypt and Ammon are uncircumcised , i e , in Flesh : and the house of Israel is uncircumcised in Heart † † Jer. 9.25 , 26. . So we in our Congregational Reformed Gentile Church : some Wise , some Foolish virgins * * Mat. 25.2 . The wise are under the Law for rule of life : the Foolish for all their Church member-ship , are under the Curse of the Law .

¶ 2 ) The Jews were under the law to Terrifie and Humble them , to prepare them for Christ : and So are we . Not that the work of the law in humiliation of Heart , and reformation of Life , makes a Sinner acceptable to Christ , as if Worthy because of this Humility . But it makes Christ acceptable to a Sinner : Simile . as a Physitian to a Sick person at point of death , who Can and Will cure him on Free-cost : for which the Sick will Love him when he is Well .

¶ 3 ) The Jews under this Legal Thunder , were prone to put themselves under the hot Bolts of it , to avoid the Stroke of it : to run upon the Flaming Sword , for Shelter from Slaughter . As many as are of the works of the Law , are under the Curse † † Gal. 3.10 : and yet under it they would run with their daily Dialect : viz , What shall we do ? * * Act. 2.37 . Sirs , what must I do to be Saved ? † † Ch. 16.30 So do we under Conviction without special Direction .

¶ 4 ) They that are under a C G ( by which they are saved without Works ) are under a holy Covenant of good works . N B. In a Covenant between God and man , God Requires and man Consents . God requires Holinesse of Life , man consents to it , else no Conversion . This holy Covenant the Jews were ( and we are ) under . God required them to be holy , Ye shall be holy , for I the Lord your God am holy * * Lev. 19.2 : they consent , All that the Lord hath said will we do and be obedient † † Exo. 24.7 . : i e , Christian duties under a C G. This covenant Christians are ●ow under . Gods command to the Jews was Be ye holy * * Lev. 20.7 : it is the same to us , Peter pleads the same Precept : be ye holy in all manner of conversation , because it is written , Be ye holy for I am holy † † 1 Pet. 1.16 . N B. The Matter of this covenant was Proposed when the law was Delivered : the ten commandments are called the Words of the Covenant * * Exo. 34.27 , 28. : but the covenant is not Made till we be Converted , till we cordially Consent . Adam brought us into a C W , and under the Curse of it : Jesus Christ brings us into a C G , and under the Blessings of it ; but we must bring our Selves into this Covenant , i e , it must be our voluntary Act , yet Gods Work . God putteth this Cry into the hearts of Converts : viz , Come , and let us joyn our selves to the Lord , in a Perpetual Covenant † † Jer. 50.5 . .

¶ 5 ) This holy Life must spring from a holy Heart : which God doth not only Require , and Command , but also Promise to effect in the Elect : both Jew and Gentile . Take some instances both of Precepts and Promises . Circumcise thy heart * * Den. 10.16 . , there is the Precept : thy God will circumcise thine heart † † Ch. 30.6 . , here is the Promise . Cleanse your hands * * Jam. 4.8 . , there is the Precept : I will cleanse you † † Ezek. 36.25 . , here is the Promise . Make you a new heart * * Ch. 18.31 . , there is the Precept : A new heart also will I give you † † Ch. 36.26 , here is the Promise .

¶ 6 ) This Covenant the Jews were apt to break , and so are we . They have broken the everlasting Covenant * * Isa. 24.5 . , Heb 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 the covenant of Eternity : [ everlasting ] for all ages [ a covenant of eternity ] i e , Gods decree for a holy conversation is as Ancient as Election : he hath chosen us before the foundation of the world that we should be holy † † Eph. 1.4 . . For ever O Lord thy Word is setled in Heaven * * Psal. 119.89 . . This word and covenant Christians break by Sin , for which God breaks them by Sorrow : for though we fail God , he will not fail us . Some will ( contrary to God ) keep it as a C W to be Saved : or else cast it quite off and so be Damned .

¶ 7 ) The carnal Jews at length were utterly rejected for their Sins : but the spiritual Jews were Saved , though in their sins there was ( in a Sense ) a continuance † † Isa. 64.5 . . I will NO more have mercy upon the house of Israel , but I will Vtterly take them away : but I will have mercy upon the house of Judah , and I will save them by the Lord their God * * Ho. 1.6 , 7. . Thus those of Us that are not Christians indeed , it will come to passe that God will No more have mercy on such : no not so much as a drop of water to cool the Tongue in Hell fire : but they that are sincerely Sanctified shall certainly be Saved . Thus we are under the Law as the Jews were .

Fath.

How are we Not under the law as the Jews were ? Q

Min.

The universal Body of the Jews were by Divine constitution a National Church : a Sacred Society , under a C G : thus was never any Nation but they . What one Nation in the Earth is like thy people , even like Israel whom God went to redeem for a people to himself ? † † 2 Sam. 7.23 .

¶ 2 ) They were under the Primitive Publick immediate ministry of the Law on Mount Sinai : thus no other people ever was : he sheweth his word unto Jacob , his Statutes and judgments to Israel , he hath not dealt SO with any Nation * * Psal. 147.19 , 20. . To them were committed the Oracles of God † † Ro. 3.2 . : to them the Adoption , and the Glory , and the Covenants , the giving of the Law , the service of God , and the Promises * * Ch. 9.4 . . They were under the immediate ministry of God himself : Ye have seen that I have talked with you from Heaven † † Exo. 20.22 . . The Lord talked with you Face to Face in the Mount , out of the midst of the Fire * * Deu. 5.4 . . Ask from the One side of Heaven to the Other , whether there hath been any such thing † † Ch. 4.32 . .

¶ 3 ) They were under an Engagement to keep Gods Commandments different from us : viz , 600000. delivered at once . their deliverance from Egyptian bondage was Litteral , and Universal : their whole Body being about Six hundred thousand men were all brought out * * Exo. 12.37 . , they left not an Hoof behind † † Ch. 10.26 . But our deliverance from Egyptian bondage is Mystical , and Particular : and comparatively it is but a smal Part of us Gentiles , who are thus Redeemed .

¶ 4 ) The Jews were under the M L as accompanied with the C L. If they sinned against the M L , they must to their Ceremonial Sacrifices of sin-offerings . And they must pray , in , or towards the Temple : such a Place . They must confesse sin over the head of the Scape Goat : these were Types of Christ by whom they were to be forgiven . By reason of these Ceremonial Shadows , elements , rudiments , tutours and governours , fit to teach the Church by in it's Minority ; the Apostle compares them to Children * * Gal. 4.1 , 3 Col. 2.17 , 20. : ( q d ) in their A B C , or in their Accidence .

¶ 5 ) The Jews were under the Law as preached Clearly , and under the Gospel as preached Darkly . The O T was a clear Law , and a dark Gospel . In the O T the N T was vailed : in the N T the O T is revealed . And upon this account , They are said to be under the Law , and We are said to be under the Gospel . Christ was preached to them not only Ceremonially , but also Doctrinally : but yet Mystically . He was called a Rod , a Branch † † Isa. 11.1 . , Water , Wine , Milk * * Ch. 55.1 . , a Fountain † † Zec. 13.1 . : this was mystical Doctrine , their ignorance of which is sometime bewailed : Ah Lord God! they say of me , Doth he not speak Parables ? * * Ezek. 20.49 . N B The Gospel to the Jews was like an inestimable treasure in a dark gay Glasse , Simile . overlaid with fair Flowers , painted with Pictures , to signifie the Substance within : but they like children were apter to eye the Out-side than the Inside . The Gospel to Us is like the same treasure in a Clear glasse , Simile . plain without gays and pictures : so that we can see the inside . Simile . Or it 's like the same treasure in an open earthen vessel , or Shell , as the word signifies † † 2 Cor. 4.7 . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . Testa , A Shell . . Moses put a vail over his Face , and when Moses is read the vail is upon their Heart : i e , their minds were blinded * * Ch. 3.13 . . Hence little Faith , much Fear : darknesse and dread dwell together . Zion said , The Lord hath forsaken me † † Isa. 49.14 : they would conclude it from a crosse Providence , e g , The Lord is with thee thou mighty man of valour : and Gideon said , Oh my Lord , if the Lord be with us why then is all This befallen us ? but now the Lord hath forsaken us * * Judg. 6.12 , 13. . Thus subject were they to slavish fear , and a spirit of bondage . But we being under a clear Gospel have much light : light and joy are joyned together † † Ps. 97.11 . : peace cometh by the knowledge of God * * 2 Pet. 1.2 . If a fearful child meets his father in the Dark , Simile . he dreads him as Death : for thinks he [ that man will Kill me : ] but if he meet him in the Light , he runs into his Arms. Hence Christians under clear Gospel light are said to have the Spirit of Adoption , crying , Abba , Father † † Rom. 8.15 . : i e , Father , Father , child-like with much freedom from fear . This is called the Spirit of the Son : God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts , crying , Abba Father * * Gal. 4.6 . . The excellency of which Spirit appears in this , viz , it acts a Soul to own God as a Father , under the most Dismal dispensation : like the Spirit of the Son under the Fathers wrath : crying , My God , my God , ( though as forsaken ) in that dismal Dooms-day of his Death , which made the air Dark , and the earth Quake . Howbeit some Persons ( at Times ) did Act faith very Nobly under the Law also . e g , When death is at the Door , if Esther the Queen will not speak a word to the King for life , Noble Acts. yet Mordecai will beleeve Deliverance shall arise for the Jews from another place † † Est. 4.14 . . David will not fear when his Sins compasse him about * * Ps. 49.5 . : nor when all Nations compasse him about like Bees † † Psal. 118.10 . : nor if the Earth be removed , and the Mountains into the midst of the Sea * * Ps. 46.2 . . If Gods Zeal , Strength , Bowels , Mercies , and all are restrained ; yet Evangelical Isaiah will say to God , Doubtlesse thou art our Father † † Isa. 63.15 16. . Shadrach , Meshach and Abed-nego will believe in their God in the very Face of the furious King : and at the Mouth of the Seven-fold fiery furnace * * Dan. 3.16 . And Daniel will do the like in the lions den † † Ch. 6. . And some did Noble acts by faith , a Catalogue of which we have upon record * * Heb. 11. .

¶ 6 ) The Jews were under the M L as pointing at Christ to Come : to justifie by blood not ( then ) in Being . e g , If a man sin against any of the ( ten ) commandments of the Lord , and his sin come to his knowledge ( by the law is this knowledge of sin , and by it is the Conscience troubled ) he shall bring his Sin-offering , a Kid of the goats , a Male without blemish , and kill it , and his sin shall be forgiven him † † Lev. 4. . Thus the M L by its Scourge , sent the Sinner to the C L the Sacrifice and Type of Christ : and the Type pointed to Christ himself then to come : for they drank of that Spiritual Rock that followed them † † 1 Cor. 10.4 . . Before faith came ( i e , faith in Christ [ actually ] crucified ) we were kept under the Law , shut up to the faith which should afterwards be revealed * * Gal. 3.23 . : i e , when Christ the Object of faith should be revealed , as manifest in the Flesh , and So believed on in the world † † 1 Tim. 3.16 . : faith in Christ actually crucified . Christ was [ Virtually ] crucified from the foundation of the World . And under the Law they were [ Virtually ] redeemed from the Curse of the Law : but not [ Actually ] redeemed , but when the fulnesse of time was come , God sent forth his Son made of a woman , made under the law [ Actually ] to redeem them that were under the law * * Gal. 4.4 , 5 .

¶ 7 ) The Jews were under many and great Promises of temporal Blessings annexed to their obedience to the Law : even a full land flowing with Milk and Honey , the glory of all Lands † † Ezek. 20 6. . Thus we are not under the Law as the Jews were . Of the great judgments they were under the execution of for their Disobedience to the M L , I say nothing : but , they happened to them for Ensamples or Types : and they are written for OVR admonition , upon whom the Ends of the world are Come * * 1 Cor. 10.11 . .

¶ N B , A threefold Affirmation . Under the Ministry of the Gospel , the C W requires as perfect obedience of them that are under it , as it did under the ministry of the Law . (2) Under the ministry of the Gospel , there is as high a degree of Holiness required of justified Persons , as there was under the ministry of the Law . It 's a Mad mistake to think the Law requires obedience to the law , A mad mistake . but the Gospel requires no obedience to the law . (3) Under the Ministry of the Gospel the Law is to be preached to prick the Heart , and prepare for Christ : as Peter did by charging the Jews with the Murder of Jesus † † Act. 2.36 , 37. . They that say Nay , in effect say , Peter , Paul , Jesus himself , James , and John , whom he Surnamed the sons of Thunder * * Mar. 3.17 . , were all a company of Dunces in their Doctrine . Therefore to say , [ Before Christs death the Jews were all ( by nature ) under the law as a C W : A 3 fold Folly . but we are all freed from it , since Christs death , under the Gospel . Or (2) They ( in a State of nature , or in a justified State ) were under the law for a rule of life : but not we . Or (3) They were under the law to humble and prepare them for Christ , but not we : ] these are false foolish Fopperies , to be fanned away and Burned : as not deserving to be otherwise Answered . Yea such sottish , doltish , Deep Dreams . damnable Dreams ; that I could hazard my heart Blood , to bear witnesse against them .

Fath.

You say Peter and Paul preached the law : Object . 10 Paul saith they were Ministers of the N T , not of the Letter , i e , the Law , which ( saith he ) killeth , and he calls it a Ministration of death † † 2 Cor. 3.6 , 7. .

Min.

There is a threefold killing by the law . (1) By applying the Curse to a Prophane person , and leaving him under it in despair . (2) By condemning a Precise person , for his imperfect obedience . Thus many are killed , and yet secure : but they will find themselves killed at Last , let them do their Best . Thus the Law is a Ministry of death . (3) To kill self-confidence , in self-righteousnesse . To make a Sinner sensible of the sentence of Condemnation he is under : as one dead in Law , Simile . at stake to be Burned , at pits brink to be damned : so as to be set a seeking life by Free Grace . Thus the law is a Ministry of death too : but this is the way to life . Thus Paul was killed , saith he , I was alive , i e , I thought so , I seemed so , without the law , i e , without the knowledge of the law , or killing condition of the C W : but when the commandment came , i e , the knowledge of it , sin revived , and I died * * Ro. 7.9 . . For without the law sin was dead † † Ver. 8. Simile . : i e , Seemingly , as a Ban-dog in a deep sleep : but , wake him , and he will fly in your face , to pull out your throat . Simile . So sin when the commandment comes , as a messenger to tell a Prisoner , he is condemned at Court to die . Obedience to the law for life is in no wise to be preached up : so Paul was not a Minister of the law . But to preach the law to convince Sinners , and counsel Saints , is the part of a Minister of the N T : and he that refuses so to preach the law , is no Minister for me : nor do I value him above them Popish Priests , who having heard the letter killeth , cast off the law , and all good literature , Mr T. lest they should be killed with the letter .

Fath.

I will no longer hinder you in your Twelve Notes promised : as yet there is but Two delivered : I pray proceed , and let me hear the Rest .

Min.

That is well if our strife be at an end : and will you also attend ?

Fath.

Yes , I desire to hear the end .

Min.

Third . As a Minister when he hath preached a Sermon gives it in writing to one of a weak Memory , Note 3. Simile . The M L given as a Sermon . or puts it in Print for Publick profit : so when God had preached this Sermon on Mount Sinai , he gave it to Moses for the use of Israel : on two Tables of Stone , written with the Finger of God * * Exo. 31.18 . . The first Table containeth the First four commandments , which declare mans duty to GOD : obedience to which is properly called Piety . The second Table containeth the Last six commandments , which declare mans duty to Man : obedience to which is properly called Equity . Christ is pleased to contract these Ten into Two . Christ's contraction . viz (1) Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy Heart , &c † † Mat. 22.37 . . (2) Thou shalt love thy Neighbour as thy Self . This contraction of ten into two , is to teach us these Lessons . (1) That God is to be loved Before , and More than all men : thou shalt love the Lord , &c , this is the First and Great commandment † † Ver. 38. . (2) That the main Spring of mans obedience to both Tables must be LOVE : viz , Love to God , Love to man . (3) A summary account of the large Extent of both Tables : on these two hang All the law and the Prophets * * Ver. 40. . (4) The impossibility of such perfect obedience as the law requires , considered as a C W : that consequently it may become our School master to Christ , to be justified by his obedience to the law : and not rest in our Own , to our Ruine .

Fourth . Note 4. A Second Edition . The law thus written on Tables of Stone was a Second Edition and Impression of the primitive perfect law written on the Table of Adam's heart in Innocency . By his Fall he brake this Table in pieces . And man having but a poor imperfect knowledge of God's law left , God did graciously make known his law , by making it audible to the Ear at Mount Sinai : and visible to the Eye on Tables of Stone . Since which God hath by his good Providence put it upon Paper : and written a Book ( responsible to Job's wish † † Job 31.35 The Book of Books . ) viz , the Blessed Bible . The O T in Hebrew : the language of Gods people of Old . The N T in Greek : which when written was more generally known among the Nations . Since both are Translated into the Native language of the Nations who do enjoy them : and Happy are they that Well use them .

Fist . The M L which is an Epitomy , Note 5. The M L given in few words . or Breviary , and the Sum of the Will of God , and Whole duty of man : God hath delivered in few Words 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 ten words * * Exo. 34.28 . : ] a Command for it's Concisenesse called a Word . No more Commands than a man hath fingers on his Hands : that he may easily carry them in his Head , and get acquainted with them : and not plead Largeness to excuse Ignorance , which probably would be his Plea , if God had delivered his mind in a multiplicity of Precepts , A Plea prevented . and Words .

Sixt. God hath ( by his Servants the Prophets , Apostles , and by the Son himself ) Expounded , and Branched out in the Bible , Note 6. The M L branched by 10000. words . these [ Ten words ] with more than Ten thousand words : to prevent this Pretence also for Ignorance : viz , [ This Brevity is Obscurity , this Shortnesse is Darknesse : a Word is for the Wise , we are Weak : if God would have Us understand his Mind , he should have explained it with more Words . ] It is Done : God hath SO spake as to speak all men Speechlesse : Prudence prevents pretences . So as to stop every mouth , and make All the world guilty before God † † Ro. 3.19 . .

Seventh . Note 7. Eight Negatives in Ten. All the ten commandments but two , i e [ the fourth and fift ] are delivered Negatively : i e , by way of Denying and Forbidding of sin , to signifie that the Right way to be Religious or Practically obedient , is to be first Negatively so . e g , Depart from Evil , and do Good † † Psal. 34.14 . : cease to do Evil , learn to do Well * * Isa. 1.16 , 17. . If a man flee not Sinfull Vices , it is in vain to follow Religious Courses . N B , A precept for Faith is included in the First Commandment : which will appear before we part . And it is in the Preface to all the Ten : to signifie that Faith and a New Heart , are necessary Antedecents for both Negative and Positive obedience to follow : for a man must Be good before he can Do good .

Eight . Note 8. Negatives include Positives . Every Negative command includes a Positive command : i e , when God forbiddeth evil Expressely , he biddeth good Implicitly . e g , Thou shalt have no other gods before me † † Exo. 20.3 . : ] there is the evil of idolatry forbid Expressely : thou shalt have Me for thy God , there is the good of choosing God commanded Implicitly . Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain * * Ver. 7. , this is the evil forbid : thou shalt talk Vertuously , and Graciously of thy God , this is the good commanded . Thou shalt not Kill , commit Adultery , Steal , &c † † Ver. 13 , 14 , 15. , these are evils expressely Forbid : thou shalt Prevent murder , adultery , theft in Others by good counsel if thou canst : this is good implicitly Commanded . Positives include Negatives . And Positive commands include Negative commands . e g , Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy * * Ver. 8. , there is good expressely Commanded : remember it not to Prophane it with thy Own works , words , thoughts : there is evil implicitly Forbid . Honour thy father and thy mother † † Ver. 12. , is good Commanded : dishonour them not , is the evil Forbid .

