Full text of "A treatise of faith divided into two parts : the first shewing the natvre, the second, the life of faith, both tending to direct the weake Christian how he may possesse the whole Word of God as his owne, ouercome temptations, better his obedience, and liue comfortably in all estates"

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^ PRINCETON, N. J. ^* 

1 


1 


Collection of Puritan Literature. i 


1 

1 Division "lu--^ \ 

Section 

Number 












*&* «S» ^B» *A» **» «(B» 







m 
m 



♦: 



TREATISE 

OF FAITH. 

Divided into two Parts : 

The firft" .fhewing the 
Nature, 

The fecond , the L i f e 
of Faith: 

Both tending to dired the weake Chrlftian how he 
may pofTefle the whole Word of G o d as his 

owne, overcome temptationSjbetter i 

■ his obedience, and live comfor- 
tably in all eftates. I 

JSy JOHN^BALL. \ 



The jHfiJhall liv* bj his faith. 



■^ 









The third Edition corrc6led and enlarged. 



LONDON, 
Printed by %obert Toung (or Edward Brevofler, and arc 
to beiold at his Shop at the figne of the Bible 
upon Fleet bridge, 1637. 









.<y^ 




THE PREFACE TO 

THE READER. 

Lorious things are fpoken of the 
grace of graces ( Faith ) in the 
Scripures , Codfetting hmfelfc 
to honour that grace that yeeUs 
up all the honour unto him in 
Chrifl ; who indeed is the life of 
our Itfe^ andthefoule ofour foule. 
Faith onely a^ the bond of union 
bringeth Chrifi and the foule together, and is as an ar- 
terie that convenes th^fpritfrom him as the heart, and 
as the fmevoes which conqjcy the fprit to move all dutie 
from him as head'-ywhence Saint ViXiAmaketh Chrifs 
living in us, and our living bj faith all one, Gal.2 .2 o. 
Now that which giveth boldncjfe and liberty to faith, 
ts not onely Cods afsignement ofthts offce to it in the 
covenant of grace to come unto Chrifi , and unto him in 
Chrijl , to receive grace, but likewife thegracfOf^spro- 
mifes whereby the great God hath ingaged himjel/e as 
a debtor to hts poore creature , for all things ncedfitll 
to life and godlineffe , untillthat ble [fed time when we 
fhallbcput into a fill poffefsion of ill things ive have now 
onely inpromife , when fait hfijall end in fruition, and 
promt fcs in performance, 

**■ 2 Faith 



The Preface to the Reader. 



Faith frfi IcGkcstothistvordof^romfe ^ andmthe 
promije to Chrifi^ in whom and for whom^ they are Yea 
^WAmen, both made and 'performed. Andin Chrijlit 
ejeih God in whom it lafi rejleth.,as its f roper center ^nd 
foundation-^ othcrwifehowjhould we wcakefmfull crea- 
tures dare to have any inter courfe with God that dwel- 
leth in that lig'ht that none can attain unto^ if he had not 
come forth anddifcovered his good pleafurem Chrift the 
fuhfantiall Word, and in the word inffired bj the Holy 
Choffcr the good oft ho fe whom Cod meant for to make 
he ires offalvation? Now t he fc promt fes whereon all our 
prefent comfort and future hope dependcth^lte hid in the 
Scriptures yO^veines of gold and fiver in the bow ells of 
^^he earth, and had need bee laid open^ that Gods people 
may know what uf on good grounds to lay claime unto. 
Thofe therefore that fear ch thefeMjnes to bring to light 
the fe trc afar es, deferve well of Gods 0mrch. We com- 
mend {and not without caufi) thewittieindHflry ofhofc 
that from Springs remote bring Rivers to Cuies,and by 
Pipes from thofe Rivers derive water to every mans 
houfefor all dom^eflic all fer vices : much more flwuld we 
eflecmc of the religiom paines of men that bring thefe 
waters of life home for every mans f articular ufe , in 
all t he paJJ ages and turnings, of this life, 

Jn which regard,! do not doubt ^ but the paines of t^ti. 
godly, painefull, and learned man, willfnd good enter, 
tainment of all children efthepromifes that hope toinhe^ 
rit them, who hath with great paines,and with good evi. 
dence of fpirituall underfianding,endevouredto clear e 
mofi matters concerning faith'^^ Itkewife difcoveredthe 
variety andufeofthepromifes,with teaching Chrifliam 
how to'improve their riches in Chrift here fpre ad before 

them J 



The Preface to the Reader. 



them^hovpio ufe thejhieldofFdth^andthefwordofthe 
Spirit upon dloccafions, thatfo they might not onely bee 
heleevingyhut skilfuU Chrijlians, knowing how to man^ 
nage and make the befi ad'vantage oftheirfmh, and 
the word of Faith . Which if they could doe , there would 
another manner of power and beauty jhine in their lives, 
than doth. He is a man that hath formerly defervedwell 
of the Church , but in morefpeciall manner fitted for a 
Treatife of this nature , as having beene put to it^ to 
know by experience what it isto live by faith , having 
in fight for matters of this life very little whereupon to 
depend, Thofe that are driv e n to exercife their faith, 
cannot but find Godfaithfull,as never failingthofe that 
trufl in him J they fee more of God than others doe. 

if it be ob]eCted that others of Ute time have digged 
in the fame my ne.^ and laboured in the fame field, and to 
goodpurpofe andfucceffe : lanfwer^ it is true, the more 
this age is bound to God that dire^s thejpirits of men to 
fo ufefiiUjfoneceffary an argument Seeing without faith 
wee have no communion with the fount aine of life, no- 
thing in this world that can yecld fettled comfort to 
ground thefouleupon,^ feeing without it the fair eflcar^ 
riage is but emptie and dead morality , neither finding 
acceptance with God^ nor yeelding comfort to us in our 
greatefl extremities, and by it Godhimfelfe,and Chrifl, 
with all that he hath done,fuffered, conquered, be com- 
meth ours and for our ufe.Bcftdes,nonc that J know have 
written in our Language fo largely of this argument : 
and [uchis the extent and ffiritualnes of this heavenly 
point, that many men,^ of the greatefl graces and parts, 
may with great benefit to the Church, dive anddigfiill 
into this my fleric. Neither let any except againfl the] 

* 2 multitudes 



The Preface to the Reader. 



multitude of quotations ofScripures^thejare brought un. 
der their f roper head^ andfet in their proper p lace, (^ the 
matter itfelfe is cut out into -variety of parts. Store (as 
wee ufe tojpeake) is no fore 5 rve count it a delight to take^ 
out of a full heape 3 the more light, the conviction u the 
fronger z, what futes not at one time, will fute our J^ir its 
andoccafions at another, and what taketh not with one , 
may take with another. But the full and weE handling 
of matters in this "Treatife caries fuch fatts faction with 
it , that it frees me from necefsltie of further difcourfe , 
and mine owne prefent weaknejfe of hodie taketh me off. 
Oneh Iwo/swillrngto '^eeldthat teflimonie to the fruit- 
full paines of a fait hfuU labourer in Gods Vineyard, 
that I]udgeit defer ved. Receive it therefor e,Chriflian 
Reader, with 1 hanks to Codthat flirreth up fuch helpers 
of thai faith by which wee live,pand^ conquer^ and in 
which we mufi die^ifwe looke to receive the end of our 
faith, thefalvation ofourfoules . 



R I C H A r> S I B B E S. 






(>>/ Table of ^heprincipall matters 

contained in this firft 9 art. 



C H A p. I. 

HOw and in what re- 
fpcfts fjith is nc- 
ceffary,Sea.i.pa. i 
Divers acceptations 
of the word faith. 
Sea. 1 p. 2, J 
Of divers kinds of Faith , § 3 

pag- J 
Why fome kind of Faith is cal- 
led Hiftoricall, ibid. 
The difference betwixt Faith Mi- 
raculous and Ordinary, ibid. 

P-4 
Why true Faith is called Juftify- 
ing or faving Faith, ibid. 

In what phrafcs this Faith is un- 
folded in the New Teftament, 

P-4 

To bcleeve God , and to beleeve 

in Godjdoe in Scripture import 

one and the fame thing, p. f 

Not the habit Cchough that bee 

neceflaryj but the aft and exer- 

cife of faith is required, § J p. 

€,7 

Chap. II. 

\X7*Hat Juftifying faith is, 
God the Father, in his Sonne Je- 



fus Chriftjby the holy Spirit,is 
the authour of faith, § z p.7,8 
Faith is a gift in a fpeciall manner, 
moft free and profitable, ibid. 
How wee are faid to receive the 
Holy Ghoft by Faith, ibid. 
How the Spirit is obtained by 
prayer, p.? 

Faith is imperfed, though a work 
of the Spirit, § j p,^ 

Faith ii a powerful! work of God 
ibid. 
How God produceth faith, §4 
p.io,ii 
The increafe of faith is of God, 
p. 11 
Faith is the gift of God and the 
ad of man, § ? p. i i 

Faith IS wrought by the Word, 
$tfp.ij 
Encreafed by prayer , and ufe of 
the Sacraments, p. 1 4 

Why all do not beleeve that heare 
the Word, ibid« 

Though faith bee th€ gift of God , 
men muft ufe the mcanes to 
obtaineit, P*i4}i5 

Chap. III. 

FAith prefuppofeth knowledge, 
§ \ p.16,17 ; 
It captivates our undevftanding } 
* 4 unto 



A Table ofthefrm^ifatl matters 



unto the obedience of Gliiift , 
but is not ignorant of Chrift , 

This knowledge muftbe diftin(aj 
found and certaine, p. 1 7 

In what refpeft faith may be cal- 
led implicice or unfolded, p. 1 8 
Faith is an alient, ^ a p.l9,io 
Bcleefe hath reference to fome ut- 
tered word or revelation J but 
may be fuftained by other mo- 
tives and inducements, p.19 
Faich is a firme affent, yet fome- 
times accompanied with doub- 
ting, p.ao 
Faith is an abfolute and unlimi- 
ted aflent , and yet through ig- 
norance and infirmitie, a Chri- 
ftian may misbeleeve many 
things without danger of dam- 
nation, p. 21,1 2 
Faith is an affent in a fort evident, 
p. 2x^23 
Faith alfo is an affent in fome fort 
difcurfive, p. 2 5,24 
Faith is an affiance or confidence, 
$?PM.2.J,&c. 
Confidence as it doth embrace 
Chrift with a certaine affiance 
is the forme of faith : as it be- 
getteth in us quietnefle of con- 
fcience, and confidence of li- 
berty,it is an efled of faith, p. 
30 
Confidence is oppofej both to 
doubting and diftruft, p. 30, 

31 

Faith is an obedientiall affiance, 

f^-L • r^§4p.5i,f,J3 

Faith is oppolcd not onely to 

doubting and diffidence ; but 

to wavering, double-minded- 

neflTe, and difobedience, p.? 3 

Affiance muft be well rooted. § y 

P-54 
It muft bee found and perma- 



nent, p. 3435 

Faith 15 an over-ruling affianc. 

^r n r, • ^^^'^' 

Of ell graces faith is the moli 

humble, P-?^^37 

Faithisafpiritualltafte, §^p.37 

Faith adaiits many interruptions, 

Chap. II 1 1. 

LOve is notthelifeorfouleof 
, faith, §ip.38,39,&c. 

It is fiith and not charitie thn 

gives influence to all othti 

graces , even to charity it felfe, 

ibid. 

The goodneffeof God cannot be 
the objeft of our charity , but 
by being firft the objcd of our 
faith, ibid 

Charity is an inftrument unto 
faith for moving andftirring 
abroad in the performance of 
all duties recommended unto 
us , but the inward or eflcntiaH 
forme offaith is not, p.40j4l 

In what refpeds charity doth ex- 

ccll faith, and faith charitie, 

§ip,42,43 

How faith is perfeded by w jrkes, 

Juftifying faith cannot bee with- 
out loye, § jp,4j46&c. 

How the afts of charity are faid 
to beof faith, p.4f,4^ 

Faith temporary and juftifyi jg 
differ in radi cation , foyer aign- 
tie,and working, p,49 

The firft and radicall union with 
Chrift is made by faith only : 
the fecondarie union is by 
meancs of the affeftions, p^ya 

They that worke iniquity have rio 
faith to belceve affuredly , that 
they {hall be faved, p.? g 

rhc 



contained in this fir fi Part^ 



The faich ot Devils comprthends 

the fulnefle and peifcdion of 

that which the Romanifis cill 

Catholike or Chrifiian faith, 

P 55j.S<5 

Faith alone juftifieth, but that 
faith which juftifieth, is not a- 
lone, p.J^>57 

Ghap. V. 

WHat Dodrines are called 
matters of faith, S i p. 
S8 
Juftifying faith is two wayes con- 
fidered, SzpySjf^ 

According to the twofold confi- 
deration of juftifying faith, the 
objeft of it is twofold,p.5«?,^o 
True faith rcfpedeth the whole 
„ Word of God, ibid. 

As the doftrine of Creation, § $ 
p. 60 
Providence. ibid. 

M ns mifeiy by finne, p^i 
Myftcries of godlinefle,ibid. 
The promifes concerning Sandi- 
fication and thine|S of this life, 
§ 4 p.<>i,6z/j 
Why faith doth put forth it Cdfe 
to embrace whatfoever the 
Lord promifcth, p.6i,^x 

It is very neceffary tOjbeleeve the 
promifes concerning fanftifica- 
tion, p.62 

It is neceffary to beleevc the tem- 
porall promifes, ?-^h^-f 

Faith bcletveth the threatnings, 
S <,- P64 
Beliefe of the threatnings is necef- 
fary, p.64,6jf 
Faith beleeveth the commande- 
menty, § 6f>66 gj 
In particular praftices the faith- 
full may faile, p. 6* ' 
The obedience of faith is uni- 



form, entire, and conftant, § 7 



,6q 



- 9 70 

The faithful! foufe may find it 
felfe more prone to one finne 
than another : but if right 
comparifon be made, faith in- 
citcth to h.ite all finne, one as 
well as another, p.<5p,7o 

Chap. VI. 

TpHe fpeciall objeft of juftify- 
"*- ing faith arc the free pro- 
mifes of mercy and forgiveneff*. 
in Jcfus Chrift, § I p.70,7l 

Abraham beleeving the promife of 
feedjdid apprehend that blefl'ed 
feed, which from the beginning 
had beene promifed, p.7x 

Rcmiffion of finnes doth prefup- 
pofe the mercy of God , ibid. 
Beliefe of Gods power is not the 
aft of faith juftifying as it ju- 
ftifieth : but the confideration 
of Gods power is a prop and 
ftay to faith againft manifold 
temptations, P*73 

Chrift is every where in Scripture 
made the thing which faith 
embraceth fofalv3tion,p.74 7^ 
Faith in Gods fpeciall mercy fra- 
meth his Image in the Heart, 
§ J p.78 

Chap. VII. 

Juftifying faith is a particular 
and ccrtaine confidence , § i 
p.79,8o,&c. 
The thirfty and burthened foule is 
inyited to come unto Chrift , 
and commanded to beleevc, 
p.80 
Juftifying faith is opp6fcd to dc- 
fpiite , fa as to expetl it : it 
breeds confidence aiid boldnes: 
and 



^yi Table ofthefrtMcipall matters 



and rtrcciveth Chritl tor the 
conveying of his benefits parti- 
cularly unto us, p.8 t 

Paithis certainein theevenr, not 
everinfeafe, § 2, p. 8 2, 8 3, &c. 

Things are to us according as wc 
conceive them , which is not 
ever anfwcrable to the evidence 
of the thing in it felfe,or to the 
certaintie in regard ©f event, 

A beleever , who hath a fure be- 
liefe , doth not alwayes know 
that hee fo beleeveth, p.84 
Faith as it.juftifieth is a refting 
uponChrift 10 obtaine pardon, 
not an affured perfwafion that 
ouTrlinnes be already pardoned 
and forgiven,,§ 2 p.8y,86,8?c. 
Before 3 uitification faith feekcth 
and receiveth the promife of 
fofgivenefl'e : after Juftification 
It comfortably aflureth of the 
blcffing obtained, p. 88 

Eledion is manifefled by faith as 
by its efFed : but wee are jufti- 
fied by faith as theinftrument 
thereof, § 4 p.8 j 

Chap. VIII. 



HOw faith aflureth of falva- 
tion, § I p.90,91 

This aflurance isfuch asisfhakea 
with many doubts and diffi- 
calties, § ip.pz 

The particular certaintie of re- 
miflion of finnes, is not equall 
in certainetic and firmenefleof 
aifent , to that affurance which 
wee have about the common 
objeft of faith, § j p.9 1^95 

There bee feverall ftjtcs of belee- 
verSjbutallfubjeft to manifold 
temptations, §4p,94,9j 

Beleefe in Chriftforremiffionis 



Itronger and more neccffary 
than p^irticular aflurance of 
our faivation, § ^ p.96 

Not onely fome uncertaine hope, 
but even infallible aflurance of 
faivation is to be fought , and 
may be obtained^ § 6 ^.9^,97 y 
&c. 
There is a word teftifying thus 
much, that my particular pcr- 
fon beholding the Sonne , and 
beleeving on him , fhallhave 
eternalUife, ?'97 >9i:99 

Such as truly beleeve may know 
theybcleeve, ?■ 99,ioo 

In refped of the exad meafure of 
grace and ftrength, the regene- 
rate are oft deceived ; but of 
the truth of grace they may bee 
afiUrred. p. 100 

What it is to beleeve with the 
whole heart, p.ioi 

In what fenfe wee muft continue 
daily to aske of God forgivc- 
-nefle of fins, notwithfl:andino 
former aflurance of pardon,§ 7 
p.iox,i©|,io4.&c. 
How juftification is full and en- 
tire, p 105,106 
God hath faid, as to Abraham, fo 
to every one of the feed ofA- 
braham, I will be thy God, p. 
10^,107 
How every faithful! man may 
and doth make God his in par- 
ticular, ibid 
The Apoftles and other faithflill 
have beenc aflTured of their fal- 
vation |»y ordinary faith, § 8 
p. 107,108 
The faivation ofa beleever is in- 
fallible in it felfe,and in event, 
but not ever in his apprehenfi- 
onand feeling, § p.p. 1 08, lop 
Aflurance of faith in things ex- 
traordinarily revealed, is not 
slto^ether. 



contained in this firfi Part^ 



altogether free from affaults , 
p. I op 

THe benefits that come unto us 
by temptations, p. iii 

The Coramandements are laid 

before beleevers, not as the 

. cauCe for obtaining of eternall 

life, but as the wavtowalke 

in unto eternall lifcjS i o p. 1 1 z 

Upright walking is nectflary, hue 

not the caufc of Juftification , 

p. 1 1 J. 1 14 

The beleever relycth not upon 
his workes, though he exercife 
himfelfe thtrein-with all dili- 
gence, P * 1 4 

What infirmities may ftand with 

affurance of faith, §iip.iif 

i)6j 117^118 

What, finnes hinder aflluance, 
§~ I i p. 1 1 8, 1 19 

The abfolute reigne of finne.will 
not ftand with the ftate of 
grace, § 13 p. 119,120 

True afl'urance breeds increafe of 
refolution and care to pleafe 
God, §i4p.i20,izj,i2i 

Chap. IX. 

THe authority of the Church 
cannot bee the ground of 
, faith, § I p.123,124 

Whatfoevcr credit the Church 
hath, it rcceiveththe fame from 
the Scriptures, P-^^.^ 

The authority of the Pope , 
whom they call the Church 
virtuall, is the firft ground and 
laft refolution of the Romn- 
«f/7f faith, § i p.i24,i2y 

Faith refteth not upon the Saints, 
, but upon Jefus Chrift, § j p. 

127, liS 

The Rfcfjwi^f in defence of their 

Saint invocation, are driven to 



iay, that wee are to truft in the 
Saints departed , p. 1 28, 1 29 ' 
&c. 

Chap.X. 

•r»He benefits and cfFeas of 
* faith, $ I p. 13 1,1 52, &c. 

Faith doth not efRd and pei- 
forme thofe things by any px- 
cellencyj force, or efficacy of its 
owne above other graces ;-but 
in tefptd of the office where- 
unto it is afligned in the Cove- 
nant of grace, P'^SJ 

Of all creatures man onely is ca- 
pable of.JMftifying.faitb, § 2 

p.igf 

Faith is proper unto man in this 
life, in his journev towards his 
perfe<ft home ana eternall ha- 
bitation, p»i^J 

All men have not faith, ibid. 

The fubjcftof |ufl:ifying is man a 
fianer, called accordmg to the 
putpofe of God, acknowledg- 
ing his offences, and hungring 
and thirfting. after, mercy, 
p.i3(5 

Thefeatoffahh is the heart, but 
the heart contrite,humbled, be- 
wailing finne , denying it felfe 
and afteded with defies of-re- 
miflion, § J p. 137 

In Scripture the heart is taken for 
the whole foule , with all its 
powers and operations, p. i ? 8 

Faith is common to all, and pecu- 
liar to them onely, who becal- 
Icd according to the purpofe of 
God, §4p.i^9,i40 

All have not the like naeafure of 

faith, $fp. 141 

Faiihpetfedi'nnone,p. 141,141 

The faith of the weakeft CHii- 

ftian is fiifficient to falva- 



tion. 



cy^ Tahle of the frtncipall matters 



uon, » o p. 141 

The dcgfees of faith may be con- 

fidercd according to the divers 

growth , wh'.ch God bringeth 

his children unto J ■ §7 p. 145 
Foure degrees of faith, ibid. 

Faith is weake foure waies, 

I Knowledge, z Affent. i 

Conhdence. 4 Fruits and ef- 

fefts, p.143,144 

Ordinarily beleevers are weake at 

thefirft, P»i4J 

Some priviledged above others J 

ibid. 

JFaith weake in one refped, may 

be ftrong in another, i bid. 

The benefits of the weakeft faith, 

if true and lively, § 8 p. 146 
Weake faith, if found, will grow 

and increafe, ibid^ 

Weemuft ftrivc to bee ftrong and 

rich in faith, p. 1 46^ 147 

Faith fomewhat gcownc , $ 9 

P.T47 

Strong faith, p. 147,1 48 

Full affurance gotten by degrees 

p. 1 48 

The benefits of full afFurance , 

p.148,149 

The ftrongeft faith is fubjed to 

fundry infirmities, 5 10 p 150 
The ftrong beleever doth fome- 

times fhrinke, when the weake 
ftands faft, ibid. 



Chap, XI. 

Motives and encouragements 
to belee ve,§ I p. 1 5 1 , 1 5 1 
Meanes for the right planting of 
faith, §ip.i53,i54,ij5,&c. 
Faith once obtained , is ferioufly 
to be regarded, § 3 p. 158,1^9 
160 
Meanes whereby faith is ftreng- 



thenedand confirmed, § 4 p 
i6i^i^a,i«j,i64 

Chap. XII. 

WHy Satan cndevours by all 
meanes to hinder, as the 
kindly taking,fo the growth of 
faith, §ip.l64,i65 

The firft Temptation is taken from 
our worthlefneffe, $ i ?. 16 J 
7{emedie : The fcnfe of unworthi- 
neffe mtift not difconrage us 
from beleeving, becaufe 

I. The mercy, favour, pro- 
mifes, and benefits of God arc all 
free, ibid. 

2. We are not more defirous 
to beleeve,than God is we (hould 
fodoe, p.i6j,i6^ 

The fecond Temptation, They 
know not whether they be ele- 
aed, § z 

Remedie i.Hold fuch fuggeftions 
to arife from the fpirit of error, 
and lend noeare to fuch whif- 
perings of the old Serpent , 
p.i65 
2. If God make offer of 
mercy and forgiveneffe in the Mi- 
niftery of the Gofpel, wee are 
bound to receive it, ibid. 

The third re»?pf<i/M« , They are 
full of doublings, §3 

Remedie, i. Faith may bee true 
and lively that is weake, p. 1^7 
2. It is not the excellency 
and meafure of faith that doth 
make us righteous before God,but 
Chrift whom faith doth receive, 
ibid. 
5. It is not faith, but Chrift 
received by faith, that nourifheth 
toeternall life, ibid. 

4. Wee read that Chrift re- 
proved fomefor their fmail faith, 

but. 



contained in this firfi Part^ 



but never icjcftcd any that 
came unto him in weaknefle , 
defiring to be cont]rmed,p.i(57 
168 
The fourth temptation y They 
cannot keepe their faith flrong 
and ftfdfalt, § 4' 

Remedies i. There is no (hadow 
of change with Godj p.l68 
%. Labouring after and groa- 
ning to reft their wearied foules 
upon the piomifes of mercyjbeing 
never facisficd till their doubt- 
fulnefle be removcdj will bring a 
good end, ibid. 

3. Want of feeling argueth 
not want of faith, p. i<58,itf9 
Why the faithful! are fubjed to 
iiuh doubts and want of fee- 
Inig, p. 169,170 

The Hft Temptation,Tb.ty recei- 
ved the tiuth at firft without 
due trial], § j 

Rcmedie, i, God is mercifull,and 
ready to forgive our iraperfe- 
ftions, w.heo up<m tljit knoini^ 
ledge and ^ghtyw:e cor^eite ^d' 
bewajlAthem, ,! / . p. 170 
2. Faith n\ay be true,thoajh 
much were ami flc, when firft wee 
received the truth, ibid, 

g. It .IS the great wifdome 
■ind mercy of the Lord, for a time 
to hide from his children the fight 
of their infirmities and wants , 
ibid. 
The (ixt Temptation, They never 
had that dcepe forrow , which 
many have fclr, §^ 

Remedie, i. God deales not with 
all alike, p. 170,1 71. 

2.T0 doubt of Gods love be- 
caufe hee deales gently with us , 
left wee fhoiild bee fwallowed up 
of loctow , is great ignorance , 
p.171 



3. Faith may bee found in 

them who never felt fuch depth 

of forrow, as others have done , 

ibid. 

The feventhrcw/>/(//WK, They 

never felt jny great ftrength of 

griice, § 7 

Remedie , i . We are but chiWrtn, 

and tlierefore weake and fub- 

jed to many fpirituall difeafes 

p. 171 

2. Grace may be true, whiks 
itisbutfmall. ibid. 

i. If weakenefle of grace 
was any juft caufe of feare , none 
might afTure themfelves of Gods 
love, ibid. 

The eighth jrcw/?^<?f/0WjWhat they 
formerly felt is now decayed , 
§8 
Remedie. In Gods deareft chil- 
dren there may bee decay of 
graces, P-i7».i7j 

The ninth Temptation , They 
cannot find any lively fenfe of 
;■ Tfaidh, *■ % g 

^imdief I. Graces may lie hid , 
and worke , in refped of our 
acknowledgement, infenfibly, 

P-I7?, 174 

2jn the agony of confcience 

none are more imfit to judge of 

our eftate,than we are of our own, 

P-i74>i75 

3. ThcLord diverfly gives 
evidence ofhisSpirits prcfencein 
us, P.17J 

4. If for the prefent a man 
can difcerne no fparke of grace in 
himfelfe , he muft call to remem- 
brance former times, wherein hec 
hath glorified God by an holy life 
and convcrfation, P- 17J 

J. If hee bee not cble to ga- 
ther comfort from former expe- 
rience, hee muft lay hold upon 
the 



^ATahUofthe^rimifall matters. 



1 the gracious invitaiion of Chrift, 
I calling the thirfty and burdened 
foule to come unto him , p.i 7 6 
The tenth Tempt atkn^htit fins 
be many in number , and hai- 
nous for quality, § lo 

Remedie i The hainoufneffe or 
number of our (innes make us 
not uncapable of mercy, p. 1 7^ 
The eleventh Temptation, They 
are prtfled with the lieavie bur- 
then of Gods wrath. 
RemediCj i. Faith may continue 
ftrong, though fenfeofGods 
lovefaile, p.i77 

z. Faiih goeth before expe- 
rience or fenfe of mercy>and wai- 
teth for falyation by Chiift in the 
depth of miferie, ~ ibid. 

5 . Wee are not to give credit 
to, our owne feeling , but to the 
Word of God, p.177,178 

4. The dearcft fervants of 
God have in their owne fenfe ap- 
prehended wrath and indignati- 
on, p. 178 
The twelfth Temptation , They 
have long ufed the meanes and 
can find no comfort, § 11 
Remedie, i . Examine if fome bo- 
fome finne bee not that which 
makes the breach in the confci- 
ence, P«i78 
2. The Godly fometimes 
walke without comfort , becaufc 
they put it from themfelves, 
p. 179 

3. Oftentimes God caufcth 
his children to feeke long before 
they find comfort, ibid. 

4, The ardent dcfire fhallat 
length be fatisfied, ibid. 

f.Remiflion offinnes and 
peace of conlcience are favours 
worth the waiting for, ibid. 

6. Wee have not waited fd 
/ 



many yeeres in the meanes ol 
grace for comfort, as God hath 
waited for our convcrfion, p: 1 80 
The thirteenthreOTp/^a/'io«,They 
are afraid of fallmg into fome 
fearefull extremity , §12 

T^medie , i. Labour to fortific 
faith in the gracious promifes 
which God hath made to his 
children of fuftentation and 
prcfervation, -y p. 180 

z. The ftrongeft cannot 
ftand by their owne might, and 
the weakeft fliall bee able to over- 
come all their Ipirituall enemies 
by the power of the Lord, ibid. 

3. Feare is vahantly to be re- 
filled, not to be beleeved or rea- 
foned withall, p.iSi 

4. Feaic of falling arifing 
from ienfe of weakcneffe, is diffi- 
dence in God, ibid. 
The foureteenth Temptation , 

They ftiall never hold out to 
the end, § i ^ 

Remedie, i. The fame Cod who 
keepcsthem in time ofpeace,is 
able and will uphold them in 
time of trouble, p.i8i 

2. In our foreft aflaulcs 
God is at our. right hand to fup- 
port and ftay us, that we (hall not 
fall, p. 18 2 

3. If their portion of grace 
be the fmalleft of all others, they 
muft flrive to grow forward,buc 
without difcouragcment, ibid. 
The fifteenth Temptation , They 

are many waiescrofl'ed and af- 
fiided, ' §.14 

Remedie J i. God doth love ten- 
derly when he doth correft fe- 
verely, P'^Si 

2. All Gods chaftifements 
are but purgative medicines to 
prevent or cure fome fpirituall 
dif.J 



contained in this fir fi Part, 



difeafe , i^id. 

J.God requires that men in 
afflidion ftiould live by faith , 
both for a fanftiSed ufe in them, 
and a good iiluc out of them in 
due feafon, ibid. 

The fixteenth Temptaiiov, They 
are ftcongly poilcflld with 
feare that God hath uneily 
caft them ofF, § x y 

Remedie, i.Thcy muft beware 
they make not more finnes un- 
pardonable than God himfelfe 
hath ptonounced to bee of that 
fort, p. 184 

2. Seeing God doth call and 
incourage themto truft and relie 
upon him, and they ftand in need, 
and would gladly embrace his 
promifes made inChrift, they 
muft gather godly boldnefle to 
reft upon Gods grace,and courage 
to fight againft , and withftand 
Satan, P'i8f 

5. The foule cannot tafte 
fweetnefie when it is overwhel- 
med with feares, p.i 8 5, 1 86 
4. It is a fault to meafure 
the excellency offaith and power 



thereof by quantitie and unfea- 
fonable fruits ( Co to call them) 
and not by vertue, kind plantari- 
on,and feafonable fruit, p. 187 
What bee feafonable efFefts and 
fruits of faith in great tempta- 
tions and cloudy feafons,p. 187 
188 
^. Imperfedions argue not 
want of faith , but place tor fur- 
ther increafe of faith and the 
fruits thereof, p.189 

6. In Scripture we have ex- 
amples of wcake beleevers as 
Well as cf ftrong : and in one and 
the fame perfon different degrees 
of faith ac divers times, P-iS? 

7. When the heart is filled 
with feares , the calmc and ftill 
voice of the Spirit is not difcer- 
ned, p. 190 

8. In thofe fcafons the triall 
offaith is to bee taken by thofe 
fruits which ate evident to the eie 
of others, ibid. 

9. They that feele them- 
felves deftitute of grace and com- 
fort , are willed to repaire unto 
Chrift for both, p. 150,19 1 



(L// Tal?/e oftheprincipall matters 

centainedm thisfecond Part, 



I 



CBA.P. I. 

Nducements to live by, faith, 
p.i9?,i94 
Chrift is the fountaine of 
life, and faith the meane, 
P-«94,iS>5>J9^Ac. 



It is impoffible that faith fliould 

. challenge any thing of defert 

unto her felfe, ^.iq6. 

Faith is pr .'fitable for this life, 

and the life to come 5 for all 

parts and putpofesof our lives: 

but evermore it advanceih the 

srace 



zA Table ofthepri/icipall matters. 



grace of God, ibid. 

Wliat it is to live by faith, p. 197 

198 

What is to be done that we might 

live by faith,v<if . 

I. Acquaint our felves fa- 
miliarly with the Wordof God J 
p.198,199 
Befides cxprcUe Commandeaiems 
and direfl: promifes ,. there bee 
fpeciall promifes and comman- 
" disments by confequent, which 
wc aire to note and make ufe of, 
p.i9^,aao 
2.Exercifc faith aright in the 
Word, .piioo.201 

The ads.of rfaith about the 
Word^ .-' ; 

\ fKcItdoth firmelyand uni- 
verfaliyaffent to the whole Word 
of God,andfct a due price and va- 
lue upon it, pi 2QI 
. i. It ponders the word feri- 
oafl/i,.and ttcafures it upfafe, 
''■ ■ ibid. 
jt It prefer ves and keepes 
in the way of the promifcs, ibid. 
, 4. It plyes the throne of 
grace with earneft and continuall 
fupplicationSj ibid, 
y It looketii up di*€K3:Iy «n- 
to^O^ his wifdome^ower,mer-- - 
cjf^nd feithfalnelfe, p. 202 
6. It refteth quietly upon , 
God., and triumpheth before the 
viftory, rbid. 
Meanes to ftir up our fdvts to 
live by i.xxhyfeil. 

1. Find out thy unbeleefe, 

p.202,Z0 5,204,&C. 

2. See the neceflity and pre- 
cioiifneffe of faith, p.207 

3. Meditate on the grouhd^ 
of faith,-: p.-zor, 208 

4. Feeling weakenefle of 
faith, looke on Chrift, p. 208 



■ J. Pray for the Spirit of 
faith, p.2o8,2Qp 

Cha.p. it. 

W Hat is meant by Gods pro- 
mifeSj and the divers 
kinds thereof, p. 209. 210 

The promife of forgiveijj^c of 
finiies, * .p/%10 

Thtapromife is free =, ' ibid. 
Yet" obtained through Chrift on- 
° If,' ibid 

And received and poflcfled by 
faith, and by it alone, p. 2 1 1 
This promife is of faith, 

I. That it might be of free 
grace, ibid. 

*^.; That it might be ftcdfaft 
and £ttre to all the feed, p.SFfl, 
3. That onely is the^ue 
manner of Juftification , wHiA 
fliuts forth all boaltingin-the dig- 
nity of our wotkes, " ibid. 
It IS neceflary to feek pardort of fin 
by faithjfor 

I. In our fdves weije fin- 
full and curfcd, and remiflion 
which is of grace,can be obtained 
by no other meanes, but onely by 
faithin J^fus Chrift;, p 2 1 2 

— 2. Faith goeth direftly unto 
Chrift, that by him we might bee 
juftified. ' , ^ p.^M 

3. Faith iirkhe promifes of 
■ mercy, doth commend and main- 
taine the glory of Gods grace , 
ibid. 
The a^5 of f^ith touching this 
promife! of forgivenefle be di- 
vers. .^.. 
^ li If ■^.neraily beleeveth tlSe 
promife ^jj bee true , and there- 
by Sifcer^that finne is pardo- 
nable^ _ 'y p.2ij,2i4 

*2. It ftirretk up carntft de- 
....... fitesi' 



contained in this fecond Part* 



fires and longings to be made par- 
taker of this mercy, p.214,llf 
5. It draweth us forward to 
feeke mercy of God by nnfained 
confeflion and hearty fupplicati- 
on, p.ziy,n6,ii7 

4. It embraceth and refteth 



doubt of the mercy of the 
Lord, ibid. 

Thedeteftationof^finneis great- 
ly to be commended, if they re- 
member withall, that there is 
hope in Ifrad concerning this, 
p.zzS 



upon the fpecialland free mercy of There be finnes of ignorance, in- 



God in Chrift for pardon, p.xiS 

f .It doth certifie of pardon 

granted and fealed unto us, pag. 

How faith doth afliire that our 

finnes are already pardoned , 

p.ii9 

Three prerogatives accompany 
confident aflurance. 

1. Peace with God. 

2. Free accefle unto the 
throne of grace. 

3. Joy in the Holy Ghoft 
unfpeakable and glorious., p. a lo 

221 

6. By faith wee continue in. 

this blefled ftate, in fweet peace 

and fcUowfliip with God, p.iai 

Z23 

A Chriftian may live by faith for 
manydayes, or rather all the 
dayes of his life, in fweet peace 



firmity, forgetfiilneffc and fiid 
den paffion:and there be foule, 
enormous , notorious finnes, 
which wound confcience, pag. 

Il8,22p 

Ifa man have often fallen into 
notorious offences, he is not to 
defpaire, P'^^,^ 

A foule offence after grace recei- 
ved is not unpardonablejp.229 

2|0 

Many ccmplaine they cannot be- 
• leeve, when indeed cheythinke 
there is no promife of mercy 
made unto them., upon which' 
they (hould ground their con- 
fidence, p. 230 
Such muft knovv , 1 . That God 
calleth them 
come unto him 
ticularly name them. 

2. They muft ceinfideE -of 



and communion with God, if the free grace of God in prorai 
hee will learne tomaintaine, '' . . • r • 1 r , r^ 



and take paines to exercife his 
faith aright, p. 2 2^,224 

To what meafure of joy a Chri- 
ftian may attaine, pag. 225 
226 
Two fpeciallcaufes there be, why 
< many good Chriftians live fo 
long in feare and doubt. 

I. An immoderate aggra- 
vation of their finne,and continu- 
all thought of their unworthincs, 
p.227 
Thefe muft knpw'it is good to de- 
nie themfelves . but not to 



fing, and his faithfulnefle in ma 

king good whatfoever hee hath 

promifed, - 1 ^ • iblH. 

The fecond caufe is , ignorance of 

the way ' how this alTurarice is 

to be fought, upon what foiin- 

dationitistobeelaid , in what 

order they come unto it^ P-^^^i 

Two things are fpccially to bee 

learned for thdrdircftion. 

I. That aflbone as ever a^ 

manfeeles finne as a burthen, and 

doth truly thirft to beeafed of it, 

hee hath a calling to come unto 

Chrift, p.i3i,252| 

A 2.The 



3W, 1. That God 
n in his word to j 
um,asifhedidparr. ', 



A Table of the frincifAU matters 



z. The barren in grace muft 

come unto Chrift to befupplyed 

ofhisfulneffe, p.iji 

Direftionstothe wtake, how to 

ftirre up thcmfelves tobeleeve 

when they feele no comfort. 

1, They muft unfaincdly 
humble their foules before God 
in the confeilion of finne , with 
earneft prayer for pardon , pig. 

HI 

2. They muft rowfe and 
ftirre up themfdves to beleeve , 
with reafons drawne from the 
promifes and covenant of God 
made in Jefus Chrift, confidera- 
tions taken out of the word, and 
experience of his dealing with o- 
therhis fervants in former times, 

p.i34,i3f 
5, They muft bee inftant 
with the Lord to give them both 
ftrength of faith, and the fight of 
their beleefc, p 235,136 

4. They muft comfoit their 
hearts in the certainty of Gods 
Word , though for the piefent 
they feele no comfort, P- 2- 3 6 
Thus faith isdaily tobeeprefer- 
vedandquickencd, ibid. 

Chap. III. 



OF the promifes of Sandifica- 
tion, P-'^U 

A Cbriftian is allowed to beleeve 
thefe promifes, for, 

1. In the covenant of grace 
God hath promifed to take away 
the heart of ftone,&c. p.238 

2. The fountaine of grace 
is Cet open unto the thirfty , and 
hee is invited to come and drinke, 
to the fatisfying of his foule , 

ibid. 
5, Chrift by his bloud hath 



upon Chrift for grace and ability 
to walkeinhis wayes, i 



purchafedfor his people allfpiri- 

tuall bleflings in heavenly things, 

p.i39 

4. Wee are taught to aske ot 
God in Chrift, increafc and 
ftrength of grace, ibid. 

5. The faithfull have relyed 
)ility ^ 
ibid. 

6. Mans duty is Gods free 
gift of grace, ibid. 
It is necefl'ary to beleeve that 

God will fanftifie our nature , 

and enable us to the duties of 

holinefle. 

For, I. Juftification andfanftifi- 

caiion be mdividuall, P'^19 

2. "Othcrwife Chriftiaas 
(hall very much ftagger, be off and 
on, coldly fet upon the praftice of 
Chriftianity, p. 240 

3. Our owne ftrength is too 
weakc for the work of holinefle, 

ibid, 

4. SetledneflTe in this , that 1 
God will perfed the worke of ho- 
linefle begun, caufeth men to goe 
about the worke of mortification 
with much readinelTe, ibid. 

5. The promifes of God con- 
cerning fpirituall things are link- 
ed together, p. 24. 1 
The afts of faith about the pro- 
mifes of faqdification. 

I. It acquaints man with his 

cmptincfl'e of grace , and the 

ftrength of his inbred corruption, 

p.141,242 

i. It fheweth where the 
ftrength is to bee had which wee 
want,and ftirres up to a conftant, 
confc!onable,»and diligent ufe of 
the raeanes of grace, p. 242r 

3. It inciteth to an holy im- 
provement of what grace we have 
received, p.*45 

4.1t 



I- 



contained in this fecond Part ^ 



4. It fightcth courageoufly a- 
gainft finne, and cryeth inftantly 
to the Lord for hclpe, ibid. 

f . It fubmitteth willingly to 

what courfe the Lord is pleafed to 

take for the crucifying of finne, 

ibid. 

6. Faith is the band or finew 
whereby we are tyed unto Chrift 
the fountajne of grace, p. 245, 

24* 

7- True faith flirreth up to 

thankfiilncfie for the beginning 

of fan^ification, P-i4J 

The meanes how a Chriftian is 

to ftirre up faith to beleeve 

that Cod will fandiifie him, 

when hee feeth nothing but 

- thraldome. 

r. Hee muft bewaile his 

fpirituall nakedneffe , thraldome, 

and vaflallage under finne, p. 24 f 

\ 2.4^ 

2-He muft looke to the grace, 

truth, and power of God , who 

hath promifed to fanftifie : to the 

fulncfle and fufficiency that [$ in 

Chrift the fountaine of grace, p. 

2463247 

5.. Hee muft pray inftantly 

unto the Lord for fandifying 

grace, p. 247,248 

4. It is good to move the 

heart quietlyto reft in the promife, 

and rejoyce in hope, p. z/^% 

Chap. IHL 

CHrift hath purchafed for us 
life evcrlafting no lefle than 
righteflufnefle, p. 248,249 

Etcrnall life is promifed upon con- 
dition of faith in Chrift , p. 

Lite etcrnall is begun in them that 
beleeve, ibid. 



When firft'wee beleeve , then are 
we intituled to life evcrlafting, 
and fo have the accomplifii, 
ment of glory in refpeft of 
right and propriety, pag, 249 
250 
It is our duty to beleeve in God 
throughjefus Chrift for the ob- 
taining of etcrnall life to bee 
given of grace, p.2j i 

It is very necefl*ary tfo beleeve it. 

i.That we might with more 

q^iietnefle of mind beare the af- 

nifttons, troubles, and perfecuti- 

onsjwhich befall us in this world, 

p.aji 

2. It ferves to eftablifti our 

hearts againft fimdry vyorldly 

cares and fcares, ibid. 

5. If wee Iceepe Heaven in 

our eye, wee ftjall fight courage- 

oufly J and runnc with patience , 

notwithftanding all oppofition , 

p. 2f2 

The afts of faith concerning 
thefe promifes- 

1. As an humble petitioner 
it rcceiveth and layeth bold up- 
on falvation it felfe promifed, p. 

252 

2. Faith doth not begin to 
apprehend life , and then leave it 
to workes, but doth ever reft upon 
the promife untill we come to en- 
joy it, ,Pj2.rj 

3. By faith wee receive the 
promifed Spirit, a$ the earneft of 
our inheritance, ibid. 

4. Faith in the piomifef of 
evcrlafting life leadeth forward 
in the paths of peace and righte- 
oufneffe, p.254,255 

y. It feckcth to get our ti- 
tle confirmed and affured to the 
confcience by evidence , and ear- 
neft, or pawne, p. 25? 
A a 6lt 



A Table of the^rineij^all matters 



6. It ftriveth t5 enter the 
poffelsion of this heavenly king- 
dome by degrees, p.25 5,z56 

7. It earneftly defires and 
longcth after the full accomplifli- 
ment of glory, p.i?^ 

8. Itaffureth that wee are 
made heires of glory , to which 
God of his grace will bring us 
in his time appointed, pag. 256 

»57 
God in great mercy doth YQuch- 
fafe to his adopted fonncs ma- 
ny excellent royalties in this 
life, p.zj7>s8 

Theafts of faith that arife from 
the priviledges of the godly in 
. this life. : 

I. Faith vefteth upon the 
grace ofGod to receive from him 
whatfoevet may be good and pro- 
fitable, p.2f9 
z. It petitioneth inftantly 
forfuccour, p. 160 
g. It receiveth earthly blef- 
fings as gifts of the covenant, and 
tokens of love, ibid. 
4.Faith in thefe and the forc- 
faid promjfes doth greatly enlarge 
the heart towards God, p.ztfi 
f. It doth inwardly quiet 
andcheare the heart inthemidft 
of manifold outward difcourage- 
ments, * ibid. 
[ The way and nwanes to ftirrc up 
faith in thefe promifesi 

1. To humble our felves 
unfainedly in refpeft of our 
miferable and accurfed eftate by 
finfle , and former carelefneflc 
to fecke mercy, &c.pag. 261.262 

263.&C. 

2. Wee muft incite and 
flirre up our felves to receive the 
promifes of everlafting life , by 
consideration of the free and rich 



grace of God, his truth and faith- 
fulnefle j the fufficiency of 
Chrifts merits j and greatneffe , 
excellency and worth of the be- 
nefit promifed , pag. 264, 265 
2<5g &c. 

g. Wee miift pray earneftly 
that God would increafe our 
faith, feale us by his Spirit,leadus 
in the way of peace , caufe us to 
grow up in holmefle , make us 
wife to pri^e and value, totafte 
and rellilhthc joyes of Heaven , 
and affure our confcienccs of 
right and title to that everlafting 
inheritance, ip.zS^^ijo 

4< Wee muft quicken our 
felves to rejoyce in God, wait pa- 
tiently, and walke chcercfully be- 
fore him, p. 270, 171 

Chap. V. 

GOd hath made many promi- 
fes of pcrfeverance, pag. 

The love which God beareth to 
his people is an everlafting 
love, and the covenant which 
hee hath made with them efFe- 
dually, and fliall be kept aflli- 
rcdly , is an everlafting cove- 
nanr, P-iTi^ayj 

The condition of the covenant is 
promifed in the covenant it 
felfe, P-a?? 

All the faithfull are built upon the 
rocke,not upon the rocke now, 
and anon upon the fand, p.274 

The ftieepe of Chiift fhall never 

perifh, neither fhall any man 

plucke them out of his hand , 

p. 274 

They are fenced againft the treac 
chery of their ownc hearts re- 
maining in them, p4*75r 
the 



contained 4n this fecond Part, 



The holy Spirit is fent into their 
hearts to dwell and remaine 
with them , as an earneft of 
their inheritance, untill the re- 
demption of the purchafed pof- 
fcffion, ibid. 

The life which they live by faith 
in Chrifi, is an e veclafting life, 

p.Z7<f 
Chrift hath praied for his people 
that thtir faith fhoiild not faile, 
ibid. 
We arcafTured from God,thai: hee 
will perfeft the woike of grace 
which he hath begun, ibid. 
By ferious meditation on thefe 
promifes wee mult fettle our 
felves in bclceving oiu- perfevc- 
rancc : which is very necelTary. 
For I. Had it not becne a point 
of great weight , the Lord 
would not have mentioned it 
fo often, P'i77 

». Wee areweakcand feeble 
towithftjnd, our fpirituall ene- 
mies potent and vrgtlant to af- 
fule, ibid. 

3. Our weaktncflc is not 
greater than our backwardnefle to 
beleevc the promifes of perfeve- 
rance, when wee ftandinmoft 
need, ibid. 

4.Whilft Chriftians diftruft- 
fully queftion their perfeverance , 
all piefent favours fceene the lelTe, 
jU other promifes bee held the 
more weakly, ibid. 

f. Confidence in the promi- 
fes of perfeverance doth encou- 
rage and quicken in a Chriftian 
ceiirfe, _ p. 17 8 

Hce that hath faith indeed will 
notj nay, he cannot cake cou- 
rage to goc on in fin upan this 
pretence, that faith once had , 
cannot utterly be loft, ibid. 



6, Locke how much wee 
come fhoit in beleeving the faith- / 
full promifes of God, concerning 
our future proteftion from all 
hurtfuil evils , fo «iuch arc wee 
lacking to found peace and ft'able 
tranquillity of mind and C^nfci- 
ence, p. 179,289 

The godly are allowed to belcevc 

their perfeverance. 

For, I. God hach confirmed it by 

promife and covenant unto his 

children, p.zSo 

z.They have allowance to be- 

leeve the obtaining of that which 

Chrift hath praiedfor.&they aske 

of God in the Name of Chnft ac- 

cordmgtohiswill, p.zSo^iSi 

3. What one beleeved upon 
ordinary and comnion grounds , 
that is the pnviledge of all belec- 
vers , p.2?i 

4. Ic is a great glory to God, 
that wee live by faith on him 
concerning our future eftate,ibid. 
The afts of faith concerning per- 
feverance. 

1. It mckes a man fenfible of 
his owne frailty, p. 18 2 

2. Ic ftirres up anholy jea- 
loufie and fufpiiipn, left wee 
(hould coole, decay , ftart afidc or 
fallbacke, ibid. 

3. Faith inftan^ly crycth un- 
to the Lord for help and ftrength, 
and continuall fupply of grace, 

p.28i 

4. Faith defircth , digeftech, 
and feedeth upon the whoifame 
food of life, ibid. 

f . It putteth forth it felfe to 

performe all duties of holineffe 

and love with life and fervour, p. 

284 

6 It covetethincreafe of grace 

andfanftification, p.iSj 

A 5 7.\t 



A Table ofthefrhcifaH matters 



7. It receiveth new fupply 

of grace continually from Jefus 

Chnft the fountaine of grace , 

p.286 

8. It affureth of perfeve 



}. We have a charge to refift 
the Devill itrong in the faith,ibid. 

4. Faith is oneofthefirit 
things that is formed in a Chri- 
ftian, and wherewith God furni- 



raiice through the promifes of (heth him, when he prepareth and 
grace, ibid, calleth him forth to the encoaa- 

Meanes to ftirre up our fclves to 
beleeve thefc promifes of perfc- 
verance. 

I. Wee muft heartily be- 
waile our pronenefle to finne, 
aptnefle to decline , inability to 
witbftand any one temptation^or 
fet one ftep forward in the way to 
Heaven, p.aS/jzSS 

a. Wee muft ftirre up our 
felves to reft upon God through 
Jcfus Chrift , for eftabliflament 
and confirmation, p.zSSiSp 
3. Wee muft prayinftantly 
thai God would uphold us, and 
make us to fee that hee willefta- 
blifhus unto the end^ p. 189, 190. 



Chap. VI. 

THe fervants of Chrift are all 
fouldicrs J and have conti- 
all warre , not with flefh and 
bloud, but with principalities, 
and pf.w«rs , and Ipirituall 
wickedneffes, p- 190 

Encouragement to refift Satan , 
^.290,291 
Promifes of viftory, p. 291 

In this ftate of temptation the 
godly are allowed to beleeve 
the promifes ofviftory. 
For , 1 . T he G od of peace hath 
promifed to tread Satan under 
our feet (hoitly, p-ipt ,292 
%, Faith doth glorifie God , 
and is moft profitable unto usj 
our treafure, ftrength, and vifto- 
rie, p. 29a 



ter, 29 J 

5. The faithfull cannot bet- 
ter provide for their owne eaft 
and fafety , than confidently to 
hope in the Lord, ibjd- 

It is neceffary a Chriftianfliouiii 
live by faith in this condition 
For, I. True valour" cannot be had 
without faith in Chnft, ibid. 
2. All our ftrength liethin 
Chrilt, whofe Almighty power 
fubdueth all things for us , p. 294 
3. Faith is of force to kee^e 
us againft all afTaults of the De- 
vill, ibid. 
4. The Devill will renew 
his afTaults, and wee muft renew; 
our courage and fticngth, p^z^f 
The afts of faith in refpe^ of 
thefe promifes of viftory in', 
temptation. 

I. Faith makes fenfiblc that 
we cannot refift of our felves: bu 
affureth that Sitan is chained up" 
by the power of Almighty God, 
'■'i~- p.29^,;i96 
^, It difcovereth the Me- 
thods of Satan and his Ends in 
tempting, p. 296 

3. It lifteth up the heart to 
cry and complaine unto God of 
the cruelty and malice oFthatfpi- 
rituall Adverfary, but fuffcrsir 
not?to mufe upon his blafphe- 
mous temptations, p. 296, 297 
4 By faith the poore foule 
eying the promife, betakes it felfc 
UHta the Lord for fuccour promi- ; 
fedi p.i97 



contained in this fecond Part, 



f. It ftirrcth up conragc and fo ftirre up himfelfe tobeleeve. 
refolution to fet upon the praftice For, 



of godlinefle , and the duties of 
our particular calling, as the 
mcanes fanftified ef God to pro- 
cure freedome, p. 297,298 

6. It fornfieth the loule a* 
gainft all invifions, p. 29 8, 299 

7. Faith is vigilant and 
watchfull at all times, in all pla- 
ces, upon all occasions, p. 299 

8. In the tnoft forcible tem- 
pefts which the enemic raiCeth a- 
gainft us, faith tels the heart that 
a calme is at hando p-J 00 

9. If Satan renew his z£- 
laults , faith ftands prepared 
through the power of God to 
make refiftancc afrefli , pag.300 

JO I 

10. Faith aflureth , that by 
the 'over-ruling providence of 
God, temptations ferve for the in- 
creafe of grace, p.^oi 
Thcgodly are fomctimes brought 

(o low,that they can difcern no 
fparkof faith,no fruit of grace, 
no mark of Gods love in them- 
felves.For, 

1. An afflded fpirit, tofled 
with feare and terrour, cannot 
conceive or give notice of its true 
eftatc, p.30i,?o2 

2. Good men in temptation 
are pettiihiy difpofed, p.302 
The Remedy in this diftrcfle is, 

1. Grace may appeare unto 
others , when in temptation a 
godly man cannot difcerne it in 
himfelfe, ibid. 

2. It is the wifedome of a 
Chriftian m this cafe to obferve 
the marke that Satan drives at, 
which is to hide from his fight 
the graces of the Spirit , that hec 



1 . When he can fee no grace 
in his foule , hec cannot buc fee 
himfelfe tobeemiferable , andfo 
called to come unto Chrift, p. 

302 

2. Taking courage to bee 
leeve,he difappoints Satan, ibid. 

3. Wee have a commande- 
ment to beleeve as well as to 
proove our felves, both which 
muft bee complete together j p. 

4. If thou can ft not find in 
thy feife what thou feekeft after, 
come unto Jefus Chrift, and be- 
leeve in him, that thou mayft re- 
ceive what thou feekeft, ibid. 

3. The diftreffcd foule muft 
learne, that the grace of God wor- 
keth not alwaies alike in his chil- 
dren, ibid. 

4. The long and manifold 
temptations of Satan, wherewith 
bee feekes to throw Chriftians 
head-long into defpaire,is to them 
a teftimony of the inhabitation of 
the fpirit in their hearts, p. 303, 

304 
Meanes to ftirre up faith in thcfe 
perplexities and times of grie- 
vous temptations. 

1. The diftreffed Chriftian 
muft unfainedly humble his foule 
for forrrier ignotance , vanitie of 
mindj dif-efteeme of mercy, timo- 
roufneffe, difcontent , unbeleefe , 
&c. p.304,305 

2. Hee muft complaine of 
the malice of Satan, and inftantly 
intreat the Lord to pardon finne, 
bridle,reft raine , and tread Satan 
underfoot, p.?o^,jo6 j 

j.He muft ceafe to mufe on 



might bring him to defpairc :and the temptations of Satan, and | 

A 4 ftisre 



A Table ofthepri»cipaU matters 



ftirre up himfelfe courageoufly , 
valiantly to truft in the mercies of 
the Lord, and rely upon his grace, 
p.307,308 
4. Hce muft exercile him- 
felfe in well doing, harbour holy 
and heavenly Meditations ^ nou- 
ri(h the motions of Gods Spirit, 
&c. p.3o8,i09,&c. 

If the diftreffed Chriftian have 
vf aftcd bis fpirits with violent 
and continuall forrow,he muft 
bee admoniihed, not to thinke 
that prefently hee fhould reco- 
ver formtr livelineffe and abi - 
lity, p-sn 

Chap.VIL 

AFflidionsarenot more ordi- 
nary, than heavie and bur- 
tbenfome to be borne, p. 3 1 1 
Wee ftand in need to be holpen 
againft difcouragements in af- 
flidion, P'S^i 

God cotrefteth 

I . In great wifedome, ibid. 
z.Meafure, ibid. 

3. For a moment, p.j 12,513 

4. In love and tcnderncfle, p. 

And that I. To prove. 2. To 
purge. 3. To refine. 4. To 
conHrme grace, p. 3 ihl^4 

He will deliver the righteous out 
of trouble, P'3''4 

Is tender over them in trouble, p. 

314,?!^ 
And prefcnt for their helpe, pag. 

It is moft ncceffary that we learne 

to live by faith in afflidions, 

ibid. 

For I. Faith is the ground of H- 
knt and quiet expadation of 
falvatioii, P'5'^ 



i. Faith in God is the onl) 
ftay and fupport of the heart in 
trouble and afflidion, ibid. 

3. Faith is the (hield of the 
foule , whereby it is defended a- 
gainlt all the fiery darts of the 
Devill, p.317 

4. Faith onely fuppUcs all 
our wants in afflidion, pag. 3 17 

y. AflSidions profit not, if 
they bee not mixed with faith in 
them that beare them, p.^ 1 8 

The gf dly are allowed to live by 

faith in sfflidions. 
For, I. Gjdiinrfl'e hath the pro- 
mife of thislifc,and that which 
is to cone, P'5i8 

2. The godly have had this 
confidence in former times,whofe 
pradice is both a token of our 
priviledge, and patterne of our 
duty, P,Ji8,3i9 

3. God is hereby much glo- 
rified , that wee rely upon him as 
our rock of defence, p. 5 19 

4. The Lord commandeth us 
to wait upon him in times of 
trouble, ibid. 

^. Confidence in God doth 

the more bind him, as it were, to 

doeusgood, p.3i9,3io 

The afts of faith in refped; of 

thefe promifes» 

I. It looketh unto God. and 
acknowledgeth his band in all af- 
flidions, whofoever be the inftrn- 
ments, ?'i^° 

2. Itteacheth that we are in 
fiich diftreflcs,out of which none 
can helpe uj,but the ftrong helper 
oilfraely p. 3 20, 3 21 

This drawes the heart from car- 
nall repofe in means or friends, 
and expels vexations and di- 
ftrading cares, '. ibid, 

?.It 



contained in this fecond Pan^ 



J. It wilely diied.tii ns to 
confidcr, thatthecaiifeof all mi- 
fery and forrow is finne, pig- j a i 
4, Faith meekeneth the 
heart willin-ly to fubmit itfelfe 
to the good pleafuie of God, and 
patiently to bearc his correction, 
p.32i,3z.z 
I Faith comforteth theconfciencc, 
and cutbech unbndled pafli- 
ons, P-Si2. 

The confiderations whereby 
fairh perfwadt-th unto meek. 
ncffe, be tnanvjftrong,and irre- 
fiftibie. As, ' 

I. The defcrt of finne, which 
is farre greater than any thing we 
fuffer, p. 5 1 a 

X. The hand that layeth the 
rod upon our backe , v'l^. God 
our moft wife, j«ft, gracious and 
loving Father, p. 3 12,325 

3. That this Clip ^ how bit- 
ter and wringing foever , is a me- 
dicine to cure, not a poyfon to de- 
fttoyj miniftred in great love 
and tender compaflion to drive 
out corruption , confirme faith , 
prefervc from falling , ftrengthen 
grace, weane from the world,and 
Bnngnearer unto Godjp. 3 23,3 24, 

4. After ferious humiliation 
faith bringeih tidings, thit God 
will looke downe from Heaven 
in mercy, and fend heipe in fitteft 
feafon, P3»f,J26 

5. Faith doth rc-minde us of 
our conformity with Chrift inaf- 
fliftions , and of his pariner-(V»ip 
with us therein, p. 3 16 

6. Faith fetteth before us 
the infinite rccompence of re- 

fward, p.Jirf.JJT 

The fift aft of faith , It teacheth 
wifdomc to judge aright of all 



afflidions, PJi? 

6. True and unfaincd con- 
fidence will not kecpe filence in 
the earcs of the Lord,nor ceafe to 
importune his aid, &c.pag, 328 

7. Itraifeththe heart,being 
confcious of Its weakenefle,to relt 
upon the Lord for Itrcngth, who 
makes us able to doe all things 
throi^h kis ftrengthening of us, 

P- 3 ^9,3 30.3 3 » 

8. By faith the godly heart 
is drawnc to ufe all meanes of 
helpe that God in his providence 
doth affoord, but refteth quietly 
upon Gods promifes , and aflu- 
rance of his prefence above all 
likelihoods and appearances , p. 

33> 

This manner of depcndance on 
the promifes which faith work- 
etb, is abfolute without limita- 
tion of time, mcalureof affli- 
dion,or manner of delive- 
rance, P-3 3»,35i 

What faith turneth it felfe to me- 
ditate upon for fupport in this 
cafe, p.33i,?3? 

9. Faith belecveth one con- 
trary in another, and out of the 
deepeft diftreffes gathereth aflu- 
rancc of fwceteft deliverances, p. 

333>?54,3Jf 
I©. It rejoyccth in tribula- 
tions, and triumpheth before the 
vidory, P.3J5 

Wee miift live by faith in the hf a 
vitft affliftions, and of longefi 
continuance, p-335,536 

The ads of faith in this cafe. 

1. It teacheth, that many 
and ftrong afftiftionSjOflong con- 
tinuance, are no more thannecef- 
fary, P3?^nr 

2. Faith in the gveateft ex- 

tremities 



^A Table of the frittcipall matters 



uemities fuggefteth, that wee are 
under the hand of God, who cor- 
rtfteth in meafure and for our 
profit 5 who hath determined the 
time and weight of our slflidi- 
ons , and by his bleffing will 
turne them to our good , pag.j 3 8 

5. Faith fetteth a man a- 
bout his wotke , that is, ferioufly 
to make enquiry into his heart 
and wayes, dcepcly to humble 
himfelfe before God,and fervent- 
ly tointreat mercy for finne paft, 
wifedome to make ufe of jwefent 
naifery,and favour to befet free,p. 
3^9»34o 
4. Faith raifeth the heart to 
cxpeft abundance of mercy from 
God^and through prayer and fup- 
ply of the Spirit to reape profit 
and tafte comfort anfwerable to 
the forrowes it hath felt and en- 
dured, P-?4o,34i 
Living by faith intimesoftriall 
- and vifitation , doth fit and 
prepare the heart tothankful- 
nefle when light (hall (hine 
from on high : and that fo 
much the more , as our ajEHit^i- 
onshavc beene the fiiarpcr , p. 

541 

Inaffliftion faith fcemeth to bee 

moft weake, and corruption 

moft ftirring. 

I. Many doubtfull thoughts 

afcend inChriftians hearts,partly 

becaufc they know not that they 

are allowed to live by faith in an 

affl/ded ftatc, partly becaufe they 

judge amifle of their affiidions, 

z. Godsphyficke, whileft it 
is driving out corruption , makes 
us fcele and complaiae of it more 
than ever, P-54^ 



^. In afHidions taith is tn- 
ed, the fweetnefle of it is not fo 
much felt, ibid. 

4. Itis the office of faith to 
receive the portion, and further 
the kindly working of it , which 
cannot be done , unlefl'e it ftirre 
up godly forrow, and wrei^k 
painfully to drive out corruption, 

P'34i 
Helpes to ftirre up faith in deepe 
afHidioQS when all meanes 
faile. 

1. Wee muft lay open out 
forrowes before the Lord , and 
powre out our complaint before 
li'm, P-i45J44 

2, Confeffe o«r finncs with 
hatre d and godly forrow , pag. 

344 

5. Take up our hearts for hal- 
ting through unbeleefc , and call 
upon them to reft inthepromife 
of divine aid, aftiftance, and deli- 
verance, p.544 345 

4. Importune the Lord, and 
dired our fupplications before 
him, p.? 46 

5. Quicken our refolution 
to truft in the Lord at all times , 
even when all refuge failcth,p. 

54<S.5*7 
Chap. VIIL 

GOd hath made many promi- 
fes of earthly bleffings.p. 

347 
In fpeciall the Lord promileth 
length of daics,health,ftrength, 
weahhjfavour, pcace,joy,good 
fucc^ ffe,fafety,good name : and 
all thefe not onely to the righ- 
teous themfelvcs, bat to their 
children and pofterity, P.J48, 

349.3(0 
It-' 



contained in this fecofid Part^ 



It IS neceflrtiy to beleeve thefe 
promifeSjfor, 

X. Faith in thefe promifes 
doth kill covetous defires , di- 
Itruftfull and diftrading cares, p, 

1, Hee will never renounce 
carnall fupports, who makes not 
God the ftay of his foule for out- 
ward things, P'jyi 

J. Beleefe in God brings 
good fuccefle, ibid. 

4. If wee cleave not to the 
promiies of God made concerning 
temporali things, we (hall adhere 
to the promifes of life with kflc 
aiTurance, ibid. 

J. Faith fwectneth and fan- 
difieth unto us the ufe of all out- 
ward comforts under our hands , 
p.jji 
The godly are alTowtd to live by 
faith touching thefe promifes: 
For, 

I. Seeing God hath gtren 
Chrift for us , how (hall hee not 
with him alfo freely give us all 
things? P'3f2, 

2. The Lord by covenant 
hath promifed to furnifh his peo- 
ple with all needful! blcmngs 
pertaining to this life, p-353 

3. God isouriaithfullCre- 
atour,v»t the woike of his hands : 
He is our Sficpheard,we the flock 
of his pafture : He is our Father, 
we his children, P'3T4,35? 

4. The patient expcdation 
of the Saints hath confirmed this, 
that God will not bee wanting to 
his children in things of this life. 

The afts of faith in refpeft of 
thefe promifts. 

i..It prcfi rveth from the ufe 
of all unlawful! meanes, knowmg 



that nothing can pcofper which f 
God approvethnot, P'j56 

2. Faith is painfull, provi- 
dent and frugal!, p. 3 57 

?. It maketh enquiry into 
the heart , turneth fiom evill,and 
feekcth the face of the Lord ear- 
nefily, ibid. 

4. It fiirreth up to pray 
without difiruftfuUj&uitlefle, ex- 
ceffive care, &c. p.3 58 

y. It feeth riches in God , 
fubmiiteth to his wifdome , reft- 
eth in his love , and fo maintain- 
neth a Chriftian in fome meafure 
of Gontentation, ibid. 

6. In profperity it keepeth 
the heart in an holy temper and 
difpofiiion 5, in humility and 
meeknefie, tenderneffe and com- 
paffion, p.j?9 

7. It prayeth as earncflly for 
the fanftification of profperity, 
and Gods blefHng upon the 
meanes , as for the meanes them- 
felves if they were wanting, pag. 

360 

8. It makes heavenly min- 
ded in the ufe and pofleflion of a 
profperous efiate, p. 3 6o,3<Si 

9. Faith breeds godly jealou- 
fic and fufpition, leaft the heart 
fhould be drawne away with the 
pleafing delights of things tranfi- 
tory, p.3<i 

10. It mindeth us of our 
change , even when ouf moun- 
taine feemeih ftrongefi^ p.362 
How to live by faith in the ufe of 

meat and drinke. 

1 1 By faith we learne out of 
the Word of God , who hath 
fonne-like intereft and title unto 
the creatures , what creatures are 
fanftified unto our ufe , and how 
each man mufl: fanftifie them by 



^ Tdhle of the priticipall matters 



a reverent and hi ly uk, p j^g 
i. It receivcth them not as 
(the truit of our fore-caft, la- 
bour , or ^efert, but as gifts of 
Gods bounty , yea as gifts of the 
gracious covenant, ibid. 

g. By faith wee are taught , 
that man liveth not by bread on- 
ly, but by the providence of God, 
and hisbleflingupun his own or- 
dinance, P"?^4 
This perfwafion takes the heart 
off the creature, and lifteth it 
up unto the Lord in carnefl 
and pertinent prayer, ibid. 