Ninth . Note 9. A negative includes negatives . A Negative command includes Many negative commands . The sin forbid , is forbid in Act , Word , and Thought : and the Occasion of it , and whatsoever hath a Tendency to it . And these Inclusive commands are Expressed as they are Branched out in the Bible . e g , Thou shalt have no other gods before me : q d , No National god imaginable , no Personal , or private god of wood to worship in thy House : no god of Gold in thy Heart , thy Self , Wife , Child , House , Land , Friend , Goods , Gold , shall not be thy gods ; as they will Be if loved more than Me. And see with what Caution the Occasion of idolatry is forbid in these Texts * * Deu. 12.30 . . ] Thou shalt not Kill : not with Hand , Ch. 13.1 , 3. Mouth murder . nor with Tongue , to be a Mouth-murderer as some call a Slanderer : and so we may call an evil Counceller . Not with Heart , to be a Heart-murderer : he that hates his brother is a murderer † † 1 Joh. 3.15 . . Kill not by evil Counsel , or bad Example : neither Do , nor Say any thing that may Tend to , or Occasion thy neighbours death : in Body , or Soul . Thou shalt not kill thy Self . Not with violent Hands , nor with Words spoken against thy own life : nor by Carelesnesse of deaths and dangers : nor by ill Diet , not by Drunkennesse , nor by Gluttony . Plures periere Gula quam Gladio : more die by the Board than by the Sword . ] Thou shalt not commit adultery . Not in Act , nor in Heart : whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her , hath committed adultery with her already in his Heart * * Mat. 5.28 . Christ calleth a Thought , an Act : to signifie , that Smal sin in Mans sight , is Great sin in GOD's sight . Thou shalt not occasion it by unclean Cogitations , and Contemplations : nor by adulterous Discourses with Delilahs : Remove thy way F AR from her , and come not nigh the door of her house † † Pro. 5.8 . Simile . . As he that carrieth Gun powder about him , had need keep far from Fire : so he that carrieth Corruption had need keep far from Temptation . As when children meet a Horse , Simile . Cart , or Cow , they will ( if timerous ) run Ten times farther out of the way than need : so let men learn to flee from Sin . Keep thee Far from a false matter * * Exo. 23.7 . Avoid it , passe not by it , turn from it , and passe away † † Pro. 4.15 . . ] The law is Spiritual * * Ro. 7.14 . ; it forbids the Least evil motion , and First carnal conception : it commands our Spirits and Hearts to be holy : it condemneth for the most Secret sin in the Soul . It is called the Royal law , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , the Kingly law † † Jam. 2.8 . : it is the law of the King of Kings . No earthly Kings law can condemn a man for a secret thought against the King : Dissimile . but this Divine Law of the King of Heaven can and doth : it condemneth a man for the most Secret thought against the Law-giver .

Tenth . Note 10. A positive includes positives . A Positive command includes Many positive commands . e g , Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy . q d , Remember it to Prepare for it , to begin it Early , to spend it in holy duties , in holy discourses , in holy meditations , to be in the Spirit : to cause all under you to keep it holy . ] Honour thy Father and thy Mother . Honour them in Deed , in Word , in Thought , in their Presence , in their Absence , in their Old Age , when tempted by the Devil , and by the disobedient to dishonour them , when they Please thee , when they Displease thee , Rebuke and Correct thee . N B , A Negative command inclusively commands All lawfull means to avoid the evil forbid : and a Positive command inclusively commands All lawfull means to perform the good commanded . On these things I have but Harped and Touched , for One of these Ten Words is a great Text : and to shew what is contained in a Commandment would make a long Sermon : for thy commandment is Exceeding Broad † † Psal. 119.96 . .

¶ This tenth Note having some respect to the Sabbath , A lesson for the Lords day . leads me to leave this Lesson with you . viz , Fail not to learn your children to Reverence the Sabbath day . FAR be it from you to follow our English Heathens : Hatefull Heathens . who let their children Loose to serve Satan on the Sabbath day . Tell them of the Sore judgments , God hath sent upon Sabbath-breakers : for which Search the Scriptures , and See the Practice of Piety , Practice of Piety preferred . one of the Best Books ( but one ) that ever was written : and is like to rise up in judgment against many . N B , God delivered no other commandment as he delivered this for the Sabbath . e g. (1) It hath a Memento presixt : viz , Remember . (2) It is amplified with Arguments more than all the rest , except the Second . (3) It is delivered [ Positively ] keep it holy : and [ Negatively ] thou shalt not do any work : and so is no other commandment delivered . FAIL not in this for the Fear of God : this Glorious and Fearfull name , THE LORD THY GOD * * Deu. 28.58 . .

Eleventh . Note 11. Heaven and Earth made in Six dayes . The GREAT GOD that was but Six dayes in making Heaven and Earth , was twice Forty dayes and Forty nights in writing and delivering these Ten Words † † Ex. 24.18 . , to remain a Law and Rule for mans life . And Moses was as long waiting , Ch. 34.28 . prostrate on his Face fasting to receive them * * Deu. 9.9 , 10 , 11 , 18. : he did neither eat bread nor drink water , but did uncessantly attend this Heavenly ministry of God . And these Ten words were written with the Finger of God , upon two Tables of Stone † † Ex. 31.18 . : and put into an Ark of Shittim-wood * * Deu. 10.3 , 5. , very Durable , and counted incorruptible . There was nothing in the Arksave the two Tables † † 2 Chro. 5.10 . : for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy Name * * Ps. 138.2 . . God will magnifie the Law and make it Honourable . If the Ark set forward , the enemy must Flee before it † † Nu. 10.35 . If the Ark go through Jordan , the waters must make way * * Jos. 3.15 , 16 . If the Ark be set up by Dagon , then Dagon must Down † † 1 Sa. 5.2 , 3 . If Dagon will try the other fall , he shall lose his Head and Hands , and have nothing left but his Stump * * Ver. 4. : which can neither Invent nor Act , as head and hands do . If the law of God be in the Heart , the reproach of men is not to be feared : for the Worm shall eat them like Wool † † Isa. 51.7 . . The Ark containing the two Tables , was a Sacred Symbole of Gods presence . God will be with his Law , and with the Lovers of it . God will keep them as the Apple of his Eye , who keep his Law as the apple of Their eye : as he hath commanded * * Ps. 17.8 . Pro. 7.2 . The ark a triple Type . . And the Ark was a type of Christ , who is the End of the law . (1) It was made for him to Keep . (2) He was made to keep That . (3) He keepeth it for Our use , Ark-like . N B , As Jesus obeyed the law for our justification Perfectly , in love to GOD , and to the Law , A sweet Simile . and to Us : so we are to obey the law in our conversation Sincerely , in love to GOD , and to the Law , and to the Lord Jesus . Was the onely wise God twice 40 dayes and 40 nights engraving Ten Words upon Two Tables of Stone , and will vain man make them Void ? it is easier for Heaven and Earth to passe , than One Tittle of the Law to fail † † Lu. 16.17 . .

Twelfth and Last . Note 12. A deep Decalogue . The ten commandments are a Vast Continent . The M L is the fountain of all laws : viz , Moral , Ceremonial , Judicial and Evangelical . They all belong to it , it is the Root , they are the Branches : they are contained in it , and may be reduced to it : on these two commandments ( i e the ten ) hang all the Law and the Prophets * * Mat. 22.40 . . Here if we consider man in his three-fold State , viz , of Innocency , of Sin , and of Grace ; we may see the M L containeth mans duty in every State . ¶ First , in Innocency . ] Adam being capable of receiving it , Ten in One. Break one break all . God gave him the ten commandments in One commandment : this is clearly implyed in Adam's breaking them All , by breaking that One. As the Sanction of the law is Disjunctive , viz , Do or die ; and the Injunction of the law Copulative , viz , Do this and that and all ; so is the law it self Copulative , i e , so linked together that in breaking one he brake all . This M L then contained Adam's duty in innocency , e g , in the first commandment , [ thou shalt have no other gods before me : ] that Negative implyeth this Positive [ thou shalt have me for thy God ] i e , by thy obedience to my M L : for no other was in use , yet all other Laws were Conditionally contained in it . ¶ Second , Consider man in his Fallen State , ] and there other laws fall in as usefull : they being conditionally and providentially prepared thereunto . (1) The judicial law cometh and killeth him . Adam's Death . Adam's Soul died : i e , he was as disable to recover his Fall by a C W , or any other way , as a Dead man is to live . And death of Body followed : and death of Soul and Body passed upon all men † † Ro. 5.12 . . (2) Man being fallen , the law of faith falleth in for his Recovery : for this implicit Positive precept is still in force : viz , [ thou shalt have me for thy God . ] This must of Necessity imply , [ thou shalt beleeve on my SON ] q d , For having Lost me , thou hast No other way left to Find me to be thy God . Thus the law for Faith appears to be implyed in the first Commandment , as I fore-told you . (3) Man being fallen , Ceremonial Sacrifices fall in as usefull , from Adam's Fall to Christs Death : at which time they ceased . And since Christs death , Moral , Judicial and Evangelical laws are contained in the M L for mans use in a Fallen State . ¶ Third , Consider man in a State of Grace , ] and the same laws are contained in the M L for his use : viz , Moral , Judicial , Evangelical laws . The first commandment containeth many Evangelical laws : this implicit Positive precept , [ thou shalt have me for thy God , ] implyeth thou shalt Beleeve in me , and in my Son : for faith in Christ is a Christians daily duty . And Repentance , Love , Humility , Hope , Fear : are implyed in this first precept : [ thou shalt have me for thy God . ] It is q d , If I be thy God , thou shalt Repent of thy Sins against me , thou shalt Love me , thou shalt walk Humbly with thy God , and Hope in thy God , and Fear thy God . e g , Beleeve in the Lord your God * * 2 Chro. 20.20 . , Repent and turn from your Idols † † Ezek. 14.6 . , thou shalt Love the Lord thy God * * Deu. 6.5 . , Humble your selves in the sight of the Lord † † Ja. 4.10 . , Let Israel Hope in the Lord * * Ps. 130.7 . , thou shalt Fear thy God † † Lev. 25.17 . : these and the like are Branches of the first commandment . ] The second commandment containeth Laws against Idolatry , Will-worship of mans invention : worshipping of Images , Pictures , the Sun , Moon or Stars * * Deu. 4.19 : and laws for the True worship of God . ] The third commandment containeth Laws for Prayer , Praise , giving of Thanks : for godly Discourse in Private , and Publick : which includeth Preaching . And laws against Swearing , Cursing , Blaspheming , and Murmuring against God : and speaking of God vainly , idlely , formally , unprofitably , proudly . ] The fourth commandment containeth Laws for the Sanctification of the Sabbath day : and Laws against the Prophaning of it . This commandment is called , Custos primae tabulae : and this first Table containeth all mans duty to God . ] The fift commandment containeth Laws for honouring of Parents , and Ministers , and Magistrats , godly Governours , and pious Princes called in Scripture Fathers † † Isa. 49.23 : and Laws against dishonouring them : and for Correction for disobedient children . ] The sixt commandment containeth Laws against all kinds of Murder , unjust Battels , Quarrels , Blows with hand or heart , to hurt in any part . ] The seventh commandment containeth Laws against Adultery of every degree : Fornication , Incest , Sodomy , Buggery : all uncleannesse , wantonnesse , wearing of apparel contrary to the Sex , whether Male or Female * * Deut. 22.5 . . ] The eight commandment containeth Laws against all kinds of Thefts , Robberies , Rapines , Sacriledge , antiscriptural Usury † † Ex. 22.25 Deu. 23.19 , detaining of wages , pledges , fraud , deceit , false weights and measures * * Chap. 25.13 , 14. . ] The ninth commandment containeth Laws against false witnesse , back-biting , tale-bearing , giving or taking of Bribes to blind the eyes to ill ends † † Ex. 23.8 . Deu. 16.19 . ] The tenth commandment containeth Laws against evil thoughts : and is very direct against desires after whatsoever is our neighbours : and as a Sword should cut the cords of covetousnesse in Sunder . This Second Table containeth all mans Duty to man . Thus far of the M L.

Fath.

What say you of the C L ?

Min.

The C L respected Typical worship : Of the C L. of which Sacred Ceremonies there were 4 Sorts . (1) Holy Persons : viz , High priests , Priests , Levites , Nazarites . (2) Holy Places : viz , the Tabernacle , the Temple , and other places of Divine appointment , where God recorded his Name * * Exo. 20.24 . . (3) Holy Things : viz , the Ark , Oyl , Fire , holy-Water , First-fruits , Incense , Burnt-offerings , Meat-offerings , Peace-offerings , Sin-offerings , Silver trumpets . (4) Holy Times : viz , Holy dayes , as New moons , Ceremonial Sabbaths . [ Feasts , ] viz , feast of Passe-over , and unleavened bread , feast of Pentecost , feast of Tabernacles , feast of Trumpets , feast of Attonement . Holy years : viz , the Sabbatical or Seventh year † † Lev. 25.2 , 3 , 4. : the year of Jubile or the Fiftieth year * * Ver. 8.10 . .

Fath.

What of the Judicial Law ?

Min.

The Judicial Law was made to provide punishments for Offenders against the M L , Of the Judicial Law . and the C L : for a Rule to punish by according to Equity and Justice . For Capital offences the Jews had 4 kinds of death : viz , Stoning , Strangling , Beheading , and Burning . Crucifying was not by their law , but by Pilate's the Roman Deputy † † Mat. 20.19 . Jo. 18.32 . . For offences not Capital , they had Scourging , Imprisonment , Restitution , Retaliation .

¶ By these three Sorts of Laws the Jews were governed . By the M L as they were Men , and a Humane Society : by the C L as they were a Church so constituted , and a Sacred Society : by the Judicial Law as they were a Common-wealth , and a Civil Society .

Fath.

How is the M L abolished ? and how is it not abolished ?

Min.

The M L as a C W , Abolition of the M L. or the Curse and Rigour of the law which separateth man from God , is abolished and made void for true Believers : but as to the Doctrine , Discipline , Government of it for rule of life ; it is as Permanent as Heaven and Earth .

Fath.

How is the C L abolished ?

Min.

The Practice of the C L which separated man from man , viz , Jew and Gentile , Abolition of the C L. is abolished : for he is our Peace who hath made Both One , and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us * * Eph. 2.14 . . But though it is out of use as it was Practical , yet it is in use as it is Doctrinall .

Fath.

How is the Judicial Law abolished ? Abolition of Ju Law .

Min.

The Judicial Law is abolished as it provided punishment for Sin against the C L. Like as Flowers or Plants are fenced to keep them from being broken down while they are to Stand : Simile . so was the C L fenced with the Judicial Law : but when these Plants are plucked up , to what end shall the fence Stand ? e g , The 10 day of the 7 month was a Ceremonial holy day : he that did any work was to be destroyed by the Judicial Law † † Lev. 23.27 , 30. : but now this C L is abolished , this Plant plucked up , the Judicial Law ( the fence ) is gone too . But Judicial Laws to punish Offenders against the M L , are not abrogate , but Permanent : and are to be used ( with discretion ) by the godly Civil Magistrate , who is to administer Justice , and execute them on Offenders . e g , If a man kill a man , and so break the Sixth commandment ; he that killeth with the sword , must be killed with the sword * * Rev. 13.10 . : ] whoso sheddeth mans blood , ( the Judicial Law is in full force ) by man Shall his blood be shed † † Gen. 9.6 . .

¶ Thus God who foreknew mans Fall , Wonderfull wisdom . and made a C G , with Christ before he made a C W with Adam , hath in wisdom So delivered this Sacred Divine Law of the Decalogue , that it should contain in Ten Words the whole Duty of man : to GOD and Man , in his threefold State . (1) In a State of Innocency : (2) In a Fallen State : (3) In a State of Grace by Jesus Christ . I conclude these 12 Notes on the Ten Commandments with Davids prayer : LORD ! Open thou mine eyes , that I may behold Wonderous things out of thy LAW * * Psal. 119.18 . .

Fath.

I see now my perswasion of the Decalogue was no delusion , but O how little do I see ! I and others had need use David's prayer for light in God's law : but I fear our Antinomians who do so slight it , will never pray for light in it .

Min.

They that see by the light of Strange Fire , and are so deep-learned in the Doctrine of Devils as to deny Gods law to be a rule of life ; are never like to use David's prayer for light in God's law : for their light being darknesse , they see not so much as their own ignorance , nor the danger of self-conceitednesse : and so are like to go into the land of outer darknesse .

Fath.

God be mercifull to me ! and deliver me from Antinomian delusion : sometimes when I talk with Mr A , I am ready to Q whether the law be any rule of life or no.

Min.

You pray well , but look a little dull : if it may recreate ( and not corrupt ) you , let me tell you a Story . viz , A German woman desiring to rid the house of her husband , German woman . cast him into a deep sleep : and then Dresses , Shaves , Cuts and Clips him into the fashion of a Fryar . A godly Minister is my Author . When he wakes she Stares and Storms , q d , What does this Fryar here in my house ! ] Fryar ! q d , Wife art mad ! doest not know thy husband ? Still she storms , bawls , and fumes against the Fryar . The man being amazed looks in the glass to see if he can know himself : but seeing himself in such a Shape , he almost believed he was a Fryar as his wife affirmed . Thus the Antinomians use the law . e g , (1) They paddle with the Preface , viz , I am the Lord thy God which brought thee out of the land of Egypt : that belongs to the Jews only , and so is rejected . ] Visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children : to cut off that they bring this as a Sword , every one shall die for his own iniquity † † Jer. 31.30 . . ] Remember the Sabbath day : forsooth that is Ceremonial , and so Snipt off . ] That thy dayes may be long in the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee : that belongs to the Jews , and so is clipt off . Having thus maimed and dismembred the Decalogue they wholly reject it : that ( with the German woman ) they may be at liberty to go a whoring from God . They are of kinne to that cursed King , who cut the Roll and cast it into the fire * * Jer. 36.23 . : but it was rescribed , and many like words added † † Ver. 32. : if man will diminish the Preceptive part , God will adde to the Penal part of his Precept . There were desperate Antinomians in Job's dayes . e g , He stretcheth out his hand against God * * Job 15.25 . Take this literally , and so did Julian the Apostate when ( wounded in battell and bleeding to death ) he stretched out his hand to throw his blood up to Heaven : Julian against Jesus . saying in indignation to Jesus , Theod , l 3. Cap. 20. O Galilean ! thou hast overcome me . And the Amalekites , who when they could catch a Jew and kill him , would cut off the part that received the Seal of the Covenant : and with an out-stretched hand throw it up towards Heaven , Jerom. with indignation against God for that institution . Take it metaphorically , and so doth he stretch out his hand against God , who useth his Wits and Words against God : as the Antinomian when he argueth against Gods law . A man should not lift up hand , word , or thought against God : but hand , heart , tongue and all For God : but he strengthens himself against the Almighty † † Job 15.25 . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Shaddai , Omnipotency it self who can do all things , and yet what can the Almighty do for them ? yet he filled their houses with good things * * Chap. 22. 17 , 18. , and yet what can the Almighty do for them ? Reason will tell a man , the Almighty can do All things . Reason differs the spirit of a Man from the spirit of a Beast : what unreasonable blind beast is this then that thus argues ? If the Almighty can do nothing For , he can do nothing Against a man : and that I presume is their hope : viz , the Lord will not do good , neither will he do evil * * Zeph. 1.12 . . ] He runs upon the bosses of his bucklers † † Job 15.26 . : alluding to the fierce assault of a Souldier . The buckler is Defensive armour : the bosse Offensive , i e , a Sharp Spike , if a man come close it kills him . God's Buckler is the Preceptive part of his law , by which he defends his honour : his Bosse is the Curse , threat or Penal part , by which he kills them that break his command . e g , Thou shalt not eat of the tree of knowledge , there is the Buckler : in the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die * * Gen. 2.17 , there is the Bosse : Adam runs upon it and dies for it . Thus Job's Antinomian , or ours , his Cousin German . He will offer violence to God , and his Law , with Gospel in his mouth . He runs upon him , even on his neck † † Job 15.26 . . He will try a twich with God . He would pull God out of Heaven , and throw the world out at Window . A Saint playes the man against Satan : but he playes the Devil against God , who makes his Law void . Here is sin of a Size ! what blows big enough for sin So big ? it will puzzle an Apostle and a Philosopher too , to define it .

Fath.

What may be the Reason of our Antimian aversnesse to the Law of God ?

Min.

(1) Because of its Antiquity , 1 R. and their Novelty . ] They have an evil eye upon the O T for its Names-sake . Upon this account they may slight God himself , who is the Ancient of dayes † † Dan. 7.9 . . And on this account they may slight the Gospel ( for that is as old as the Law ) as no doubt they will do when a New one comes up . And on the same account they may slight their Own opinion , for it 's as old as Adam's fall : Adam was an Antinomian when he brake the Law . It 's older than Adam's fall : the Devil was an Antinomian when he tempted Adam to be of the like Religion .

¶ 2 ) Because of its Purity . 2 R. ] It is a sacred , divine , perfect , pur * * Ps. 19.8 . , holy , spiritual Law † † Rom. 7.12 , 14. . It binds hands , feet , tongue , heart and All to holinesse . Antinomians are Libertine , who love not to be bound by the bonds of Gods holy commands : but a David loves the law upon this account : thy word is very pure , therefore thy servant loveth it * * Ps. 119.140 . .

¶ 3 ) Because of their own Obscurity , 3 R. and ignorance of its excellency . ] That excellent office of the law , viz , to wound for Sin , and send to a Saviour ; they are Strangers to . They never saw their own sins in Gods Looking-glasse : but other mens sins in the Devils Prospecitive-glasse : Simile . The young Blackmoor . Simile . and so are like the Black boy that fled from his Black father to his White mother , not considering his Own blacknesse . Antinomians slight the law , as the Indians did their Gold , when they knew not its worth . And as a Natural man doth Gods gold ( i e , Simile . grace ) which is to him as drosse . And as the Jews did Jesus , not discerning his Beauty , though altogether lovely † † Cant. 5.10 . . The very Name of Jesus was hatefull to the Jews : they could not call him by it , but , this fellow * * M. 26.61 . , that deceiver † † Ch. 27.63 , and the Carpenter * * Mar. 6.3 . : so is the very word [ Law ] contemptible to our Antinomians . But this is madnesse with a Witnesse ! for without law , what right hath a man to any good ? viz , Temporal , Spiritual or Eternal . What right to house , goods , land without law ? or what Safety are lands or life in without law ? what right to Christ , Heaven , eternal life without law ? It is by Law that Christs righteousnesse IS righteousnesse : i e , by the law of Works . It is by Law that Christs righteousnesse is a Christians righteousnesse : i e , by the law of Grace † † Jer. 23.6 . . It is by Law that Christians are Saved , i e , the law of Faith : and it 's by Law that sinners are Damned , i e , by the law of Works . God imputeth righteousnesse by law and Saveth : and God imputeth sin by law and Damneth : and is LAW to be slighted ! He that breaks one breaks all * * Ja. 2.10 . Break one break all . : the breach of the ten commandments brings a man 10000 Talents into Gods debt by Law : and is LAW to be slighted ! Little England hath a great deal of Rome in it , and ( seeing darknesse is now a dayes so desirable ) it's to be wished these persons wish not for Popery and Tyranny , who do so disgust this good word LAW : for if a man would have laws against Theft nulled , no doubt that man desires to be a Thief : and so of any other such like desire to destroy Law . It is no wonder these persons are in darknesse , for they will shut their eyes against Scripture-light , if it be contrary to their own conceptions . Simile . They are like the Elephant , who makes the water Muddy , that he may not see his Deformity . They will search Scripture for what seems to suit with their sinfull minds : but would bury the opposite truth in oblivion . They bring their opinions to the Word , not to be discovered , but covered and maintained : and Role them through the Bible to see what Mosse they can gather to cloath them with . Scripture with Scripture they will Not compare : but run away with a Piece of a Scripture , as the Devil did † † Ps. 91.11 . Mat. 4.6 . . If these persons were Indians , they were objects of pity : but if they will shut their eyes in a land of light , let them go into the land of darknesse , as persons to whom is referved the blacknesse of darknesse for ever * * Jud. 13. .

¶ 4 ) Because of their Impurity and wickednesse . 4 R. ] This cursed Doctrine of disowning the Law , comes from a corrupt Heart : and by such it shall be drunk Up , and swallowed Down with delight . Such are glad of a gospel that gives them liberty from Piety , to live in Iniquity . They love to hear a smooth Sermon to day , to see a Play to morrow , to go to a Dancing-school the next day : Chrysostom's saying of Dancing . though Chrysostome sayes , Where dancing is , the Devil is . ] And to go Gaudy in their Garments , for the sake of a little cursed credit among the carnal : and this at Such a time when God is calling so loud for Sackcloth and Ashes . And to neglect their childrens Souls , when Papists are coming to cut their Throats , and send them to Hell to howl there against their Parents for their Lawlesse life . To say [ the law is no rule of life ] is for the Devil to speak with a Tongue of flesh , enough to horrifie a mans heart to hear it . Such in effect say Idolatry , swearing , Sabbath-breaking , killing , stealing , whoring , are no sin . No wonder if such fall foul , and become vessels for the Devil to empty his Excrements into , until they are full and flow over . A Story too true . I knew a person Anno 1666 then a Preacher , who ( in opposition to the use of the law in preaching ) said , I hate the law of God as Poyson : ] after which this preacher turned adulterer : even when he had an amiable wife of his own . What wonder ? it may be the man did it to bear his testimony against the law of God : which he used to complain of as the cause of the corruptions of his heart . God will one day roar like a Lion against these Rebels , and rend the caul of their heart † † Ho 11.10 . Chap. 13.8 . : when he assaults ehm , q d , [ Was I 40 dayes and 40 nights preparing a Law for you to loath , slight , snuffe at , and spit out your venome against ? ] Let such expect the Antitype of the 40 dayes deluge for their portion , to last as long as everlasting . N B , They that forsake God's Law , forsake God himself . Rehoboam forsook the law of the Lord * * 2 Chro. 12.1 . : what then ? Thus saith the Lord , Ye have forsaken Me † † Ver. 5. . To the same purpose is this saying , Ye are gone from mine Ordinances , return unto Me * * Mal. 3.7 . : q d , In going from mine Ordinances ye are gone from Me. Some wicked men own God in Words , and deny him in Works † † Tit. 1.16 . : Antinomians deny God in Words , and overpasse the deeds of the wicked . * * Jer. 5.28 . . Religion ! I value it not with the dust of my Shoes , which I shake off as a witnesse against them . It is worse to make the Law void than to make Heaven and Earth void † † Luk. 16.17 . : and he that had rather overturn heaven and earth than his own rotten opinion , I fear will never find a place in Heaven , nor on Earth long : but in Hell ere long .

¶ 5 ) Because of the Judgments of God which Antinomians are under : 5 R. and they are two-fold . (1) The judgment of Delusion , for their transgression . ] They have chosen their own wayes , and their soul delighteth in their abominations : I also will choose their Delusions * * Isa. 66.3 , 4. . ] They received not the love of of the truth that they might be Saved : and for this cause God shall send them strong delusion , that they all might be Damned † † 2 Thess. 2.10 , 11 , 12. . If once persons are made drunk with the wine of the wrath of God in the cup of an imaginary gospel of liberty ; then the Law is spewed out and cast behind the back : like a mad man , Simile . who cares not if he straw the street with Pearls . (2) The judgment of Prophanation . ] Sometimes God punisheth Sin with Sin , i e , one sin with another : for sin he gives up to sin ; for the practice and Pleasure of sin , God gives up to the Power of sin : this is the way to prepare for the greatest plague in Hell . Better be under all Job's boils , and Pharoh's plagues , and all the Tyrants in Turkey , An unparallel'd plague . than under this judgment of the Powr of sin : though it be to the sinner a Pleasure . ¶ To these judgments of Delusion , and Prophanation ; is linked the judgment of eternal Destruction . Man chooses his abomination : God chooses his Delusion : and God will choose his Destruction . Let no man think to choose his work and his wages , his sin and his sorrow : if man will choose his Sin , God will choose his Sword : and sharpen it for the Slaughter , to cut in pieces the Sinner * * Ezek. 21.10 . .

Fath.

It 's a sad case to be in : I told Mr A a piece of my mind one day : and he was angry , and said , I had learned by Lesson of my Legal Preachers .

Min.

Angry ! Silly folly . what kind of angry folly is this ? for a man to shew me a piece of Pitch , and be angry because I say it 's Black . [ Legal Preacher ! ] They that call a Minister [ Legal Preacher ] because he uses the Law lawfully , know neither Law nor Gospel : and had need begin at great A. If a man be Practical , he will seem to be Legal : though he be indeed Evangelical . Holy E Hunt . [ That holy man at Hitchin , E Hunt : when I first knew him , and observed how much he delighted in Gods law , and did ( in heart and life ) adhere to holinesse ; I feared he did rest in his own righteousnesse . But when he came to declare his Conversion , and his Opinion in point of Justification ; he made it appear that he trusted in Christ only for That : and that he was in Practice an excellent Person . The Lord make Me and Mine , and You and Yours like him . ] And let Mr A say what he will , I say ; a mans spirit , thoughts , words , works are No more to be approved than they are Legal : Legality a glory . a mans legality is his glory , which is to the Antinomian a Mystery .

Fath.

Mr. A saith he hath fulfilled the law in Christ , hath Justification , and Sanctification alike in Christ : and needs none in himself , in heart or life : which he saith is to Me a Mystery .

Min.

A mystery of iniquity , of which let me make a discovery . Righteousnesse for Justification is resident in Christ : Righteousnesse for Sanctification is resident in the Christian : Mr A saith they are both alike in Christ , none in the Christian . N B , A mans own personal righteousnesse for Justification is to be rejected and abhorred : by Mr A's rule , righteousnesse for Sanctification of heart and Holinesse of life , is to be abhorred too : Desperate Doctrine . and not a Dram of grace suffered to be in the Soul . What then is an Antinomian better than a Babylonian ? who is the habitation of Devils , and the hold of every foul spirit , and a cage of every unclean and hatefull bird † † Rev. 18.2 . The next time you see Mr A , pray give him this short Sentence : viz , He that hath Justification without Sanctification , shall surely have it without Salvation .

Fath.

I told Mr A of his loose life , and he said , Faith was greater than Holinesse .

Min.

Greater or lesser , they are linked together : the one is not without the other . Faith without works is no more alive , than the Body is alive without the Soul * * Ja. 2.26 . . What does Mr A think to be saved by ? faith without fruit ! faith with froth and filth ! faith that makes void the Law ! weigh such faith and the faith of Devils together , and you will soon see which is the lighter . That faith which hath not obedience to the Law for its fruit , I deny . That gospel which is without Law , a Lawlesse gospel , I disown as another gospel , the preacher of which I count accursed , though he comes as an Angel from Heaven † † Gal. 1.8 . .

Fath.

If I plead with Mr A for a holy life , he tells me Faith can do that for me which Holinesse cannot do for me .

Min.

And Holinesse can do that for you which Faith cannot do for you . e g , Suppose you have faith , and fall into some sin : what shall be your defence from the word of reproof and reproach , which is as an arrow shot out * * Ps. 64.3 . Jer. 9.8 . ? will you say , I have faith , I believe in Christ ? your faith and you will be abhorred together . But if you live holy , and be faisely accused , you have a Breast-plate of righteousnesse to defend you from these Darts † † Eph. 6.14 . . N B. As faith justifies before God which works cannot do , so works justifie before men which Faith cannot do .

Fath.

If Mr A heard you , he would count you ignorant of Christ and the Gospel .

Min.

Mr A and Mr B too have their liberty to come and try whether they or I can produce and declare , (1) The greatest sense of Sin , Gods wrath , Hell and Eternity . (2) The clearest sight of the emptinesse of Self-righteousness . (3) The greatest and sweetest comfort and assurance of Salvation by Christ . Or , (4) The greatest love to the Lord Jesus : to his Person now in Heaven .

Fath.

It seems you have not got Gospel-Notions without Convictions , as Mr A hath . But some Ministers ( which are not called Antinomians ) preach nothing but the Doctrine of Justification by believing : I wonder at them .

Min.

That you wonder at such is no wonder : for such are Pieces of preachers : if I saw a piece of a man in a pulpit , I should wonder with you . It seems by such , that there are hundreds of Texts in the holy Scriptures ; which stand for Cyphers . If a Minister tell men only what God hath done for them , and not what they must do for God , their neighbour , and themselves ; how does he declare the whole councel of God * * Act. 20 27. ? Is a man born to do nothing but believe ? what strange trade is this ! whether such workmen do half their work ? is a hard Question . Such preachers and hearers are like to have their work to do in the grave , where it will never be done † † Ecl. 9.10 . And how much Blood such Ministers will go Off under the guilt of , God only knows : for their not informing men of the C W which they are under ( by nature ) under the Gospel , will ( I doubt not ) occasion the damnation of Thousands of Souls in this City .

Fath.

They say , The grace of God teacheth men to deny ungodlinesse * * Tit. 2.12 . .

Min.

True : it 's therefore a sign their single way of preaching the Gospel is not blessed for the reception of that grace : seeing their hearers deny not ungodlinesse .

Fath.

What may be the Reason why such Ministers do not preach the Law ?

Min.

(1) A foolish fond affection for the Title of a N T Minister : Gospel Minister : 1 R. Preacher of Free grace . They are afraid of the Title [ Legal ] as if the word [ Law ] which God hath magnified and made so honourable , would dishonour them .

¶ 2 ) A man-pleasing spirit : 2 R. loth to displease : love of the praise of men , more than the praise of God * * Joh. 12.43 . . Men will praise them that please them with fine stories of Gods favour ( concealing his displeasure ) instead of shewing them their foul faces in the clear glasse of God's Law . They like not to give occasion for this Reflection , viz. What have I to do with thee , O thou man of God ? art thou come to call my Sin to remembrance ? † † 1 Kin. 17.18 .

¶ 9 ) Ignorance of the necessity of preaching Gospel Duty to the godly . 3 R. Such preachers see not the Duty of the gospel , as necessary to be preached as the Doctrine of the gospel . They fill the Head with gospel Notions : but doth Heart and Hand are empty of good Operations . Some write whole Volumes of Notions , to Blaze abroad their Notion : which ( Occasionally ) will but treasure up wrath for Writer and Reader , if Practice prevent not . ALAS ! Alas ! the lamentable neglect of Duty and barrennesse of Life is not laid to Heart . To inform Christians of their duty ; to direct , excite , provoke them to it ; is no small part of the work of a preacher : by the want of which , Christians are almost in all evil , in the midst of the Congregation * * Pro. 5.14 .

¶ 4. Ignorance of the necessity of a Law-ministry to awaken sleepy Sinners , 4 R. and make them sound Saints : by warning them to flee from the curse of the Law to Christ . Such gospel Ministers understand not how many of their Hearers are asleep in their Sins , under their gospel Sermons , with all their Notions : and what to be warned with Thunder and Lightning , to flee from Hell : whither they are hasting with a lie in their right hand † † Isa. 44.20 .

Fath.

It seems by these Reasons , the effects of neglect of preaching the Law , are Sad.

Min.

SAD ! yes , and very sinfull : as for instance in each of the ten commandments . It s because the First commandment is not preached , that there is so much monstrous Idolatry among men . Men make gods of Devils , of Men , of Beasts ; of Houses , of Lands , of Friends , of Enemies , of Themselves , of their Bellies * * Phil. 3.19 , of their Wits , of their Works , of their Worship † † Hab. 1.16 . To which I may adde , mens denying the very Being of God . e g , This last Sturbridge Fair Anno 1681 , a Cambridge Scholar in discourse said , I had it of him that heard it . I do not believe there is either God or Devil or Heaven or Hell . Here is an eye for a Parish ! what Doctrine will this person preach ? who hath took such a Degree from the Devil and Hell . Another denied the Being of God to an honest mans face who affirmed it : said the A theist , I will prove there is no God thus , viz , I will fall a Swearing as fast as ever I can Swear , and let your God come and hinder me if he Can. ] And so fell into a Swearing fit , and Belched out abundance of Oaths , as long as he list : then insulted over the honest man with a [ Where is your God ? ] intimating that he had infallibly disproved his Being . O the patience of God! who did not turn such a wretch's Swearing into Roaring . ] It 's because the Second commandment is not preached , that men have so many false Ideas of God in their minds . Some imagine God to be an Old Man sitting in Heaven , A sort of Indians . who will do them no hurt : and so fear the Devil only , but yet serve both . They light up One candle to God that he may Help them : another to the Devil that he may not Hurt them . Some few , fancy God to be all Severity : and so despair of mercy . Many imagine God to be all Mercy ; and so take liberty for Iniquity . Antinomians are much like the Hereticks of old , who held , that under the Law God was a severe Judge : but under the Gospel all Mercy . But if God be changeable , why may he not be all Justice again ? and that in Judgment to them . ] It 's because the Third commandment is not preached , that men use the name of God so lightly , vainly , irreverently : in discourse Of God , in preaching For and From God , in prayer To God . And that men Swear so sadly , and frequently , even All oaths small and great , from [ God Save me ] to that dreadfull [ God Damn me ] which last I tremble to relate . They that not onely neglect to pray God to Save them , but also do daily dare God to Damn them ; I have No hope of their Salvation : nor No doubt of their Damnation : they take Long steps to the Lake that is but a little before them . They that swear [ God Save me ] may possibly be penitent , pardoned , and Saved : but this dreadfull [ God Damn me ] is like to prove an unpardonable Oath to All that use it . ] It 's because the Fourth commandment is not preached , that the Sabbath is so Slighted , so Slept away , so talked away about Trifles , and that Christians are so carnal in spiritual duties : and enjoy so little of God . ] It 's because the Fifth commandment is not preached , that Children are at such a Passe : and do so many wayes despise , disobey , dishonour their Parents : and Kick up their heels at Correction when it comes . ] It 's because the Sixth commandment is not preached , that there are so many Murders : with Heart , Hand , and Tongue . ] It 's because the Seventh commandment is not preached , that there are so many Adulteries : in Act Word , Heart : which sin is sometimes of sad consequence . e g , One sent Luther a letter to tell him this Story : viz , A letter to Luther . A widdow had a child by a Scholar : and the Priest would not baptize it , except she would discover the Father . At this she killed the child : and Hanged her self . The Scholar hearing this , Hanged himself . The Priest hearing this , Hanged himself . ] It 's because the Eighth commandment is not preached , that there are so many Thefts with Hand , and Heart . And so much immorality , and want of Common honesty among professors : so much fraud and deceit in dealing , the Least of which is not to be allowed , but condemned : and he that uses it , not to be trusted more or lesse , for he that is unjust in the Least , is unjust also in much * * Lu. 16.10 . Never trust him with a Guiny who will deceive you of a Peny . It may seem a small matter for a Weak woman under Strong temptation to take an Apple : but the Lord God said unto the woman , What is this thou hast done ? † † Gen. 3.13 A Question enough to make a man Quake . ] It 's because the Ninth commandment is not preached , that there is so much evil Speaking ; backbiting , devouring , sowing discord , that surpassing service of Satan . ] It 's because the Tenth commandment is not preached , that men are so Covetous . With this cord , sin is drawn as with a cart-rope * * Isa. 5.18 . . Covetousnesse comes of the love of the world : that root of all evil † † 1 Tim. 6.10 . . If this sin live in the Heart , I know not what sin will die : nor what sin such a Soul shall escape the Snare of . What multitudes of murders doth it make men commit ! how doth it make men murder and ruin even their own relations ! sometimes themselves and all . I could tell you many a Dreadfull Story had I time : take 2 or 3 for a taste .

¶ One left his Lover , for a Richer . In July 1681. A Knight that I can name . The forsaken damsel , Drowned her self by London Bridge . This Ladies death struck this Knight with grief , and Death : for in few hours after he died . And now their Relations are lavishing out their hundreds at Law , for the thousands these unhappy Lovers left behind .

¶ Two fatherlesse Females lived in a Lone house . Mr W. Their Uncle ( who that day paid them their Portions ) came with his Sons at Midnight to murder them for their Money ; He was killed , and his Sons taken and hanged , by means of a Stranger who lost his way and lodged there that night : which is a Story of such Singular Circumstances , I am sorry I have not time to tell it out .

¶ A man being long at Sea , at length came home to see his Father and Mother . Mr C. Mr W. This Seaman had a Sister living at Towns end , whom he called to see as he came in the Even : and she knew him . But coming to his Parents , they knew him not . He delighting to keep them in the dark for that night , to make merry with it on the morrow , made himself a stranger , and desired a nights lodging . They lodge him in a barn which he accepts : but desires them to lodge his bag of Money in the house . They take it in : and in the night consult to kill him for it , and did so : and so were soon made rich . But in the morning , his sister came betime to see her brother . They understanding what they had done , ran Mad , and so were hanged . Sir these are no Idle Tales .

Fath.

Truly these are Sad Stories . And I see now , this defect in preaching sin Down , and duty Up ( by opening the glasse of the Law to shew sin ) is the cause why sin lives so much under Sermons . What symptoms of the sin of Pride in the Heart , is in the Habit ! it troubles me to see in what a Garb some go , that I could name .

Min.