4. Itteachcth to be heavenly 
minded , labouring to tafte Gods 
goodnefle , and fecle his gracious 
prefence with our fpitits at our 
fweeteft feafts, ibid. 

5. Faith worketh the heart 
to fobriety and moderation, 

^watchfulnefle and feare , left it 
(hould bee enfnared and drawnc 
away with thefe delights, p. 36^ 

6, It lifteth up the foule in 
thankfgiving, ^,^66,^67 

7, Faith is frugall, com- 
paflionate, induftrious, pag. 3^7 

Chap. IX. 

THe Lord calls for willing, 
chcerefull, univerf<;ll, unfai- 
ned, conftant obedience, pag.367 

Looke what fervice the Lord 
doth expeft and call for,that he 
willinable his people in cove- 
nant to performe, p. ?68,? 6^ 

The obedience of the foiihfull is 

imperfed, but pleafing, p. j 69 

570 

This faith is moft neceflary to the 
leading of a Chriftianlife,/ci/. 



to reft upon God for ability to 
doe what hee rCquircth, &c. 
For, 

1. Thewordof grace teach- 
eth us to deny ungodlines,&c.37 1 

2. Want of beleeving the 
precepts is the caufe why many do 
ftjll continue in the pradice of di- 
vers things inconvenient , ibid. 

J. Ignorance in this point is 

the caufe why fome of the better 

fort of people are ofFand on, &c. 

ibid. 

4. Faith carrieth a man whi- 
therfoever hee Ihall fee the Lord 
to goe before him, ibid. 

5 . Our prtfent fiith is com- 
menfurable to our fidelity in 
GodsCommandcnaents, pig.jT^ 

6. That aft cannot plerif' 
God , which is not animated by 
faith , P«37* 

7. When a Chriftian know* 
not whether hee ftiall have 
ftrength to doe what God requi 
rethjor his poore fervicc fliall find 
acceptance , it muft needs occafi- 
on many feares and doubrg, dead 
nefte and unchearefulne{re,p. ^72 

8. Confidence in God to be 
inabled, fttengthened, and accep- 
;ted , will cut off temptations and 

difcouragements , and noxirfih 
courage, reroiution,and forward- 
ncfle in welldoing, P«j7-{ 

Chriftians are allowed to beleeve 

that God will inablethemto 

walke in obeJience. 

1. God hath promifedin 
his covenant to teach them the 
way that they {hall chufe, p. J 74 

2, When he fends forth Ins 
fervants upon any bufineffe, hee 
doth^vermore promife to aid vnd 

affift^ 



contained in this fecoKd Part, 



afsift them in the execution of it, 
ibid. 

3. The fervants of God have 
and doe beg grace to bring forth 
fruits worthy repentance and a- 
mendment of life, ?• 3 74, 3 7 f 

4. The faithful! have bound 
themfelves by covenant and oath 
to keep the righteous judgemchts 
of the Lord, ^ P'S7J 

y. God will perfed the- fa- 
ying worke which he hath begun 
in any of hisjchildren, ibid. 

The ads of faith touching obedi- 
ence required. • 

I. It makes a man wife to 
difcerne what is lawful] , good, 
andfeafonable, P 57^ 

a. It curbes inordinate paf- 
fions, and overcomes all impedi- 
ments, tern ptattons,difficutties and 
alliu'emerits to the contrary, p. 

37<'.377.378 

3. It piirifieth the heart, iea- 
foneth every faculrie of foule^qua- 
lifiethand ftrengtheneth naturall 
inclinations, altereth tbe ftate of 
every appetite , and fb inableth to 
obey, p.378 

4. Admirable in force and 
efficacy is the perfwafion of faith 
abovcaU the oratory in the world, 

• P.378,379- 

5. It difpofeth and moveth 
the heart to abfolute , uniformej 
unpartiall and conftant obedience, 

, r , , P'5 79,380 

6. It nres the heart with un- 
quenchable love, which in com- 
parifon of obedieiice contemneth 
the whole world, p.380' 

7. Faith makes fenfible of 
our manifold infirmities:and that 
hathblefledjefie(5h. 

I. Itcaufeth ferious me- 
ditJltion upon the Word of G od. 



that it might ilnke dcepe into the 
heart, P-s8i 

2^. Itworketh the heart 
often to reriew its refolution, tru- 
fiing in Gods grace, ibid. 

3. It ftirres up earneft 
and hearty prayer^ to bee taught , 
upheld , and confirmed, pag.jSi 

8. It doth confirme in obe- 
dicncciand prick forward therein, 
though it be in manifold and bit- 
ter perfecutions, p»3 82,383 
Meanes how to quicken our faith 
to the <hearefwll praftice of 
that duty, whereuntd wee find 
our felves dull and fluggiih. 

1. Wee muft acknowledge 
and bewaile this dulneffe and 
fIoth,make it hatefull, and fiiamc 
our felves for it before the Lord, 

P-3 83,584 

2. Call upon our foules by 
many powerfull and ftrong per- 
fwafions to avvake to the worke 
of God withlivelinefle, pag.38f, 

3. Pray to the Lord that he 
would I'evive and quicken us, p. 

- 3»6 

4. Renew our refolution to 
walke with God , truftingin his 
gracej - ibid. 

Chap. X. 

CHriflians are allowed to live 
by faith iirthe duties of their 
vocation. For , I. God hath 
commanded us to labour in a 
iiaHing , 2. Prcfcribed the 
bounds of our calling, 3. And 
promifed his blefsing to our 
honeft endeavours , pag, 3 87- 
388 
ItisnecefTary wee (houldtiveby 
faith 



tATayieofthe^rincifall matters 



faith in the duties of our voca- 
tion. 

1. To prevent the evils 
which befet us in our ordinary 
callings , as covetoufneffe , inju- 
ftice, impatience, and diftrading 
care, p.? 88 

2. That worke is not accep- 
uble, which is not done in faith, 

p.388,}c,9 
The ads of faith in rcfped of the 
duties of our calling. 

1. It informeth to make 
choice of an honeft vocation for 
which wee are fitted , and into 
which we may enter by good and 
lawful! meanes, p.5 Z9 

2. Faith inftrufteth not to 
meddle above out knowledge, but 
to leane upon the living God, not 
on our skill or cunning, pag. 389 

^. It quickeneth the moft 

skilfull workman to ftrive with 

God in prayer, that the worke he 

fctteth about might fucceed well, 

andprofper, P'390 

4. It caufeth diligence, care, 

uprightncfle and faithfulneffe in 

all the workes , adions and bufi- 

nefle of our calling , as knowing 

that whileft wee walke honeftly 

therein,we do fervice to the Lord, 

p.590,391 

f. It encourageth to the 

moftdfficult, painefuU, and ("in 

the worlds efteeme ) difgracetuU 

workes of our callings, pag. 59 x 

€. It ftrengtheneth agamft 
manifold trotibles,difgr3ces,oppo- 
fitions and difcouragements that 
men meet withall in their places , 

7. It direds wifely to order 
the afifaires of our calling , and to 

/ 



goe about them in good manner, 

P-393 

8. It teaciieth to moderate 
cares , confine defires of earthly 
things , and commit our fclves to 
God forthefucccfleofourworkj - 

9. It fupportetU with 
ft length patiently to bearc the ca- 
lamities that accompany us in our 
callings, p.394.?9J 

lo.Faith reftrainech diftruft- 
full care concerning the fucceffe 
of our labours , but is not flackc 
to crave Gods bleffing upon our 
labours, P'^PJ 

1 1. If wee find wifhed fuc- 
ceffe , it makes vigilant, friigall , 
humble,mercifulland thankefull, 

p. ?9J,396 
It. Faith coupleth the la- 
bours of our calling with the pra- 
diceof Chriftianity, p-39^ 

How wee fhould live by faith 
touching the fucceffe of that 
worke w hereunto wee are cal- 
led , which wee finde to bee 
much above out tlrength or 
meanes. 

1. Faith caufeth felfe deni- 
all in refped of judgement, wif- 
dome, and power, p. 3 9^j J 9 7 

2. It teacheth fubmiffion to 
Gods diredton, and dependance 
upon his aidjhelpe, and affiftancc, 

P-? 97,59 8 
The props of this faith are two. 

1, The cxad infinite wif- 
dome of God , who knowcth 
what meanes bee fit to bee ufcd 
now,and what not, P'598 

2. Gods providence which 
rules in every thing which falls 
out,even the leaft matters, ibid. 

3. Faith thus underprop- 
ped bringeth forth induftry and 
endeavour 



contained in this fecond Part\ 



endeavour to obfervc God in his 

providence, p.j^S.jpp 

4. Faith cannot^ bee filcnt : 

Hee that beleeveth Vvill pray, 

%. It putteth life and har- 
dineffe into us, ibid. 

6. It waiteth upon God for 
good fucceflc, and triuinpheth be- 
fore the vidory, ibid. 

7. Faith is ready and for- 
ward to pvaife God for good fuc- 
ceffe, p,3o^,4CO 



Chap. XL 

THere be many promifcs made 
in Scripture, that God will 
bleffe his,ownc ordinances to 
his peoples good, pag.400 401 
402 

' Thefe promifes are firme grounds 

whereupon the faithful! may 

build this affiance , that'by the 

confcionable ufe of Gods holy 

ordinances, hee fhall bee made 

wife unto falvation, &c. pag. 

> 402 

The ferious meditation of thefe 

things is exceeding profitable 

to quicken and* encourage un- 

' to chearefull and conftant at- 

> tendance upon God in his or- 

dinanceSj p,40 2,40} 

It is necefTary to live by faith in 

the ufe of Gods ordinances. 

For, 

1. It availeth not to live un- 
der the Gofpel, if it bee not recei- 
ved infaith, P4'^3 

2. Itisnotfufficienttohave 
faith, but it muft bee exercifed to 
receive that grace, which the 
Word of God doth reach us with 

^:hefealc, ibid. 



The ads of faith in the ufe of 
Gods ordinances. 

1. It teachcth to worfliip 
the true God purely, pag. 405 

404 

2. It delightcth greatly to 
behold the face of God in his 
Sanduary, p.404,40^ 

3. It feeketh actjuaintance 
withGodj and the knowledge of 
his vyill in Jefus Chrift, P-40y 

4. It gleweth the heart clofe 
to the Word , receiveth and pof- 
fcffeth the good things promifed, 
and changeth the difpoiition of 
foule into the nature of the Word, 

p4o^ 
f. It quickeneth to ferve 
God in the ufe of all his ordinan- 
ces withdiligencejchearcfulnefle, 
and beft endeavour, p. 40^^407 
Parents' (bould in faith prefent 
their children toGodinBap- 
tifmCi P'407 

The ads of faith in this particu- 
lar. " ; ; 

1. It calleth tb 'remem-' 
trance the free and gracious co- 
venant, which God hath made 
with beleeving Parents "and their 
poflerity, p.407,408 

2. By faith the beleeving pa- 
rents muft give themfelves unto 
God,chufing him to be their por- 
tion^ and refigning themfelves in 
all things to bee guided by his 
Word, P408 

J. It provokes Parents to of- 
fer their children unto God by 
hearty and unfaincd prayer, as 
faone as ever they have received 
them from him, ibid. 

4. Icconfidereth whatafin- 
gular prerogative it is, to be adu- 
ally admitted into Covenant 
with God , received into his 
family 



^A Table of the fri»cipall matters 



family j andto have hjs nfime put 
(upon us, P-409 

( Fervent effeftuall prayer doth ac- 
company theft meditations of 
faith, ibid. 

y. It ftiireth up hearty re- 
joycing in .the Lord,_ that hee- 
hath vouchfafed in tender com- 
paflion to looke upon them and 
their pofterity , and thus to ho- 
nour and advance them, pag.409 

410 
• 4, It ftirreth ;Hp patents to 
be diligent and careful! to bring 
up their children in the infor- 
mation and feareof the Lord, p. 
410 
By faith wee ftiould make a 
right ufejof our Baptifme all 
i;hedayesofourlife, pag.4J.o 

•■ ; ■ . •' ' - *" 

The ufe' to bee made of Bapcifme 

■is twofold, 

i.It ferves to be a pledge and 

token of Gods favour : for 

1. It is a feale of our Rege- 
neration by the holy Spirit, pag. 

4if 

2. It confirmeth unto us the 
free pardon and forgivenefle of 
our finnes, ibid. 

3. Baptifme is a pledge of 
the vertue of Chrifts death, 
and of our fellowfliip therein , 

ibid, 

4. It is alfo a pledge of the 
vertue of Chtifts life, and of our 
communion with him therein, 

ibid. 

J. Baptifme; is a pledge of 

our adoption in Jefus Chrift, pag. 

41 i 

6, Baptifme is a folemne 

teftimony of our communion 

with all the lively members of 

Chrift Jefus^ , ibid. 



7. It is a feale and pledge 
to airure,'that God will provide 
for us in this life, raife up our bo- 
dies unto life at the laft day of 
Judaepent, and beftowuponus 
that ekrl:.fting Kingdonie and in- 
heritance,which he hath prepared, 
' ibid.. 
i.It is a feale of our duty pro 
mifed. 

I. It is afpurre to repen- 
tance and mortification, pag. 

,. 414 

». It IS 3 provocation unto 
faith, and a pledge thereof, pag. 
:. 415 
3. It is an incitement unto 
new obedience , and a pledge 
thereof, , - p.4 11^,41(5 

4.. It is a pledge and pawne 
of love and unity, p.416 

The new excrcife of faith is re- 
quired in the worthy receiving 
of the Lords Supper, ibid. 
The afts of faith in receiving the 
Lords Supper. ,., 

1 . By it we difcerne the Sa- 
crament to be the holy Ordinance 
of God, inftituted for ourfpeciall 
good and benefit, fealing unto us 
the promifes , which God of his 
free mercy hachmadeus in Jefus 
Chrift, j^p.4163417 

2. By it wee fee ;what'Lthe 
Lord doth ofter unto us therein, 
how excellent and precious it is , 
with what aflurance it is freely 
tendered, and may be received, p. 

417 

3. It fharpeneth fpirituall 
appetite, and ftirreth up-hungring 
and thirfting after Chrift and 
his benefits, ibid. 

4. It carneftly contendcth 
for mercy, confeffing finne with 
giiefe and hatred, &c. ibid. 

•y.By 



tontAittedinthufecondpurt, 



Chap. XII. 

THe faithfull are fcoimd , and 
it is behoyefull for them to 



f. By faith wee receive 

Chrift offering himfclfe freely to 

be comraded unto us, pag.417 

41.8 

6. By faith wee refigne up 
our (efves unto Jefus Chrift, and believe the thrcatnings, p. 421 
Willingly yeeld foule and body The godly man is not flavifijiy 
unto him. P-4i8 to feare falling away or run- 

7.Faithfeedeth uponChrift, ning into dcftrudionj but wifc- 
and fuckcth vigour from him, ly to believe the threatnings to 



prevent failing incofinne, and 
fo into condemnationj p,422 
I. The threatnings are part 



ibid. 
8. Faith aflureth of that 
fpirituall contraft which hath 

paflcd betwixt Chrilt and the ofche Word of God, " ilid. 

Chriftian fonle, and is fealed in a. Intheftate ofinnocency 

thcSacrament, p.418.419 there was ufe of threatJiings, fo is 

9« It ftirreth up joy and there in the ftate of grace, ibid, 

thankfulnefle, with ferious re- 3. Promifes and threatnings 

membrance of the manifold blef- mingled, fit our ftate, and ferve 

'ifings, which in Chriftjefus arc to keepe the heart in the beft tem- 



vouchfafed. p 419.420 

Meanes to flinc up our felves 

to te:eive the Lords Supper in 

faith. 



per, p 422.4x3 

The a£is of faith in refped of the 
threatnings. 

I. It worketh humblcnefle 



I. Wee rauft bewaile cur of mind and heart, P-423 

unbeliefej dulneile, earthly-min- a. It bringeth forth awful* 

dedneffe^jhe diftemper of our fpi- nefle, reverence and feaie, p. 42 3 

4*4 
^. Itftirreth up continuall 
watchfulnefle to fliun whatfoe- 
;yer might breed danger, or pro- 
cure Gods difpleafure, p-424 
4. The threatnings min- 



rituall tafl-e,&e. p-4 to 

2. Confidef how freely the 
Lord doth tender Chrift to bee 
received in his Word and Sacra- 
ment, ibid, 

3. Weigh and confider the 



blefled flatc and condition of gled with faith, caufe forrowfull 
them, who bee reconciled unto melting or relenting of heart for 
<}od,&e, ibid, finnc committed, p,424.42j 

4. Having troth.plighted f. When wee fee by faith 

our felves to Jefus Crrift unfai- f»'om what miferies wc are deli- 
nedly. Wee muft awaken and vercd, ofthc free grace and mercy 
rowfc up our foules to rejoyce in of God, our hearts are enlarged in 
him, Pj42i praifc and thanksgiving, p.4»y 

This life of'faithis moft excellent 
and comfortable : for, 

I, By faith wee are dir«5ed 

tofeeke and follow after Chrift, 

till we come to be affured that he 

-> a dwcl- 



A Table of the principal matters 



dwjUecli ia us as tae tjjnciine of 
life, ani that iahitn wje are deli- 
vered fcon the guile ani puniHi' 
oieat of all o:ir fianes^ ibid. 

z. By this faith wee may 
coins CO foaad reft ani holy fccti- 
ri:y abaat oac falyation from 
timetocims, P' + 2^ 

3. If God lead us into the 
darke, by this faith w^e aic 
enabled to hold him by the haad, 

ibid. 

4. Hereby the ragcof finne 
is weakened, and we have grace 
towilkc in newnefle oHife, and 
all the parts oi ic with joy aad 



cheacefulneffe, ibid. 

5. By it wee walke in oar 
callings chearefuUy , honcftly , 
piinfully,&o. ibid. 

6. This faith tcachcth us 
to pray at all tim.'sas our necef* 
licies require. ibjd. 

7 . If the afflniioi bee veiy 
grie/oiis a id of lon^ coatinu- 
ance,f.uch doth neither <]uaiIe,aor 
ceafetofeekehclpc, p.4i7 

8. The life of faith ihali 
end in joy and comfort, ibid, 

9* Hee that hath learned to 
live by faith, (hall alfo die in 
faith/ ibid. 





SpeciallTexts of Scripture expom 
dedinthisTreatiJe^ 



^Artf^.i4.3i.par.i.cap.p.pag.i28,12^.&ca.3.pag.ip 

Exod, I p.p.par . 1 .cap.p.pag. 1 2p. 

2 C^r<»«,20.20.ibid. 

P/i/.ip i2.par.i.capr8.pag.ioS, 

^^.I4.32.par.i.cap.p.pag.i2p. 
/(?r.i7.p,par.i.cap.8.pag.ico. 
Ht^.i.4.par.i.cap.2.pag.i». 
-^4f^i5^.5.i7.para.cap.8.pag.i3' 
yl/<«r/i&.p-27.28.par.i»cap.6.pag.75. . ,,^, . 

M4ttb.i6,i 5.par. i.cap.3.pag.28.& cap.5.pag,72. 
.^rf//)&. ip. 1 7.pa. i.cap.S.pag. 1 1 3. 
Manh,t2.i i,par.i,cap.4.pag.5 1. 
^rf/f/&.25.ii.par.i.cap.4.pag.s2. 

Z«/^.7.p.par.2.cap.^.pag.73.74' 
Z«-tii'i3.par.»«cap.2.pag.8. 

/«?i&,i.4P. jo.para .cap.^.pag.?^. 
/<?>&.5.35.par.i cap.3.pag.37. 

7<»i&. 1 2.42;45 .pani .cap.4.pag.49» 

7e/>.20.2i.par«i.cap.8.pag.io8, 

-^i?.8.37.3 8.par.i .cap.6.pag.75 .& cap.S.pag.i oo. 

i^oiw.4.5.par.2.cap*2.pag.222. 

Rom.j^. I ^. 2©.pa.i.cap. 3. pag.2p. 

■ff<'w.4.2i.par,i.cap.<5.pag.7a.73* 

/?<7w. I o.p.par.i .cap.^.pag.7S • 

-R(»w.io.io.par.i.ca.4.pag.5i.«^pat.a.ca.4.pag.»5^. 



32 



I Cor.4,4.par.i«cap.8.pag.i07. 

1 C<'mo.2.par.i.cap.5?.pag.i2^. 

I Cer^i 3.i.par.i.cap.3.pag.i6.&cap.4.pag 47.48. 

I C<?r.i3,i2.par.i.cap.4.pag.42.43. 

1 C<?r.ij.a.5.4par.i.cap.6.pag.7y. 

2 C<7r.io.y.par.i.cap.^.pag 16. 
a^C^M 5.5.par,i.c:ap.8,pag.ioo. 
GdU 5.6.par. i .cap. 4 pag.4 1 . 
•^/»^. 1 . 1 9 .par. I .cap.2jpag. 8. 
•^M.5.ii.par.i.cap.3.pag.30. 

2 77».i.5.par.2.cap.i.pag.ip4. 

7V/.3.5.par.2,cap.2.pag,2i J.^^i^ . T 

i*to«;.verf,5,par.i.cap.p.pag I j&,' 

'^'?^t4.2,par.i.cap.3.pag.37. 

■f^<f^.ii.i.par.i.ca.3.pag,23.29.&.par;5:.ca.3.p,2r4. 

Zrfw.a. I4.par. I .cap 4 pag,5 3,&c. 

■^'iw. 2 . 2 o. 2 2.par . I .c^p. 4.pag.44. 

/'*«».2.2^.par.i.cap.4.pag.43. 

I /<?^.3.8.p.par.i.cap.8.pag.iiy. 

I /(?A.5.i.par.i.cap.4.pag.45. 

I M,5. 1 g.par. i .ca. S.pag, 11^. 





A 



TREATISE 

OF FAITH. 



The firji fart. 



CHAP. I. 
Of the divers acceptations of Faith, 

<^ T is expedient and neceflary that all 
"^ Chriftians fliould acquaint them- 
felves with the do<5trine of Faith, 
becaufethe fafetie of all Chriflian 
Religion doth depend upon the 
right underftanding of this mat* 
ter , and Satan with his fubtleties 
hath ever endevoured to obfcure 
this do6lrine by the mifts of So- 
phiimes, or to weaken it fome other wayes » that he might 
rob God of his glory , and the Church of the certainty of 
her falvation. And if t;be neceflity of a thingknowne and 
acknowlcdge4 fti^re up to enquire into it , and labour 

B after 




§.i. 

The necefsitie 
ofFaith. 



mmA 



Divers aceepatitns of the vford Faith* 



\' 



j Heb.i J.6. 
; Johnj.i^jiR, 

; I Cor.i.21. 

"■ 2 

; i Cor. 5.^,7. 



\ 4 

I Afts 15.9. 
I Rom J. 28. 
Eph.i.13,14, 

§. a. 

Divers accep- 
tations cf the 
word Faith. 

\ 1. 
Mat. 23. 25. 
Rom.j.}. 
Gal. 5.22. 
Titus z.io, 

X 

Rom. 11.3. & 

14.1,22. 

Aas 17.31. 

4 



j after it,this alio may provoke us to fearch and enquire what 
I faith is. 

j Faith is of the number of thofc necCflary things which \ 
\ are ncceflarily required to the obtaining of others j and i 
j not of thoie which are wrought by compulfion, or by any I 
nece{Jary caufe compelling. As if a man would fee,he muft 
open his eyes^and yet he is not by external! violence forced 
thereunto, i . No unbeleever can pleale God : for how 
(hould he who is incredulous and divided from God,plea(e ! 
him who is molt true and faithful! ? Salvation is in the plea- 
fure and power of God , which he difpenceth according to 
his own,not our will. But he accepteth none as righteous 
to life, but them that beleeve. 2. The quality of this pre- 
ient \i^t andour habitation,in which we are abfent from the 
Lord idoth evidence the neceflity of faith : as a fonne that i 
Jives from the preience of his Father muft beleeve his let- ' 
ters and meflengers fent unto him. 3 . The quality of things j 
neceffary to be knownefor the obtaining of falvation is! 
I fuchj, that they cannot be apprehended or received without 
it. As in humane things the quality of Arts and Sciences 
isiiich,that they require underftandingjbecaufethey can- 
not be conceived vvithout it : fb in things divine faith is re- 
quifite, without which we can never comprehend the my- 
iteries of falvation. 4. The gifts which God beftoweth up- 
on his children , the graces which the Holy Ghoft doth 
workc in their hearts, doe neceffarily require faith by the 
ordinance and determination of the Lord* 

^.2. The word Faith in Scripture is taken diverfly. 

1 . It is put for truth, fidelitie or faithfulneflTc , conftancie 
andjuftice in word and a6iion,promife or accompliOimenr, 

2. By faith fometimes trueCbriftian knowledge andpcr- 
fwafion, or the meaftjre thereof is to be underftood , Ipeci- 
ally the found knowledge of Chriftian liberty in Jefiis 
Chrift. 3 . It noteth a fure teftimonie, or firme demonftra- 
tion of a thing to come. 4. It fignifieth the do6trine of the 
Gofpell, and fo Chrift the fubjeS of the Scripture, whkh 
preachcth falvation, to be no othcrwifebut by faith in 

' Chrif^;- 



Sorts df Faith:,&c^ 



Chrift : and this is called by Divines,faitb which h belee- 
ved. 5. It is taken for beleefe of the Golpel, the habit be- 
ing implyed in the afl, the gift in the exercife : which is 
the faith whereby we beJeeve. And this isexprefTed by 
the phrafes of -5^/^f z//'/?^ CjodtBeleevingon (jodiBelee'Ving 
on Chrifi.Beleev'tng the Prophets, 6. Faith is put for un- 
feigned profeffion ot faitbjjoyncd with fervent defire to fur- 
ther ChriftianReIigion,and a godly life- 

§.3. Faith iignifying beleefe is ufed to note, i. an or- 
dinary knowledge and bare affent to the hiftoricall truth 
of Scripture, grounded upon the authority and truth of the 
Speaker, though Ibmetimes holpen by experiments, and 
other inducements and probabilities of the things:and this 
is called faith Hiftoricali, that is, a naked, imperfect, dead 
aflent.without truft or confidence in the mercies of GodjOr 
adherence to the Commandements. Howbeit we muft not 
imagine that faith is reputed un(bund,or not (alvificall, be- 
caufe hiftoricali (rather it is oftentimes unfufficient to favc, 
becaufe it is not lo fully hiftoricali as it might be) but the 
name of hiftoricali faith arofe hence, thatfome arefaid to 
beleeve, who did never embrace Chrift as their onely Savi- 
our with all their hear&s , nor confidently relie upon the 
promifes of mercy : otherwife faith juftifying doth more 
certainly beleeve the truth of the hiftory of theGolpel,and 
(b is more hiftoricali than the faith called hiftoricali. 2.1t is 
taken for an affiance of heart embracing the Word as good ; 
which in refpeft of the d)je6l may be diftinguifliedintoMi- 
raculous or Ordinary. For the objed cf faith is either fbme 
ipecialland fingular promife , and that both for the doing 
of fbme extraordinary cffe<5^,wherein we truft by a miracu- 
lous acl ive faithpand for the obtaining of ibme fpirituall or 
bodily good thing after an extraordinary manner , where- 
on we truft by a miraculous paflive faith, as it is called : or 
elfe faith doth refpeiSt the generall and common promifes, 
which are made in the word of life , and made good to 
them that beleeve, whereon we reft by faith ordinary. 

But faith Miraculous and Ordinary are not divers gra- 

B a cesa 



I 



Sc 



& 



Afts 6.7. 
I?. 8. 
Gal.i.ij. 

Gal,j. 25,24.^ 

% \ 

John 1.4^,47; 

John l.22,2j; 

Luke 14. 2 J. 
Ads 26.27. 

6 
Rom. I 8. 
Gal 6.10. 
Ads 14 ix, 
M;ir,9.i. 

I rbcfl'.i.j. 

§ 3. 

Sorti cf Faith. 
Jam. 2.19.24, 
Afts 16.27. 
Hiftorical I 
Faith. 



, 



Filth Miraciht 

lous. 

I Cor.13.3, 

Mat.2x.21, 

&7.2X. 

Marke^.sj. 
Ads 14.9. 
Luke 17.1^* 



Fatth tempt arte and j^ftifyif^j[* 



Zanch.de re- 
demptlib.'i.e, 
iz,inpr£C.i. 
. Se£f,de Fidi:> 
The/.i,- 



Faith Tempo- 
rary. 

Mac.ij.zQ^ii. 
Luke 8. 13, 14 



Faith. 
Luke i8.l^ 
Mat 13. ij. 
Ads 24.14. 
,Afts 1J.9. 

lAds 27.15, 
■Gal.j.tf. 
lRom.4.3. 
John 1.14. 
•Afts 16.34. 
18 1. 
John 14.1. 



ces, but the fame grace exercifed about divers objects. The 
1 grounds of faith are different, and (bare the effeils and 
! adjuncts that flow from thence : but the grace k felfe one 
I andthelame. As the Fathers beleevedfpeciall revelations! 
I and extraordinary prom iies made to them , by thefame or- I 
dinary faith by which we beJeeve the common promifes' 
of falvation revealed in the Word: fo the fingular pro-: 
mifes of God made to lome BeIeevers,concerning the wor- ; 
king of miracles. Were embraced by the lame faith by 
which they did adhere to the generall promifes of mercy, j 
or were railed up to the doing of afts of Iovq. For that j 
faith which doth receive the more excellent promifes (as! 
are they concerning fpirituall life and falvation ) can much ; 
more lay hold uponother promifes of an inferiour nature, if 
they be made and certified unto us. 

That faith which is carried to the generall promifes , is 
either a confidence vani(hing,uncertaine, not-rooted, cal- 
led faith temporary; or an affiance certainc, well-planted, 
iConftant,knownebythename of juftifying orfaving faith;- 
fo called ftom the principall effcift. For to juftifie is not the 
full effedl: of this confidence or affiance , beyond which the 
1 efficiencie of it doth not extend : but becaufe this is the 
; principall thing wherein the force oftruefaith isoccupied, 
' it is ib called. Juftifying faith be leeveth thehirtory,puri- 
j ficch the heart , fticketh to the Commandements, recci- 
veth the temporal] promiles , vvorketh by love : but it is 
called juftifying from the principal] effect , as thefouleis 
called realbnable from the power it hath to invent, judge, 
and difcourfe, not that thefe are her onely facu ties. In the 
Scriptures of the New Tcftament this faith is unfolded in 
thefe and fuchJike phrales, To heleeve God,To hleevein or 
upvttGody To^heteeveiitorufottJiefksChrtll^ To receive 
& hitn^ To receive the iefiimonie of Godj To heleeve the Go- 
fp^l,To receive the Word of God. 

Toheleeue God fignifies nomorebttt to aflcnt to that 
which the Lord fpeakcth : but htteeving, as it belongs to 
the underftandingjis the root and fbtindation from which 
I confidence 



Not thehabit-i but the aU ofFaih reqmred. 



confidence of the heart doth fprih^ and/flow : and fuchal 
beleefe in the mind is fignified in thi? an^ all other phrafes, 
as is alwrayes necelfarily accompanied' with trufting in 
God, for that which weebeleeve heecaiand wilibringto 
pafle. And the other oftrufting to, or ijtlying upon is im- 
ply ed , whenlbever wee find that a(tfibed to bclccving 
which cannot be obtained without fa/th in Chrift. And if 
weefearch the Scriptures, wee fhail ^Rdthefe phrafes. To 
.R.m.4 3.tvith Rom.4.^.a,oni.to xo,Tr.joh.s.' b.eleeveaGod.and to 

jQ.ji.Aft ip.4. Joh,T la. AcV.15.34. with 31. Mark; DCleeVe lU GOdj tO 
r.t5.Gen,iJ.5.withaom,4.j. ^Exod.i4-3i- and imnOrt OUe and the 

19.9. Luk.54.1j. Joh.2.2j.. c Jofa.i^. j-5, 38. Efa/ "iiP"^^ uuc ana. cue 
28.i«J.withRom.j>.33. ,, iv-'n; ' , r ;:.s.\ . |; . felUe thing. A pfepO- 

The l^ebtew prepofition 3 rervc'fh ofcetitimc* fo. (j^jon ^ IS added tO. 
note theaceufativc cafe, and.is ufed or bmuted- i.-\^^,,^ . -,. l,__ ^ 
without any difference,De«t.7.6,7.i Sam.i4.37.E&. '" -Ppieeve , WnCn HO- 
33.i5.Joba4-2i-13eiit.z8.(56. Pfal.T(56ia,24- Efay thing but aflcUt of 

43 .10. The Seventie tianflace the particle 5 fome- _;_ J - aon\(\ec{ * 
times by «J'Jerem.i2.tf.sC&ron.2o.20.Pfal.7».33. "^'V". *^ llg"/'»cu . 
ordinarily by ^7. Pfal.4.<f. and 24.4,5 . and is .2. : & - It IS pUt WUhOUt 
and }7>5. .Pfel.-s,i8-8j5'- asd 14(5.3. Sometimes they 



oinit'it alt6gether, Exod.t4.51, and i^.^. Pfal.io(J. 
li . Gen.tS-o. and fometimes thf yadde the prepofi- 
tipn S^, where the Hebrew hath no- particle, Efty 
2'8.i5. Inthe New Telhmentj ih and h are often 
piitinterchgngeably one for another. Mark.i ?- & 
^.a. ly^at ii.i. Mar.i.iJ. I-uk.23.42. Rom 5 21. 
iGalr'.to. Phil.3 3. r Tim.; i5. Ephef<:.'24- AV/d 



a ^^prepofition when 
truft or confidence is 
implied.'JMoreover, 
wee read fometimes 
the faith of ChrJfi, 
'&fAi.th whidois by 
Christ : fometimes 
fditkon Chrifii and lortietimes/^/V^ in Chrifi : which ievc- 
rall formes of (peech iiote much'the fame thing,but that (as 
fome learned menobferve) thefirft maybe conceivedj as 
propounding Chrift the fimple ohjedof faith : The iecond 
phrafe, Cbrift the Object, together with our adhering to 
him : The third notetli Chrift the objedb, our inhering in 
him, together with the word propound aid as the way and 
meane,by which we comebeleevingly to inhere in him. 

§. 4. But. evermore when faith is reqliired> it is ifio;:ithe 
facultie, whereby we are apt, andfumifhed tobeleeye, buc 
the act and exercife of that habit, whereby vve execute the 
funilionof beleeving, whichistobeunderftood. For this 
is that which God eommandeth in the Scripturesj; not that 

B ; our 



joh.2.i!.Sr %.tS. 

Job.r.T2,&3.jJ. 

Mark.t.iy. 

Afts ii.i. & 

2. I. 

I Cor.2 14. 



d Rom.;. 2^,2". 

Act 3.i<? 

Gal- 2.1^. 

Pi-ul.3.y. 

iPet.i.2r. 

Afts 24.24. . ■ 

Co!.2.5.. 

Gal.3.2(?. 

EpheCi.r?, 

:8<jj?«inE^her. 



l^t the habit, 
btit the a3 of 
faith is reijuired. 



' ..""'} • 



M^^atjufiifytng Faith if. 



2 Chrott.iOtto. 
; Mark 942-3 . 
Joii.J.iS- 



Rom.T.iiy. 
ijoh.3.33. 

Epher.a.8. 



AftsK^.ji. 
G3I.2.15. 

1043. 



Rom.4.3. 



JJunlb;T4.ii. 
Deut 9.2J. 
PfaI.7S.2i,ai 

Luk.1.45. 
;/oh.ao.29. 
Rom-9.35. 



9 '. 

What juftifying 
Faitfa is; 



ourfoules be ado-nedwith the habit of faith, though that 
be neceflarie, butthac w«e beleeve in him. Beleeve in the 
Lordyour God. lepentyee and beleeve the Gdjpe/. If thou 
canfi beleeve, all^diKgs are fojfibleto him that beleeveth. 
But as many asrecUvedhim, to them hee gave rtght to be- 
come the fons of Gid ; even to them that beleeve on his 
Name^ Tee beleevtin God, beleeve alfo in mee. Heethat 
beleei;ethon him is mt condemned. If thou beleeve ft xeith 
aU thine heart ^thon'mayefi . TheGoJpe/ig thepowerofGod 
unto falvation, to ev^rie one that beleeveth. This is his 
Commandement ^thatwe jhsuld beleeve onthe name of his 
Jon Jefus Chrifi.W* are faved by faith ^\%zl\ one with thaCr 
Beleeve en the Lord Jcfm (^hrifi,andthoufl}alt be faved. 
We are juji:ifiedby faithM allone with thauByhimalithat 
beleeve are jufiif,«d from all things, from rphiehjee could 
not bejuflified by the Law of Moies. fVhofoever beleeveth 
in him pall receive remijfion of fins. Abraham beleeve d 
^od, and it n>ai imputed to him for righteoufneffe. And 
therefore the Ifraelites are reprehended,that they bcleeved 
not in the Lord : J fire was kindled again ft Jacobs and an- 
ger alfo came up again ft Ifrael: Becaufe they beleevednot 
in God, andtrujled not inhis falvation. None but thofs 
belecversarepraifed ; Bleffed is ^e that beleeve d. Becaufe^ 
thou haft feene mee, thou haft be leeved', blejfed are they 
which have notfeene, and yet have beleeved. fVhofoiver 
beleeveth on him,Jhallnot be afhumed. ' 

;•;; j_) -,;■;:/•;, ^ 1/1. / /.*' :'•>■ ■'':•'.)'!■■■ :.'.-'■!)' ^. :'ii'."i , 

OftheAtuharandrfiorkerofFaithjufiifyiHg* 

§. IV Tliftifyiri^ faith, which not onely beleeveth God 
f ipeaking in his Word , but embraceth all divine 
truth as containing the chiefe good of man, as being the 
moft perfed^, doth necefTarily requirebefore it faith nifto- 
ricall> and comprehend all other kinds under it. It may be 

defined, 



1 



God is the Author of Faith* 



defined, a lively and obediential! affiance or confidence, 
whereby wee reft upon Chrift for falvatic)nj receive the 
promiles of grace temporal] and fpiritiiall , ftick to the 
Commandementsas good both fimply andincoriiparilonj 
and feed upon the word with favour and delight. More 
largely, It is a wonderful! and (iipernaturall gift of grace, 
wrought by the Holy Ghoft, through the minifterie of the 
Gofpel,in the heart of man a finner,acknowledgingartd be- 
wailing his offences, whereby hee doth not onelyatTent to 
the whole truth of God, and is certainly perfwadcd that Je- 
fus Chriftis appointed of God to be the Author of faivation 
to them that beleeve in him, and his Saviout if bee doe be- 
Iceve : but doth relye, caft, and repofe his fbtrie upon Chrift 
his Saviour,andby him upon God as a loving Father in him* 
cleaving infeparablyto the Word of truth, as good both 
fimply and in compatilbn, and feeding upon it as the whol- 
fome food of life. 

§. tr. God the Father, in his Sonne Jeltis Chrift our Me- 



God is the Au- 



Ephef 2 8. 
Phil.i.z9. 
ASs 18.27. 
Toh.<5 44. 
Jam. 1. 17. 



diatour by the Holy Ghoft, is the Authour and worker ofl thor of Fauh. 
Faith, As ialvation, ib faith is the gift of God. It is through 
grace that men beleeve. No man can come unto mee, ex- 
cept the Father which hath fentmee, draw him, Everie 
goodthing comes from the Father of lights : but faith is a 
gifi:aftera fpeciall manner, moft free, and profitable, com- 
ming from the grace of the Donor, beftowed upon us when 
wee are everie way unworthy. It is luch a gift as comes 
not from common bountie, fiichas God made fhew of in 
the creation: but from a fpeciall favour, which heebeareth 
his in Chrift Jefus. The Scripture is cleare and evident 
herein,& ftrong reafons may be deduced thence to prove it- 
Forof ourfelvesweehaveno power to beleeve, or to pre- 
pare our felves thereunto. There is no fiichfoile in our 
hearts 3 whence fuch fruit (bouid fpting. The meanes of 
grace, and the operation of the Spirit accompanying it, are 
free and voluntarie. No man can beleeve, unlefTe he be cre- 
ated and formed anew: but regeneration is a free work of 
Gods grace and mercie. 
I B 4 Faith ' 



8 



Faith is imprfeB^ though a rvorke efthe Spirit, 



Heb.i2.a. 



s CGr.4.13. 
Rom.1j.13. . 
UotP ive arejaid 
toTecciv3ihi Holy 
ghofi byfeiti). 
Ephef.i.ij. 



How the Spirit « 
fbtatned by yraysTi 



§.3- 

Faith ii imperfeEl, 
though a V{yr^ of 
ithe Sfirit. 



Faithis the worke of God the Father in Jerus.Cbrift. 
For as the naturall head doth not onely give fenfe and mo- 
tion to all the members now conjoyned j but doth fend 
forth thofebandsi whereby they come to bee coupled vyith 
it: foChrift doth not onely give fpirituallfenfe and motion 
to his members already united unto him by faith, but hee 
is theipring whence this iinew of faith doth flow and iffiie 
unto us. 

. TheSpiritof God is the principall worker of faith: and 
hence we are laid to receive the Spirit of faiths that is, the 
Holy Gboft, in and through this gift of faith, which hec 
worketh and continueth in us.- By faith we receive the Ho- 
ly Ghofl: and faith is the worke of the Holy Ghoft< The 
adHon of the Holy Ghoft creating faith in us, is before 
faith: But the beginning of faith is the receiving of the 
; HolyOhpft ; and faith being begun, the gifts of thefpirit 
are more and moreiricreafed by it. Faith it fejfe is a worke 
of the fpirit; but an *3ugmetitation of the^aces of thefpi- 
rit isobtained by faith; and the more our faith dilatetli it 
felfe, the more plentifully doe the graces of thefpirit flow 
into us. ftom Chrift ; Of -whofe fnlmffe wee receive grace 
for^race^.: Faith doth ob.taine the Holy Ghoft by prayer ;. 
and prayer is an "a6V of grace and of the Spirit, as faith 
isawork of the Spirit. Before wee can lift upour ibules' 
unto God, the Holy Ghoft muft defeend into us,, and 
lift us up: for wee move .not j. but as wee are moved. 
The Holy Ghoft il givenr to the Ele6t before, they 
aske: but a.gre^'er-iHsi^uce pfthe Spirit- is ebtained by; 
:prayer... .;;: :. :; •,' •■;;.-' "^•': ,. ': ■•• - r': ■' 

. §. ,3. Faithis not alike in all, in none perfcfl-, though it 
be;tbe worke ^^the Spirit- 1 for the Spirit worketh faith, 
net .asa nat«rkI'f;agen^i':W;hich putceth forth its; power to 
the uttcrmoftlignd'aiway^^-pi'Gducethrlike efF€<9$, [^11 be 
not hindered : but as a voiuntarieagent, which puttetb not 
forth his power to the "utmoftj worketh according' to his 
j pleafureinwhoiiiifoeerwiyxaQd^s he6 yviHi butnot, in all 
{-alike. " ,0 -jit. : • • - J ' ' 

I • , 'T ' ' The 



Fauh is imperfeB^ though a rvorke of the Spirit' 



The Spirit worketh faith not by morall perfwafion, 
onely inciting to beleeve , and leaving it to our free 
choyce, whether wee will aflent or no: but by his 
powerfull operation , and omnipotent hand put forth 
for fuch a purpofe, hee produceth this gracious effe6^. 
There are no feeds of faith in our nature, out of which 
by meere outward teaching wee may bee brought 
to beleeve: for then (hould faith bee naturall, as all 
other things are , which our nature can attaine to 
with outward helps* There is no fpirituall life in us 
before the infiifion of grace , whereby wee (liould bee 
able to embrace the perfwafion s of the Spirit: for then 
Wee fhould live fpiritually of our felves before wee 
are quickened by grace. If the Spirit of God doe onely 
move and perlvvade to beleeve, then God doth not 
make the beleever to differ from the unbeleever , but 
the good ufe of his owne free will. It is of grace that 
man might beleeve , and fo might hee that continueth 
in infideiitie, for hee received equall aid, and was e- 
qualiy perftvaded and incited by the Spirit. But if the 
queftion bee , why doth the one beleeve arid not the 
other ? it is not the Spirit here that makes the- difference, 
but the good ufeof mans free-will : and fb, that man is ina- 
bled to beleeve, it fhouldbe of grace ; but that he doth be- 
leeve, and' fo differ from other men, this (hould bee from 
himfelfe. =*The fame power that raifed Chrifl: from the dead, 
is faid to raife us up to beleeve. If an hand or eye bee wan- 
ting to a manfrom his birth, can any power reftore them, 
but the Almightie power of God, by which the body 
was at firft framedand fafhioned? By what power then is 
this hand of faith created, whidi reacheth to heaven ? this 
eye which doth fee the things within the vaile , which 
concerne our peace.? ^ This flircher appeareth by the' caufe 
that moveththe Lord to beftow faith upon ibme, which 
is his free, eternall, unchangeable grace and love, whereby 
hee loved them tobe made heires of falvatien, before the 
fQnnda,tioa '©f tb'e ^carth was laid. ' For (o- firrc aa God 

cFfeflna'iv 



Faith u ipotfet' 
fi»'d'i\ork^ ofGcd, 



a Ephefi ip ;o. 

Col, I. IT. 

I Their.r.5. 
Eph 5.7i,?^20. 

1 Pct.i.y. 

2 Per.i.r,2,5. 
2 Tkrr.r.ii. 
2.Tim 1.7. 

2 Cor.i3'.4. 

bjch.if.j-. 
A(ftsi3.4S. 
PhiJ.i.ip. 
Matth.ii.2^. 



o 



How Godproduceth Faith, 



§.4. 

How ^od pro- 
duceth faith. 



|£ Cor.4.^« 
c Tim. 1. 9. 



effectually willetb and intendeth to work, lb far he putceth 
forth his omnipotent power to accomplifh. But God doth 
intend, and effedlually will to draw Tome unto him before 
other Ibme. 

§.4. In producing faith, firft God beftovveth upon man 
the gift of underftanding and Ipirituall wifdome, opening 
and illuminating the eyes of his mind, to know the pro- 
mile in Chrift, and to judge and cfteeme thofc things revea- 
led of God, to be the moft undoubted and infallible truth. 
This underftanding is requifite to faith: for it is itnpoffibJe 
for a man to beleeve that, whereof he hath no knowledge or 
underftanding. Out of queftion, faith is a moft wife gift, or 
grace of Gods holy Spirit, making thofe that bee endued 
therewith wife unto falvation : which wee (hall eafily dif- 
ccrne, if we confider how great thcfiibtiltie of that old Ser- 
pent the Devill is^, as alio the deceitfulnclTe of finnc ; both 
which are defeated by faith. 

This underftanding is the gift of Gods grace ; for as rea- 
fonable underftanding is beyond the compafle of that 
knowledge which thebeafts have by kind : fo is this under- 
ftanding&r beyond the reach of all that wildome left in cor- 
rupted nature. It is a work irreftftible, for it is wrought ac- 
cording to the purpofe of the Lord, and the counfell of God 
cannot be frufl rated. In illumination the mind fuflPereth 
not from any naturall power, which it hath to conceive or 
onderftand fpirituall things, but from that ftate of obedi- 
ence that the mind ftandeth in unto Almighty God, where- 
by it muft nccefTarily fee whatlbevcr he will dnlightcn it to 
behold, and fet before it. There is no naturallpower inan 
eye now blind to receive fight: but if God will enlighten, 
it muft needs fee : So there is no natural] power in the eye 
ofthe mind now become darknefle, to receive the light of 
faving knowledge,whi(;h is everie way a thing both for mat- 
ter and manner fupernaturall unto it: butif hee open the 
eyes of the underftanding,and ftiine into the hcart,it muft 
needs underftand. 

Secondly, God doth infufe or powre the habit of faith 

into 



Fmh U the gift of Gcd^ and aB of Afan . 



II 



into man, whereby hee giveth to will to come unto Chrift, 
and to enjoy him. Tfiefirft worke of God is fignificd in 
Scripture, by ojiening the eyes ofthB nnderJi:aKdi>ig : the fe- 
cond by Gods drawing m : both, at leaft figuratively, by 
the efeniKg of the earey the opening of the heart, the taking 
away the heart of fionCy and givingan heart of fiejh. This 
fecond work is requifite to faith : for as a dead man can doe 
no a6> of life untill a living foule be breathed into him ; nor 
a blind eye fee,unlefle new light be given unto it : no more 
can man J dead in trefpafles and finnes.move himfeife to re- 
ctiw the promifes of grace, untill the free and gracious 
difpofition, or habit of faith be infufed, whereby the will 
is inclined agreeably to the difpofition of it , to come un* 
to God. As man cannot naturally ice orperceive the things 
of God ; no more can hee naturally will or defire them. 
And this is apparent by the hardnefle of mans heart that 
cannot repenctillGod molliHeit,* and by his ftiffe-necked- 
nefle and ftubbornnefle to refift the Holy Spirit fpeaking in 
the minifterie of the Word, untill hee bee renewed and 
changed by ^racc. ivv^orfo,': br? 

This habit offaith is received, not by any nattirall difpo- 
fitionofwillin us to heavenly things, for then man fhould 
live ipiritually of himfeJfe, before the life of grace be put in- 
to him : but the heart, as it ftands in obedience to Gods 
Almightie power, to take what ftamp hee fhall imprint, to 
follow him whither he (hall draw, and to containe what hee 
powreth into it, admitteth this habit. 

And as the beginning* fotheincreafeandprogrefle, the 
confummation and perfedHon offaith is the gift of God, 
the work of the Spirit. Of God theincreafe offaith is to be 
asked, and from him it is received. As wee cannot will to 
beleevc, unlefle God prepare the heart and give that will ; 
no more can wee will to perfevere in faith, or eoe forward 
therein, unlefle Goddoeminifterftrengtb, and fuflaineus 
by his grace. 

§. 5. Faith then is the gift of God, and the a6^ of man: 
a wonderfull and fupernaturali gift of God, and a lively 

motion 



Lirk.24.45, 
Joli.<S'.44. 
Efay 5c. y. 
Aasi6.ij. 
Ezrk.II.iP' 



I Cor.4.14. 

Ifay 65.2^3. 
Rom.j.5. 



The increafe of 
faith is of God. 
Heb ra.a. 
Luk.17.5. 
Mark p.a4. 
Ph'I.i.tf. 
tThcff.i.jjit. 



Faith is the gift 
ofGodjandtlic 
a^ of Man- 



12 



Fatth wrought by the word. 



Hab.2.4. 



Fa.kh mra-Aght hy 
the Ward, 



,!U 



motion of the heart renewed by grace, and powerfully, 
moved by the Spirit. The power to beleeve, and will to nie 
that power, is of God : But the aft of the will in refting up- 
on Chrift is mans.It is man that beleevetb,but it is 3od on- 
ly and altogether that inableth,ftirreth up, putteth forward, 
and endineth the heart tobeleeve. By Gods enlightening 
.manfeeth,bybistcachingheunderftands : and theLordin- 
clining his will, hee willeth, embraceth, pofleffeth and kee- 
peth Chrift with all blelfmgs promifed in him. So that 
faith is the motion of mans heart wrought in him by the 
Spirit of God. Even as a wheele, which of it (t\h can- 
not move, yet being moved of another, doth move; 
whole motion though but one, isfaidtobethe motion of 
the mover, and of the thing moved ; fo faith is nothing but 
the a6>ion of God in man, but cpnfidered in a diverfe man- 
ner it is both the aft: of God and man : as wrought by God 
in man, it is the work of the Lord ; as the motion of man, 
his heart being moved of God, it is the aft of man. For the 
aftionof manin beleeving with the heart, is nothing but 
his knowing and acknowledging of things, by Gods ma- 
king him.know and acknowledge them ; his apprehending, 
willingjchufing, embracing, and retaining them, by Gods 
makinghim to apprehend, will, chufe,. embrace and retaine 
them. v-:o;-,i ■'..■.■ ■ :'. ■■ <-:_^.^:i ^ii '•: ' -u'Af^' 

It istrue, thatwee beleeve,becaufe weewillBelceve: 
hVityVfie will beleeve, doth note not the principall caufe, but 
a caufe fubordinate ^ working by way of free difpofitioh, 
which dilpofition it receiveth from an higher caufe, not 
fromnaturallftrength. ThejuB is^id to live by his owne 
faith y and faith is c^Wt^ ours, or our i^wne , not that we are 
the Authours,caufe,or workers of it, but becaufe weepol^ 
k^tit-, and are the fpeciallfubjefts in which it is wrought 
by God ; and alio becaufe it concernes our felves in particu- 
lar, and what webeleeve we beleeveit particularly concer- 
ning our felves. 

§.5. Not to difpute whether God doth extraordinari- 
ly worke faith in the hearts of men, without the exter- 
nal! 



frhy all beleeve not that heare the Word» 



nail pnblifliing of his word, willjorpleafure: this is furc, 
that ordinarily the Moly Ghoft dochworkc by the Mini- 
ftery of the Word. The Word can doe nothing without 
Gods Spirit : and ordinarily the Spirit will doe nothing 
without the Word. Faith is cilicdthc fruit of the Zips.- 
the Word is both the meane whereby wc beiecve , and the 
fubje6t matter of our belt efe.A man may fee without Jight 
or colour, heare without eare or found j aspolhblyas be- 
leeve without the Word of God. For when faith is an 
afJiarce or perfvafion, touching the good will of God 
towards us in Jefus Chrift , how can we be perfwaded tou- 
ching bis gracious pleafnre, till we be acquainted with his 
word, whereby he hath declared it ? How can I beleeve or 
certainly know that a friend will doe me this or that good 
turne, unleCfe I have his word or promiie to that efFe6^ ? 
No more could we ever know or be perfwaded that God 
would forgive our finnes , or (hew mercy upon us, fhould 
he not byhis Wordfignifie and make knowne the fame. 
The Word is the Word of faith, propounding things to be 
beleeved, and commanding us to beleeve. The Gofpel is 
the rpordofthe kjngdome ^t he power ofGodtofalvatiotjythe 
arme of God, 

Faith is the mother of Prayer : Prayer a meanes of the 
increaie and confervation of Faith.The Sacraments do con- 
firme,conierve,and encreafe faith begun : but the Word on- 
ly is the inftrument to beget faith. Two things are here to 
be looked unto : Firft,that we fever not wnat God hath 
joyned together. Secondly, that we attribute not to the in- 
ftrumentwhat is proper to the Authonr. For the Word 
by the Ordinance of Cod is appointed to reprefent toour 
minds what it is ordained to fignifie , and by if as an in- 
ftfdment it pleafethGodro worker bat the wholeforce, 
cflficacie,and pbwer doth flow from God,and he that created 
man at the fir(t,is his reftorer to life cternall. 
■ If it be demanded, why doc not ail beleeve that heafe 
the Word > The anftvec is, Mamsjwilfulncflejsthefundav 
mcntall,radicall, prime caufe of obftinate unbelcefe j and 

he 



13 



Efay 57. i^. 



Rom. 19.8. 
John 12.. J 6. 
Mirke 115, 
Rom, 1. 16. 
Efay.Jj.i. 
Increased, by 
Prayer and the 
ujeofthe Sa- 
eraments. 



Marke 1^.10. 
1 CGr.i2.6. 

IVhy all do not 
beleeve ibit 
hear the f^ord. 



14 



Though faith 
be the gift of 
God, men mvfl 
jfethe medves 
to oitaine it. 



Faith is Gods gift, hut we muji ufe the means for it* 

he beleeveth not becauie be will not bcleeve ; which di- 
fpofition the will hath of it i'elfe by nature. But the reafon 
why one beleeveth and not another , is , becanfe the Holy 
Ghottdoth not inwardly teach all men, but whom hec 
will, and joyne his cfficacie to the Word preached and 
heard in whom he will. Thecauleof this his will wee are 
not bound to render, we cannot render, but muft refl: in the 
good pleafure of God. 

And though no man doebeleeveby the externa II hearing 
of the Word , unlefle the inward operation of the Holy 
Ghoft regenerating and giving faith doe accompany it, yet 
murt all men give attendance to the hearing of the Word 
preached, and diligent reading , becaufe it is the meanes 
that God hath ordained for the begetting of faith , and by 
precept divine they are thereunto obliged. Neither (Kail 
it excufe any man to fay 9 he could not beleeve ,- and if he 
fliouldmaketriall, hisendevourwouldbein vaine. Such 
frivolous pretences fhall nothing availe before God. The 
kfle able we are to beleeve of our felves, the more carcfull 
(houldwebe to ufe the meanes that God hath ordained, 
chat we might obtaine it. Marriage was never held fuperflu- 
ous or unneceflary for the propagation of mankind, becaufe 
the reafonable fbule is not generated by our Parents, but 
immediately created and infiifed of God.That faith is the 
fole gift of God, wholly infilled, not partly acquired by us, 
fhould rather incite than any way abate our endevours 
for attaining it. For faith is not given but in the ufe of the 
meanes : and though he give not faith unto all men, he vio- 
lently with-holds faith from no man that feeketh it, but 
denieth it juftly to them that willingly prefer the pleafures 
of fin before the pearle of the Gofpcl. And as Chrift in- 
fiifed not humane life into trees , ftockes, and ftones , but 
into bodies pafTively organized and figured for the fit ha- 
bitation of the humane ibulc : fo neither doth he ordina- 
rily beftow fupernaturall grace on everyone that hath a 
re afonable ibulc , but on luch onely as are by him paflivcly 
prepared for it. 

The 



Faith prefitpfofeth kmivledge* 



j Theconclufionis, thatvvemuft waited^Iyatthc poftj 
of wifedomcsgate, meditate ferioufly upon the word of 
! life, and nourifh the motions of Gods Spirit, as the means 
i whereby faith is begun and encreafed in us. 



CHAP. Ill* - 
Of J^fiffji^S Faithywhat it is, and what things 
an imflied therein* 

4.1. TUftifying faith prefuppofeth the knowledge of 
I God and Chrift, of the precepts of the Word, and 
promifcs of the Gofpel. Knowledge is an antecedent} i£ 
not a part of faith. Knowledge, I fay, not of thereafon 
and nature of the things* but of revelation which reftsin 
the meaning of the tefiimony diftin(£Hy underftood.^ The 
things which God commandeth us to beleeve exceed all 
naturall capacity , cannot bee knowne in their eflence and 
properties, as things naturall are by the light of rcafbn ; 
But every beleever muft know it to bee the Word of God 
which he receiveth , and what is fignified thereby ,and the 
things to bee as they are revealed , though he cannot com- 
prehend the reafon or caufes ofthem. Knowledge is put 
for faith, as that which ever accompanieth it. WnenGod 
enricheth men with faith, hceisfaid to opentheir ejes.to 
reveale unto them th^e-myfi^xy of hi4'wilU and they are faid 
to he taught and inftrHEted ofhim. Out of queft ion/aith is 
a moft wile g^ace, making them that bee endued therewith 
wile unto (alvation , and that evident to the beleever 
which of it lelfe is incomprehenlible. In laith hiftoricaJI 
there muft bee knowledge of thehiftory and truth of the 
j Gofpel , much more in faith jiiftifying. There is fuchre- 
jlacion betwixt Faith and the Word, that without the 
i Word there can be noFaithj as the foundation being taken 
j away , that which (hould bee built upon it cannot ftand. 
V The order whereby men are brought to the faith, is^this ; 
firil they hearcjand then they beleeve. Faith is an alTent to 
I the 



15 



§. I. 

Faith prefup- 
pofeth finow-^ 
led^e. 



Job 19. If. 
John 17.5, 
a Tim, 1. 1 2. 
t Tim.z.7. 
Ads 26.18. 
Mat. 1 1. 1^,26, 
Eph.i.8,9. 
John 6.45, 
I Jphn^.ifi. 



Rom. 10.8, 
John xo.jr. 
Kom.10,17. 
Efay 5f.^. 
1 Tim.4,^, 
CoIj. 6.8c i.z, 
Eph.i.iz,i3. 
Ads 4.4. 



t6 



Popijh obielfi- 
ons prevented. 
2 Cor.io J. 
BdlJeyt[tif. 
lib.ix.T* 



Ron1.lo.r4, 17. 

2 Cor.4.14. 
I Cor.13.2. 
Bell uhi/upra. 



T &fi^ Ob jeBionsfY evented* , 

the truth and promifes of God. But no aflent can be given 
to a thing utterly unknowne. What is more abfiird than to 
dreame of a blind aflent to we know not what , to a thing 
we never heard of ? 

Howibever faith apprehends myfteries not to be inqui- 
red into , yet the propofition and doctrine of all the Ar- 
ticles of faith muft be diftin.5lly conceived » that a man be 
able to underftand what they are. If a man cannot give a 
reafon of the thing beleeved, he muft be able to give a rea- 
Ibn of hisbeleefe. Faith captivates our underftanding un- 
to the obedience of Chrift , but is not ignorant of Chrift, 
or of his do6>rine. It giveth credit and fubmitteth to the 
truth acknowledged , though it feeme abfurd to carnal! 
reaibn,but it cherifheth not ignorance of divine myfteries 
exceeding all humane capacitie. It fubje6teth reafon to the 
doi^rineof God and his revelation , but it neither extin- 
guiftieth the nature of man, nor the light of realbn. Faith 
is not a brutiOi captivitie, which yeelds up her eyes to be 
put out : but the underftanding receiving a more excellent 
fight by faith , yeelds up the worfe , arid dothjiot lofe her 
light , but exchange it for the better. There is a double 
affent ; one from reafonsthe other fom authority: both are 
made with the knowledge of the Minde. Knowledge is 
included in both ; in the one of the caufe and properties, 
which is ftri6tly called Science ; in the other of the autho- 
rity and truth of the reveal er, and in that refpe6l of the 
thing taught, which is called Faith. How (hall we beleeve in 
him efwhom we have not heard? There is no fight without 
ibmevifible objedl, no faith without the knowledge of 
God in Chrift. 

Though knowledge be not faith, but an habit diftin(ft 
from it, yet it concurres to the being of faith , in as much 
as no man can aflent to that he never heard of.Wifedome is 
diftinguifhcdfrom knowledge as a thing more excellent, 
whichyetitprefuppofethtfo faith is diftinguifhed from 
knowledge ? but cannot be without iu Tbc knowledge 
which hath no ingredience into ^ith j is the knowledge 

of 



Faith is grounded m found knotvledg 



e. 



m 



of that which is not revealed : for faith not onely goech be- 
fore fuch knowledge, but utterly repels it, never admitting 
any curious fearch into Gods fecrets. But in things revea- 
led faith knoweth what it beleeveth , and by beleeving 
knoweth the more. Faith is the caufc-of more ample know^ 
ledge: but fome knowledge of Gods will and pleafure is 
antecedent to faith. 

And this knowledge muftbe diftinf^, found, and cer- 
taine. For faith divine is fure and certaine : therefore the 
knowledge whereupon it is grounded muft be fuch as 
cannot deceive. The afl'ent which faith gives lo the Word 
of God is abfolute and unlimited , which can never bee 
yeeidedjunleflc being certaine in it felfc, wee know it cer- 
taincly as it is, and be aflfured that we conceive of it aright, 
a The examination of Doftrincs by the touchftone is com- 
manded of God, ^ and wonderfully commended by the 
HoIyGhoft : <^the negledl of examining what wee heare, 
dotn bring great perill and danger; for fuch as receive do- 
ctrines upon the credit of their Teachers are ever unfetlcd, 
apt to be (educed, and ready to ftart back in time of trou- 
ble. <^ Certaine knowledge is to be begged of God, both 
for our felves and others : and « thanks have beene and 
(houldbegivcn to God f6r this grace and mercie voucbla- 
fed unto the Saints. 

The Papifts have tiiuch extolled the Colliars faith, com- 
mended ignorance, and dilgraced knowledge, as if faith 
were mucS better defined by ignorance, than by know- 
ledge : but when they arepreffed with evidence of Scrip- 
ture in this point, they grant that knowledge in all funda- 
mental! points of Religion is neceflary for lay people : and 
would colour the matter, as ifthcy meant the knowledge 
ofreafonwasnotnecefrarie tofaith, but of revelation one- 
ly. Not todifputeof their meaningin thole proportions, 
(though their words and pra6lice, and matter imreated of, 
fuflficiently arguethe vanitieof thatexcufe) wee may take 
t-hem as they fay, and fpare labour to prove that faith can- 
not be a blind afleut , bccaufe wee have their confeflRon 

C for 



tnnH l/e dfiinSt, 
fvmd, ctrttiiiie. 



20,SI. 

Col. 3.16. 
iJoh.4.i. 
b AQ% i7.it,l2. 
c I Reg. r J -20, 

d Pfal.1r9.18, 

54,73>I44' 
C0I.1.9. &2.2. 
eEpficT 1.16,17. 
2 Cor. 8.7. 
Hefiu contra 
'Brent, lib.l. 
'SelUr. dejnfUf. 
l.Ut.f.% fnii- 



cerd.i.4, fJ*.*« 
T.fT.P.inhii 
triple accufation 
of D.Jrkite, 



i8 



Rora.1.17. & 

:l5. 
I Cor.to.i^. 

: a Com 3 5. 

' 1 Pet. 3.1 '. 
. Korn.12 iji. 
f /« wfcd? refpeSft 
'\ filth it implicit e, 
Joh.ao?. 

■'Luk.a+.i5' 

'14. 8f ii-a* 

.Joh.4-3M^* 

'Heb.ii-Ji. 



Faith ii ^it^f' 



for iu that faith requireth knowledge of revelation. 

The irnplicite faith then of them that know nothing in 
Religion, butbeleeve as the Church beleeveth, notunder- 
ftandingwhat fhee beleeveth or profefleth, is moftabfard: 
but when wee know Chrifttrnly, and whatfoever is abfb- 
lucely neceffarie to i'alvation, there bee many things wrap- 
ped up from us, which wee ought to beleeve, in which re- 
rpe<5i: faith may be called implicite, or infolded. For being 
compafled about with mills of ignorance, wee attaine not 
the underftanding ofmany things revealed: of which wee 
may note verie many examples in the Difciplesof Chrift, 
having not yet obtained full illumination : and in them, 
' who being onely ftirred up by the miracles of Cnrift, went 
no further than to acknowledge him to bee thepromifed 
A^eJfiM. So that when a man know? s and underftandsin 
generall thefubftantiall articles belonging to faith, which 
arc contained in the Scriptures, and is ignoranl: only in the 
particulars whereby the faid generall articles are demon- 
ftrated ; and when withall hec ufes the meanes to increafe 
in knowledge, by fearching the Scriptures, and hearing the 
Word pleached : in this cafe his faith may be true, though 
infolded in many particulars. 

{ Faith alfo may be implicitein another relpefl : for ma- 
ny that truly beleeve, cannot certainly affirme they doe be- 
leeve: which befallech them that are touched in confci- 
ence for finnc, who bewaile their offences, and'defire to bee 
reconciled unto God. Now as in the little tender bud are 
infolded thelcafe, the bloflbme, and the fruit: foin true 
forrow, brokcn-heartednefle and unfaifsed acknowledge- 
ment, faith and many graces of Gods Spirit are infolded. 
But this is not properly underftood when we ipeake of im- 
plicite faithj neither is faith fo much wrapped up in thefe 
graces, as the fight of faith and fenfc ol comfort hid from 
their eyes that be didrefled. 

§. 2. Faith prefuppoleth knowledge, and yeelds alTent 
totiie word of grace, relying upon the authoritie of God, 
whois true in alibis rayings,fincere, faithful), conttantin 

all 



Fatth is An ^A^'ent, 



ail his promifeSi, & can neither deceive nor be deceived. A- 
yraham bcleeved God ; the word imports, hee thought the 
words of God to be rure,certainejftablc,and conftant. Mo- 
fes {ayingj Ifrael will not heleeve me, meaneth . they would 
not affent or give credit to his words. And when it is faidj 
Ijraelbelee've4the Lord and hisfervant Afofes,therchy is 
under flood, that they gave credit to the word of the Lord 
(pokenby his lervant Mofes. This is cleare in the exhorta- 
tion of Jehofhafhat unto the people, faying, 5^/^^t/^ in the 
Lord your God,fojhdllyou he efiablijhed ; heleeve his Pro- 
fhetSifo [hall yee prosper. And that ofDavidy I heleeved^ 
therefore have I jpoken. 