O! pray take heed of that ! it is good sleeping in a whole skin . Trouble you ! if you and I were well awake , it would make us tremble , to see persons come to Sermons as if they came for Shows : and appear on Galleries , as if they were on a Stage in Smithfield Fair , to act a part in a play . And how is it possible these painted persons should be reproved by a preacher who appears in a Pulpit in a monstrous Periwig ? a Crown of Pride ! N B , If these persons preach not pride Down , their hearers go down to Hell : if they do at all attempt it , it 's impudence in them : and so it is to speak any word in the name of God † † Ps. 50.16 . O what a Shame is it for a man to pretend to have the spirit of God , and yet go as if destitute of the dictates of Nature ! for doth not even nature it Self teach you , that if a man have long hair , it is a Shame unto him * * 1 Cor. 11.14 . ? A shame if it be his Own , which God and nature have given him : much more it it be another mans hair , which comes not from God , nor nature , but Art , that coins a man for the Court : or makes him liker a Courtier than a Preacher . Scripture phrase . Gods word in such a mans mouth is as a Jewel of Gold in a Swines Snout † † Pr. 11.22 . Simile . . And in handling it such do Swine-like , musle a Pearl up and down the Mire . The lip of the Leper was to be covered * * Lev. 13.45 . : and the unclean spirit was to hold his peace † † Mar. 1.25 . Brethren to these in iniquity , are such Ministers who suffer their Wives and Daughters to go like Ladies of honour : as if they came from a Court to wait on a Queen : or were of Madam Guins Gang , though maintained byu the Congregation .

¶ But O how perillous is Pride or Sin in such persons ! The perill of pride . when the Priests were to go into the Tabernacle , said the holy Lord God , They shall wash their hands and their feet , that they Dis not : and it shall be a Statute for Ever to them * * Exo. 30.21 . . When the Priests sons were wicked in worship , there went out Fire from the Lord , and devoured them , and they died before the Lord † † Lev. 10.1 , 2. : a prodigious plague ! If the Priests daughter did commit fornication , she was doomed to the most dismal death , viz , to be burnt with fire * * Lev. 21.9 . : when others did not die at all for fornication † † Ex. 22.16 , though they did for adultery * * Lev. 20.10 . . These prodigious plagues , shew how hatefull sin is in Such , more than in others . With such Ministers , we may rank such Members , who being Coached to their meetings , suffer their Coachmen to sit at an Ale-house , in Sermon-time : and to sit drinking at the Table of Devils , while they sit at the Lords Table . AY Sir ! you can shake your Head and sit Silent , but I must Speak : these things stink up to Heaven . The sins of professors of Religion , make religion Stink in the nostrils of the prophane † † Gen. 34 30. : and make professors themselves stink in the nostrils of God * * Isa. 65.5 . . Let such preachers , and professors take heed , the Holy God , who hates pride in a high degree , do not speedily Spew them out of his mouth . By reason of proud persons God may say to London , Behold , this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom , Pride , &c * * Ezek. 16 49. . PRIDE was one of the Engines that pulled down the fire of God from Heaven , to burn them down to Hell . A proud person is in a Perillous condition : especially if a Preacher , or a Professor . But whosoever it be , the higher in Pride , the lower and farther from God : the liker the Devil , and the nearer Hell . Yet a proud man is above God : for God will have his will in nothing but what is good and just : but a proud man will have his will , right or wrong . How can a proud person receive any grace from God ? Bernards Simile . God is the Fountain , his grace and mercy to man is the Stream : as in a water-course , the Stream can rise no higher than the Fountain from whence it comes : so grace can rise no higher than God , which a proud man is above . N B , Pride lifting up so high , will let fall full low at last : he that is above God , will doubtlesse fall below the Devil .

¶ Beware of World-likenesse . Caution . Likenesse in Christians to the world in Sin , causes likenesse in Sorrow . When the small Pox , or the great Plague rages , the Reason why God puts so little difference between the Egyptians and Israel , is because Israel differs so little from Egypt . They Live alike , and Die alike . Some professors promise themselves safety in Pestilence from this promise , viz , 1000 shall fall at thy side , and 10000 at thy right hand , but it shall not come nigh thee * * Ps. 91.7 . but why ? because thou hast made the Lord , the most high , thy habitation † † Ver. 9. : this is a dwelling in God by a holy life ; It is a promise of preservation with a condition , such expect it without , why not Salvation too without believing ? Sir , I see by your looks , I have said more of preachers than hath pleased you : but if persons will not be reproved , and reformed when such a Plague of darknesse is approaching us from the Pit , to prepare us , or Ours for that place of torment ; we may write the Red Crosse on our doors .

Fath.

Let than passe . I spake only against Pride : but I fear we have some who hear to Poor purpose , besides such Proud persons .

Min.

Now you talk of such hearers , and put it into my head , I tell you , here are such Parcels as I could not have believed to be in London , had I not heard and seen it . eg ,

¶ 1 ) Some are pleased with their pure gospel , 1 Sort of simple hearers . without Law or Duty : with faith without works . Let a Minister tell them a story of Christ's benefits , &c , they think All is their own . Poor deluded creatures ! where is their Faith ? they must shew it by their Works , if God may be Judge * * Ja. 2.18 . . If their gospel Minister should preach duty so necessary , and presse the power of godlinesse ; they would leave him for a Legal preacher : not enduring such sound Doctrine , for want of sound Hearts .

¶ 2 ) Other judge of a Minister , 2 Sort. by the multitude of his auditors : being albe to give no other account of him , than he who hasteth to some Hurly-burly or Tumult in the Street : viz , he runs because he sees others run before him . If this be a rule to judge a Minister by , we may cry up the Quakers , and other who are unsound in Fundamentals : for such have the great Assernablies .

¶ 3 ) Other are taken with Tones , 3 Sort. and Accents : as if the life and power of Preaching lay in Points , and Tittles : for if a Sermon be Substantial , yet if not Tonical , it s to them a Toy . Or , let the same sounding Sermon be delivered without Tone , or Read to them , it s not worth a Rush .

¶ 4 ) Other admire a Minister , 4 Sort. who hath a strange kind of confidence with God : though his boldnesse be a fruit of his ignorance . And admire his out cryes against the enemy : and the broad sides he give them out of his pulpit , prophetically pulling them down before their time : though this be a fruit of a 3-fold ignorance . (1) Of the enemies power , and policy , rather than knowledge of Gods power and wisdom to oppose them . (2) Ignorance of Englands Sins : for which God may justly suffer Antichrist to make the Nations Shake at the sound of our fall , before he comes down . (3) Ignorance of their own duty , to stay God's time : wait ye upon Me , saith the Lord , untill the day that I rise up to the pray † † Zepb. 3.8 . Yet is this kind of confidence admired : and if a preacher be Sober , and do not Hector and Vapour , his Sermon is snuffed at as a Cypher .

¶ 5 ) Other are in love with a loud noise : 5 Sort. they like him best who speaks Loudest : though he desreve to be told as one told the Nightingale in eating its little carkase , Vox tu es preterea nihil , thou art nothing but noise . ] It is not the Sermon , but the Sound , that is Significant to such . If the same Sermon , or a much better , be delivered with a low voice , though a substantial , sound , suitable Sermon , and preached in Print , it s not worth a Pin. I do not know but a Drum in a Pulpit , is as good for them as good Doctrine . Call them to an account of their Canorous preachers proceeding , they reply , O he is a Thundering preacher ! he hath a Rousing voice ! so it seems , if a man have but bare Brains , and strong Lungs , it s enough , though that be all . Simile . Such hearers are like the Servant who came home crying up the Sermon to the Clouds : to whom said his Mr , What was the Text ? Sir it was taken out before I came in . What of the application of the Sermon ? I came out before he had done . What of the middle of the Sermon ? Sir , I was asleep then . I will trouble you but with one sort more , and they are

¶ 6 ) A company of Children , 6 Sort. who choose to hear Youths preach . These you will say are Young hearers , before you hear that some of them have been hearers near half a hundred years . Excellent Elihu was otherwise minded : viz , I said Dayes should speak † † Job 32.7 . . Surely such never read this Text , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , not a novice * * 1 Tim. 3.6 . ] Paul dehorts from despising Timothy's youth † † Ch. 4.12 . : but he was no Upstart , nor new plant * * 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . : he had know the Holy Scriptures 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 from an infant † † 2 Tim. 3.15 . . It seems he was sanctified from the cradle , for that Sacred Service . He was not prepared with a little humane learning , and some notions of Divinity scraped up together into a Paper , to read over in a Pulpit : as some of our Youths are , whose grace I doubt is not a Dram. If I was to hear a Sermon , before I would go over a threshold to hear a youth , surely I would walk 7 miles to hear some grave solid Senior : for with the Ancient is wisdom , and in length of dayes , understanding * * Job 12.12 Sir , if I was informing some Ignoramus , it would be necessary to say , I despise not any proper comely Accent , or audible voice in preaching : but you are past a Child , to whom I speak .

Fath.

I have observed some of these Simple things : I fear we have a pack of pitifull professors here in London .

Min.

Do you but Fear it ! as for our Congregational ( to say nothing of National ) professors in London , I am satisfied in this to my Sorrow , viz , that the Religion of abundance of them is like the heart of the wicked : little worth † † Pro. 10.20 . . And though they learn the language of Canaan , yet their end will be destruction * * Isa. 19.18 : and they the people against whom the Lord hath indignation for ever † † Mal. 1.4 . I reflect upon none truely gracious : or that carry it Christian-like . As for others , never tell me , They are Church-members , and belong to this Minister , and that Dr: let them leave off worldly-love , and others Vaities : part with their Pride , and practice Piety , or never professe it more . And to all Libertines and Antinomians at once , I say ; Its obedience to the Law of God , in Love to God , as a fruit of this root [ the Grace of God , ] done to this end [ the Glory of God , ] that I plead for : and if this will not Down , let them throw their gospel after the Law , and be so honest as to turn profest Atheists , and deceive the world no more with the Name of Christ , and not depart from iniquity † † 2 Tim. 2.19 . .

Fath.

You seem to of an implacalbe spirit against the Antinomians .

Min.

I am so , every Inch of me : my spirit is like the Northern Iron and the Steel * * Jer. 15.12 , to Stab their rotten religion to Death : for to reconcile Right Religion and the Antinomian , is to bring God and Baal together .

Fath.

I am of your mind , but I must desire , you to dismisse me , for my occasions call me .

Min.

If you be in hast , Conclusion I will make a hasty Conclusion , with this Exhortation . viz , Love the pure precious Laws of the God of Love . Be grieved because they are Slighted † † Ps. 119.158 . . The more other slight them , the more od you delight in them . Keep them as the apple of thine eye * * Pro. 7.2 . . Bind them upon thy fingers : write them upon the table of thine heart † † Ver. 3. . Keep them in the midst of thine heart * * Ch. 4.21 . Esteem them more than your necessary food † † Job 23.12 . Let them be sweeter than hony , and the hony comb * * Ps. 19.10 . . Be legal in all your Life . Glory in legality . Never think well of what is not done according to Law † † Ezra 10.3 . Labour for life : work as if you were to win Heaven by working * * Joh. 6.27 . Phil. 2.12 . Heb. 4.11 . : and when you have done all , count all nothing in point of Justification . Rest upon Christ onely for That , as if you had done nothing at all . And follow not a man living a Step farther than he follows Jesus Christ † † 1 Cor. 11.1 . : and so Sir , I bid you Farewell .

Fath.

Farewell Sir : the Lord reward you .

〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉

A THIRD DIALOGUE Concerning the SABBATH-DAY .

The Third Part.

Then I contended with the Nobles of Judah , and said unto them , What evil thing is this that ye do , and prophane the Sabbath-Day ? Did not your fathers thus , and did not our God bring all this evil upon us , and upon this City ? yet ye bring more wrath upon Israel by prophaning the Sabbath . Neh. 13.17 , 18. Hallow my Sabbaths and they shall be a Sign between Me and You , that ye may know that I am the Lord your God . Ezek. 20.20 . Blessed is the Man that doth this , and the Son of man that layeth bold on it , that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it . Isa. 56.2 . Also the sons of the Stranger , that Joyn themselves to the Lord , to serve him , Every one that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it : even them will I bring to my hold Mountain , and make them joyfull in my House of Prayer . Ver. 6 , 7. And he saw that Rest was Good , and the Land that it was Pleasant , and bowed his shoulder to bear , and became a Servant unto tribute . Gen. 49.15 .

LONDON , Printed by J A for the Author , 1681.

The General Contents of the Third Dialogue . THE Parents complaint of himselfe . The Parents complaint of Mr S , Mr A , Mr L. Mr A with his Every day Sabbath confuted . Mr L with his Never a day Sabbath confuted . The change of the Sabbath for Mr S's conviction . The beginning of the Sabbath : the times contended for descoursed : viz , Morning , Noon , Even , Midnight . Six Objections against the true time Answered . The time of Christs Resurrection occasionally discoursed . The day of Adams fall occasionally discoursed . Satans old enmity against the Sabbath , Noted . The month-day , and week-day of Christs death discoursed . The next day no Sabbath , proved . The Jews various division of the day into hours . Of the Passeover , Wave-day , Seven-weeks , Pentecost . The Jews custom in Translating the Passeover . The opinion of Pentecost on the first day , disproved . Of the Disciples meeting on the Pentecost . Of Gods countenancing the Pentecost . Of Jesus's exact observation of the Passeover : and Sabbaths , Moral and Ceremonial : and the whole Law . The day of Jesus's death declared , and proved . Divers Questions arising thereupon , Answered . An account of the Authors way in this work . The Parent Cautioned , and Counselled . Ten Directions dropped for the Sabbath day .

Wherein we have an account

Of The Day of Adams fall . ] The day of Jesus's death . ] Of The Sabbath ensuing , the Wave-day , the Pentecost . ] Of The time of Jesus's burial . ] The time Jesus lay dead . ] Of The time of Jesus's Resurrection . ] The beginning of the Sabbath . ] All contrary to the Common Account .

A THIRD DIALOGUE Concerning the SABBATH-DAY . Min.

BEN ! — BEN ! — BEN !

Ben.

Where ? what ? who calls me before I can see ?

Min.

O! Sleepy-head ! hear you not low hastily some one knocks at the door ? Pray rise and know the matter . —

Ben.

Sir I have been down to know his name , and his businesse : and he tells me it s he that , sat so long with you under the Tree : and he desires to speak with you Presently .

Min.

Strike a light and let him in : and tell him I will rise . —

Fath.

God Save you Sir . I am compelled to come and visit you at an unseasonable time : I hope you will hold me excused .

Min.

Sir , you are welcome to me : but I wonder to see you in Town so Soon : and am surprized to see you look so Sad. Pray what is the matter ? is all well at home ?

Fath.

All in health praised be God : Parents complaint . of Self . but I am under Grief upon Grief . It hath been a Sad time with me since we sat under the Tree : though I concealed it from you in our last conference . SAD ! I have Reason to be Sad indeed , to think how sadly I have neglected my poor children Souls . O to think how many times we have walked by the way , and not a word of God! to think how many times they have been twatling about me in the house , and not a word ! how many times they have been packed to bed , and pulled out , and not a Word of God have I spoken for their good ! O it hath cut me to the quick ! and put me upon prayer for pardon , space , and grace to do my duty . And I did addict my self to it : and began to find peace in it . But yesterday after the afternoon Sermon , as I was instructing my children about the Sabbath , Parents complaint of Mr S Mr A Mr L. in came Mr S in anger , and told me , I kept the wrong day : and said , I should keep the Seventh day , first appointed , and never reprealed . When he was gone , Mr A came in and Laughed at me , and my practice as a low thing : viz , to keep One day in a week : and told me , I should keep Every day as He did . When he was gone , Mr L came in and told me , I should keep Never a day Sabbath : for that command for a Sabbath was Ceremonial , and long since ceased at Christ's death . And my Children listened to this last with delight : and now they slight the Sabbath , and whatever I say for it : and tell me Mr L is counted a wise man . And under this Sorrow upon Sorrow I am so disquieted I am almost distracted . In your last conference , at end of the Tenth Note , when you pressed it upon me to learn my Children to reverence the Sabbath ; I had a mind to ask you what Scripture proof we have for the change of the Day : but I was loth to interrupt you : but now being driven out in distresse , I pray let me hear your reply to all these Opinions , but chiefly for the change of the Sabbath Day .

Min.

Did they use to be thus Opposite ?

Fath.

A little by the By , when other businesse brought us together : but now they came on Purpose , and assaulted me as Never before .

Min.

Just now ! as soon as you are set upon a Solemn work : when the good seed is sown , then comes the Devil † † Lu. 8.12 . . Indeed you are to be pitied , and so are they : but I fear some of them will be plagued . As for your former Sorrow , it s Alway better than laughter * * Ecl. 7.3 . , Sometimes better than joy : there is sorrow that Dries the spirit , this will Water it : and so I praise God for it , and passe it . But this Last is the Pest , that carries the Poyson in it : for which I must provide some Antidote to expell it . As for my reply to these persons , Mr A who keeps every day Sabbath , and Mr L who keeps never a day Sabbath ; Every day Never a day . you may put them together ( for he that keeps Every day keeps Never a day ) and so look on them as two persons possessed by Satan : above the dominion of God , and under the dominiof the Devil . But let us take them asunder again : and speak to them apart .

¶ 1 ) This Every day Sabbath is none of God's ordinance , Mr A consuted . for God's command is , Six dayes shalt thou labour † † Exo. 20.9 . : it must therefore be the Devils ordinance , and to him it s observed : as the Priests which God did not appoint , are said to be ordained for the Devils * * 2 Chro. 11 15. . Mr A is blown up into the Air with a blast from the bottomlesse pit , and puft up with Pride : a Sabbath day a week is a weak thing with him : he is a 7-fold Saint or under a 7-fold Deceit , in the border of Heaven , whence he is like to fall into the belly of Hell .

¶ 2) 2) Mr L consuted . Mr L who keeps Never a day Sabbath , but slights the Sabbath as Ceremonial , is to consider , (1) The Sabbath was not given first to the Jews or seed of Abram , as Ceremonies were : Sabbath was made for Man . but it was given to Adam as a Publick person , for him and his posterity , to be obeyed whether man stood or fell : and this in Innocency before Ceremonies were in use . And though Adam was not subject to wearinesse before sin , yet a Sabbath was suitable for him , as a Sacred cessation from his calling . So God gave Adam a Sabbath , and Blessed it : i e , to make it a blessing to him that kept it : and Sanctified it † † Gen. 2.3 , i e , he set it apart for holy use . (2) The Sabbath was Certainly observed , from Adam to the Law on Sinai , though not much expressed in Genesis , which is but a very short Epitomy of 2000 years Acts , in which time many excellent acts were done , which are omitted , and not recorded . Abrahams observation of the Sabbath day , is without dispute : because he is so commended for keeping Gods commandments * * Ch. 26.5 . . And that the Sabbath was known to Israel before Sinai , you may See † † Exo. 16.23 . : the breach of which command is counted as the breach of all * * Ver. 28. . (3) This command for a Sabbath is one of the Ten , delivered on Sinai before Ceremonies : Josephus's Sabbatical river that runs six dayes and rests one will rise up in judgement with Mr L and Mr A. and wrote on two tables of Stone , and put into the Ark , as no Ceremony ever was . Mr L playes the Papist , who takes away one , and leaves but nine . (4) Christs precept for Prayer , to prevent flight on the Sabbath , which flight was to be 40 years after Ceremonies ceased , proves the Sabbath no Ceremony : Pray that your flight be not in the Winter , q d , that will wrong your Bodies : neither on the Sabbath † † Mat. 24.20 . , q d , that will wrong your Souls . Mr A and Mr L are brethren , both under a 7-fold deceit : to undeceive them , let us put them together again to consider , viz , God in wisdom did so order the change of the Day , that though it occasioned two Sabbaths to come together , yet there was not Two in a week , nor a week without One : to signifie , there must be nor more nor lesse than One Sabbath in One Week .

Fath.

What say you of Mr S , and of the change of the Sabbath Day ?

Min.

As for Mr S who denies the change of the Day , The chang of the Sabbath . I say ; Though the Change of the Sabbath be not founded out with a Trumpet on Sinai as the Command of the Sabbath was ; yet have we so much in Scripture as may Satisfie concerning it . They that say , Give me a plain precept for a practice , or I will not regard it ; may mean Honestly , but they speak Ignorantly . For if from a Text we can draw a direct , sound Inference to prove a practice , that ( being the Sense of Scripture ) is to be regarded as Scripture it self . The sense of Scripture we are to seek as Silver : and if this be not to be regarded , its vain to use any Scriptural Reason , or Argument in discourse as Paul used to do * * Act. 17.2 . Ch. 18.4 , 19. Ch. 24.25 . : or to Study and expound the Scripture by preaching . Then put a Boy into a pulpit to read a Chapter : for what other Sermon can an able Minister make ? if nothing but the very words of Scripture must be delivered . But let us see some Scriptural proof for this practice .