Beleefc is alwayes grounded upon the authoritie- and re- 
putation of him for whofe word lake wee belceve, and muft 
needs have reference to feme uttered word or revelation, 
astheobjefl: but it may be fiiftained and ftrengthened by 
other motives and inducements, experiments and proba- 
bilitie5« ManyobjCvas of faith may alfo bee evident^ and 
that which is beleeved rnay allbbefcene : Thomas^hecaufe 
thou haJtfeeyiemetthoH haft heleeve d. There is a compof. 
fibilitic of. faith and evidence in divcrfc reipe<5ts, whereby 
they may both ftand together in the fame man, about the 
fame obje61:, albeit faith reft not upon that evidence, biit 
upon divine revelation. Faith and Science, are habits that 
may ftand together. Faith by authoritie revealed. Know- 
ledge or Science by evident demonftration. For albeit faith 
exceed the dimenfion of realbn^ yet reafon is fubordinate to 
it,asfenfeistounderfl:anding: and therefore as it is no in- 
convenience to fay, wee underftand the thing wee lee ; no 
more is it to lay, weebeleeve that which i% evident in di- 
vcrie refpe6ts. Many divine things touching God, which 
are received by faith, may a lib be found out by naturall rea- 
fon. And if things, credible by themanifeft likelyhoodof 
truth which they have in themfelvcs, bee made more incre- 
dible by the knowne condition and qualitie of the utterer, 
faith relying upon the authoritieof the revealer, may bee 
ftrengthened by the probabilitie of the thing, 

C 2 Faith 



Gen, 15 g. 

Deutr.ji. 

Exod-4.3r. & 
14.31. 



Chron.2020. 



Pfal.ii^.io. 



JoImo 4^ 



20 



Faiihis'an^ffe^t, 



i^Firnte. 

Phil.i.5. 
2 Timi.14' 



Rom.8.38. 



Heb.ri.T. 



Tet femitimes dc 
e§7npMud<»itb 



Matth.i4°3i' 



Mark.ii-25° 

Luke ii.i^i 
Jam.i.^. 

M»rfc. 9.2,4. 



Rom.4'i<^* 



Ronn.4.i9jao. 



Faith is a firme aflfencas appearech by tfaeoriginall of the 
word>6c the arguments wherwith it is joyned. [amferfiva- 
dedefthe fame thirtg, that he which hath begun this good 
vorke in yoHjwill^er forme it Hntillth^daj ofjefiu Chrifi. 
Continue thou in the things which thoH haft learned, and 
art ajfured of. For thereby tree k?ow that rcee are of the 
truth^andfhall before him ajfure our hearts, lam ferfvca- 
dedythat neither life, nor death ^nor Angels^ nor frincifali- 
ties, &c. where the grounds of this perfwafion (hew it to be 
firn:;€ & infallible. And it is further manifefted by the defi- 
nition of faith given by the Apoftlcjcallingit, The evidence 
of things notfeene: becaufc it doth rcprefent thofe things 
to the mind by a certaine affent, and to the heart by certain 
confidence, which cannot be comprehended by realbn. 

But though faith in it felfc be a firme aflent, yet by rea- 

fon of our infirmity it is fometimes accompanied with doub- 

tings. The things,beleeved of all,are one and the lame : but 

the habit,quality,or inward ftrength^by which they bclcevcj 

is not of like force in all . In it owne nature faith is oppofite 

to doubting and wavering ; O than of tittle faithiwherefore 

didfi thofi doubt f If ye havefaith,& doubt not. fVhofoever 

fhallfay Unto this mount a,ine-> Take thy f elf e away ■> andcaft 

thy feife into the feat, and (hall not vtavtr iH his heart, bftt 

^alibeleeve that thole things h&e faith, fhatt come topajfe. 

Therefore atke notrphatyejhalleat,or what ye jhall drin^e: 

neither let doubtfullthof4(rhts a'cendin your hearts. Aske 

in faith, and waver not. B?5r thpoegh our weaknefleit is 

often mh.cd with doubtings : Lord I heleeve, helf mine 

unbeleefe. Abraham is commended for his fakh, and pro* 

pounded by the Holy Ghoft as a patterne to all his pofte- 

ririe : yet was hee not free from infirmities, as the fk)ric 

Aewechin diverfe particulars. The Apciftle writeth thus 

c£ihtfaitii of Abraham ' p/tnd b^iirg not weake in faith,-. 

he confderednothis owne body now dead->when he was about 

an hundred yeeres old, neither yet the deadneffe of Sarahs 

womb. Hee fiaggered not at the promife of God through 

unheleefe: but was fir ong in faith y giving glorie to. Cjod. 

He 



Faith u an ^Jjent, 



Hee doubted not through infideliticj but of fnfirmitie hee 
doubted, when hee tcoke Hagar j and requefted Sarah to 
fay, (hee was hisfiftcr. Much is fpoken in Scripture of the 
hithoiDavid : but he was (baken many times, as he con- 
fclfeth of bimfelfe ; Ifaid m mine hafid lam cut affionu 
before thine eyes. Verily J have cleanfedmy heart in vaine, 
attdwafhed mine hands in innocencie. I {aid in my hafit, 
AU men are Hers. And though it beoutof queftion, irat 
we are to endcvbur for the perfection, as of all other graces 
of Gods Spirit, fo of that feith whereby wee give aflent to 
what God hath revealed: yetbyteafonofour weakneflc 
ircomestopafle, that doublings doc many cimcf arife in 
our hearts. 

The ^ifent that faith gives to the word of Godis ab- 
fblotc and unlimited; v/«.. to the whole truth, promilcs, 
ihreatmngs, commandements. It will not take and leave 
at pleaforc, but if it apprehend in one thing what the 
Lord fiitb, it will receive bis teftimony, if it can appre- 
henditlcobe;cf God, in <yerie thing, and thatfimply be» 
caufe it h the word of God, though it exceed humane ca- 
ipicitic iand likelyhood. So worjhip Ithe CJodofmy Fa- 
thtrsiiftleeving ail things that are vfrittin in the Law and 
the Pi^of hits. 

It is ti (inne for a man not tol)eleevc whatfbevcr God 
hathitjade knowne in his Word, and in that rei[)e6Ht is 
damnable not tobeleevc, or to mif-beleeve any thing : But 
throttgh-ignorance and infirmitie aChriRianmay mifbe- 
leeve many things without the danger of damnation. 
Faithh fliouldfece entire in all things, muftbee entire in i\\ 
fijnd&mcntill points; withont the knowledge and faith of 
wbichj iftidno^agc and difcrerion cannot bee faved: but 
all errotir iftd" i^if-beleefe doth not deftroy the truth of 
ftithi n6 tndfe than cverie imperfcj^ion doth the truth of 
righte^urncflcTw A man may mii^underftand diverfe places 
of Scnpcnrev and thereupon hold that to beetrue which is 
falfe, ^ttd'yct bee faved for all this errour. The Apof^les 
thctelekei,'foi?*Jo5g cimei even tiUaftcr the Afccnfion of 
■ • " ^''"■'•,' . C 5 our 



21 



Gen- 16 1 J,4. 



and 116 lu 



2» Ay f elm 9, 



hSi% z\i.\t 



Aa*i.^.&».2,i. 



22 



Faithuanj^jjent* 



prai.72.17. 

Dan-2./!4. 



Ails II.2,: 



our Saviour into Heaven, and till the comming of the HoJy 
Ghoftuf>on them, looked for the eliablifhment of an earth- 
ly Kingdofne in this world By their Lord and Mafter. Did 
they not flip into this errour, by mifTbeleeving the prophe- 
cies of the OIdTeftamenr,concerning the LMeJfiahs King- 
dome? yet were they out of danger of damnation, and in 
the ftate of grace.all that timcbecaufe they refted on Ghrift, 
as the Ipirituall Saviour of their foiiles, that fliould takea- 
way their finnes, and bring them to everkfting li^o, in 
Heaven, though they crroneoufly hoped for a temporal! 
kingdome alfo. And after they had received the gifts of the 
Holy Ghoft, for a time they were ignorant of the conver- 
fionof the Gentiles, Hee that beleeveththe truth in one 
thing, becaufe God hath revealed it, mW. beleeve evcrie 
thing that hennderftandeth to be revealed of God :, But he 
that holdeth the foundation of faith firme, and ftable, may 
diffent in fome things from that vvhichis generally holden, 
without perill of damnation jibecaufe hee difce^aetfa it not 
tobeof God. ' • 

Faith is an evident aflent : perfpicuitieof truth in the 
objeil: apprehended, and certaintieof perfvva{ion,are two 
twins that live and dye together. In this \i(Q it is impoi- 
fible for us fully to comprehend any one point of Cbriftian ■ 
faith i yet are they plaine and perlpicuous in a fort to the 
fpirituall, not to the naturall man. There is a manifefta- 
tion of things by reafon, and by revelation : and there is an 
evidence dire6i', and an evidence by confequence: an tyi- 
eenceof the thing in it ielfe, and by the effect : an evi- 
dence to the naturall man- and an evidence to thelpiritualJ 
man. Matters of faith are manifeit by revelation, but to 
reafon unfearchable, incomprehenfible : feene byfaith, to 
the naturall maninvifible, incredible. The Divinitieof the 
Scripture is in it felfe evident to the fpirituall man, foisit, 
that there is a Providence* other things are evident ftom 
this ground ; That all truth contained in Scripture is to bee 
imbraced, though with oppofition to all other profefti- 
ons ; and that the profelsion of Religion: is not j:p l)!ee re- 

linquiflied. 



"i. Evident. 



Faith is an ^ffent. 



23 



linqoifhed, nor good fuccefle to be deljjaired of, for all the 
arguments the Devrllr the World, and theFlefh caa op» 
poie agamtt them. 

The apprehenfion of the joyes of Heaven cannot bee di- 
ftin£l and evident in this life : but that God hath provided 
fuch joyes for his Eledi, as it is certaine from tcflimonyof 
Scripture, fo it is evident from tiie prefent peace of con(ci- 
ence, which the faithfnll enjoy. Beloved (faith the Apoftle) 
»ow we are the [ons ofCjody and yet it doth not appeare what 
we /halite : but we know that when he fr^all appeare ywefhali 
he Ukehitn : for we (hall fee him Of he is. The joyes which 
be prepared for the godly , and of which the Apoftle ftedfaft- 
ly hoped to be partaker, areasyecunfeene : but that they 
(halladlually be accompliOiedi is confirmed by the faithfull 
promife of God^ whereof wee have evident and follaffu- 
rance. The Apoftle defcribing faith to be f^^ evidence of 
things not feene, doth it not to dilparage the evidence, but 
rather to fet forth the cxcellencie of that heavenly grace, 
which includes an evident knowledge arid apprehenfion of 
jfome things prcfent, which the world fees not . 

Faith alfo is in fome fort an aflerit diicurfive, as from ma- 
nifeftrexperiences of Gods works and favours wrought and 
vouchfafed according to the word of promife, the Saints in- 
ferre a poffibilitie, or certaintie of like to cnfue. Thus Da- 
vid, The Lord that delivered me oHt of the paw of the Li- 
on, and out of the paw of the Beare, he will deliver jne out 
of the hand of this Philifiine. Nothing is more ordinarie 
in the Book of the Pfalmes, than for the fervants of God to 
draw conclufions of future prote6lion, deliverance,help,and 
comfort from prefent or former blefsings. / call to remem- 
brance my fong in the night ', I commune with mineowne 
heart, and my f^ irit made diligent fearch . We received the 
fentence of death in our [elves, becanfe wefhouldnot trnfl in 
oHrfelves,but in God who rat fed the dead. Who delivered ui 
from fo great a deaths & doth deliver m ; in whom we trufl, 
that yet hereafter he will deliver m. I fervently looh^for & 
hope, that in nothing I [hall be afhamed- but that with all 

C 4 confidence 



Ij0[..3.2. 



Heb.ix.i." 



4. Dijcur- 

ftve. 



I sam.17.37. 



prai.3,5. 
prai.77.tf. & 



, CoM.JrjIO. 



24 



Faith is an affiance or confidence, 



aTim.4-x7,x8. 



§.3. 

iaith is an affi- 
anceor eanfidence. 



a Chren.30.ao. 
Geneva*. 
'Pfal.a7.1j. 



Pfil.78.37. 

Pfal.78.2a. 

a 1 Chro.V.io. 

Pfal.7853.and 

X4'..3. 

Prov.i'.tTaf. 

Pfal.-i.S.&iap. 

ffay 72. 2. 
PAI.112.7. 

>»fal.i25.i. 
Prov.3.5. 
b Pfal.2i2. 

I'PUlI.Io 

;Pfa].36.7. 



coftfide/ice, at alw^iesyfo nowtChrifipaU he magnified in my 
hodjii whether it be hy life or death, I was delivered out 
of the month of the LioK •• jind the Lord will deliver mee \ 
from everie evill workey atfdwill preferve me ueto his hea- 
venly lOngdome . 

§. 5 . Moreover, Juftifying faith is an djedienEJall con- 
fidence, or affiance conjoyned with affedHon ofpietie,fim- 
ply and in comparifon cleaving to the mercie of God in Je- 
fusChriftas better than life, and to die Commandemcnts 
of God, as neceflarie, good, worthy to be ftuck unto, not 
onely whileft confidered in themfelves, pringenerall, or 
without fuch incumbrances and occurrences, as doe often i 
interpofe , or hinder pra6lice ; but even whileft a<5^ually 
compared with prefent lofle of any fenfuali good thing, or 
infli6lionpf any tecpporallcvUl* wherewith the World, the 
Devill, or the Flefhscanoppofe their price. 

That faith is an affiance, or reftingupon the promifes,ap- 
peareth by the feverall words ufed to exprelTe the nature of 
that faith or beleefe, which the Lord requireth of his peo- 
ple, to the end they might receive any bleffing from him, or 1 
have hisprotef^ion or afliftance. The firft word is tranfla- 
ttdBeleevey but fignifieth fiich a beleefeasis oppofed to 
fainting: I had faint ed, unlejfe I hadbeleevedto fee the 
goodnes of the Lord in the land of the living. And it imply- 
eth truft in the vvord of God, as fure and ftable : it is fbme- 
times tranQated7?^^<«i?,or conflant^H expounded by trufiy 
they beleeved not in God->andtrMjlednotinhi^ falvatfon. 

The fecond word is oppoled to feeblenelTe of mind,feare 
and doubt, and imports a to trttflfecurely : IwilltrHFl^nd 
not be afraid. He f)iiU not he afraid of evill tidings : hu 
heart is fixed trufling in the Lord- They that truB in the 
Lordfhallhe of Mount Siony'^hich cannot he removed, hm 
abideth forever. 

The thrid is rendred to trufiy but fignifieth to betake 
himfelfe to one, as to his caflle or hiding ^lace. b Blejfedare 
all they that put their trufi-inhim; How excellent is thj 
loving kindneJfeyO Lordy therefore the children of men put 

their 



Faith IS an ajftance or confidence. 



25 



their trffjf^ attderthcjhadownffthjfwifigs. Tht Lordrtcom- 
pence thy rverkt ^and a fnll reward i^e given thee of the Lord 
God of Ifraeli under rfhofe veings thou art come to trn^. 
The righteous foall if e glad in the Lord, andJhaUtrnFt in j 
him. The Lord is goody aftrong hold in the day of tronhlej I 
and he k^oweth them that trufi in him. Hence God is cal- 
led ourfroteUiony $r hiding palace, to which wee may flit in 
troubleyand find fhelter : God is our refuge and Jhre^gth, a 
verieprefent help in time of tronhle. 

The fourth is to leane itfont even as a man would ftay 
himlelfcona fhfteywbercwkhheis onderproppcd. <^Be. 
can fe thou haft relyednpon the King «/ Syria, & not relied 
onthe Lord thy Gody therfore is the Hoft of the King of Sy~ 
via. efcaped out of thy hand. Were »<>rfi&^ Ethiopians & the 
LuhJms a huge hofiy with verjemany chariots & horfetnen? 
jet becaufethou didftrely upon the Lordjje deliveredthem 
itttothinejoand. AnuiitjhallcometopaJJeinthatdayy that 
the remnant of ifvicly and'jfuch 4# are efcaped of the houfe of 
Jicoh^Jhall no wore againe Jhay upon him that fmote them, 
but (haU fiay upon the Lordi^theMy one in truth . Two of 
theie words arc ufed together in diverfe' places, and may 
ferve to expound eachother : Wherefore fhus faith the holy 
tf»^ tf/I(rael : Becatffe ye dejpife this word, and trujt inop- 
prejfitin andpervar^e^e^andjlay thereon . Woe to them that 
gee downe toEgyptforhelpy and flay on horfes, andtruj} in 
chariots y becatife they are many ; and horfemeny btcaufe 
they are vtrie fl;rong : but they looke not unto the holy one 
of Iftacly neither fee ke the Lord. JVho is among you that 
feareth the Lordythat obeyeth the voyce of his fervantythat 
nalketh in darknejje, and hath no light y let him^tuft in the 
name of the L ordy andjiay upon his God. 

lAnother word there is almoft ofthe Time Signification, 
which noteth, with all the mind and thought confidently to 
leane, or flay upon a prop. They call themfelves of the holy 
Qiticyand flay themfelves Pipon the Lard God of ifrael, the 
Lord of Hofis is his name. So it is noted of the people of 
Ifrael, that they refiedy or leaned upon the words of King | 

Hex.ekiahy I 



Ru hi-Ta- 
Nah 1.7. 



pr3i.4<f t. 

Joel J 16, 



c '- Chroni*. 

2 Chron.iT.ix. 
Prov.3 5. 
iCaj JT I. 
aChron.i3-j'' 



Ifay 10. 



Ifay 3- IS. 
Ifay 3 1. X. 



1% 50.10. 



Ifay 4'? i. 



16 

2Chron.J».8. 



pfal.yro/. 
Pfel.ni.738- 

ira.2(J.aj3,1» 



Fanh is an a^tance or confidence. 



\ 



Pfal.22-8. 



Pfal.J7-J- 
P10V.163. 



ajerem.17.5. 
b Pfal.6z.e,7. 



c Pral.r.12. & 
S4.8. 

Mark.i^.rtf. 
Efay 2&g. 
Rom.5.1. 

pnizz.j. 

Rom.io.ir. 

Pfal.ri2.7,8. 

Heb 10.38. 

d Matth. 9.2,22, 

Lut5.20. 

iJob.5.!3,i4. 

A9:5 17.25. 

Luk.i6.ii-. 

Rom. 3.^. 

&-4.r9. 

Ma1k.11.54. 



H€z.€kiah, comforting them againft the rage o£ Senache- 
rib. This word is coupled fometimes with one or two o- 
thers ; Thou art my ho^ej O Lord God, thou an my truft 
from my youth , By th ee have I beene holden up or under- 
vropded, from the rvomb, Hee jhall not bee afiaidfor evill 
tidinirs ; hi^ heart is fixed, trttfiing in the Lord. His heart 
is efiablijhed, hee jhall not be afiaid-, untillhee fee his defire 
Hfon his enemies. Openyee the gates y that the right eom 
nation rehich keepeth the truth j may enter in. Thou wilt 
k^ep him in perfeti peace) whofe mind is fiayed on thee ; be- 
caufe he trufteth in thee. Truflyee in the Lord for ever i 
for in the Z(?r<^Jehovah is everlafiing flrength. --' ' 

The fixth word fignifies,f<? roll, or caFt himfelfekpon the 
Lord', as a man, in danger of drowning, catcheth faft hold 
of (bme willow, or other thingthathangeth over the water, 
and is at hand ; or as hee that is preffed with a greivous- 
burden above hisftrength, eafeth himfelfe, reftingit upon 
ibme^oft or block that is able to beare it . He trufied in the 
Lord that he would deliver him * let him deliver him^ fee- 
ing he rolled himfelfeon the Lord* Rollthy way upon the 
Lord ; trufi in him, and he (hall bring it to paffe. %oJl thy ' 
Works upon the Lordyandthy thoughts (hall be efiabli/hed. 
a To truft in man is to make man his arme, letting his heart 
goeback from God : ^ and to truft in Godj is to place our 
ftrength in him. 

In the Scriptures, confidence is ofc put for faith,and truft 
expounded by beleefe : c as where the Old Teftament com- 
mandeth truft, the Nevv Teftament requireth faith: and in 
theNewTeftamentthe fame things are attributed to faith 
and beleevers, which in the Old Teftament are attributed 
to confidence, and them that truft in the Lord. In the New 
^ Teftament,Faith and beleefe are put for tf uft and aflffance ; 
and to beleeveis not onely to aflent, but to reft upon and 
embrace. The phrafe which the Holy Ghoft moft com- 
monly ufeth toexprefl'e Beleevingin C^r/^, is neither in 
the Greek TranQation of the Old Teftament, nor (for ought 
hath beene yet obferved) in any Greek Author whatfoever, 

except 



Faith is an affiance or confidence* 



.. ■ ■ ■I j-B ... ' ■ ■ . ■ ., .a m .-- ■■!> .,, !■* 



«7 



except thofe that did write finccj and tooke it from the 
Scripture. To beleevein God, or in Chrift, is for fubftance 
and fenfej to triift to God, or Chrift^ and this kind of 
fpeech is ufuall amongft Greek Writers. To help us in the 
underftandingofthfs matter, the Seventie in their Greek 
afford another phrafe marvellous figniiicant, To beleeveon, 
otupoK Cod. This the Holy Ghoft ufeth often : but withall 
.h^ becomes the Autborof anewephrafehimfelfe, to make 
•jUs the more eafily and fully underftand what faith bee mea- 
neth in the matter of our Juftification. And though the 
^fphraie be fbmetimes ufed, when true and lively confidence 
4s not underftood; yet it is more than probable, that the 
Holy Ghoftjby this new manner of fpeech,would propound 
ipmewhat more than bare aflenting to the truth of what was 
promifed. And if wee confiderthe paflagesof Scripture, 
jwhereinthe phrafeisufed, it will bee plaine and evident. 
^Tqhimth/it work^thmt, hut bfileeveth on'him that jufii- 
.fieth-^^^e.ftngcdljii hpi-faith is counted for righteaufne^e. 
; Wbat is tkiSy'Beiee'vethofi him that.JHfiifieth the ungodly^ 
jio more, but beleeving thofe things tobee true, which hee 
affirmeth, who juftifieth the ungodly ? that is not probable. 
3eholdi my in Sion a flttmblingftonei atid rock^ of offeftce; 
(Ond T^hefoe/pir belee'Veth on htm^fhall not he djhamed. How 
can a man beleeve on this rock, unlefle he leane upop it, or 
ftick and adhere unto it ? 

Faith looketh at the promifes as true, and putteth forth 
jit fclfe, to receive and fembrace them as good ; which can- 
not be done by abareperlwafionof themind. If the pro- 
mifes were onely trucy but no wayes beneficiall, there 
might bee an affured perfwafion of them in mind, without 
any affed^ion or moving of will towards them : But faith 
adhereth to the word as goodtomee, as well as true in it 
felfe, which cannot bee done without a godly affection 
..embracing it. To beleeve on Chrift,is, to receive him. And 
what is this receiving ? Not onely a comprehenfion of 
the underftanding, but an embracing of the heart and affe- 
6lion, laying hold on him, as wee take that with the hands 

1 :,y which 

•* • ' , 



^. Pial.2.i2. 

2 Chron.Ig.7. 

Pral-77.26.&: 
iri.7' & 124.1. 
Sept. 
e i\{. 

Afts 19.4. and 



,&: 



4.24. 



Manh.i'.42 

Joh.i.rs. 

f Joh.a.aj. & 

12.42. 



Rom.4,5. 



Rom. 9.^ 3. 

I Pct.2.^. 



JofM.12". 

Col.2.e» 



28 



Fauh IS an a^ianceorcon^dence. 



Rom.9 JJ. 
X Pet. 2.''. 
Joh.i4.i.&3 I*- 
& 5».35,;6. 
s, Matth.r6»i6' 
joh.ia.jt. 
Rom.xo.?. 
I Cor.t^2, 3,4. 
AftsJ.Jj. 



Joh.4.15. 



Mark.ii4« 



which is reached unco us. Beleevingon Chriftis implyed 
in the phrafe o^goingi or commtng to Chrifi j which going, 
no doobt,is rather a fpirituall mocionof the heart andafFe- 
(fticns towards Chrift, than a contenTplation oftbc mind 
contented to fee and beholdhim. 

The Holy Ghoft, (peaking of juftifying faith,doth ufethc 
entire phrafc ^ of y»i>^ in God and Chrifi ^ or on God and 
Chrifti which either there or elfewhere is declared by con- 
fidence, or truft in God and Chrift. And the fame muft be 
underftood, when nothing is added> gbutlifeorjuftificati- 
on is attributed to belcefe> that Jefw Chrifi is the fon of 
God. For it is a genera II rule, that words of knowledge are 
words of affe(5tion, much more words of beleefe. 

As the people of God looked for^eMeffias, fb iaecor- 
ding to the prophecies, they promilcd to themfclvcs all 
good in & by theMedias. Tne woman o( Samaria could 
fay, fVhen the Meflias commeth, he wilt teach tu all thimgs : 
Where we may fee, that there was not onely a knowlcdjge 
of Chrift to come, bur an expc6J:ation and hope placed in 
him, iS in whom all good things promifed, (houkf beeac- 
complifhed. So that if weeconfidcr the difpofition of the 
people, whole hope did hang on the Meflfias, we may plain- 
ly underftand, thattobcleeve theMefiat, isiK)toncfyi30 
know, bot to have anaflfiance irt him. 

If by beleeving that Jefus is Chrift, no rrtcx'e bee meant 
but bare aCentingunto that truth, then the Devils profefle 
as much. But that beleefe to which life is afcribed is ndt 
a bare ad'ion of the underftanding, l5TJt of the heart and 
will. It is fuch a beleefe, as whereby Chrift is to our hearts 
that which weebeleeve him to be: whereby wee come to 
Chrift, beleeve in him, and reft upOtt him for felvation: 
whereby Wee beleeve to otir owiic ufe and comfort that 
which wee beleeve. It is fuch abeleefe as dc fircth,feekecba 
embracetbjholdeth, joycthinthac which it beleevcth, be- 
caufe therein it feeth peace; whereby wee fb beleeve, that 
Jefus isf Chrift, as that according to that we beleeve himto 
be, we put our truft and confidence in him* ■■"■^' • 

The 



Popifh ObjeUtons prevented. 



19 



The faith <^ Airaham is commended forthcfirmc al- 
fenctbat hec gave to thepromife of God : but the confi- 
dence of his heart reftingupon and cleaving unto thepro- 
mife, isnotobfcurely declared. ForthcApoftle faith. A- 
hraham hcleeved Mhovehofe, thatisj bee conceived firme 
confidence in heart of the truth and power of God. 
Which is manifeft bythc Antithefis, Hee doubted not bj 
Z diftrufi or infidelitie ', for incredulitie is as well the di- 
ftruft ^ of heart, as the hefitation of mind. If Ahraham-, 
had onely acknowledged the truth of that which God 
promifed , and not trufted to him for the performance 
thereof, what could that faith have profited him ? What 
can it availcanyman tojuftification, that bee holds Jeliis 
Chrift to be the onely Saviour, and faiih in him the onely 
mcanes of Salvation, if he doe notwithall relye upon him 
tobe faved by his mediation ? What, that the Apoftlc him- 
feife applying that particular of Abraham to all beleevers, 
cxpoundcth that beleeving, by confidence in or relying up- 
on God : rifhich beleeved e» him thatraifed ftp Jejm our 
Lord fi-om the dead. 

Faith is the [ubfianceoj things ho^edfor^ and the evi- 
dence of things notfeetje, not onely hecaufe it makes things 
(peculatively tofubfiftinthemind, bur much more becaufe 
it makes them ifiduciallytofubiift in the heart, as appea- 
rethby theApoftle, putting '^ilibftance and confidence for 
the lame. For the fubfirtence of things hoped for is truft 
or confidence, whereby wee reft on the promifes divine, 
knowing and being perfwaded that God will make 
good whatfoever hee hath fpoken : And faith is the fob- 
ftancc of things hoped for, becaufe it is a confident refting 
upon God forthe accomplishment of what hee hath fpo- 
ken, as if it were already fulfilled. And fbitis thedemon- 
ftration of things to come, not intelMuallonely, butfi- 
duciall : which is a fveet motion of the heart, enlarging 
itfelfe, and refting in the mercic of God, prelentand to 
come; and making things to come fnafort prefent to the 
heart, in rcipciSl ot the prbmife made by God, and the tafte 

and 



am prevmred. 

Belief, de Juftif. 
IfO.t eap.f. 



g As the vulvar 

hath :t. 

Rom-4.20« 

h Mapli. 14.31. 

and 17.20. 

MaFk.^.24* 



Rom.4.?4. 

Heb.ii.i. 
'Bellar.dejitji. 
lib. I, idp.s. 

i Heb.4.i^.and 
io-J2,55. 
k Heb.3.'<,T4. 
a Cor.9.4.aiK( 
11.17. 
Ezek,i9.y. 
Mich. 5- 7. 
Pfal.gS ti. 
Sept. 



30 



PopjhObjeBions prevented* 



Heb.ii.j. 



Ephef.3.12. 

'Sellar.de^uji. 
lih.l. cap.6. 
§.jf«4rM. 



Joh.4.?.'. 






and inchoation of the good promifcd. That faith is an af- 
fentto divine revelation, that it is in the underftanding, 
and that the 3.€t of faith is to underftand, no man deny eth : 
but it is an aflent conjoyned with affiance, not a bare, but 
fiduciallafl'ent: which is referred to God as heeis faith- 
full in performing promifes, as hope is referred to him, as 
hee hath power and authoritie to pcrforme whatfoevcr hee 
hath promiled. 

The Apoftle faith, Wee have boUnefe andaccejfet with 
confidence by the faith ofChriB : which paflage doth rather 
prove faith to bee confidence, than otherwife: for confi- 
dence may be joyned to faith as his proper paflion, A man 
is faid to worke by reafon, becaufe hee is reafonable: fb 
faith to come unto God with confidence, becaufe it is fi- 
duciall. Nothing can make another thing hot, which 
hath not heat in it felfe ; nor could faith ingender confi- 
dence in the beleever, if in itjowne nature it did not con- 
tainc the fame. God is love cflentially and originally, and 
yet hee workethlove in us, another kind of love, which is 
an image and effe6l of his love. Love in which wee ob- 
ferve the Commandements, is the formall effe<51:of love, 
the cffeds of love flow from love* As the tffe^ is, lb is 
thecaufe. Can the waters bee Iwcet, if the ibuntainc bee 
bitter? Confidence accompanying faith relpedlcth all the 
promifes of God, and is the ftore-houfe of aH particular 
confidence : the confidence wrought by faith, is the par- 
ticular application of this generall confidence. Confidence 
confidered as it doth embrace Chrift with a certaine affi- 
ancej is the forme of faith : as it begetteth in us quietnefle 
of confciencc, and confidence of libertie, it is an cfFe^ of 
faith. The meaningof the Apoftle fccmeth to bee this; 
Becaufe wee are reconciled unto God by faith in Chi-ift, 
therefore in confidence (or confidently) wee come unto 
God, neither diftruftino nor doubting that wee have ac- 
ce{fe unto him. So that by confidencein Chrift, wee have 
confidence in God toobtaine thofe things that wee ftand 
in need of. Moreover, confidence is oppofed to doubting, 

when 



Fatth is an obediemiall affiance. 



3^ 



when the underftanding doth cleave to nekherpartof the 
contradiction, but doth float betwixt both ; and to diftrull, 
when the will doth chuielnot to trul^ to the promifer. And 
if we expound the words of the Apoftlein the paflage be- 
fore cited, of confidence as it is oppofed to doubting, the 
(enie runneth- plainely. By faith wee havelbfcee and full 
acceiTejthacwcdoenot doubt, but wee (liallobtaine what 
weaskc. 

§. 4. Faith is a lively obfequious affiance, joy ned with 
an affedliion of pietie : for ss it makes plea .for mercie, {o it 
tbrufteth forward in obedience; as it uniteth the heart to 
thepromiles, foit giuethfafttotheCommandements; as 
Z)4t/iV/ faith. Teach me good judgement and k»owledge,for 
I have beleeved thy Cemmandements. By faith Noah mo- 
vedwirh re-verence.prepared the Arkefor thefaving of his 
hou-Jho/d. Bj faith khrahsim /eft his countrey and kjfidred, 
andforlbok all ftrangerdigions and idols to follow God: 
Bj faith he contentedly abode in the land ofQiLnAnny as in a 
firange landy and walking from place to place remained in 
tents, and in everie place fhewed his godly devotion in 
making an Altar, and calling upon the name of the Lord: 
He kindly yeelded to his nephew Lot, for avoiding of con- 
tention j charitably rcfcued him when hee was taken prifb- 
ner^ carefully provided a wife for his ioTilfaac-, fervently 
intreatcd for the Citieof Sodome ; and meekly prayed for 
him that had taken his wife, Hee is honourably commen- 
ded by Godhimfelfe for his good inftru6lion to hishoufe- 
hold, children and pofteritie, that they might walke in the 
way es of the Lord •.. but above all other hee approved his 
faith in this, that upon Gods Commandement he lb readily 
offered up his fon Ifaacjheins, (after Ifmae/stxpvilC^on) his 
onelyfon, his beloved Ton, and concerning whom hee had 
received the promileof life and ialvation,and the eflablifli- 
mentof the Covenant. 

xJl^ofes confent in this do61rine maybe found, where 

God pronounceth the Law of the ten Commandcments, 

teaching all duties of good works to God and Man, 

" faying. 



^ Cor.t.i43ij. 
a Cor. J. 4. 
1 Cor.8.22. 
1 Cor. 10.2. 



. §.4- 
Fafth tt an ebedi- 

entiall affitnce. 



Pfal.119 6S. 
Heb.ii-7. 
Gen. 12. 1, 
Heb.ii.8_,9, 
Gen.isS. 
and i-f'ij^' 



Gen. 74 I. 
Gen.8.123. 
and 2U.17. 



Gen.18.1^, 



Hcb.ji 17, 



3» 



Faith is an ohediem'sallaj^iancem 



Ex<9d.20.I,2. 
Ratiiol. xApol. 
The/. S6SI.4. 
Zanch de RS' 
dcmpt.lib.i.c^p. 
12. depfttcept. 
Tilen. Syntag, 
part. 1. cap. "^6' 
§ . r8,ISi.28,29. 
Tffr^zw Golden 
Chaiiie, cap.20. 
ffrfin.explic. 
eatecb. &c- 
Deut.6.i2. 
Deut.aCrj' 



Pfal.iKf.io. 



2 Chron. i6.?>5. 

Pfal.jS.S. 
Mal.i.tf.' 

Gal. 5.26. 



faying, / am the Lord thy god ; he thereupon inferreth all 
their obedience to thofe Commandements. For what is, 
Jam the Lord thy Godyhm. the covenant of faith to be their 
God in the promife of Chrift > upon this hee requiring 
obedience in a godly life, doth infinuatc, that they which 
beleeve God to be their God, nnuft declare the iame by 
obedience to bis Commandements. And therefore hee 
faith in another phcQiBewarethotf forget not the Lord th^ 
Godi mt kjiefing his Commandements : which fheweth 
plainly, that where difobedience is, there is no faith; for 
how can hee have faith, chat forgetteth him in whom hee 
fliould beleeve? And this dothmf<?/tf/aimeat, when hee 
faith, ThoH ha^avoHchedthe Lordthis day to he thy ^ody 
andtorvatks inhitrpayes, andf keefehis Statute Sy and 
his Commandements J and his judgement Sj and to hearken 
unto his voice. Whereby it appeares, that unto fairfi in co- 
venanting with God, this is an infeparablc cOnfeqwcnt ; that 
i^^NC. embrace God by faith, wee muft and ought to follow 
his Commandements by our deeds ; and hee chat doth not 
this latter, bewray eth chat hee kath not with a true heart 
and faith received the former. 

To beleeve is not onely to give credence to what the 
Saipture faith, but to embrace what is faid with ah entire 
adherence of Ibule, and to cleave unto it. Hee that leineth 
upon the Lord, his heart is upright before him: and hee,, 
whole Ipirit cleaveth not ftedfaftly unto the Lordj is in- 
credulous. Therefore the Prophets which expound the 
Law, in the perlbn of God, lay thus ; zyi Son honoureth 
hisVathery and a Servant his Mafier .* If then I he a Fa-^ 
therjtvhere is my honour ? and if I he a Maftertwhere is my 
feare f Now wee know that wee are Sonnes no way but by^ 
faith : Therefore this Prophet inrendeth , that wee arc 
nocjoyncdtothc Lordbyftith, either as his people, chil- 
dren, orlcrvants, or that he is our God, Fattier and Lord, 
except our faith be unfained and operative in honour and^ 
feare. And another Prophet faith, Iheleeved, therefore J, 
f^akSi, making it a moft aflurcd thing, that a lively faith 

will. 



1 



Faith is an obedtenttallAffiance, 



33 



will fliew it felfe by outward deeds , and namely pro- 
feffion. 

Mercie and obedience are linked ; Chrift is both a Lord 
and Saviour: and that faith which makes plea for mercie, 
doth embrace the Commandements ; that which receiveth 
Chrift as a Saviour, fubmitteth unto him as a Soveraigne. 
The ftrength of faith is equall to the promifes of lifcj and to 
the offices of pietie and love : or if there be any difference, 
it is weakeft to lay hold upon the promifes, becauie they 
are moft Ipirituall, and furtheft removed from fenfe. Confi- 
dence and relying upon the mercie of God in Chrift for 
falvation,may be leffe than care and abilitie to walk in obe- 
dience, greater it cannot be. The word that in the Old Te- 
ftament fignifieth, tofeekft is by the Seventie tranflated, 
i/^jp^-, which interpretation the Apoftle alloweth : whence 
itfollowethjthat true confidence, the mother of hope, doth 
lift up the heart to feeke the Lord in the way of his Com- 
mandements. 

Moreover, faith is oppofed not onely to doubting, diffi- 
dence, and fainting : but to wavering, double-mindednefle, 
baking, difobedience, ftubbornnefle ; by reafon of the ne- 
ceiTarie connexion of thofepartsin both oppofites. (»yfske 
in faith ^a^d reaver not : A double 'mindedman is unfiable 
in all his wayes. Through unbeleefe tlffot^'-o^broken ojf,and 
thoufiandefi by faith. Take heed:,brethreny lefi at any time 
there be in yon an evili heart and unfaithfully to depart a- 
way from the living Cjod. They profeffe that they k^ow 
God, but by works they deny him, and are abominable} and 
difobedientiorunfaithfull. Hecthat heleeveth in the Son 
hath everlafiing life : but hee thai beleeveth (or obeyeth) 
not the Son^fhallnot fee life-, but the wrath of God abideth 
onhimu. Now if incredulitie bee not without diffidence 
and difobedience, true faith in God is not without confi- 
dence and affe6lion of obedience. 

Hereunto may be added, that the manifold rebellions of 
Ifraelin the wilderneffe are called unbeleefe. They belee- 
ved not in Gody and trufied not in hisfiilvation : for all this 

D they 



Ifa.n.io. 
Rom. 15. 12. 



Jami.6,S. 
R0m.11.20, 
Hcb3.i2. < 

Tit.i.i^. 
Joh,3 35. 



Pfal.78.22_,3 : 



34 



Jiiic 5. 



ijuh.3.23,a4. 



V^ 



Matth.1543. 



bs wsU-To^itsd.. 



2 . SmndandfiTr 
m/Jitnt. 



A^tan.ce mufj^ be iveU- rooted, 

they fi)ined.ftilU mdh sleeved not for his voondrom workj • 
I vp ill therefore ^Mt you in remembrance^ thonirh jeeonce 
knero this-})aw that the Lord having faved the peotle om of 
thelandfif^^y^tj afterward dejlroyed them thatbeleeved 
mt. Andbeleefe inChriftinferrech the keeping of Gods 
Commandcments,\vhereunto the Ibnle is inclined by faith. 
And this is his (fommandementi that v^eefhould heleeve on 
the name ef his fonne Jefm Chrifl, and love one another 
as hee q;ave m commandement . And heethat keepeth his 
Commandensents, dwelleth in him-, and hee in him : and 
hereby roe k^ow that he abideth in Pts^hy thejpirit which he 
hath given i^' 

§. 5. This faith is an affiance well-rooted, and kindly 
planted, fb that it diftufeth its vertne into everie affe6>ion, 
even the whole mafle^ which it h ordained to purifieand 
(t^^on. It is foclole fettled and faftened, that neither the 
feare of perfecution can icorch it, nor the cares of this 
world choke it, northsbveof pleafure witherit: and be- 
ing ib deeply fee, it diiperfeth the vertueoftbe Word into 
everie facultie of the ibule, whereby we are ieaibned^as a lit- 
tle Jeaven-Ieaveneth the whole lump wherein it is bid.Teni- 
j porarie faith makes its abode in the confines or fuburbs of 
tbeibulej theexternali face of the heart, but ibkes not into 
the bottome of it : either it hath but (hallow rooting, or at 
beft, can never get under the love of pleafisre or worldly 
cares, which are fafi rivet ted in^ and will not bee removed 
outoftheaffei^ions; and being planted fliailow, it doth 
nor, it cannot fend itsvertue into the feverail faciikies of 
the ibule, to feafbn t hem thorowont. For fo far as the Word 
enters, it leafoneth : but being entertained fleightly, with 
fuboi-dination, it feafonetbbut fuperHcially. 

2. Jadifyinf; faith is a found ^r\d permanent affiance, 
which arifeth from t-he firme fetting and rooting of ic in 
theheart. Forwhenthe wordof hfeisftedfaftly, difxinf^- 
^'i certainly aflented unto, and fincerely embraced, no 
temptation or affaulc can makeaman flinch j (hnffle-, ©r 
fcart afide from the conRant proTecution of lalvation in 

the 



ji^iance muft be well-rooitd. 



35 



the way of life, and the faitbfull practice of foch duties as 
God prefcrifaes for the attaining of that end. Faith that is 
(incerein qualitie, is ever found in degree, being of ftrength 
tomakerefiftanceagaiftfl; all opposition that (hall encoun- 
ter it , having taken the heart for its Fort and defenced 
Tower. Againe, Faithbeing oncefctinthe heart, asinits 
throne and feat of Majeftie, dotheverie day confirme and 
flrengthenit felfe more andmore^ whereby the Beleevcr 
growes morerelblute to withftand all aflaults and tempta- 
tions fliot againft him. The faith that takes kindly, fpreads 
it it\£^ by afient and clofe adherence to everie objedl with- 
in the Ipheare of divine Truth, to which it cleaveth invin- 
cibly, and from which it cannot bee (eparated by any ad- 
verfe power, or carnall allurement, naturall pafsion:,or fierie 
aflaulr. 

The temporariebeleeveracknowledgeth thefummeof 
Chriftian duties or pra61:ices, and fubfcribes unto them in 
grofle, yea unto mod particulars; but ever with limitati- 
on, fubdu6ling as much as well pleafing humours difallow, 
untill hee finally diflblve what true faith buildeth, even un- 
to thefirft foundation, ii the oppofition of carnall feares, 
hopes, love, or hate come once to bee eager andditef!:. 
And this comes to pafle, becaufe the Word was never 
rightly planted in an honeft heart : for as the tree that is 
not let deep to take lively rooting , doth in fuccefle of 
time wither, though for many yeares it may bring forth 
both leaves, buds, and fruit ; 16 it is with the temporaric 
beleever, becaufe the Word is not well hid and rooted in 
him. 

3. As faith is a found, lb is it an over- ruling affiance, 
exercifing an nniverfall mild foveraigntic in Man. Faith 
ordinarily ruleth where it dwelleth: but the regiment is, 
mild and gentle, not rigorous and tyrannicall. Foritfea- 
foneth our inbred affe6i:ions, altereth the tafte of everie ap- 
petite, qualifieth and ftrengthenethour naturall inclinati- 
on to that which is good, and powerfully perfwadeth to 
deny our felves and follow the Lord. It hath everie defire 

D 2 at 



I, Over-ruling. 



3^ 



j4ffiance mufi be tvell-rooted. 



2 Tim.1.12. 
I Joh.5.43y. 

phil.413. 



at command, or as it were underfhot, that it dares not fiir 
to its prejadicej)ut by (tealth, or fome fecret advantage, e- 
rpied by the flclli unable to ftand out agajnft it. It is of 
ftrength to makeredftance againft alloppofition, and break 
the violence of everie inclination contrarie tofuch motion 
asitfuggefteth, having its force unitedbycloferepofall in 
the heart. It curbeth unruly paiTions ; as the power of a 
Kingdome doth eafily quell a company of Rogues, th^t 
make inrodes upon the borders, but cannot fet footing in 
the heart of the Kingdome. Whatfbever is in the world, 
whereby we might bedrawne away from God, thatisfub- 
dued and vanquifhedby the power of faith : The pravitieof 
nature, the wiles of Satan, all evill concupilcence, whatfb- 
ever is op'pofite to the Spirit of God, that is brought under 
by the might of faith. 

Trueit is, that our warfare doth laft during life, ourcon- 
flidls are daily, new and diverfe battels are moved againft: 
us by the enemy almoft everie moment: but in all thele 
faith is vi6torious. Thii is the viUory where hy ree overcame 
the world, even our faith, who is he that overcomes the 
worldibfit he that beleeveth that Jeftti is the Son ofGodf I 
am able to do all things through Chrifi thatfirengthens me. 
David firft encounters a Lion and a Beare, and afterwards 
overcomes the g^t^LtCjoUah : (o true and lively faith firft 
begins with pettie defires and paflions, or fiich temptations 
as are incident to our prefent ftate and calling ; and having 
gotten mafterie over them, ftiilincrcafethas difficulties or 
oppofitions multiply, untill at length Satan, the world, and 
the fleQi be brought into fubjeftion. But temporarie faith, 
keeping refidence onely in the out-face of the heart, is o- 
verfwayed and overborne in temptation by everie itrong 
defire, or deep-rooted paffion. It may perhaps fupprefle 
fome one or few exorbitant paflRons, and keep under the 
out-breach of ibmeothers ; but the pafsion it (elfe doth ftill 
live, and beare fway, to keep faith out of its throne, and in 
time will prevaile to choake the fWd of grace. 
4. M$a humble, j ^, Of all graces faith is the mort humble ; a poore peti- 
' cioner 



Faith is afpirituaHsafie. 



37 



' doner, a begging h^nd> receiving all things of favour, chal- ( 
lenging nothing tp it, felfe^ afcribirg all good to the praife of 
grace. It fighteth t?yanfully> triumpfaeth vidlorioufly, wor- 
keth by love : but in all this it magnifieth the grace of God, 
relyeth upon him and feeketh his praife. 

§. 6, L^fily? juftifying faith for nature andqualitieis a 

fpiricualltaft^, howfeever defe<^l:ive for degree. It receiveth 

the Wwd, tgft,ethj relifheth, and retaineth it, as the moft 

fweet, whollbme, and delef^able food. There is the fame 

proportion betwixt the word of life, the food of the Ibule, 

and the lively faith, that isbetwixt bodily food and the in^ 

(Irument of bodily tafte. Hearken diligently unto me, and 

eatyee that ili^hich is good^andtet your [onle delight it [elf e 

infatMJfe. The word profiteth them not (faith the Apoflle, 

fpeaking of the Ifraeiites) becau[e it wax not mixed with 

faith in them that heard it: where the dp6irine of falva- 

tion is compared to wine, which profiteth notjunleffeit be 

drunken, that i«, received by faith : and lobelee've, is ipiri-^- 

tualiy to drinke the cup offalvation. My Joule thirjleth for 

thee ({mh David J 'Becaufethy lovingkindneffe is better 

than lifey my lips ^ailpratfe thee : Afyfoule(hall befatif- 

fied as with marrow &fatnef[e, &c. To beleeve in Chrift, 

is to eat theflefh of the Son of man, and to drifike his bloud. 

Temporarie faith tafteth the Word, as men doe meat 

which they fpit outagaine; receiveth it as a rawflomack 

doth meat , which it vomiteth up and cannot hold : but 

it never feedeth kindly upon the feverall parts of the 

Word of life, nor ftandeth affeiled towards it, as a good 

rtomack doth to wholfbme nourifhment; which \% evi- 

i dentin that the weeds ofearthly-raindednefle,pride,pIea- 

\ fure sre not ftocked up by the roots ; and where thefe abide, 

ithefoukis not- rightly tempered to: apprehend the worth 

■ andqualitie, orfeed uponthe juyceof feeasvenly myfteries. 

^ But wh^re true and lively faith hath refidence, thefouleis 

I tempered tofymbolize with divine goodnefle, and ftaa*^ 

i deth^ 3j^e6led to the fevejriH branches of ths iWord,; dssD 

good ap^Qtite drf>tb;to ; who Ifoisise food ©f diAf^rfejqiialJEiesJ 

■-.? '■ D 3 " This 



Faith t) ajpiri^ 
ttiaU tafia. 



iray55.2. 



Heb.4.a, 



Pfal.(;3. 1,3,5. 



53,54* 



Heb.6.5. 



38 



Love is not the fouUof Faith* 



Faith admits m*- 



§. I. 

Lneisimtbt 



This is the nature of juftifying faith : but it admits ma- 
ny interruptions in a6ts or operations. The mind is fbme- 
timcs darkened with mifts arifingfrom our naturall cor- 
ruptions ; fometimes our paflGons ftirviolcntlyj that wee 
cannot doe aswewouldj nor continue our adherence unto 
the word of life, as better for the time being than the pro- 
fecution of Ibme fenfuall good , that for the prefcnt doth 
moveour affeflionsjandis (lolneinto them. Naturall tafte 
is diftempered with fick humours that abound in the body : 
fo is the fpirimall with temptations from without, andfpi- 
rituall difeafes from within. Thus it is with the beft often- 
times in this life? whileftthemindis douded with earthly 
tiioughtsr^nd the heart aflailed with carnall luftsj which 
through weaknefle, or neglect of watchfnlnefle, creep upon 
anddiflurb them for a time : but in their right temper and 
good plight they are much better ; they tafte and feed upon 
the word of truth, and the favour of God is fweeterto them 
than all the delights of the Ions of men. We conclude then 
that juftifying faith is a firme, abfolute, unHmited afTent, 
and well-rooted, all-leafoningjfoveraigne affiance,whereby 
wee reft upon Chrift for falvation, embrace the mercies of 
God as better than Iife,and {<ZQd upon the Word with fweet 
re&eOiing and delight. 



CHAP. IV. 

liove is notthefoule of faiths yet jttfiifpng Taith 
cannot bereithoHt Love. 

§. r- Ti^Rom that which hathbeene fpokenof the nature 
iTof Faith, thefetwo things doe plainely follow; 
Firflr, that love is not the life andibuleof faith. Sccond- 
Jy, that juftifying^ faith cannot be without love. As light 
and heat in the Sun bee infeparable, fo is faith and love, 
being knit tc^ether in a fure bond by the Holy Ghoft : 

but 



Love IS not thefoate of Faiths 



39 



but love cannot be the forme or foule of faith. Livelyhood 
is the qualification. Love the companion, Works the fruits 
oreffc<ils of that faith that juftifieth: but faith receiveth 
not itsvertue, life, or efficacie from jcharitie, or any other 
vertue, but from the Spirit, of whom it is breathed into us, 
from whom alio it receiveth, that it may give force to all 
other vertues and good works,whereby they are vertues and 
good works. It is Faith^ and not Charitie, that gives influ- 
ence to all other graces, even to Charitie it felfej as faith 
encreafeth, {bother graces encreafe; as faith decrealeth, lb 
other graces decreale: the life of faith is our life, the 
ftr ength of faith is our ftrength : if our faith be weak, there 
is nothing elfe whereby we can be ftrong. 

It is the effentiall forme or a6t of faith, to accept of the 
promifes of mercie, whereby we obtaine them alio ; God 
having appointed that as a condition, that the pr^mife 
might hfure to all thefeed,to exclude boafting, amJtofet 
forth his hree grace and favour. But Charitie cannot ferve 
for thatufe: bccaufe I cannot prefume of that that is ano- 
thers, upon any conscience of my love towards him, but up- 
on confidence onely of his love towards me. Be it that all 
things are common amongft friends, before wcecanbuild 
thereupon ,wemuft have it refolved unto us,that God takes 
us for his friends, which can bee no otherwifebutby faith 
onely. Faith muft firft receive,embrace,and hold the merit 
of the bloud of Chrift, before there can be any aflurancc of 
friendship betwixt God and us. And although, being now 
in friendfhip with Chrirt, our love may give us encourage- 
ment and comfort to makeufe to ourfelvesof that that is 
his I yet it is not by our love that wee take it to make ufe 
thereof. For the a6t of love is done onely by iffue and paf- 
fagcfrom him that lovcth, to the thing that is loved, as fi:om 
us to Chrift ; and therefore it muft be Ibmcwhat elfe, where- 
by we receive from Chrift to us. 

How fhould the goodnefie of God be the obje£l of 
our charitie, but by being firft the object of our faith ? For 
therefore doe wee love the goodnefle of God, or love God 

D 4 for 



Heb.ir.jj, 
Gal. 3.14 22. 
Matth.8.15. 
Rom. J. 1 6. 
Rom. J. 27, 



Rom.j.25. 



40 



Leve fe" not thefouleof Faith. 



( forbis goodneffe towards US) becaufe firft wee beljsevgthe 
\ rame,neicher can we fo lovcbut by beleevi ng. For chariciej 
confiftingfimplyin afte^ion, apprehends nothing in God 
of itfelfe : but receivefh all from faith. The forme is tho. 
b^inning ofa6lions,and that that giveth influence and Mo. 
to another thiiig,muft needs have a prioritie to that that re- 
ceivetfi it^ Buttharitie is not xht beginning of chea^diioas 
of faith, j^eciallyof the a6l of be leeving ; the a 61 of love 
hath no prioritie toteleefe, but followes after it, and is 
quickened by it. For by faith we embrace the Wcard, and 
v-Qctivt Chrift,\^hen as charitie cOmpelleth us;to love him, 
whomweknow^ettibrace, and hold by faith. Weftrfttafte 
our meat, and theriiloveit ': faith is riie?rfat4.tnaIlcafteiof,£fjc 
ibule, whicb^ed6t?h upon the fwiset arid tender nsercies of 
the Lordjbefore the heart be enflamed with love. Faith and 
love are different gifts and graces : and Ibme efifefts are at~: 
tributed to faith which agree not to charitie : a:s faith i« 
faid to juftiHe; to pUrifie the heart, to tDvepcomeche world, 
to receive th«pi:OmKes. - .• • ■ - ; 

Charitie may be called an accidental! forme of faith^chat 
K, ft i-s an inftrument unto it for moving aad ftirring-^- 1 
broadinthe performance of alidades uecommended onco 
'US, both to God and man : but the Yi'iQ. and ibuie of feich i 
k lis noti or ihe inward and effentiall forme, whereby lir 
hath life and being within itfelfe, and whence proceedeth 
a motion and working that is proper to ii^tl^Q. If charitie 
fhouldbethe forme of faith, theft faitb hath twodifeent 
formes,itsproperand theform«of love ; then faith fhould 
be the onely pfire mattet^of love? then fliould it bceobedi- 
entto love, and contained of iu as the matter is obedient 
to the forme, and containtd of it. The body is aninfiru- 
ment for the foule to vvorke by, and not the foule an in- 
ftrument for the -body to worke by. The forme worketh 
in the matter, and not the matter either in or by the 
forme, feeing the matter of everie thing is paffive onely, : 
and not adlive: And h it fhould bee betwixt faith and 
lovQ:> i? faith were as the body, and love as the foule. But 

charitie 



't^^fr- 



Popifh ObjeBions freiemed. 



41 



charitieis obedient to faith, faith governeth charitie: for | 
whatfoever we love uprightly, itmuftbeeknovvnebyfaith, ; 
that we ought to Jove it, and our love mufl; be quickened by ' 
faith, to love it oniformely,and in right order. Faith is the 
meafure of IgvCj and the meafure of love is according to the 
meafure of faith : the intention of love is according to the 
degrees of faich, and the breadth of love according to the 
extention cif faith. Where there is greacerfaith in Godj 
there is greater love to God : and as faith fpreadech it ^oifQ, 
ib doth love in uniforme manner. • ,:.:.:■' ' 

'§. 2. Faith is not wrought by charitie (as che^Jefuite 
perverteth. ^ that text oiSimvT aul) 'for thiSK- itrwill fbl- - 
low, that love by which faith is wrought muft needs bee 
before faith, whereas 'all ackn6wledge tliat faith hath the 
firft being. It is faith which firft heareth and beleeveth, 
and receiveth the word of God, and thereby prelcribeth 
untocharitie thevvay thatit is to.gocj andthedutieit is t© 
performe ; it enciteth to the worke, itanimateththe 36^, 
and er^largcth the affeilion to the ieverall branches of 
love; without which vvhat is .charitie, but a wild, mifha- 
pea, wandering a65s6lionj rifing or falling amiiTe, comming 
fliprt or running over ? what the partiall and maimed 
fruits of love, but the verie carcaffe of a good worke? 
Faith wcrketh by love, not as fire maketh hot by heat, 
which is a formail propertie inherent in it : but as the 
foule doth this or that by the hand, which is an externe 
inftrument conjoyned unto it .• That by which a thing is \ 
conflituted, as by a beginning, and by which itis efFe6lu-l 
all, that is the forme thereof. But love is a grace without 
thebeingof faith, though conjoyned unto it; and faith is 
effe6^uall by love, as a primarie meane, whereby it doth 
produce other effeds, not as by itbeginning. Chrift is the 
fountaineof the water of life : Faith in the heart is as the 
pipes and learns that receive in and hold the water; Love 
in (bme partis asthecocke of the conduit, that lets out 
the water to everie commer. Faith juftifieth by receiving 
the gift of righteoufneffe, which is by the merit of Jefns 

Chrift, 



Topifh Objeffions 
prevented. 
Gal.5.6. 
a ^elUr.deJyf 
Jlif.L2.cap.^. %. 
ivir )ie d^xTer,ir.ir 
§ . TUsfirMio. 
b TheGrecke 
word i's i:ot of 
the paisive, but 
of the middle 
voice^asit sin 
maiiy other pla- 
ces of Scripture. 
Gal.y.6. 
Rom. 7.5. 

3 Cor.4.7S. 

In the IntetHneetr, 
faith which is ef- 
fea-uall: Tag. 
««', workirg by 
love. And C> 
Bel[armi;2e him- 
felre, T3e ^ijiif. 

li'j.t. tap, 9. ir 
U'j.i, cap.z.o. 
§. llltldvsio. 
Rbem. ^naot. in 



4.3 



Fopifh ObjeBions prevented. 



I Cor. I? 13. 

1elU7m.t4htfiipru 

Heb.ii.fS. 



I InwhatrtfpeBs 
charitle dath IX- 
ctU faith, and 
faith charitie. 



EphefTj.iT. 
Gal.;-if. 



Chrift : and goeth forth by charitie, whereby as a working 
hand it performeth all duties commanded of God, to the 
gloric and honour of God. 

What i? love be the moft excellent of all graces in ibme 
relpetfts ? doth it thence follow, that it is the life of faith ? 
By the f^mereafon wee may argue, whatfoeviru not of 
j^/>^«-7/;?»ff, is ofrtoefteeme or account with God : there- 
fore faith is the forme of all other graces. It followeth 
not, that becaufe the eye is a more excellent member than 
the foot, therefore the eye is the Ibule and li^t of the foot : 
no more doth it, that becaufe charitie is a more excel lent 
gift than faithj therefore it fhould be the life and foule 
of faith. 

Faith and tove refpeftively have the preferment each of 
other. In relpedl of fpirituall life faith is the moft necei^ 
farie, upon which love hath necefiarie dependance; but 
otherwiie to love is more than tobeleeve, becaufe it ne- 
ceflari ly includes beleefe :as to tafte meat inrefpCiSl of life, 
is of more ufethan to love it,though abfblutely to love meat 
be more than to tafte it, becaufe it prefuppofcth tafte. If 
weercfpeft latitude of uic, charitie is more excellent than 
faith, as which \s extended everie way to God and men, 
and by which all the gifts of God which he beftoweth Upon 
us, are made profitable to other men: But if wee confider 
man privately in himfeife,and for his owne ule;faith i% more 
excellent than charitie, as whereby wee are radically united 
unto Chrift,and wherein ftandeth originally ourfellovvftiip 
and communion with him; by which Chrift dwelleth in 
our hearts, and wee receive the promifed Ipirit ; into which 
as an hand, Godputteth all the riches of his grace for our 
falvatiGn,-and by which all adis of grace are quickened ; we 
feed upon Chrift fortheftrengthcningand nouriOimentof 
the lbule,andwhat{bever is in us is commended unto God. 
Ifwere(pe6l length of time and continuance, charitie is to 
bee preferred before faith. For faith is but for a time, and 
whenthepromifcof God (which is the matter and fubje6l 
of it) (hall bee fully accompliftied, tbeufeofitftiallceale. 

When 



Popijh ObjeBions p evented. 



43 



When faith paflfeth into an open knowledge and revealed 
fight of the thing preient, itchangeth both his nature and 
kind. But love abideth for ever, and (hall continue be-^ 
twixt God and us an everlafting bond ; It fliall beegreater 
and more vehement, butfhallttill retainethe fame nature 
and fubftanccj albeit fome works which now ix. exerciteth 
fhallceafe. Theendof ourfaithischaritle: but the foun- 
dation and direikrof love is faith : faith alfo is the vi6lorie 
whereby weovercome the workJ. To fave a man-faith i^ the 
greater: in man being fa ved love is the greater. Till faith 
hath finillisdouFfalvation, love muft yceldto faith : when 
faitbhath ililly faved us, it fliall have an end,for knowledge 
of fight takes away faith ; but love fhall abide for ever. Ab- 
(blutely love is greater than faith, but when we fpeakeof the 
meanes-of Jurtification, and attainementbf tbatfalvationi 
whereto perfect charitie and righteoufnefle doth belong, 
then faith miri^ be preferred as the greater and morecxcel- 
lent. Faith onely beareth iway therein : and this flcnder 
andwcake charitie which wee have, is of nocffedl ormo^ 
ment thereunto. 

When the Apoftle makes comparifon htv^'wx. the body 
without theffirit, znd faith without wor/^jconcluding that 
they are both dead,, hee cannot bee thought to make love 
the foule of faith. For hee fpeakes not ©f internal! chari- 
tie, which lodgeth in the heart , but of externall works, 
which are outwardly vifible and apparent unto men, and 
cannot bee the life, but are the fruits and effe(fts of faith. 
For that which iswithout and externall, cannot bee the 
lifcorfoule of that which is within andinternall ; nay, it 
felfe hath from within rtll the life that it hath ; and if it re- 
ceive not life from within, it is altogether dead. Works 
therefore being outward, andifiaing fromwithini if they 
bee true, can in no good conftrudlionbeefaid to beethe life 
of faith which is within, but to be the ilTues and produ(fti- 
ons of faith from which they fpring. Bcfides, the word 
ufcd by the Apoftle doth fignifie the breathy and ib the 
comparifon runneth plaine j Asthe body of a living crea- 
ture. 



James i.tlS. 
Seii.io. 



44 



Poptfh Ob jeUions prevented. 



James 
Rhem. 
loe. 



a. 42. 



ture, if it breath not, is dead : fo faith, if it bring forth no 
works, is dead : For breathing is an efFe6^ of a living body, 
and working is the proper efFe6^ of a living- faith. If wee 
ipeake of faith, as it is outwardly profeffed to men, works 
which may bee difcerned by the eyes of men, not charitie 
which IS the inward afte61:ionofthe heartjare they that give 
name, and gaine credit to profeffion. Charioie is an hand 
orinrtrument whereby faith worketli : works are fruits, ef- 
feds, demonftrations of the inward life of faith: and that 
which gives name and being to our externallprofeffion, is a 
pure , blameleffe , upright converfation , fruitful! in good 
works. If we'lpeake of faith, a dead faith maybe compared 
to a dead bodys altc^ether voyd of fpirituall quickening : 
but a lively faith cannot fitly be refembled to a living body, 
but rather to the life of the body : becaule faith is not that 
which is quickened by charitie, or the works of charitie,bnt 
that which quickeneth. Faith is the firft whedein the ck>ck 
that moveth all the ref^ : Faith f^irreth upj and dirc6>eth all 
other graces of the foule in their operations, whofe f^rength 
encrealeth according to the lively-hood, vigour, and en- 
creafe of faith. 

How then faith the Apoftle, That faith is ferfeSted by 
vfiorks ? As wee judge of the caufe by the eflec>s, and by 
the proportion of the effefls, the efficacie and force of the 
caufe may l^eme to bee encreafed or diminiflied. Everie 
thing is acknowledged to bee perfecl when it worketh, 
and is efieem.ed fomuch the niore perfe<5t, by how mucfi 
the more itworkethj as wee fay the goodnefle of a tree is 
perfed , when it hath brought forth fome excellent good 
fruit. ThusPhilolbphers teach, that the forme is not per- 
fe6l, when it is confidered as the firft a6V, but when it is 
taken as the fecond act : for by working it putteth forth 
its force, and declareth it felfe. And fo faith is perfected by 
works, not that the nature of faith receiveth comple- 
ment or perfe6lion from works , but beciufe it doth de- 
clare and manifeft it felfe by love and Woodworks, and is 
eficemed. by ^.much the more perfe(fl:, as the works !«»- 

duced 



Juftifjwg Faith cannot be mthout Love. 



45 



Jarr.2.20. 
Jfim.2 ig. 
Afts 8.21. , 
•Luk.8.i4. 



duced arc the more excellent. Yea, as the exercife of out- / 
ward mcrrfDcrs increafeth internall vigour and ftrength, 
and refrefheth the fpirits by which wee move ; fo doth 
the exercife of grace and vercue rightly imployed perfect 
faith, not imparting the perfedion of works unto it, but 
ftirringup, exercifing, and intending its owne vigour and 
perfection. Senie and motion is the effed, notthecaufeof 
life in the body ; but yet the body without them is dead, 
andperfedliedby them. Works are the effe(5ls, not the life 
of faith J but faith without works is dead, and by works it k 
perfected. 

§. g. Thercisafained and dead faith ; a faith whereby 
the Devils are faid tobeleeve, ^nd fuch whofe hearts art 
not upright : a faith which refteth barely in the under- 
ftanding, orwhichfleightly affeCteth the heart, but is not 
rooted , beares not foveraigntie ; a faith fubordinate to 
vaine glorie, or covetous defires, which the world deflroy- 
eth: andthisfaith, as it is ineSfeCtuall to feafon the affe- 
ctions thorowout, and incite to the fincere uniforme adls 
of love, fb it is unavailable to Juftification. There is a 
faith unfaincd, well-rooted, Ibveraigne, whereby wee be- 
leevetorighteoufnefle, by which the fjeart is p fir ified, and 
(^hrffi dwelleth in lis : which is/^tf vMoriC) i^heyehy -wee 
overcome the world: and this faith voorketh hy love^ and 
cannot but worke. Heethat beleeveth in this fort loveth 
freely, and cannot but love, not through defeCtof libertie, 
but through the nature of faith, exciting the beleever to 
will to love, not to love if hee will. Faith and love confi- 
dered, ashabitsof therenewedfoule, and branches of in- 
herent holineffe, have their original! from the Spirit of re- 
generation, and bee diftinft graces infufed together. The 
deeds of charitie are the proper a6ts or exercifes of the 
grace of charitie, from which they iffue, as branches from 
the ftock> and fruit from the tree : nor can wee properly 
fay, that fuch works flow from faith, as the fruit doth 
from the root; feeing charitie is no branch offaith, buta 
diftinCl grace of the renewing Spirit, which beareth its 

proper 



I Tim T.5. 
ASs 15.9. 
Gal.3.10. 

iJoh.5-4- 
fuHifjin^ faith 
cannot Le Tvitbout 
Itve, 



Tar deJtiU. 
lib. I. caji.i^. 



J 



4(J 



Juflifymg Faith cmnot be without Love* 



T Joh.J.i. 

\ Cor. 5.17. 
■2 Pec 1.4. 



*GaT.2io. 
E.om.11 17. 
Joh.r5.ij2. 
a I Joh 4.I5. 

b Rom 1. 17. 



c i]o[i.a.S,io. 



I Joh. 4.19. 



proper and diftinft fniic. Eutfuch a5ls are faidto be -of 
faith, becaufe the do6lrine of faith enjoyneth them , the 
vertueof faith inclines the Ibule unto them, movethchari- 
tie unto the exercife of them, and dire6leth and qiiickeneth 
the aif^sthemfelves, without which they would belivclefle 
and out of fquare. Faith doth beget lovo. s not that one 
habit doth beget another, but that faith doth excite men 
to the works of charitie. Thus the habits of faith and 
love be coupled ininfudon; thecxercife of faith and love 
bee infeparably conjoyned ; and the adls of love bee the t£- 
fe61:s of faith. 