¶ 1 ) The stone the builders refused , O T proof . i e , for a foundation for Faith and Practice , is become the head † † Ps. 118.22 . , of the work of Redemption : he hath laid the foundation and finished it by his Resurrection . This is the day the Lord hath made , i e , the day of the week on which Jesus rose : we will rejoyce and be glad in it * * Ver. 24. , i e , to foresee it by Faith , if we live not to see it by Sight . Yet prayes pathetically and speedily for it : Save now , I beseech the , O Lord † † Ver. 25. . God is the Lord which hath shewed us light * * Ver. 27. i e , to foresse this Day . ¶ 2 ) Thus saith the Lord , my salvation is near to come † † Isa. 56.1 . , i e , Actually : it was come before Virtually . Blessed is the man that doth This , and the son of man that layeth Hold on it , that keepth the Sabbath * * Ver. 2. i e , a Sabbath in remembrance of Christ's Actual redemption . ¶ 3 ) When these 7 dayes are expired , i e , Eight is a Sabbatical and Vital Number . by the death and Resurrectiof Jesus : it ( i e , the Sabbath ) shall be upon the Eight day and so forward ( the first day added to seven is the eight day ) and I will accept you saith the Lord God † † Ezek. 43.27 . .

¶ 1 ) After Jesus's resurrection he said to his Disciples , All power is given to me in Heaven and in Earth * * Mat. 28.18 . : which implies power to change the Sabbath . And Christ gave them Commission to teach the Nations to observe all things whatsoever he had commanded them † † Ver. 19 , 20. i e , nor more nor lesse . N B , If Jesus did not ordain the first day Sabbath , the Disciples ( by their practice ) have taught England and other Nations to observe a New Sabbath of their Own invention . ¶ 2 ) The Disciples assembled on the first day , and shut the doors for fear of the Jews ; i e , because it was in opposition to their seventh day Sabbath : and Christ came and Sealed their New Sabbath with his sweet presence * * Joh. 20.19 , 20. . ¶ 2 ) Jesus was seen of the Apostles 40 dayes , speaking of the things pertaining to the Kingdom of God † † Act. 1.3 . : of which the Sabbath is One , and none of the least . ¶ 4 ) The Disciples came together to break bread upon the first day of the week * * Chap. 20.7 . : in remembrance of Jesus , for whose sake they observed that day . ¶ 5 ) The congregation and Collection of the Churches of Galatia , and Corinth upon the first day of the week , was by the Apostles order † † 1 Cor. 16.1 , 2. : to these at Corinth by writing , and saith he , the things which I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord * * Ch. 14.37 . ¶ 6 ) John being in Patmos said , I was in the spirit on the Lords day † † Rev. 1.10 A desert Island in the Aegean Sea . . He does not give the day this name , but the day on which he was in the spirit , he Signifies by its name , so well know to the Churches to whom he wrote : i e , the Lords day , so called upon the same account as the Supper is called the Lords Supper : viz , because Jesus ( who is Lord of all ) did institute both to be kept in remembrance of him . ¶ 7. The first day is called Sabbath in several Scriptures : e g , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , the beginning of the Sabbath * * Mar. 16.9 . : ] 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , the First of the Sabbaths † † Joh. 20.1 Cardinal for the Ordinal . , i e , the New Sabbaths . ] Paul went into the Synagogue on the ( Jews ) Sabbath day * * Act. 13.14 . , and preached Jesus : and when the Jews were gone out of the Synagogue , the Gentiles besought that these words might be preached to them the next Sabbath , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , the Sabbath between † † Ver. 42. See his Sermon . from Ver 15 to Ver 42. ] i e , between two Jewish Sabbaths , which Sabbath was the first day : and that was the Reason the Gentiles durst not name it till the Jews were gone out . Thus far for Scripture Proof : now for some Scripture Paralle .

¶ 1 ) The seventh-day was kept in remembrance of God's Creation : Scripture Parallel . the first day is kept in remembrance of a New Creation by Christs Redemption . As soon as man sinned , there was [ Virtually ] a dissolution : he and the world was at an end with him . So as Christ was [ Virtually ] slain from the foundation of the world , there was [ Virtually ] a New creation , by prevention of a dissolution of the Old : for by him all things consist * * Col. 1.17 . . This new creation was called the world to come † † Heb. 2.5 . 2 Paral. . ¶ 2 ) The seventh day was kept in remembrance of Gods rest from his work of Creation : the first day in remembrance of Christ's rest from his work of Redemption : that all men should honour the Son even as they honour the Father * * Joh. 5.23 . As from the conclusion of the Creation men were to honour the Father with a day in remembrance of That : so from the conclusion of Redemption are men to honour the Son with a day in remembrance of That . When God had actually finished his work of Creation at end of the Sixth day , he instituted a Sabbath the Seventh day : so when Jesus had actually finished his work of Redemption at end of the Seventh day , he instituted a Sabbath on the First day . ¶ 3 ) The seventh day was kept in remembrance of a Delivery from Slavery † † Deu. 5.15 : 3 Paral. so is the first day to be kept . And though all men are not free indeed by Christs redemption , so as to obtain Salvation ; yet is he ( in a sense ) the Saviour of all men * * 1 Tim. 4.10 . : and may command all men to keep this day in remembrance of him . N B , When the seventh day Sabbath was in use , it was said , the government Shall be upon his shoulder † † Isa. 9.6 . : the government is not Now in the hand of God as Creatour , but in the hand of Jesus as Redeemer : for the Father loveth the Son and hath given all things into his hand * * Joh. 3.35 . , which he will deliver to the Father at last day † † 1 Cor. 15.24 . Judgments of God . .

¶ The Judgments of God which ( on the first day ) have befallen the prophaners of it , will One day be a Witnesse for it : though at present the plague of Pharoh be so upon the hearts of prophane and professing people , that they are not moved at them . viz , (1) Gods judgments on mens houses and goods by fire : e g , Teverton , Chesterton , London : though in this last Hell-born bloody Sinners were the Instrumental cause , yet the inhabitants Sin was the Meritorious cause . (2) On Sabbath-breakers Bodies , who by the formidable hand of God , have been struck Dead on this day in the very Act. (3) On Sabbath-breakers Souls , who have proudly pretended to keep every day : such have been ( and are ) commonly Cursed and Blasted , and with all their Blaze brought to nought . To which 1 adde 2 Queries for consideration , and one Assertion for full satisfaction .

¶ 1 ) Was not the Fourth command for a Sabbath Day placed among ( and one of ) the Ten , 1 Q. to signifie , it is Originally and Essentially Moral and Perpetual ? and sometimes put among Ceremonial Sabbaths * * Lev. 23.2 . 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7. to signifie , that in respect of that circumstance of Time , it was Typical , and subject to change ? viz , with respect to the Day .

¶ 2 ) Did not Adam fall on the Sabbath Day , 2 Q. and so break the first Sabbath that ever was made ? and if so , did not that signifie , the day was mutable ? as the fall and breach of the Tables containing the C W with Adam signified the mutation of that Covenant , and the making of a New C from the beginning .

¶ A first day Sabbath is ( in a Sense ) of as great Antiquity , Assertion . as the first Sabbath ordained for Adam in Innocency . Though that was at the end of Gods Works , it was at the beginning of mans Life . God Ended his week with a Sabbath : but man Began his week with a Sabbath . It seems he was made at end of the Sixth day , to begin his life on the Seventh day , which was his First day , though he was made a moment before the day began . Adam was a Type of Jesus , who began his New Life at his Resurrection with a Sabbath , the first day of the week . And so must we begin our week with a Sabbath : a day for God First , which is Certainly more acceptable to God , than to serve our selves Six dayes first , and then put off God ( blessed for ever ) with an Od day at last . So much for the change of the Sabbath Day .

Fath.

I am satisfied in the change of the Sabbath : but I am at a losse to know when the Sabbath begins : but I think it s not much matter for that , so that a man keeps a day .

Min.

HOW ! keep a Sabbath and not know when it begins nor ends ! nor Care to know ! consequently you will not care to know when Christ rose from the dead , for his resurrection gives beginning to the Sabbath . Nor will you care to know how long he lay dead . What grown like Gallio ! † † Act. 18.17 . Simile . Sir , I am sorry to hear such an ungracious speech fall from your lips . Suppose your self taken by cruel Turks : a most loving friend ( to rescue you ) falls into their hands himselfe : in which Skirmish you escape . But for your sake he is cruelly used , wounded , mangled , imprisoned in a dismal dungeon , So many dayes . Then escapes , acquaints you with it , and desires you ( for his sake ) to keep a day in remembrance of his deliverance : beginning at the time when it was . What would you not care to know when to begin nor End ! nor how long your friend lay Bound ! truely you deserve to be retaken by the Turks without remedy .

Fath.

I perceive by this , you hold Jesus went to Hell : but that many Divines deny , and so do I : for its contrary to Christs words upon the Crosse , viz , To day shalt thou be with me in Paradise * * Lu. 23.43 . . If Christ went to Heaven , how could he go to Hell ?

Min.

If he went to Both , it s not so great a mystery as the Trinity . God is in Heaven and Hell at once † † Ps. 139.8 . And Jesus was in Heaven and Earth at once , before his death * * Joh. 3.13 . : and why not in Heaven and Hell at once , after his death ? Take heed of unsound notions of a Saviour : if Jesus hath not been in Hell for you , I fear you must be there for your Self .

Fath.

Well! let it passe . If it be of such concern to know when the Sabbath begins , tell me the time : for there are divers opinions about it .

Min.

I need not instance every hour of the day , The Beginning of the Sabbath . but onely the time contended for : viz , Morning , Noon , Even , Midnight : and the measure of the day , viz , 12 hours , and 24 hours .

¶ 1 ) I need not deny that it begins at [ Noon ] ( as the Gipsies count ) as if that time was contended for in England : Not at Noon . but though it be not the Plea , it is the Practice of some professors , who begin to assemble in Gods service after noon , as it were by way of Recreation , to serve God by the halves . Such have lost half the Sabbath long since . And it is to be wished they turn not Aminomians and Libertines to lose it all , and themselves too at length : for they by whom God is but half Served , are like to be but half Saved .

¶ 2 ) Some Roman-like plead for [ Midnight ] to begin and end the Sabbath : Not at Midnight . for which they produce two Texts . (1) Paul preached on the first day till Midnight † † Act. 20.7 . : ] which is no ground for this beginning , for he preached till midnight because he was to depart next morning with a final Farewell . (2) Samson arose at midnight and carried away the gate of Gaza * * Judg. 16.3 . : which say such was a Type of Christs rising at midnight . ] Samson was a Type of Christ in 20 things : but that he was a Type of Christs death and resurrection , in laying a piece of a night upon pleasure , is a very unlikely matter . Had he lay 3 nights and dayes in a dungeon , there had been some colour for it .

¶ 3 ) For the [ Morning ] many will plead , Not in the Morning . and so I suppose will you : but I shall oppose this Time , time it how you will , and say what you can for it .

Fath.

I will try that : what if it begin at Spring of day , and end at Dark night ?

Min.

Not so : for in some Countries the day will be a month long : North. for so long at least ( sometime of the year ) does day-light last .

Fath.

What if the Sabbath begin at Sun-rise and end at Sun-set ?

Min.

Not so : for in some Countries the Sabbath would be more than a Month long : In Russia Muscovia & Tartaria . for so long goes the Sun a Circular course round about them in sight , except Clouds come between : as you would easily understand if I had a Globe in my hand .

Fath.

We have Morning and Even all the year : we may begin at morning and end at night .

Min.

Not so : it s no meet measure : for the length of a Sabbath in June , will be twice as long as in December .

Fath.

But if we begin at Six and end at Six , the Sabbaths will be all of a length all the year : now I hope I have hit on it .

Min.

Not so : for a Sabbath must be the Seventh part of Time : a natural day of 24 hours . It is not enough to make one Sabbath equal with another but also equal with another day .

Fath.

Then it must be from morning to morning : from Spring of day to Spring of day : or from Sun rise to Sun rise .

Min.

Not so : for then the precedent day hath two nights : or this precedent night belongs to no day . Not to the seventh day , for that ends at Even : nor to the first day , if it begins in the Morning : and so is cut off from both dayes , like Job's cursed night , which he would have disjoyned from the dayes of the year † † Job 3.6 . . But who dares act so contrary to Gods ordinance ? who dare divide the night from the day ? and Separate what God hath Joyned .

Fath.

I can say no more for the Morning .

Min.

Then we are come to the fourth and last time under Instance , Even , the beginning of the Sabbath . viz , the [ Even : ] and this I affirm to be the beginning of the Sabbath : and from Even to Even is the measure of the Sabbath , from the beginning to the end of the world . At first , where the Sixth day ended , the Seventh day ( successively ) began : so where the Seventh day Sabbath ended ( i e , at Even ) the first day Sabbath began . And thus of Ceremonial Sabbaths : from Even to Even shall ye celebrate your Sabbath * * Lev. 23.32 . .

Fath.

God made the day to beain at Even at first : Object . 1 but aster That world was drowned , and a New world to spring out of the Ark , it seems the beginning of the day was altered to morning : for saith God , Day and night shall not cease † † Gen. 8.22 . . And morning is put before Even in this Psalm * * Ps. 92.2 . : the Title of which is , A Psalm for the Sabbath day : Ergo , the Sabbath begins in the morning .

Min.

God that made the world , made the day to begin at Even , from the beginning to the end of the world , If after this . God alters the order of his Words , that does not alter the order of his Works . Aaron was older than Moses † † Exo. 7.7 . , therefore saith God , These are that Aaron and Moses * * Chap. 26. : in the next verse it is , these are that Moses and Aaron † † Ver. 27. . You may as well say , Aaron was older than Moses at First , but Moses was older than Aaron at Last , while they lived gogether : as to say , The night was before the day at first , but now the day is before the night . ] Honour thy Father and thy mother * * Ex. 20.12 . : the father is put first , for Adam was first formed , then Eve † † 1 Tim. 2.13 . . ( By order of the Creation of Man , and first institution of Marriage , the man is to be older than the woman : else marriages are Monsters . ) Yet God alters his order of words , viz , Ye shall fear every man his Mother and his father * * Lev. 19.3 . : this is because children are more prone to despise their mothers than their fathers . ] Render to Cesar the things that are Cesars , and to God the things that are Gods † † Mar. 12.17 . by your argument Cesar was before God , or to be preferred before him .

Fath.

But some say , Object . 2 The seventh day was not butted and bounded with Even and Morning as the Six dayes were : Ergo , it did not begain at Even as they did : it s a day without night .

Min.

If a man had 7 pound in his purse , Simile . and tells you he hath spent just 6 pound , does he need to tell you what remains ? Simile . If I had 7 dayes natural allowed me to live in a house , and tell you I have spent just 6 nights and 6 dayes , do I need to tell you what remains ? or if I say , a Day remains , is it not ridiculous for you to conclude , it is a day without night ? I am ashamed of such Arguments : if men will make Mists , they deserve to dwell in the Dark .

Fath.

What time in the Even does it begin ?

Min.

Not at Sun set as you may suppose : The time of the Even . but when its dark night : which time is both Scriptural and Rational , i e , it agrees best with Gods Word , and mans Work . This last needs no more proof than mans experience . That its Scriptural , see Scripture . When it began to be dark , Nehemiah commanded the gates of Jerusalem should be shut * * Neh. 13.19 . : i e , that the Merchants might not come in to Sell and break the Sabbath . The gate of the inner court shall be opened on the Sabbath , i e , at Even : and shall not be shut till the Even † † Ezck. 46.1 , 2. . To begin the day at dark night , is Consonant to its beginning at the Creation : the Evening and the morning were 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 one day * * Gen. 1.5 . . The Even or beginning of the night , is put for the whole night : Morning or the beginning of the day , is put for the whole day . N B , The beginning of the day was thus Counted , before the Sun was Created † † Ver. 16. : to signifie , it s not Sun-set that begins the day , but the beginning of darknesse , when light is at an end .

Fath.

In Summer it is day-light all night . Object . 3

Min.

What then ? count the night to begin when it is as dark as it will be , near two hours after Sun-set . Those Northern people who have day-light a month together , and they who have Sun-shine as long ; can count the dayes , and tell when a day begins and ends , by the Circular motion of the Sun .

Fath.

To begin day at dark night is an unsettled Rule , Object . 4 for it is variable all the year long : in December our Sabbath will beain soon after 5 a clock : in June not till Ten.

Min.

It is by the Suns Ascension and Declension , that night comes Sooner and Later , with us on the North of the Line . But thus hath God made the Sun to rule the day : which we are to reckon as good a rule as if the Sun did rise and set all year at the same time . And they that live East or West from us , are to begin their Sabbath when it is Even with them , though it be Morning or Noon with us , that is nothing to them . So we are to begin when it is Even with us , though it be Morning or Noon with them , that is nothing to us : for the Sun rules the day round the world .

¶ This leads me to a Lesson for your Lads , A lesson for Lads . who are apt to think , it is Day and Night , every where at once . To cure this conceit , consider , When it is morning with us , a quarter part of the Circumference of the world East , it is Noon : half way round , it is Even : three quarters round , it is Midnight , quite round we are at home . Or when it is morning with us , a quarter part West , it is Midnight : half way round , it is Even : three quarters round it is Noon . And thus it is Morning , Noon , Even , Midnight at once in 4 parts of the world , any hour of the day .

Fath.

That I perceive : Object . 5 but it seems unfit to begin a Sabbath with night and sleep .

Min.

It does more than Seem unfit , to oppose the order of the Almighty : the God of order . Why do not you argue thus ? It is fit to begin the Sabbath with night , because it is a day of rest . (2) Though it begin with Night , it is not to begin with Sleep : sure there is Prayer and some holy exercise in Gods service to preceed Sleep , if there be any Christianity in a Family . (3) The night is sanctified of God ( for us ) as well as the day , and may be sanctified to God by us : we are to Sleep to God as well as to Wake to God : in so Sleeping God will be glorified , and we may be comforted * * Ps. 63.5 , 6 . (4) Works of Charity and Necessity are lawfull on the Sabbath day : and such are eating , drinking , and sleeping , so much as is meet for us .

Fath.

But the Sabbath must begin in the Morning , because Jesus rose then . Object . 6

Min.

He did not rise in the morning : there is not a Text in the Bible tells you so .

Fath.

You think I never search the Scripture .

Min.

Yes perhaps with a Bible in one hand , and a Pipe of Tabacco in the other : in Pastime , not in Pain , under your ignorance . Men may be Professors and Preachers , and what they will : but except they are pinched to death under their darknesse , and both search and pray to God in good earnest , they are never like to know the mind of God while they live . Lay both hands and heart too to this work , lest you come off with a Curse , and a Blast , for a blessing .

Fath.

I hope you will not deny this Text † † Mar. 16.9 . .

Min.

I hope so too : God for bid I should : but for your satisfaction we will see what all the Evangelists say . Matthew tells us , the two Mary's came to see the sepulchre as it began to dawn towards the first day of the week * * Mat. 28.1 . . ] Mark saith they came at the rising of the Sun † † Mar. 16.2 . . This cannot be the first coming . These saw a young man Sitting . * * Mar. 16.5 . Some saw 2 men Standing † † Lu. 24.4 . . Mary saw 2 Angels Sitting * * Jo. 20.12 . . It seems Several came at Several times . It s probable , Mary Magdalene ( who had most love to Christ and to whom he first appeared † † Mar. 16.9 ) came first along . * * Job . 20.1 . . ] Luke saith they came very early , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , in the depth of the morning † † Lu. 24.1 . : i e , at Cock-crowing . Depth , signifies a thing did in the dark : the morning was deep in the dark : the Spring of day was coming , but there was so much darknesse between , they could not discern it . ] John saith Mary came when it was yet 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , darknesse * * Job . 20.1 . : that is was be before Day ia as clear as the Sun . THEN said the Angels , Why seek ye the living among the dead ? he is not here , but is risen † † Luk. 24.5 , 6. : q d , Long ago . Had Mary come at Midnight , she had heard the same for all you know . None of the Evangelists tell us when Jesus rose . There had been a great eath-quake , for the Angel descended and rolled back the stone * * Mat. 28.2 . : and for fear of him the keepers did shake , and became as dead men † † Ver. 4. : and were revived and gone , for saifh Mary , They have taken away the Lord * * Job . 20.2 . . These things had a time to be acted over : but how long ended before Mary first came ( before day , ) is not expressed . It is now a Maxime , viz , If the day begins in the morning , Jesus did not rise on the first day .

Fath.

Mary's coming to the sepulchre in the morning seems to signifie , Jesus was to rise in the morning .

Min.

Not at all ! it was not the least sign of his rising in the morning : nor came they with any expectation of his Resurrection , but to anoint him † † Mar. 16.1 . , as if he had been to lay in the grave as another dead man . When Jesues foretold his rising from the dead , his Disciples questioned what the rising from the dead should mean * * Chap. 9.10 . . When Jesus told them he should be mocked , spitted on , scourged , put to death , and rise the third day : they understood none of these things . † † Lu. 18.34 . . And when they saw he was risen yet they knew not the Scripture that he must rise again from the dead . * * Job . 20.9 . .

Fath.

But the plainest proof for Christs Resurrection in the morning , you leave out † † Mar. 16.9 . .

Min.

It seems you will bring it in : but it will do you no service , for the support of this opinion . Take this Text as translated , viz , When Jesus was risen early , and the Sense is [ when it was early Jesus was risen ] which does no more prove , Jesus rose in the morning , than to say at noon [ Jesus is risen ] proves he rose at Noon : Or than that saying the next Even the Lord is risen * * Lu. 24.34 . ] proves he rose that Even . Or that expression of Paul so long after Christs Resurrection , [ now is Christ risen † † 1 Cor. 15.20 . ] proves Jesus rose just then .

Fath.

When then do you suppose Jesus rose ?

Min.

I do more than suppose , for I am fully satisfied , Time of Jesus's rising . that Jesus rose from the dead in the Even , when the Jews Sabbath ended , and our Sabbath began : for it is the Resurrection of Jesus that causes the Jews Sabbath to cease , and gives Being and Beginning to our Sabbath : which begins at ●●en , as I have proved . This opinion of Christs ●●●ng at Even , I will prove by the same Scriptur● you produce to prove he rose in the Morning : viz , Jesus was risen early the first day * * Mar. 16.9 . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 signifies both [ early and morning . ] Sometimes when fo is translated morning , it signifies a time long before day : eg , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 in the morning rising up a great while before day † † Mar. 1.35 . . [ The first day ] does not properly expresse the Original : 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , the first of the Sabbath , ie , the first Time or beginning of the Sabbath . N B , I am A & Ω , the beginning and the end , the first and the last * * Rev. 22.13 . : beginning and first are One , end all last are One , and all signifie Christs Eternity : the former signifies , he is From everlasting , the latter that he is To everlasting . This is to shew you that by [ first ] the beginning of the day is intended . And this 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 first , is sometimes translated [ beginning ; ] eg , the latter end is worse than 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , the beginning † † 2 Pet. 2.20 . . And thus we are to take this Text * * Mar. 16.9 . , Jesus rose early , a great while before day , at the first , or beginning of the Sabbath . ] If some Critick was in our company , he would tell us , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Sabbath , signifies sometimes a week : e g , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , I fast twice on the Sabbath † † Lu. 18.12 : i e , two dayes a week . Here its necessary to understand it a week , for its improper to say , I fast twice a day : but there is no necessity of such a Sense here * * Mar. 16.9 . : yet if I grant it , all is One , for the beginning of the week , and of the Sabbath is at the Same time .

¶ For farther satisfaction , N B , Jesus was Buried at Even . And it was at the very End of the day : for the day being almost at end , and Christ with his companions still on the Crosse , the Jews being netled with fear they should hang there on their high Sabbath , besought Pilate that their legs might be broken † † Job . 19.31 . , and so dispatched . Then came the Souldiers and braks the legs of the theeves * * Ver. 32. : but seeing Jesus dead , brake not his legs † † Ver. 33. : but one of them with a spear pierced his side * * Ver. 34. : q d , Thou hangest here like a hypocrite , feigning thy self dead to save thy Shanks , but I will give thee a touch shall try thee . Now in the place where Jesus was crucified was a garden , and in the garden a sepulchre , there laid they Jesus , for the sepulchre was nigh at hand † † Ver. 41 , 42. . They hurried him into that hole being hard by , and had not time to carry him farther , because their Sabbath was about to begin . Luke saith , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , the Sabbath began to shine * * Luk. 23.54 . , i e , with Star-light , At this Juncture of time , when that day ended , and the next began , was Jesus buried : Ergo , Jesus must needs rise in the Even , to complete the time Prefixt for his laying dead .

Fath.

If Jesus rose in the Even , he lay but a day and a night in the grave : for he was buried at end of the Sixth day , and ( by your count ) rose at end of the Seventh day : how then did he fulfill his word in rising on the third day ?

Min.

Jesus did fulfill his word , and we must believe it , if we understand it not more than the mystery of the Trinity . But why do you say Jesus died on the Sixth day ?

Fath.

O! the Scripture is plain ! he died the day before the Seventh day Sabbath . And I have seen it thus confirmed by the learned : viz , Adam fell on the Sixth day , proved by this Text † † Ps. 49.12 . : and the Paschal lamb was slain on the Sixth day , and Jesus died on the Sixth day , and all about the same hour . These are Parallel proofs . Adam's fall on the Sixth day , and the Lambs death on the Sixth day , prove Jesus's death on the Sixth day : and Jesus's death on the Sixth day , proves Adams fall on the Sixth day : as Jesus must dye [ virtually ] that day and hour Adam sinned , so [ actually ] that day and hour of the week . This mutual harmony makes all very clear .

Min.

As pithily proved as if you had said , The King of Spain and forty thousand men : Went up the Hill and then came down agen .

What a fine story is here ! and very clear : as sometime a thing looks , for want of light to look on it . Simile . There is a sort of rotten wood , that shines at Night : but you see no lustre in it at Noon . That the Paschal lamb was slain on the Sixth day , as saith your Author , see his pithy proof * * Ex. 12.6 . : which Text tells the day of the Month , not of the Week . And whether he falsisies , Ainsworth on Exod Pag. 37. Ainsworth , whom he quotes for his Author ; I leave it with you to look . That Jesus was virtually slain as soon as Adam sinned , Ideny not : no doubt he undertook for man before man was † † Pro. 8.23 Rev. 3.14 . : but that Jesus's death which was 4000 years after mans fall , must needs be on that day and hour of the week on which man fell , I reject as ridiculous . If such had said , Jesus Rose on the week , day and hour that Adam Fell , it had carried a fairer colour . If men must search as far as the foundation of the world , for a foundation to falsifie the day of Christs death ; it is pity they are not better busied . But if Adam's fall on the Sixth day . be a proof for Christs death on the Sixth day : let us lay aside the day of Christs death a little , and begin with Adams fall .

¶ 1 ) Adam was a glorious piece of Gods creation : Adam's Fall . his Soul and Body was an Epitomy of Heaven and Earth : and an house for God to inhabit . To say Adam fell on the Sixth day , is to liken God his Maker to a foolish Builder : who lets the house fall under his hand before he can finish it .

¶ 2 ) It seems by Sacred Scripture , that neither Adam nor Angels fell on the Sixth day : for in the conclusion of the Creation , at the Close of the Sixth day , God saw every thing that he had made , and behold it was very good : and the evening and the morning were the Sixth day * * Gen. 1.31 . : There is the Close up of the whole Creation complete .

¶ 3 ) As it seems by Scripture , Adam fell not on the Sixth day , so it seems by Scripture , he fell on the Seventh day : and that is my perswasion . And I will produce no other proof for it , than the same Scripture your Author brings to prove Adam fell on the Sixth day : viz , that Hebrew Text 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Adam in honour did not abide a night † † Ps. 49.12 . . It seems he fell that first night , which was on the first Sabbath day natural , which began at Even .

¶ Note Satans old enmity against the Sabbath . Satans enmity at the Sabbath . (1) He mystically murdered Adam and all his posterity , on the first Sabbath that ever was . (2) The first Bodily murder ( we know of ) in the world , Satan acted by the hand of his servant Cain on the Sabbath day : and for a Sabbath dayes service , as I suppose by this Text 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 in the end of dayes * * Gen. 4.3 . the Seventh day was the end of dayes , for there never was more than 7 dayes . (3) Satan sets his Servants a work many wayes to break the Sabbath . And this enmity is not onely against Gods Sabbath , but also against mans Soul . In indignation against both , this great governour drives on , as if he would drive all before him into Hell fire . At his command , they curse , swear , whore , pot , pipe , prate , sport , work , play , walk at pleasure : all which paths lead to the Lake of fire . The Sabbath is spent as if it was the Devils day , and not Gods day . It is the Devils great Trading day for Hell , and the wickeds great Treasuring day for Wrath : for sin on Other dayes , does not fill the Vials of Gods wrath so fast as it doth on This day . Adde to all , Satans provoking his servants to persecute Saints on Sabbath dayes for the Service of God : disturbing them in their meetings , haling them to Prisions , for using the liberty Christ hath given them . (4) Satan is very busie with Saints on Sabbath dayes . He tempts them to work , and buy , and sell , when the Sabbath is begun in the Evening . To lay in Bed in the morning . To trifle away time when they are Up. To talk of controversies , Saints both sleep and wake to Satan . and impertineneies : to absent from Sermons : to Sleep to him at Sermons to Wake to him at Sermons , by wandring thoughts , a thousands wayes . Here you may see by what spirit they are acted that are opposite to the Sabbath day . Mr A and Mr L did not tell you they came with a message from the Devil yesterday to disturb you in your duty . But let us proceed to the day of Christs death .

¶ Here let me premise a few Cautions . Cautions premised . (1) Do not reflect on any thing that seems improbable : for it may be True though at first it seem false . Nor any thing that seems impertinent ( q d , to what purpose is this ? prove the Point ) for it may be to some purpose though it presently appear not . (2) This being an intricate point , for its clearing , some Scriptures must be opened , and some reconciled , which cannot be done with few words : in which I must crosse my Self , for I affect to contract things in few words . (3) It being new and contrary to the commmon Creed , you will Object your All against it : your Objections you must hear orderly answered , or it will be in vain to offer them . (4) Be very punctual in observing the day of the month I shall have occasion to speak of , with its beginning and ending : else I speak into the Air. If I digresse , or go forward or back ward from any Day or Thing before I have done with it ; care not to carry it in your head , for I shall bring you to it again . In a word , before I proceed , resolve to hear all , or none at all .

Fath.

I will hear what you have to say .

Min.

To introduce the day of Christs death , Of the day of Christs Death . I must begin with its lively Type , viz , The Lords Passe-over . This from its first institution , was on the 14 day of the first month , Abib , or Nisan , according to that Sacred account from the time of Israel's deliverance out of Egypt † † Ex. 12.2 . . The Paschal lamb was to be taken up on the 10 day * * Ver. 3. , and kept till the 14 day † † Ver. 6. : probably that the sight of it might occasion Soul preparation . And it was to be killed in the Evening * * Ver. 6. : Heb 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 between the two Evenings : i e , say some , Sun-set , and Dark night . ] Short work ! though they eat it in hast , I do not think they prepared it in Post-hast .

Fath.

What 2 Evens else had they ?

Min.

The division of the day by hours , was not used when the Passeover was commanded : the word [ hour ] except in Daniel ) is not in the O T. But they divided the day into 3 parts , called Morning , Noon , Even † † Ps. 55.17 . : from 6 to 10 was Morning , from 10 to 2 was Noon , from 2 to 6 at night was Even . The beginning and end of this last part , were the two Evens between which the Lamb was killed : and it was eat at night * * Ex. 12.8 . . Our Lord Jesus who came to fulfill the Law : kept this Passeover according to Law : he commanded his Disciples to kill and prepare it upon the 14 day , and he eat it with them at Night when the 15 day began † † Mat. 26.17 to 20. Mar. 14.12 to 17. Luk. 22.7 to 14. .

Fath.

You say I must punctually observe the day of the month : how shall I know the 14 day ended , and the 15 day began that Even ?

Min.

Very easily . Pharoh rose up in the night , * * Ex. 12.30 , and they were thrust out of Egypt . † † Ver. 39. . that night in which they eat the Passeover . And they departed from Rameses in the first month , on the 15 day of the month : on the morrow after the Passeover * * Nu. 33.3 . ¶ Here its necessary to Note , viz , A Day in Scripture falls under a two-fold consideration . (1) An Artificial day of 12 hours , from 6 to 6 : of this , Jesus speaks thus , Are there not 12 hours in the day ? † † Job . 11.9 . (2) A Natural day of 24 hours , from Even to Even : of this , Jesus speaks this night , Verily I say unto thee , that this Day , even in this Night before the Cock crow twice , thou shalt deny me thrice * * Mar. 14.30 . . Christ calls the night , Day : ie , the Dark part of the natural day . THIS night Jesus Eat the Passeover , Insticuted the Supper † † M. 26.26 . , Foretold the Traitor at the Table * * Lu. 22.21 . , Washed his Disciples feet † † Job . 13.4 . . Preached his Funeral Sermon for his Disciples consolation * * Chap. 14 , 15 , 16. , Concluded it with Prayer † † Chap. 17. . Then went out over the brook Cedron * * Ch. 18.1 . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , which word signifies black , sad : over this brook David the Beloved passed , when his life was pursued : at which all the Countrey wept with a loud voice † † 2 Sa. 15.23 . . Then to the mount of Olives , near 2 miles from Jerusalem . * * M. 26.30 . Mar. 11.1 . Job . 11.18 . . NO rest ! I have a ( bloody ) baptism to be baptized with , and How am I straitened till it be accomplished ! † † Lu. 12.50 . Then to Gethsemance , exceeding sorrowfull even unto deaht , fell on his face and prayed , O my Father ! Did sweat quasi Great drops of blood falling down to the ground † † Lu. 22.44 . , while his Disciples Sleep . Then goes into a Garden * * Job . 18.1 . : to which Judas ( with his Cabal ) came , with Lanterns , Torches , and Weapons † † Ver. 3. : where the Second Adam was taken in such a place as the First Sinned . Christ was carried away with such an uproar , as raised a young man out of his Bed with his Sheet about his back , to see the Sight * * Mar. 14.51 . . Jesus was led bound to Annas first † † Jo. 18.13 , who sent him bound to Caiaphas the high Priest * * Ver. 24. , and with him were assembled all the chief Priests , Elders and Scribes † † Mk. 14.53 Scaliger . , probably to keep the Passeover that night . Jesus was mocked , ¶ Mat. 26.20 to end . Mar. 14.17 to end . Lu. 22.14 , to 66. Jo. 13.1 , to Ch. 18.28 . blindfolded , buffeted , spit in the face : fear makes the Disciples forsake him , and Peter deny him , for which he wept bitterly . This is an Epitomy of that nights proceedings : of which at leasure , read at Large ¶ . ¶ In the morning the Jews consulted and delivered Jesus to Pilate the Roman Deputy † † Mar. 15.1 , to fulfill this Saying , they shall deliver him to the Gentiles to Crucifie * * M. 20.19 . Pilate sent him to Herod † † Lu. 23.7 . , he mocked him and sent him again to Pilate * * Ver. 11. , he examines him , finds no fault in him † † Ver. 4. , would fain release him , but the violent vox populi was such , that he delivered Jesus to be Crucified * * Mat. 27.24 , 25 , 26. . THEN they Stripped him , Crowned his head with thorns , Smote him , Spit upon him , and ( I suppose ) plucked off his Beard † † Isa. 50.6 . Ezra 9.3 . Neh. 13.25 . . And at the third hour nailed him to the Crosse .

Fath.

What time of the day was that ?

Min.

The Jews counted their day of 12 hours , The Jews count of Lesser hours , 12 in a day . from our Six in the morning to Six at night thus , 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 , as we do from mid-day to mid-night . Our 6 in the morning is their 12 , so that their third hour is at 9 a clock .

Fath.

But John saith , It was about the Sixth hour before Jesus was Crucified * * Jo. 19.14 . .

Min.

They had another way to divide the day : The Jews Greater hours , 4 in a day . Godwyn . viz , as they divided the night of 12 hours into 4 watches , so they divided the day of 12 hours into 4 quarters : each one Watch and Quarter contained 3 hours . These quarters were called Great hours : and took their name from the last of the 3 hours which closed the quarter . The first , from their 12 to 3 , was called the third hour : this is with us from 6 to 9. The second quarter , from 3 to 6 , was called the Sixth hour : with us from 9 to 12. Mark means the end of the third hour , at 9 a clock : John means the beginning of the Sixt hour , which begins when the third hour ends : and thus they agree . John tells not the hour of Jesus's Death : but Matthew , Mark and Luke all agree , that it was After the ninth hour † † M 27.45 Mar. 15.34 Lu. 23.44 . , i e , after 3 a clock afternoon : & buried at Even . ¶ Now we must take a step back ( Just a day long ) to the Even when Jesus eat the Passeover , and so proceed . At this Even when the 14 day ended and the 15 day began , then began the first day of the 7 dayes of unleavened bread * * Ex. 12.18 Lev. 23.6 . Nu. 28.17 . Ez. 45.21 . .

Fath.

Why then is the 14 day called the first day of unleavened bread ? † † Mar. 14.12 .

Min.

Partly because it was prefixt , and joyned to them : and partly because the Passe . over was killed on the 14 day , which was eat with unleavened bread at Even , or beginning of the first day of unleavened bread . And so sometimes all the 8 dayes are called dayes of unleavened bread † † Act. 12.3 . : and sometimes the feast of unleavened bread * * Lu. 22.1 . . But the dayes of unleavened bread ( properly so called ) were but 7 , and exactly bounded † † Exo. 12.18 . . N B , The first day of the 7 was the Feast of the Passeover . In the 14 day of the first month is the Passeover : and in the 15 day of this month is the Feast * * Nu. 28.16 , 17. . ] Now before the Feast of the Passeover † † Joh. 13.1 , Jesus instituted the Supper , gave Judas a Sop , and after the sop Satan entred into him : then said Jesus , That thou doest , do quickly * * Ver. 26 , 27. . Hence ( he bearing the Bag ) some thought Jesus had said , Buy those things that we have need of against the Feast † † Ver. 29. . N B , The first and last of these 7 dayes were holy Convocations : Seven dayes shall ye eat unleavened bread : in the First day there shall be an holy Convocation , and in the Seventh day there shall be an holy Convocation * * Exo. 12.15 , 16. . These were Ceremonial Sabbaths , and commonly called Sabbaths . But it s the first day of the 7 , which falls under our consideration : viz , the 15 day of the month , which you may see called a Sabbath † † Lev. 23.11 , 15. . N B , THIS is the Sabbath which the Jews made to follow Jesus's Funeral : and which you suppose to be the 7 day Sabbath .

Fath.

Suppose ! Ay : well ! let that passe at present . Then it seems this Sabbath should have been that day on which Jesus died .

Min.

It s well observed : and by this I see you observe what I say . The 15 day of the month on which Jesus died , was the day : but they deferred it to the day following , and called the 15 day , preparation day * * Jo. 19.42 .

Fath.

Why did they so ?

Min.

As when a fixt Fair falls on Sunday , Jews Translation . the Countrey keeps it on Munday ; so if this Passeover Sabbath , fixed on the 15 day of the month , fell on some certain dayes of the week , the Jews had a Custome to Translate it to the next day , by their Rule 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Badu † † Godwyn . : of which one Eleazar is said to be the Author , who lived 350 years before Christs Birth * * Hospinian de Orig fest. P6 . . N B , That this Sabbath was thus translated , a man can no more deny , than he can deny the Day to Spring , or the Sun to Shine .

Fath.

I cannot deny it : but then I believe it was translated from the 6 day to the 7 day : and so a double Sabbath , Ceremonial and Moral : and on that account called a high day † † Joh. 19.31 . .

Min.

That I deny , and this I affirm ; The high Sabbath no Sabbath . that ( as to the Day ) it was no Sabbath at all ( Ceremonial nor Moral ) but one of their own invention . Hence sometime it hath no Sabbatical Title : e g , John speaking of the day of Jesus's death , saith , It was the preparation of the Passeover * * Joh. 19.14 . : it s no more but Passeover . Matthew speaking of this high Sabbath , calls it , The next day that followed the day of Preparation † † Mat. 27.62 . , Strange ! a Sabbath ! a Double Sabbath ! a High day ! and no other Title but [ the next day . ] Thus God is pleased to drop words , to see what notice men will take of them .

Fath.

HOW ! no Sabbath ! why then is it called a High Day ?

Min.