Everie one that hcleeveth is borne of God ; he that is in- 
grafted into Chrift by faith is a fiew creature, and made 
partaker of the divine nature : But bee that is borne of 
God, is endued with the grace of love. The lively meni- 
bers of Chrifi- Jefus , which receive from him the Tap of 
grace, cannot be utterly deftitute of true charitie: * But all 
true Beleevers are living members of Chrift Jefus. -aHee 
thatbeleeveth, abideth in God, and God in him: but in 
whom God abideth, in him is love, b Everie true Beleever 
doth live fpirituaily, and where true faith is, there is true 
life: but hee that lives fpirituaily, and is tranflated from 
death to life, is alfo endued with the grace of love. He that 
beleevsth is in the light ^ and abideth therein : <^ but no 
manisin the light, who loveth not. Faith and Hope be in- 
feparable : but it cannot bee, but wee Ihould love thofe 
things, which wee already know, embrace, tafie, and hope 
to be fingularly good. Faith receiveth and refteth upon the 
mercieofGod, as ourfbveraigneGood: b ut it is not pofli- 
ble for a man truly to know and embrace the chiefeft good, 
and yet to with-hold affe6>ion from the Jove of it. It is 
faith, which fetting God before us iiich an one as he is, wife, 
mightie, juli, merciful], loving and gracious towards us, en- 
amoureth ourhearts, and Ilirreth in us affections correlpon- 
dent to his grace: neither is there anyfparke of true love, 
which is not kindled by this meanes. fVee love Gody be- 
caufe he loveth us firfi : but nothing can feafon andaffeft 

the 



J^fiijj^^g Patih cannot be jvzthout Love, 



47 



the heart, with the ferious confideration, and fwe^t tafte of 
Gods mercie and favour, but faith onely. In nature wee fee 
nothing can move in defire to this or that, tiiifirftit hath 
apprehended itiove'y j and ii cannot but move, whenit 
hath foundly tafted of its goodne(Te : So our affe6>ions can-t 
not ialove move to, and unite themlelves with God, till by 
faith weknow him to be an amiable objcvl for us finners to 
embrace ; and when we have (oundly and truly tailed how 
good and gracious the Lord iSi wee cannot but iove and af- 
fed him entirely. Faith is an obiequious and affianced ac- 
knowledgement of the truth of Gods promifes : but hee 
that doth after that manner acknowledge the truth of God 
in Chrift, is both inwardly affcdkd towards God, and de- 
firous to put forth the fame in all duties of holineffeand 
righteoufnefle. The doctrine o( grace, which bringeth [al- 
vatioKiteacheth m to deny ungodline^e and worldly hfflst 
andto live godly-, jufilyy andjoberly in this -prefeM world: 
which being embraced by faith, doth leaven everie facultie, 
and leafbn it in fuch fort, as the fcverall affeiStions will rea- 
dily move at the command of faith. 

' When the Apcf^le feparates faith and love, faying, If I 
hMd- nil faith y[o that I could remove monntaines, and had 
not love, itfrofiteth mee nothtng : hee Ij-seakes of that per- 
fwafion and confidence in the extraordinacie promiies of 
God, whereby the parties endued therewith, were enabled 
to doe miracles. And the word, v^//,notethmanifefllythe 
higheft degree of doing miracles. That whereas Ibme had 
faith to doe fome miracles, and not other Ibme : the A- 
poftle flieweth , that if hee had fuch a miraculous faith, 
that he could doe all miracles,and have not love.it were no- 
thing. This iscleare, in that the Apoftle reckoneth faith 
miraculous amongft the gifts of the Spirit, in the prece- 
dent Chapter: and by the example or inftance of moving 
mouotaines, which our Saviour noteth as a mafter-miracle 
amongfl: others. Helaith, If I had Allk»oTvledg-ei notun- 
derdandingitfimplyand abfolutely, of all kjfidj of kj^otv- 
ledge^. but of the gift of knowledge : and ibby^o^// faith, 

hee 



iitus z.iT^i: 



Popijb oble^hns 
prevented- 
1 Cor, 13.2, 
Bellar. dtjupf. 
lib I ca>>.x%. 
Rbtm >Awot. in 



I Cor. 12. 9. 
I Cor.Tj.2. 
Mitch .17. 20. 
hvk.ij 6. 

I Cor. 13.-,, 

Idlar. dej:fj(if. 
1:1) l.cap.t^. 
Sea. TUinde-. 



48 



Jafitfjing Faith cannot be without Love, 



•I'eUar. de fuftif. 



feemestodii"- 
pute, M^»>f rrt § . 
5. tAK^vSiintii. 



1 hee meaneth not all kinds of faith, but all faith of miracles. 
\ Univerfall prbpofitions muft bee limited according to the 
I iiibje6i: matter junleflfe we will run into manifold abfurdities. 
And that the faith hee fpeaketh of was not fitly qualified to 
Juftification, appearcth in this, that it did not command, 
but rather was fubordinate to their vaine-glorious humour. 
Looke as their confidence was greater in the power and ex- 
traordinarie promifesofGod, the more were they puffed 
up, boafting in themfelves, infulting over their brethren : 
whereas, if their affiance had beeneweli fettled upon the 
mercie of God in Chrift, and had rightly fpread it felfe to 
the feverall branches of holy truth ; it would have enclined, 
yea, conftrained them to ferve one another in love,and bend 
their gifts to the edification of their brethren ; which, whi- 
leil they doe not, bur rather turne their gifts to thelervice 
of their lufts,andthediflionourofGod, it is evident they 
belecved not unto righteoufnefle. 

But by what faith fliould thefe Corinthiam have come 
to know, and rightly to value Chriftian love ? The fame 
by which they wrought wonders, or ibme other .^ If the 
fame, » then faith is true, though feparated from love. If 
fome other, the Apoftle in all congruitie (hould firft feve 
exhorted them to embrace it; otherwiieheehad commen- 
ded the beautie of Chriftian lovebut unto blind men. Be- 
fides, if it bee fome other , then by that grace of faith, 
whereby they refted upon the extraordinarie promiie and 
power of God, they had never beene able to difcerne be- 
twixt good and evill, orto behold the worth anddfgnitie 
of Chriftian love and kindnefte, though never fo well roo- 
ted in their hearts. To this queftionit is diretSlly anfwe- 
red , That the exercife of love was to bee raifed in thefe 
Corinthians hearts by faith, for common eflencc and qua- 
lities the fame with that whereby they wrought miracles; 
but by the fame faith rightly fet, deeply rooted , taking 
better in the heart, diffufing its vertue into the feverall fa- 
culties , fprcading it felfe unifbrmely unto the particular 
branches of Chriftian duties, diredling the aft''e61:ions unto 

Ipirituall 



Juftifjing Faith cannot he without Love. 



4P 



Ipirituall obje<fts , and fixing them fafteft upon fijch as it / 
adjudgeth beft , and moft effeAuall to the tdi^y'm^ of 
themfelvcs and others. In juftifying faith two things 
are to bee confidered ; the common nature or (iibftancej 
and the fpecificail nature, plantation and foveraigntie. For 
faith hiitoricall and juftifying agree in this, that both the 
one and the other is an aflent to divine truths, grounded 
upon the authoritie of therevealer: Faith temporarie and 
juftifying agree in this, that they receive the Word, and 
reft upon the mercies of God : but in radication , fove- 
raigntie, and working, and fo in Ipeciall nature, faving faith 
differerh from other kinds. The Iced which fell by the high 
way fide, in ftony ground, among thornes,and in good foile, 
was one and the iame : and in moft of thefe grounds it 
tooke, not alike in all, kindly in the good foyle alone. The 
common nature of faith is to receive the Word ; which 
fome receive by bare aflent of underftanding ; others by 
(leight and fuperficiall confidence which vanifheth away : 
but the do61:rine of life taketh kindly in the honeft and 
good heart, which embraceth it foundly with unfained and 
well-rooted affiance. Juftifying faith is difcerned fi^om the 
other kinds, not by this , that it receiveth the promifes 
which they doe not : but it receiveth them in another 
manner and degree, with firmer radication in the heart, 
which is the feat of the affe<51:ions,that it might feafon them, 
and fubje(9: earthly defires to the affedlation of heavenly 
things. 

Amongft tbechiefe Rulers of the y^jr^J", many beUeved 
in C^y//?,laith the Evangelift, who yet confejfed him ^ot, be-- 
catife of the pharijeesy lefl they fhouid be cafi out of the Sy- 
nagogue. But John (bmetime following the Hebrew phrafe 
ufeth the terme ofbekeving in Qhrifi^or beleeving Chrifi\ 
applying it to them, who by the miracles of Chrift, and 
his manifeft declaration of the truth , were convi6>ed in 
conlcienceto acknowledge him to bee of God, or didbe- 
leeve in him for a time, but did not in finccritie fubmic 
themfelvcs unto him. And thus it might bee faid of feme 

E of 



Joht4.42. 

Cellar, dtju^if. 
till, t, cap. f^. 
§.fritH». 



Joh.2.2J.»». 



50 



Jufiifjing Faith cmmt be mthout Love. 



joh.12.43. 

3oh.J.44. 



I joh.4.18. 
I joh.j.4. 



Jefi.j.i. and 7. 
50,51. andi^.jS. 
Luk,23.yr. 

7a,7i. 



of thole chiefe Rulers, that they beleeved in Chrift, that 
isj were perfwaded in their minds that hee fpake the truth, 
but yet preferring their credit and reputation with men, 
gave no regard unto it. The verie realon which the Evan- 
gelift gives, why they did not confefle Chrift , makes it 
manifeft, that their faith was not true and lively rooted in 
the heart. For (faith he) they loved the -^raife of men more 
than thepraife of God : which who fo doth, his faith is not 
become fuch as layes fure hold on the promifes of life. How 
canyee beleeve-iUvhich receive honour one of another^ and 
feekenot the honour -which commethfrem Godonely ? They 
might have Ibme beginnings and difpofitions to true faith, 
but verie weake and feeble ; and they might bee endued 
with fome degree of love, but weake and feeble as their 
faith was. Their faith and love was too much tyed and 
entangled in the nets and fnares of carnal! relpe6ls : bur,ad- 
mitting the leaft degree of faith, there is no ground toaf- 
firme they had no love. Indeed /)^r/<?^ love cafleth om aU 
fearei and ^zx^^St faith overcommeth therforldy andbree- 
deth perfect love : but there is a beginning of faith and love, 
which being yet little and weake, and having not zs yet 
over-maftered all worldly and carnall refpeds , is for a 
time timorous and fearefuUto confefle Chrift, but grow- 
ethto ftrength by little and little, tillit reiblve to cleave 
to him with lofle of all other things. Such was the faith 
of Nicodemm , and Jofe^h oF Arimathea , yea j of the 
Apoftles themfelves, Veter not excepted, who were ever 
and anon affrighted, and at his laft fufferings, fome denied, 
all fbriboke our Saviour and fled. And thus it may bee 
thefe Rulers beleeved, but their faith was verie weake, and 
the love was according to their faith ; til! encreafe of 
faith brought forth further ftrength of love, and they had 
learned by the ftrength of faith and love to preferre the 
fervice of Chrift before all the glorie of the world, and 
to adhere to the glorie that comes from God alone, asfb 
much better than that wee receive of men, that the latter 
did feeme as nothing in comparifon of the former. That 

which 



Jnflifjing Faith cannot be without Love. 



51 



which is added by the Evangelifl'j that they durft not con- 
fefle him , doth no more derogate from their love , than 
from their faith : for if they had beleeved firmely with 
the heavi ufito righteoHfnejJe, they had csnfejfedwith the 
mouth unto falvatiott : and in that they confefled not the 
truth with their mouths , it argueth they beleeved but 
weakly with their hearts. For the faith which bringeth 
forth fincere confeffion is coupled with love , but con- 
fcffion it felfe is an effect of faith. / beleeved , and 
therefore have I jpoken : rvee alfo beleeve^ and therefore 
jfeake. 

The man that came to the wedding, not having on the 
wedding garment , had faith (as our Adveriaries obje6i) 
but wanted charitie and good works. How may it ap- 
peare that hee had faith ? Forfooth, becaufe hee was ad- 
mitted to that Table, which are the Sacraments. Not to 
queftion that expofitionfor the prefent, was no man ever 
admitted to the Sacraments , that made (hew of faith, 
when indeed hee had none? Many hypocrites are in the 
Church , that have not fo much as a perfwafion of tht j 
truth of the Scripture, and fo abfolutely want their mar- 
riage garment. And men are admitted to the Sacrament 
by men, and admitted for profefsion of faith, when they 
that admit them cannot tell whether they have faith or 
not. For many pretend that which is not in them, and 
with the mouth make profefsion of faith , when tbeir 
heart is barren and emptie of grace. Further, this man 
might affcnt unto truths divine , and acknowledge them 
as true, but not from a found and fincere ground: or hee 
might aflent unto the Articles of Chriftian Faith as true 
and good, whiJeft conddered onely in themfclves, without 
oppoiition of fuch matters as hee much valued : and fuch 
beleefc being unfound , {hallow , fubordinate to earthly 
pleafures or commodities, may bee and is feparat;ed from 
love ; but it is not that faith wee Ipeakeof. The general! 
meaning of the Parable feemes to bee no more but this, 
that many men thruiUnto the Church, who, when the day 

E 2 of 



Rom.Toio. 



I Cor.4.13. 



Matth.a2.11. 
'ScBar. ubifu^ra^ 
§ • quarvtmt 



52 



Japfiing Faith cmmt he without Love, 



Gal.5.(5. 



Rom.13.14. 

Gal3.2<?j27. 



Col.3.9,10. 

EpheC4.i4. 

C0I.312. 

Ephcf.6.iJ,i6. 



Matt^l.^^TT. 
J?i«». x^nnot. in 
Maxth, %<!,.%. J. 



\of triall comesj will bee found to have nointereft to the 
Kir^dome of Heaven. What if the wedding garment bee 
charitie ? this doth hurt us nothing, unleffe it could bee 
proved, (which can never bee) that this man had juftifying 
faith. Forhee wanted the wedding garment, chariticj be- 
caufe hec wanted faith : and if hee had becne endued with 
the onQyfc. faith , hee fhould alio have had the other, 
fc. love : far faith ivorketh by love. But the wedding gar- 
ment is as well faith as iove» It is indeed Chriit jeftis him- 
felfe (ofwhom the Apoftle faith) Tmyeeenthe Lord J e- 
fus. Chrift (as hee is a Juftifier of us from finne, and a 
Sanvlifierof usfrom the power of finne, rinfing away by 
the water of his Spirit, that ftaine of corruption defiling 
our nature) is that wedding garment : and fo putting on 
Chrift, wee put on the new man, which accordingto Cjod is 
created in righteonfne^e and true holineffe : Now wee put 
on Chrift, when we doe by an affianced knowledge, and by 
confequcnt affe6Hons come more and more to bee united 
with him. The firft and radicall union is made by faith on- 
ly, which layeth hold on God in Chrift, as our mercifull 
j God, whofe anger before threatned us for fin. The fecon- 
darie union, whereby the ibule cleaveth more and more 
unto Godjis by meanes of the affedHons ; by love our hearts 
cleave unto him, by hope, joy, high eftimation of him: 
whom though we have not iecne, we love: but this prefup- 
pofeth the former. 

The five foolifti Virgins (they fay) were part of the 
Kingdome of God , and had faith, but wanted works. 
They were indeed part of the Kingdome in profeflSon, 
but not in ele6lion. They had a forme or fliew of faith:, 
but true juftifying faith they never knew. And as their 
faith was, fuch were their works. For it appeareth that 
they had oyle in their lamps, and that their lamps were 
lighted , although by long tarrying of the Bridegroome, 
they were afterwards quenched. Our Adverfaries teach, 
thatthefe Virgins had afpired to more thanordinarie per- 
fcdion in the Church : and had they gotten this without 
good 



Jufitfying Faith cannot bemthoutLove, 



55 



good works ? It is a ftrange perfed^ioHthat can be attained 
without all good d&tds (piricualJ orcorporalK But they 
continued not (they williay) in their former charitie, when 
ytt they prefumed (irongly on the aflurance of their falva- 
tion,asis apparent by their confident demanding to be let 
in : for they (aid, Lord) Lor di o^en unto tu. Indeed they 
never had either true faith or love, and therefore could not 
continue therein. For if ever they hadbeene partakers of 
either in truth, they would have perfevered in both unto the 
end : and where the one is utterly wanting, the other never 
was. Their earneft demanding to be let in, (hewes rather 
their defire than their hope : and yet how many hope pre- 
fumptuoufly without true (&ith'm Chrift? Faith is groun- 
ded upon the word of God, and the thing which itbelee- 
veth, is that which the Lord hath {aid. Wbatfoever wee 
conceive of God befides his Word, it is imagination, opi- 
nion, prefumption,but faith it is not. But the word of God . 
denounceth deftruftion to the workers of iniquitie, to the 
fruitlefle and barren fig-tree : how can it then be laid, that 
they that worke iniquitie, that bring forth no good fruit, 
have faith to beleeve afluredly that they fliall bee laved ? 
The Apoftle makes mention oflbme, who profefled that 
they knew God, bnt voere indeed anhleevers, as the Vulgar 
reads it. And wee know it is often threatncd in the Pro- 
phets, that the wicked fl^aUcrj, and not be heard: call in 
feare, but not in faith : for they that in faith call upon the 
nameofthe Lordjhallbefaved. 

But the Apoftle J^wffx (as they objeft) fuppoleth plain- 
ly, that a man may have faith without good works , that 
is, without charitie, laying : JVhat /hall it profit, if a man 
fay he hath faith ^and hath no works ? ^anfakhfave him f 
Wherein they take for granted what can never bee pro- 
ved, that the Apoftle takes works for charitie. Doe they 
chinke that they againft whom the Apoftle writes, would 
grant that they were without the love of God ? the 
Gnofiicks were never lb abfurd. But the queftion was, 
whether a man that profefled JefusCbrift to bee the Savi- 

E ^ our 



Rom.xo.8jif. 



Titus i.i^. 

Pro V. 1.1 8. 
Rom.10.15. 



James 2.14. 
'ieUar.ubifupra. 



54 



Jufiifjing Faith cannot be mthout Love. 



Jam .2. 14. 



Jam. a. 18. 
Jairh2.r5.- 



Jam. 2. 20. 



Jam.ttSOjji. 



Heb.ir.i?. 



Jam.t.19. 



onr of the world, was not by this favedj how \t^di\y 
ibever hec demeaned himfelfe? And it is apparent by 
the Text , that the ApoftJe ipeakes of an hiftoricalJ, 
dead faith , a faith in profefTion ; as much differing from 
that whereto S. T^«/ afcribeth nghtecufncflejas a live man 
doth from a dead, or a body endued with life and motion, 
from a painted or carved image. Therefore hee compares 
it to- the good words of him that wifheth well to the 
poore man, but doth nothing at all for him. As therefore 
it is no true charitie which profeffcth good will to help, 
and helpeth not : fb it is no true faith, which is levered 
from good works. To this tendeth his queftion , What 
avatleth it, though a man [ay that hee hath faith ? and 
his other demand, 5^tfw me thy faith ? Theuttermoft hee 
extendeth it to by inftance , is a meere hittoricall faith, 
ThoH hleeveH that there ii one God. His purpole is to 
{hew, that faith, if it bee truly profeflfed, hath taken root 
within, from whence Ipringby obedience the fruits of all 
good works ; and if it give not forth it it\^^ by good works, 
it is a dead, no true and living faith. The men againft 
whom hee dilputes did make profeffion of juftifying faith; 
but the Apoftle brings the true, lively, and working faith of 
cx^^r^^ww,asoppofitetothatidle, dead, and breath-lefle 
faith profefled by them ; and faying, wat not Abraham our 
Father jufiified hyvfork^i when hee offered his SonneKzic 
upon the altar? hee meaneth no more, than if hee had 
thus Ipoken : If zAbraham had faid (as they did, whole 
emptie faith he di(approves)I have faith,but had not proved 
his fayings true by his deeds, or readinefle to oflfer up his 
onely Sonne when God commanded him (for actually hee 
did not offer him) hee had not beene jaftified beforeGcd. 
Why ? becaufe hee had not beleeved in fuchfbrt as Taul 
meant, when he faith; *By faith Abraham offered up Ifiac 
when he was tryedy which was the afl of his faith, as the 
Text exprcfly noteth. 

Yea, further to (hew the vanitie of them that boafted 
of juftifying faiths becaufe they profefTed faith in God, hee 

addeth ; 



Jujlifying Faith cannot be mthout Love. 



55 



addeth; The Devils beleevealfo and. tremble: (hewing, 
that the Devils goe h farre as tobeleeve the truth of God, 
yea,fui:therj ftx they tremble ; and therefore the faith pro- 
feffedinword bythofe boafters, cannot bee the fame with 
that which the Scripture nameth for a juftifying faith. 
They cannot (huffle this over by telling us, that Chrirtian 
faith, when it is naked and void of good works, may well 
bee likened unto the Devils faith in two points. Firft, in 
both of them there is a perfect knowledge of all things re- 
vealed. Secondly, this knowledge (hall not fteadthem a- 
ny whit. But in many things they differ ; but this one i% 
principal!. That Chriftians, out of a godly and devout af- 
fection, doe willingly fubmit their underftanding to the 
rules of faith. But the Devill, againft his will, beleeves 
all that God hath revealed. This i^ but a poore evafion ; 
forif they will heare their brethren oil^emes, they tell 
them plainly, that Saint James doubted not to call a dead 
faith without works, the faith not of Chriftians, but of 
Devils, TheApoftle then doth not liken Chriftian jufti- 
fying faith to the faith of Devils in fome points onely, but 
proves the dead faith profefTed by fome, not to bee true 
and faving faith indeed, becaufe the Devils beleevein that 
manner. The firfl: point wherein the faith of Chriftians 
and of Devils is faid to agree, comprehendeth thefulnefle 
and perfe(ftion of that which they call Catholike, or Chri- 
ftian Faith, which confifteth in beleeving all t6 bee true 
that God bath revealed. No more is there in <i/^brahams 
faith, if weeconfidertbe aft of faiths, and no lefTe in the 
Devill, and the fame in everie Catholike Chriftian , ac- 
cording to their doftrine. That which is added to ftiew 
the difference betwixt the faith of Chriftians and the faith 
of Devils, is little to the purpofe. For it is not taken from 
the nature of faith it ielfe, but from thofe things which to 
faith are meerely accidentall. The godly and devout af- 
feftion, and willing fubmiftionto the rules of faith, which 
is in Chriftians, being an act of charitie, and nor of faith, 
differcnceth not true faith in it Ielfe from the faith of Hy- 

E 4 pocrites, 



"Cellar, dtfufi. 
lib, I, cap.i^, §. 
'-^dtertium, 
^- 3. againft 
Per^ns refoiined 
Catholike, 
4- point, qu. 
fVhethtrfahh 
may be vpithcut 
charitie. 



Rhem. ^Annet. in 
MAtth.i'^.SeS.l. 



%6 



Ji*^ifying Faith cannot hemthout Lne, 



ySeUar 
W.I. 

Ifitemi 



.dejuftif. 



\ pocritesj but diftinguifbeth faith and charitie from faith 
\oneIy. And thus our adverfaries make the Devilla Ca- 
tholike againft his will. Or if they will lay, that true 
Chriftian faith doth aIvvayesa(Suai]yand neceflarily imply 
this godly affection, and willing fubmiflion of underftan- 
ding to the rules of faith, thenbecaufe this cannot be with- 
out charitie* let them fay, as the truth is, that true Chrifti- 
an faith cannot be ieparated from love and good works. It 
is impertinent to diipure, whether the faith of Devils bee 
naturall, coa6^, and diihoneft ; or the faith of wicked men 
fupernaturall, volutitarie, and honeft, as if thefe things di- 
ftinguifhed the faith c^ ungodly men from the faith of De- 
vils. Forifthemajeftieof Gods infallible truth comnfiand 
the a (Tent of Devils to that which they love not, doth not 
theiame caufe alfo prevaile with ungodly men, who beare 
noaffedHonto God or goodnelTe? And as for the honerty 
ordiOioneftyofiheadt, there can no circumftance bee na- 
med, why it fhould be honeft in wicked men,and diflioneft 
inthe Devils : foritis fearcfully abufed in both. Andif it 
be granted, that faith without works or grace, is in men the 
gift of God, but the faith of Devils not fo; this argues a 
difference onely in the caufe, not in the cfience, nature, or 
qualitie. And though it be his gift, yet being without grace 
and charitie, and without thefe of necefiitie as unfruitfull 
as the faith of Devils (both which our adverfaries grant) it 
I is no more availeable to make a Chriltian, than the faith of 
Devils is. 

It is further obje6led, if faith cannot be without charitie, 
then faith alone doth not juftifie. This foiloweth not, for 
it is one thing to fay, faith alone dc«h not jaftific, another 
that faith which jaflifieth is not alone. This fatter we yeeld 
unto, the firft wee deny. Faith alone doth piliHe, that is, 
privatively cwifidered witb^ut hope or charitie, as caufes 
concurring therewith injuftification : but this faith cannot 
really be feparated from, or negatively confidered without 
I hope and charitie. For though ic be true, that the totall 
caufe of any thing being in a£t4^e cffe6l mufk needs follow; 

yet 



1 unifying Faiih cannot be tvuhaut Love. 



57 



yec from the totall caufe wee cannot ieparate thofe things, 
together with which it hath in nature its exiftence and be- 
ing, and without which it cannot bee in a6> for the produ- 
cing of the eftec^, though they conferre nothing thereto; 
becaufethat is to deny the being of it, and to deftroytbe 
caufe. The eye alone feeth, the eare alone heareth : but it 
muft bee a living eye, and hearing eare, not feparated from 
the head, or broken oft' from the reft of the body. Faith a- 
lonejurtifies without other graces, not in regard of their 
prefence, but in regard of their co-working with faith to 
this effeft of our Juftification. It is one thing to fay, the 
eye is in the head without other lenfes, and another thing 
to fay, the eye doth fee alone, no other fenfe feeing with it. 
Livelyhood is the qualification of that faith that juftifieth j 
and works, at leaft a preparation and promptitude of heart 
to good works, is an efFe6l of faith, as immediate as Juftifi- 
cation. Sothen faith cannot be without love, and yet wee 
apprehend not thepromifes ofeternall life by works, but 
by faith alone ; although truly they cannot be apprehended 
by parties deftitute of works, at leaft of fincere refolution 
CO walke in obedience. Nor doth faith alone app.-ehend 
the truth, or derive the benefit of divine promiles to our 
ielves, but by it alone (though accompanied with aJl other 
fanfHfying graces, and attended with the whole traine of 
good works) weexpe6i:and pray the promiies may be ful- 
filled, not for our (akes, or for any righteoufneflc wee have 
in us, or can hope for in this life, but onely for the merit of 
Chrirt, by his fole mediation and interceffion. In briefc, 
the faith which juftificth is operative, attended with good 
works ofall forts, accompanied with all graces of the Spi- 
rit : but wee live by k, &s it unites ns to the Lord of life ; 
yea, by it alone, not by it and other partsof grace, in at 
much as by it wee truftinGods mercies offered inChrift, 
wholly relying on them, not partly oo them, and partly on 
i our works or righteoufocife. 

CHAP. 



58 



what deSirinestire calkdmMers of Faith, 



f 



fVhat doUrtfies 
are called matters 
of Faith. 



JtMifyi«if*ith 
it r*e ^ayei confi- 
dered. 



CHAP. V. 

'Of th^gemrall objeU or matter of 
Faith jtiftifymg, 

§. r. 11 yf Atters of faith ftridUy and properly thofe are 
X\jL called, which perrainc to the nature and eflence 
of faith, firft and by themfelves ; as are the points of faith 
contained in the Gofpel , the ignorance whereof is dam- 
nable, andthe deniall heretical!. But in a more large ac- 
ceptation, all truth,revealcdby God in his holy Word, is a 
matter of faith, and to beebeleeved as God hath revealed 
it. Hence is that rule of Divines, There are many integrall 
parts in the word of God, which are (aid to bee of the 
word of faith, but not properly a matter of faith. For 
there are many hiftoricall, domefticall, and particular 
matters fet downe for example, not properly for faith : 
which wee beleeve , not bccaufe they pertaine to faving 
^ith, but for that they appertaineto the Word written 
by the Spirit of God. And not much unlike hereunto is 
that diftin6tion , that fomc things are neceflarie to bee 
beleevedtofalvation by themfelves, andthe authoritie of 
the Scriptures , as the fubftantiall points of faith and 
manners; others for the authoritie of the Scripture onely, 
as thofe which are not (b neceflarie : and fome neither 
by themfelves, nor the authoritie of the Scripture, as are 
things in themfelves indifferent , fo long as by circum- 
ftance they be not repugnant to faith,truth, love, and edifi- 
cation. 

§. 1. Juflifying faith is confidered , either according 
to its moft eminent efFe^,which is to juflifie ; or according 
to its full and adequate a6^. For that faith which juftifieth, 
doth embrace the Commandements, beleeve the threat- 
nings , looke to all the promifes of God made in Jefus 
Chrift concerning this life or the life to come , and re- 
ceive the good_xhings promifed: itfuftaineth inadverfi- 

ties. 



Jujiifjing Faith is two wajes considered. 



59 



ties, worketh by love as an inftrumenc conjoyned with 
itjguideth all our aitions, and giveth firme affent un- 
to everie article of faith, and everie part of divine truth; 
but as it jufiifietb, it isconverfant about Chrift obeying 
to death, that we may find rightequfncfle and forgivenefle 
of finnes to life in him ; or it cleaveth unto Gods mercies 
manifefted in that eternall facrifice, ahvayes breathing 
out- life to men, renouncing all truft and confidence, 
even in fuch graces as wee have received from God. The 
trtith, mercie, fidelitie, and power of God, with all 
benefits paft and to come, which it pleafeth God to be- 
ftow upon his people in Jefus Chrift , are the matter 
about which faith is exercifed : but as it juftifiethj Chrift 
is the full and adequate obje6l of beleefe ; as our reafona- 
ble foule doth fee in the eye, heare in the eare, digeft in 
the ftomack, but doth not realbn as it doth thefe things, 
butonely as it conceiveth and difcourlcth within us. So 
that, according to the twofold confideration of juftify- 
ing faith, the objedl: of it is twofold. Generall and Spe- 
ciall. I. The Generall obje6l is the whole truth of God 
revealed unto us in his Word, containing all Hiftories, 
Doctrines, CommandsjThreatnings, Promifes of what 
kind feever. True faith refpefts all this, and onely this. 
Onely this, becaufe divine revelations onely be of certaine 
and infallible truth, which cannot deceive, and whereunto 
men canfafely give unlimited and abfolute credit : All this, 
becaufe everie part of divine inlpired truth is worthy of all 
beleefeand reverence: and fo there is nothing contained 
in Scriptures, threatning, promife, precept, admoni- 
tion, exhortation, prophefie , or hiftorie, which falls not 
,in fbme degree or other within the compaife of laving 
Faith. 

God who cannot lye, hath propounded to men for 
truth, and to be beleeved, whatfoever is delivered in Scrip- 
tures, and fo-it is a matter of faith; but fo farre forth 
onely, as it is intended to bee held for true by the Holy 
Ghoft, the Authour of the Scripture. There is no doubt 

to 




The obje5 of 
juHifyingfeith 
two- fold. 
I. Generall. 



Tm& faith refpe- 
<a£Ch the whole 
word of God, 



6o The hiftoricall parti as doBrine of creati9n^&c. 



Gcr.ef.45.i3i. 



2Reg.i8?o. 
arid tj>.43^- 



§. 3. 

X, The hiiloricatt 
pandas the t^o- 
Rtineofth' 



Heb.ii.f» 



TtwidevC- 



tobccmade, but whatfoeveris regiftred in the Hiftoricall 
Bookes of holy Scripture by way of report, is to bee taken 
for true in refped ot ftoriCj that wee may not doubt whe- 
ther thole things were done or faid, whicbare there repor- 
ted to be done or faid: But in thefe bookes wee havefome 
worthy fpeeches of godly men, and fome lewd and blaiphe- 
mous words of proFane and wretched men. The former are 
to be acknowledged for the truth of Godeverieway: the 
latter muft be acknowledged to bee truly reported. As for 
example Mt is true that J^c-oA uttered thofe prophefies of 
the twelve Patriarks his Tons, and it is alfotrue, thatthofe 
prophefies of his were the verie truth of God. It is as true, 
that Rahjhakeh delivered thole blafphemous threatnings 
againft the Lord and his people, but it is not true that thole 
words came from God, ^s Jacobs did; lb Jacohwcre to 
betaken aseverie way true, truly related, and the truth of 
God ; %ab(hakehs onely as truly reported from his mouth, 
but in themlelvcs blafphemous. 

§. 5. Thus faith yeeldeth firme and abfolutc aflent to 
all divine hiftories, as containing a certaine and liire rela- 
tion of thole things whereof they intreat, and towhatlb- 
ever came from God^as everie way true,and to be received: 
nor doth itbately aflent to the thing fpoken as true, but 
tBOveth and ftirreth afFe6lions according as the nature of 
the thing beleeved fliould and ought to worke. Through 
\ faith wee underftand that the worlds vpere framed bj the 
M>«'r<^o/(j(?^,not barely giving credit to Afofesrelmon tou- 
ching the creation of the world) but looking unto the wil- 
dome, goodnefle, and power of God, whereby the heart 
is moved to feare, reverence, and fubmilTion. That faith 
which is deeply faftened in the heart, and beholdeth the 
true God, the Creatour and Governour of ail things, as his 
power, bountie, and underftanding, {hineth in his works; 
that faith enciteth tohumilitie, reverence, love, and wor- 
IhipofGod. Through faith wee underftand that God hath 
protected, and preferved, and bleffed his people from time 
to time; afflicted them when they wentaftray, delivered 

them 



Promifes concerning Sm6iif cation. 



61 



tMaismi/irie liy 
[inne. 



Jlfyfteries efgoi- 
linfjfe. 



them oat of the hands of their perfecutors when they 
humbled thcmfelves and fought unto him , inclined the 
hearts of their enemies to fhew them favour, confounded 
thofe that ro(e up againft themj and mercifully performed 
all his promifes in the fitteftfeafon : andwhercthis firme 
beJeefe is planted, it begetteth a conftant and vvell-advifed 
refolution to draw neere to God, and cleave to him in all 
conditions, profperitieandadverfitie, fickneflc and health, 
freedome and trouble, when religion is favoured, and when 
it is perfecuted : becaufe falvation is of the Lord, heewill P^J-7J«24.a7' 
guidehis people by counfell, and afterward receive them 
lO giorie, but they that are farre from God (hall perifli, 
they that goe a whoring from him fliall bee deftroyed. 
What the Scripture teachethof therailerieofallmen by 
{inne, thevanitieof mind,and corruption of nature, that 
faith receiyeth ; and thence followeth lelfe-deniall and re- 
nunciation of aUtrnft in worldly meanes. The high and 
profound myfteries of godlinefle, which the natpraUman 
perceiveth not , accounreth fboliftmefle, f^ith embraceth 
with admiration, joy, delight, and affeilion^dwerable to 
[he nature of the do^rine into which we are delivered. Be- 
leefe of Gqds power, wifdome, grace, love, and mercie ma*t 
nifeftedin JefusChrift, doth fr^me the image of God or 
Chrift in our minds, andpropoleth it as a vilible patterne 
for our imitation in all our vvorks,thoughts, and relblutions, 
and ftirreth up to works ofpictie, juftice, mercie, long-fuf- 
fering,and the like. 

§. 4. Befides the promife of forgivenefle of finnes, in 
and through the bloud of Chrift , there bee many other 
precious and rich promifes, fpirituill and temporail, con- 
cerning this and the \i(Q. to come : all which, as procee- 
ding from the fame fpuntaine of truth , faith doth reft 
upcm and embrace , and that fb much the farter , . as the 
promifes bee more excellent. There is amutuall relation 
betwixt God promifing any good bleffing in Chrift, and 
the faithftjil foule putting forth it itVct to embrace grace 
offered. For faith hath not onely tycsy by which it dotb 

fee 



1 The promifes 
cowernt'itg 



6z 



Thefromifes concerning SanBificamn. 



a Cor.i.jc 



'SanSificatfon. 



Jercm. 31.40. 
Ezek 3615,27. 



Phil.T.5. 
T Cor.i.R. 

a Tim. 1. 12. 



fee the good promi fed, but hands wherewith it doth lay 
hold upon the good things beftowed: and the more ex- 
cellent the good, which is reached unto us in the word of 
promilc, is, the clofer doth faith flick unto it, the ftronger 
doth it hold it . Men are credulous in things that may con- 
cerne them in their name, goods, or life : and the more 
weightie the matter,the more earneft they be in feeking re- 
(blution, and the ftronger hope or feareof it begettetd in 
them. All the promifes of God h Tea and Ameni furein 
themfelves, certaine to thebeleever, and therefore hee can- 
not but receive them with clofer and ftronger repofe and 
adherence, the more hee doth apprehend their goodnefle 
and worth. 

Amongrt the greater and more principall promifes, 
thofe are to bee reckoned, which Gocf hath made concer- 
ning our fan6lificationby his holy Spirit, that hee will en- 
able them that beleeve to bring forth fruits of amend- 
ment, and perfe6l the good worke begun in them from 
day to day. This is the covenant which God hath made 
with his people ; IwUl^ut myfeare into their hearts y that 
thejfhall not depart from my wayes. This promile h veric 
neceflfarie tobeebeleeved : for if people be not well groun- 
ded inbeleeving that God will build them up more ftrong- 
lyfrom day today, and perfe6l the good worke in them 
which he hath begun, even to full fanftification m the feare 
of God, they fhall verie much ftagger and goeback, cold- 
ly fet upon the pra£i:iceof godlinefie, be off and on, now 
forward , now backward , not knowing how to begin , or 
to proceed in the way of holinefle. Beleefe that God will 
enable them to everie dutie hee doth require, and ftreng- 
then them againft enemies that dc^ oppofe , is a maine 
poftin the Chriftian building, an exceeding furtherance 
unto godlineifej without which they Hiall bee oft fkaken 
and difmaied. Thefe promifes be of great price : for if a' 
Chriftian were allowed to aske of God whatlbever hee 
would) next unto the pardon of his finnes, and Talvation 
of his foule , what would hee defire , but to bee afliired 

from 



Promifes concerningthings temprall. 



63 



from God that hee will eftabliili him in grace, and teach 
him the good way which hee ought to goe, that hee will 
fanilifie him in Ibule , fpirit , and body , and keepe him 
blameleffe unto the comming of our Lord Jeftis unto 
judgement? And when hee diicerneth any fuchpromile to 
bee made, it is not hard to conceive, with what deare af^ 
feflion and ftrong adherence hee doth receive it , how 
clofe hee layeth it up in his Ibule, and Iweetly feedeth J 
upon it. Thispromife 15 iweet, and beleefe thereof ftir»- 
ri tig and operative: for it hearteneth to the praftice of ! 
mortification and new obedience with great courage, 
chearefulnefTe, andftayedneffe; itquickeneth and encou^ 
rageth to pray, as neceflities ftiallgive caufe; itprefervcth 
from fainting and dilinayednefle, when ftrength is not verie 
great; and if at any time, through vveaknefle and infirmitie, 
fecuritie catch hold upon us, faith in the promile, that God 
will be our fircngth and help,is that which raifeth us againe, , 
andputteth courage into us to Hghtagainft the adverfaries 
ofourfoule. 

Many gracious and free promifes, concerning the blet 
fings of this life, arediiperled in the Word of life, which 
faith receiveth as true and certaine, becaufe they come 
from the God of truth, who is faithfull, fincere and con- 
ftant in all his promiles. GoMineffe hath the fromifes both 
of thin life andthat which is to come. Hee that jparedKot 
his orone Softy Out delivered him upjor us all: how (hall he 
not with him alfo freely give m all things ? as health, 
maintenance, credit, prolperous fuccefle in our callings and 
Jawfulldealings, deliverance our of troubles, and fuch like. 
This is the affurance that God hath gi^Vte^, even his faith- 
full promife often repeated, many wayes ratified and con- 
firmed, that hee will make competent provifion for his 
children : which is to faith better than many bils of fecu- 
ritie from men, yea, than large pofTefsions in hand for the 
prefent. The worth and goodneffe of earthly blefsings 
promifcd is apparent , fpecially when they bee given in 
love and mercie, as gifts of the covenant, tokens of free 
'^_____ grace. 



Things tem^ireH, 



Gcncf.i5.J. 
Jofi.j. 
Heb.iJ.y. 
I Tim 4.S?. 
Ro:n.8.32. 



^4 



Thethreatnings. 



§. 5.. 

J tbethieaxnings. 



Rom.iJ.4< 



grace, and byalupernatnrall providence elevated to fpi- 
tituall ufe, in which fenfe they are promifed and vouch- 
iafed unto them thatfeare God and walke in hiswayes. 
And therefore when the beleever is rightly informed, 
that God hath made any fuch promifes, hce putteth 
jfbrth the hand of faith to lay faft hold upon them , and 
boxeth them up fafe, as hisbeft and onely evidence for the 
things of this \iiz, and the fanctification of them. For 
want of this faith j many vertuous and godly nien are 
greatly daggered and perplexed, plunged into deepe un- 
comfortable dumps and tedious troubles about the things 
of this life*. But when once thefe promifes be well rivet- 
ted into, and have taken root in the heart by a lively faith, 
beleefe hereof bringeth forth contentment, comforreth in 
the multitude of perplexities, encourageth to diligence in 
our places, quickeneth in adverfities, and ftrengthens to 
the works of righteoufnefle, as knowing that to be the fureft 
way for the gaining of durable riches, and trufting more to 
the faithfull promiles of God, though above likelyhood, 
than to their owne carnall devices, though in (hew and ap- 
pearance probable. 

§. 5. As faith receiveth what God promifeth, becaufc 
God is faithfull, and the promifes of great worth and good- 
neffe : fb it beleeveth the threatnings denounced m the 
Word, not barely apprehending them as true and certaine, 
but aHb declining them as evill. For the whole Scripture 
breathed from God , and everie part thereof is Gods word, 
of infallible truth, deferving abfolute credit. God is as 
well juft as mercifull ; faithfull and true as well in his 
threats, as in his promifes, and equally tobebe'eeved in 
both, (ofarreas by his Word hee hath afluredus of both. 
Heethat beleeveth the one as hee ought, beleeveth both: 
and hee that beleeveth not both, gives found credit to nei- 
ther. Beleefe ofthe threatnings is necefTarie: For what- 
foever things are vritttn (whether precept f;, promifes, 
threatnings, examples )<?r'e y^ritten for our learning: and 
as the promifes of this life and the life to come are fliarp 

Ipurres 



The Threatnings . 



65 



ipurres tox^oicken us unto godlineflfe : ib the threatnings 
are ftrongbridles to keepe from naughtinefle. Firme aflent 
to the certaine accompliihment of divine threatnings, doth 
beget humiliation for finnc paft , and vigilancie to fhun 
finne and elcape danger: itftrengthens againftbafe, carnal! 
feareSj and the threats of men that oppofe the tratb, and 
rcviveth care toferve and pleafeGodat all times, and in 
all things. Wherefore doc the terronrs of men io much 
affright, butbccaufefleight bcleefeis given to the threat- 
nin^ of the Lord? The grace and mercieofGod belee- 
vcd breeds love of God , and confequently true feare, 
which is oppofed to lenfcleffe ftupiditie, and carnall pre- 
fumpcion , though it cafteth out fearc which proceedeth 
from unbeleefc. 

But what need Beleevers feare the threatnings, feeing 
there U no condemnation, or cauTe of fcare to them that be- 
lecve? The Apoftle faith indeed, there is no condeimtation 
to fuch : but wee cannot therefore conclude, that there is 
no caufe of fcare to them, unlefTe no other esi'iki but finall 
damnation need to bee feared. But whileflthe foule is iiib- 
je6l to bring upon it Gods temporarie wrath, ficknefTcs 
fpirituall, hcllifti anguifli to the fenfeof it, there is ftill 
caufe enough to fcare. Seeing that concerning temporall 
threats and punifhments, Goddealcthas fharply, or ra- 
ther morefharply with his children than any other, why 
fhouldthey not dread his fatherly corredion? Would a 
child that had but one fparke of wit, or common rcafbn, 
provoke his father to Icourge and whip him everie (^^jt 
becaufe hee knowes hee will not dif-inherit him in the end ; 
and not rather fay, It is good fleeping in a whole skin? 
And (Irall Beleevers, who are fpiritually wile , vyillingly 
provoke God, becaufe hee will not condemne them eter- 
nally ? The aflbrance which a godly man hath of his falva- 
tion, is ever joyned with afaithfnll and confciondble care 
to walk uprightly before the Lord, and to decline by-paths 
and fhrayings ; for which end he makes ule of everie part of 
the Word, Thiftisno condetnnmion to them rfhich are in 

F C^riB / 



Rom.8i> 



Amos 3 :z . 
a Saiti.i2,if . 



Rom.8.1. 



66 



The Commaff dements. 



,4. (^HmnandC' 

metirt, 

Tit.a.Wjia. 



C^riB Jejtu, ivha walks not after the fiefh, hut after the 
Sfirit. Moreover, there may be feare of that which a man 
is infallibly aflured toefcapc, not a diftruftfull feare of fal- 
ling into ic,but a watchfhll feare of lliunning, and ihrinking 
all mcanes leading thereunto. 

§. ^. The word of grace, which calleth upon us tobe- 
leeve the free mercie of God in Chrift to the pardon of our 
o&QiictSjteacheth mto deny HngodltKeJfe andworldly lufis, 
and to live godly ^ jujiljifshrly in this prefeut evill world : 
and this word of grace is the matter of f aith^hich is wholly 
receivedi if any part take good rooting. For the precepts of 
ian61itieand holineffe bind the conleience to obey God, as 
well as thepromiiesbind to truft in God. What God hath 
linked together,faith will not feparate : but God hath cou- 
pled mercie andobedience, grace and hoHnefle. He cannot 
beleevcormakefaithfull plea to the promilcsof remifTion 
and ftlvatioHj who dotb> not make confcience of all found 
do6>rine that he heareth, and give free, unlimited aflent to 
cvcrie part of Gods Word, fnbmitting himfelfe to be led by 
it>andthatbecaufeit is his Word. Faith letteth theimage 
of God upon the heart ; which is manifefted in the feverali 
branches of bolineffc and ri^hteoulhefle, which heecom- 
mandeth in his Word : and it refignetha man unto God, 
to live? not unto the world, not unto theluftsof the flefh, 
but unto thepraife of his Name; which is not pofsible to 
be done, if he cleave not unto the Commandements as juft, 
equall, honeftj and good, in all things and at all times tobe 
obeyed. 

Faith cannot take and leave, yeeld and with-hold aflent 
at pleaitire>part and mangle, divide with times, feafbns, and 
private refpefts ; or refigne it (tX^c to God 3 with limitation 
to have leave in this or that to liveatplealure: but it is 
downe-r^ht for God, and willingly rcceiveth whatfoever 
hee laith; what God approveth, that is pleafingto faith, 
though crofle toagCj educatioHi cuftomcy credit, honour, 
naturall defire, and inclination: what God condcmneth, 
that faith difalloweth, though ncYcr (b much countenan- 
ced 



The Commandements, 



67 



ced by authoritie, graced by example, attended upon with 
honour, dignitie, preferment, and futing to our dilpofition. 
Faith fubdueth the ftrongeft paffions as well, and (if due 
and right comparifon bee made) as much as the weakeft :; 
and acknowledging the goodneffe, mercic,andabfblutelb- 
vcraigntic of the Lord, yeeldeth it lelfe to be led by him, 
above all things thatran oppofe themfclves, and will not 
give place to ought that doth fetagainft him. If God bid 
AlfrAham leave all, his friends, his fathers houfe, the land 
of his nativitie, to goc into a ftrange countrey Jie is ftraight 
upon his journey, without further queftioninghee will bee 
gone, no entreatie will ftay him in Mefofotamia, If God 
command him to offer his onely Son in facrificc, heis early 
up to doe it. 

The faithfiill fbulc gives firme and free aflent unto all 
things revealed by God , eagerly fixeth the affiance of 
heart upon the promiles, and eleaveth clofe unto the Com- 
mandements, not onely fuch as lute with his dilpofition, 
education, age,- but even thole that direftlycrofle and op- 
pole carnall realbn, carnall aflfe<Stions, wordly plealures, 
and what provocations Ibever there be in the world unto 
finne: and not then alone when it maybe done without 
contradiction or refiftance, but then elpccially when 
temptations rife, humane reafbn failes,finfull lulls hale this 
way and that, Satan rageth, the world frownesor flatters, 
our preferment, credit, honour,life, all lies at flake. In this 
cafe, faith lookcsdire6lly unto God, andjudgethit bcftto 
flick unto him from whom comes falvation. For no good 
can bee equall to that which God promifeth, no evill fb 
great as what he threatens, no courfeibfafeas what hee 
prelcribcs , no evidence fb fiire as the truth of God , no 
command fojuft as what God requires; thegreateftgaine 
is to lofe all fbrChrifts fake, if wee be called thereunto; 
wee fhould fland fo affc6led to the glorie of God, as to 
fhrinke in no triall, though never fb difficult, nor thinkeit 
much to rtfiU unto bloutt^ firiviitg a^ainft fm : This is the 
conflant,ccrtaine judgement of faith, which bringetb forth 

F 2 a fettled 



Gene/Ii£.i4. 



Ccne/^az*,?. 



Heb.ij.^. 



68 /« f articular frat^kisthefaithfuUmay faile. 



Inpartiaddrpra- 
' dices tht fatthfuU 

I may faile. 

I I Sam.ay.i . 
Pfal.ii(J.ii. 

" Matth-a<S.7o,7a,- 
I 7^ 



§..7. ^ 
Tie obedienceof 
jkith ii uniformet 
eatirtj and can, 
fttmu 



a fettledrdbltition to follow the Lord at alltitnesi and in all 
things, notwithlhnding all oppoficion. 

In particular pra6lices the faithful! foule may be ignorant 
of fome things* and weakc in the application of oihers. 
J>avid in a paflion may thinke Samuel hath deceived him ; 
and 'Peur feirprifed with bodily feare may deny his Mafter: 
but the conftant t€ mper of the Beleever is much better ; and 
if by fome unexpcded occaficm be be unfettled j he is never 
quiet, tintill his former refolution be confirmed, and put in 
pradice. For havii^ weighed and pondered all thin^ in an 
even balance, heeis afluredly perfwaded> that no outward 
evillcan come in ccwnparifon with Gods anger, noearthiy I 
good is to be matched with Gods favour, that tranfitcric 
delights aredeare bought, if a man endanger bis fbule to 
compA them ; that the tbflFerii^s of this life are not wor- 
thy to be eompatred with the glorie that fliall be revealed : 
and therefore it is infinitely better to cleave unto God, 
though Ki reproaches* bands, imfffifonment, or death, than 
to ff«^§y theplcaftires of fin for afeafon, 

§. 7. And feeing faith kindly rooted doth fpread it felfc 
toeverie branch of cfivine truth, cleaving infeparably to the 
whole, and with clofeft repofe of heart, to that which is 
moft excellent and of greateft importance, the obedience 
which faith produceth , and the works which it anima- 
teth,muft bee entire, uniforme, and conft a nt . Entire, not i n 
d^ree, but in the branches of obedience. Maimed obedi- 
ence to fbmc duties of the Law,Iopping oflF other branches, 
which accord not with our flatc, humour and dilpofition, 
or groffely neglecting them, though no leffe commanded, 
is an argament of an unfound and imperfe<ft root whence it 
%ringeth. The practice of fome one or few Chriflian du- 
ties, joyned with the extreme n<^le6t of others no lefTe 
excellent and neccflarie, isnotoken of faith, biaa f^rong 
preemption that what good is done, proceedcth from in- 
dulgence to corruption. For if wee give our felves to the 
prolecution of fbmegood works» becaufe wee receive and 
embrace the Word which commandcth them, then flball 

we 



ohedieme of Faith is uniforme^ entire^ ^c. 



69 



wee give our felves to the performance of everie good' 
worke, which the fame Word doth call for at our hands: 
If we doe this or that good worke commanded, becaufe it 
is futable to our diipoiition, pafsing over others that bee 
crofle thereunto, wee obey not the Lord, butpleafe our 
felves. 

The Word of God doth worke eft*e6lually as it is em- 
braced, and theconfideratioHof what Chrift hath done for } 
us, mil bring forth in us the feme mind that was in him, a 
mind to doe his Fathers will in everie point alike fincerely j 
but with greater intentions, fervour and chearefulnefle, as 
the weightinefle of the dutie, or opportunitie and fealbn 
fballrequire. For true faith affenteth to everie divine truth, 
as certaineand infalliWe, clcaveth co everie promifeand 
commandement alike fincerely and unfainedly,fticketh fa- 
fteft tothemthatbceof greatcft worth and necefsitie, or 
upon fjjcoiall occafion may moft tend to the glorie of God, 
the comfort of the foule, andgoodofour brethrenj andio 
teacheth the affe6lionsto rife and fall, (well and aflwage, 
whether in admiration or deteftation, in embracing or loa- 
thing, and to put themlelves forth in pra6lice, according to 
the different excellencie or indignitie, goodnefle or vile- 
nefTe of objects prefented to them. It teacheth us ablblutely 
and entirely to fubmit our wils unto Gods will; toaffedt 
whatibever he approves, to hate whatfoever hee difallowes ; 
to love that beft,which his Word afliireth us to be moft ex- 
cellent and dearetohim, and todeteft that moft, which is 
moft odious and abominable in his fight, though otherwiie 
pleafant to our naturall difpofition, or not h dittaftefull as 
many other matters would be, did we cake care for the flefli 
to fulfill the lufts thereof. 

Indeed the faithfull foule may find it izX^o. more prone 
to one finne than another, and moreduH to fomcgood du- 
ties than other, by reaibn of naturall indinacion, ftare of 
lifcjcuftome, or fbme other occafion : but, if right compa- 
rifon bee made, faith enciteth to hateall finne, and to affeil 
allduticsof hoIinefTe, oneas well as another. Amanfick 

F ? of 



70 



The Jpeciall ohjed of jufiifpng faith . 



Luk.J.i;. 



§. r. . 

TheffsciaU et>]elf 



' J Cor.y.r^ 
Rom.15.25^26. 
Rom.io.8>and 

M7- 



^ of divers difeaiesj but one predominant, may be cured of it 
as much as of any of the reft, and yet bee more troubled 
with the remainders of it, becaufe it had deepeft root and 
grcateft head : and (b everie member of corruption may be 
truly mortified, and yet the ftronger pafsions before,though 
in proportionable degree tamed and brought into fubjc6lion 
as much as the reft,may be r he moft troublefbmerwhich the 
faithftill doe acknowledge, bewaile, and endevour to re- 
dreife, keeping them, under with greateftcare, and ftriving 
againft them with all earneftnefle. 

This fight agaicft corruption is conftantly maintained 
by faith, and conftantly it cleaveth to the word of grace, as 
much better than all carnall or wordly allurement^ 
whereby wee might be drawneafide intohnne, and fo it 
bringeth forth conftant obedience to the will of God i The 
good ground are they ywhich with anhomB and good, heart 
having heard the Wordi kee^ it, and bring forth finit with, 
patience* 



CHAP. VI. 

Of thejpeciall ohjeB of jufiifyitig faith. 

§. i.'pAith fceketh not life and (alvationin the threat- 
i nings, prohibitions, or commandements ; though 
it worke by love, and earneftly contend againft corruption : 
but acknowledging its imperfedlion in working, and re- 
nouncing all confidence in works or in our felves, it refteth 
upon the promifes of mercie in Jefiis Chrift,or Word of re- 
conciliation, which is culled the TVord of faith' The more 
firme and lively our faith iSy the more fincerely it worketh : 
the niore fincerely it worketh, the better wee difceme and 
nnfaTnedly acknowledge our imperfedlions, anddiiciaime 
all affiance in our owne righteoufnefle : and the more 
^thfulfy wee renounce all confidence in our works, the 

more 



The JpeciaU ohje^f of juftifying faith. 



71 



moreearneftly wefeekefor falvation only by Chrift. Faith 
refteth upon Chrift as Mediatour,oras God and man obey- 
ing to the curfed death of the crofle, that from the grace of 
God wee might obtaine pardon of fin, and bee accepted ^s 
righteous unto life. For this wee are alwayes to have in 
mind, that Chrift is the obje6^of faith, not abftraflly and 
nakedly confidered, but Chrift with his benefits., Chrift lif. 
ted up as the brazen Serpent, Chrift fet forth as a propitia- 
tdriefacrifice for our fins, Chrift as our Redeemer fi:ofnfin 
and deatH,Chrift as^e is fet forth to the belecver :" and thus 
to receive Chrift and beleeve on him, is to beleeve and re- 
ceive in him ranlbme from fin and death. . - 
Chrift and his Apoftles teftifie, that this is fpedally to be 
preached, viz. remifsion of finnes in and through Jeftn 
Chr/St' a This the faith of all the Saints, [though it have 
refpe6led everie part of the Word] hath in fpeciall manner 
reipe6led, craved, embraced. Eut that which is fpecially to 
be preached and bcleeved ; that which the faith of all the 
Saints hath alwayes in (peciall manner refped^ed, defired, 
craved, and obtained, that is the (peciall obje(5l ofjuftifying 
faith. If at any time weeread, that the beleefeof a tempo- 
rarie promife was accounted for righteoufneffe ; it is, be- 
cauleitdoth in beleeving the thing temporall, apprehend 
b him in whom all the promifes are Yea and Amen : who is 
at leaft the removed obje61: of juftifying faith in every thing 
itapprehendeth. Thus ydi^rahamhdeeying the promife of 
feed, did apprehend that bleffed feed which had from the 
beginning beene promifed, and faw his day. Neither did 
he looke at the power of God, but to fuftaine his bcleefe of 
a feed before promifed, againft the temptations wherewith 
he was exercifed. Exprefle mention of the fpeciall mercie 
of God vve find not in thelcrmonsof the Apoftles : but it 
doth evidently follow of thofe things which are preached 
by them. ForremifTion ^ of fins doth prefuppofe the mer- 
cieof God; and the fpeciall fubjefl of their preaching cis 
remifsionof fins, byahdfor the death and refurreftion of 
Jefus Chrift. 

F 4 , That 



Ads 20.24. 

I-uk- 24.47. 
iTet.i.ir. 
2 Cor.5.i9,aa. 
a Pral,3i.5.and 
Ji.r.i.and X03. 
3- 

Dan.9.T7. 
HoCi4.3.ancI 

Liik.i.7i.3nd 
1S.19. 
Ads 1 5.11. 
Gen.15.6. 

b Gal.3.8.1^. 



Joh.8.;tf. 



d Pfal.KSjj.ij. 

and 130.3,4. 

Mic.7.1^. 

Tit.3.5. 

e \£tsz.^^.3ni 

4.12. and 10.4 J. 

and 13. 39. and 

8.37. 



7^ 



Thejpeciallohie^ of pfiifjing faith. 



PfpSfii tb)tSiens 
anfwtnd. 



Toh.^68. 



' Mark.t-4|. 
;_Luk.4.3f. 



\ That which firft prickcch and fpurreth the (bule to Chrift, 
1 that giveth us to underftand what the ibule principally rca- 
cheth at, and receivcth in Chritt. But fin and death urge 
the foulefor mercieand life to be obtained, prick and fpur 
the foule to goe forth of it felfe, and receive ChriR, and reft 
upon himjas he is offered in the Gofpel : Thereforeit prin- 
cipally iayeth bold on the free promife of mcrcie covering 
fin and delivering from death. 

The confeffion of "Peter and the reft of the Apoftles (for 
hee made anfwer-for them all, as the queftion was propoun- 
ded to them all) was no more in words;, but of Chrifts of-- 
fice. Thou art Chrift', and his nature. The Son of the li- 
ving God. But ftiall wc tbinkc the taith of the Apoftles to 
be nothing but a bare aftent of mind to that which they 
profefled of Chrift? Then {hall wee make the DevilJhim* 
felfe to be zs good and true abeleever as the Apoftles; for 
heprofeffed as much, Q Jefmof Naz.eirethilk^orp yvho 
thouarti&c. No doubt the Apoftles reftedupon Chrift 
for falvation, and beleeved in him to be that to their foules, 
and for their ufeand comfort, which they beleeved him to 
be. Thefubjef^ matter of their faith in that point was, that ! 
Jefus was the Chrift : the manner of belceving was with \ 
the heart, relying upon him for falvation. ',: - .r'4i,if ^ | 

The faith of ayihrnham was not a hare aflenr given t6 
the promife of God, but a confidence in thefpeciali mercie 
of God : for hee refted upon the promife, not onely in re- 
gard of his pofteritie, but alio in regard of Chrift, aocor*' 
ding to that which is faid, Inthjfeedjhall all nations of 
the earth be blejfeci : which leed the Apoftle teacheth to be 
Chrift, and theblefling hee interpreteth to bee redemption 
from the curfe of the Law,and juftificationby faith, ^^^r*?- 
A<!«?thenbeleeving the remiflion of finnes in and through 
Jefus Chrift, of necefsitie it will follow, that his faith was 
dire6^ed unto ad^xercifed about the fpeciall mercie of 
God in Jefus Chrift. How then doth the Apoftle fet out 
Ahrahams full beleefe in this, that he xvas affared, that h^, 
vpfjo had promifed, was able alfo to doe it f Not becaufe 

uibrahams 



C7i\,i.\6. 



QiT»j'.,?. 



Ro-n. 



4.21. 



ThefjfeciaU ehjeci of ptftifymg faith. 



73 



Abrahams faith did juftifie him> as hee ^i^ beleeve the 
power of God; but tycGaufehisj'tiftifyirg faith, which was 
fixed upon the gracious promife, didfuftaineit felfeby the 
confideration of Gods power, in time of triall betweeac 
the promile and the execution . Abraham had a promife of 
feed ; but the execution is deferredj whereupon his faith is 
aflfailed thus : ^haham thy body is dc^d, thy wifehope- 
I leflfe that way : which things foiled Sarah for a time. Now 
when Abrahams, faith on the promiies is thqs ^tx. upon j 
againft thefe arguments of unbeleefe, faith oppofetb the 
altfiifl&cient psOwer of God, and fuiis jn^tb k (4^^, wi^. this 
eonfideration, G<xiisable. As anotb^ftiniej \y!h€n;be was 
tempted to offetrup his fon in facrifice? hee verily beleeved- 
he (houldreceive bim againe,becaule god was abU toraife 
him *rp againe, Beleefe of Gods power is not the a6t,ofju- 
ftifyingfaith,as it jijftirtes rfethe.c(3rj(ider;itio;^ 
power is iprop and ftay to feith igain^'m^f#>14 li^pCf pir 
on«. Andfowe ilialLfind the Almigi?ti^ powerofQ)ci of- 
ten alledged to confirme the wealse and wavering heart- A^s 
for Sarahs laughing, thinking it impplsible to haMpa:Ghild, 
the Lord'Caid to Abrah^sh l,f_^y^-fJ^tft^_ ha^d sn ityk^QJ^ihU 
to gad\^/Jm^agn^t0^M<ifm .<^i^i|?g, vvhetber ahcbg 
fiih inthe fea, fhould b& gather#for 1004 for Ifra^l in tba 
vwildern^ile;- the Lord an| weired, // tkeLp/ds handv^axjf^ 
fliortl th^H.jhalt fct t^heiih^ymy vgordfh^Uc(}m,et0 pajfe, $:j/\ 
Mat. ■ And tq the Virgin M^i^, de^ring.to be fi^rthec con-- 
firane^ touching tbepromife of God> ths Ang^l-rpakes aar' 
{^ertwith Godfi0tihi»gif<imp:o^J^Je. i:3i^' 

As for the faith of the Centurionj ib much? commended 
by our Saviour Chrift, it might bee a ftep or meane, by 
which hee was raifed of God to a trqe faif h iorjuftificatir 
onbythe Mefeias; or it nsayte) it wa^ fome efFe<a of a 
juitifying faith : but initfellbj ashee;4id pnely beleeve the 
power of Cbrift to heale his fervantj it did not juftifie. Our 
Adverfaries themfelves will not. iay, that naked aflent to 
this truth, that Chrift by his bare word v^s of power tp 
curehis fervant abfenc^ is fu05eient,6Q ju^ficatipn, which 

yet 



IBelUrm ubi 
fiipta. 
Rhem. tArniat- i)t 



Seff. 



.24. 



Roin.4.«p, 



Heb.11.19. 



Gencfli?.i4. 



Numb.Ti.j3, 



Lui 



1.37. 



Luk.7.9. 



74 



The fpeciaH ohjei^ ^fpfiifying faith. 






yet is the fabftance of his confefsion . If they anfwer, chat 
theprofefsionoF his faith is here mentioned according to 
the prefent occafion : they muft withall confefle it fol- 
loweth not, thatbecaufe none other act of his faith is here 
expreflcd, therefore there was nothing furtiher in his faith 
untojuftificacion before God. Surely if he beleevcd'to'faJ- 
vationjhe beleeved fomewhat elfe that made him to beleeve 
what is here noted : heebeleeved fomewhat elfe,that made 
him to lajT, Lord, I am not nvorthy that thoHJhoHldf^ enter 
under my roofe. 

Ghrittis everiewhere made the thing which faith em- 
braceth to falvation, and whom it doth looke unto and rc'? 
fpe6i:jas it doth make us righteous in the fight of God. God 
fo loved the roorldy that hee £ave his onelj begotten Sen^ 
that whofoeverheleeveth in hlmjhould notferijh, hmhave 
everlafting life. I am the re furred ion and the life^ he that 
beleeveth intaeet though hee were deadyetJhaU hee live: 
And by him all that beleeve are jufiified from all things j 
from tvhichyee could not hejufiified by the Law of Mofcs. 
Beleeve on theLord Jefus Chrift, and thoujhalt befaved 
and thy houfe. That they may receive forgivenejfe of fins, 
and inheritance among them which are fanHified by faith, 
»^' t that is in me. Being juflified freely by his grace, through 
the redemption which is in Jeftu ^hrift : whom ^odhath 
fet forth tffbea^ropitiation through faith in hif b loud for 
the remiffton of fins that arefaFl^ through the forbearance 
of<jod. It is with us as with malefaclours ; the Kings par- 
don onely received doth acquit them, andreftbre them to 
libertie: arid Gods mercie in Chrift covering fin, received 
by a lively faith, dothfet usfi:ee ftomfeare of damnation. 
It is trucj that juftifying faith doth give aflent to everie ar- 
ticle of faith, and cleave to everie Commandement : but it 
obtaineth remiffionof finnes,asitreceivethGods pardon 
^S^slo,p^' in Chrift. To him give all the Prophets witnejfe, that 

through his name^ whofoever beleeveth inhitn,jhallreceive 
yemipion of fmnes. 

Righteouffiefle is everie where tied unto faith, even to 

faith 



Joh.3.16. 



Romj5.ay. 
Ephefi.15 
A5ks 15.11. 
Joh.i-i2. 
Gal.j.a*'. 



TheJpeciaU oSj ec^ ofju[iifjingfaith. 



75 



faith in Chrift, whom onely it doth and can looke unto as it 
juftifieth. I c»Hnt all things hut lojfe for the excellent 
knowledge fake 0J Chriji "^ efw my Lord, for rehom I have 
counted all things lajfe, and doe judge them to be dung that 
J might "win Chrifi^ And might be found in him-, that is,Kot 
havtngmine owne righteoujneffe rphich is of the Law, but 
that which ii through the faith ofChrifi,the righteoufnejfe 
which is of Cod through faith. For looke as nothing in a 
poore man can make himrich/urther than it doth get riches 
into his poffeision ; lb nothing in us finners can make us 
righteous to Mk, farther than it doth lay hold on fuch a righ- 
teoufnefle which can takeaway fin, and make us righteous 
to the receiving of life eternall. 

Faith is called the faith of Chrifi, becaufe Chrift is he 
whom faith^doth^pprehend and' receive to righteoufnefle 
and life ; according to that of the Evangelift, Hee that bc' 
leeveth onfhe Son of God hath lifejeve^lafiing. 

That is the principall xhytdt of faithj for which embra- 
ced and received by faith, eternall.Iife 'is given from grace. 
But eternall life is giveaof grace, /orChrift embraced or 
refted upon by faith. \ 

a To he le eve ChriB dead and rifen , as the Apoftles 
taught him,is true beleefe : but that is not barely tobele^ve 
the hiftorieofhis death and refurrecftion, but the fruits and 
benefitsthereof, and that with affiance. Itisfb tobeleeve 
the death and refurreflion of Chrift, as thereby to looke 
forforgivenefle of finnes: whichistoput ourtruftin the 
fpeciaU mercie of God through Jefus Chrift. This is plaine 
by tht^ot^soi Martha ; for when Chrift asked her,I>i??/? 
thou beleeve this, that whofoever beleeveth on meefhall 
not dye everlafiingly f She anfvvereth ; Tea Lord, Ibelee've 
that thou art Chrifi^: tha t is, I cannot doubt, but that thofe 
that cleave to thee (ball have life everlafting, teachingthat 
thefe confefsions imply an affiance and truft of all good 
through him. The Eunuch his profeision wasy I bHeeve 
thatjefui Chrift is the Son of God: bnt the faith of this 
Eunuch was a particular confidence of hearty whereby hee 

embraced 



Rom.^ij.and 

JO 4. 

Phil. J. 5,9, 



Gal.t.r^. 



Joh.3.3*. 



Joh ^.47. and 
17.5. 

aRomio.iOjii. 
Rom, 10.5. 

I Cor.15.3. 



JoLii.itf^zy. 



Ads 8 3?. 



J6 



Thej^eciall ohje5i ofjuftifjingfaith. 



Joh,l,49j:o. 

Maik.=;.7. 
Luk.8-a8. 



Ads 5.31. 



Rom.8.34. 



§. 2. 



Mark. r. 40. 
rBeUar. de yupf. 
lib.i.cap.i. 



emhraced Chrifthis Saviour, and beJeeved on him for his 
particular benefit and comfort. Nathaniel profeffed of 
Chrift, that hee was the Ki»g oflfraeh that he was the Son 
of Gody afid To much in generall the Devils bcleeve and 
know : Was T^thaniels faith nothing but a bare per- 
fwafion that Chrifl was the Sonne of God? yes, ii was a 
perfvvafion joyned with affiance, for hee refted upon him, 
and fo beleeved the promife of merciein him. G&d hath 
raifedup Chrifi t& he a prince andSA^idttr) t^ give refen^ 
tanee to Jfrael, and forgivenejfe ef fins : and to beleeve 
Chrifi a Prince and Saviour raifcd from the dead, and let at 
the right hand of the Father, doth imply truft and affiance 
in him for forgivenefTe of fins and life ever lading, through 
the grace of ©od. 

§. 2. It is 0%'e6led,that to belecwe the power of God is 
juftifying faith : for our Saviour required no more of the 
blind man, tbantobeloevethathcewas ablecohcaJehim. 
And the Leper ieemetfa to doubtof liis wili, but was well 
perfwaded of his power. But it is one thing to lookeunto 
Ghrifl for bodily bealth, or to receive a temporal! blef^ 
fing: another to beleeve in him to juflification. For the 
faith which Chrifi requires to jufiification, is fucb a faith as 
doth acquit us from our finsiand doth procure usrighteouf^ 
nefle : But many were healed by our Saviour,that(for ought 
can be proved) were not acquitted from their (ins. And if 
I thefe blind men had onely beleeved that he was ableto cure 
I the malady of their eyes, notwithflanding this their faith, 
their foules had beeneuncured, their fins uncovered. Many 
that were cured of their bodily infirmities, were alfb healed 
of their fpirituall difeafes ; not becaufe they beleeved his 
power to help them, but becaufe they relyed upon him as 
their onely Saviour. 

And the tefiimony it felfe fheweth, that the blind 
men beleeved Chrifi to bee the LMeJfias, intimes pafl: pro- 
mifed of the Father, and now exhibited : fb that they 
might beleeve to juftification, but their beleefeof his om- 
nipotencie did not juflifie them. The writer to the He- 

brexves 



Heb.ii.J3,34,3J. 



Th^cciAll oh^jeci of]upfyingfM, 



T*? 



77 



^r^wv/rbeweth in divers examplesj that by juftifying faith 
fomeftihdited KingdomtSt other for»e flop the mouths of 
Z/«>»/,certaine quenched the force offire^oxhtti efcapedthe 
edge of the /word, &c- All which things (though tempo- 
rail) were atchieved by juftifying faith, which is the hand 
d the people of Gpd to receive good by : but faith juftified 
not, as it was occupied about, or looked unto thefc things, 
but as \x. was carried to an higher objeft. The healing of 
corporall diieales was a feale unto us, that Chrift is our ^^X\f^ 
verer from fin and death (as the Scriptures teftifie, and our 
adverlaries confefle) and therefore in beleeving the mercie 
of God towards them, in healing of their difeafes, they 
might forthwith conceive, that of his free grace hee would 
be pleafcd to forgive their fins, which are the truecaufes of 
all our maladies. 

It isagaine obje£Ved, that in the Creed is contained the 
whole obje^ of juftifying faith ; but in it there is no men- 
tion of the fpeciall mercie of God- In this obje^lion there 
is a two-fold raiftaking; for ia the Creed is contained the 
obie<St of faith which is beleeved ; thatisi the Himme of 
do6trine to be beleeved to falvation is there explained ; but 
here wee Ipeake of the obje^ii: of juftifying faith, by which 
wee beleeve. The do<Strine pffaich i% one thing, tl^e private 
adfof the heart relying upon the promifcs of mercie ano- 
ther. Now when wee enquire, what is the ob^e(5 of jufti- 
fying faith, the queftion is not what is theiummeof ftith, 
or of the articles to bee beleeved, but what tl>e faith of the 
heart inall thefe articles wbith it belecveth, doth firft and 
principally looke unto, reft upon, and receive to (alvation. 
For when all Chriftians proftife, and biftorically beieewe 
all the articles of the Chriftian faith; yet many are not 
juftified or faved, becaufe they beleeve wx zs they ought % 
whence it is evident, that bare aflfent to thearticles of Re- 
ligion, is not that faith which juftifies or faves ; but ano- 
ther of farre different nature is required, i't wee would be 
partners of thefe blefrino;s. Againe , verball mention of 
Gods Ipeciall mercie there is not any in the Creed, but 

really. 



ifa.53.4. 

Matth.&.i?. 



lii.licap.^. 



78 



JF4ithm Gedfiameth his image in the heart. 



Efay a<?.9. anrJ 



S. 1. 

'F4«& in gtds 
fpeciaHmercU 
framethhii imagt 



really it is included. Fortobeleeve in God* is to depend 
upon his mercie reaching to the pardon of our oft'ences :To 
beleevein Chrift, is to relye upon him as the Author of re- 
demptionircconciliationj and^eace with God : which doth 
ncceffarily imply the Ipeciall mercic of God. And in the 
Creed wee belceve the rcmiffion of fins, which article can- 
not bee explained according to the doctrine of the Gofpel, 
without beleefe intheipeciall mercieofGodj and confi- 
dence thereon. The conclufion hi The Word of God is the 
general! objedt of juftifying faith ; the fpeciall promifes of 
mcrcie and fbrgivenefic in Chrift Jeiiis, is the ipe«iall objc<5l 
of faith, as it juftifieth, 

§. J. This beleefe in the rich mercie of God framcth 
the image of God in our hearts, and imprinteth the vertues 
of Chrifts death upon the Ibule, as by application thefeale 
doth iet its ftamp upon the wax. A man cannot walk in the 
/Sun,buthemuftbearc its hue: no more can faee beleevein 
the grace and mercie of God, to the pardon of his offences, 
but he muft bearc the image of Gods mercie upon his foule. 
And fo faith in Chrift doth encite to the uniforme ftudious 
pra^ice of pietie towards God, who of his gracious, free, 
undefcrved love and mercie, is pleafed totepnte Beleevers 
as his fons by adoption, and compaffe them with his fa- 
vours; and of mercie, kindnefle, long-fuffering , forbea- 
rance, fbrgivencflfe towards mcn,looh*ng to God for its pat- 
tcrne, whom it muft and ought to follow. The Bcleever 
cannot put on Chrift as a Juftificr, but hce muft put on the 
bowels of mercies, kindnefle, humblenefle of mind, meck- 
nefle, lone-fuffering, forbearance,&c. and the clofer he put- 
teth on Chrift untorighteoulheffcthe more quick and ope- 
rativebe thefe graces of the Spirit,and more ]ivc\y the ope- 
rations themfelvesthatiflfue from them, as quickened and 
animated by that ftith. 



CHAP, 



Juftifymg Faith is a particular confdence. 



19 



CHAP. vn. 

Juflifjing Fdith is a particular and certaine cottfidencet 

re fling upon the mercie of Gad in Chri^for pardon 

andforgivenejfe ; not an ajfuredperjwajion 

that oHr^ns he already pardoned 

and forgiven. 



§. I. lUftifying Faith doth net onely beleeve the pro- 
I mife of mercie in general! ; as that there is fbr- 
.giveneffe for them that lay hold upon it r but it rclyeth up- 
on the promife for our owne particulars and depends whol- 
ly thereupon, looking after no other help. For truft or 
^confidence importeth the application of ibme good to 
him that trufteth: and (o heethat cafteth himfelfe upon 
the promifcs of mercie , drawes neercunto Chrift, throwcs 
himielfeinto his armes, andgraips about him with all his 
might. Looke how the pooce infant, aflfrighted with the 
apprehenfion of fom& danger^ clings clofe to the parent 
fbrfijccour anddefencci or amanin danger of drowning 
lay cs hold upon fome willow that growes upon the bank, 
and hangs thereon for fafetie : fo doth the lGuIe,purliied 
by the terroursof the Law, and affrighted witb the ugly 
fight of finne, flye withfpeed unto Je&s Chrift, asheeis 
held forth in the Gofpel, hang upon him, and to dye for 
it will never lofe his hold. For in him it apprehends 
plcntifull redemption, and out of him it knowes nofuc- 
couris to bee found. In this fenfe faith applyeth the pro- 
mife of grace to a mans felfein particular, that is, it parti- 
cularly relyethupon the grace of God injefus Chrift to 
obtaine pardon and forgivenefle. Even as they that were 
ftnng with the fierie ferpents, did come and looke to the 
brazen Serpent, beleeving to find the healing of thofe 
deadly ftings that were fattened in them : thus a (bulc, 
ftungwith fin and feare of damnation, commeth by faith 
to Chrift, relyingon ftim, truftingto find in and tnrough 

him, 



5.1. 

f unifying Faitb 
uaf^ticular and 
eettainttettfi' 



Numb.ar.9. 
Joh.3.14,15. 



8o 



Jufiifiing Faith is a f articular confidence. 



Matth.11.28. 

Efay55-i.a- 
I Job.? .24. 
Job.3 16,16. 
Afts 10.43. and 
1J.J9. 
Rom.io.?,to. 



Gal.3.10. 



Joh.7.j7. 



him,' cureof thofe deadly evils wherewith it is wounded- 
If a Prince fhould offer a generall pardon to Rebels, caufing 
it to bee proclaimed, that if they would lay downe armes, 
iWjmit tncmfelves, and flie to his mercie, they ftiould be re- 
ceived to favour, and wee {houid (be many hereupon caft 
downe their weapons, and fiie for mercie ; would wee not 
prefently know, that they beleeved thepromife that they 
{hould bee pardoned ? So when Chrift faith to finners. 
Come unto me,or,Beleeve on mee, and I will eafeyou>what 
&ith (thir^c wee) -have (inners who rcfbrt unto him ? Is it 
HOI a beleefcj that hec will (according to his Word) de- 
liver them from finneand death, and reftore them to life 
eternali? 

If there bee a particular word, or that which is equiva- 
lent, then there is a particular faith. But there is a particu- 
lar word, or that which is equivalent. For the thirftie and 
barren Ibule, thatis ftung with the terrours of the Law : 
thty xhtx. labour and areheavietadeni ate invited to come 
unto Chrift, and exhorted, entreated, perfwaded, comman- 
ded tobeleevc ; and the promife is, fVhofoever beleeveth in 
himjhallfiot perifij hut have everUfiing life : which is as 
much zSiThemaSithowztx. burdened and doeft labour, thou " 
art w^arie and thirftie, come thou unto mee, behold, I in- 
vite thee ; beleeve thou, for unto thee doe I reach forth the 
promife of mercie, receive it, and thou {halt live. Fw the 
particulars are ever in their generals. How can wee prove, 
that John or James are by nature under wrath & the curfe ? 
otherwife it cannot be proved than th\x%,(^Hrfed is every one 
that cantinueth not in all things,that are written in the book^ 
of the Law to doe themj. How can we prove th'stThomas 
or T>eter are bound to love the Lord, and to abftaine from 
murther,fomication,theft ; but becaufe it is laid to all men, 
Thoftfhalt love the Lord, Thmfhalt notfieale ? &c. And 
thus it is laid to allyLei everie one that is a thirjl come unto 
me, and drinke, Beleeve in the LordJefHi^andthoHfhalthe 
faved: whence ev^rife thirftie and burdened foule may con- 
clude, I ought to beleeve, God calleth and commafideth 

me 



jufiifjing faith is a f articular conscience , 



8i 



me to belceve ; hee hath given mee his promife, and offers 
mercic, and belecving 1 fliallbe iaved. 

The faith of true Beleevers goeth farther than the faith 
■of Devils can doe. But they may,and doe beleeve or know, 
that Chrifl died in generall for finners, and that they fliall 
be iaved who beleeve in him. If juftifying. faith have not 
in it fome particular confidence, then it is tiotoppofed to 
defpaire, fo as to expell it. For things that will not en- 
dure the one the otherj mufl: have contrarietie ; as fire and 
water: if the one doe not fight and drive forth the Other, 
then may they dwell together. But true faith and titter 
dcfperation cannot fland together , but doe expell each 
other. Moreover, true faith in Cbrifl doth breed confi- 
dence and boldnefle; according to that, Let as enter rvith 
coHJidence andboldneffe throtfgh faith mhim True faith 
thecefore hath in it particular confidence in the gtace of 
God^ For as nothing can makchot, which hath n<M: heat \ 
in it felfe : {o nothing can make confident > which after 
fbme manner hath not confidence in it. To » receive is to 
take in particular to a mans felfe, or to apprehend and Jay 
hoidof for conveying a thing to bimfelfe. But to >» beleeve 
onChrifl and to receive Chrjfl-» doe both import the lame 
thing. Therefore to beleeve on Chritl, is to rcfl: upon him 
for the conveying of his benefits particularly unco us. 
Meat nourifheth not, unleffe it bee eaten and digeiled ; a 
plaifler feeales not, if it bee not applyed ; a potion will not 
worke, if it be not received. C^^^ ^ the tme hread ofltfe, 
that came dorenefrom heaven-, upon whom We muli ft^d^ by 
faithjif we wouldbe partakers of his benefits : and feed up- 
on him we cannot, if we doe not particularly beleeve in him 
for our lelves. The worke of redcmprion remaines proper 
i^oChrift: but the benefit of his death is communicated 
CO everie member of his myfticali body, for their juftifica- 
tion : And how can wee hope to have our finnes forgivenj \f 
wee be not made one with him by faith, and reft upon the 
promflc made in him for pardon? That profefsion which 
Tanl makes, may here be confidered ; / k^ow in wh&m I 

G have 



Mattfi.tf.jo, 
and i4.j(. 
Rom.4.to. 
Heb.io.2 3. 



a Matth.1.20. 
and 2.S0. 
Joh.17.8, 
b Joh,i.i2, 
Col.t.6. 
Rorp. 5.11.17. 
Hcb.8.ij. 



Johi^.jj, 



S 2 FMth is cert aim in the events not ever in finfe , 



sTim.t.12. 



Faith U cer taint 
in the event ^ net 
txier infenft. 



Job. 3. * J- 



have heieeved^i and lam perfvoadffd that hee is ahU to ks^p 
thatthifig wherevptth JhaveentrHfiedhint, \or delivered 
up to his keepiKg: ] where ic is apparent, cliat tobeleeveis- 
to commit our lelves to Chrifls truft or keeping, or to reft 
our foules upon the performance of the gracious, promiles, 
which God of his rich grace, in Jefus Chrift hath madeun- 
^toii§i-'';^'^3orv ^nirvsriyTfti-nsbimoo . ; t>fn6: Jim 

' :§. 2. ;;Thi§^^fait:hfs:certainerth6ugh mixed iVic^h' triaiiy 
doubtings by reaibn of our weakneffe <: Gertaine and 
affured in regard of the event and: thing beJeeved, 
not in regard of the fenie and feeling of him who 
beJeeveth. Whether, his heart bee ftedfaft in faith, or 
trenibling through much tnbekefe -, ; yet unfainedly 
beleeving with a well-rooted confidence (though with 
much unbeieefe) hee Ml- bee fure of the thin^ pro- 
miled. For the promife is made. good to him that tculy; 
receivethitj notfoFthe ftedfaft manner of receiving^,: feut| 
forthe thing received, which is Chritt.; Now:id6Iiei'a$!a 
trembling palfe^ hand may take the iame thing, which a 
moreftcddie onedothtake, though the manner bee divers, 
the one taking it with fhaking, the other without any; 
trembling : lb ;an-heart of faith , which yet fhakethand) 
doubteth through much unbeieefe:, may take Chrift, is 
well as an heart doth which is more fully perfwaded ; 
'and therefore fhall have the grace promifcd for his fake, 
who is received by faith- The promife is univerfall,^)&<?/5. 
evefbeleevethihChrifiJhallnotperi^, but have everla- 
fling life : it is not, whofoever is fully affured, or certainly 
perfwaded of his falvation, but whofocver unfainedly belee- 
veth in Chrift, fhall beefaved. Now many a poore foule 
niay caft himfelfe upon Chrift:, and lay hold upon him 
with purpofe through Gods grace never to leave him,' as 
being affured without wavering in this particular,: that it, 
is beftboth limply and in companion, to draw neereunto 
6od, and relye upon his grace; and lb in event is fu-re of 
falvation, who yet would give a world to bee afTtired of 
Gods favour, and fully perfwaded that his fins are.pardo-, 

ned.' 



Faith ts cert aim in the event ^ not ever in fenfe, 8 5 



ned. An houle well builded upon a rocke is as" fure as the 
foundation : everie thing banging on a pin or peg, is as fure 
as the pin or peg on which ithangeth : True faith firmely 
groundeth it felfe upon the faithful! promifcs of God, and 
receiveth them as better than life it felfe, from which it wi II 
notbewithdrawne by anycamall allurements: and there- 
fore in event it cannot mifcarrie^ for the ground is firme and 
unchangeable. 

The truth of God in it felfe is more certaine than any 
thing that can bee apprehended by the fenfes, but it is not 
evermore fo apprehended by us : and faith which buildeth 
Upon the infallible truth of God, commingtp him when 
hee calleth, relying upon his grace, becaufe he hathipoken, 
is in event no lefle fure, than the foundation upon which it 
I'eanetfa is certaine and unmoveable ; but in the ienfe of the 
Belecverit isnotalwayesfb: neither are matters of faith 
received by us with fuch certaintie , as are other things 
fubje^k to the fenfes, in themfclves lefle certaine. Things 
are to us according as wee conceive them, which is not ever 
anfwerable to the evidence of the thing in it {kl^e, or to 
the certaintie in regard of the event. Things moftfure in 
themfelves are fometimes but dimmely difcerned of us, 
becaufe Our eye-fight is imperfect ; and things leffe evident 
in themfelves doe appeareto usmoft cleareand manifeft, 
when they come within the compafle of fenfe or reafbn re- 
maining in us. 

Befides, the promifesof mercie in Chrift being the 
higheft and moil fpirituall, it is the hardeft point of fervice 
in Chriflian warfare firmely to beleeve them : andthedaily 
weaknefTes which wee efpie in our felves, the many and 
flrong paifions which Rill warre within us , and many 
times prevaile, doe impel! the mind toditiruft. When a 
Chrifl:ian calleth to mind what llrength worldly allure- 
ments have in him, how often hee yeeldeth unto afTauIcs in 
manypettie temptations, hovvweake andfraile, dull and 
negligent hee is in the duties of Chrifiianitie and his parti- 
cular calling: the confcioufnefle of thele things willi no 

G 2 queftion, 



84 



aTim.J'iSo 



Faith is ceriMnc m the eve0^ not ever in fenfe, 

queftion, trouble the eye of faith. Not that the comfort 
of a Chriftian is grounded upon his rtrengch of grace, or 
any goodworke that is or can beedonebyhim: but be- 
caufe his beleefe in the mercieof God cannot bee greater 
than his ftrength to overc^ome worldly allurements, 
whereby hee might bee vvithdrawne from God> or care to 
yeeld unifbrmchncercjandjionflant obedience to all Gods 
Commandements. 

Againe, it is one thing: to have a thing (urely, another 
thing to knov7 I have it fiircly. Wee feeke many 
things t&iat wee have in our hands • wee have many 
things that wee thinke wee have loft : fb a Beleever, 
who hath a fure beleefe , yet doth not alwaycs know 
that hee fo beleeveth, feekcth but findeth it not; nay, 
thinketh hee is altogether without faith , when hee hath 
it unfainedly. A man unregenerate, that is wholly cor- 
rupt, feeth little or no corruption in bimfelfe : yea, af- 
ter due, ferious,and long examination, many diforders may 
fecretly lurke in the heartof aman (andlified, which hee 
doth not efpie : And is it then any marvell that a true 
Bsleever lliould.bee unable ((bmetimes at leaft) to fay that 
hee doth beleeve? yea,thathee (houldnotfindit, though 
hee make diligent fearch and enquirie into his owne heart 
about it. Looke as children live in the womb> andknovv 
not that they doe live: ioitis with many true beleeving 
fouleSj who long beleeve, before they come to fee them-r 
(elves beleeve, and be able by a reflexed operation of mind 
to (ay, / k^owon whom I have beleeve d. A man of a con- 
trite fpirit, beleeving that his fins are pardonable, carneftly 
deliring remifsionof finnes by the merits of Chrift, and re- 
tting upon Chrift alone for ialvation, afluredly hee recei- 
vethforgivenefTe, although hee be vexed withfcruples and 
temptations, and want the afTurance and perf/yafion in 
himfelfe that his fins bee remitted. For faith is neceflarie 
to falvation : but full afiTurance that I doe beleeve in that 
fo;t, is not of like necefsitie. And if a man may beleeve 
unfainedly, who iz not fully affured that he doth fo beleeve, 

then 



Faith <X4 it jujlifes is a reding on Christ for far don. 8 5 



then faith may bee certaine in the event, when it ii not cer- 
taine to the fenie of the Beleever. 

§. 3, But what faith is neceflarie, to wit, on mans part, 
to Juftification? Is it an afliired perlwafion of our parti- 
cular eMion, or that onrfinnes be already pardoned and 
forgiven ? No : It is one thing to reft on Chrift obeying 
to the curfed death of the croife, that I may obtaine par- 
don and life everlafting from the grace of God ; which h 
thea6l of true beleefe, required to juftification: another 
tobeleevethat I am one of Gods particular ele«ft people, 
and that my finnes are pardoned and done away ; which 
is apriviledgeof grace, granted to him whobeleeveth, is 
fealed by the Spirit, and knoweth afluredly that hee belee- 
vetb. It is not an allien of Chriftian faith, previous or fun- 
damentallto juftification, for a man to beleevc himfelfeto 
be one of Gods eledl : for wee come to know our eIe<i}ion 
by the eft*e6ls thereof, as Faith JuftificatioD,San6lification. 
Wcemuft fir ft read the eft'eds of Gods love in our hearts, 
and fee that hee hath wrought in us the Taving graces of 
faith, love, hope, feare, &c. and (ealed us by the fpirit of 
promife, before wee can come to know his eternall decree 
and purpoie towards us: therefore thebeleefe of our par- 
ticular eledHon is an a6t of faith following juftification, nor 
precedent to it. 

No man is juftified by beleeving himfelfeto beejuft, iior 
pardoned, by beleeving that he is pardoned : but \^ his be- 
leefebetrue, hee muft be truly juft, before be canoroi^ht 
to beleeve himielfe to bee juft ; and a6tually pardoned, 
before hee can be afTured that hee is pardoned. This is the 
order of Ipirituall bleffings conferred upon us in Chrift, 
Faith is the band whereby wee are united unto Chrift; af- 
ter Union followeth Communion with him; Juftification, 
Adoption, San6lification be the benefits and fruits of Com- 
munion ; 'Being made fans by faiths CJod fends forth the 
Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying^ Ahba^Vathery and 
xx\\%Spirit beareth rvitnejfewith ourjpirit, that -mee- are the 
children of God : affurance or certain-e perfwafion that our 

O g finnes 



tatth as tt jufitfi. 

ethitareiiins 

upon C''ftfi t» 

obtaine parion. 

ZnHchM redem^t. 

Ub-x capii tit. 

de fiducia^ col. 

282. 

%Mufi toe. com. de 

Remijf. 

Meijher. dec. j . 

PartnGal.eat>.2. 
!eff.24. Idem de 
Juftif.lib.i.caf. 
10. teff.zij. 
»^lhixitu exetcit, 
f heel. par z>S.ad 

part.r. 

^Kgufl, canfejf. 
art. if. e^ an.2o. 
'Bohemic. confejf. 
art.6. 
Rallicart , confijf. 

iiTt.2Q. 

'Se'^ic. confejf. 
^art.-ii, 

'Bolton Walking 
w'.th Goi^pag. 
320. 

Temble, Plea for 
Grace,/'rfg-.258, 
259,260. 
Rottoc. dejuftifi. 
cat. Hsmin^. 
Syntttgm. Gra- 
dm ad converfis' 
Hem 4^. 



V 



Gal. 4. (J. 
Rom.J.i5,t<f. 



8 6 Faith (vs it juftifies is a refiing on Chrilijor far don. 



Ezek.iS.2i. 
Prov.28.1j. 
Matth.tf. 14,15'. 
Aasi5.3053i. 
Joh.6.a9. and 
II. » J. 
Ads 10.43. 
A(ftsi<f.i». 



' fmnes bee pardoned , followes this wicnefle of" the Spirit , as 
the fruit and efte(5l thereof. In which it is moftmanifeft, 
that faith in Chriftis before juftification in order of na- 
ture, tiiough not in time ; and juftification is precedent to 
the fenfe and feeling of remifsion : and therefore that be- 
lecfe? which is required on our part to juftification, cannot 
be an affurance that our fins be pardoned already ;.unle fie 
the fame thing be before and after it felfe, and a man be par- 
doned before heebeleeve, or aflured that hee is pardoned 
before it bee granted, or that zSt of faith which cannot bee 
but in a perlbn already juftified, muft goe before the pardon 
of finne. 

The promife of remifsion of finnes is conditional!, and 
becommeth not abfolute, untillthe condition bee fulfilled, 
either ad^ually, orindefire and preparation of mind. This 
is the word of gracdBeieeve in the Lord Jefw (^hri^,and 
thou (halt befaved : when doth this conditional! propofi- 
tion become abfohjte ? when wee beleeve. What ? that 
our finnes are pardoned ? No : but when wee beleeve in 
Chrifttoobtaine pardon, which is the thing promifed up- 
on condition of beleefe. Aflurancethat our finnes be par- 
doned is concluded in aprafticall Syllogifme thus ; Hee 
that truly belceveth in Chrift hath obtained pardon of his 
finnes : But I beleeve : Therefore my finnes are f^rdoned : 
where aflurance of the pardon of finne is a conclufion 
drawne from a two-fold ground > the one exprefled in 
Scripture, the other evident (if true) by the teftimony of 
the renewed confcience ; and prefuppofeth that hee belee- 
veth, and is aflured that he doch beleeve. Now if aflurance 
of remifsion be concluded from this ground, that he belee- 
veth, andknoweth certainly that hee beleevethj then the 
beleefe which is required on our parts to juftification, can- 
not bee an aflurance that our fins bee wafhedaway already. 
For if wee take the word Beleeve for.aperfwafion that our 
finnes are done away, then the Syliogilme runneth thus ; 
Hee that is aflured of the pardon of his finnes, his finnes 
are pardoned. But I am aflured. of the pardoaof my 

finnes : 



Faith as it jujlijies ts a refling on ChriJi for -pardon . 87 

finnes ; therefore my finnes are pardoned. 

Faith receiveth the pardon of finne, as it is profered in 
the word of grace, and groundethit felfc foleJy and imme- 
diately upon the promife of God in Jefiis Chrift : But 
grounds whereupon a finner in himfelfe guiltie (Lould build 
aflurance that his finnes are pardoned, without fbme other 
a<Sl of faith comming betwixt the promife and that aflu- 
rance, there is none. The Gofpel offereth pardon to the 
thirftie and burdened} if hee will receive it : aflureth them 
of pardon , who have embraced the promife : but where 
fhallweefind ground, whereupon the guiltie perlbn, who 
beleeveth not to remifsion of finnes, may bee aflured that 
his finnes not a<5tually pardoned , are yet pardoned and 
blotted out of Gods remembrance ? Faith taketh the 
pardon prefented to it in the word of promife, and travel- 
ling with it, bringcth forth afluall remifsion of fin, which 
upon our faith we receive. Aflurance is not before pardon, 
nor a6tuall remifsion before faith, unleflethe effe*^ be be- 
fore the caufe, and the fame thing bee both caufe and effedb. 
To beleeve in Chrift to falvation istoreceivehim. But to, 
receive Chrift as hee is offered unto us in the Golpd, is not 
to bee aflured that our finnes are already pardoned in and 
through Jeftis Chrift , but to reft upon him for pardon. 
Before the 3(9: of juftification, faith hath for obje6l this 
propofition concerning the future. To mee belceving my 
finnes fliallbe forgiven: but after the promife is receivea, 
and pardon obtained^ it hath this propofition concerning 
the prefent or time paftj To me beleeving in Chrift my fins 
are forgiven. 

And thus the horned argument of the Jefuite, whereby 
hee would prove the fpeciall mercie of God not to bee the 
obje6l of faith jiiftifying, and our dodtrine in that point 
tobeegroflc and abfurdjiseafily untied. For thus hereafo- 
neth; Juftifying faith goeth before juftification : But 
faith in thefjieciall mercieof God followeth juftification. 
Forhee that beleeveth the pardon of his fins, is either jaft 
before or notjuft; if juft before, then faith juftifieth not; 
. V G 4 if 



Joh.rji. 
Hetvet. confejji 
art I J. 



Tar.de^Hft^, 
lib. caf. lO. 



'SeUar. di Juf!f. 
lib. 1, cap. m,. 
Self, Ratio fictm- 
dj. Idem detect. 
lib, 4. c^p, 1 1 . 
§ • SeSarii nenri , 



88 Faith as it juftijies is a re fang onChriHfirfardon. 



Church,/2i.J. 

"Belton of wal- 
king with God, 

To beleev^ that my 
fm is now forgi-ven 
inChrifi, ii rather 
ana^of experi- 
ence in a "Bekever 
. Mow jufiifed, than 
; that beleefe which 
isre^uiredto'yu- 
ftification. 
P, Bayn. Help to 
trusHetppineJfe, 
part.z.^ti-^. 
I 



g^faftifjing faith^ 
hath feme a£fs, /u 
: a cau/t dijpofing, 
preparing ^undfit- 
i ting tu to the re- 
ceito^thtst graci- 
euffa-i) ottr.^fheaeby 
i God doth iufltfis 

; and other, as a 
■ fiifccptivecaufe, 
rictiving^embr;i- 
cing^ and en^nying 
thefarne /« tke 
fotm'.r refpeU 
faiikconfiftt not 
ina perfitiafion 
that rve are tl:e 
fans cfGod, Out in 
■'thelatta. Field 
<^ppendix to the 
fifth Boobfyfecond 
part, '^.i^. pa til. 
b Aasis.jr. 
c Rom.?. 20. 



if ur juft ; then beleeving that his finties be pardoned* hee 
belceveth a lye. Our atil wer is, that fpeciall faith hath fun- 
drie a6ls ; but to this puipofe fpecially two. The firii 
heartily to deiire, earne(tly to thirft after, humbly to en-^ 
treat for acceptation, and confidently to reft upon the pro- 
mi ie of free remifsion: The other comforcably to afllire 
and perfvvade, that that is granted, which was defired and 
received in promile. Faith by her firft a6l obtaineth aad . 
receivetji; pardon^ and doth not find us juft, when: wee be* 
gin to beleeve : by her fecOnd ai^, fliee doth not actually 
juftifie, but finding the thing done, certifieth and aiTureth 
us of it. So then ipeciall faith in her fir ft act, is before 
JuftificatiOn, and procureth, obtaineth, and receiveth par- 
don, but then fhee hath not the perfwafionof it as already 
done: Inherfecond a<^ ftiee prefuppoieth the thing done> 
and already obtained, and fo truly perfwadeth the belce* 
ver of it, but procureth not the doing of it. Before Jufti- 
fication faith feeketh and receiveth the pronw^fe of forgivc- 
nefle: after Juftification, it comfortably afiareth <:rf"the 
blefsing obtained : in both it hath for its object the fpeciall 
mercie of God in Chrift. Faith receiveth Chrift oflfered in 
the Golpel, and it perfwadeth and afifureth of pardon in 
Chrift received : both thefebethe afls of faicb> fometimes 
exprefled ^ in the definition of juftifying faith : but if wee 
fpeake of faith as it juftifitth, it peculiarly embraceth 
Chrift with his benefits, as hee is profered in the Word 
and Sacrament. Forfaith, which is. required to juftificati- 
on , is not a perfArafion or knowledge of things already 
poflefted, but a confidence of things promifed and upon 
beleeving to bee obtained, which in the order of caufes, not 
in time, dothgoe before remifsion of fins. Whoknoweth 
not^ that wee muftbeleeve, that wee might bee juftified? 
Juftified, Ifay, and not certified of juftification by thebe* 
nefit o{ faith. The Scripture is cleare ; ^ Beleeve^andthou 
jhalt befaved. ^ Cjod juftijieth the circumcifton by faith ; 
andthe uncircHmciftGn through faith . Doenottbefe, and 
many the like paflages ftiew, that juft jfication j and not 

onely 



Faith as it juftifes is a repyig on Chrilifor far don. 8 p 



oiieiy the {tv\<t and raanifeftacion of juftification already 
obtainedjdoth depend on faith ? 

%. 4. It may beefaid, wee are juftified before in Gods 
decree. Indeed whom God doth jnrtifie, them he decreed 
to juftificfrom all eternitie : but whereas cled^ion is mani- 
fefted by faith, as by its efte6t, juftification doth depend 
uponfaithi as its caufejand wee arejuftified by faith as the 
inftriimenc thereof. Fore!e£^ion is an a6l immanent and 
etemall, but juftification tranfient and in time> inferring 
fome change in the perfon juft:ified> not pbyficall, but mo- 
rall and in relped of ftate, whereby it comes to pafle, that 
the perfon is in another condition and account than he was 
before. 

Inbriefe, the afl of faith pcrfwading of the pardon of 
finne already obtained, by beleeving and glorying in the 
I fenfeof Godsmercie, muftbc diftinguidiedfrom that a6l 
of faith which juftifieth, and is a leaning or flaying upon 
Chrift to obtaine remifsion; the priviledge of grace and 
comfort, which comes to the foule by beleeving, muft bee 
diftisguifhed from the condition of the covenant, which 
1% required on our parts, before wee can obtaine pardon. 
This is the rather tobeenoted, becaufe the maine cavils of 
thePapifts againft ourdo6^rine touching particular confi- 
dence in Gods mercie, and certaintie of falvation, are 
grounded upon this farmife , that wee make that faith, 
which is an aflured and certaine perfwafion of our parti- 
cular cle(5lion,juflification, and falvation, to bee the fole 
caufe, to wit, on mans part, of juftification: whereas 
juftiiication it felfemuftgoe before the afTurance of it, and 
fuch perfons onely can have true aflurance and certaintie of 
their jurtification, eledion, and falvation, who doe un- 
fainedly beleevc, and know aflijredly that they beleeveas 
they ought 4 And it makes much for the comfort of many 
faithfull people, who commit their foulesunto Chrift Je- 
fasjand depend upon him and no other for falvation, who 
yet are much perplexed, as if they had no faith, nor could 
doe ought pleafing unto God, becaufe they want this cer- 
taine 



§ 4. 



Fifbcrs (fnftoer to 
certaine articles. 



po 



Hew faith ajfureth offahatm. 



Haw faith ajfa- 
rctb ef/alvatioo. 



I Job. 4.15. and 
j.U-jnd 5.13. 



taineafluranceof theremiffionofthcirfinnes; whereas if 
they had learned what it is to beleeve unto juftification, 
ana trutt unto*the proraife for pardon, they might for the 
prefent take comfort in this , that, notwithftanding their 
feare, they relye upon Chrift, and commit their foules unto 
God, as to their faithful! Redeemer, and might with more 
eafeand fpeed grow up unto the defired comfort and aflu- 
rance, when they (hould diftin6tly perceive and dilcerne 
the grounds of faith and affurance, and by what fteps and 
degrees they muft climb from the one unto the other. 



CHAP. VIII. 

Bj faith a trueheleevermay he certawe and infallibly 

affffred of the remijfion ef his ftnnes and 

eternallJalvatiQn* 

§. I. T T is a Principle, common amongft our Adverfa- 
iries, thateverie conclufion ifluing from one pro- 
pofition revealed expreflely in Scripture, and another 
clearelyand certainly knowne otherwife, and by evident 
and good confequent added unto it, belongs to faith, and 
isbeleeved by no other habit than of faith. As for exam- 
ple J All the dead fliall rife. T*eter is dead : therefore p<f- 
ffrOiallrife. The conchifion is Theologicall, and belongs 
to faith, though it bee not expreffely written that l^eter is 
dead, or that heefliall rife againe. So it is in this prefent 
matter : All that beleeve fhallbee faved: thispropofition 
is of faith, becaufe it is immediately revealed and ex- 
preffely written. But I beleeve ; this is certaine by the 
teftimony of the renewed confcience, to him that hath pro- 
v-edhimfelfe to be in the faith. The conclulion. Therefore 
I fhall bee faved, is certaine by faith : becaufe it is inferred 
of one thing beleeved, and another that is evident. And al- 
though the Holy Ghofc, not tying himfelfe to termes, doe 

fbmetime 



Jiorvfdth ajfureth offalvation. 



91 



fomctime call it knowledge ; yet calling it againe heleeving 
aIone,or beleeving and knonvwg^k is manifeft fuch a Ivnow- 
Icdge is intended, asnotonely flovvesfrom the principles 
of faith, but alfo is reduced to the fame habit. For with 
what other eyes canthefoule behold the heavenly light 
of the Goipel? How fliallthat confidence, affurance, or 
certaintie, which is created by the mixture of the light of 
the Scripture, with the light of a good confcience renewed 
by the Holy Ghoft, belong to any humane knowledge, 
when the Scripture faith exprcflely, Thepromife of the Spi- 
rit is received by faith ; and wherefoever in all the Bible, 
the Golpell is revealed, men are called upon tobeleeve ? 
And if there be granted a certaintie of a mans owne fpeciall 
ftanding, which certaintie arifes from the Scriptures, one 
ground thereof being a propofition or fentence immedi- 
ately divine, the other inferred and concluded from that 
which is divine ; it muftbee granted alio, that it is a worke 
oreffedtof faith. The Scripture reports how many of the 
children of God -were tried by mocking and fcomging, by 
bands and imfrifonment, they were fionedy hewen afttnder, 
tempted ; they wandered up & downe defiitme & ap[ied : 
AH which, the Apoftle faith, they did by faith and confi- 
dence of the promifes ; and yet their affurance was no 
other, nor otherwife begotten, than the ordinarieaflurance 
of allGods children, which is concluded by joyning the 
light of their confcience, kindled by the Holy Ghof^, and 
ruled by the Scriptures, to the immediate light of the con- 
ditions revealed in the Scriptures. Faith which is be'ee- 
ved, or the dodlrine of faith, is written in the Word of 
God, the holy Scriptures : but faith whereby weebeleeve, 
orof the heart, is written, engraven, roored in the heart, 
out of the Word ofGod, by the Holy Ghoft ; and knowne, 
notbeleeved, by theteflimony of the renewed confcience, 
enlightened by the Spirit, and diredledbytheWord : for 
the rule by which amandifcerneth himfelfe to beleeve, is 
the doarineof Gods Word , declaring the qualitie of 
faith: And the certaintie or affurance , which a jufl per- 

fon 



Gal. 3.14- 



Heb. 



ii.3<: 



9^ 



Whdt manner of ajfurance is obtained. 



what manner of 
ajfuTMee i) ebtai- 
Hfd. 



§. 3. 



fonhathof his particular juftification, depends upon the 
nghc application of two propofitions; one immediately 
divine and c^tainely beleeved, Whof.ever hleeveth in 
Mm ChrtfiihaUeJaved', the Other inferred and concln- 
ded from that which is divine,certainely knowne according 
to the direction of the word. 5/^^ /^f/f^z;^. ' ^ 

§. 2. This aflurance is not fuch, as whereby a man is 
made abfolutely out of all doubt : but fuchasmany times 
IS a^aulted, and fliaken with many difficulties, fcares,and 
doubts: which notwithftanding arilenot from the nature 
ot faith,asifitought tobe; butfrom the frailtie and cor- 
ruption of ourevill nature, by reafon whereof faith is not 
fuch as It ought to be. It i^ not the office of faith to cher^fh 

andmaintaine fuch feares and doubts, buttoreriftthem,to 
hght againft them, and fo much as is poffible to cxpell them, 
and drive them out. But y^t by reafon of the ftrength of 
our naturall corruption, and the weaknefTe of our faith, we 
attainenottothis; and howmuchtbe weaker our faith is, 
fo much are wee thefurtherfromit. Againe, thedayesof 
faith areasthefeafonsoftheyeare, fom^'efaire, fomefoule; 
one while a Sun.a.ine fummer , another whii; a long and 
ted ouswinter, fometimesnomorcbutafiorme andLay. 
Our eyes are not alwayes alike intent to the Word of God- 
wee doe not alwayes alikeconceive the promifes of God • 
nay, temptations fometimes hide them out of our fight! 
The effects of grace doe not alwayes appeare the fame 
yea fometimes they feeme to be4 qufte overwhefmed 

Zr/'^'r-'f '^'^^!,- ^"^^" "^^"^^ itfelfe there isavo- 

unrarie flirinkrng and relinquiOiing of the comfort of faith 

through the feeds of unbeleefe thlt originally are f^wen 

and'.rL?iiri^''''''"^''u^-^'.'^'"''^ of remiffion of finnes 
^nrh'fr R ' ''''^°"' which juftperfons atraine unto up- 
on their Repentance, Faith, and Obedience, is not equall 
vhiVhT'"''"^ firmnelTeofaffent, to that aSce 
which they have about the common obje^ of faith; to 
wit, concernmg the articles of Creation, Incarnation, Re- 
iurreiflion, 



what manner of ajfurance is eht dined. 



93 



{airc6\ion, or the like: becaufe thefe articles are totally 
and immediately revealed in holy Scripture ; but chat his 
finnesin particular are remitted, depends upon an argu- 
ment; whereof onely one partis immediately the Word 
of God> and the other a coIle(5i;ion arifing upon refle61:ion, 
andoblervationoF a mans owne qualities and a6lions, and 
the conclufion is more orleffe certaine, according to the 
condition o£ the fecond propoiliion. It is a thing more 
certaine and evident to faith, that God gave Chrili todye 
for {inners, that whofoever beleeveth in himfhonld notfe- 
rijh, but have life everUfiing , than it is to my confcience, 
that I beleeve with well-rooted and all-fealbning confi-' 
dence : I have greater aflTurance that God is faithfull 
and true, than that my heart is upright : Therefore I 
have greater aflTurance that the true Beleever (hall 
bee l&ved, than that my {qI^q am received unto mercie. 
Albcii faith doe Ibmetimes itagger and waver , as tou- 
cbingthevcrie principles tbemfelves and immediate Word 
of God; yet becaufe the truth and certaintie thereof is 
more eafily and better conceived, they are for the moft 
part more familiarly and readily beleeved. But the con- 
jcJufions, becaufe.of themfelves they are unknowne, and 
have their light onely from the principles, are not fb 
firmely apprehended as the principles themfelves, vvhileft 
doubts haply may becaft, left there bee any errour com- 
mitted in the application and ufe thereof. It is a prin- 
ciple delivered for afTurance of falvation, .S^/^d-z/tf in the 
LordJefmChrifiiafjdthoHfhaltbeJaved. Hereupon the 
faithfull man inferreth to himfelfe, I beleeve in the Lord 
Jefus Chrift, therefore I fhall bee fived. In this either 
confuledly or expreffely inferred, hee comforteth himlelfe, 
and rejoyceth in^God, and in hope thereof cheartfully 
ferveth God, calleth upon his name, and in patience ex- 
pef^eth the revealing of his falvation. And ytt oftentimes 
it falkth out, that hee queftioneth his faith, and not feeing 
fucheffeils thereof, as hee (uppoieth there ought to bee, 
maketh doubt left haply hee bee deceived i and though the 

principle 



P4 



The fever all efiates ef Beleevers. 



§.4- 

Thfffvsralifiates 
of ieleevers, 
Efav 44.5. 
Macth.12.20. 



Pfal.31.22.anJ 



Phil.i.ip.-'o, 
sTiir.f.i?. 



principle be true by which he firft beleeved^yet he isjealous 
lelt he have mifapplyed ic to himfelfe. 

§. 4. This will appeare in theTeverall ftaces or forts 
of true Beleevers. There is a ftate wherein faith is a fncioa- 
king weeke, defiringthat it could beleeve, rather than get- 
ting up tofeeleit felfebeleeve, difcoveringic felfeby ear- 
ned fighs and groanes for mercie, and hanging upon 
Chrift, though the Beleever can fcarce tell whether hee reft^ 
upon hinior no: This fa:ith is certaine in event, but €hc'> 
Beleever in this ftate is farre from particular aflurance of his 
falvation. 

Againe, though faith bee not troubled, but doe quietly 
ftay on Chrift, and tafte God eood in letting them find 
pe-ace with him ; yet fuch is the ififancie of ipirituali uader- 
ftanding in Chriftians, efpecially now firft converted, that 
they doe not returne into themfelves.and judgeof that they 
doe J and of the great confequence of that they doe. Hence 
it is that they will tell you, they find God good to them, 
and goe on cheerefully in duties for the prefent: but they 
come not to behold the ftabilitie of their falvation. The 
child lives, before he knowesthat he doth Hvg ; and knovves 
hee doth live, before hee knowes the caufeof life,or thcin'-': 
heritance whereunto hee is borne : and fb it may beeand is 
with a Beleever. ' 

There is a ftate in which faith is excrcifed with temptati- 
ons from unbeleefe or otherwiie ; by which oppofition the 
fouleis kept from obtaining this certaintie, being encoun- 
tredvvith doubtfull appearances, which it cannot well an- 
fvver and cleare for the prefent. 

There is a ftate wherein faith is now growne up, and 
hath either out-wrefted, or otherwiie is exempted from 
knowing fuch temptations ; in which condition the faith- 
full doe perfvadethemfelves,-that Gods mercie/ and truth, 
and power, fhallcarrie them thorowunto falvation. But 
when now our conicieftces (hall come to teftifie thorow 
faith and experience this happie eftate, wee are fubjet^ by 
negledling meanes , laying downe our watch, -giving the 

reines 



The fever all cjlates ofBeleevers. 



9') 



reines to . our lufts, or by fecret defertions ere- while to lofe 
for a time this comfortable perivvafion ; the Spirit nocipea- 
Icinginus byhisJight as heretofore, and our confciences 
and faith fo hurt and wounded, that the a6>ions of them are 
troubled and depraVed,as.we fee the like be&illeth thenatu-. 
^rajl fenfes an,drea|bn. W ce fee, through melancholy what 
..realoii-i^onQes to imagine, how that fome fhould feeke to kill 
II?, yyho never thought us hiirt-.: Howthe eye chinks ic Teeth 
things yellow and red, when they are nothing fo; the tafte 
thingsbitter, when they are Iweet : So the fight of faithand 
€onfciencej ^ jien. nothing but finjguiltjWrac h,angr ie deier- 
tiqnoyejrfriay k, it feemethtofeafiveric thing ?fojr thetime, 
^of ^li(^e\f olour to thofe things- Vvherevyith. ic is'pdffefled. 
T^ius Sometimes theftrong faich isChaken greatly, and 
.{^rongly aflaujtedr fo that hee that imfpeakably rejoyced in 
^ ialvat/on of the I^ord, by haftie cogitations mbioiight to 

-, ., ,-A,nct if faifh^elcfpei^jiefe-rOGks^j may hotyet a morefe- 
rious exatmnation of-ouf wayes, and thorow-fight of our 
nakednefle,imperfe6tiQnSj arid manifoldtranfgreffions ; the 
ftjrengtb of our lufts, the diibrder of our paHions, our daily 
failings, and that great weaknefle whti(jh in trials wee fhall 
find in ourfelves : may not thcfe things, I lay, raife feare 
in the heart of a found Beleever, as not altogether without 
thereach of pofTjble danger, without repentance and grea- 
ter conftancie in performing allChriftian duties, than hi- 
therto hechath made proofe of j fpecially if the apprehen- 
fioaof the multitude and hainoulhenb of his fins be quicke- 
ned by aflflii£lions,orthe4iveIy cogitations of the terrors of 
the day of judgement ? Nevertheleffe, as a child affri.^hted 
runneth to the fathety looking for defence and help of him, 
even loin the middertof all feares, temptations, difficul- 
ties, and diftrefles,- faith is ftill runtiing unto God, ftill im- 
portuning him, calling upon him^ expoftulating wirhhim, 
caftingitfelfe i^ill upon him, depending upon his aid, and 
expedting of him^h^t tilings tepipe otherv'vifcthan pre- 

fcnr.lytheyare.vjc77 f. r:"i s'-^rli rff-'^ Ma- 

§. ^. Thus 



"I •.m 



Pfal 31.22. 



96 



K^jfurance offalvation-maj be obtained. 



Faith of adherence 
ftr onger and more 
uecejjarie thnn 
faith of evidence. 



TufJiibleafu. 
ranee offatvaTion 
r/iaybi obtained. 



§. 5 . Thus faith of adherence is ftronger than faith of 
evidence; and beieefe in Chriftfor r€imi(lidn,than affuraHce 
of pardon and forgivenefle : And as faith in Cbrift is ftron- 
ger than particular certaintie of our falvatibn; ib is ic 
more neceflarie. For beieefe in Chrift is ablbkitely necef- 
faric to remifsion of finnes, irt all them that bee of age and^ 
difcretion: but affurance comes not atfirftwhen wee be-; 
leeve, butby little and little as God feeth it reqtiifite, ac- 
cording to the triall hee hath appointed to make of us. 
Without faith in Chrift, as the onely author of (alvation, 
and fole end of faith, with whom our 'foules feeke petfefii; 
union, it is impofsible to pleafe God ; no a5^idn, thou^j 
in it felfe never lb good or holy, it truly acceptable, unlefle 
itbcquickened andenlivedby this faith; But many poore 
foules,that want aflurance of Gods fpeciallfavOBTj are ten- 
derly beloved of him, as hcires of falvatibn, and their ^50t| 
works accepted in Jefus Chrift. A Chtiftian of an hum- 
ble and broken fpirit, denying hirnfelfe, and renouncing 
the world, beleeving that his finnes ate pardonable, and 
earneftly defiring remifsion of fins by the merits of Chrift ; 
reftingupon Chrift alone for falvation, andjoyning, with 
this defire and affiance, the fincere, unpartiall pra^ice of 
: obedience to all Gods Commandements, according co that 
' meafure of grace which hee hath received, without que- 
ftion hee (hall receive the inheritance of eternall glorie, 
although hee may bee fcrupulous in hirnfelfe, wanting this 
' perfA^afion and aflhrance that his finnes are pardoned. 
I And yet becaufe God hath commanded us to labour for 
(the perfediionof all graces, wee are fure this muft bee in- 
treated for, and have a promife that it Ihall bee gran- 
ted, as God feeth meet, both for the time and meafure 
of it, 

§. 6. That not onely Ibmeuncertaine hope and dimme 
fight of Gods favour, but even aflurance is to be fought, and 
may bee obtained , is thus manifeft. Faith may receive 
what the Word doth teftifie; for the Word of God is 
the objeifl of faith. But there is a word teftifying thus 

much, 



k^jfurance offalvation may beobtaimd. 



91 



much, that my particular perlbn beholding the Sonne, and 
beieevingon nimsfhall/'^':/^ eternallUfe^ andbegraifedup 
At the la^ day ; that there is xo condemnatien to me being 
inChriB. Neither could John with thefairhfuli beleeve 
Gods love towards them in particular , if fbrac word 
did not fliew it. For the Papills thenr:/clves will not fay, 
that all of them were privil-edged with fingular revela- 
tion. 

Our Adverfarics reply, that there is no Word of God, 
faying, CV«<?//>«jbeleeve thou that thou fhalt befaved :and 
where there is no word, there is no faith : for theie two | 
are relatives. ThiscaviH is eafily removed: for that can- 
not bebcleeved as out of the Word of God, which is not 
found inthe Word of God expreflely, orbyconlequencc; 
but whatfoevcr is found there expreflely* or may evidently ] 
by dire^ confequence be deduced thence, that may be be- j 
teeved as out of the Word of God. Now howlbever ic 
be notfaid in fo many fy llables, 'Peter, Thomoiy Come tins , 
thyfinnes are remittee! to thee beleeving; yet evidently fo 
mucb may bee concluded out of thole -gcncrall promii^s, 
Everieman thatbeieevethfliall have eternalllife : for the, 
univerlail doth include its particular. Therefore the meflen- 
gers of the Lord of Hofts doe give notice to their Congre- 
gacionsj that the matter which they proclaime in the 
Name of the Lord,doth concerne them and everie of them, 
faying in effe£l. To you is the Kvordof this [alvaiion fent. 
What they fay to all men, they fay to everie man : what 
to penitents , to everie penitent ; wliat to beleevers j to 
everie beleever; what to finners and ungodly, to everie 
finner. God gave his Law to all I[rael, fpeaking to all, as 
if hee had fpoken namely and particularly to everie one, 
ThoMJhalt have no other Godr,&c. May nor, ought nor 
man to inferre thence , I muft have none other Gods, 
&c. Thepromifeof theGofpel runnesthus, IfthonjhAit 
confejfe tvith thy month the Lord Jeftu, and beleeve in 
thy heart that God rat fed himf'omthedeadi thou (halt be 
yaved. Is not this ipoken to everie man particularly? May 

H not 



Macth.i.zt. 

Ads :0«fj. 

t ThcflT.i.io. 

LuJc.^.roir. 

Efa 9.6. 

I Job. J. I J. 

JoIi.6jf. 

ijoh.j.10,13. 



ttb. J . cap.i, § . 
Trima ratio. 



Aasi3.2tf. and 
3.25. and 3.3S. 
^ Cor. 5.30. 



Exod2n.r,3. 



Roin.ro.p. 



I 98 



^Jfurance of fahaticn may he obtained. 






Joh-ao.aj. 



Pfal.23 1. 
Job i?.2.5. 



Pfal.tc3 3,4. 



Pf3I.iu5.17- 

Micah 7. J 9. 

RoiTUIMi. 

Matth.s:? 17. 



not hee as out of the Word inferre, If I beleeve I (hall be 
favcd ? Our Saviour Chrift had faid nothing namely to 
Paul and Siloi as touching the Jayler, that if hee did be- 
leeve hee fhculd bee (avcd : but, out of that univerlall, 
fVhofoever beleevethfhallheefaved,xhty proclaime com- 
fort to him in fpeciallj Beleeve thon, afidthoufhalt bee 
faved. There is nothing found in Scripture exprefleiy tou- 
ching this or that mans reliirre6tion in particular : is it not 
tbentobebeleevedoutof the Word? The Scripture faith 
to him that beleeveth, Thou fhalt inherit eternall life, as 
much as it doth to any particular man now living, Thou 
fhalt rife againe. Becaufe our Saviour faid to the Apo- 
i\leSifVhofeJi»s foeverj/ee remit, they are remitted,o\xc Ad- 
verlaries (though falfly) would collect j that their Priefts 
have power to ablblve a man from all his finnes. Doc they 
know afluredly , that what was fpokcn to the Apoftles, : 
was fpokcn alfo to theirPricfts, though there bee no parti- 
cular mention of them in theGofpell; and will they not 
allow us to inferre a particular from a generall ? David 
could fay, The Lord is mjfhepherd ; Job, Ik»ow that my 
%e^deemerliveth: which they beleeved outof tfieWord, 
grounding themfelves upon the promiles,,of mercie. And 
I wee now living by the lame faith, having the fame precious 
; promifcs, being, led by the. fame Spirit, may out. of the 
I Word of life be aifured that our (inncs are forgiven and co- 
; vercd. Moreover, everiefaithfull. foulein particular doth 
; find, heare,and read in the Word, whoforgiveth all thine 
■ iniquitieS'^andhealeth all thine infirmities. To everie faich- 
full fonle in fpeciall the Lord faith, /, even I am hee that 
hlotteth cut thine iniqnittes for mine otvne fake-)<ind remem- 
\ her thy finnes no more. This he fpeaketh to Hngular belec- 
, vers, nottofbme perfons only, asitis evident in that the 
I Scripture doth in univerfall repeat the fame thing. What 
j our Saviour faid to the young man, Ifthott vonldlt enter 
into life, k^efethe CommandementSi the Papifts teach that 
h fpokcn to all men; and if a man fulfill that condition, 
hee may beleeve to bee faved. Looke how they know, the 

word? 



^ffur^ncioffdvAtionmAj beobmned. 



99 



words Ipoken to the young man (o many hundred yeeres 
pafttobedirefteduntothem : by the fame rule may eve- 
ry faithfull (bule intereft himTelfe in all the gracious and 
lovely (peeches wherewith God from time to time hath 
comforted his people, and take untohimfelfethofepromi- 
^zi, anlwcrs,andaflurancesthat God hath at any time made 
and given unto them, refblving of all the reft, that which in 
one cafe the Apoftle exemplifyeth of that that was written 
of the Juftificatioh of yf^rrf/&/»w,that thofe things were not 
written for them only,but for them <il(o who beUeve as they 
haddoKt. 

The wOrd then (peaketh in particular to them that be- 
leeve; but can a Chrirtian know andbeeafluredthathe 
doth truly beleeve ? Such as truly beleeve, may know they 
beleeve^as he that hath a jewell in his hand, may know that 
he hath it. Paul did kjtow on whom hee had beleevcd : the 
pooremaninthc Gofpelcryeth, Lord I beleeve .- David 
(tithtrbeUevedj and therefore I ffake ', Hezekiah pray- 
eth , Lord remember me how I have walked before thee in 
truth , and with aferfeSt heart : John concludeth thus. 
Hereby wee know that he abideth in its j even by the Spirit 
which he hath given us. How could we fay every one We 
beleeve,if we might not know it ? Can wee Ipeake that tru- 
ly, whereofwc can have no certaintie ? When I fee one, or 
truft to a mans word promifing me this or that, I know I fee 
him, truft to him and reft on him for that he hath promifed: 
Shall I by faith fee Chrift the Sonne, and reft on him, and 
yet know no fuch thing ? Carnall confidence may be dilcer- 
ned , why then fhould it be impoflible for a true beleever to 
know that hee doth beleeve? The Spirit of man difcerneth 
what is in man : he knoweth what is in himfelfe, though not 
ever the meafure or quantitie thereof Hee that loveth his 
brother, knoweth the love wherewith hee loveth him : and 
hethatbeleevethinGod,mayknow the faith wherewith 
he beleeveth. 

Many beguile themielves , while they ftand in opinion 
they doe beleeve, and beleeve not at all. What then ? Shall 

H 2 hee 



Roin.4.2}. 



* Tim.x.ia. 

Mar 9. 24^ 
Pfal.ii6.io. 
1 C»r.4.ij. 
Efayj3.j,4. 
I Job. J ^4. 



I John J. i^. 



tCor 



IQO 



i^ffmance cffdvati'm mxj hi ohatmA. 



•Zellar.de f lift. 
liS'.'^.caf.S fe(f. 
Hujtts urgur/iea- 
tis. 

Pral.7-To. 
To be in tb'' faith, 
ft to have faith in 
them- 
:RoiTi.8.i.S:5.f- 

iRom.8.8. 
I* 2 Cor. 13- 5>^" 
Ephcf. J- 1/-. 



''Rhtm avnot.in. 



hee that heleeveth unfaine^iiy bee altogether unceiftaine, 
whether heebeleeve , or no ? T^^re it that homfieth when 
his fofile hath nought : yt% men-whom God hath bleffed 
with abundance, may know that they bee rich. Many are 
deceived in n^atters of faith and true worGup of God ; n>all 
not aChriftian then bee certaine of his Religion-;^ A man 
that dreameth of honour and promotion:, pietuieaiid abun- 
dance j may live in infamie an4 dilgraee, penwrie and 
hunger : and yet they that bee promoted to honour, and 
live in plenty , niay afilireQly bee perlwaded of what God 
hath given them. Some mens fenfes are deluded, fi>all 
every man therefore bee in fuipenceof whatfoever hee leeth 
or heareth ? He that is falfly pei^fwaded of his good eftate 
and ftrong faith , deceiveth tus owne foule : (hall he there- 
fore that unfainedly embraceth Cbrift, andrefteth upon 
him , be ever at uncertainties y whether hee doth beleeve 
or no? 

The heart unr^nerace is deceitful! and wicked above 
all thirds : the heart regenerate is true and faithful! : In re- 
fpe5^ of the exadl: mealure c^ grace and ftrength , the re- 
generate are oft deceived; but of the truth ofgrace they 
may bee adured : in fome particular relblutions they may 
bee ignorant of their owne hearts ; bvit of ihcir ge.nerail 
purpoie they may firmclyaFid truely be perfvaded, I^omI 
bids vs "^ prove and trie ourjelves , whether wee have not 
that f^ith, by which Chrirt dwelleth in our hearts, which 
workeih by love, which is the fai'h of fuch as are accepted 
with God 5 are purged from their finne, and are become 
Temples of the Holy Ghoft : intimating that by examinati- 
on it is to be difcerred and known whether we beleeve. And 
if we may know that wee have faith, whereby Chrif^ dvvel- 
leth in us by his Spirit, and we in him^thea may wee know 
alfo that wee have repented truly of oup fins ; for faith aad 
repentancebeinfeparable companion Sjand whofo hath the 
one , hee cannot be deftirute of the other. It isone thi ng to 
repent, another to beleeve : but thefe two live and dwell 
together, that if onebe wanting there is neither in rruth. 

They 



K^jfurame offalvAtifin may be chained. 



toi 



They objed); further. It fufficeth not to beleeve unto fal~ 
vation, but a man muft beleeve with his whole heant: which 
no man,fay they>can certainly affirme. Indeed faith fincere, 
upright, and well-rooted, is required on our part to jufti- 
fication ; but not abfolutely perfe(Sl in degree , without 
weakneffe or defeat : And this may bee knownc by him 
that hath it; elfe could not the Eunuch have anfwered, / 
hlcevei nor David have promifed, Ivfillfraifethee, O 
L«rdt with my whole hearu with my whole he Art have I 
[ought thee. But in thefe and fuch like paflajges, the 
« whole heart fioteth the integritie •> and uprigbtneflc 
of thcfoule, not the perfe(^ion of grace without any in- 
firmitieor defe6l; as on the contrarie, a fraudulent or hy- 
pocriticall heart is c^XXt-di <= an heart divided ; and the whole 
heart is cy^^^^d toafained and hypocriticall heart, as the 
Lord complaineth by his Prophet, <* Judah hath not mnr' 
rxdnntomewith her whole hearty but fainedly. And thug 
weefhutupthisfirfirearoD. That which the Scripture faith 
to pcrtaine to all and fingular Beleevers, chat everieBe- 
leever may certainly aflTure himfelfe of by faith : But the 
Scripture fheweth remiffion of finnes to pcrtaine to all and 
everie Bele^ef. 

§. 7. Againe, What wee are taught to askeof God in 
prayer, anS have a promiie to obtaine, that by faith wee 
maybeeaffurcdto obtaine. For God that hath comman- 
ded'os to pray, and dire^bed what to aske according to his 
will, and promifed to grant the defires of them that call 
upon him in truth according to his Commandement, hee 
will not deniehis ptomife, nor goe backefrom the thing 
that hee hath fpoken. But wee are commanded to aske the 
pardon and forgivenefTeof ourHnnes, and have apromi/e 
to bee heard in that which weedefire. Therefore by fiith 
wee maybee^fTuredofthe particular remiffion of our of- 
fences. 

Our Adverfaries except, that what wee are affured of al- 
ready, that wee cannot aske of God in prayer ; and there- 
fore i£ wee be afliired of pardon, wee muft not pray for par- 

H ^ don. 



lih.^.cap.S. 
AdiiZ.i'J. 



I Tim.j.j; 



PGIjiy 10 f^, 

a Pfal.ir^.2. 

Deut4.29. 

Jeremapij. 

X ChroD.15.1j. 

Proy.j.j. 

bPial.7j.i.and 

c P/aLij.2. 
d Jncm.j.io, 
Iuk.7.50. 
Marlc.i $.!(;, 



5- 7. 

MaTk.11.34. 

ijoh.y.14,15' 

Pfal.|»J.i«. 



lii.^, cap.il, 
TutfTta, 



I.02 



{^Jfurmce of falvation may he obtained. 



In vphtt ftnfefoT' 
jftveneffe of fins « 
t« Irt frayed for. 



a Sam.raia.iS- 



Plal.51.1,2. 



don. What, is k lawfull in no fenfe to pray/or that where- 
of wee are afVured ? DnvU prayed to God for the pardon 
of thofe (inpesj which hcebeleeved by faith were forgiven 
(for (b was hee aiTured from the Lord by the Prophet Na- 
than) unlefie wee fhall chargehim with infideiitie,for not 
beleeving the Prophet ; fincethefpeech wasfoplaine, that 
bee could not but underHand it. / have finned againfl- the 
Lord: Aplaine and trueconfefTion. The Lord alfo hath 
^ut aveay thyfinnet thoujhalt mtdje: Asplaincand cer- 
taine an abfolution. 

WillourAdverfaries come in here with their vainedi- 
ftin£lion of guilt and punifhment, of temporall and eter- 
nal!? Iftheydocj it is to nopurpofe. For whatfoever the 
relf>e6>s were, in which JD4<z//W prayed for the forgivenefle 
of his finnes, once this is cleare, that he prayed for it : and 
then what remaines, but that our Adverlaries muft con- 
demne him of finning grievoufly, in asking God pardon for 
thofefins, which hee beleeved by faith were forgiven him ; 
or of infidelitie for not beleeving : or t\^t |;rant it Jawfull 
in fome regard to crave pardon, when it is already granted, 
and beleeved to be fo ? But further it is manifeft, that both 
guilt and punifhment were remitted : becaufe the Prophet 
precifely mentions both parts. The Lord hath taken away 
thyfinfie; There is the guilt wipt away. Than Jhalt mt 
dye ; There is the punifhment forgiven, the whole punifh- 
ment, the whole penaltieoftheftatuce concerning finne. 
And yet nothing is more cleare,thanthatZ)^z'/<5/ begsparr4 \ 
don both of the guilt and punifhment of his offences, and 
that God would make him fee and feele this forgivenefle of 
his everieday more and more. 

Neither yet doth it follow, that then prayer for forgive- 
nefTe is an effe^ of a weake hit\\ ; becaufe though our 
faith were f^rong, yet the feeling of our owne wretched- 
nefle, the jufl defert of finne, and the wrath of God due 
unto us, would wring out fuch entreatie from us : as wee 
fee the extremitie which our Saviour Chrill was in upon 
the crofle, made him cry outfb mainely, Mj Gdd,my God, 

why 



{jy^Jfurance offalvation mdy be obtained.^ 



103 



Zecho IS, 10. 



why hafi thoHJorfaken me ? albeit he was fully affutcd that | Match. 17.^6- 
God neither had, not would utterly forfake him. 

Againe, bne chiefe reafon and end of our praying to 
God for pardon is, that wee may alwaies acknowledge, 
that every fmne committed by us deferves everlafting dam- 
nation of it felfe, and (hould everlaftingly be punifhed , if 
that God had not accepted ourSaviourChriftsfatisfadhon 
for us: By which though we are freed ifwee reft on him by 
faith , vet both it is our duty according to Gods Comman- 
dement tofueforpardon for his fake; and in truth if wee 
doe it not , wee have no reafon to perfwade our felves that 
our finncs are pardoned. For howfocver it is true, that 
Chrift our Head hath paid the price ofourranfome, yet it 
is alfotrue,thatwe every day deferve damnation, and mult 
entreat God for pardon, that (o wee may come to that 
aflurance, which the Lord hath enjoyned us to labour and 

(eeke for. 

The Spirit that leadeth us to Chrift , doth ftirre us up 
with all earneftneffe and confidence to crave pardon and 
foreivenefle ofour finnes. Thefe two, Confidence and 
Praver,God hath joyned together,and no man can or may 
put them afunder. Ourfaithaffnrethusnotofforgivenefle 
offinnes without prayer, but that God forgiveth us when 
wee pray : Nor is this heavenly pledge , while dormant, 
though truly dwelling in our foules, immediately apt to 

^"ilat'tersof faith bee of divers forts : Some fully .aaed 
and done already, andthofeweeonelybeleeve, wedoe 
not pray for them; as the creation of the World, the 
birth, and death and refurredion of Chrift , and other fuch 
like: Other- fomearebeleeved,as defigned, prorrifed, and 
in a fort conferred , but not yet fully a^ted and effedted 
to us : which wee fobelceve by faith, as that ftillvve pray 
for them, till they bee fully accompliflied andeffed^ed. 
ThePapifts confefle , that Teter, T4«/, and i.>me other 
particular perfons , to whom our Saviour faid, Thyfimes 
ate fomven thee, were aflured of the remifiion of their 
■' ^ H 4 iniquities: 



':BeUar.do Ju^' 
lib. ■i. cap. II. 
Rhem.'i'viet.i)} 
^ow. S.58.§.8. 

Macth.9.1. 



104 



^ffur4nc€ effdvMkn maj he^^kaimd: 



». 