The right day was a high day , for on it Israel went out of Egypt with an high hand * * Exo. 14.8 Why a High Sabbath . . And it was for a Monument of their miraculous deliverance : e g , This day shall be unto you for a Memorial † † Ch. 12.14 . ] Remember this day in which ye came out from Egypt * * Ch. 13.3 . . ] And thou shalt shew thy son , &c † † Ver. 8. . ] And it shall be for a Sign unto thee upon thine hand , and for a Memorial between thine eyes * * Ver. 9. . And many such Solemn injunctions , to remember this day with wonder : viz , That Pharoh who stood so many a Storm , like a person Plague-Proof , should rise up in the night † † Ch. 12.30 , and call for Moses and Aaron , and say , Go serve the Lord as Ye have said * * Ver. 31. : also take your Flocks , and your Herds , as Ye have said , and be gone , and blesse me also † † Ver. 32. . That six hundred thousand men , besides women and children , should be pulled out of Prison , from two hundred years Tyranny , and all in One night : a night INDEED ! to be much observed to the Lord * * Ver. 42. . Upon this account , that Sabbath day was an High day † † Joh. 19.31 . . Good Josiah , and some few Princely Persons , spent at this Passeover , oxen , bullocks , and small cattel , forty one thousand , 41400 cattel killed . and four hundred * * 2 Chro. 35.7 , 8 , 9. : this was an High day . And whether they kept the right day or the wrong , it was all one in their esteem : they pretended Reason , for its Translation . And in case of necessity , Hezekiah translated this Passeover to the Second month † † 2 Chro. 30.2 . : and in such case there was an allowance * * Num. 9.6 to 11. . N B , This temporal deliverance on the 15 day , was a Type of Eternal deliverance by Christs death on the same day of the year . And though this temporal deliverance was long before Christs death , yet it was by Vertue of Christs death , who was [ virtually ] slain before the First Passeover was killed . This then should have been an High day on Christs account : but him the carnal Jews laid Low : they killed Christ on the Right day , and kept the Passeover Sabbath on the Wrong .

Fath.

Blesse us ! no Sabbath ! but the Scripture calls it a Sabbath .

Min.

So does the Scripture call the Devil Samuel , 5 times in few words † † 1 Sam. 28.12 to 20. Satan called Samuel . : and does not once tell us it was the Devil . In calling the Devil , Samuel , God tells us what Saul , and the Witch called him : and leaves it with us to Judge , whether a wicked Silly Witch had power to bring Samuel , Soul and Body from Heaven and Earth . So in calling that a Sabbath , God tells us what the Jews called it : and leaves it with us to Judge , whether Jesus or the Jews were likest to break Gods Law . If that was a C Sabbath ( not translated ) Jesus was a Sinner , not a Saviour .

Fath.

I know not what to say of the translation of the day . But for Jesus's dying on the 6 day , the Scripture is clear : besides invincible Arguments , I have yet to bring . The Scripture saith , Jesus rose on the first day , you dare not deny it : and though it does not say Jesus died on Fryday , or the 6 day , yet in saying he died the day before the Sabbath , and rose in the end of the Sabbath * * Mat. 28.1 , I think it s as plain as if the 6 day had been named .

Min.

Mistake not the State of our difference . We differ not about the day of Jesus's Resurrection , except the Time of the day : viz , you for the Morning the midst of the day , I for the Even the beginning of the day . But our difference is in the day of Jesus's Death : you say it was on the 6 day : I deny it , and do plainly tell you , your proof by Inference from Scripture , is no better than a Blind Conjecture . Let me hear your invincible Arguments also .

Fath.

I have read in learned Authors , The Rd Bp of — for One. that the two dayes which bounded the feast of 7 weeks , viz , the first day and the 50 day , fell ( that year ) both on the first day of the week . That the first day of the 50 followed the Passeover Sabbath , is as clear as the Sun † † Lev. 23.11 , 15. : seeing Jesus rose on that first day , and lay dead on the 7 day , and died the day before ; it s also as clear as the Sun , that he died on the 6 day . Moreover , saith my Author , The resurrection was Tipified to be on the first day of the 50 by the Wave-Sheaf ( of first fruits ) which was a pregnant Type of Christs resurrection on that day , who was waved before the Lord by the Earthquake at his rising that morning , and called the first fruits * * 1 Cor. 15.20 . . And the 50 day , that famous Pentecost , was Sealed for a New Sabbath by the gift of the holy Ghost to the Apostles : by vertue of which , 3000 souls † † Act 2.41 . were converted as first fruits to God and the Lamb. ] And this Harmony hath been a Confirmation of this opinion , viz , Christs death on the Sixth day , for many generations .

Min.

If so , its high time it was laid low . I hope the best of that Bp: he was no horned Beast : but this his opinion I approve not . If I had no better foundation for my opposite opinion ( I am not ashamed to tell you ) I should be ashamed to own it . This is such another Proof as Adams fall was : and to as much purpose as the Story in the Greek Epigram : viz [ Two deaf men pleaded a Cause before a deaf Judge . ] But let us look on these 50 dayes , The 50 dayes discussed . in the letter of the Law . And ye shall count unto you from the morrow after the Sabbath , from the day that ye brought the Sheaf of the Wave-offering , 7 Sabbaths shall be complete : even unto the morrow after the seventh Sabbath , shall ye number 50 dayes * * Lev. 23.15 , 16. . This morrow or Wave-day is the first of the 50 dayes : 7 weeks is 49 dayes : the morrow after the seventh Sabbath is the fiftieth day ( as the Greek word Pentecost signifies ) and when the day of Pentecost was Fully come † † Act. 2.1 . , i e , when the seventh Sabbath was past , the 7 weeks were complete , then the Pentecost was fully come . N B , The 50 day begins another week on the same day of the week that the first day of the 50 began the first week of the 7 : so that the first day and 50 day fall both on the same day of the week . This a Child can tell , but I mind you of it ( though a man ) that you may see , your 2 great dayes for confirmation of your opinion , Stand and Fall together . And now I tell you , these 2 dayes did not fall on the first day of the week . Your famous Pentecost fell Not on the first day . But why do I talk ? let us to work . That the Passeover was killed on the 14 day , that the Passeover Sabbath was on the 15 day on which Jesus died , and that the Sheaf was waved on the 16 of Nisan ; is as plain as A B C : by your rule , Jesus rose from the dead the next day after his death : buried at Even , and rose in the Morning . But suppose Jesus had rose on this Shake-sheaf day † † As your Author calls it . , yet what Type of Christs resurrection was this Sheaf ? there was an he-lamb without blemish * * Lev. 23.12 . offered on that day too , which was as much a Type of Christs Death on that day , as the Sheaf could be of his Resurrection : by this rule Jesus both died and rose in a day : into what a wildernesse will the wit of man lead us ! N B , This wave-day ( on which you say Jesus rose ) was the first day he lay in the grave : if your Author had said , The lamb was a Type of Jesus's death Before that day , and the wave-sheaf a Type of his resurrection After that day , there had been some shadow of Reason in his assertion . So you may see , that your Pentecost proof is perished : and your invincible Arguments , are overcome .

Fath.

You say the Jews translated the Passeover to the next day : did they not also translate the Pentecost from their Sabbath to our Sabbath ? and so make it fall on the first day .

Min.

If so , that proves a false Pentecost to fall on the first day : but it s no proof for Christs resurrection on the Wave-day : nor is the Pentecost to be reckoned from Christs resurrection ( as our Calender men count ) but the 16 of Nisan is the Standing Rule to count the Pentecost from . Calender count false . (2) If the Pentecost fell on the 7 day Sabbath , the Jews would translate it to the first day , by their rule 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Gahaz : Godwyn . but that year , the Pentecost did not fall on the 7 day , nor on the first day : not on their Sabbath , nor on Ours neither .

Fath.

If the Pentecost fell not on the first day why did the Disciples observe it , and countenance Ceremonies which were to cease ?

Min.

The Disciples being few , about 120 † † Act. 1.15 . , were at Jerusalem , because Christ had commanded them to continue there * * Ver. 4. . The Pentecost being an holy Convocation , in which work was forbid † † Lev. 23.21 . , the Disciples might meet on that day , though the Pentecost was to cease : as a Church may do now if work be forbid by Authority , though they approve not the day . (2) Suppose the Pentecost not to be observed , yet the Disciples might not understand the cessation of Ceremonies so suddenly : they were hardly brought off Ceremonies some years after . (3) The Pentecost keeping the day of the month , changed the day of the week every year ; and could not be on the first day 2 years together : Paul's Pentecost practice . yet it was Pauls yearly practice to be at Jerusalem at Pentecost . e g , I will tarry at Ephesus untill Pentecost , for a great door and effectual is opened unto me * * 1 Cor. 16.8 , 9. , i e , at Ephesus : and yet , q d , I will tarry but till Pentecost , and then I am for Jerusalem . ] When they desired him to tarry longer with them , he consented not : but bad them farewell , saying , I must by All means keep this Feast that cometh , in Jerusalem † † Act. 18.20 , 21. . ] Paul hasted , if it were Possible for him , to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost * * Ch. 20.16 . Not because it was the first day , as your Authors imagine of this † † Act. 2.1 . : for the first day was the unlikest day of All for Christians to regard the Pentecost , after Christs resurrection : because on that day they met in remembrance of That . Nor to support the Pentecost , though he went on the account of no other day : but for advantagious opportunities of preaching Jesus to the Jews . Paul could call the Gentiles together , but he could not command the Jews : therefore he would watch for such Prizes as Ceremonial Sabbaths pun into his hands , by bringing the multitude together . And sometime ( for his encouragement ) he had liberty of preaching in their Synagogue on a Sabbath freely offered : the rulers of the Synagogue sent unto them , saying , Ye men and brethren , if ye have any word of exhortation for the people , say on : then Paul stood up ( as in his Element ) and said , Men of Israel , give audience * * Act. 13.15 , 16. . And Paul thought good to smile on some Ceremonies for a season : for the Jews , Carnal nor Spiritual could endure their Ceremonies should be suddenly forsaken . Thou seest brother how many Thousands of Jews there are that believe , and they are All zealous of the Law † † Act. 21.20 . , i e , the C L : so the Christians counselled Paul to countenance them , and he did so * * Ver. 23 , 26. . Not to uphold Ceremonies , but to get an interest in their affections , that by degrees as they could bare it he might bring them Off : and had he not done so , they had cast him off . Thus to the Jews he became a Jew to gain the Jews † † 1 Cor. 9.20 . .

Fath.

But if Pentecost was not on the first day , why did God countenance it by giving the Disciples the holy Ghost on that day ?

Min.

Because I would not onely Silence , but also Satisfie you ; I have been willing to give you all the advantage I can , by stating things fairly for you : and will do so still . Suppose then the Disciples met contrary to the mind of God , and knew it : yet for fear or favour of the magisterial Jews , they conform to keep the Pentecost : if God will be gracious , what then ? I will not again curse the ground for mans sake , for the imagination of mans heart is evil from his youth * * Gen. 8.21 . ] Let my Lord I pray thee go among us , for it is a Stiff-necked people † † Ex. 34.9 . . Strange Arguments ! Gods Word is mans rule , but Gods Will is Gods rule : and if God will be gracious to man , when man walks contrary to his Will ; will man say , Lord what doest thou mean to have mercy on me ? Will man call God to his Bar ? and bring him into judgement for his mercy . Mercy or judgment , if it be the will of God , it is just . Yea if God should command man contrary to his own command : e g , If God will forbid man to murder upon pain of Death , and then command a man to kll his own Son * * Gen. 22.2 , who will say unto him , What doest thou ? † † Job 9.12 . God did not make man , to consult what promises God should make to man : nor when he should fulfill them . God gave the Disciples a promise of the Spirit : and he took this time [ Pentecost ] to fulfill it . ¶ 2 ) I would form a foundation for a Question , for your consideration . viz , The 50 dayes bounded Harvest ; the first day was at Beginning of harvest : begin to number the 7 weeks from such time as thou beginnest to put the Sickle to the Corn * * Deu. 16.9 . . The fiftieth day was at End of harvest . Harvest was in the land of Canaan : a Type of Heaven . The 50 dayes contained 7 Sabbaths , a number noting Perfection . These dayes were all linked to the Passeover : and all Typical of eternal life . Jesus began to observe this time ( with the Passeover ) before his death . It being so , Quere . I Quere whether this Pentecost was not to be kept , that God might give the Disciples a little Heaven on Earth , to signifie what an eternal Sabbath they should have in Heaven , Typified by these preceeding Sabbaths , which at this day Pentecost were consummated . If you can Answer this Question in the Affirmative , then your Question [ Why did God countenance the Pentecost ] is resolved .

Fath.

I may take it into consideration another time . But , Suppose the Jews did not translate the Passeover Sabbath , it fell on the 7 day Sabbath : then they kept the 15 day , and Jesus rose the 16 , and Wave-day : this proves Pentecost on the first day , and Christs death on the 6 day too .

Min.

Now I can follow you no farther : I dare not Say the word [ suppose ] in this case : nor dare I think such a wicked thought . But though I dare not Follow you , I dare Meet , and withstand you to the Face . If you say the Jews kept the right day , you say Jesus kept the wrong day . If you say the Jews did not Translate the Passeover to the day after the right day , you say Jesus did Anticipate it the day before the right day : viz , Jesus died on the 14 day , and killed the Passeover on the 13 day contrary to the Law . In so saying , you make Jesus a Transgressor . Thus by justifying the Jews , and condemning Jesus , you hope to Hit it . Monstrum ! Horrendum ! this proof comes from the bottomlesse Pit : and there being no other way in the world to prove your opinion , rather than fail , you will make Jesus the Saviour , and actual Sinner : at which attempt what is that heart that will not tremble ! Should you Suppose , You and I are now in the East-Indies , or , London stands on the Main Ocean , or , there is no difference between Heaven and Hell , I would as soon consent .

Fath.

But we may Reason , and Question : Christ was Lord of the Sabbath , and had power to change the Sabbath : might not he change the Passeover and be no transgressor ?

Min.

Though Jesus was Lord of the Sabbath , he was made under the Law † † Gal. 4.4 . , and Subject to it . Though he was the Sabbaths Lord , the Law was his Lord , and had him at command , on which account it was honourable * * Isa. 42.21 . . And though Jesus changed the Sabbath , it was not while he was under the Law : but at his Resurrection , when he had fulfilled it . Jesus stood in mans stead : he was a debtor to the whole Law : the payment of which debt the Law required ot the last mite . Christs person is taken into custody , imprisoned in the grave , till the debt be discharged , and justice satisfied : at his resurrection ( being acquitted ) he was taken from prison and from judgment † † Isa. 53.8 . : alluding to a debtour who hath satisfied the creditour . Then Jesus changed the Sabbath .

Fath.

It seems Jesus justified his Disciples in an unlawfull deed on the Sabbath day : for they eat Other mens Corn * * Mat. 12.1 .

Min.

Not in the Least ! the Law allowed that deed : e g , When thou comest into the standing corn of thy neighbours , then thou mayst pluck the ears with thine hand † † Deut. 23.25 . . As for Davids eating the Shew-bread , and the Priests prosaning the Sabbath by killing their Sacrifices * * Mat. 12.3 , 4 , 5. ; these according to the Letter of the Law were unlawful , but not according to the Sense of the law ; which provided liberty for works of Charity and Necessity . And Jesus in pleading these practices to excuse his Disciples , doth q d , You count David and the Priests blamelesse in these necessitous acts , and yet condemn my Disciples in the same Case .

Fath.

But Jesus refused to go up to the feast of Tabernacles † † Job . 7.8 . , which Law he was under as well as this of the Passeover : and if he could dispense with That , why not with This ?

Min.

Jesus refused to go up by way of vain Ostentation , as his unbelieving brethren would needs have him go , for say they , Shew thy self to the World * * Ver. 4. : that Jesus resused , saying , Go ye up to this feast † † Ver. 8. , q d , by way of Ostentation if you will it being so Fashionable the world cannot hate you * * Ver. 7. for it , they will love their won . (2) Jesus refused to go with Them , because the Jews sought to kill him † † Ver. 1. : not at the feast for fear of an uprore * * Mat. 26.5 : but to Way-lay him , q d , He will come with his kindred as other people use to do , and so we shall Snap him by the way . Therefore said Jesus , I go not up Yet to this feast : q d , till Ye are gone , for my time is not yet fully come † † Job . 7.8 . : q d , my Meet time to go , or my time to be Taken , when it is I shall not seek to Save my self . But when his brethren were gone up , then went he also up unto the feast , not openly * * Ver. 10. , i e , by the way , for at Jerusalem about the Midst of the feast , Jesus went up into the Temple and taught * * Ver. 14. . And in the last day , that Great day of the feast , Jesus stood and cryed , saying , If any man thirst , let him come to me and drink * * Ver. 37. . So you see , Jesus did not refuse to go up to this feast .

Fath.

But you have said , Hezekiah changed the Passeover , in case of necessity † † Pag 253. .

Min.

Hezekiah's Salvation did not depend upon his perfect obedience to the Law : if it had , he had never been Saved : but upon Christs perfect obedience , without which , He nor We shall never be Saved .

Fath.

If Christ kept the Passeover a Day before the Right day , he kept it .

Min.

Suppose you say to a Servant , Do such a work to Morrow . No Sir , faith he , I will do it to day . Nay , say you , I am resolved to have it done to Morrow . Away goes he and does it to Day : does this servant Obey or Disobey you ?

Fath.

I confesse he Disobeys me , even in doing the work which I command him .

Min.

How many times hath God plainly expressed his mind in this matter ! in the Law which Jesus was under : viz , That the Passeover should be killed the 14 day of the month : by your Own confession , Christ was disobedient if he changed the day . N B , Suppose you could prove , Jesus did Anticipate the Passeover and not sin ; and that the Jews kept the 15 day ; yet except you prove the 15 day of the month to be the 7 day of the week , you neither prove Jesus rose on the Wave-day , nor Pentecost on the first day , nor Jesus's death on the 6 day : and so you are never the near . But if Jesus had brake any Sabbath , or Law of God in the Least ; he could not have been in the Least , any Saviour † † Ja. 2.10 . . And that Jesus failed in the least Jota , Jod , Point , or Tittle ; is folly , wickednesse , madnesse in a man once to imagine . Before Christ would have broken any Command , he ( upholding the whole Creation ) would have let Heaven and Earth fall : for had he failed a Tittle of fulfilling the whole Law , Gods purpose of Salvation had fell . ERGO , this is an infallible Maxime , A Maxime . viz , On the 14 day of the first month Nisan , Christ killed the Passeover , according to All the Rites of it * * Nu. 9.3 . : and on the 15 day he was killed himself : the 16 and Wave-day , was the first day Jesus lay dead , therefore he rose not That day , nor could Pentecost fall on the first day . So your Pentecost opinion is utterly overthrown : and that for Jesus's death on the 6 day will follow : and you shall never recover them again while the World stands .

Fath.

I confesse I cannot at present tell what more to plead , for One or Other . But though you deny Jesus died on the 6 day , you do not declare on what other day he died .

Min.

Nor was it proper for me out of the place : every thing beautifull in his time † † Eccl. 3.11 . . I could easily have done that at first in few words : but the work was to Answer your Objections against my Judgment : and your Arguments for your Own . Having done that , I can shew my Opinion with pleasure : but not with submission to better judgments , as some finely phrase it . When I speak my thoughts of what I am uncertain , it shall be with such submission : but when I am well assured of the truth of what I say , I shall neither submit to better nor worse , to Stand or Fall , by this or that mans perswasion . I desire a better foundation , than mans Praise , for my Opinion . And what that is concerning the day of Christs death , I will now declare : and were it to the whole World with your Self , I would declare it . viz , Week-day of Jesus's death declared . The 15 day of the first month Nisan , on which Christ was Crucified and Died , fell that year on the Fourth day of the week , i e , Wednesday : at end of which Day our Blessed Jesus was Buried : from which time to the end of the 7 day Sabbath , was 3 dayes and 3 nights , N T proof . the Term of time our Lord foretold he should lay in the grave * * Mat. 12.40 . . So there was two dayes between the day of Jesus's death , and the 7 day Sabbath . And one day between that high Sabbath , and the 7 day Sabbath : had the Jews kept the right day , there had been two dayes between their high Sabbath , and the 7 day Sabbath : which you say were both on a day . The Reason of this Translation , Reason of translation . was because it fell on Wednesday : for if this Sabbath fixt on the 15 day , fell on Munday , Wednesday , or Fryday ; the Jews Custome was to translate it to the next day , Godwyn . by the Rule 172 Badu . That year it fell on Wednesday , they kept it on Thursday , the 16 or Wave-day : so now you may see , your Wave-day and Pentecost were on Thrusday .