I John I. ?}?• 

3 Sam.ii.i;, 
I J. wich PfaL 
51. 1)^.&C. 



iniquities : and yet they ceafcd not to pray, Forgive us e^r 
trefpttff'es. Doe they not fee then , that prayer for pardon 
will ftand well with aflurance of remifTion ? And why 
doe they condemnc that in us, which was well done by 
others ? 

Morcdiftinfily j we continue daily to askeofGodfor- 
givencfTe of fins , according to the direction and comman- 
dement of our Saviour Chrirt,in fundry reipedls. 

Firft , becaufe notwithftanding former aflurance of pac- 
donjifwee take our eye oft'Chrift, the remembrance and 
conicicnceoffinnc muft needs trouble and diiquiet : fothat 
wee rauft iftili looke to Chrift for forgivenefle, and faith 
lookes unto him as a Petitioner. 

Secondly, we pray daily that we may have greater aflii- 
rance, and more comfortabJe feeling of Gods love. Our 
faith being weake giveth butwcakeaflurance, and there- 
fore we begge daily to be fettled and eftabliflied more and 
more in the aflurance of his favoia:. 

Thirdly , we finne every day jand therefore aske pardon 
daily tbecaufe we are to receive a6luali pardon from God 
continually , both for our originall corruption, which al- 
waies in this life abides with us , and for adluall fins,which 
we daily and hourely commit againft the Majefiy of God. 
Hee that once beleeveth is thereby made a member of 
Chrifts myfticall body , and Ibhathallfaisfinnes fatisfied 
for, by the death ana fufferings of his Head Chrift : But 
yet it is the good pleafureofGodi that hee fhould daily 
bewaile his offences, and crave pardon for them, that he 
might receive,feele and beafTured of the forgivenelfe of his 
particular and d^ily infirmities. Even after the infiiiion 
of faith moft perfccS: , faithfull repentance for finnes com- 
mitted, is as abfblutely necelTary tofalvation, astheiirf^ 
infufionwas. 

i Fourthly , God is not off and on, he plaies not faf} and 
loofe :but whom once he jnftifieth from finne , hee never 
remembreth finneagainflthemtNevertheleffe, wcemufl 
begge the continuance of his grace » that his mercifull par- 
don 



{^(furMme pffalvntion mnj he obtained. 



105 



aSani.7.15.27. 

1 Chion-ij.tJ. 



John 10. 2 8. 
John i7« "• 
Pfal.itf.TO. 
Heb. y.7. 
John 17.5. 
2Tini,4. 18. 



don may bee a gift without repentance. Faith is a filter to 
God (cK the accomplifhmenc of his promifes ; and becaufe 
weeareaffuredofhis unchangeable love, wee begg€ with 
greater affiance the continuance of his mercy : prayer be- 
ing nothing cHc but the ftreame or river of faith, and an 
iflhe of the defire of that which joyfully webeleeve. Da- 
v/V/ being certified that God would for ever ftablifh the 
kingdome in his hbufe and pofterity , forbeareth not to 
pray that it might bee fo. Our Saviour Chrift knew that 
his fheepe (hould never perifh ; yet hee prayeth,ff<?/j' Fa- 
therj kfepe them i» thj name. Hee prayeth alfb for delive- 
rance from death and glorification, ofboth which hee was 
ftiliy affurcd. Vnul knew afTuredly the I.ord woulddeliver 
him from every evill worke , yet without ceafing hee pray- 
eth to be delivered firomevill. Aflurance to fpced is that 
which addeth great fervencie to prayer . 

Fiftly» albeit by faith in the promifeofGodyWeenow 
reft alTured of the remiffion of finncs, yet wee ftill pray,/or- 
give Hi our trefiajfes , that wee may more fiilly and really 
poflefle and enjoy what weebeleeve wee already have in 
Gods aflFc<aion, and doc in part enjoy. The remifTion of 
finnes is by faith manifefted to our confciencey and in part 
wee rcape the comfort, fruit , and eflfe^ of it in this life : 
but ftill wee are clogged withfinne , we live in mifery and 
(brrpw; in our felves wee are condemned wretches ; ftill 
we are are lyable to many temporall and fpirituall chaftife- 
mentsanddefertionsforfinne, and live in a fort as exiles 
andbanifhed men from the immediate and clearc vifion of 
God, Therefore being ftill in cafe, as ifourfinnes were 
not completely pardoned, finne as yet abiding in us, and 
lubje6ting us to. the diipleafijre ofGoddifliking, it, and 
to his Fatherly cbaftifcmcnt accompanying the fame ,~ wee 
pray for forgiveneffe more abfblute and intire every day in 
the fruit , effect , and comfort ofit. Trite it is , that per- 
ibnsjuftified have full title unto, and right in that mercy 
<tf"God ; which as it hath already delivered them from the 
.cK)minion and condemnation of firtrte, foitwillin the end 
1 wholly 



//mv luftijlcatitn 
it full and ihtire. 



io6 



K^ffurance offalvation may be ohtAined. 



6^ 



Aa$ J. If. 



Rom.8.23. 



pralm.i8.i.2 
Plalm. 231 

Ifayiy-p. 

Ifay 33.22. 

Job 34.36. 
John 10. 2? 



Gal. 2. 20. 
Phil. t. 3. 



wholly free them from all remainders offinne , and chole 
chaftifemencs, affli6lions and miferfes wherewith they are 
exercifed in this life; add in thisrefpedltheremifTionof 
tlieir finnes is full andperfe<5l : but lb long as they live in 
this vale of teares j fin hath its abidmg in them , and they 
are fubjecS: to many calamities by reafon of fin, from which 
they heartily defire and pray to be delivered. 

Sixthly, wee have the grant of pardon fealed in our con- 
fcicnces , and pofleffe it privately in part , but as yet the 
Judge hath not folemnely pronounced his fentence of ab- 
Iblution, nor fetus in full and reallpofleffion, ofablblure, 
complete, intire acquittance and remiffion. This there- 
fore we expe6i:, and pray for, which will not be xiWthe time 
of re freeing come. So long as wee walke by faith, and not 
by fight , wee ftill pray for the fight of that , as touching 
which wee have now but the comfort of faith and hope , 
vvhichis in part and imperfed. By faith wee know that we 
are redeemed both in (bule and body , ytt fiilltpefigh in 
xiHT [elves f waitingforihe adoption , even theredemptioff 
of our bodies. 

Our adverfaries objeft againe, that by praying that 
Chrifts merits may be made ours in particular, wee greatly 
abafe them. As though the Prophet D^iz//^ did abaie God 
in making him his in particular /ay ingjT^/^i? Lord is myroek^, 
andmyfortreffeimy Godtandmy firength , my fhieldt the 
home of my falvation , and my refuge : The Lord is my 
Jheapheardffjhall not ^vant^N\^lch agreeth fweetly with the 
voicco? thQhiihSuWyHe is oHrGodyAnd he will fave us ; He 
is our Lord (not onely by right of foveraigntie , but of love 
1 and affedion ) andhewilljaveus. As though £//^/< did 
abafe God in calling him,^^ Father ',ot Thomas did ^yt^iCQ 
our Saviour Chrift in calling him , My Lord and my God; 
01 Paul, when he glorieth and triumpheth in Chrill after 
this mznntt ^who lo'ved me, andgave himfelfe for me y viz. 
in a fpeciall and peculiar manner, and not onely as he loved 
Efauy Judoi 3 and other reprobates. Wee doe no iujurie 
to God to make him.oursin particular, becaufehcehath 

faid, 



i^jjkrance of falvation may be obtained. 



107 



faid > as to iyihr^ham , fo to everie one of the feed nf 
(iAhrahamt I mi'li h thy God' Wee doe noinjurie, be- 
caufe wee doe not rhereby make him our peculiar, but 
leave him the fame to others thar heeis to us; as every 
man enjoyeth the light of the Sunne to his owne ufe, with- 
out, the impeachment thereof to the ufe of any other 
man. 

§. 8. A third reafon to confirmc that a Chrifiian be- 
leever may bee afTured of the pardon of his finnes, is this : 
What the ApoftJes and other faithfull men were affured 
ofbyordinarie faith, that may all the faithfull bee affured 
of in like manner' For all the faithfull are Brethren^ and 
have the like ^rechm faith and promiles. But the ApoRIes 
and other faithfull have beene affured of their falvacion by 
ordinarie faith. I'.aul pronounceth the fame certaintie of 
othetjmens falvapion that bee doth of his owne, and upon 
grounds which ^re common to all the faithful! and Saints 
of God. ' 

TheRhenr^ifts obje6V, that Pau/durd not affurehimfelfe 
th^ he was juflified J faying, / ^ojv mthing by my [elf e^ yet 
\ant l xot thereby jufiified' Did Paul fpeake this as doub- 
•tingof his juftiHcationby faith in Chril^ ? Of his particular 
aifurancehee gives plentiful! teflimony otherwhere : and 
ourAdverfaries teach, thathee wa-s aflured by revelation. 
The place makes firongly againft juflification by works: 
but again ft certaintie of falvation it makes nothing, unlefTe 
wee ("hall make the Apoftle contrarie to himfelfe ; and our 
Adverfaries will fay, ihatamanmay be certaine by revela- 
tion, and yet altogether nncertaine. The drift of the place 
istofhew, that wee Chould notvainely bee lifted up with 
the applaufe of men, becaufe they know us not; yea, wee 
know not our felves thorowly : for God is greater than 
ourconfciences, and doth efpie many fecret defaults in us, 
which wee upon diligent fcarch cannot find out in our 
owne hearts. But did the Apoftle, protefting the innocen- 
cieof his conlcience, intend to intimate bis doubtfulneffe 
of mind touching his owne falvation ? lo no fort : 

for 



and ja.ja. and 
302a. 



Heb.j.ri. 
2 Pet.T.T. 
llom.8.3?. 
r Cor.7 40. 
2 Tim.4 8. 
ijoh.3.14. 
and J 15. 
1 Cor. 4, 4. 



Rhem >^nnot.iii 
loc. Beliar. de 

rtom.8 35. 
Gal 22. 

2 Tim. 4. 8. 
%hem. ^nnst.in 
\«2w.3.3i. 



io8 



^jfurance of fdvation may be obtdned. 



Com. 12. 



Pfal.x9-X2. 
BeUar. d» jfuffllf. 



iJoh.J.WjII.Ti, 

)oh.ao.ji.and 
%.i6. 



for if our coftfciencf acc»fc ut mtt th cm have we beldnejfe : 
TJ&fef ft? our rejoicing before (joAi even the tefiimof^ ^f^nr 
confcience. Nay, this Text of Scripture well weighed, is 
fufficient to daflb the vaine cavils of the Papifts : For Tattl 
wasaffuredofhisfalvationj zrfd of theuprightnefleofhis 
heart and conlcience, though hee was ignorant of many 
fecret infirmities which the Moft High did efpie in him, 
and of that meaiiire of grace which he had received. What 
followeth hereupon ? Even thcfe two things , which d&.- 
re6lly overthrow the dodlrine of our Advcrfiries : viz. 
That hee who hath received grace from God, miy know 
the truth, thoughsnot the meaiure, of his faith and repen- 
tance : and ignorance of the exa6> multitude and greatneflfe 
of our offences, is no barreor hinderance to the certaintie 
of (alvation. who kpowes the mnlumde of his fins ? Not 
one. In this life a man can never fufficiently underftand 
the greatnefle and multitude of his offences : yet may he j 
beeaflured of theremiflion of (innes knowneand fecrct ; | 
becaufc not the pcrfedt knowledge of finne is the caufe * 
of certaintie, but the perfect mercie of God, and the 
perfedl merit of Chrift ; to which wee muft Icoke by 
faith. 

§. p. If the end of the Scripture be that rf^efhtutd he^ 
leevctand beieevmgPjonld know thKtwe have eternall Ufcy 
then evcrieBeleever that knowethhimfelfe to be a Belee- 
ver, may bccerraine of his iaivation. But the former i'5 tn 
undoubted truth. 

Itishereobje<5ted, Whatfbever wee beleeve by faith, is 

as infallible as the Word of God, which affurethusof it : 

1 If then the common (brtof the faithfiill dot not beleeve 

1 their falvation to bee as infallible as Gods owne Word, 

they are not by faith aflured of it. The anfwer is, that the 

* falvation of a Beleever is as infallible in it felfe , and in 

event, as is the Word of God, which aflfureth him of it : 

but alwayes it is not fb in his apprehenfion and feeling. 

The principles of faith are ever alike certaine, but not ap* 

prehendedof ail with the fame degree of certaintie. For 

there 



r\ 



i^ffitraMce offdl'vmof* mof he^hained. 



I op 



there arc divers cfegree-s of faieb, Utthfaith j great faith , 
fuHafurancc (^f faith ; even as a weak eye and a ftrongeye. 
;And as weake eye leech but weakely and impeFfo^ly, and 
a ftrong eye Teeth ftrongly , and more fully diicerncth the 
thingfeene : io a little faithbeleeveth faintly, tfiough tru- 
ly y greater faith beleevetb more ftedfeftly ; hW adurance 
of faith beteeveth under ho^e^ even Again f}: h&pe.ThQ Difci- 
ples of ChriCl faid unto him, PVee l^eleeve and know that 
th$uart Chrifi the Son of the having God : which in it 9i\{^ 
was infallibly triie, and yet they didnot ioin^aWMy ajjpre- 
hend it, but chat this faithwasfoonerhakenat^dbecaufe 
they did not infallibly beIeeve.it,our Saviom: tels them^that- 
therefore he forewarned them of his Death and Refurreiii- 
on, that when it wax eome to faffe they might beletve- It 
wasfaith that made P-prflr upon Chrifts wordgtoiiepinto 
:the Sea to goe unto bim upon the waters, beleevingthathe 
'fiiouldbeiafe; bat yet hee beleeved it not infa^llibly: for 
when he began to finke,^^ cried ont for f tare yMaf^er.fave 
me. The Dilciples beleeved i^^our Saviour as the onely pro- 
miled Mejfia^ and Redeemer dilfrael : but when they faw 
he was put to death , they began to ftagger at it. The like 
\ may be noted of their feareand doubting at other times. 

Yea, that afl'urance that is had by extraordinary reve- 
lation is not altogether ft^e fromfeares and doubts, fhaking 
lometimes the confidence of that , which a man hath re- 
ceived immediately from the Oraicleof Gods owne mouth, 
orby IJDiecian meflengers direiVedfrom God for certificate 
in. that behalf^. Which is to be feene in the examples ofA- 
braham if aac, David. znd oi:hers,to whom God had given 
fpeciall promilG ofhis protein idn and favour ; and yet upon 
occafionsthey have bewrayed great infirmity in the^ppre- 
henfion thereof And ii this befall tofaith in rhofe things 
which are- extraordinary revealed (f©p it is faith ordinary 
by which a manbeleeveth fiKh extraordinary revelations ) 
much more wee may afiore ourfelves, it befallcth there, 
where wee have no other batccdiKory revelation by the 
i wxittenword of God. 

Alfo 



Mar 8 r6. 
Mat. 15.2?. 
Rom.4.-2i. 



Rom. 4.18. 

John 6-6^. 



John 14. 5 9. 
Mat.i^.28. 



Vti-r J"!.? r. 
Luk.24.21. 



Gen. i2.r2 13. 
Pfalm. 31-22. 
I. SaTi..27. I. 



no 



t^ffurance offdvation may hcohtained. 



A Ifo the Word of God once (pokeii and often reiterated 
is of equall certainty in it k\^Q : but to help our weaknefle, 
the Lord goeth over one and the fame thing againe and a- 
gaine. Things beleeved are in themfelves more certaine 
than things leenc , but not apprehended by us with fuch 
affurance. Of thefe who doubteth ? of the other who doub- 
teth not at fome times ? The Prophets, our Saviour Chrift 
and his Apoftles, doe labour eft to confirme unto us mat- 
ters of faith by reafons, (imilitudes, fignes, examplesjincur- 
ring into the fenfes, not oncly to better our undcrftanding, 
but to confirme our faith: which is an argument i that to 
us things fenfible arc oft more certaine than things belee- 
ved, shough in themielves more uncertaine. 

Moreover , conclufions theologicall are in thcmfclvcs as 
certaine, as are the principles upon which they are groun- 
ded, but alwaies they are not fo infallible to our under- 
ftanding and confcience : becaufe the inference isnotfo 
well, readily and plainely perceived, as hath bcene (hew- 
ed before. And fb though the lalvation of the beleever bee 
as certaine as the word ofpromife, upon which his faith 
is iiirely buildcd , yet it is not (b infallibly knowne to the 
beleever himfelfe , it being farre more eafie to conceive 
that a beleever fhallbe laved, than to alTure the confcience, 
that hee is a true beleever. What the Lord hath immedi- 
ately revealed , that faith receiveth with the greateft cer- 
taintie : but what is concluded out of the Word from one 
propofition immediately divine, and another certainly 
knowne by (bme other light, that may bee beleeved witn 
infallible affurance. 

And fo hee that isjuftified and hath obtained remiflRon 
offinnes, may affuredly know or bcleevc that he hath re- 
ceived mercy of the Lord : otherwife hee can never truly 
be thankful! to God for that ineftimable benefit. For hee 
that knoweth not whether he hath received it or not , nor 
can afTure himfelfe of it without intolerable and inexcufa- 
ble prefumption, how fhould hee from the heart give God 
thankes for this unfpeakeable favour ? But to thinke, that 

mortall 



-^ 



K^Jfitr4nif offiUvation may be okaimd. 



Ill 



fnortallmen arc never bound to give God thanks for the 
greatctt benefit that is beftowed upon them in this worlds 
ismoftabfurd. 

It is obje6ted> That in this ftare of tempration (fbchis 
our infirmitie) affurancc would engender pride. And im- 
mediate and pcrfcdl: alTurance, fuch as is free from all al^ 
fault, and impeachment of feare and doubt, might perad- 
vcnture, by the corruption of our nature, be abulcd to fecu- 
ritie and pride : But fuch perfection in this life wee attaine 
not unto; becaufe the Lord knowesitnot expedient. As we 
have a meafure of true righteoufneffe, though weake and 
imperfe<ft: lb have wee a meafure of true and comfortable 
aflurance againft feare and doubt, though, by reafbn of our 
weakncfTe, mixed with many feares and doubts. Thus 
the Lord deales with us in great wifdome ( knowing 
pur inabilitie to weild any better condition) that by the 
fweetneffe of grace wee might bee allured to yeeld cheare- 
full obedience, and bee fuftained in temptations, and by the 
fenre of our wcaknefTe , together with the fTiarpncfTe of 
temptation, feare, and perplexitie, might bee kept from 
fwellrng in pride, fecuritie, bve of carnall libertie, negli- 
gence to preferve our faith, and fuch like. And as fbme- 
times by his admirable wifdome hee maketh finne the 
whctftone of righteoufneffe: fbby affli£^ion and trouble, 
by diflrui^s and fearefuil doubts, nee whetteth and fharpe- 
neth our faith and affurance ; which by fighting encreafeth, 
and the longer itwrefilcth the ftronger it waxeth, whilcf} 
faith powreth forth prayer, and powring forth ef prayer 
obtaineth further ftrength of faith. Knocking makes the 
linkc to burnc more clearely, and the fliakingof atreeby 
ftormie blafls fettles the root and the tree more firmely : 
fb temptations , troubles , and feares by the wife provi- 
dence of God. make for theencreafe and confirmation of 
faith. As a man in danger of drowning catcheth for hold 
to fave himfelfe: fo whileft the comfort of life makes 
offer to goe from us, wee take the better hold thereof, and 
it becomes fo much the more precious and deare unto us. 
; By 



lib. 5. mp.%. 



The benefits that 
come unto us by 
tepstpratieni,, 



112 



K^f[urm<e of falvathn maj he obtained. 



Gal.s.ia- 



Gal.5.t. 
Rom.4 14. 
Gal. 3.18. 
I Job. 5.10,11. 
Rom. 6.2 J. 



Jerf.m.!i 35. 
Hr.ck 35.27. 
Ephen2..!o. 



Piiil.i.i*. 



Maftii i9-:7. 



By our corruption vertues become poyfbn: and by the 
wifdomeof God finnes are made medicines : But as wee 
doenot condemne vertue, though our corrupt hearts doe 
fometimes abufe it ; nor commend finne, for that it is ufed 
as a fpurre to righteoufnefle: no more doe wee approve 
doubting, for the good that God works by it ; nor difal- 
low full aflurance, becaufe of the evill that might enfuc to 
us thereby abufing the fame. In briefe, pride is the daugh- 
ter of corruption^ notof filiall confidence; nor may it bee 
condemned for it, becaufe that weed fpringeth from ano- 
ther root. 

§. 10. AiHanltnaybeiccve, faythcRonianifts,thathee 
(hall have eternail life, if hee keep the Commandements : 
but becaufe he is not alTured that he (ballfodoe, he remai- 
iiech in feare. And verie juftly may hcc be in feare/)r rather 
in de^aire , that iooketh for eternail life upon no other 
condition. The Apoftlc indeed doth plainly debarre him 
from all hope and cxpe^S^ation thereof whenhee faith, S9 
many as are af the works of the Lawt are nnder the cnrfe ; 
i for it is written,€Hrfed is everie one^&c. It is not for them ! 
that profeiTe the faith of Chrift, by their keeping of the! 
CommandementSjto expedl; the obtaining of eternail life : 
Tee are fallen from grace ((aich the Apoftle) that willheju' 
Jlified by the Law : If they which be of the Law he heires, 
then is faith made void. The Commandements of God 
are laid before Beleevers, not as the caufe for obtaining of 
eternail life, but as the way to walke inuncoecernall \i^c, 
affured unto us by the free promife and gift of God- And 
of this promife and gift of God, the keeping of Gods Com- 
mandements is a partjwho hath faid, I -will put my Law into 
their hearts, and caufe them to walke in my Statutes. A nd 
though a man be weake, feeble, and impcrfe6l, yet •fitiding 
and feeling the worke of fan6liiication begun in him, hee 
maybeafluredthat hee who hath wrought this beginning 
of \\^Q, will goe forward therewith unto the tnA^ 

Our Saviour Chrift faid to the young man in the Go^el» 
if theu wilt enter into life, keefe the (^ommandemenis' 

But 



K^jfurance offalvation may be ohtamed. 



1131 



But that young Pharilce Was ignorant of the Law and his 
owne eftate, rcftcd in extcrnall works of righteoufhefle, 
and when hee came to Chrirtj was deftitute of the true 
knowledge of the 0\€ejfiai, without which (our Adveria- Joh.i7.j. 
ries will confclTe) there is no eternall H^q : and fo from 
'their owne grounds, it is abfurd to imagine, that Chrift by 
thcfe words did fimply intend to dire^^hima way for the 
obtaining of eternall life by hfs owne works or merits* 
Wee grant, the Law to which our Sayiour referred that 
young man, to be the rule of obedience according to wh« ch 
people in covenant ought to walke, building their works 
of righteoufnefle upon faith as the foundation ; and obe- 
dience, ifluing from faith unfakied, to bee the way to eter- 
nal! bliflc : Wee acknowledge alfo, that no man can bee 
affuredof remiflion of bis finnes, who doth not walkc be- 
fore God in uprightnefle and integritie : but this upright 
unfained obedience is imperfeft , the effedi of that faith 
which juftifieth, not the caufe of juftification. When the 
Saipture pronounceth them bleifled that feare God, keepe 
his CommandementSta-ndwal'kjn thertndejiUd way jdoth it 
not defcribe the perlon whofe Jinnes ure covered, in which 
ftands hishappincfle ? Our Saviour hath taught us plainly, 
That except onr righteoHfnejfe exceed the righteoufnejfe of \ Matth.5.20. 
the Scribes and Pharifees, wefhall in no rvife enter into the 
Kingdome of Heaven. W hat righteoufnefle doth he here 
meane? Inherent, or the righteoufnefle of works? for hee 
preflethanunifbrme obfervationofall Gods Comma^nde- 
mcnts. The Scribes and Pharifeesdid (asitleemes) even 
then calumniate him, as they did afterward P^^/ (and the 
Papifls doe us flill) as a dcftroyer of the Law, becaule 
hee reproved their confidence in works , and fought to 
eftablifli the do6lrine of faith, which now wee teach. 
Needfullin this refpeil: was that caveat; Thinkenot that Matth.5.17. 
lamcometodejlroy the Lave and the Prophets: I am not 
come to deflrojibHt to fulfill them. Andintheie words> as 
our Saviour rendreth areafon, why hee that breaketh any 
of thofe Commandements , which the Scribes and 

I Pharilees 



upright valJ^Hg 
« neceffarie, (>i4t 
K9t thecaufe of 
^uftijicittioti. 
Pul.119,1,2. 
and 1.1,2. 



114 



t^Jfurmce ef fahation may be obtained. 



Vei-r.ip. 



Vcrf.*o. 



^Pharifees counted theleaft,y^«<// bee counted lea ft in the 
kingdome of Heaven : {o hee maketh paflage to the expo- 
(ition of the Law in the verfes following, where heecleares 
it from the corrupt glofles of the Scribes and Pharifees. 
And it is to be noted, that he faith not, ExceptjourYigh- 
teoufnefe exceed the righteoufnejfe of the Law and Fro- 
fhets •' hnuExcept it exceed therighteoufnes of the Scribes 
& Pharifees, towitjthatrighteoufnefle which they taught 
and practiced, who made none account of Ibme comman- 
dements which they called the leaft, urged onelyan extcr- 
nall oblervacionof the Law according to the letter, with- 
out any re{pe6lof inward pietie, and maimed and mangled 
the word as pleafed themfelves. The fentence therefore 
mu(t be underftood of inherent rightcoulhefle, whence the 
necefTitie of good works is ftrongly concluded. The faith I 
thatjuftifiethis lively and operative, ever conjoyncd with 
an afteftionof pietie and obfequious difpofition^as power- 
full to bring forth deeds of mercie, as to make firme and 
faithfull application of Chrifts righteoufnefle, or conceive 
fure truft of Gods mercie offered in him. Now what is re- 
quired in faith that it may juttifie, of neceffitieit muft goe 
before alTurance of pardon and forgiveneife. True it is 
then, that without inherent holinefie no man canbeeaflu- 
red of his acquittance from finne : but if wee enquire in- 
to the truecauleof abfolution, it is the fole grace and mer- 
cie of God in Jefus Chrift, embraced by a true and lively 
faith. 

Doth this any thing prejudice Chrifiian aflTurance, that 
without true and fincere obedience , at leaft without a 
promptitude, aptnefle, inclination^ and relblution to doe 
good works, andwalkein obedience, there can bee no af- 
iiirance? No: For the Beleever relyeth not upon his 
works? though hee exercife himfelfe therein with all dili- 
gence: and though hee know well that.hee comes infinite- 
ly {hortof whatGod commandeth, and bevvaile his daily 
failings, and lees hee hath need to renew his purpole and 
refolution to better his obedience, and condemnes the 

imper- 



what infirmities may ft and with ajjitrance. 



115 



imperfeftions that hec cfpjcth more and more in himfelfe ; 
yet it is not impoffible to bee afluredofthe truth and up- 
rightneffe of his heart , and fincere, though imperfeft, de- 
fire and endevour to walke with God : which , as the fruit 
of the Spirit, and eflfe;^ of faith, doth evidence his recon- 
ciliation with God. For he that feareth God and walketh 
in his wayes, in the perfeil and undefiledway, isjuftified 
from finne. And hee that knowes that he walketh before 
God in truth and with a perfect heart , may certainly con- 
clude from this fruit of the Spirit* that his finnes are par- 
doned. 

§. 1 1 . I might adde , that the faithfbll are fealed by the 
Spirit y and by the fame Spirit are enabled to cry ^Akha 
Father i whereby they are aflured of the pardon of their 
finnes :but I will ftiut up this matter,brieflylhewing what 
infirmities may ftand with aflurance of faith, and what fins 
cannot ; that Ghriftians may bee directed the better to 
make triall of their eftate. If we fay we havefellowfhip with 
him, afidwalk^ in darkftejjeywe lie, afid d0eKot the truth: 
andifweefaythatwe (fuch as John then Was, regenerate 
and in the ftateof grace)^4i/^ hoJin;ive deceive ourfehesy 
and the truth is not in m . Even fuch then as walke in the 
light,and have fellowfhip with God,are finners,and not juft 
or perfe61: in themfelves. who can fay his heart is cleane ? 
there is no manjufit^vhofinneth not : and yet the Apoftleis 
bold to affirme , That he that is borne ofCJedftnneth not. 
The juft then tranlgrelTetheLaw > and loarefinnersrbut 
they make not a trade of finne,orprofefnon of iniquity, and 
lb are not law-breakers or tranfgre fours. And this the A- 
poftleplainely teacheth, laying , Every one that hath this 
hope (of being thcSonof God) doth purge himfelfe as hee 
is pure y not according to the meafure of his purity or per- 
feftion,but accordingto the trutb,in habit becomes like un- 
to him : as on the contrary he that commits fin-, that is, i%^ 
crafts-mafter ofiniquity, and laboureth therein , he re fern- 
bles his father the Devill , whofe chiefe delight is in doing 
mifchiefe. Which is further confirmed by that of our Sa- 

I 2 viour 



rjofani. 3,4. 



§.ir. 

fyhat infirm itiei 
Way ^audwitb 
cjJitrAnce. 



I John i.'j. 



Verfe S. 



Pro. JO. 9, 
Ecdel^ 7.20. 
I John 3.9. 



James 2.10^ 



I John J.J. 



I'John 3-8. 



Ii6 



what infirmities majfian^ mth dffurance. 



Joh-.8.34< 



t John 5-^8. 



Deut. 3». 5. 



Jam. 3.2. 



viour Chrift to thejewes, VenlyiUvhofsever cemniftteth 
fin is thefervant of fin : and thefervant abideth not in the 
houje for ever', hrtt the Sonabtdethforever:lftheSen 
therefore fjall make ycH free , ^'eejhall he free indeed- Hee 
that committeth finne with delight , wilfull indulgence to 
tranigeffions, and unrelenting oppolition to the cleare 
ixuth he is the fervantef fin i but' they that are made free 
by the Sonne , are free from the raigneof iinne, not from 
every acfi of finne. He that is borne of God keffes himfe/fe^ 
that the wicked one cannot come within him to endanger 
him^the gates of hell can have no prevailing power over 
him ; he finneth not as thewprlcj doth, which lieth in ini- 
quity : but altogether free from finne he is not, nor ever 
dial 1 bee fo long as he carrieth about with him this body of 
death. To fin habitually , wilfully, indulgently, with foil 
conlent and greedineflc, is not compatible with the hope 
and profcflion of a Chriftian : This ffot is not th^fpot of 
Gods children : but they have their blemifhes , they finne 
of infirmity, though not ofwilfulncfle. Sinnc in its owne 
nature is oppofite to grace : but all fins are not altogether 
incompatible with grace, that \Sj they hinder not tbegrace- 
j full operation offaith, hope, and love. 

The remainders of original! canjption , under which 
the regenerate m.uft labour fo long as they live rfinnesof 
fimple ignorance J and of unavoidable infirmity, which 
through weakne(fe the faithfiill runne into every day: 
thefe 60c not flop the lively worke of &ith in receiving 
the promifes of mercy , but even at the very infiant , when 
thefe have abode in thefouie, faith can and doth make 
faithfull plea for mercy , or otherwife none could pleade 
for mercy before the throne of grace : For in many things we 
finne all. 

Sinnes of forgetfulnefTe , inconfideration , and paf- 
fion, whereunto there is not advifed confent; thefe are 
as moates in the eye , which doe fomewhat trouble the 
cleare fight offaith 5 but notwith(}anding them , the heart 
principally adhetetb unto God : and though now and 
"'^ "■< ' then 



what infirmities mayflandwith ajfitrance, 

then through infirmitie a Chriftian bee overtaken with 
them , yet may hee upon good grounds bee aflured of 
Gods love. Anger, pettifhncffe, impatience j inordi- 
nate feare are finnes, which the godly ought and doe 
watch againft , and for which they ought and muft 
judge themfelves : but i( through infirmitie they bee 
over-taken to fpeake an hafiie or onadvifed word, 
they muft not therefore caft oflF their confidence: not- 
withftanding fuch flips, they may cry in faith, and 
bee heard in their Applications. If any man Jinne, (to 
wit of infirmitie, as they doe whdwaike in the light, and 
addidt themfelves to the ferious ftudy of holine{re)ir«' have 
an Advocate rvith the Father, Jefm Chri^the right eotUt 
and hee is the propitiation for our Jinnes. What anlwer 
the Lord gave to Paul touching his temptations. My grace 
is fufflcient for thee : that may bee faid of the infirmities of 
the Saintsi fuch finnes as be meere and abfblute infirmities, 
God of his grace, revealed in the covenant of grace, is plea- 
fed to grant unto them a pardon of courfc. Such finnes sts 
in regard of their matter, are not repugnant to the maine 
offices prefcribed by the Commandements of God, being 
of frailtie committed , through unadvifednefle or fudden 
paffionj thefe doe not denominate a man a Law-breaker i 
nor Co weaken the power of faith, as that it fliould not bee 
able to receive the promife of forgivenefle; norfiiipend 
theaftuallclaimeofeternall life. Thele frailties may be in 
the godly without any notable defe(5l of faith : they de- 
barre not the foule from cleaving unto God. -Abrahamj 
faid oi Sarah i Shee is my fifter: this was an infirmitie, 
but did not extinguifli faith. Sarah laughed at the promife, 
and then denied it through feare: Jacob beguiled his Fa- 
ther, laying, J am thy [onne Efau : and many fuch like in- 
firmities of the Saints are recorded, which argue their faith 
tobeweake, not to be depofed from its foverafgntie. The 
reafon hereof is not to bee taken from the matter or put- 
ward a6\, wherein they offended ; but from their heart ^nd 
afted^ion, which was morecnclined to good than to evill, 

I 1 -}."■'' and 



117 



I Joh.£.i,t. 



2 Cor.IS.7,5. 



Gen.ir.Tj. 
Gcn.i8.io,ii. 



Gen.»7ki9. 
Exod.4.io,i4. 
Job40.j. 
Matth'Kf !»• 
1 Chron.j5.a2. 
2Chroa.Jo.l8, 



-A 



ii8 



Heb.xx.31. 



what fnms hinder ajfurmce. 



Pfal.i^.iMS. 



§. I». 

what fins binder 
ajfitranc*. 
P(al.5i.io.i4. 
I Keg>szi4< 



and did fticke faft unto God, even when through weak- 
nefle tbey tranfgrefled. ^7 faith Rahab received tht Jpies 
with peace y when through infirmitie fhee offended in the 
meanes of their iafetie. The Prophet David was regene- 
rate without queftion, and had fiire hope that his prayers 
formercie fliould bee heard, when bee uttered this com- 
plaint of bmCelhjFho can Ufiderfiafrd his errors ? Cleanfe 
thfiu nte from fecret faulty, Keepe hacke thy fervant alfo 
from prejHfKptHOKi finneSi let them not have dominioM over 
me : then (ha III be upright, and IfhaS be innocent from the 
great tranfgrejfion. So that a faithfull man ftepping afide, 
through intirmitie , in the forenamed offences ( I fay 
through infirmitie, and not of habit, cuftome, groflfe care- 
lefneffe, or delight) doth retaine his integritie ,• and faith 
though ibmewhat ftiaken, doth keepe its ftanding, and con- 
tinue lively to beg and embrace pardon. 

But hee that finneth of meere fraikie,doth humble him- 
felfe for his daily offences, and labour to repreffe and mor- 
tifie his inbred Ms, fecketh forgivenefle by unfainedcon- 
feflion and heartie prayer, reneweth his purpofe and refbln- 
tiontobee morecircumfpe^V, and lettethup his watch to 
fhunneand avoyd the like fins for the time to come : And 
if hee be overtaken dt unawares, hee is warned by that flip 
to looke more hcedfully to his vvayes, begging pardon, 
and feeking help from above, that hee may be able to fland 
faft : fo that the flip, which did feeme fbmewhat to loofe 
him, is an -occafion of his flicking fafter and clofer unto 
God. 

§. 12. But if a godly man fall into a foule and enor- 
mous crime wafting confcience, for the time hee lofeth 
ibmedegreeof newnefle of Spirit ,cleannefl[e of heart, com- 
fort of the Holy Ghofl, integritie in a fort, and peace of 
confcience. Heeplungeth himfelfe into the fcnfeof Gods 
wrath ^nd <fiiplearure , «nd by his grievous tranlgreffion 
t;hepowcr of faithis fb wea^kened, that heecan neither be- 
leeve the pardon of any one fin formerly pardoned, nor kv 
adnall claime to any privilcdge of grace formerly enjoyed. 

The 



Whatfinnes hinder affurancei 



rtp 



John 10.2?, 

John 8. J 5. 
ijohn J.9. 



iHie favour of God towards his children is unehangcablci 
ithefenrence of pardon grantcdihali never hree rev©:red i, e--^ 
Iven after fome grievous fall, the feedsofgraceabidein 
Ithem^ and they remaine in theftateof Jurtification :. but 
iwhileft they continue in fuchaneftate of fmne, they can 
i make no aauall claime to the promifes of eternall Mq, The 
feeds of graceabiding in themr they ftill retaine their right 
and title to eternall life to be given of free and undeferved 
grace : but they arc fufpended, from a6luall claime, untill 
they rife againe by true repentance y and thenthey recover 
not a new right or title , but a newclaime by vcrtueofthe 
old title. For it is the perpetuall ordinance of God, that if 
his children ftrike out of the way by fmne, they muft rife a- 
gaine, and renue their faith and repentance,befbre they can 
ha ve any found or true hope of falvation. There can bee no 
Chriftian aflurance, which doth not fully confent and ac- 
cord with thefe and fuch like paffages of holy Scripture xjf 
I regard iniquity in my hearty theLordr»iHn»t hcare me.- 
Thefotile that fmnethjhall die. Knowyee mh that theunr 
righteow Jhallnet inherit the kjngdome ofGt^f Be mtde'-' 
ceived: neither fornicatorstnoridolaters^BradultercrSjinor 
effeminate inorabufers ofthemfelveswith mankindeyNor 
theeves, mr cdveteusy nardrunkardsinorremlersy nor eX" 
tortionerSi (hall inherit the kingdome efCed* If therefore 
a godly man, as Da vid, turne afide into finne of this kinde, 
hee can have no aflurance of mercy , till this iniquity bee 
broken ofiF by unfained repentance. For faith cannot Re- 
ceive what the word of grace doth not promife: But par- 
don of finne is promifed to them onely that confefle and 
forfake their iniquity; that forfake all finne inhabit, de- 
lioht , and indulgence ; grofle finne utterly and upon good 
advice. 

§. 1 5. The raigneand abfolute dominion a 6f finne doth 
utterly exclude grace, and he that is fo guilty, hath nothing 
in him that can cry or call for pardon or forgivenefle. In 
whom finne hath this dominion, he as yet is under ^ the 
curfeofthclaw, and the wrath of Godabidethon him : 

I 4 for 



I Cor. 6« f, 
EpheTs.;. 

Cal j.^,6. 
Rev.zx.S. 



The abfolute 
raigne of fin wiB 
netftand with 
thejlate efface. 
aRoIn.5.I2«l3^ 
14. ■ - 
bjo/in J. 36. 
Deur.^.24. 
Matth.y- sj. 
Num.15.30. 



120 ^^^^ ajfuram^ breeds refolmion to fleafe cod. 



§.14. 

True ajfttrance 
breedi eftcreaji 
efrefolutionand 
c^etopleafeGod. 
I John 3.2s. 



; Luke 7. 47* 
! I John 4. rp. 

Cant. 5.8.& *7- 

1 Pet. 1.8. 

Pfal. 103.1,1, 3« 

I Cor. 14. 1. 

Col. 3-t,». 

Phil. 3.9. 



&63.3, 
r Per. 1. 9. 
Afts 8. 3^. 
Rotn. 5> 4. 
Jcr.^^.aj. 



for thcprefence of grace infufed is a neceflary qualification 
to the pardon of finne, and where finne doth bearefuch 
fway as to fhut forth whatlbever in us fhould intreat mercy, 
it cfoth fhut him up under wrath. Wereitpofliblefora 
man regenerate (which flaall never befall them that are cal- 
led according to the purpofe of God) aftc r grace received to 
finne wilfully ,with full confent, delight, and contentment, 
to the utter extinguifhing of the Spirit of grace , or finally 
to abufe any extraordinary meafure of inherent grace, by in- 
dulgence to knowne finnes fecret or open ; hee ftiould fall 
from the ftate of Juftification , and bee called to a {\vi6k 
account, as well for all his former finnes , as this abufe of 
his talent. 

§.14. AfTurance of falvation , if true, is ever joy ned 
with a religious and confcionable defire to walke before 
God in all well-pleafing , and to doe the things that are ac- 
ceptable in his fight : and affured ftanding in grace de- 
pends upon a like certainty of not continuing indulgence to 
knowne offences, or grofle negligence in repenting or be- 
I wailing fecret fins. Where this priviledge ispoffefled, the 
1 heart is moft tender and fenfible of finne, mollwatchfull 
to fhnnne and avoide whatfoever is difpleafing unto his 
Highneffe, grieved with holy indignation for former 
looienefTe anduntowardlinefTe : there flouri(heth unfained 
love to God for bis mercy, and to the brethren for the 
Lords fake ; found humility and firee (ubmiflion to the 
Lofds will and commands in every thing ; fincere and con- 
tinual! thinkfulneffe to God for all his gifts , bothinpro- 
fperity and trouble , health and ficknefle; holy covetouf^ 
neffe after fpirituall things,joyned with found delight in the 
WordofGod, and bafe account ofall things in compari- 
fbn of Chrift : holy and reverent admiration to fee his 
ftate thus changed , from fo low a depthofmifery , tofo 
great an height of glory : fweet contentment, joy un- 
^'eakeable ; with continuall care and conflant refblution 
to better his obedience ; and mercifull zealous defirc,both 
by edifying fpeech and godly example, to draw on and 

build 



True affurance breeds refolution tofleafe God, 



121 



build up others in faith and godlinefle. How can it bee 
conceived » that a man fliould be aflured of the pardon and 
fbrgivenefle of many and great offences committed by him, 
but it will worke a greater loathing and deteftation of fin, 
unfained abafementfor former weakneffejcontinuallwatch- 
fulnefle to keepc himfejfe pure, and ardent \^t. with 
inward joy that cannot be exprefled ? How can a man bee 
pertwaded , that ^eater happinefle '\% given him of God 
than all the world is worth , that more finnes are pardo- 
ned him than he hath haires on his head , the Icaft where- 
.of is fufficient to plunge him into the nethermoft Hell % 
but he muft needs love the Lord who hath gracioufly loo- 
ked upon him in his diftrefle , rejoyce with joy unjpeakea- 
ble and glorious , and keepe continuall watch againft the 
baites and allurements of finne, that hee lofe not his com- 
fort, nor diflionour God , who bath done lb great things 
for him? The Malefactor is glad of his Princes pardon , 
fpecially of his Highnefle favour , whereby hee is advanced 
into great honour and dignity. When the Jewes heard of 
the proclamation of King Cyrus (by which they were let 
free firom their long and tedious captivity ) they were rapt 
with joy and wondring , that they were like to men that 
thinke they rather dreame , then indeed poffelTe the thing 
that their foules longed after : how much more will cer- 
taine affurance, that wee are fet free from the perpetuall 
bondage of finne , and reftored to the everlafting freedome 
of righteoufnefTe and life, make us wonder at the infinite 
wifedome, and unlpeakeable goodnefie of our heavenly 
Father? The Saints confidering the goodneffeof God to- 
wards Man in his creation , breake forth into holy admira- 
tion; Lord^ TvhAtismanthattheuartfomittdfullofhim! 
The Prophet calling to minde long after , what God had 
done for his fbule in delivering him from the terrour of 
death, and power of the grave, cannot pafle it over without 
fervent thankes and praile, ff^hatfhall I render to the Lord 
for all his benefits toward me? And when Peter came to him- 
felfe, and faw indeed that he was delivered from the tyran- 
nic 



Pfal.«tf.i,2. 



Pfal.8.4.y. 
Job 7.17. 
Pfal.J44.j. 



Pfal.iitf.ia. 



142 



Afts la.ii- 



Trm ajfuranu hreeds, refilutm tofleaf& God. 



meo£ H^rady from the deepe dungeon and bitter death 
prepared for him , he entr^ into a religious and thankfiill 
admiration of the great power and mercie of the Lord , 
laying J Nojv I kpowforatruthi that the Lord hath fent 
his AngelU and hath delivered me from the hand of Herod. 
How much more ought and will that man, who is aflured of 
Gods favour and love towards him , for ever admire the 
mighty power , unfpeakeable goodnefle, and rich mercy of 
God , who hath delivered him from the pre of Hell , from 
the power of Satan , from the curfe of the law,and from the 
waiting for of all the wicked Devils and damned Spirit^^and 
hath tranflated him into the Kingdome of his deare Sonne? 
And if hee daily confider hisunworthincfle, andrenucd 
ikines , he (hall fee more caufe to wonder every day , than 
at the firftjif comparilbn may be made in fijch a cafe, and to 
renue his repentance, care> watch , and reiblution to better 
his obedience. For is itnottobeewondrcdat, thatGod 
pardoneth the fins of his children daily, and continneth his 
mercy towards them, and the fenfeofhis love, even unto 
the end? Whocanthinke upon his flips and infirmities, 
which breake firom him every day, forwhich the wrath of 
God is juftly provoked againft him; and witha 11 remem- 
ber how God ispleafedtofparehim, to grant him accefle 
into his prefence, and to afford unto him the fenfeofhis 
love; but hee muft needs be afionifhed at the enjoyment 
of fb great and incomprehenfible , (b large and long endu- 
ring kindnefie ? His heart muftbe enflamed with love, and 
enlarged in praifes ftill more and more, his affe6iions raifed 
to ftrive againft finne , and fet upon the workes of holinefle 
and righteoufneffe whereunto they are defigned, every day 
more and more. Aflurance of falvation then doth not be- 
get fecurity, but quickneth to more fincere, fcttled,and con- 
uantobedience; norisitpoffible, that a Chriftian fhould 
hold his affurance longer than he dothfollowj cheriHi, and 
feed this heavenly affe6^ion in himfelfe. 

CHAP. 



Faith ii^grmnded upn the Word of Cod. 



123 



CHAP. IX. 

F^ith is grounded ttfon the Word of God, not Hfon the 

aHthorttie of the Churchy and refieth tt^on God 

in 0}rifh*iotftf«n the Saints militant 

9r triumphant* 

§. !• T^He Schoolemen aividethe objefl of faith into 
1 the material! objeft, and into the formall. The 
matcriall are thearticles or things beleeved. The formal! is^ 
the foundation and laft maine principle whereupon faith 
relyeth,orthatwhcreintothe aflent, whicb faith yeeldeth 
unto the matter beleeved, isrefblved. In which fenfe, the 
objc6l of faith is al! one with the foundation or ground 
worke of it. But howfbever wee underftand ir> whether 
tor the maine rcalbn and laft refblution of aflent, or for 
that whereupon our confidence leaneth, relyeth, refteth j 
the auchoritie of the Church cannot be theground, nor the 
Saints triumphant the obje«5l: of faith di vine. Wee beleeve 
that God hath his Church: but wee neither beleeve in the 
Saints militant nor triumphant. The ground or foundati- 
on of faith muft bee fome thing, which is purely and fim- 
ply divine, admixt with no errour, yeajiubjefVto no errour ; 
the indubitate word and revelation ofChrift, the divine and 
prime veritic reveaifed by infpiration. But the Word * of 
God alone is purely and (imply divine, admixt with no er- 
rour; the Church is fiibjedt to errour, neither hath it any 
truth immediately, orby dfvine infpiration, but by fecond 
meancs; th-eauthoritieofthe Church is a thing create, di- 
ftindlfronh'thefirftveritie. The immortal! feed, whereby 
we are regenerate and made faithful!, istheonely formal! 
principle, or ground of faith. The Word of God alone is 
chat immortall feed. Therefore the Word of God alone, is 
the onely formall principleof faith; 

And even as in husbandrie, although divers inftruments 
andmeanesbecrequificeand ncceflaric; to wit, plowing, 

ibwing. 



§. I. 



The authovitte of 
the Church cannot 
be the ground, of 
fifth,. 

1 TBcflr.1.13. 

2 Tim,i.i6' 



Rom.ii.ao. 



I Pet.x.sj* 



^24 



The Papifts makes the Popes mthoritie 



Ephef.i.20. 



TheTapifis tnaks 
the Vofes duthoTt- 
tietbeonely 
grewideffiith. 



fowingj&c. yet the feed is the beginning and iblc imme- 
diate caufe of the graine fpringing up : even fo in the ipi- 
rituall plantation of faith, in which our foules are living 
fields, theimmortall feed, which the Apoftles firft prea- 
ched, and afterwards committed to writing , produceth 
Taith, as the ibie principle, immediate motive, andformall 
obje(5l of faith*; andtheminifterie, authoritie, and calling 
of the Church produce the fame, as the adjuvant and in- 
ftrumentall caule, or as the meanes of applying the Word 
and feales thereof, but not as the firft principle. What- 
fbever credit the Church hath, it receiveth the fame from 
the Scriptures, as is acknowledged by feme of our prin- 
cipal! Adverfaries , and confirmed by the Apoftle , who 
faith ; fVee are built ufon the foundation of the ^ro^hets 
and A^ofiles. 

The prefent faith of Chriftians is of the fame kind with 
the faith of the Prophets and Apoftles. But the faith of 
thefe holy men was founded upon immediate divine revela- 
tion, and not upon the authoritie of the Church. 

§. 2. HereintheRomanifts faith difters from the faith 
of ancient Chriftians : for the Saints who lived of old, 
grounded their faith upon the pure and faithfiill Word of 
God, as upon a fare foundation ; but the authoritie of the 
Pope, whom they call the Church virtuall, is the firft 
ground and laft refolution of the Romanifts faith. Indefi- 
nitely or indeterminately , they-teach , whatfoever God 
hath fpoken is mofttrue, in that fenfe wherein hee meant 
it : But if wee defcend to any determinate fpeeches, writ- 
ten or unwritten , either acknowledged or iiippofed for 
Gods Word, the prefent Romifti Church doth take upon 
her ablblutely to judge of all, and everie part of them. If 
wee fpeake of that Canon of Scripture which we have, the 
fenfe or interpretation of any text,any article of faith con- 
cluded out of it, theonely caufe they doe or can beleeve 
them infallibly, is the Popes infallibilitie that commends 
them. 
The Churches or Popes propolali is not onely a condi- 
tion 



The Papifts make the Popes authoritie 

rion requidne, but the remonftrativc root , theimmedi- , 
atecaufe and reafon of their bcleeving divine revelations. 
And if it bee a reafon why they beJeeve them , andfvvay 
the minde to embrace the truth , then it \% the proper 
eflficientcaufeofbtlcefe. According to their do^rine, the 
Orthodoxallanfwer to this Interrogation, Why doe you 
beleeve the dodrine of the Trinity to be a divine Revela- 
tion ? is , becaufe the Church propoieth it to mee for fuch» 
But hee that admits this anf^er for found and Catholike, 
and yet denies the Churches propolall to be the true and 
proper caufe of his beleefe in the former point, hathfmo- 
thered the light of nature>by admittir^ too artificiall a fub - 
tikic into his braines. Whatfoeveritbee, caufe, condi- 
tion, circumftance, or effedt, that truly latisfieth this 
demand, Why doe yon beleeve this or that? it i% a true 
and proper caufe of our bcIeefe, though not of -the thing 
bclcevcd. 

Wee muft here obferve that there is a twofold rclbluti- 
on ; One of the things or matters beleeved or known,into 
their firft parts or elements; Another of our beleefe or 
pcrlwafions concerning them, into theirfirftcaules or mo- 
tives. Intheone, the moftgenerall or remoteft caufe; In 
the other, thcmoft immediate or next caufe alwayes ter- 
minates the refolution. The one imitates « the caiher in- 
verts the order of compoiir ion. In the firft acceptation the, 
iirft verity or divine infallibility is that into which our 
faith is laftly refoived. For this is the firfl ftep in the pro- 
grefle of true beleefe,. the loweft foundation whereon ^x\y 
Religion can be built. But in the (econd acceptation (as we 
alwaies take tboie termes , when wee refolve our owne 
perf^afions) chat is, for a refolutionofa 11 doubts or de- 
mands concerning the fobjecl whereof wee treat ; aRo- 
mane Catholiques faith, muft, according to his Principles, 
finally be refoived into the Churches or Popes infallibility. 
For this is the immediate ground , or firft caufe of any par- 
ticular determinate point of Chriftian Faith : and the im- 
mediate is alwayes that, into which our perfvvafions con- , 

cernins 



l^% 



126 



the onelj ground of faith. 



cerning the efte61: , is finally refolved, feeing it can lacisfie 
a! I demands, doubts , or queftions concerning it. 

It will not heipe them to colouroverthe matter, and 
fay, God revealing divine truth is the formallobjeilof 
faith: ForfeeingGod worketh mediately, and revealeth 
no truth untousbutbyexternallmeanes : and divine au- 
thoritieinitfelfeishidden and unknowne : therefore the 
thing whereinto our faith is refolved , muft be ibmething 
externally knowne , which wee may reade or heare. And 
our Adverfaries muft leade us to fecret revelation , which 
in words they pretend fo much to defie , or yeeld us an ex- 
ternall foundation and formall obje6l of faith : And reje- 
<5ling the Scriptures, whatlbever they glofe in words , they 
neither can > nor doe name us any other indeed , but the 
'T^w?^* Pope and Church. - 

Nor will it boot them ought to fay, that Gods Word 
in the Churches mouth is the rule of faith , whereinto it is 
finally refolved , feeing the Church defines nothing but by 
Gods Word written or unwritten. For this is more than 
the party which beleeves it can know; nor hath hee any 
I other motive to beleeve it, befides the Churches definition 
\ or aflertion. Suppofe thenweefhould conceive fb well of 
a temporall Judge , as to perfume hee did never ipeake but 
according to the true meaning either of ftatute orcufto- 
marie law : yet if wee could not know either the one or the 
^ther , or their right interpretation , but onely by his de- 
terminations; the law were little beholden to him (un- 
leffe for a floute ) that fhould fay, he were refolved joy ntly 
by the Judge audit. For feeing the Law is to him altoge- 
ther uncertaine , but by the Judges avouchment or inter- 
pretation, his laft refolutionof any aft of jnftice, muft bee 
onely into the Judges skill and fidelity. 

It is true indeed , that the Churches authority is not 
comprehended in theobjefl ofbeleefe, whileftit onely 
^ropoleth other Articles to beebeleeved. No more is the 
Sunne comprehended under the objeftofour aduall fight, 
whileft we behold colours, or other vifible things by the 

vertue 



cod and Chri[i is the onelj objeci of true confidence. 127 



venue of it : But yet, as it could not make colours or other j 
things become morevifible untousj tinlefle kC^tlft were j 
the firft vifible (that is, unlefleit might bee feene more j 
clcareJy than thofe things which wee fee by it, fo wee i 
would direct our fight unto it ; ) fo would it bee impofsi- | 
ble, the Churches infallible propofall (honldbe thereafon j 
ofaRomane Catholikcs beleefe of Scriptures^ or their or- 
thodoxalHenfe, unlefleit were the firftand principall ere- | 
diblci ocprimarieobjeilofhisbelcefe, or that which muft | 
bee moft clearely, moft certainly, and moft ftedfaftly be lee- I 
ved, foas all other articles befidesmuft bebeleevedby the 1 
beleefe of it. Nor is this propofall of the Church necefla- | 
rieto thefirft plantation of faith onely, but to the growth 
and continuance of it,* as well after faith is produeed, 
whileftit continues, as whiles it is in planting. 

§.3. Buttoleavethismyfterieof Romifhiniquitie, and 
toreturne to the matter. Theauthoritieofthe Church is 
not the ground of Chriftian faith, but the holy Scriptures ; 
and faith refteth not upon the Saints, but upon Jefiis Chrift. 
God and Chrift is the obje6l of confidence according to 
the Scripture, a God as the author and parent of all good 
things, of whom are all things and wee in him : ^ Chrift as 
the onely Mediatour of God and men , by ivhom are all 
things, andwe hy him: or by whom God Dcftoweth upon 
usallfavingblefsings, andby whom wee come unto God. 
c They are accurfed, who make the arme of fiefli their ftay, 
and truft in man, in whom there is no help or power. 
Theprefent faith of Be leavers hath the lame object with 
the faith oi ^damzktT his fall, A hi, Abraham, Noah, 
David, the Virgin C^/i«r/>, all the Patriarchs, Prophets, 
and Apoftles. For faith is ^ one in objed and kind, though 
dift'erent in number and degree. But the confidence of 
Adam, Ahel,Noah, Ahaham,8cc. wasexerciled about, 
or dire6led unto God in Chrift ; not fet upon any Saint. 
Abraham and the reft , who lived before and under the 
Law , beleeved in the Mefsias to come : The Apoftles 
and all the faithfull fince, beleeve ix\ Chrift already 



come 



§ B-. 

God Aid Chrift 

(not the Church 

and Saints) it the 

onely abje^ tfall 

true csnfidtnce and 

truft- 

a Efay25-j^^. 

Pral.Ijc.y,<!,7. 

and 22.5. 

Provj.f. 

b Juh.14.1. 

I Pet.i.2i. 

Roni.3.22. 

Pfa!.2 .2. 

c Jeicm 17.;. 



H.b.TJ 8. 



■ 

12 8 cod and Chrift u the onely objetf of true confidence. 



BeUar. de C^^fi^- 
lii/.l, cap-%. 



Catech. %om. 
part.i, ca^.xi. 

Rhem, xAnnot, in 



Exod.14.Jl. 
2 Chron.ao.JO" 



Deut, 2 8. 66. 
Job 14.22- 
Efay J3-I5- 
I Sam.27.i2t 
Jona.J-J. 



j Jcr.17.?. 



PfaI.io6.ii 



come : But in nature the obje61: of their faith is one and 
the fame. 

Our Adverfaries confefle thus mnch ', BelUrmine proves 
Chrift to be God, becaule it is written of him, BUfed are 
they that fut their trKBin him : And the Scripture, iaith 
he,teacheth everie where, that we muft puc our cruft in the I 
true God alone. The Romane Catechifme teacheth, that 
webelecve the holy Church, not in the Church: by which 
divers forme of ipeaking, fay they, God the Creatour is 
diftinguiftied from things created. But the Rhemifts in 
defence of their Saint-invocation, are driven to fay, that 
wee are to truft in the Saints departed, and that the Scrip- 
ture ufeth alio this Ipeech, tobelecvein men, zSyThej be- 
leevedinthe Lordt and in his fervant Mofes : *BeUeve in 
the Lord, and yee (hattbe efiahlijbed, heleeve in hit Prs' 
phetSy &c- This is their firft pretence, whereby they feeke 
to cover their idolatrie, whereas they might eafiiy have 
knowne, that the Vulgar and the Seventie both tranflate 
thefe ^hctSiThey heleeved Molcs>and beieeve his Prefkets: 
and not, they believed in Mofes, beieeve in bis Prophets, 
And it is certaine, the prepofition here added in Hebrew, 
doth not ever anfwet to In, in our language. What ? that it 
is no lefle than blafphemie to fay, that the Ifraelites were 
commanded to put their confidence in Mofes and the Pro- 
phets, either as the principall authors and parents of any 
good, or as Mediators betwixt God and them , by and 
through whofe mediation they fhould obtaine all good 
things fpirituall and temporall. For lb they fhould have j 
made them their arme, who were but fieOi. What is al- 
ledged out o^Exodm , LMofes fpeaketh in reproach of the 
IfraeliteSi who beleeved neither the Lord, nor Mofes, tou- 
ching the promife of their deliverie OHt of z/Eg^pty untill 
fuch time as they having quite pafled the Red Sea, did fee 
their enemies dead in the Sea. And though they beleeved 
the truth of the Lord, and the word of his fervant, when 
they had the accomplifliment of his promife ; yet they 
did not confidently betake thcmlelves to the Lord , as 

their J 



cod and ChriH ts the onely object of true confidence. 1 2 p 



their onely refuge, and reft under the ftiadow of his wings. , 
For the Lord complaineth often of their infidelitie towards 
him ; and the hiftorie makes mention of their diftruft, 
murmuringj and rebellion againft the Lord. In the other 
place the people are praifed, as thofe who refted in the 
word of the Prophet, before that the promife was eflfe- 
<fted : But they leaned not upon the Prophets, as authors 
of their help,* neither bad that beene praife- worthy in 
them, nay, it had beene deteftable idolatrie. If they will 
have the Hebrew prepofition to be of force in thofe places, 
by Afofes and the Prophets, we are to underftand the word 
taught by (JKofes and the Prophets from God , as the 
Chaldeeexplainethit; theybeleeved in the Word of the 
Lord, andintheprophecieof v^<?/^xhis lervant. Theex- 
pofition of both texts may be taken out of that of the Lord 
to Afofest Lee, I come unto thee in a thicke cloudithat the 
people may heare rvhen IJpeake with thee, and beleeve thee 
for ever : that is, that they may receive thee for a faithfull 
and trueProphet,and beleeve in the Word that I dial make 
knowne unto them by thee. And as the Ifraelites are faid 
to be lfaftiz,ed i»to Mofes^ that is, into the do(Strine or Law 
di Mofes^ whereof hee was a Mi nifter: fb are they faid^o 
beleeve in Mofes and the Prophets, that is, in the Word 
which they taught from God. They were the inftru- 
ments and Nfinifters of the Lord, and minifterially the 
"people beleeved in them, that is, in the Word of the Lord 
publifhcd by them. Of Sion it is faid , the foore of his 
people jhall truft in it. The meaning is not , that the 
faithfull fhall put their truft in Sion, as wee muft hope in 
God : but that the inhabitants of Sion (hall dwell in a 
quiet and fecure place ; as the Prophets often affirme, 
that falvatian is in Sion- It may well bee tranflated. 
The poore of his people Jhall betake themfelves unto it , 
as unto a place of protei5>ion and refuge by the blef. 
fingof God : not as unto the chiefeftayand prop of their 
{buJes. 

They further objef); , that the Apoftle referreth faith 

K and ^ 



Pfal78.2S. 
Hcb.3.i»» 



lit. I. eaf.xt. 
SeH.lUuident^ue, 



Exod.ip.9. 
Jobj.45. 



I Coir.io-2. 



E(ay ifjt. 



Joeli-Jt. 

Job 24-S. 
Pfal.io4.i3. 



130 God and ChriH is the onelj oh]e5f of true confidence. 



Philem.y. 
"Bellur- de beati- 
tud. SanU. lib.i' 

Verf.iS. 



Ephef.i.J5. 
Colofrr.4. 



and love to the Saints, faying; Hearing of thy love and 
faith, which thou haB towards t^je Lord Jefui, and toward 
all Saints. But in this place faith is referred oncly to Chrift, 
and love to the brethren, as it appeareth in the two ver- 
(es next following. In the former whereof faith is retrai- 
ned unto Chrift, and in the latter, the love here mentioned 
is carried to the brethren: which appeareth alfo, in that, 
other where upon the fame occafion, hee fo diftinguifheth 
faith and love, that faith is appropriated unto Chrift, and 
love referred to the Saints. For the verie wordsalib, the 
Apoftle hath fo fenced them, that although the truth were 
not otherwife cleare, our Adverfaries can have no advan- 
tage for their do6>rine of pinning our moft holy faith up- 
on the flee ve of e verie Saint: For although hee have cou- 
pled Charitie and Faith together, which in other Epiftles 
hee doth diftinotly referrcthe one to Chrift, the other to 
thef^ithfuH; yet hee hath ufed prepodtions, which note 
thatfaithmuft pafie no further than to Chrift, as charitie 
goeth no further in this place, but unto the Saints. For 
where the prepodtion [e/?] is fiich as might have ferved 
both to note our faith towards Chrift, and our charitie to- 
wards our brethren ; hee declares that hee would not have 
Faith and Charitie carried to one and the lame obje6t, by 
the choyce of feverall bands of prepo(itions,wherewith to 
tie each of tbele vertues with the fubje6l whereunto they 
belong. But to gee no further than to the 'B^emifts Tranf- 
lation. Can they lay,that wee have charitie in the Lord Je- 
fus? If with, the latter claufe farther removed, which is 
towards all Saint Syth&yY^iW have both Charitie and Faith 
conjoyned, it followeth much more, that with this claufe^ 
In th& Lord Jefus^ which is neerer unto charitie than the 
other, they ought both alfo to bee coupled- if this be ab- 
furd, mucnmore isit^ that upon this ground of coupling 
Faith and Charitie together, they would have them both 
carried and applyed unco thele words, Unto the Saints. As 
for the order of words , and coupling things together, 
which are to be referred diflin<ftly, the ^ke is tobee found 

in 



The bene fts andeffccis of Faith. 



in other paflkges of holy Scripture. Againe , Love and / Matth.i;^ 
Faith may be put for faiihfull, firme, and ftcdfaft love ; the 
M^e. whereunto wee may often find. But by this wreftinc 
of the place, our Adverlaries are driven, notonelytobe- 
leeveifltheCatholike Church, but aI(o in every feverall 
member of the Catholike Church. For feeing the Apo- 
ftle commendeth Philemon for his love towards every 
Saint that came unto him; itfolloweth, that if ( as they 
(ay) he commendeth faith towards the Saints , hee com- 
mendeth it towards every man a part : and fo every Chri- 
ftianistobeleeveinother : which our Adverfaries will not 
affirmc. 



CHAP. X. 

Of the £jf<r^/, SftbjeU and Degrees ofjftfii- 
fjfing Faith. 



§. I, 



Mr' 



and excellent are the fruits and effects 
of faith , for which caufe it hath beene a- 
dorned with many fingular titles of honour. It is called 
the gift of gifts, the Ibule of our Ibule, the root of an ho- 
neft life, the charader of the fonnes of God, the key 
whereby the treafures which are in Chrift are opened un- 
to us , the mother of found joy , and nurfe of a good con- 
fcience , the hand whereby we apprehend Chrilt, the eye 
whereby wee fee the invifible things of God, the month 
whereby wee receive the food of lalvation , the pledge of 
our eternall inheritance , the earneft of our peace with 
God , the feale of our election , the ladder whereby wee 
certainely and fafely afcend up to Heaven , the fliield 
of a faithfull Ibule , the {\vord whereby wee beat and 
wound our enemies , the token of our union in Chrift , 
ourvidory, and the band whereby wee are united un- 
to the chiefe good. The fruits of faith are divided into 
two Heads; Internalland Externall, which the Schoole- 
men call EUcite and Imperate. But to ipeake of them 

K 2 orderly 



§.t. 

The benefits and 
effeifs of Faith. 



132 



The benefits andejfecis of Faith. 



Rom.it.x7' 
John I J.I • 
Epher-S-Ja* 

Rom. 8, 10. 
2 Cor. 1 3 3,?. 

riof. 2 1 8^ 20. 

Ad. 10.13. 
Rom.3.af,3?. 
Acls 13.39- 
Rom.9.32.&t. 
,7.& 5- 1. 

kSi 15.9. 

Col. 1 il. 
Gal.5-7-9- 
Johniz. 3^. 
Gal 3.26. 
John I. iz« 
Heb. n.tf' 
John 7.38,39' 
EpheCi.iJ.i?' 
Gal. 3. 14- 
Johnij^J. 



Gal. z.ao. 

John 4. I4« 

Ephef. 3.17. 
Enhcnj.12. 
Heb. io.2». 8e 
4. 14. 
Tit. T.iy. 
1 Pet- 1 . 5. 
I John S.4« 



orderly as they are fee downe in Scripture , wee finde them 
fobetheie 

By faith we are engraved into Chrifiiandmade one with 
h/myjiefb ofhisfieJh,afid bone of his ifone,Vwcly members of 
that body, whereof he is the head : and by Chnit wee are 
united untoGod. In Scripture to be in Chrift,and to be in 
Faithi are put indifferently. By faith wee are married unto 
Chrift, and have communion with him in his death and re- 
furre^ionj he and all his benefits are truly and verily made 
ours; his name is put upon us, wee arejuftified from the 
guilt and punifhment of finne, wee are clothed with his 
righteoufneffe , wee are fandfified againft the power of 
finne , having our nature healed and our hearts purified : 
wee draw vertue from him to die to finne , and live to 
.righteoufnefle. By faith wee are admitted into the Family 
c£ AbrahaWi become the children of light, are adopted to 
bee the Sonnes of God^ are made acceptable unto him as 
heires of life, unto whom hee willeth eternall bleflednefTe, 
and doe receive the promife of the Spirit. By faith wee 
abide in Chrift, and have perpetual! communion with 
him. Itistheloadf^onethatlookesevertoChrifl, as that 
doth towards the North : and as that drawes iron unto 
it , fb doth faith joyne our hearts to Chrifl perpetually. By 
faith we receive of Chrif^s fulnefle, have pofTeffion of him , 
doe live in him , and are fo refrefhed by him , that we fhall 
never wither or ^^tlt fcarcity. Water in a ditch may bee 
dried up , fo cannot the pond which is fed with continuall 
Iprings. By faith Chrift dwelleth, and ruleth in our hearts, 
we have accefle to the throne of grace , the temporall gifts 
of God are fandified unto us, all fpirituall bleffingsare 
continued and augmented in us, and we are kept to thefal- 
vation to be revealed. Faith overcommeth the world; the 
manifold ill examples of the multitude , which like a ra- 
ging i^rcame beares downe all before it, and the alluring 
fvveet baires of the deceitfull inchanting world , which 
are moft firong and dangerous ; even whatibever within 
us or without us would draw from the law of God ; it 
• quen- 



IChe Benefits And Effech of Faith, 



133 



quencheth the fierie darts of the Devillj putteth Satan to \ ^ff'%^^' 
flight, and keepeth usfafe firom the mightie adverfarie of | Ma"j^ljf" 
our ibulcs and iaivation. Faith obtaineth of God what wee 
aske agreeable tohiswill, prevailech with him, makcth 
the ordinances of God fweet and comfortable , receiveth 
what is profcred in the Word and Sacraments,and ma- 
keth that wee (hall never be afhamed or confounded. 
Faith cncrcafeth knowledge, enflameth the heart with 
love ftrongcr than death, hotter than coales of Juniper, 
which cannot be quenched With much water ; ftirreth 
up earneft fighes and groanes , enlargeth the heart in 
thankfdlnefle and holy admiration , bloweth andquicken- 
eth zeale , renounceth Sathan and all his workes, crucifi- 
eth the flefti with the affections and lufts ; contemneth 
the world , fcorneth the bafe and tranfitory pleaiiires or 
profits whereby it doth allure towith-draw from God, 
anddefpifeth the frownes, threats, and utmoft wrongs 
that it can doe, inrefpe6lof the love of God andChrift 
JefiiSjor hazzarding his part in the eternall happineflfe. It 
armeth with patience and invincible ccnflancy, breedeth 
peace of conlcience and joy unfpeakeable , maketh valiant 
in the combate, (driving againfl fin , courageous in diffi- 
culties, confident in defperate dangers ; is accompanied 
with holy fecurity concerning the grace, prote6lion , and 
love of God , joyned with a certaine expe<5lation of eter- 
nall falvation , and aflurance that all things fhall worke 
together forthebefl. It feaibneth prorperitie,receiveth 
earthly blelTings as pledges of Gods fpecialland Father- 
ly love, and lifteththemupto fpirituallufe: it fweetens 
afflictions , lapporteth under them , teacheth to profit 
by them , beareth them meekely, expei5teth deliverance, 
andtriumpheth before the viStoxy, It feeth things invi- 
fible , affureth above likelihood , fenfe or reafon , allay- 
eth perplexing thoughts and feares, and break eth off 
temptations. It fl:ayeth upon the word of promife, and 
is confident of things, to reafon incredible, in nature 
impofTible, to lenfe diredl contrary, becaufe God hath 

K 2 . . : ... faid 



I John 5.14. 
Gen.3i.2(y. 
Heb.4.2. 
Rom.i.itf. 

Rom. J.J. 
& 1 0.1 1. 

1 PecL^". 
Pfal.sr.S.Sf 

Johntf.6S,<Sj. 

Gal. 5. 6. 

Luke 7.47. 

T Pet.i.8. 

Rom.8.26- 

Gal.4.tf. 

Rom.3.iJ. 

Gal-fi.i4. 

Epef.j.ir. 

Hcb.n.S.zj. 



Rom J.I. 

I Pec 1.7. 
a Cor i.j>. 
Phil,i.2j. 
Rem. 14.7. 

1 Pec. 1. 8. 
John 8.5tf. 

2 TiiTi.i.ia. 
Heb.ii.J4,3 5. 
2 Chron.i4.11. 

&i0.l2. 

I John J.ir. 
Luke 7.J0. 
Epkef.2.8. 
Rom.8.2?, 
Gals.j. 

I:Ieb.6.I2. 

Heb.ir.i. 
John R.jS. 
Hcb.ii.ii,i7,tp. 



134 



The Benefits and Effecis of Faith, 



Efay aS.i^. 

Dan. ^.aj. 
Jer. 39. 1 8' 
rtom 11.20, 

aCor.4'iJ' 
iTim. J.ij- 
Rom.i.ia*' 
Pfal.16.5. 
Luk.a2 31,5s • 
Jam. 5.1 S. 
Heb.io.38,3^ 
& ii4.'-j7.8- 
33,34- 
Colof.2.7. 
2TheflV2.i3. 
Rom.ii ao.& 
5.1,1. 
.Jn.l.1.3. 
Ifay 40.30,31. 
Phil. 4. n. 
I Pet. i.s« 
EpheCa 8- 
Rom4.i}ji4' 



raid them/ It preferveth from ill meanes; laboureth con- 
icionably in the duties of cur callings , yet without cove- 
toufnefle or diftra6ling care ; f;valloweth the painfulneflfc 
of hpneft labour , and obtaineth many temporall bleHings 
and deliverances, yea and fpirituall priviledges for our 
(tlves, for our potterity, and for others. Faith preferveth 
from falling, raifeth us againe being falleri,maketh courage- 
ous and hardy in the profeflion of the Goipel , even to the 
lofle of goods, liberty, and death it felfe : it fweetneth the 
communion of S?ints,Iinketh the heart in love to them that 
feare God, laboureth the converfion of them that goe a- 
ftray , and the building forward of them that bee called, 
and the comfort of them that be diftrefled infoule or body ; 
maketh profitable to thofe that bee without , worketh 
righteoufneflcobtaineth a good report , & wholly refigneth 
it felfe to the will of God. And to concludcby faith wee are 
certified of our eleftion, are made wife unto falvationi 
doe ftandin grace, are aflfared of prolperons (wcc&^t in 
what wee goe about, doe learne how to want and how to 
I abound, and poffeffe all things when for the prefent wee 
have nothing in hand : are enriched with many fpirituall 
f graces , are kept to our heavenly inheritance , and fhall 
bee glorified in the life to come. Thefe bee the found, 
comfortable, enduring fruits of faith, in which refpeft who 
can but fay, that faith is an excellent grace , a rich jewell, 
a pearlc of price, the Chrifliian mans treafure? Faith is a 
principall thing , the merchandife thereof is betterthan fil- 
ver, and the firuits thereof than fine gold* Without faith • 
there is no plenty to man on earth : with faith there can 
bee no want of any thing that is good. For how can hee 
lacke any good thing , who hath God for bis Father, 
Chrifl: his Saviour, the holy Ghoft his fealer and comfor- 
ter, the Angels to guard him , Heaven his inheritance: 
who hath Gods faithfuU promifc, confirmed by oath and 
feale, to fecure him of all things needfull, grace, com- 
fort and earthly bleflings , and is' kept by the power of 
God unto jalvation ? 

But 



J 



Man onely u capahle ofjuftifying Faith, 



135 



' But here it muft bee obferved, that faith doth not efFe<^ 
and performethefe things , by any cxcellencie 3 force , or 
efficacie ofits owne above other graces, but in reipeil of 
the office whereunto it i% afllgncd in the Covenant of 
grace. It is acaufeonely Inftrumentall, and that is attri- 
buted unto it , which the principal! caufe worketb. Faith 
juftifies not as an ad or quality , but as it receivcth Chrift : 
faith purifieth not the heart of itfelfejbut asitisthcin- 
ftrument whereby the Spirit vvorketh. Whatfoever wee 
are made by faith, weeare made it in Chrift ; and what- 
fbever faith makes to be ours , it is allb in Chrift. There- 
fore faith maketb not God to be our God, but in Chrift : 
nor us the children of God, but in Chrift. And whatfoe- 
ever grace is wrought in the heart of any man , it is the gift 
ofGod, the Works of the holy Ghoft : but faith is the Inr 
ftrnmertd wbereby the Spirit doth more and moire renew 
and pnn fie our hearts. ' ^ " ■ ..; . >^ 

§. I . Of all creatures onely man is capable of laving of 
juftifyirig faith : not the bleffedAngclss who never finned j 
nor the cvili Angels , who are fhut up in prilbn, and 
referved in chaines of darkneffe againft the day of judge- 
ment. .-' ■ ' ^ '/'■ , '-'^^'^ ' '■ • ■'^- ■' 
^' The Saints in glory doe injoy immediate feliowfliip arid 
communion with God by fight , and know moft perfeftly 
aridmoft clearely : But the light ofjuftifying faith, which 
doth -intlude and fuppofe imperfedlion j 'pertaineth to this 
life>inivhich we are in the way moving to petfedHon , not 
yet attained unto perfeit vifion. So that faith is proper 
unto man in this life , in his journey towards his perfesft 
home and eternall habitation : but all men are not en- 
riched with this precious gift of mercy, and rarejewell 
of grace. _i !-' ^^ ">'^^i,y'-^'\ tY>. ."L) sf.:-:ii ilRwjb/J^>rloi/cy| 
AUmenf^a^^e'kkfAith- I^any aremoc^bmifchas out^' 
wardly called, the found of the Gofpel hath not reached 
lintothem : many that hearcunderrtand not i be not afte- 
6led with the truth : and in fome that bee affected, the 

is not well planted. Thole 
K 4 to 



§2. 

Of all creatures 
Jlian onely u ca- 
pable ofjuftifj- 
ingfaith, ' 
a Pec. 2. 4. 



word takes not kind rooting , 



I fay 53-I- 
Matth.ir.aj. 
&1J.11. 
Rom ?.i8. 



13(5 



Man omly is capable of Jufiifying Faith, 



Tit.i.i. 
Afts 13.48. 
Rom.ii.Ji 
John 10.1 1,1 y,26« 
John 6.57,39. & 
io.ap.& 17.1,6. j 



MaM.it. 



Mat.Ti.28. 



I John 5.1. 

5ohni.ii,iJ. 
oha <J.4't. 



Mar.T 15- 
Lukei4-49' 



Lukeij 3. 
I John 1.9. 
Afts II.I?. 



^ to whom faith is given are deferibed to be the eleEi of God, 
the Jheepe of Chriji- » and to be given of the Father unto 
ChriB, 

The fiibjei^orjuftifying faith is man a (inner, called ac- 
cording to the purpofe of God, acknowledging his often- 
ces, and hungringand thirfting after mercy. For none but a 
finner can acknowledge Chrift for his Saviour, for he is the 
Saviour of jlnners. Faith in Chrift for remiffion of finnes 
h neceflary for themonely who have offended.: but every 
finner cannot beleeve , every one ii not fit to receive the 
promife of mercy. The enemies of the Golpell of Chrift, 
worldlings, hypocrites, and all in whom fit) reigneth , can 
have no true faith in Chrift: he onely is fit to embrace 
mercy ^ whoknoweth that he isloftinhimfelfe, and un- 
fatiably defires to be eafed of the heavie burden of his 
fins. -Faithisnotaworkenaturall, butfuper-naturall; not 
of nature, but of grace ; not of the power of our fi:ee-will, 
but of the efficacic of Gods Spirit, whereby we anfwer to 
theeffe6luallcallof God, and come unto him, that we 
might be partakers of life eternall- The infufion of faith i^ 
neceffarily precedent to the ad of faith , and grace to be- 
leeve is given before we lay hold upon Chrift. And if la- 
ving-effedluallcallingbe precedent to faith, the fubjetftof 
living faith 1% man favingly called according to the purpofe 
of Gods will. We can teach no faith to falvation , but ac- 
cording to the rule of Chrift, %efenti and beleeve the Go- 
fpell ; no remiffion of fins , but according to the like rule. 
But faith feeketh and receiveth pardon as it is profered in 
the word of grace. Repentance is neceflarie to^the pardon 
of fin, as a condition without which it cannot be obtai- 
ned, not as acaufewhy it is given. If mercy fliould be 
vouchiafed to all indifferently , the grace of God (liould 
beaboulfter to mans finne , there fhould be no difference 
betwixt the jdft and unjuft, the penitent and obftinate. 
Faith commeth to Chrift as an humble penitent petitioner, 
filing to the throne of grace for what is promifed in the 
Gofpel,and it receiveth according to the promife of mercy. 

§.3. The 



Faith rkfideth both in Minde and Will, 



137 



§.g. The feat of faith is the heart, but the heart con- 
trite, humbled, bewailing finne, denying it felfe, and affe- 
S(z^ with defire of remilTion of finnes. As the ftomacke is 
the place in which meat is received , but it 1% neceffary 
it be defirous of meat : lb the heart is the place where 
remiffion of finnes is received and felc, but it muftbe an 
heart defirous of, and thirfting after pardon. With the heart 
man beleeveth. if the mind and will be two diftinil fa- 
culties of the ibule, then juftifying faith is refident in both, 
but principally in the will j becaule it aflcnteth to divine 
revelation as true, and embraceth the promifes as much 
better than any contrarie good, the world, theDivell, or 
flefh can prefent to prevent our choice of what itpreicri« 
beth for our faving health. Forthe word of promife, not 
onely containing truth, but offering good unto us, cannot 
fully be received with the underftanding, but the will alio 
murt move towards it. And lb faith is not onely a know- 
ledge or aflent in the mind, but a godly affection in the 
will, which doth goe to., embrace, reft upon Chrift , or the 
grace offered in Chrift. Therefore the nature of faith is de- 
icribed by words, which fignifie to l^ay and roll our felves 
upon God, andtoleaneonhimas one would leane upon 
a ftaffe : and by faith we come unto Chrift and receive 
him. , 

It is obje<9:ed, that one and the lame vertne or grace 
cannot be in diftinft powers and faculties of thefbule, nor 
faith in diftin61:fubje£bs. Whereunto feverall anfwers are 
made : Firft, that one and the fame thing in divers refpedts 
may be referred to divers lubje6ts, as thcfe ftibje6ts are not 
altogether Separated, but conjoyned amongft themfelves. 
Sofriendfhip is one roorallvertue, and yet in the minde 
and will both. Love and hatred is nothing but the af- 
fedlion of good or evill will unto a thing knowne in the 
underftanding. Our Adverfaries themfelves place hope in 
the underftanding and the will, attributing a double cer- 
raintie unto it, one in re(pe61: of the underftanding , ano- 
ther in re(pe6t of the will. And fo faith being one, doth 

properly 



5j. 

'Faith rejid^th 
heth in^Aindand 

mu. 



Rom.io.TO. 

Ads S.37. 

a Pet.T.r?. 

Zach/Boveriut 

cap.ff,ifymb. 

'BonaveyiiHrit in 

^difl %}.q,2.art,r, 

Suare^d.l.S.c-if, 

n.z. 

Sotus di natura if 

grca.l.2,c.6' 



Bellar.de j^ufiif. 
Hm Thilofopbia. 



leUdr.defitfUf. 



1 -J 38 



I Reg.5,5. 
2Coi.j.i'5. 
Afts 7. 39.& 
II. 2.5. 
I Cor .7.37. 
Mat. 6.2 !• 
Rom.T.s4. 
Joh. 141. 
Luk. !.«<?. 

&2I.I4. 

Mat- 12.3?. 
Mat.i 5.14,1 J. 



J'^/?^ refideth both in Minde and Will. 

properly pof&fleone fiibje^l, to wit, thefonle ': butcon- 
fidered according to the two faculties thereof, it poflefleth 
the minde, as it underftandeth and affenteth ; the will , as 
it receiveth and embraceth the word ofpromife- Secondly 
it is anfwered , that faving faith doth prefuppofe know- 
ledge and aflTent as the root and foundation: but formally 
it is an affe(^ion towards the promife of grace, andfeaced 
in the heart. As the realbnable foule doth give life, fenfe, 
and n;otion as inferiour operations : lb juftifying faith 
doth know and a Rent, but as juftifying it doth trtifl and 
rely upon the mercy of God in Jeliis Chrift. Thirdly , ju- 
ftifying faith , or faith as it juftifyeth, is not one vertue, 
nor any vertue,but juftifiethonely as it makes us partakers 
oftherighteoufnefleof Chrift -, which ic doth not by any 
dignity or excellencie of its ownc, but inrefpedlofthef 
pkee and office which our mercifullGod hath freely arid 
liberally granted unto it .Now nothing hindreth,why God 
rhould not givethe name of faith both to aflent in the un- 
derftanding, and to affiance in the will, and require both to 
juftification. And that it is not a vertue as it juftifieth, is 
manifeft hereby > that wee are juftifiedbythea(ftoffaith> 
not by the habit offaith, as Divines Popifti and Proteftant 
confefle. 

But if minde and will be indeed but two names or titles 
of one and the lame intellecluall nature, as truth and good- 
nefle in matters morall differ onely in degrees of app're- 
henfton , then there i^ no roomc for this objetSliont Not 
to difpute this point any further , this is manifeft , that 
in Scripture the heart is taken for the whole Ibule, with 
all its powers and operations j as of underftanding , wil- 
ling and chooftng,remembring or retaining in minde, and 
affe(Sl:ing; that the Scripture doth fimp ly attribute to 
the heart knowledge , confidence , and aflfedlion ; and 
that the Scripture hath no peculiar words , whereby that 
philofophicall diftin61:ion of minde and will may be confir- 
med :and therefore according to the fentence of Scripture, 
Wee may feat faith in the heart or realbnable Ibule , and 

not 



Faith is fecultAr to them who Are called^ ^c. 



139 



not trouble our felves about the diftindion ofthefa- 
^cuJties. 

If the Scripture mention this as an a<Sl of faith , To be- 
leevfi that Chrifi is the Sonne ofGod)SN\i\^ is ieaced in the 
minde ; it muti bee remembred, that words of knowledge 
doe together by connotation imply affection , much more 
words of beJeefe : and therefore where weefinde Tobe- 
Jeeve thatChriftisthefbnneofGod, wee muft conceive 
this beleefe to containe confidence in the Sonne. Words 
of knowledge moft ufiially import, not idle knowledge 
in the minde, but true and unfained affe6iions in theheartj 
which accompany that knowledge. Knowledge i% the 
ground of confidence , and fo \t is put for confidence which 
it doth bring forth. 

The whole intelle£^uall nature is the leat of faith, and 
that faith which juftifyeth is well-rooted, and taketh 
kindly in the foule; otherwife it could not feafon the 
whole lumpe , difperfe its vertue into every affedlion, com- 
mand every paflTion , and brir^into fubje^lion whatfoever 
doth make head againlt the power of godlinefTe. Faith 
that \^ not well planted can neither hyx\^\y receive , nor 
firmelyhoIdChrift; butby theallurementsof the world, 
the lurts of the flefh, and affaults of Satan it is eafily over- 
turned. The ftonie ground received the feed, but wanting 
good root it vyithered , and brought forth no fruit to ripe- 
nefle. Whileft faith poffefifeth the caftleofthe foule, it 
can as eafily overcome the aflauksoftheFlefh, the World, 
and the Devill ; as honeft fubjefls , which hold the heart 
of the Kingdome , can vanqiiiHi and bring under the (cat- 
tercd forces of an enemie, that makes inrodes upon the 
borders. But if the heart be taken up with worldly delights, 
or vainelufts be fuffered to build their caftle therein, then 
fliall we be made a prey to Satan. The cares of the world 
and pleafures of this life choake the feed of life received, 
that it brings forth no fruit unto perfc6lion. 

§. 4. This faith well rooted is common to all, and pro- 
per to them onely, who be called according to the purpole 

of 



Pfal.ai.a. 
Pfal.iii).ii.2o. 
Pro. J. 5. 
Chemnit. loe, 
cam. de.Juflif^ 
feU.Poftremum 
memb .de dtf fid. 
1 Joh.5.1. 
ftom.io.S. 
ijoh. 5.4,5. 
20. ver/e. 
I Joh a. 4. 
Pial.78.22. 
Pral.ij74,y. 
Neh. 6.14.& 
I3.i4,2p. 
John 17.3. 
rieb,4.2,5. 
HccLijr I. 



§.4. 
Fat'th u p/culiar 
to ih:m,whebe 
called according 
to thsfurpofi of 
God. 



140 



All have not Uke meajure of Faiths 



iCor.^'.ij, 
Mat.p.2. 
iPet.i.1. 
[ Pet.r.7, 
Rom. 1. 17. 
GaI.^.^o. 
1 Johnj.sj. 
Hab.2.4. 
John 20.27. 
Afts 15.31. & 

Mar.11.2j. 
John 14.1, - 

1 Pet. 1.7. 
Heb.ii.(S'j7,S.p, 
io,&c. 

Gal. 3.2!?. 
Ads 8.37. 
Jamei 5.14,15. 
Phil.i.ij. 
Ephen(S.i8. 

2 Thef.51. 



Heb.10.5f. 



^11 have not 

like meafute of 

faith. 

Rom.t2 J. 

Mat.S.io.&iS. 

28. 

Mat.f.3o.&8. 

25.&14.J1.& 

i<i.8. 

Mar.9.24. 

Rom. 4.20. 

Rorr.T4.i. 

&i5,i. 



5 of God. All that be favingly-cffeaually called, and they 
lonely, are partakers of the fame faith in fubjea, objea 
kind , but not in nHmber and degree. Every bekever hath 
a proper, fingularjfincere, individual! faith, in kinde the 
fame, but in number differing fron:i the faith of others ; as 
the faith of Peter was diftinft from the faith of the other 
Difciples. The juft doth live bj his ore ne faith. A ipe- 
ciall and particular faith is required in every one that 
fliallbefaved. This particular faith is commended by the 
KolyGhoftin particular faithfullmen and women; and 
when the faithfull of age and difcretion were admitted 
to Baptifme, they profeffed particularly their faith in 
Chritt. 

Health of body, and fuch like outward bleffings, may be 
conferred by God upon one for the faith of another. And 
the children of Chriftian parents are within the covenant 
for their parents faith, as the promife is made to the faith- 
ful land to their feed, and they receive it for themfelves 
and their poftcrity. And generally the faith of one may 
helpe to obtaine for another, fo farre as it moveth to 
pray for others. But remiffion of finnes and falvation is 
not obtained without a proper and fpeciall faith in them 
that be of ripe yeeres , and have the ufe of reafon. God 
takes no pleafure in them who with-draw themfelves by 
unbeliefe. ^ 

§.5. The faith which is beleevedis one and the fame, 
the grace whereby we beleevefupernaturallyinfufed, the 
feate of fairh an humbled and contrite heart ; but the mea- 
fure of faith is not equall or like in all. To (omeis given 
agreatermeafureof faith,toothersa lefler: faith is more 
ftrong in this Chriftian, morewcake in that. There is a 
great faith , and a little faith ; afirongfaithmd a weake 
faith. All living trees in an Orchard bee not of one 
growth or fruitfubefle : all men be not of one flature, 
eftate, or age; but fome' high, fomelowi fome rich, 
others poore; fomeftrong to labour, others thatmuft be 
borne or held up by the armes : and fo it is in the Church 

of 



{^Uha've not like nteafure of Faith. 

of God amongft Chriftians. All good ground is not equall 
\n yeelding fruit, ibme returnes an hnndred-foJd , fbme 
thirty -fold. 

Such perfection of faith is granted to no man in this 
W^Qy that neither hee nor any other can bee more perfe6l 
therein. The faith of all the eleft is fincere ; the faith 
of Ibme perfect in comparifon of others : but abiblurely 
the grcateft faith is imperfe6t. Juftifying faith fuppofeth 
imperfection, and is it {^X^^ imperfect in us fo long as wee 
live in this world. It is imperfeft extenfively in regard of 
thingsto be beleeved ; and intenfively, in refpeft of confi- 
dence, wherewith we beleeve in Chrift. Wee know no- 
thing as wee fhould , of thofe things which we know ;and 
many things we are ignorant in , which we lliould know. 
We are like the blinde man, whole eyes,now opened, be- 
gan to fee men like trees. Looke as children know not at 
all many things, yet they come to know afterward; ibwe: 
and looke as they doe not fully know thofe things which 
they know , but fuperficially ; fo i% it with us in heavenly 
matters. Hence our confidence cannot bee perfedl. For 
thofe who know God beft , truft him beft : thofe who 
dimmely know him, hisgoodnefleand truth, they can but 
weakely beleeve on him. In Speculative knowledge pertai- 
ning to dilcourfe they may farre excell who come fliort 
in confidence : butincertaine, diftin6l, pra6licall know- 
ledge they are moft excellent , that with moft lively af- 
fiance doe cleave unto the Lord . Againe , the my fteries of 
faith are fo profound,that in this life wc cannot attaine un- 
to the underftandingofthem fully and perfectly, but have 
need to pray daily, that the eyes of our minde may bee o- 
pened , that wee may more fully conceive of the things 
that pertaine to the Kingdome of God. And if our eye 
be dimme in fight , our hand is feeble in receiving. For 
our will is as much corrupt as the underfianding : and it is 
cafier to difcerne the truth , than firmely to embrace it a- 
gainft all oppofitions. The darknefie of minde is an im- 
pediment to full and perfect knowledge : the corruption 

of 



141 



non«. 

Compared with 
I Theff".3 10* 
I Tim. I .J. 
Phil. 3. 15. 



I Cor. T.13.12. 
Mar. 8. 24. 



Pral.^.io. 



2 Cor. 10. ijf. 

2 ThcflT.i.j. 
Ephdli.17, i5. 
&4.18, 1?. 
Col. X. 9,10. 



I 142 The FaithoftherveakeJlChripmtsfufficmtydrc. 1 

— — rs -— ■-. : 



Rom. I- 17* 



Pfal.yj. I, J. 8c 
30.6, 7>'' 



§.6. 

The Faith of the 

isfufficicMt tofd- 



L 



of will , which is never wholly removed in this life, is a ftop 
and let to perfect confidence.Faith groweth and encreafeth 
by degrees ; which is an argument that in this life it ne- 
ver comes to the higheft pitch of perfedHon : For that 
which is already complete in degree, needeth no augmen- 
tation. What beleever is there , who findes not a conti- 
nuallcombate of faith, againft many temptations arifing 
from his native ignorance , infidelity , diffidence , the 
wifdome of the flefh, his owne lenfe and feeling ? &c. which 
aflanlts againft faith from within doe argue the weaknefle, 
as the refittance of them demonftrates the truth of faith. 
The tree is known by its fruit, and the goodneffe of a caufe 
by the cffeds it -produceth. But the fruits of faith arc im- 
perfe6l ; as love, joy, and holinefie. The faith oi Abraham 
was great and excellent, but not perfefl in degree : He was 
ftrong in faith, and doubted not of infidelity, but of infir- 
mity hee doubted : His faith remained invincible, though 
often affaulted, but now and then it was fhaken. 

§. 6. Tlie ftrongeft faith is imperfefl ; but the meafure 
of faith is fo divided by divine providence , that to none 
who are called according to his purpofe, is given lefle than 
may fuffice to their ialvation. The meafure offaithcon- 
taineththisinit, that it be a fufficient portion for every 
one. God in bis wife providence giveth the greateft mea- 
fure of faith to them , who are toundergoe the greateft 
combats. Hee hath appointed feme for the example of o- 
thers , and in them hee propoundeth to the world certaine 
tokens of his glory and vertue : and therefore he beftovveth 
upon them a more abundant meafure of faith ; not that 
they might acquire by it more falvation, but that they 
might firiguiarly ferve for the illuftrating of the glory 
of God, and bee an helpe, comfort, and iiipport to the 
weake. In the body humane the bones have more ftrength 
than the jRefb , not that there is more life in them,but that 
they might fiiftaine the weake f^efti : fo here. There is no 
member of the body fo weake , if it be endued with thefpi- 
rit odifZ) which is not as well a true and lively member 
;__ , of 



The degrees of Faith. 



143 



of the body, as they which are better and more excellent: 1 
(b the weakcft beleever is a lively member of Chrift , as 
truly as they that are more ftrong in faith. 

§. 7. The degrees of true and lively faith may be con- 
fidered according to the divers growth, which God brin-, 
geth his children unto; and the divers meafure of grace, 
which God beftoweth upon them ; according to the time 
wherein they have been trained up in the fchoole of Chrift, 
the meanes God hath vouchfafed for their building for- 
ward, their, experiments of his love, and their care touie 
the meanes and employ their talent. Godgiveth no: the 
fame meafure of grace to all beleevers : all be not of equall 
ftanding in Chrifts fchoole, nor of equall paines to improve 
what they have received, nor live under like powerfull 
meanes of grace, & enjoy likehelps ofencreafein ftrength. 
In nature no man wonders to fee a growne man Wronger 
than a new borne babe ; a plant fet in a mellow and fertile 
garden, thrives fafter than that which groweth in a more 
barren Ibyle ; a Merchant chat is warie and induftrious tO' 
employ his ffoek,to encreafe more than hee that is remiiTe j 
an old beaten Souldier to bee more expert than one who 
hath newly put on his arm.our: In grace the fame holds 
good ; for faith thriveth according to the time, meanes, ex- 
periments? and care we take to improve our talentjand pre- 
ierve our faith. The degrees of faith may fitly bee drawne 
into foure heads. For there is a weake faith, as it were in' 
the tender bud v a faith fomewhat growne up ; ttrong faith ^ 
and&llaflurance. 

Faith is weake fbure wayes ; Firft, in knowledge, when' 
a beleever is-butababe in underttanding, ignorant of ma- 
ny profitable things needfull to bee learned and pra6lifecf* 
Jiim that is weake in faiths receive you, hut not to doubt- 
full dijputatioas- TheDifciplcs had true faith, whenthey 
were vecie weake in knowledge. For though they belee- 
ved that Chrift was the Meffiah, yet they were ignorant 
of his. Death, and Refiirre6tion, and Afccnfion. When 
beetold themof hisfufferings, they underftood not that 



§.7. 

The dtgref»^tj 
faith. 



Pfured'grees of 
f<*itk^ 



I. Weake. 
I. 

Faith ii v/eake in 
foure rejptifs' 
Rom.14. i.and 

Heb.MT,T2. 
I Col.8.10* 



Match. lo.i^. 
Liik.9 4S'< 
Maik.9-9. 



144 



The degrees ofFdth, 



Joh.ao.p. 

Mark.i^xl. 

Joh.i4.j. 



3- 



Matth.S.atf. 
and 14-31 • 



P£al.73-'a8. 



Matth.itf.5^, 



4. 



\ faying; when OKarietold them of his refurre6lion, they 
I beleevedit not ; when heelpakeof his tarrying with them 
a little, and then of going unto his Father, they knew not 
what it meant. 

Secondly} faith is weake in aflent, when a Chriftian gives 
credit to the principles of do6lrine and promifes of life, 
not only a true and certaine, but as much better than life it 
felfe, yet not without much realbning and diiputing in him- 
felfe. Lordil beleeveyhel^ mine unbeleefe. 

Thirdly* in confidence it is feeble, when the Beleever 
rolls himfelfe upon Chrift and the promifes of mercie 
made in him, purpofing to adhere and cleave unto him, 
though hee feele that heehangeth but weakly, dilcernenot 
the certaintie of his eftate , nor the ftableneflfe of Gods 
promifes, cannot aflure himfelfe that hee doth beleeve, is 
foone difcouraged in troubles , and ready to faint if help 
come not prefently. But when the mind is perplexed 
with temptations, feares, and doubts, and the heart ready 
to faint, not able with cleare evidence to receive the pro- 
mifes; yet then this true Beleever is habitually refolved 
(not without great dread and wavering) that it is goo A to 
truBand tvait upon the Lord. And this muft bee remem- 
bred for certaine, that howfbever faith bee often (haken, 
opprefled with feares , or turned afide with oppofitions 
that bee made againftit for a time, as the Diiciples did 
all forfake our Saviour, and flee when hee was apprehen- 
ded ; yet the weakeft faith is advifedly refolved to ftick 
faft unto the promifes of life , as much better than the 
pleafures or profits of this life , and to embrace Cfirift 
notwithftanding anyoppofition by allurement or terrour. 
that the Devill, the World, or the Flefh can make a- 
gainftit. 

Fourthly, in the fruits and effects thereof faith i^ 
weake ; as in the fenfc of Gods love, affurance of hU grace 
and favour, power to fubdue unruly paflions, contempt of 
the world, patience and py in tribularion, and tht 
conf^ant, lively pradice of holineffe. Ordinarily this is 

the 



Faith rvcake in one refpeof may bejlrong in another. 145 



the ftate of beleevers at their firft converfion ; and who 
canexpe<ftit ftiouldbee otherwife? Wee doe not looke 
that a new borne babe {hould bee able to goe alone j O: 
ftrength comewithage, wee tbinke it is well. And thus 
it fareth with them alfo , who are not conicionable to 
gaine knowledge, fubdue their corruptions, cherifh faith, 
nourifli the motions of Gods Spirit, pray earneftJy, watch 
narrowly , get relblution of their doubts » tie up their 
paflions, renue their rcpcntance,and purpofe to better obe- 
dience. 

But Ibme there are , whom God in Ipeciall manner doth 
priviledge at one time, and in one day to receive that grace 
and gift ofadurance, which others are long labouring and 
travelling for, before they attaine it. As our Saviour Chrift 
pronouBceth diZachensy This day is this Man become the 
Sonne of Pi^izhiXTiyandfalvatioft is come into his honfe So 
Lydia her heart vf as ofenedithatfhe attended to the preach- 
ingofPa.u\ : the Jay lour, and the J^jv^j who were pricked 
in confcicnce at the preaching of y^/rr, were quickly com- 
forted after they were thrownedowne. The like may bee 
laid of Matthew , and the theefc who was converted upon 
the; Crofle. 

Againe, faith may be weake or fmaU in one particular, 
when it is great and ftrong in another. The meafure of 
knowledjge may be leant , when affiance is ftrong, accor- 
ding to that a man doth know; asin7^^<f^ Where there 
isfmall aflurance of pardon, there ftrength of faith may 
dilcover it felfe by ftriving againft doubting, bitter com- 
plaining for want of feeling comfort, fervent feeking to 
bee fettled in beleeving , earneft longing after and un(atia- 
ble deiire of grace, high prizing and valuation of Jelus 
Chrift , and mercy promifed in him ; feife-deniall, con- 
tempt of the worldj care to learchout the finne that may 
polTibly hinder comfort^ and expellit ; continuall wttch^ 
fulnefleamlholy jealoufie left they ftiou Id bee deceived , 
and faithfiill labouring to fubdue corruption. Thcie and 
fuch like fruits of found , lively , wcl-jxxxed affiance may 
L be\ 



Ordiruaify ba- 

lemers ate^cake 
at thefirfi. 



Stmt priv Hedged 
above tthert. 



Luke ip.j. 

A&s x6- 14. 

Aftjt(f.34.& 
a. J 8. 
Maccb.9.9. 
Luke 32.43. 



Faith weake in 
one refpe^ may 
be ftrong in 4»«- 
ther. 
Hcb.ir.3t. 






ftneberiiftsefthe 
'inexieft Faiths if 

■ true and lively. 
Rom. II. 40. 



John 14. 17. 
CSC 6.35- 
EphcC 3.17. 
J John 5.20. 
Heb.n.i. 



John 17.3. & 

5.y4. 

Col. J. I2,i3< 

Rom.6.4j» 



I John 5. 4« 



Rom II. a 9. 
b Rom. 1. 17* 



Tet P}9fildi»e 
firive to beftroHg 
andtich infaitb' 



I a6 'The hemfits of the rveakeH faith ^ if true and lively. 

be feene in many that bee troubled with manifold feares 
and doubts of their owne falvation, though they them- 
felves doe not ever perceive j how God hath enriched 
them. 

§. 8. A weake and ftrong- faith differ not in (peciall 
nature and plantation, but in degree: and thefruites of 
weake and flrong faith are the fame , though not in like 
meafure , fulneffe and comfort- More dirtindUy , the be- 
nefits of the weakeft lively faith be thefe : By it theBelee- 
veris firmelyand infeparably knituntoChrift, as a living 
Member unto the Head. A true belecver, though never 
fo weake, doth poflefleChrift with all his benefits, and all 
fufficienciein him( for knowledge of faith is never with- 
out pofTeffion.) Andfoheisjuftified,fan61ified, adopted, 
and made free by Chrift. By faith he apprehendeth things 
invifible, bee doth fee God> and is made wife untofalva- 
tion. EternalUife is already begunne in every beleever, 
weake and ftrdng , even that life which fliall never failc 
The weakeft faith gives will and ability in fome fort to 
walke uprightly , and to \\vz honeftly in the fight of God 
and map r it is alio ftrong through the power of Chrift to 
vanquifli Satan, and overcome the world, withwhatibe- 
ver is therein, that maketh head againft the Ibveraignty of 
grace. 

a The weakeft faith is ever joyned wirh the gift of 
perfeverance , and cannot utterly bee broken oft. ^ hnd 
weake faith, if found, will grow and encreafe ; as achilde 
now feeble in his joyntsj may in time become ftrong by 
nourifhment, and able to runne about. It '\s no wifedome 
therefore for any man to content himfelfe with a little 
faith, though the weakeft faith fhall never faile, nor be o- 
vercome by Sathan ; feeing God hath provided, and doth 
aft'ord meanes whereby wee may be builded forward. It is 
a fhame to bee a man in yeares, and a babe in knowledge ; 
to bee an infant in faith » when God vonchfafeth time and 
meanes of better ftature. Who would bee poore that 
might bee rich? weake, that might be ftrong? who would 

live 



F aith fomewhat growne. Strong Faith. 



147 



live in teare and care, that mighc reft confident and iccure ? 
who would wa'ke pcnfiveiy . that might continually re~ 
Joyce and triumph ? A weake faith will bring to ialvation , 
but a Hrong faith is neceflary for a Chriftian , that he may 
overcome with more eafe, fight more ma nfullyj, endure 
with patience , and obey with cheerfulnefle. The leaft 
dramme of faith is more precious than gold that peri- 
fheth, better than the whole world; who, that knoweth 
the price and value of luch a jewell , would not defirc and 
labour to be furnifhed with it, and grow rich therein? In 
earthly things a full eftate pleafeth beft : in heavenly fliall 
wee bee contented to live from hand to mouth, and fcarce 
that , when we might with better allowance enjoy plenty ? 
All living things have an appetite to feekcanddefirenou- 
rifliment for increafe unto perfect ftature in their kind : 
herbs and plants fucke juyce out of the earth; new borne 
babes defire the mothers breaft. All true graces are &.i\i 
growing from a graine of Muftard feed to a great tree ; and 
lively faith doth covet increafe from, feeble ftate to better 
growth, from growth to ftrength,from ftrength to full affu- 
rance. 

§. 9. Faith fomewhat gtowne is , when the belcever 
h better acquainted with the doctrine of Ialvation, giveth 
more full, abib lute, and unlimited aflent to the Word of 
truth than formerly , cleaveth fafter to the promifes of 
mercy in Jefus Chrift , is better ftablifhed in the pra6^ice 
ofgodlineffe, and hath obtained fome fettled boldnefle, 
and confidence at fome times i though hee be ftill ignorant 
of many privi ledges which he might enjoy , and of which 
hemightbeaiTuredby the grace and bounty of the Lord; 
yea though through weakeneffe he wavereth often , doubt- 
ethagaineandagaine, and becommeth like the fmoaking 
flaxe. 

Strong faith excelleth the former in certaine know- 
ledge , firme and full afTent, lively confidence joyned with 
fincere purpofe and refolution of unpartiall andconftant 
'^fobedience. This beleever is better acquainted with the 
^ L 2 promifes 



Matij.jtjjz. 



J. Someffhat 
grownc. 



, Strong, 



148 



&8.X0. 



4. Full aJJUrauce. 
Coloffi.z. 
Rom.i> 14. 

eoiofl'.i.23. 

Rom. 4 20. 
JPfJi.iy.i.ii 

Job 13. I^ 

Efter 4. 14. 



Gotten by de^ 
grees. 
z Cor. i.io. 



Heb.<?.it. 
Col.a.7. 

the benefits of 
t/«// ajfurance. 



The benefits of full ajfurance. 

promifcs of God 5 temporall and fpirituall , to relie upon 
themi hee can wrcftleearneftly in prayer, is not difcoura- 
ged if for a time bis fuite bee denied, will take no repulfe; 
is ccurageous in dangers, (harpenedby difficulties, wal- 
keth on conftantly in a godly courfc , and holdeth the con- 
fident aflfurance of his lalvation more ftrongly, and hath 
it more uliaaliy than the two former. But yet hee hath not 
learned in every ftateand thing fo to livebyfaich, but that 
hee is often (haken and troubled with his corruptions, di- 
ftrafted with cares, and kept under with other incum- 
brances more than hee need , if hee had attained to that 
meafore of faith , which in this life many have obtained by 
the gift of God- 

Full affurance is, when the beleever hath obtained /»// 
ajftiraftce of under Banding in the my fiery efGodtand of the 
Father J andofChrifii and afliiredly beleeveth in Chrift 
jfbr lalvation ,* and is certainly perfwaded that all other pro- 
mifcs, fpirifudll and temporall,doe belong unto,and fliallbe 
made good ntito him ih due feaibn, though in appearance 
all things goe cleane contrary :and readily followeth the 
Lords commandement , though repugnant to flefli and 
bloudj crofTe to carnall reafon, contrarie to earthly pleafnre 
and contentmeht. This degree of faith is not gotten at 
6nce, nor at fitft ordinarily, but by degrees, after good 
time and continuance in theufeofthemeanes, after many 
experiences ofGods love and favour , after manifold trids 
and combatesjand the long continued pra6tice of holinefle ', 
many never attaine unto it in this life ; Ijut it is the duty of 
every Chriftian to labour after good eftabliOiment and full 
affurance in the faith. 

As faith IS mOte excellent, fo aretheftuits that ifliie 
ftbtti it. The iftrongerour faith, the more firmeand cbfe is 
our union with Chrift. A weake beleever is as truly knit 
tb Chrift as the "ftrbng , but not foneerelyandfaft. The 
increafe offaith makes our Communion with Chrift more 
Ivveet and comfortatrle than before. For the morefted- 
fattlyweebeleeve, the clearer apprehenfion have wee of 

the 



The benefits of full ajfurance. 



the remiflionofallourfins J the more vertue andflrength 
draw wee from Chrift to kill and crucifie our corruptions j 
the greater is our peace and joy in the fenle of Gods (pe- 
ci'ail favour, and the more conftantly injoyed with an in- 
creafe thereof. Fulnefle of faith breeds fulnefle of peace 
and jov which pafleth underilanding. The firmer our faith, 
the more free is our acceflfe with boldnefle and confidence 
to the throne of grace , the more fervently and confidently 
can we pray Abbuj Father, the better (iiccefTedoe we finde 
in prayer, and the more quietly doe we waite till the vifion 
come, for it will come and will not lie. 

Aflurance of faith doth enable with mere eafe to over- 
come the world, to contemne the pleafures of finne , to 
poflefl'e the foule in patience in hard and fore preflures , to 
curbe unruly paflions, to tread Satan under feet , tobreake 
through all worldly difficulties , and to runne with cheere- 
fulneffe the race tnat is fet before us. The weake beleever 
creeps forward in the way to Heaven, but.it is with much 
difficulty ; Hee hath much adoe with himfelfe , he h per- 
plexed with feares , frightned with troubles , difcouraged 
with want of mcanes ; heis wearie, feeble, panteth,maketh 
many a ftand, and flippeth now and then. Tt is farre bet- 
ter with him, who is fett led, ftablifhed and rooted in the 
knowledge and love of the truth, and is afluredofGods 
mercy; hathinterertinallthe promifes of grace, and can 
lay aduall claime unto them. For hee contemneth the 
temptations of multitudes, cuftomes, examples; hedeljsi- 
feth the offers ofprofits,plea{iircs, honours, efteemingit 
grexter riches to ftiffer affitEiiofj with the people ofGod^ 
than to enjoy the p/eafftres of/fa. As for reproach , trouble, 
perfecution , he fhrinkes not at them, for his heart is fixed 
and trufteth in the Lord. In dangers hee is confident, 
though meanes of deliverance appeare not,becauf^ he feech 
Godwhoisinvifible, and refteth upon his faithfull pro- 
mife that cannot deceive. Hisaffe(5tionsarefealbned,his 
heart is in HeaVen, his love to God is flronger than death , 
life ic felfc is not dearc unto him, that he may finiCh his 

L ^ courfe 



149 



Rom.if. ij, 
I John I. 4. 
Kom.5. 1,1,5. 
Heb.ro. 22- 
Mattfi.rj.t8. 



&8 



»J' 



Hcb. raia. 
Ads 20. 14. 
Pfal 27.3. 



I50 



The jlrongeH faith is fubjeSi to fundry infirmmes. 



The ftrongeft faith 
iifubiefftajH/.dry 
infiTmitiet- 
Jobs 3,8. 
Numb.20.io, 

I King i>).4« 



Gcn.ij.2. 

Pfal.j.S.with 

31.22. 

I Sam. 27.1' 



The fironghlee* 
verdomfomt' 
times jh'inke-, 

' ivhen the "^eal^C 

\fiandsfaii. 



courfe with joy. If at any time hee tread awry through 
over-fight or infirmitie; the ftronger his is faithj the Ibo- 
fier doth hee arifeagaine, renue his repentance, and em- 
brace the promifes of mercy afrelli. 

Let us then ftrive to attaine unto the beft meafiire of 
faith, and to excell our felves. In earthly things men are 
wilhngtobettertheir condition : and (hall wee bee care- 
lefle in heavenly things to provide well for our (elves? In 
faire weather the Traveller will carrie his Cloake, be- 
caule the fcalbn may change before hisreturne. Aflrong 
faith is ever of nfe , mofl: needfull in temptations of long 
continuance and grievous to be borne : and though now we 
\ivt in peace, wee know not how (bone we may be called 
forth to tryall, what fervicewecmaybeputunto, or how 
the Lord will exercile us. 

$. 10. But here wee muft remember, the ftrongeft 
faith hath infirmities under which it groaneth , and is 
fubjeft to temptations both on the right hand and on the 
left, even firong temptations, whereby it is fibakenfor 
a time. Jobs faith was fhaken , when hee curled the day 
of his birth ; Mofes his faith quailed at the rocke: E- 
liah, that famous beleever, who had railed the dead, 
would bee dead in a paifion. Long delayes did both trie 
and (liake the faith of Abraham. In one and the /ame 
beleever faith is fbmetimes greater and (Wronger , another 
time more weake and infirme: flrongerinagreatadault, 
weakerinalelTe. The gift of faith is without repentance, 
and being once kindly planted in the heart, there itremai- 
neth for ever : but in regard of greatnelTe or meanelTe it hath 
many alterations, increafings anddecreafings; yea, the 
(trong beleever doth fometimes fhrinke and draw back like 
a coward in fmall temptations, and the weak doth quit him- 
fclfe valiantly in great tryals. 

The (Irong muft not be carelefle , as if hee (liould never 
doubt againe , or be brought into ftraits : The weake mu(t 
not be difmayed, as ifthey (hould utterly be overthrowne : 
Both weake and ftrong muft looke for tryals, and bee care- 
full 



Motives and encouragements to belceve. 



1)1 



fulitopreferve and grow in faith. For the ftate of grace 
in this iifc is fuch as hath itill reliques of finne dwel- 
ling vyith it , and the Devill and the world ftili lay 
fiege againft the caftle of our faith to batter it, and 
prevaile much when they finde us lecure and carelefle, but 
are prevented by diligence and.watchfulnefle, the Lord 
aflifting. 



CHAP. XI. 

Of the right plantation of faith p aud means s 
Vfhereby it is confirmed. 

THe neceflary ufe , and excellent fruits of faith. 



§1. 



Motivet and0t- 
couragemtnts to 
belteve. 
2 Cor.5.ao. 



Macth.ii.2$. 



fliould incite men, if they want , to feekeit 
with all diligence* and if they bee partakers of that hea- 
venly gift, to hold and keepe it, to increafc and grow 
therein. And this the rather , becaufe we have many en- 
couragements to beleeve, God doth befeech men to be re- 
conciled unto him.: Should not this wonderful! clemency 
of God encourage us with boldnelle and confidence to 
come unto him? Chrift himfelfe doth gracioufly invite 
all that be poore, needy, wearyjandheavie laden to corpe 
unto him : and the Lord maketh a general! proclamation 
of liberty to all diftrefled ibules that will come and receive 
it, without exception of any in particular : which fliould 
the rather affedt , if wee confider who it is that proclai- 
meth, inviteth, befeecheth, namely , God, who is able to 
helpe, and ready to forgive and fuccour. If a covetous 
man (hould oflPer us any great kindnelfe , wee might doubt 
of performance , becaufe it is contrary to his nature: but it 
is not fo with our God ; his name is gracious , and his 
nature is to bee faithful! in performance, and true in ofter 
and promifing. In the covenant, that God ofhis rich grace 
and mercy hath made with his Church and people , fealed 
with Sacraments , and confirmed by oath , remiffion of | pAr-jr.'so" 

L 4 fins 



Deut.7.9a 



Jcr.3T.j4. 
Hcb ID.16, 



M' 



152 

Efay 55-7' 
Ezfk 18. 21. 
&33.11. 
Mai. 3. 17. 
Efay I. 18. 

Tit.a.14-' 
I Joh.i.j. 
■Miv.i6.i6. 
Joh 315,1"^. 
&6.3<i.,40. 
Ads 10.43. 
Mauh.i-zr. 
&18.11. 
Luke i?.iO' 



Motives and encouragements to belceve. 



rjoh. j.jSjM* 



aTim.i.ii. 



Heb.7. Jf. 

2 Cor. 5.1;. 



finnes fecret and open, great and fmall, of what quality 
foever, is promifed and aflured to them that repent and 
b eleeve. And when life and falvation is promifed t© them 
that will receive it by faith, no man is excluded from 
that mercie , but hee that fliuts forth himfelfc by Infi- 
delity- 
Wee have a Saviour , who came into the world to {ave 
finners, and i s able to deliver us out ofthe hands of all our 
enemies > his redemption beingbothprecious and plenti- 
ful!. And therefore , though the multitude and grievouf- 
nefle of our finnes iTiould encreafe our repentance, yet they 
fhould not diminifh our faith, and diligence in feeking 
affuranceofiorgivenefle. For though our debt was never 
kt great , our furety Chrift Jefus bath paid it to the utmoft 
farthing. 

The Lord who is befl: acquainted with hisownelove, 
rnercy, andcompafTionjandknoweth what ispleafingand 
acceptable unto him , hath lliraightly charged and com- 
manded us to beleeve in him, and beleeving will beftow 
upon us eternall life according to promife. And can there 
be any fraud in Gods Word? or danger in yeelding obe- 
dience to his Commandement? What need weefeare to 
commit our fbules to him , who is able to keepe them, and 
hath bound himfelfe to fave them , if wee relie upon 
him ? 

- Our Faith is dire<Sbed to God in and through Jcfiis Chrift 
cur neeire kinfman, who hath taken ournature, and is be- 
come fledi of our flefh. Though we feared fome great man, 
y€t were hee married to our houfe,very neere us , thiscir- 
cumftance would animate us not a little; the lame fihould 
wee thinke of our God, married as aforefaidtoourflelli. 
Chrift Out Saviour and high Prieft ever liveth , to ap- 
peore in heaven before his Father , and to make inter cejft- 
on for m. The Father^ rcho hath committed all judgement 
^of^tf^tJ^wf, hath given unto him power to remit and par- 
don finne; and hecasourfuretie, having all our debt laid 
upon him , hath by one oblation ofhimfelfe once offered , 

pur- 



M earns for the rightfUming of faith. 



^n 



purchafed for us eternall redemption ; and by vertue of 
his obedience hath received for us j whatfoever he diftribu- 
tethuntous. 

By beleeving wee glorifie God both in his truth, power , 
wifcdome, love, grace and mercy, whom before wee ^i~ 
flionoured by our finnes. For the grace of God is manife- 
ftcd by faith in Jefus Chrift, in the declaration and ac- 
knowledgment whereof ftandeth the chicfe praife and 
glory of the Lord , as the laft end of all his workes. Mer- 
cy and compalTion in man is but as the drop of a bucket in 
comparifon of that huge Ocean ofgrace that is to be found 
in our God : But God requires that wee fhould forgive 
our brother feventie times feven times, if he d^\^ repent af- 
ter hee had trerpafled againft us j and will not our God , 
who exa<fleth liich compaffion in us , be much more ready 
to extend mercy unto us, if we fue unto him? There is no 
difflcultie fogreat,either inre(pe6l:of fin , or of the meanes, 
&c. but it hath been overcome by every one of the Saints ; 
which is our encouragement to feeke faith,thac we might be 
healed. 

$. 2. Now the knowledge of God and Chrift fijppoled, 
without which there can bee no faith, the meanes for the 
right planting of faith be thele. 

Firftjferious meditation of our miferable eftate by na- 
ture, the multitudeand hainoufnefleof our finnes, and how 
deepe ftaine finne hath made in the fbule. The Phy- 
fitian is welcome to the ficke patient : the guilty perfbn 
cftecmes his pardon* Hunger cauleth men to tafte their 
meat: and mercy is plcafant to him that knowes his need 
of mercy. 

Secondly, learne and confider what promifes be made 
in the Goipel , and to whom Chrift offereth himfelfe ,• 
even to the thirftie, wcarie, laden, andburthened; to 
them that be ftung in confcience , parched with finne, that 
have, neither fap nor fruit ofgrace. To them Chrift of- 
fereth hi mle If e, and becomes a fuiter, that if they will 
come unto him, he will eafe andrefrefti, enrich and com- 
fort 



Rom4.ao. 



Rom. 5.24,28. 



Mat.i8.n,22. 



^iemies (or the 
right pU-ating cf 
fuiih. 

I. 



Matth.9.i2,Tj. 



154 



M earns for the right flaming of faith. 



Ifay 55.1.1,: 



Joh.7. 57. 
Num.21. ?• 
Joh. J. 14- 
Matth.ii.2«. 



fort them. Ho every one that thirfiethi comeyee to the wa- 
ters. Let every one that is ^thir(t, come unto mee y anA 
drinke* If any bee oppreflfed with the weight of finne , 
him doth the Lord increat and perfwade to come for caie : 
If any bee confounded in confcience of bis owne wretched- 
nefle and finne , to him the Lord caileth in the Gofpcl , 
Come 5 and let thy foule delight in fatnefle. Men of 
this world labour to match with fuch in marriage, as bee 
rich and vertuous : but Chrift doth profer love to fuch as 
bee powcj that hee might make them rich; filty, that bee 
might make them beautifull; in diflrefTej that hee might 
comfort them ; bafe , that hee might make them honou- 
rable \ guilty, that he might acquit them ; naked , that hee 
might cloath them. 

Thirdly, ponder and weigh who it is that maketh this 
liberall and free promife , even God himfelfe, who is able, 
and willing, and faithfull toperfbrme what heepromifeth 
of his rich grace and unfpeakable mercy. All thefe are 
cleare and manifeft for the truth of them, but we have 
need oft to fet them before us forourufe, to encourage us 
the more boldly and fincerely to relie upon Chrift. To 
this end fpecially are thefe teftimonies of Gods power , 
mercy 5 and truth lb often repeated in the Scriptures,that 
we might have them ever before us, to uphold us againft 
our doubtings andfeares, whereofour nature is full. The 
things promifed m the Gofpel are unlikely in reafon , op- 
pofite to fenle and feeling , too gre^t and excellent, as Sa- 
tan and our diftruftfull hearts will fuggeft, to bee conferred 
upon fiich vile and filthy creatures as we be, who have fo 
many waies difhonoured God , and have fuch a loade of fin 
lying flillupon us ; For the overcomming of which temp- 
tation , wee muft looke up to him that hath made the pro- 
mife ; his grace , faithfulneffe, and power ; and keep them 
in our eye continually , rowfing up our fbules to beleeve 
againft fenfc and feeling, reafon and likelihood, becaufe 
God is faithfull,and cannot denie himfelfe ; gracious , and 
will not caft us oflFforourunworthinefle; great in might, 

able 



Meanesfor the right obtaining of faith. 

able to doe whatlbcver he will » and willing to performe 
with his hand, whatfoever commeth out of his mouth. Wee 
muft fay to our Toulesj The Lord ofhisgrace invites thee 
poore, needie, milerable, lelfe-condemned wretch to come 
unto Jefus Chrift > and of the fame grace hath promifed to 
accept the eifthou doe come, to healc thy foares, to for- 
give thy finnes ; come therefore,behold, heecalleth thee : 
reafon may be deluded? fenie is deceitful!, but the Word 
ofthe Lord endureth for ever : Thou haft his faithfull ptid- 
mife for thy fecurity, dilpute no more, but draw neere with 
confidence. 

Fourthly j it is very needfull againe and agafne to con- 
fider what excellent things are promifed , and (o raife the 
heart to an high prizing and valuation of them. The wife 
Merchant doth not buy the pearle 3 till he know it to bee 
of excellent price, or better than any price. Great things 
are eagerly fought upon probable hopes : The meere pd^ 
fibility of obtaining Ibme great and extraordinary good, 
is of marvellous force in fwaying mens actions. And if men 
confiderferiouflywhatrarcj furpafling, precious things be 
prom.ifed to them that come unto Jefus Chrift, and reft 
upon him , what (hall withhold them from beleeving ? 
Were wee certainly perlwaded, that everlafting Ii^q^ full 
laden with all the fruits oftruelife,joy, and peace, and all 
choiceft pleafures, without any annoyance, ftiould bee con- 
ferred upon them that beleeve in Jefus Chrift, would wee 
not hang clofe,and fticke faft, and not fuffer the pleafures or 
profits of this tranfitory life to divide us from him? The 
reaibn why we ftrive lb flackly tobeleeve, and be fo dull in 
Gods lervice,and faint in trouble, is, becaufe our hearts be 
not holden with the ferious confideration of that king- 
dome, joy , and glory, which God hath prepared for. them 
that beleeve, and cleave unto him. 

Fiftly, kis alio needfull to denie our felves, our defires, 
lufts, and afte61:ions ; to make overallourintereftinour 
lives, or whatfoever is deare unto us; and to inure our 
hearts calmely to endure the hate and oppofition, though 

of 



155 



Matth.1j.44. 



— .'' 



156 



Match 1^.24. 



Luke 14.45. 



Luke 14. 3J. 



Mat.i5-44,4J' 



Meanesfor the right flaming of faith, 

of deareft friends>and the reproaches and revilfngs of men, 
though abjeft and v'lk. This our Saviour layes down as a 
fundamental! principle. If any man will come after me, let 
him denie himfelfey and take up hu crojfe, and follow me. He 
that loveth Father or Mother more than me ^ is not wor- 
thy of me : and he that lovsth Son or Daughter more than 
mey is not worthy of me. ty^ndhee that taketh not his croffe, 
andfolloweth after me^ is not worthy of me. The neceffity of 
this refblution hee more fully fets out unto us in two para- 
bles ; of a builder that mutt bee able to count his coft and 
charges, and meanes to defray them, before he take that 
wotkeinhand ; otherwifeto begin to build, being unable 
to make an end , were to lay the foundation of his difgrace 
in the lofTe of his cOft and paines : And a Prince, who be- 
fore he undertake warre , muft havefiiretriallofhisowne 
ability and skill to difcover his enemies ftrength \ other- 
wife to bid him battell , were rafhly to provoke an ene- 
mie to his owne loffe and danger. The conclufion of 
thefe inductions is this , So like-wife , whofoe'ver hee bee of 
yopti that forfaketh not all that he hath, hee cannot bee my 
Difciple. 

The Merchant that would purchafe the pearle of price, 
muft fell all that he hath to buy it; He muft fell his finneg, 
(which is properly all we have of our owne ) and renounce 
his intereft in the world , and whatfoever naturall content- 
ment hee might promife himfelfe in the things of this 
world. The meaning is not, that rich men muft fbrgoe 
their wealth, and betake themfelves to voluntary poverty ; 
for riches well ufedbee great inftruments of doing good : 
But they muft caft the world out of their affesflions, and 
make over their intereft in whatfoever h moftdeareunto 
them : they muft prefer the kingdome of Heaven before the 
whole world , and therefore renounce both themfelves , 
and all the defires of the flefti, that nothing may hinder the 
enjoying of fo rich atreafure. 

Chrift doth make love unto us, and by many faire, 
fweet and precious promifes doth allure and intice us to 

em- 



Meanesfor the right planting of faith. 



157 



IuL;e8.x4. 



embrace him; but will bee received by way ofMatrimo- 
niall covenant; we mnft forfake all bale and carnall de- 
lights , caftout of the heart whatfoever we formerly ac- 
counted precious in the world , cleave unto him onely , 
and be contented with thofe Ipirituall good things , which 
hepromifethuntous. Chrift hath never due efteemewith 
us, unfeffe for his fake wee withdraw our hearts from all 
the riches, delights, honours, and profits of the world , 
and dcnieourfelvesjthatinall things wee might be con- 
formable unto his will and pleafure. What are we better 
than harlots, fo long as the world, or the delights thereof, 
lufts , or paflions poCfefle the heart , and divide it from 
Chrift? 

Roots, though of trceSjcan goe no deeper than the rocke 
orftone : nor can the Word of life finke deeper into the 
heart , than unto the roots of his naturall defires or affecti- 
ons: which unrenounced, hinder the right taking and 
kindly fpreading of it. The cares of this world and volup- 
tuous living choake the feed of the wofKl , after it hath ta- ' / - ) 
ken fome rooting, that it brings forth no fruit unto ripe- 
neffe. Therefore that the word of the kingdome may 
take kindly, and fm^ifie in us, we muftcaftup our ac- 
counts before hand, what we can be content toforgoe for 
Chrifts fake, and renounce the pleafures and delights of 
the World, giving up our felvesintirely to Jefus Chrift, 
in all things to bee dire^ed and guided by him, inuring 
our felves quietly to beare reproach , difgrace and con- 
tempt for his fake, and watching heedfully in profperitie, 
that the world creepe not into our affei^ion, and privily 
fteale away our hearts firom him. 

And this wee (liall doe the more freely , if wee atten- 
tively confider what excellent and incomparable trea- 
fures of delight, joy, and comfort are to be found '\r\ Je- 
fus Chrift, over and above all the world can promife or 
affotd. Should a good hnsband bee offered Ibme goodly 
royaltie , upon condition hee would forlake his bafe tene- 
ment or hard rented leafej when once hee perceived the 

profit 






158 



Faith once obtained isferioufly to he regarded. 



Phil. 3.?. 



§.5. . 

Faith onee obtai- 
nediiferiou^yto 
be regarded. 
Luke 22.31. 



profit of the exchange , you need not ufe arguments to 
perfwade him. Should fome great Noble-man make fuite 
of love toameane perfonage, upon condition thee would 
fbrfake her bafe drudgerie for the honours and delights of 
a palace, the' motion would bee accepted. And if wee feri- 
ouflyweigh, that the Lord Jefus callethus toforfakerhe 
fleih-pots o^ Egypt, and alienate our intereft in the world, 
and the fleflij with all their appurtenances , that we might ' 
bee enriched with heavenly, ever- end uringpleafiires, in 
comparifonwhereofall earthly contentments are but dung 
and dog(^meat ; that hee invites us to caft away our har- 
lotry delightSj that hee might marrie us unto bimfelfe, and 
intitle us unto his everlalHng kingdomej it will not bee 
grievous to make this exchange. 

But here it mufl: be remembred, that it is not the pofTel^ 
fion of earthly things, or delight in them j that is forbid- 
den , but that pofTeffion and delight in them , which with- 
holdethusfromrefigningour felves untoChrift, and fee- 
king after the promifed land with all the heart and all the 
foule. It is not the aduall abandoning of riches, honour , 
or other contentments of this life , which our Saiiiour re- 
quires :but the difpofleffing of the heart of fuch bafe de- 
lights 3 that the whole heart may bee let upon heavenly 
things , and not with-drawne by fecret refervation of 
{peciall dcfires for other purpofes. And being thus 
difpofed , wee receive Chrift with wel-rooted affiance, 
and cleave to the mercy of God , as much better than life 
it felfe. 

§. 5. Faith kindly planted njuft be regarded ferioufly , 
and carefully confirmed. For Satan ufeth all meanes to 
weaken faith, yea, quite to fubvert and overthrow it. If 
an houfe begin to fhrinke or reele of one fide, will wee 
not put under fome fhore to prop it up? Or if any man 
queftion the Title of Land wee have purchafed , will wee 
not fearch Records , and ufe meanes to ftrengthen it ? The 
malice of Satan in feeking by all meanes to batter downe 
onr faith, is fufficient to {hew the excellencie thereof, and 

to 



Faith once obtained is ferioufly to be regarded. 



I5P 



to awaken us to a continuail carefull regard to prefcrve 
and encreafe it. 

lip this life wee are fubjeft to many trials, that require 
flrengthoffaitbtoundergoethem. The world, by reaibn 
of our continuail imploymentin it»isapctocreepeintathe 
heart> and infenfibly to ttcale the affections from the ea- 
ger purfuite of heavenly things; which calleth upon us for 
more than ordinary care to increale our defires of grace, 
and moderate them in tranfitory things. Hee who will 
have a plant to thrive in a ground drie, barren^and unkindly 
for it- muft ftrive much, becaufe his foyle will not doe fur- 
ther than it is forced; fo hee that will make fire burne in 
greene moift wood , muft follow it with blowing ; thus 
to get faith to thrive incur natures, which are as apt to 
the weedes of diffidence and vict , as averfe from faith and 
every true vertue, wee muft ftrive \7ich them , and offer 
violence unto them. He who doth row againft the ftreame, 
muft plie his Oare, or hee will goe downe apace : {oitis 
here , we goe againft the ftreame of corrupt nature, fbfarre 
as we goe in faith or grace. 

Our daily and continuail weaknefTe of faith, which wee 
finde inaffenting untoand receiving moftobjedls of faith 
and promifes of God j when it is encountred with tempta- 
tions : Our ordinary failings in the prafticeofholy duties, 
and due ordering of our affei"tions , which cannot be with- 
out a precedent defedl: of that faith , which only can firmly 
unite us unto Chrift ; doth fufficiently manifeft, how feeble 
ourbeleefeis in thefpeciall mercies of God towards us in 
Jeius Chrift, which being the higheft object isthehardeft 
tobeeapprehendecJ, andean never be fepa rated from firme 
a flent unto every precept ofGodj as much better than any 
incompatible good. And if men take food and phyficke to 
ftrengthen their bodies, becaufe they are frailermuft wee 
not labour to confirme our weake and feeble faith ? 

The labour befto wed about this moftgainfull and beau- 
tifull grace, is fo farre from tedious toile , that it is the fb- 
lace of a Chriftian heart , and the plealiire thereof more 

fweet 



Ads 14. 
I Theflj, 



32« 



i6o 



Mums whereby Faith is ftrengthened. 



MtdHet ivhereiy 
faith iiftrengthe. 
ned and een fir- 
med. 






fweet than any plealure that can bee taken in all the pa- 
ftimes of the World. For by thatmeanes wee grow more 
and more familiarly and betteracquainted with the minde 
and purpole of God towards us, we enjoy fweet communion 
and fellowiTiip with him , wee are made ready for our 
latter end at one time as well as another , and are ar- 
med to goe well and cheerfully through with the affaires 
of the day, beleeving that God will guide and bleflcW. 
And of this alio wee may be well afTiired , that according to 
ourftrength of faith, the lively fruits of holy obedience 
fliall bee found in us ; and as our faith groweth , ibdoth 
found peace, joy, and fafetie, ftrength againft corruption , 
ability to refift temptations, poverty ofipirit, meeknefTe, 
purity, hunger and thirft after righteoufnelTe, mercifulneflfe 
and pleafurein the meanes whereby faith is prelerved , and 
confirmed,increafe, and that from time to time, more and 
more. 

But- as for fiich as will not fettle thcmfelves to nourifli 
their faith with care and diligence , they deprive them- 
felves of much inward peace, which they might enjoy , and 
make their lives uncomfortable to themi^lves, unprofita- 
ble to others. They laythemfelves open to many oflFen-i 
CCS , which by this exercifc they might prevent ; and they 
goe on , either in unfavourie lightneflTe and carnall joy, 
which doth deceive them , or elfe in unprofitable care 
and worldly ibrrow , which will diiquiet them. And when 
they negledl: the fafhioning of Chrift in their hearts , and 
fb truly to put him on in their daily converiation , they be- 
come unprofitable in their lives , oflFenfive in their car- 
riage ; and the Devill weakeneth and holdeth backe fun- 
dric (which were comming on) by their example, think- 
ing themfelves well in the cafe they are in, rather than 
tiiey fhould bee in following them , unleffe they faw fbme 
beauty and cxcellencie in their lives, more than in them- 
{gIvqs. 

§4.The means whereby faith is confirmed and f^rengthe- 
»cd are thefe, and fuch liks : 

Fid>, 



Mcanes whereby Faith tsfirengthened. 



idi 



Firft, daily to account k our beft portion, richeft Jew- 
ell > moft pretious trcafure, and chieieft happineffein this 
life : which if wee doe , our hearts will be ever upon ix., our 
feare will be ufually lelt wee fhould lofe it , and wee (liall 
thinkeit moft neceflary to regard and looke unto it, what- 
foever wee have befides it worth the looking after. And 
otherwile every ilnall occafion will hinder us, every fond 
delight carry us away » and every trifle take up the heart, 
much more our earneft and weighty aftaires and bufi- 
nefle , to which moft men thinke that all exercifes of Re- 
ligion ought to give place. Things of worth are dif-eftee- 
med if their value bee not knowne , and trifles are looked 
after when they bee over-valued. A true efteeme of the 
price, excellencie,and ufe of faith , the profit and comfort 
of it, willraifean earneft continuall caretoprelerveand 
keep it. 