Fath.

I begin to Stagger ! have you any more proof for the day of Jesus's death ?

Min.

What need of more proof than Christs Own words ? but this Old world being so full of Novelty , I thought a New Opinion must have a New Proof too : take one then out of the O T. O T proof . And after 62 weeks shall Messiah be cut off , but not for himself † † Dan. 9.26 : these are extraordinary weeks . And he shall confirm the covenant with many for One week * * Ver. 27. : there is no Prefix in the Hebrew to render it [ for ] one week , but 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 one week ] he shall confirm the covenant ( with or rather ) For many , i e , for all the Elect , by being cut off according to the covenant † † Zech. 9.11 . . And he shall cause the Sacrifice and Oblation to cease : the Sacrifice was the yearly Passeover * * Ex. 12.27 , the Oblation was the daily Sacrifice † † Num. 28.2 , 3 , 4. Dan. 9.21 . : these two , viz , the Yearly Type and the Daily Type of Christs death , when he the Substantial Sacrifice was sacrificed for us , then he caused them Shadows to cease . But when ? in the Midst of the week he shall cause the Sacrifice and Oblation to cease * * Ver. 27. : this One Week was an Ordinary week of 7 dayes , the Midst of which is the Fourth day , or Middle day , The time Jesus lay Dead . having 3 dayes before it and 3 dayes after it , all which of these 3 last Jesus lay dead . So you may see , though the Week-day of Jesus's death ( so long since ) be not known to this Day ; yet this day was foretold before Christs Birth , by the Scriptures of Truth : in which God drops words in the Dark , to see if men will feel after him † † Act. 17.26 , 27. . Thus I have given you the Testimony , of Gods two Testaments , to prove my Opinion .

Fath.

I confesse this is more than I looked for : but if Christ lay so long dead , it will occasion some more Questions .

Min.

Bring out them Questions , and let nothing remain to broile at bottom .

Fath.

If there was a day between the 2 Sabbaths , why did the Jews go to Pilate for an Order to secure the Sepulchre on a high Sabbath ? * * Mat. 27.62 . and not stay till next day .

Min.

As necessity hath no Law , so necessity hath no Holy-dayes . Necessitas non habet Ferias . What cannot be done Before , nor deferred till After , may be done on the Sabbath . It could not be done Before : their crowns were so full of concern to get Christ crucified , there wanted room for that consideration . And they had been Up the night before that day Too : but having Slept upon it , and settled their wicked wits , now Sir , we remember that that deceiver said After 3 dayes I will rise again † † Mat. 27.63 . . ] And it cannot be omitted till to morrow : q d , So he may be stole away to night , by his deceitfull Disciples * * Ver. 64. .

Fath.

If there was a day for work between the Sabbaths , why did not them zealous women bring their Spices on that day ? but stay till after the 7 day .

Min.

Why lay the Popish Lords in the Tower ? why the Prisoners in Newgate ?

Fath.

Because they cannot get out .

Min.

No more could they get in . The Jews made the sepulchre Sure , sealing the Stone and setting a Watch † † Ver. 66. . It was made fast for 3 dayes , to prove Christ an Impostor .

Fath.

Why did they stay till morning ? and not come at Even , at the 3 dayes end .

Min.

Why do not fearfull folk who are scared at their own Shadows , go into Church-yards among graves at midnight ?

Fath.

Indeed because they dare not .

Min.

No more durst they go into a Tomb at night to the Dead . Frights make folks fearfull : it had been a Terrible time with them . When they came in the Morning , they feared to go in . Mary stooped down and looked in * * Joh. 20.11 . : and the Disciple whom Jesus loved came Running to the Sepulchre : yet went not He in † † V. 2 , 4 , 5. .

Fath.

How does your Opinion accord with this expression ? he rose again the third day * * 1 Cor. 15.4 . .

Min.

This phrase [ the third day ] is most miserably mistaken if thus taken , A miserable mistake . viz , Friday 1 , Saturday 2 , Sunday 3 : as if the day of Christs Death , and the day of his Resurrection were 2 of the 3 dayes : for neither is the One or the Other any of that number . But [ the third day ] must be understood by these Standing Rules , viz , the Son of man shall be 3 dayes and 3 nights in the heart of the earth † † Mat. 12.40 . . ] The Son of man must be killed , and After 3 dayes rise again * * Mar. 8.31 . ] Christ's enemies could remember his words ( though his friends forget them ) viz , We remember that deceiver said , After 3 dayes I will rise again † † Mat. 27.63 . . ] The Angel said to the women , He is risen as He said * * Chap. 28.5 , 6. : i e , when the dayes and nights were ended which he prefixed . ] On the first day said Cleopas to Christ , To day is the third day since these things were done † † Lu. 24.21 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . . This is a dark Text , and thus to be translated , To day the third day is Gone since these things were done * * PAS LEX pag 43. . ] Esther fasted 3 dayes , night and day † † Est. 4.16 . : yet she is said to put on her Royal apparell to approach to the King on the third day * * chap. 5.1 . completo die tertio . Junius . : i e , at end of the third day . ] Thus my Opinion does accord with the Word , but how does Gods word and You agree ! from the beginning of your count , viz , Friday at Even to the time when Jesus rose is but a Night and a Day : and from the beginning to the end , i e , the next morning , is but 2 Nights and a Day : how did Jesus fulfill his word ?

Fath.

Synechdochically , I suppose Jesus was buried a little bit before the Sixth day ended , and I count That for a day : and that he lay a moment on the first day morning , and I count That for a day .

Min.

Yet here is but 3 dayes and 2 nights : here is not a Bit of a third night .

Fath.

Then the night preceeding the Sixth day , must make it up .

Min.

And can you imagine this to be Christs meaning ! In all this you do little better than say , Jesus ( the man of Sorrow ) Jested , Joqued , and Juggled with his death . I wonder in what Darknesse we over-look this word NIGHT ! If Jesus had said , The Son of man shall lay 3 Dayes dead , you had some Plea for your Opinion : for [ Day ] sometime signifies Day without Night , and so Part of a day natural : but it is [ 3 dayes and 3 nights . ] And I would know where in all the Bible , this phrase [ day & night ] does once signifie Day without Night , or Night without Day , except in Heaven or Hell . But your First day ( as you call a Bit ) is without Night : and your Last day ( as you call a Night ) is without Day . By your Synechdochical rule you may argue , that Jesus lay 3 Years or 3 Ages dead : for [ Day ] figuratively signifies a Year or an Age. A Hellhinge . A most miserable mistake . This taking Scriptures Figuratively which should be taken Literally , is the Hinge on which them poor deceived people called Quakers turn all into confusion , and overturn all the Fundamental truths of the Gospel , viz , The birth , life , death , burial , resurrection , ascension , intercession , second coming of Christ : the resurrection of the dead and eternal judgment : yea Heaven and Hell , and all Figurative , and Within † † O! Great Gulf ! Monstrum ! Horrendum ! . This is a piece of the Pride of that Humble people , who count the Common literal sense of Texts too Low for them .

Fath.

How may we know when a Scripture is to be taken in a Figurative Sense ?

Min.

When a Literal sense is absurd , or contrary to the Analogie of Faith , or good morality of Life . e g , To eat the flesh of Jesus , to drink his blood , to cut off a right hand , to pluck out a right eye . To take such sayings in a Literal sense , is absurd , foolish , agrees not with faith , or good life . N B , Blessed are your eyes † † Mat. 13.16 . ] take this literally and its ridiculous ! to think their eyes were Blessed , and all the body and soul beside Cursed : but this is by your figure Synechdoche , when a Part is put for the Whole , or è contra : but the whole [ 3 dayes and 3 nights ] are not put for parts , bits , and moments as you imagine . —

¶ If your Qu be An , let us come towards a Close . I have given you a true account of the Day of Jesus's death , of the Time of his burial , of the Time he lay dead , of the Time of his resurrection . But you neither tell when Jesus Died , or how long he lay Dead , or when he Rose : for you have nothing in the Bible to prove your opinion by . (1) The day of Jesus's death is not said to be the 6 day . (2) The Sabbath ensuing is not said to be the 7 day . (3) The first day is not said to be the morrow after That Sabbath : but when it s spoken of , it s thus phrased , viz , the first day of the week * * Joh. 20.1 . . ] When the Sabbath was past † † Mar. 16.1 , i e , the moral Sabbath . ] 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , in the end of the Sabbaths * * Mat. 28.1 , i e , Ceremonial and Moral . N B , This moral Sabbath fell in between two Ceremonial Sabbaths : viz , the first and last dayes of unleavened bread , and after the 16 of Nisan . Such a Sabbath we read of , called the second Sabbath after the first † † Lu. 6.1 . Mat. 12.1 . idem . : so called because it followed the first , i e , the Passeover Sabbath . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , the Second first Sabbath : so called because it fell after the first , and before the second Ceremonial Sabbath . Scaliger de emend temp. It was the next Moral Sabbath after the 16 of Nisan : which day was 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . the Deutera , or second day of the 7 , the Wave-day from whence they counted the Pentecost . The Disciples rubbing the cars of Corn * * Lu. 6.1 . , tell us it was at this time of year which we are treating of : i e , at beginning of Harvest , which began the 16 of Nisan , the first of the 50 dayes . Hence the name of the month 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Abib , which signifies an ear of corn : this is in March † † Buxtorf Heb LEX Pag 1. . The fiftieth day , was at end of Harvest , in April , or May.

Fath.

Well! you go quite crosse to the common account of the Church for Ages : and to Christians and learned Ministers now living : I fear this will be offensive , if I should make it known .

Min.

And as crosse to my self you would say , if you knew how much its against the hair with me to displease men . I design not to displease , or please men , farther than for their profit . My main design is to please God and my Conscience : if in so doing I do ( accidentally ) displease men , I must harden my self in that sorrow † † Job 6.10 . . And may I but engage God and my Conscience to stand by me , I have enough , were all the world to rise up in arms against me . As for mens Hearts , they are in Gods Hand : and with him I leave it , to turn them To or Fro me as he please . I have learned to know , I am not to live by mens Smiles , nor to die by their Frowns .

¶ Sir , Concession . you are at liberty to tell your Authors what I have told you : but counsel them not to Back-bite me , for that is uncomely . If they have any thing to reply more than your Self , desire them to do it to my Face . But let them know , their Replication must come from holy Scripture , else it will be lost labour . It will be in vain to tell me , I oppose the opinion of the Church for So many ages : or I am opposite to the Church that now is , National or Congregational † † I mean all in separation from the National : and so in Pag 213. : or to this or that learned Minister , or Dr. The Question with me ( concerning an opinion ) is not , Whose is it ? but , What is it ? If they bring any thing out of Philo , Josephus , Manasse Ben Israel , or any of the Talmudical Doctors , or Jewish Rabbies , that will give light to a Dark Text , I will embrace it : but if it comes to darken a Clear Text , or to disprove a Plain Text , I shall utterly reject it : and therefore ( to convince me ) it will be in vain to produce it .

Fath.

I presume you have not been long of this perswasion . Did you never speak of the time of Christs resurrection in Preaching ? pray what account did you give the people of it ?

Min.

Sir , I shall deal ingeniously with you . The Author's way in his Work . I have sometime preached a Sermon for the observation of the Sabbath day . For a beginning I directed to the morning , supposing it to be the time of Jesus's rising . But I secretly thought I wanted a bottom : for I could not tell what time in the morning Jesus rose : and was as if my heart did not stand by me in it . I marvel now in what Mist I was groping at Noon day , for the time of Jesus's rising in the morning : for that was not at all to be expected . Nor need the time of his resurrection be expressed , when the time of his Burial , viz , Even , and the time of continuance in the Grave , viz , 3 dayes and 3 nights are both expressed . The shame of this Bottomlesse counsel for a beginning of the Sabbath , I am willing to bear : but I knew no better : yet my ignorance will not excuse my negligence , I should have made better Search . But I was never concerned about it till you and I had talked under the Tree : since that I have been much perswaded , that the Common count for the day of Christs death was not True : but that he lay longer dead . And because I had never discoursed any man concerning it , I searched some Expositors of Texts relating to it : and found them all opposite to me : so I see , if I went on , I must go against the Stream . And seeing I could find nothing For me , I sought to find all I could Against me : and to know the Full strength of this Stream . This being found , I laid these learned Authors By , and fell to work by the search of the Scriptures and Prayer : for I could not give it over . And though many a time after Much study and Little hope , I have been Crushed as if I should give up the ghost ; yet I could Not give it over : but continued in prayer to God , viz , that if the Common count of the day of Christs death was true , he would cause me to acquiesce in it : but if my perswasion was true , that he would be pleased to help me to understand it , and make it out to You , and not leave me to erre in it . To this purpose I did implore God with many prayers , and many t — , to say no more , he knows the way I take * * Job 23.10 Prayer and Professors are Strangers . . Prayer is another thing than many imagine : and many times I think I never prayed yet : but if ever I prayed , it was for this . And praised be his holy name , he hath heard me , and helped me through this intricate work , which was the hardest knot to untie , that ever I took in hand in my Time . I gave up my self to the Conduct of God . As I was never for on work by any mans Word , Letter , or Print , or ever had the least hint of this Opinion from man ; so I never asked any creature any one Question concerning it , in all the time I have been upon the search of it . This I tell you to this end , viz , If you think I erre , you may blame no man but my self : and if you think I am right , you may give God and not man the praise .

¶ Sir , Parent Cautioned . here is a Providence which you may not lightly passe over . viz , This concern of the Sabbath falling on me so soon after our Conference under the Tree : which seems to be for your Sake . I thought not of it in our First Dialogue . I was concerned with it in our Second Dialogue , though ( not being ready for it ) I did not tell you of it : but I am no sooner prepared for this Third Dialogue , but you are driven out by Yesterdayes opposition to draw me to it . And let me tell you , In all this labour , I have had you in my eye : much desiring your Sound settlement for the Sabbath . Here is a voice of God , speaking to you : which I desire you may hear . And I pray consider seriously with your self , what account you will give at the Great Day , if you will not hear Gods voice so Audible , nor see his word so Visible : but will bottom your Sabbatical opinion on mans Tradition , which hath no ground in Gods word .

Fath.

I am shattered and unsettled , like a troubled Sea after a Storm , by this New sudden assault of my Old opinion : but when there comes a Calm and my mind Quiet , I suppose I shall settle upon your foundation : so you may freely speak what you have farther to say , as if I was already of your mind .

Min.

I counsel you to pray God to settle you on a sure foundation , Parent Counselled . as ( day and night ) I have done : and by which means I am at length come to the desired Haven : towards which I have been long rowing . And though by the way , I have had many a fall down into the deep ; yet I ever rose upon this Text * * MAT. XII . XL . . And my Antagonists being Answered ; upon this even , firm , sound ground I Stand * * MAT. XII . XL . : and from this Opinion I shall Never depart while I Live , except Christ comes from Heaven , and declares me deceived .

¶ Having set the Sabbath upon its own Base , or rather shewed you where GOD hath set it , Praest at pauca avidè discere quam multa cum taedio devorare . Erasmus . and on what Foundation he hath Bottomed its Beginning , and ( as I hope ) settled you upon that Foundation ; I shall for your profitable practice , Drop a few Directions for the Sabbath Day , and so dismisse you .

¶ 1 ) Remember the Sabbath day before it comes , to Prepare for it : 1 Direct . Memento . and let none of yours remember it to Prophane it . If you forget or neglect the Sabbath , you lose it , and let it fall . If the Sabbath falls , Sin and Satan too rises , to your Ruine . REMEMBE● is a word of THUNDER ! Remember , the Sabbath is Never to be forgot , while the World stands . A Popish Opinion . Popish writers say , There was no Sabbath before Sinai : ] but the Sabbath came in with the First man , and must go out with the Last man . REMEMBER ! Prepare ! Simile . If a great man was to come to your House , you would make great preparation . REMEMBER ! the Great GOD is to come ( this day ) to your Heart . Lift up your heads , O ye Gates ! &c. and the King of Glory shall come in † † Ps. 24.7 . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . Septuag. . The Septuagint Title of this Psalm shews it to be A psalm for a Sabbath .

¶ 2 ) Begin the Sabbath when the Sabbath begins : i e , at Even . 2 Direct . End the work of the precèdent day when the day ends : i e , at Even . If you care not when you Begin the Sabbath , peradventure God will not care when you End it , nor how unprofitably you Spend it .

¶ 3 ) Rise early in the morning . 3 Direct . Sleep not away the Sabbath : so you may sleep away Salvation , and the Soul . Be not Sleeping , when you should be Praying . Pray him to give Blessing to the Sabbath , who gave Being to the Sabbath . Let the body be early Up , and the heart early Ope. Before you rise , count , Christ is calling as to Zacheus : viz , Make hast , and come down ( UP ) for to day I must abdie at thy house * * Lu. 19.5 . .

¶ 4 ) Be not slothfull in duty on the Sabbath day . 4 Direct . The sluggard is Satans Cushen . Simile . Come not to a Sermon to be a Seat for Satan to sit on . Satan entered J●●●s , Simile . at Supper-time : into idle souls , at Sermon time . The Sabbath is a day of Merchandise for the Soul † † Better than of Silver and Gold . . Idlenesse is Never good , nor Ever so had as on Sabbath-dayes . Some had rather sweat their browes Six dayes for the Body , than their brains One day for the Soul . Do your duty on this day , or you do nothing : and do every duty in Season . You cry , O the Times ! we must hear comfortable Doctrine to strengthen our Faith . ] In vain is comfortable Doctrine , without conformable Life . A Christian weakens his Faith more by a Sin , than a Minister can strengthen it by a Sermon .

¶ 5 ) Be spiritual in every duty on the Sabbath day . 5 Direct . In order to This , be spiritual on Other dayes . He that is carnal Six dayes , is not like to be spiritual One day . Be not content with outward expressions and actions , without inward affections : not with the Body of duty , without the Soul of duty : not with the Gift , without the Grace of duty .

¶ 6 ) Beware of your own Works . 6 Direct . Do nothing but of necessity : viz , what you cannot do the day before , nor forbear till the day following . e g , To quench Fire , To stop Water † † Sea-bank breaches . To save the life of Man , or Beast , To move Malt , To gather , and save Saffron . In such case , we break the Sabbath , except we break it . But do these Spiritually , and with Speedy dispatch .

¶ 7 ) Beware of your own Words . 7 Direct . What may not be Done , may not be Said , or talked of . Talk not of News , except necessary . This discourse eats as a Canker ! Simile . and hath eat out the Life of Religion long ago . We talk much of the Papal Plot , as if we were well acquainted with it : but this Part of the Plot we are ignorant of , viz , Satans design to make us talk away our Time , till we talk our selves down the Stream : Simlie . like the Fool whose lips swallow up himself † † Eccless . 10.12 . . If men were acquainted with their ignorance of God , they would think all their time too little to talk of God .

¶ 8 ) Take heed of your own Thoughts . 8 Direct . By them , many break the Sabbath , and few know it . What men do Openly , or speak Audibly , is seen and heard by men : but a man may think Ang thing , Every thing , and all men know Nothing , but God knows all . The body , tongue , or hand may be Bound up from sin , and the heart Bent for it against God . Such secret Sabbath breakers , are reserved in Store , for the day of Wrath.

¶ 9 ) Be sorry for the sins of Sabbath dayes . Sigh and Cry ! 9 Direct . for all the abominations , that abound on Sabbath dayes . God groans under them : if you are at ease while God is pressed , God will take no pleasure in your Rest .

¶ 10 ) Be acquainted with the emptinesse of Religion , 10 Direct . without a due observation of the Sabbath day . The 4. command for a Sabbath , is called , Gustos primae tabulae , keeper of the first table : ] the 5 command for honour of Parents , is called Custos secundae tabulae , keeper of the second table . ] He that keeps not the 4 command , is locked out of the First table , and is like to do GOD no Service : he that keeps not the 5 command , is shut out of the Second table , and is like to do Man none , well : but to be Abominable , and Disobedient , and to Every good work , Reprobate * * Tit. 1.16 . .

That these Drops may Water , Epilogue . &c make Better , LORD ! put Life to every Line and Letter .

Fath.

That his may be as you do Say , I will go hasten home and Pray .

〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉

ERRATA . Pag 13 , lin 25 , for bitternesse , read bitternesses . Pag 19 , lin 22 , for Low , read Law . Pag 37 , lin 24 , for plentitudinem , read plenitudinem . Pag 136 , lin 17 , for full Horrour , read full of Horrour .