Secondly , wee muft labour daily , not onely to loath 
thofe things which are evill in themfelves', but alio to bee 
very fbber and moderate in our lawfull labours and de- 
lights, deflres, and affecftions to things tranfitorie, remem- 
bring what our Saviour Chrift faith , One thing is necejfa- 
rie; otherwife Sathan, who can change bimfelfe into an 
Angel of Light , will fill our hearts and heads with 
fwarmes of evill lufts , noyfome delights , cares and di- 
ftra6tions, which will draw our mindes from that which 
they ought moft to minde and thinke upon. Wee muft bee 
heedfull m this , not onely that the world draw us not to 
encreaie our wealth by wicked or unjuft meanes -, but that 
it creepe not infenfibly into our afteilions , and lb by de- 
grees not obferved , breed great diftempers in the ioule. 
Feare ofwant,joy and dehght in what weejuftlyand ho- 
neftlypoflefle, climbinginto the heart, andby little and 
little getting head, doe Hicke away that vertue , whereby 
the wordibwne fhould receive ftrength and increafe , and 
alienate part of the foule from God. Herein therefore we 
muft bee circumlpe6l, gaging our hearts and trying them to 
thebottome, weaning our {elves from thefe delights, rai- 

M fing 



Li;L;.X0.42. 



M^L. 



l62 



Memes vohereby Faith Ujlrengthened, 



I Cor. I J. 58' 



Exod. 34,^. 
3oh.7.J7. 

I John 5.14. 
Prov.af.13. 
Epher.3'4. 



fing onr ibules to more fpirkuall and heavenly joyes, and 
labouring that our defire of grace and care to cxercife our 
felves in all good workes doe grow, as the world comes in 
upon us. 

Thirdly >^ Walking according to the rules of faith in 
humblenefle of minde , meeknefle , purity, mercy^ long- 
fbfferingjand in all good workes , improving what we have 
received to the glory ofGod, is a notable meanes to con- 
firme and ftrengchen faith. Faith brings forth good workes, 
and goods workes increafe faith. Faith hath his fruit crea- 
ted in it :but the better fruit it bringeth forth, the fafter 
itgroweth. Faith is a firuitfull Mother that gives life to 
holineffe : and good works 5 as akind Daughter , helpe to 
fupport and fuftaine the Mother. Be yeeftedfaft^nmove- 
abhjalwaies ahoHnding in the works of the L ord. 

Fourthly , A daily veiwing of our finnes , which by ex- 
amination we have found out , is availeable hereunto : that 
being humbled truly, and brought to account bafely of our 
felvesjweemaybekept fromfulnefle and lothing of that 
death of Chrift, the fweetneflewhereofwc cannot tafte or 
rclliftias we flionld, except we feele the tartnefle and bit- 
ternefle of our finnes. 

Afift meanes is daily and oft to (endup ftrong prayers 
to God for it , and purpofely to feparate our felves from all 
other things in the mofl convenient manner that wee can , 
to thinke deepely of his unfpeakable goodneflfe , mercy, 
truth, fatherly atfc6lion,and tender compaffion in Jefiis 
Chrifl; remembring withall what manifold, fweet and 
gracious promifes hee hath made unto us in the Goipel of 
his Sonne,whereby wee come to have more neere acquain- 
tance with Gods nature , his minde, and purpofc towards 
us. And if wee beleevc an honeft man fb much the more, 
becaufc he often goeth over it, when he affirmeth this or 
that unto us : the ferious meditation of Gods promifes 
reiterated againe and againe, muft bee availeable to 
ftrengthen faith, and fafhion the Image of God in us more 
and more. 
^ Sixtly, 



?^ 



Hemes rvherehy Faith tsfirengthened. 

Sixtly , Tothele muftbccjoyncd ordinary and reverent 
hearing of the glad tydings offalvation, which is the key 
whereby God doth open and fbften our iron hearts; and 
an holy ufe of the Sacraments> whereby this heavenly- 
truth, which we have already received, is yet further fea- 
led up toourconfciences. Thefe ordinances we muft fre- 
quent with an appetite. Sound and healthfiill bodies re- 
ceive nouriChment from their food, and fiickvigouf dutof 
it for growth and ftrength : Lively faith feedeth on the 
Word of life , and increafeth . Though the Word be im- 
mortallleedj which corruptible food is not, yet in this 
they arc like, that looke as bodily food doth not put to 
the body all that fubftantiall (trength and latitude which 
belongethtoiti fo the food of the Word doth not atone 
time augment the foule with all length and depth of 
knowledge, faith, hope, love, fuftice, temperance, 
which it 15 to bee brought onto. In which regard , as li- 
ving bodies need daily food, that they might grow unto' 
peneflion of nature ; fo foules having grace, have need to 
goe over with the ufe of the meanes, as well as others s 
that the divine nature may bee more and more enlarged , 
getting up as the light of the Sun doth in the aire which it 
inlightneth. 

Seventhly, It is good to call to minde the experience 
of the faith and joy which wee have had at any time be- 
fore; remcmbring that former comforts afe as a bill obli- 
gatorie under Gods hand to afTure that he will not for- 
fake us. For whom God loveth, hee loveth to the end; 
becaule heis unchangeable, the fame for ever : which confi- 
deration may ferve to fettle us in afTurance of Gods love« 
towards us, more than a child can be of his fathers good- 
will, or a wife ofhcr bodily Husbands favour, for they are 
mutable. 

Eightly, Obferve the opportunities , when it pleafetb 
God in {peciall manner to draw nigh unto us, and make 
nfeofthcm. God viifitcth his children Ibmetimcs in ten- 
der couipaffion , and knocketh at the doore of their hearts, 
M 2 inviting 



163 I 



6. 

Rom. 10. 17. 
Ilotn.4.11* 



7- 

t Cor. 1. 10. 



Joh.rj.r. 



s. 



i 



1^4 



rphef.-ie. 
I Pet.5.8. 



of the temftations wherebj Satan [eeketh to 



inviting them to divine and heavenly communication with 
him. Sometimes hee inchneth their foules to frefh {brrow 
forfinne, fbmetimes herefrefbeth them with more lively 
apprehenfion of the joy es of Heaven, fometimes they feeli 
the motions of the Spirit qnicke and lively. Upon what 
occafions (bever , or in what manner it fhall pleafe God to 
oflPer himfelfe uflto us , it ftands us upon to make ufeof 
that forour quickning , to nourifh the motions of his Spi- 
rit, an d by fervent Prayer to entreat the continuance of his 
prelence. -• 

N nth ly , Faith increafeth by exercife, and growiethlnr 
conr inuall ufe. If wee learne to live by faith in matters of 
this life J both when wee have , and when wee want the 
meanes , and reft upon God for luccefle in our lawfull cal- 
lings, without diftra6>ing care , wee (hall with more facility 
and eafe depend upon the free promifcs of grace for mercy 
^ and forgivenefle. 



CHAP. XII. 

OfthetemftatioHSiivhere%y Satan f eeketh to 
hatter dewne our faith y and hoTP 
he may be refified. 

§. i.'*T~HE Devill knoweth right well, that faith is 
J the band whereby wee are knit unto Chrift; 
the fhield whereby wee quench the fierie darts of the De- 
vill, the ground-worke of a godly life, andthefafeCa- 
ftle of a Chriftian ibule : If faith bee weakened, our 



zeale cooleth 



our courage abateth 



our life is te- 



dious, our Prayers faint, the exercifes of Religion 
uncomfortable, andallthe graces ofGods Spirit pine and 
languifh. Alio by doubting and diftruft wee difhonour 
God , lay open our hearts to temptations , difcourage 
others , and tye our owne hands that wee cannot fight a- 
gainft our di^zAl'j enemies. For thefe caufes Satan ende- 

vours 



Temptations 4- 
gainji Faith- 

i.WartbhfneJfe. 



Remedie, 
Thefenfi of our utf 
fforthinejff muft 
not dlfcourage us 
ftom heleevin^. 



hatter dcw?7e our Faith^ and how he may be rejijled. 16'y 

vours by ail meanes 10 hinder , as the Jkindly taking (b the 
growth off'aith , that fuch as he cannot hold in the chaincs 
of fin hce might make their lives dead , vveariibmej unpro- 
fitable , by doubting and dilcomforc. 

Firft, Satan fnggeftcth , that it is horrible prefumption 
for fuch vile finners and worthlcfle wretches to perlvvade 
themfelves of Gods fpeciall love and favour. And to this 
end he fpareth not to fee forth the majeftie, juftice, and pu- 
ritie ofthe Lord, thatit might flrike the greater terrour in- 
to the wounded c<^nrcience. 

For the repelling of this temptation, it is tobe knowne 
and remembred^that Gods mercy, favour, promifes, and 
benefits are all free , which hee vouchfafeth , offereth,be- 
ftoweth , without any refped of worthineffe or deferts , 
of his meere grace and undeferved love in Jefus Chrift. 
And therefore as when wee are moft worthy in our owne 
conceit , there is no reafon wee fhould prefume the more ; 
lb when wee find our felves unworthy, there is no caufe 
why wee fliould hope the lefie. For the ground of our 
confidence is the promife of free and undeferved mercie 
made in Chrift Jefus to miferable forlorne finners, who 
fee and acknowledge themfelves tobee morevile than the 
mire in theflreet. And this fets forth the praifeofGods 
mercy fo much the more , that it is afforded to fuch b^fe 
abje6ts, who deferve nothing, but to beecaft forth and 
trodden under foot. Should the priibner doubt of his 
Princes mercie when hee heareth his pardon read, and 
feeth it fcaled , becaufe hce hath merited no liich kind- 
nefie? 

Againe , it h good to call to minde and ferioufly to con- 
fider what ftrong encouragements we have to receive the 
promifes j and how wee are not moredefirous to belecvc , 
than God is wee fliould fo doe. For God doth through 
love intreat us, of fricndfliip counicUus, and of bis au- 
thority , being able to performe, commandethus ; as if he 
would hereby Ibew , that none hath authority to hinder 
or forbid the fame. And therefore wee muft bee warned, 

M 5 to 



2 Cor- y. 15,10. 
I rim. r- 1 J. 



i66 



a. They l{>Joiv not 
iffhether thfj be 
eleSfed. 

Remedy. 

I Tim.d.ia. 
Heb.1c.35. 
Match. 1 3. jr. 

Job. 10 »7- 
Satan u not to bt 
bar kitted unt»^noT 
reafoned rpith^ 
when he tempteth 
to Infidelity. 
Gen. 3. 1,2, 3. 



Ephef^i.13. 



I, They are fuu of 
doubttngs. 

",7.10,11. 



oft k temptations whereby Satan fieketh to 

to beware of all occafions, that may darken or put out the 
light of our confidence; as reafbning or queftioning a- 
gainft our felves for yeelding to this truth lately recei- 
vedj&c. 

§.2. Satan will here object to the wea^kc and timorous 
Chriftian , that he knowes not whether hee be of the num- 
ber of Gods ele6t,and therefore hath-nothing to doe with 
the promifes. If the Devill fee upon us in this fort , wee 
muft hold fuch fuggeftions to arife from the Spirit of er- 
rour,becau(ethey are contrary to the voice of God, who 
faith to the afflidted confcience that is wearie of finne, Be^ 
leeve, lay hold on eternall life^ cafi not awajthy confidence ; 
Beeflablijhed, confirmed, and abound in faith. Therefore 
wee muft lend no earc tofuchwhifperingsoftheoldfer- 
pcnt, but cleave faft to the word of the Lord, and cut off ^11 
contrarie inchantments. It was the firft degree to the otter 
undoing of her felfe and pofteritie in our Grandmother 
Eve , that (hee opened her earc to a falfe and lying (pirit 
in the mouth of a Serpent, which under a faire colour per- 
fwaded, or rather covertly inticed and drew her to eat of 
the forbidden fruit. 

The decree of God , which is fecret in the bolbmc of 
the moft High , is not the rule according to which wee 
muft walke ; but the word of life,revealed in holy Scrip- 
tures, we muft take for our dire(^ion. Jf God make offer of 
mercy and torgivenefl'e unto us in the miniftery of the Gof- 
pel, which is the Word of truth, the Word of falvation, wee 
are boundto receive it, without looking into the booke of 
his ele6fion : and if we receive them truelyj wee fhall be fa- 
ved, as the Lord hath fpoken. 

§. 5. If Satan bee driven from this hold, hee folicires 
to feare, becanfe many doubts and motions of diftrnft 
arife in the heart ; as if there could be no faith , where 
there are ^o many doubts. And it cannot bee denied , bur 
motions to diftruft argue faith tobeeweake, v^hich is a 
want that many of Gods people doe bewaile in them- 
felves, and for which they doe well-nigh defpaire ir 

them- 



u 



iatter downe our Faith ^ and how he may be refified. 167 



that ii Ifiak^. 

Joh.4 39.+i»53' 

Luk.? +5. 
Marks'. 5a« 
Luk. a^tii* 
Job. 13. .3 8. 
&14.5. 



Ehcmfelves. Notwithftanding let not any be out of heart 1 ^,^,^^, 
for thefmall and fcanty mealure of his faith, if hee have f*hh majbetrue 
true faith, well rooted. For faith maybe true and lively, ' * 
that is but weake and imalU For difference in degrees 
doth not varie the nature of well rooted affiance. And 
God requireth the truth of Faith , hoc it is not ncceffarie 
that it bee perfca in degree. If a Prince fliould proffer a 
pardon to a malefadlor. upon this condition onely, that he 
receive ir, would he queftionhis Soveraignes bounty and 
grace, becatrfe hee put forth a palfey-fliaking hand? To 
doubtof Gods mercy becaufe our faith is feeble, is rather 
to relye upon our faith than upon the Lord. It is not the 
excellency and great meafure of faith that doth make us 
righteous before God , but Chrift whom faith doth re- 
ceive and apprehend : which a weake faith can doe as well 
as the Ikonoefl. They that did looke on the brazen ferpent 
but with one eye , yea but with halfe an eye , were as well 
and fully cured of the deadly flings of the fiery ferpents, 
as thofe which beheld it with both. As a fmall and weake 
hand is able to receive an almes as well as a flronger and 
greater, fo our faith though feeble, doth receive Chrift 
as truely and effe6lually for thefalvationof thebeleever as 
thegreateft and mofl: ftrong. In the manner of receiving 
there is fomc difference ( for the more firme our confi- 
dence, the greater is ourcomfwt) but in the truth none 
at all . Againe , it is not faith, but Chrift received by faith 
that nourifheth to life eternall. Meate reached to the 
mouth by a trembling hand , fuftaineth the body no lefTc 
than if it were apply ed by an arme of ftrength ; the good- 
ncfTeof the nourifhment receiving no change ©r alterati- 
on from the externall inftrnment of application : fohere 
Chrift is the fame to them that receive him truely, though 
it be done in one with more, in another with IcfTe ftrength 
of affiance. 

Wee read in Scripture, that Chrift reproved fomefor 
their fmall faith , that they might ftirre up themfelves 
more confidently to relye upon him : but wee have not 

M 4 heard. 



i68 



ofthetemftations wherebj Saianjeekethto 



Matth.i2.io. 
Mark)^.24. 



§4. 

4..They cartnot 
l^eepe their faith 
ftron^ andfiedfafi, 

%emedie. 
James t- 17- 
Pl'al. 77 10,11. 



Want offaeliHgat' 
gutthnot vant «/ 
faith. 



heard , that hee ever rejedled any that came to him in 
vveakneiTe , defiring to be conHrmed. The leaft graine of 
faith, if true } is acceptable unto the Lord; Hee will not 
quench thefmoaking flaxe. His diflike of our weaknefle 
is an argument of his love and care for our good , who 
would have us to be fettled in theaflurance ofhisfavour, 
and not to waver in uncertainties to our great diicomfort. 
The ftrait charge heehath laid upon us to beieeve , and the 
fevere threatnings annexed to that his Commandement if 
we obey it not , is a manifeft evidence of his bounty and 
good will towards us, who is pleafed thus to binde us un- 
to himielfe, to confirme unto us his love, and fo un- 
doubtedly to aflure us of his mercy, that it is to him a mat- 
ter of unkindnefle , if wee fhall once make doubt or fcruple 
of it. Doth any man miflruft the afFe6lion of his friend, 
becaufe he hath oft charged him not to be ftrange, to make 
bold with him in any matter of importance and need, and 
hath rebuked him becaufe hee ftands a loofe as though hee 
{bould not be welcome? ; 

§. 4 . Some are difmaied , for that they cannot keepe 
their faith ( for any continuance) ftrongandftedfaft, but 
they fcde it wavering, inconftant , flitting, lb that they 
fall into great forrow, feare and doubtings. For their com- 
fort they muft know that there is no fliadow of change 
with God, and thatitistheirweakneflefotothinke. Men 
arevariable in their affe^^ions, whom they dote upon this 
day, they deteft tomorrow: But fuch lighrnefle and va- 
nity, is farre from our God : His love, mercv, and gifts 
tf grace are all unchangeable. Alio they muft beperfwa- 
ded , that labouring after and groaning to reft their wea- 
ried (bules upon the pron^ifcs of mercy , being never fatis- 
fied till their doubtfulneffe be removed, will bring a good 
end ; Co that they fhall neither mifcarrie , nor b'efo;fxken 
of the Lord in the loweft depth of their diftrefie. '^nd 
though for a time they feele not that they have faith or 
life, they may truly bee alive unto God, as it is evident by 
fundry tef^imonies and properties of the new birth , which 

may 



batter downe our Faith ^ and how he may be rejijied. 1 6p 



may bee dilcerned in them who doe moft complaineof 
their eftaces. A man I'uddenly ftriken to the ground, and 
amazed with Ibme violent blow , wanteth not liio. altoge- 
ther, though bee perceive it not : Breathing and moving 
are infallible tokens of life in the body, which by many 
likelihoods appeareth to bee dead : fo panting and brea- 
thing after the conlblations of the Lord , and the light of 
his countenance, be undoubted fignes of the new birth , 
though they bee not eafily dilcerned ( eipecially in the 
houre of temptation ) by them in whom they arc. Where- 
fore the weake in faith muft bee wile in heart , and not 
meafure themfelves by their prefenr faintings and infir- 
mities : but wait upon God, and ufe the meanes which hee 
hath prefcribed in his Word. As children firfl: learne togoe 
by a ftoole or fourme ', ficke folke recover their talie or 
ftrength by little and 1 trie; plants fiiootnot up fiidden- 
\y and at once , but by degrees ; corne fuffers many a 
(Viarpe ftorme before it come to ripenefTe : fb faith hath irs 
beginning, gfowth, and confirmation s calmes and ftormes 
to ripen it. | 

Ifit bee demanded, why doth God deale thus with his 
children, and fuffer them to fall into fuch depth of doub- 
ting, forrow and feare? The anfwer is, that in regard of 
the beleever himfelfe this doubting is a weaknefle , which 
muft bee with-ftood and overcome : For the attaining 
whereto, the occafion of this doubting in him who hath 
unce beleeved muft bee fearched out, and lb removed: 
which ordinarily is our owne infirmity, negle6l of duty , 
and fleightnefle in the manner of performing the fame, or 
Ibme particular fin, or pronenefle to fin, and nouriHiing the 
(ame, or long lying therein; whereupon the tender con-* 
icience feareth that his former comfort wasbutdeceitfull 
andvaine,andibdoubreth of his good eftafe But this. fa 1-. 
leth out by the wife providence of God fbdifpofing, left 
by the fudden change from fo damnable and uncomfort- 
able an eftatetofo happieand joyfi]ll,he ftiouldbe litred up 
and conceited j and fb become fecure and pr^fumptuouSj 



V/l]y thefaithfuU 
arefub}elt to ff.c'^ 
doubts and iifant 
of feeling. 



Agame 



lyo 



5 Ihey rfcetved 
ihetiuthntfirft 
•fnithout duett tti 
Rttnedj, 



Faith may he true, 
though TnKch tf^re 
am'^t ^ uhenfiift 
ffc rcsived the 

truth. 



<>. Thtj nevtr had 
that deepe for.tetf 
vhieh many havi 
fiU. 

T^mesfy, 
Ceds dtiles net 
with all <ili\e» 



of the temftations tvherebj Satan feeketh to 

jvgaine sthis maketh him the more to prize the fcnfeof 
Gods mcrcy^nd with the greater care to prelerve hi&faith, 
and to fhun all finne and wickednefle , which might hinder 
the apprehenfion of his concinuall love. 

$. 5. Satan tempteth feme to doubt , becaule at firft 
they^ received the truth without due tryall and exami 
nation; whofeduty it is carefully to r^forme whatlbever 
they elpie to have beene amifle : but for one rotten poft 
it is no wiledome to pull downe the whole building. 
For God is mercifull , and ready to forgive our imper- 
fe6lions, when upon the knowledge and fight wee con- 
fefle and bewaile them. The Dilciples at firft followed 
Chrift in hope of temporall preferment , and yet their 
faith was found and true ; for when they came to the know- 
ledge of their errour they reformed it, and didftillinfe- 
parably cleave unto him. It is the great wifedome and 
mercy of the Lord* for a time to hide from his children 
the f gbt of their infirmities and wants , and notwith- 
ftanding their manifold weaknefles to afford unto them 
the fenfe of his love ; left they fhould bee utterly 
difcouraged and faint under the burden for want of ex- 
/ perience , finding the entrance into life hard and diffi- 
cult. Naturall difcretion teacheth us to deale with 
children according to their ability, and not to difhear- 
ten them by exacf ing what is above their ftrength : The 
likecompaflfion doth the Lord fliewtohisj by the com- 
forts of his Spirit preparing them to endure the affaults of 
Satan. 

$.5. Many Chrifliansbeeexercifed with this tempta- 
tion, that they cannot bee the children of God,becan(e 
thcyneverhad that deepc fbrrow and long tying under it 
that many of their brethren have had. Whereas they 
fhould know , that not mens examples , but Gods Word 
mnftbeQ«irrulcofdire<5tion. The Lord dealeth not with 
all alike , becaufe in wifedome hce knoweth what is mofl 
meet for every man. Doth any man complainc becaufe 
his joints are fct , or his wounds cured with little fmart 

and 



batter doivm our Faith^ and how he may he reftfied. 171 



arrdpaine? ThePhyfitianknowes beft theftrengthofhfs 
patient 1 and what hec can bearc : what is neceflary for 
one, would kill another. It \% good to grieve, becaufe wee 
can grieve no more for finne : But to doubt of Gods 
\(yiz s becaufe hee deales gently with us, left wee fhould 
befwallowedupofforrowj is great ignorance, weaknefle , 
and folly. God many times keepes from his fcrvants the 
horrible and gaftly afpeft of their finnes in wonderfull 
mercy, left tite horrour of them , and Gods wrath due 
for them , (hould over-whelmc them. If God by in- 
ticements and ipeaking to thy heart have brought thee 
home unto him , thou haft caufe to magnific the tender 
mercy of the Lord , who hath not dealt with thee after 
thine inquities : for had hee fet thee upon theracke , as 
many have beene , thou haft reafon to thinke , thouhadft 
never beene able to beare it. Feare of conlcience, griefe of 
minde , doubtfulnefle of falvation commends no man to 
God ; neither is it againft a man or with him in afluring 
himfelfc of falvation , whether wee have long or ftiort time I 
beene preffed with fuch Ibrrowes, but that hee bee well 
freed and delivered fiomiiich trouble, and difcharged of 
his feare. 

§. 7. A poore Chriftian is oft put to great plunges 
through the malice of Satan, becaufe there is much weak- 
neffe of fpirituall life in him > hee never felt any great 
ftrcngth ofgraceinhimfelfe, and what he formerly felt is 
now decayed. By this Temptation God doth chaften our 
pride and fwelling of heart , unthankfulneflfe, difconti- 
nuanccofcareto cherifh and increafe received graces by 
meanes lan^tified , running into occafions of decay and 
cooling, and contentment with a fmall pittance of grace, 
faith, holincfle : For all which finnes, and other of like 
kind , wee muft unfainedly humble our felves before God , 
craving pardon of his meere grace and mercy. This Hu- 
miliation isaipeciall meanes to eafe the confcience ; as the 
wound doth ceafe raging when it is opened and well 
drawne. 

And 



Tuith may he 
four.d in them^ 
fho never ftUHd 
fUch depth cf 
forraw, as others 
h*ve dtne. 



HoC 1.14. 



§.7. 
7. They never felt 
any great fitength 
oj grace. 

Remtdy, 



172 



of the temptations ivherely Satmfeeketh to 



'IVs mdj hsve 
truefaiih^lhougij 

•KeaeverhAduvy 
great ^reejtb of 

Trace, 



3"'3- 



Luke2i.2,3,4' 



§..8- 

g. what they for- 

merlyfeltisntw 

decided. 

"B^emedie. 
Phil 4. 10. 



Anditmul^.beretnembred, that wee are but children, 
and therefore weake; yea, and fubjcd to.manyfpirituall 
difeafesvfuch as take away fenfe of life : and therefore wee 
mult fecke to bee cured, andnotdefpaireoflife. When 
any one part or member is diftempered or ill at cafe, wee 
defpaire not of the fafetie of the whole perfon 3 but labour 
to cure and reftore it to health againe:fo when wee have 
offended, wee fliouldreibrtcothePhyfitianChrillJefus, 
make rur complaint to him, and bee confident for bis pro- 
mife fike that he will help us. And if they who have falne 
and offended God , may turne home againe to tbeir firft 
Husband with grod welcome; fhall not they much more 
be beloved of him, and comforted by him , who have not 
provoked him, but are onely held downe through feare and 
infirmity ? 

And though their graces beefmall, they maybee true 
whiles they be fmall. Little faith is faith, as a littlcfirc 
IS fire. Goddefpifeth not little things in obedience offe- 
red to him. In thefacrificesol theLavv, not the price of 
the gift, but the ability and feffeftion oftheofterer was re- 
fpe(^ted. Andif weaknefle of grace was any jullcaule of 
feare , who might aflurc himfelfe of Gods love ? Not one. 
For though fome have grace in greater meafure than o- 
thers , yet all are compaffed with infirmities, and have not 
attained unto perfection. But it is not lb much enquired 
how great or little , as how fincere our faith and obedi- 
ence is. Faith ifit be unfained , though but as a grainc of 
Muftard feed ; obedience , ifit be hearty, though mingled 
tvith many infirmities, hath promife of gracious acceptati- 
on. And thefmallefl: beginnings are pledges of greater 
favours, where there is thankfull acceptance, and conlcio- 
nable ufe of thole already received to the glory of the be- 
ftower. 

§. 8. If what was formerly felt bee now decayed in 
feeling ; even in Gods deareft children there may be decay 
of graces in part, and for a time. Of the 'Philippians the 
Apoftle faith , your care beginneth to fpring againe : be- 
like! 



hatter downe our Fatth^ and how he may be refijied. ino 



like they had their winter whom a new Spring revived. 
It is true the Lord hath promifed , that Hell gates fliall ne- 
ver prevaile utterly to overthrow the f^ith of his chofen, 
or any other grace radically accompanying falvation : but 
to preferve continuall fenfible exercife of any grace,he hath 
no where promifed. The graces of God doe ebbe and flow 
in his fervants (and that by the wife difpofition of God) 
left if wee had attamcd facility in all things, wee ftiould 
tbinke that our owne, which is meerly his worke. Who 
amongftthe faithful! doth alwayesheare with equall at- 
tention , reverence , chearefulneffe ?&c. or pray with like 
earneiinefle of defire , feeling of wants , aflurance to bee 
heard , or fubmiffion to Gods will ? or doe any thing at all 
times fo as at fome? The Lord many times wichdrawes the 
uie of fome particular grace, that ibme other may in greater 
meafure iliew forth it felfe in us. Joy and rejoicing in his 
mercy he vvitholds , that he might bring co the pradtice of 
humiliation. - 

§.p. What if a Chriftian cannot finde, no not after 
fearch and examination, any Xivcly fenfe or feeling of 
faith," nay, hee cannot difcerne any faith 2it all in himfelfe ? 
Hereby the Lord may corred our unthankfulnefle for mer- 
cies-fprmerly received , or that prelumptuous licence we 
toOketoour felves in finning, or in queftioning with onr 
f:lves of his graces : All which things wee are heartily to 
confefleand bewaile. But for the comfort of thediftref. 
fed, be is to know thatfometimes graces may lye hid, yea, 
andworke in relpecl of our acknowledgment infenfibly. 
The feed oftaith cannot be loft , after it is once planted in 
anhoneftandgoodheartby the holy Spirit : but the fight 
chereofmaybeehid from our knowledge, and the lively 
functions thereof inuermitted. The childe Mvzs in the mo- 
thers wombe , though it know not {o much. Life re- 
Tiaines in a man fallen into a dead fvound , wherein hee is 
t-Ieprived for a time of underftanding , reafon, memorie, 
f^nfe J motion , and all apparent vitail functions. The tree 
lives in winter , though nipped with frofts , and weather- 
beaten 



In^odsdearefl 
children there may 
be decay of graces. 



§.9. ^ 

They canrtotpnd 
any lively fen/e of 
faith. 

%emsdy. 



We may not con. 
clude^there it no 
truth of ^r ace in 
m^becaufi ive can- 
not perceive And 
feelett. 



174 



ofthetemptatlons whereby Satmfeekethto 



Prov.jo.ij. 



Pfal. ip i2« 



Tn time eftemp' 
ration thtjredly 
doe erre many 
•svaies »'» exami' 
nation ofthem- 
felvts. 



beaten with tcmpefts , dead in appearance. Coalcs raked 
clofe under the a(hes, that they give neither heat nor h'<»hc, 
doe yet retainc both, though they fhew not forth them- 
felves. There is a generation fure in their ownetyes , who 
are not purged from their iniquities : the moft holy are not 
privic to all their fecretfinnes, nor throughly acquainted 
with the deceitfulnefle of their owne hearts : And the 
graces of the Spirit may lye hid in the hearts of the rege- 
nerate,and worke inlenfibly to their feeling and difcerning, 
as well as^orruption lurke fecretly and worke privily in tSe 
foule both of regenerate and unregenerate. An argument 
drawne from his fenfe andfeeling, may have Ibme colour in 
theconceit of a diftrefiedminde: but in truth it is ade- 
ceitfull reafoning to conclude. That they have no faith, 
becaufe they have no fenfe or feeling thereofin their appre- 
henfion. 

In the agony ofconfcience none are more unfit to judge 
of our cftatc, than wee of our ownc. Though at other 
times wee be fickc of felfe-lovc , and too partiall in our 
owne cafe; yet in this ftate, towards our feh^eswee are 
moft uncharitable ; and being out of love without ^tl^vt^y 
wee are apt to derogate from the worke of Gods Spirit in 
us. It is moftcertainealfo, that in the examination and 
triall of our cftates,wce commit no fmall errours in the 
time of temptation , the minde being clouded with the 
miftsofSatansfuggeftions, and the heart h diftempered 
with feare, that wee cannot difcernc the graces of God in 
us,nor acknowledge boldly what in a fort wee fee. Sugge- 
ftions wee take to be (innes of confent and purpofc ; failing 
in the purpofed meafure of ferving God, or in fome particu- 
lar , wee diftingui{h not from falling from our generall 
purpofe to cleave unto God in the performance of all du- 
ties of holinefle and righteoufnefle : we put no difference 
betwixt ablblute falling from purpofe, and failing in exe* 
cution ofpurpofe in fome particular. Common infirmities 
wee judge prefumptuous finnes , or liich blemifhes as can- 
not be in the Saints of God : paffions wee cfteemeas deli- 
berate 



batur downe our Faithy and how he may be rejijied. 175 



berate purpofcd refolucions ; and motions to diftruft, 
which are evidences of. weaknefie, are fuppofed pregnant 
tokens of totall infidelitjr. Certaintic of adherenceis not 
diftinguiflied from certainty of evidence : ifwee find not 
aflurance of pardon , we conclude there is no faith, though 
poflTibly atthe prefenc, weerefolve to roll our fclves upon 
thefaithfuU promife of God , audpowrcoutourlbulesfor 
mercy. 

The Lord diverfly gives evidence of his Spirits prcfence 
in us. Sometimes a child of God perceives little diffe- 
rence in pra6lice betwixt himfelfeand very aliens; yet 
let him view his affe^ions , he may fee grace there : Ibmc- 
times againe more may bee feene in practice , than in the 
aftedlion. When the heart is over-whelmed with teare 
and doubt, a man cannot finde love, joy, or delight in the 
Word of God ; but then his frequenting the houfe of 
God J his private reading and conferenccjare teftimonies 
that his will is bent to the Law of God. But thefe things 
are not oblerved in the times of diftrefie and bitter anguifLj 
whence it followeth , that God may evidence his prefence 
with us by the Spirit of grace, when by rcafon of our frailty 
we cannot difcerne it. 

Furthermore , if a man can difcerne nofparke of grace, 
nor feele any good thing inhimfclfe, hee is not to delpaire. 
But as the fenfe and feeling of his prefent ftate ought to 
humble him under Gods hand, and move bim to enter into 
a ferious examination ofliimfelfe, and to unfained repen- 
tance for his finnes : fo mu(t he take comfort untohimfelfe, 
and prop up his weake declining faith, by calling to minde 
former times, wherein the Lord hath caufed his mercifull 
and gracious countenance to (liine upon him, and wherein 
hee hath glorified God by an holy life and converfation. 
For if ever he hath difcerncd the graces of Gods Spirit by 
the fruits of fan6tification, they are not utterly taken away, 
though for a time they bee buried from his fight, that hee 
cannot find them. The feed is not dead that lyethalhvm- 
ter under the clodsj& appcarcch not by fruit aboveground. 

Ifl 



Ifd man can dif- 
cerne nofparl^e 
of grace in him- 
filfefoTthe pre. 
ftntyheUuot to 
dejpairet 



Pral.77.3,9, 
10,11. 



Matth.ii.: 



§.io. 
r Pet. 5.8. 
10. Their fmnes 
be mimy in nuin- 
{jcfyandhainom 
for ^ttalitj. 



ij$ of the tempt dtiom wherebj Satan feeketh to 

If he be not able to gather comfort from former experi- 
ence, but be ready CO queftion that alfb, yet mufthee not. 
give way to uncomfortable and deading forrow : becaufe 
thethirftietbule, who neither fecleth inward fap 5 nor fin- 
deth outward fruit of grace ,is called to come unto Chrift 
the fountaine of living waters , that in him and by him hee 
mightbeea(ed,refreflied,andraadefrnitfull. This gracious 
invitation thepoore foule muft lay hold upon, and fay with- 
in himfelfe, I will draw neere unto the God of my filvation, 
and truft in him; for I have his firme and ftable promife,. 
that I fhall be watered with grace, and refrefhed with com- 
fort. If I be hungry, he hath plenty of provifion ; if barren, 
dry, and withered , with him there is abundance of grace, 
that I may be enriched, 

$.10. The Divell, who goeth about like a roaring L ton, 
feekingtvhom he may devours , ■will not ipare to iuggeft 
to the contrite and humbled fonlesthat God cannot or will 
not forgive his tranfgreffions , which have beenemofthai- 
nous for quality, many for number , and in which hee hath 
long lived and continued. And it may be the Lord would 
hereby corredl: our former conceits in the dayes of our va- 
nity, that of all things pardon of finnes is moft eaiily ob- 
tained, thatitwasbutafleightandlhiallthing to finnea- 
gainft God,that we might well enough take our fill of finne 
for the time, and turne to the Lord in old age and ficknefle- 
But withall ,this thought mufl- be held to arife from Satan, 
and fhunned as repugnant to the truth of God. For the 
promife of pardon is made to repentant finners without li- 
mitation to any time, perlbn , quality , or number of offen- 
ces. And for the remedy and removallof this temptation, 
firft, we rhould humble our felves before God for our light 
efteeme of finne, and procraftination or delayes : And then 
confider the endlefneflfe of Gods mercies in Chrift 3 the 
price which was paid for our redemption , the fweet promi- 
fes propounded in the Word, the ftableneffe and perpetui- 
ty of the Covenant , and the examples of great finners re- 
ceived to mercy,- ^••'^ •'''• 5:-'--M':' -^•■•-- " '■^:'.. :''':".n ■■■■ 

And 



The haittoufhejfe or 
number ofgurfins 
make Hi not unctt- 
fable of mercy. 
Remedy. 

r Cor.i.J. 

Jam 5.7. 

Jer.3 .1,2,3, 13,14. 



Godi waih. 
Renttdit, 



a Job T J.I 5. 
brieb.iji. 
F*ith may be 
^TOtg^yehtrt we 
ha 'je nofenfi ot 
feel'tH^efraercy, 



batter downe our Faith^ and how he may be refified, 177 

And what if a man feiifibly feele the heavie burthen of i^ ^^^ ,^^^, 
Gods wrath, and plainely diicerne his frowning and an- \^htavubmthln\f 
gry countenance ? Though fcnie of Gods Jove faile, faith 
may continue ftrong. For faith i% not grounded upon fenfe 
and feeling: but upon Gods gracious promifes, immutable 
goodneffe,and infallible truth .Yea, when a fcnfe and feeling 
ceafe , then faith which is ^ the evidence of things mtfeene, 
beginneth it chiefeworke : and the mo(i excellent faith 
flicweth it kWQ mod cleerely when wee have no fcnfe or 
feelirg, or when we feele the cleane contrary .Faith looketh 
to the promife, mercy, power, and truth of God, and to the 
manner ofhis working: and feeing hismer^yisincompre- 
henfible, his power infinite, his manner of working by con- 
traries, his truth firme and immoveable ; therefore in the 
greaceft terrours it beleeveth peace ; when God flievveth 
^imfelfe an enemie , it apprehendeth him loving and mer- 
cifull , andoutof thedeepeft humiliation, above fenieor 
reaibn gathereth the fweeteft conlblation. If ever wee 
have tailed of Gods love and mercy, lively faith conclu- 
deth that wee are ftillin his love and favour, whatfoever 
we apprehend in our prcfent fenfe and feeling : for whom 
he loveth , to the end hee loveth them. Yea, faith goeth 
before experience or fenfe of mercy , and waiteth for fal- 
vation in Chrilt , in the depth of miferie , grounding it 
felfe meerely npon the Word of truth which cannot lie. 
Wee beleeveto taf^e the goodnefleofthe Lord, not be- 
caufe we have felt already how kind the Lord is ; though 
we may make ufe of feelings paft , tofufhineusinprefenc 
agonies. 

Experience and fenfe is a ftay or prop for our better 
eafe, not the ground upon which our faith leaneth; and 
though it be fnaken , faith concinneth firme. If therefore 
at anytime our fenfe and feeling tell us one thing ( namely, 
that God hath caft us off for ever ,and will never looke 
gracioufly upon us) and the Word of God affure us of 
another, to wit , that God doth love us, and will never 
forfake us utterly ; wee are not to give credit to our owne 

N , feeling. 



James 1.17. 
John 13. 1.Z7 



of the temptations whereby Satanjeekethto 



Jer.20.i4>^5- 



5.11. 

ufed the meanes 
afgtdce^tmd can 
findeno cotn/ort. 
Cant.j.a,?- 
%etoedic. 



feeling, but to Gods Word. For our fenfeisoft decei- 
ving, fpecially in matters of godlinefiTe : but the Word of 
the Lord is fincere and abideth for ever. In bodily dilea- 
fes oflbme kinde, wee truftmoreto the judgement of a 
skilfull Phyiician, than to our owne conceits : and ftiall 
wenottbinke, that God knowes ouripiritualleftatebet' 
ter than we cur felves ? What can wee beleeve in matters 
ofreligion, if wee beleeve nor more than we can dilcerne 
by fenle or realbn ? The being ofa thing, and the fenfi- 
ble difcerning of the thing to bee, are divers. Howfoever 
atfometimestheyconcurre, yet oftentimes they are feve- 
red and difjoyncd. BecaufetheSunneappearethnotto us 
at Mid' night, {Kail we conclude, that it never hath, or will 
(bine to us againe? Shall a child imagine his Father never 
did or will truly love him hereafter, becaufe for the pre- 
fent he doth not admit him into his prefence, or afford him 
a favourable and lovely countenance ? No lefle abfurd,but 
moreinjurieus is it to our heavenly Father , to conjecture • 
that no grace or favour is to be found with God, feeing now 
the beamcs ofhis love and mercy are hidden from.us* 

The deareft (ervants of God, who have beene indued 
with mof^ eminent graces , and highly advanced into fpc- 
ciall favour with him , have yet in their owne fenfe appre- 
hended wrath and indignation in ftead of love and favour , 
diipleafurein fteadofcomfortjand trouble in fteadof peace. 
Did God tenderly refped them, when he feemed to teare 
theminpeeces , and to breakc their bones like a roaring 
Lion : and fhall wee judge ofhis affe6lion by our prefcnt 
feeling ? 

$.11. But what if wee have long ufed the m.eanes of 
grace , and can finde no comfort ? In this cafe wee muft 
repent of the fornjer negle6l to accept of grace offered, and 
pray to God to forgive and pardon iu Wee muft alfb ex- 
amine our hearts with all care and d'iligencet© finde out 
the fins which haply doc hinder comfort,and bewailing the 
fame, ftirrc up cur felves to receive the promJfes. For 
oft-times the entertaining of fbmc bofome finne, which 

we 



i^atter downe our Fdth^ and how he may be refijled. i jp 



="( 



we are loach to part withall, is that which makes the breach 
in our confcience. And fometimes we walke without com- 
fort * not fo much becaufe God with-holds it, as that we 
put it from us; either not knowing that wee are called to 
belcevc , or not encouraging our ielves to ftrive againft 
feares , or (hutting our eyes againft the evidences of grace, 
that God hath bellowed upon us , or miftaking what the 
teftimony of the. Spirit is , whereby God witnefleth to us ■ 
that we are his children. For whiles wee takeit to befome 
vocall teftimony , which certifieth us againft feares and 
doubts, even in the middeft of temptations j and in a man- 
ner whether, wee^ill or no, we fall into no fmall perplexi-. 
ties, not finding any fuch certificate in our felves , whereas 
the witnede of the Spirit is cleane of another nature. 

This is no new thing, that God ftiouldcaufe his chil- 
dren to feeke long before they finde comfort. The Apoftle 
in like extremity hf ought the Lord thrice ^xhat is,ofcen,be- 
fbre hce received anfwer- And though God delay, either 
to chaften neglc£ts, or to kindle afteflion , or that graces 
hardly obtained may be valued according to their worthy 
yet will he not alwaies defpife his children that cry unco 
him day and night. The ardent defireftiallac length be la 
tisfiedjthe panting ibule be refrelhed with the waters of 
confolation. 

Comfort and joy is the reward of our obedience : but 
patient waiting is a pleafing and acceptable fervice to God. 
It is Gods worke to give comfort , it is our dutie to waite 
for it in the waies of faolinefle. Let us bee contented to 
ferve God freely without wages , and in the end wee fliall 
bee nolofers. Remiflfion of finnes and peace of tonfcience 
are favours worth waiting for. If the Lord fhould keepc 
ns on the racke even till the laftgalpe, and then impart 
unto us the leaft drop of his mercy or fenfe of his love in 
Jefus Chrift , his grace were unlpeakable towards our 
K)ulcs : and let us not then thinke much to waite in pa- 
tience a little while, Wc have not waited fb many yeeres 
in the meanes of grace for comfort, as Godhacn waiced 

N 2 for 



Vie giUy feme' 
timet ft alke 
■without comfort^ 
becaufe they put 
it from them- 
feivet. 



Oftmtimes Gti 
emt/ith hit chil' 
dren to feeke long 
before th^findt 
comfort. 
z Cor.i».?. 



r 



i8o 



Qfthetemftations wherebj Satanjeekethto 



§ ia« 



fear^ull extremity 
Hoiv thli temfta- 
ties is tobe re- 
fified. 



aLuk. 11? ». 
Rom.8.34,5J. 

b Phil. i.^. 
Rom.Ti 2S». 
Pfal.37'*4' 



for our converfion. If we have made him to ftand knocking 
at thedooreofour hearts long before we gave him entrance; 
let it not feeme tedious, if the Lord doe not 'forthwith open 
tousthedooreofhisprivie chamber, and admit us to the 
fweet feliowfhip and communion with him. Comforts 
when they come are ufually proportioned to the meafure 
of tribulation, and multitude of fervent prayers powred out 
before the Lord. Much trouble receives in the end plenti- 
ful! confolation. 

$.12. Satan molefteth (bme Cbriflians with feare of 
7//2/JX$wl! fal'ing into fomefearefullextremitie: By which temptati- 
on it pleafeth God to acquaint men with their own weak- 
ncffe, and to chafkn or prevent pride, fecurity, ra(h cenfu- 
ring of others that have fallen into fuch difcomforts, or the 
like. But for the remedie thereof, let them labour to forti- 
fie faith in the gracious promifes, which God hath made 
to his children,of fuflentation and prelervation. As faith in- 
creafethjfo feare abateth ; as it ebbes jlb feare flows .And let 
them to this end confider,that Chrift hath a prayed for pre- 
fervation againft all feparating extremes. And God that 
cannot lie , hath ^ promifed to keepe his children from 
utter declining, and to eftablifli them thatbee feeble and 
ready to fall. The Lord hath made it knowne to bee his' 
will and pleadire , thathe will never take away that grace 
which once he hath given , but incrcafcit rather till it be 
perfe«5led and accomplifhed rand when we are aflured of his 
will, we may relie upon liis power for theeffefVing of it, 
and inferrc heewill keepe us fafely, becaufeheisableto 
eftablifliand confirmeus. The greater our weakenefle is 
in grace, and the more grievous our fickneffe through 
fiane and the noyfbme humours of corruption, the 
more carefully will bee watch over us with his Almighty 
power. TheArong cannot f^and by their owne might, \? 
God withdraw his hand : and the weakeftfhall bee able 
to overcome their mightieft enemies, being underpropped 
by the Lord. What flouds of trouble fbever doe flow over 
US, we (hall efcape drowning, if the Lord hold up our chin. 
' Feare 



l^atter downe our Faithj and how he may be rejifted. 1 8 1 



Feare h a deeeitiflU and malitious paffion , tycannicalJ, 
raOi, and inconfiderate , proceeding oftentimes from want 
of judgement , more than from the prcfencc or approach 
of eviJi to be feared , tormenting with the dread of what 
fl:»Ilnev(a*conc^7wewere never in danger of: It is, there- 
fore valiantly to bee rcfifted , not to bee beleevedorreafo- 
ned withall. Feare in our owne rtrcngth is by all meanes 
to bee cherifhcd : but diffidence in Gods power , mercy, 
goodnefle, truth, and providence is to bee abandoned. 
The jftroi^ muft not prefiirae in bimielfe, though more 
excellent than others in grace j nor the wcake diftruft in 
the Lord J though feeble, and not able to goe high-lone. 
The hope of prelervation ftaying upon inherent grace 
is felfe-confidence ; and the feare of falling arifing j 
from the lenfe of weaknefTe is diffidence in God. In 
holy Scripture wee (hall finde, that the flrongeft have 
fallen , when the weake have flood ; and they have 
beene foiled moflgrievoufly, not in the greateft afTauIts, 
but when they have given way to their lufts, negle(5led 
their watch, or were growne lecure and dreaded no 
danger. The Lord beft knowcs the ftrength of his 
childe , and will not fuffer him to bee overtaken with 
thofe uncomfortable fails, out of which he fhall not re- 
cover. 

§ 1 5. Sundry Chriflians through the malice of the 
Devill, bee nnfettled with feares, that notwithftan- 
ding all their care they fliall never hold out in faith 
and an holy courfe of life unto the end ; but by perfe- 
cution or other afflictions and provocations fhall bee 
turned, backe,* Ipecially confidering that they are mar- 
vellous apt to flip and coole in time of peace, and 
whileft they Mvt. under the meanes of grace. This feare 
is to bee removed , by calling to minde the promilcs of 
Godjfb plentifully and richly fet downe in tne word of 
grace. And they muft confider , that the fame God who 
keepes them in time of peace, and blefTeth the meanes 
of grace whileft they doe injoy them , is able and will 

N 3 uphold 



513. 

vet hold mtt t$ the 
end. 



Hew thit ttmpta- 
tton is to be rS' 
moved. 



P£>I. If S. 



lids. 8- 13. 



jg2 ofthetempationsrvherebjSatmfeekethto j 

uphold them in the time of trouble , and when meancs bee 
wanting. 

Of our fclves vsrec ftand not at any time ,• by his power 
we may overcome at all times. And when we are Ibreft af- 
iaulted , hee is ever ready at our right hand, to fupport and I 
ftay us that wee (hall nor fall. Hee hath well begun, and 
(hall happily goe forward in his worke, who hath in truth 
beeun. For true grace well planted in the heart, how weake 
foever, fhall hold out for ever. All total! decaies come from 
this, that the heart was never truely mollified, nor grace 
deeply and kindly rooted therein. 

And as for preient wcaknelTes , it is good to acknow- 
ledge and bewaile them j but they muftnot, forfomeim- 
perfedions , cafl downe themfelves halfe deiperately , as 
though God regarded them not , or they fhould wither 
and utterly decay. For as the drie and thirfty ground or 
fpunge fucketh up much water, fb the humble fpirit drinkes 
up much grace , and fhall bee replenifhed abundantly with 
the waters of comfort. And it their portion of grace bee 
the fmalleft of all others, they muftftrive to grow forward, 
but without difcouragement. For of fmall beginnings 
I come great proceedings; of one little fparke a mighty 
flame; of a fmall Acorne a mighty Oake; of a graincof 
Muftard-feed a great tree : and a little leaven ieafoneth the 
whole lumpe. All feares and doubts, which srife in their 
hearts , muft drive them to fend up earneft prayers toGod 
daily and oft, for this grace of faith to bee more firmely 
rooted in them : which they muft doc willingly and gladly, 
that they may feele their doubting and feare to vanifli as 
faft, as they perceive their hold in the promifes of God to 
waxe flronger. 

$. 14. Satanbeares many in hand, that their manifold 
crolTes and troubles in the world, and their want of out- 
ward bleffings , is an argument of Gods difpleafure to- 
wards them. This was the fieiry dart, which hee by the 
mouthes q£ EHphas , Bildad, undT&spbar (yea of his 
owne wife ) did fhoot at Jol> ; againlt all which , if hee 

had 



S14. 

li-Tbeyarettia- 
»y waits crojed 
and a^iBed. 



Batter downe our Faith^ and how he may be refijied, i g ? 



had notiield out the fhield offaitb , hee had bcene pierced 
through and through. And wee fee by daily experience , 
that when a godly man is croffed in his wife ,. children , 
goods , reputation ; thefe outward affli6lions are often 
great occafions of deadly forrowes , and grievous temp- 
tations touching the alfurance of his owne falvation. 
The temedy is , to thinke ferioufly and to acquaint our 
felves. familiarly with the properties of God; the truth, 
unchangeablenciTe and nature of his promifes ; and the 
manner of his dealing with others of his fervants in his 
wonderfu II providence. For thereby wee flia 11 learne,that 
God doth love tenderly , when hee doth correal feverely ; 
and remaineth unchangeable , when our outward condi- 
tion doth varie and alter : yea, that all his chaftifemcnts 
are but purgative medicines, to prevent or curelbme Ipi- 
rituall difcafe , which hee feeth wee are inclined unto. 
Should God never minifter phyficke till wee fee it need- 
full, defire to take it, or bee willing of it j alas, wee 
(hould perifh in our corruptions, and die for want of help 
in due time. It is good to humble our felves when God 
corre<5leth : but to doubt of hi s }^ovq , when hee dealeth lo- 
yirtglywithuSjisagreatweaknelTe. Alio wee (hould call 
to tnjnde that God allowes, yea requires, that men in 
affliction fliould \iwQ by faith, both for a laniftiffed 
ufe in them, and a good iffue out of them in due 
fealbn. And lbaffli6lions or earthly encumbrances would 
bee no meanes to weaken our faith , but to increafe it 
rather. rTibfi.*^.- 

§. ij. Some godly perforis by the lubtle and cruel! 
malice of the Devill, are brought to this bondage, that 
they are perfwaded that they are utter reprobates, and 
have no remedy againft their deiperation. And this temp- 
tation,cnough of it felfe to (bake and terrifiexhe affli6led, 
is made farre more grievous when melancholy pofTefTeth 
the partie : for that raifeth excefle of diftruft and feare> 
and caufeth the partie to perfwade himfelfe of mife- 
ry , where there is no caufe. In this weakene(re Satan 

N 4 alTailes 



Remctty, 

Outvard crajfes 
are uo argunn^nt 
of Gods difplta. 
furs. 

job y. 17. 
Prov.3, 11. 
Jam. 1. 12. 
Heb.i2.7,8,9, 

lOj 11,11. 



1 6- Tbty are 
Prouglypoppd 
ivithfeare, that 
God hath utter' 
[y cajl tbfvt tf. 



i84 



ofthetemftations wherebj Satanfeekethto 



Hoff ChriflU»s in 
thii diftrejfe and 
anguijh are tt be 
comforted. 



aifailes fuch poore fervants of God by fpirituall fug- 
gcftion, tempting chem to fuch finnes asbe very ftrange , 
and fuch as they abhorre the very leaft conceit of them ; 
and when by fuch temptations they are brought low , in 
the anguifh and bitternefle oftlieirfoules, theDevillla- 
bourcth elpccially to dimme their knowledge and judge- 
ment I that they may have no fure hold of any point of 
do»5lrine , which may (bundly comfort them, that Co hee 
may as a roaring Lyon devoure them (peedily. And 
vvhenhee hath covered their hearts with darkenefle , and 
brought them into a dreadfull feare of Gods wrath, hee 
holdeth them at this vantage, that every thing which is 
before them , is made matter to encreafe their diftreffed 
eftate. - - 

For the ftay and comfort of ilichdiftrefledfoules; they 
are to bee perfwaded* that they be not under the wrath 
of God > neither is his anger kindled againft them, for 
all the feare that oppreflech them, when their cftat« is 
in their owne feeling at the worft ; becaulethey have not 
finned againft the holy Ghofl-, nor malicioufly let them- 
felves againft the truth and Gofpel of God, nor perfc- 
cutedit wilfully againft knowledge and confdence : which 
one fin only is able to (hut them out from all hope of Salva- 
tion. And here they muft beware , they make no more 
finnes of that kinde than God himfelfe hath pronounced 
tobee of that fort : for in thefe matters that concerne Gods 
Religion, even the perfection of our wiidome is but folly, 
much more our fickebraines and melancholicke underftan- 
dine is to bcremovcd farre from handling fuch holy things. 
And feeing their confciences doebearethem witnefTcjhow 
muchthefe temptations are repugnant to their defires and 
liking, how gladly they would be freed and delivered from 
them, how grievous and burdenlbme they are unto them, 
and chiefly railed by Satan, who abufeth their fimplicityj 
therefore there is no caufe, why they (houldbelbdifcou- 
raged or out of heart, no more than one that hath had a 
fearefull dreame, when he awaketb. 

Moreover, 



bitter dmne mr TMh, andh mhe may berefipd. 1 8 ; 



"Itoover, they are i^iS^Sfflefloelfe w be put in 
minde (yet with the fpitk ofo^wlfesndcompffion); 
and toconfider, how much it doth difplcafeGod, that they 
arettSvedftomtheir.faith,andbaveg.venpkceto<:on- 

ceksa^fpiritsofettour , .cpnctiiry^« thejioftcleatcand 
StaWepromifes made thw*«thKft, tef«nt.fe«^ 
and lo»e the Lord , tjembleat te vwtAi^eteoken-h^ajr- 
ted, 2: And therefore they (hoaU gather more godly 
boldneffeand confidence inGodoi>theoiiefide.an<rtna:e 
co^ree and ftrength againft Satan x,n .the other fide. 
Fc^ifGod call and incourage^stp trnftand telle |pon 
hto and weeftandingwneedxhQ:£0f,vvould moll gladly 
S aTe to promife? rnade in Ghrift Jefe. who is b^e 
tte ftoHld hinder us? TheScnptnte^m^ngc^h^ma- 
fce of Saun in tempting and affaiUngChriftians, |tddeth 

them, £»Jh-<,>>sA«4 <,fgo,dcow»g',Mr4ftfirf.%'^ 
Sk, Sitan temffethibe^ , tp overthtw thewiattb ; 
an/bv eiOTB place to feaws Mid donbt&t^ey, advantage 
the en^el e alaulft their foules : but let ^^hemtake oc. 
cafionbv the tempiatioti to draw nigh ffliEO God, and 
mwfe BP themfelves mote confidently to <# and w^ite 

H^Siotdj foMUhey.. 

^^tlier let them after thisbe ftill obje^im„tte th«;y 

feelefmallftrength offaithandhope:fottheteby theane- 

mv may uke encouragement to their diadvantage , when 

feare (etteth open theheart tohismaUtiOBS temptations, 

and binds the Udsofthediftreffedtthath^cwnottefift: 

but Itt them ftir up tfet.conta^e and refolnBontowa^t? 

upon the Lord, not iiftening any more to their ftrqi^hw 

&ull feare. And v«hat though they feelenot that 

f™Sneffe,which fometimes they felt? Will they theKfore 

X rfieir ftate „ bee naught? Whatfijeetfleffecjuthe 

fo^etafte,v,henit isover^helmed with^tes^perplexed 

Uhtemptations.troubled^ith doubts ? Pbyfi<;^^un- 

nleafantandbittertothe taje : TempuEion^ouldnptbe 

'temptation, if itdid not affea. Ifihefoulebenowfic^V 



James i- 1£. 
blaytf^it. 



Epher €-10,12. 
I Pee.;.!,?. 



i85 



ofthetemftatiom whereby Satanjeekethto 



and tafteth" not the ^ect meates ofconfolation, which it 
was wont (as the body which is inacourfe of Phyficke) 
will they judge themfelves to be ftarke dead , or in a con- 
dition irrecoverable? Wee have experience 3 how divers 
times the difeale prevaileth over the ficke peribn , that 
ad^ions faile, and faculti^ fecmfe quite to be ipent ; neither 
hand nor foot is able to doe. their dutie ; the eye i% dimme, 
tfie hearing dull , the tafte altered , and the tongue difta- 
fteth all things, even of moft plealant relJifli; and the 
weake and feeble patient fecmeth to attend the time of 
diffolution : when yet notwithftanding there remaineth 
a feccet power ofnature , and a forcible fparke of life , that 
overeommeth all thefe infitmities , and confumeth them 
like drolTe , and reridreth to the body a greater purity and 
firmcnefle of health than before theficknefle it did en- 
joy. Even fo it is in this fpirituall eftate , the Ibule is ficke , 
and 'riotdead ,' faith is aflailed > but not overcome j andif 
in patience the finifhing of this fecret Workc, which 
pafleth all conceit and capacitie of man , b€ attended, thefe 
burningfeavers of temptations fhallappeafe to bee flacked 
and cooled by the mercy and grace of Chrift, and that 
fparke offaith which now lieth hid aftd oVer-whelmed with 
heapes of temptations J to breake forth againe : And as 
nature after a petfeft crife difchargeth her kl^c, to the 
recovery of former health : lb {hall all doubts and feares and 
terrours be removed j and firength of faith reflored with 
filch fupplyjas it (hall be able to make evident proofe,what 
fecret vertue lay hid, andyecnotidle,inaiI this uncom- 
fortable plight. Againe , as in outward fenies(\vefeefome- 
times , and feele , and heare, when we doe not perceive it : 
fowemayaIibhavefaith,andnocalwaies have thcfenfible 
perceiving thereof^ Crxiu-: ilji;;v.,-..ip ::j-./y,. 

Yea, fuch asmoft hunger ai^thirft'dft^hght^oiilhelfe'', 
and are poore in fpirit and broken in heart , as they doubt 
and feare in every aftion left God be diflibhoured by their 
converfation 5 fb are they jealous of their precious faith , 
left it be not in fUch meaiure as they defir^ , or in truth be 

none 



hdtter dmne our Fdth^md hm'hentalherefifted. 187 



— f 



Z;;^t all : wherein tbey may eafJy be deceived , fittt , in 
^fdifce nine, then in the meafure and portion. For 
len he "ward feeling thereof doth not anlvyer their 
defire and the aflions proceedingthere-ftom doenotfa- 
^J» thetf thirft of righteoufnefle. whereby rqleefcmay 
ifewthenouShmentoffaitK, and the fat sfy.ng of that 
tiietotncnuu 1 difcourased and imangledwith 

fSca^s^t^mwhid^^^^^^^^^ 
|re™b le oGods Word might eafUy deliver theirs Arid 
touchins the portiomit is a fault to meafure the exceUencre 
offtXnd power thereof, partly by quantitie , andanfea. 
rnnAi; fruits rib to caUthem) and notby vertue, tinde 
t^^dX^^txl^'^:^^, and feafonable fruit : which er- 
Stemptadontliedittteffedareapttorun^ 
foTtrolle themfelves without ca«fe. Men lookeno 
[hat Come fhould fpringin harveft. orbenp"« 
rhat trees fhould bud orbeareftnitinwinter^ becanfeitis 
it th?Sfcnfor fuch things. Neither °ught wee to ejea 
fech Pcrength of memory and lively operative aaions of 
SaceV n age , fickneffe; greatforrowesandtemprations, 
Sm other times in young yeeres free from Inch affaults. 
Shfof faith, fitforthefeafon,may bedif^ed by 

to that can rightly i^^^g^f '"^ 'roffEtSe 't 
merlv enioyedbee lacking. The effeas of faith in^reat 
SatiS and cloudie flafons are to looke up for hejpe , 
feK^ne , complaine to God , prize his 6vour, d«vv 

nftftohim, anlcaft himfelfe "Pf", 9^' *?Jf^w'S 
feeme to bee angry : at this time faith is incumbred witn 
many toong feafel. wherewith it is burthened , againft 
vvhS. i laboureth, over which it doth not eafily nor 
fteedily rrevaile. Joy , peace, fweetrefrefliing, and fen- 
fible aftu4 of Goi mercy . be the ft«its ofwellgtowne 
fat hTnthf times of viaory and freedome : Thofe Sum- 
mer f™is are not to begathered in the depth of winter, 
^rl^e™; tomeafureVtruthoforace^^^^^^ 
effefls Drooer to youth, or the foundneffe of faith in temp- 
a^WtHee^eas 'peculiar to the dales oft^mph. 



1 8 S of the feiffftMiens whereby Satmfeeketh to 

NeitheF a^^W^eto accoum the nature of any thing, accor- 
ding to otir lerife, ot the ftiew it maketh. For then ftiould 
the moft fruitfuU tree in winter be taken for barren, and 
theMy foyle for drie and unfruitfull, whileft iti^fhut 
i!jp with the hard froft. But reaibn, being guided by the 
WbrdofGod , n^uft leade \xs rightly to judge of the pre- 
fence afld life of faith in our foules , which being the 
(hield in this our Ipirituall warfare, cndureth much 
battering and many i>runts , and receiveth the fore- 
front of the battellj and oftentimes fareth as if it were ' 
pierced through, and woriic unfit for battell; yet is it 
indeed of nature invincible , and repellcth whatfbevcr 
engine the enemy inforceth againft us, and ftandcth firmc- 
rooted, whatlbever ftorme Satan raifethforthedilplacing 
thereof. 

How then are the diftreffed to behave themfelves in 
this temptatfon J when both the fenfe of faith is dulled in 
them, and the fruits miniftet difcontentment ? They' 
muft rightly confider what bee the winter-fruits of faith, 
and not expefi: fijch things in themfelves as agree not to 
that feaibn ; and withall remember that the gifts and mer- 
cy of God is without repentance : and fb take courage un- 
to themfelves confidently to caft their foules upon the 
mercy of the Lord in JefusChrift. For as he knew them, 
when they were ftrangers from him , and loved them , 
when they hated him, and had nothing which might pro- 
voke his mercy, but finne and mifery : fb is his good- 
nefl'e continued ftill upon them for his owne fake, and 
ndt at all for their deferving. And though they feele their 
ability weake, theenemieftrong, their ftrength tired and 
i'cleaneworne, their corruption upon the point to prevaile, 
• the fruits and branches of faith, through thcfeftormytem- 
1 peft s, nipped and fliaken; yet the fap of faith fhall never 
I be dried up in the root , neither can any winde of Satan fb 
I blaft, that the immortal! feed be at any time quite withc- 
( red. But patience and conftancy , with a refolute minde to 
i beare Gods triall , will bring a good end , yea, by a meeke 



batter doivne our Faith^ and horv he may be rejljied. i ^^ 



going under Gods handinthefe, they Hial! learne experi- 
ence to wade through greater afterwards ^ and yet in the 
midft of them,to have hope that they (hall not be afhamed. 
Say their former courfe of Jife paft hath not anfwe- 
red that fincerity the Lord rrequireth ; what then ? Are 
they therefore reprobates? No, bun it argues want of 
faith ? Notfo; but place for further increafe of faith , and 
the fruits thereof. Thofe whom the Lord hath chofen to 
beehisworfhippers, and hath redeemed and confecrated 
holy to himfelfc ; they be his plants , and engraffe d Olive- 
branches inhis Sonne ; who take not their full perfedtion 
at once , but ( according to the nature ofplants ) require 
daily watering and drefTing, whereby by degrees they at- 
taine in the end a full ftatureinChrift. In Scripture wee 
have example of weakebeleevers as wellasofftrong. As 
rhe Holy Ghoft hath remembred the faith o^ Abraham , 
who beleeved above hope, under hope ; fo hath it recor- 
ded the faith of Nicodemus , in knowledge fimple and 
weake, inprofeflTion and pra6lice timorous and fearefull. 
In one and the fame perlbn we (liall finde different degrees 
of faith at divers times ; at onetime like a graineofMu- 
ftard-ieed ,: at another time like agroTvne Oake; now like 
a fmoaking fnuffe, but" fdone after buirftingout into a bright 
flame. The ftrongeft faith of 5ny Saint mentioned in Scrip- 
ture is imperfea, aflailed with temptations , mixed with 
manifold doubtings. "For they were fubjea to innumerable 
infirmities, which arenotfpeciftedintheBookeofGod ; 
neither was it fit that it (bould bee a regifter of their mani- 
fold temptations, frailties, and falls. But out of thofe things 
which are recorded , wemay perceive, they were (baken 
witha{raults,over-taken with corruptions,trippedand foiled 
fometimesby the policie of Satan. All which is fet upon the 
file for our admonititon and confoIation.So that a Chriftian 
may not account himfelfe void ofgrace,becaufe bee is not 
perfea in faith, knowledge , and love : but he is wifely to 
confider the fecret worke of Gods Spirit and grace,and take 
comfort of the fmalleft crum and drop of this heavenly 

fuften- 



Mark.p. 14. 



John 3.; 



Numb io.ii,ra. 
Pfal.22.i.& 



Rom. I J 4. 



r 'i.'^i 






I^O 



of the temptations voherebj Satan feeketh to 



* MattH.ij. 1?. 

i 



ftentation,and attend the time ofperfeil: growth,according 
to the good plealiireofGod. 

Oh, but they feele not the teftimony of Gods Spirit , 
which might atfnre them ; they can finde no fparke of 
grace in themfelves. Neither doe any of Gods children at 
all times feele it : but that they may fee their own frailty , 
God doth as it were hide himfelfe for a leafon (as a Mother 
doth from her child to trie hisafiFe6lion) that they may 
with more earneft defire mourne for Gods wonted grace , 
and praife him with more joyfulnefle of heart when they 
have obtained it againe. And yet God doth not with-hold 
comfort from his children, many times when they walke 
heavily : but their owne frailty and vehemency of temp- 
tation, which opprefleth them, diminiflieth the feeling 
thereof. When the winde is loud , the aire ftormie and 
cempeftuous, a man cannot heare the voice of his friend; 
when the heart is filled with feares, and perplexed with 
manifold temptations toflTing it up and downe, thecalme 
and frill voice of the Spirit is not difcerned. Andinthofe 
feafons , the trial! of faith is to be taken , by thole fruits , 
which arc evident to the eye of others , who can judge 
more fincerely than the affii^ed themfelves , in that an- 
guifh of loule andfpirit. As the fick man during the time 
ofhisdiftemper,muftnottruft to hisowne tafre, but ra- 
ther relie upon the learned Phyfician, and other honeft and 
difcreet friends : fo the faithfiiU muft not give too much 
credit to the fuggeftious of their owne heart poflfefled 
with feare; but rather beleeve their faithfull Paftor, 
and other godly and experienced Chriftians that are about 
them. 

But to yecid fb much to their prefent weaknefle (be- 
caufe in this peplexity they will bee ever and anon quefti- 
oning the loundnefle of former comfort , and integrity 
of their hearts) fuppofe they were defritute of^race, 
^d never had felt found comfort ; fhould they utterly 
deipaire , or give place to deading forrow ? In no fort, for 
Chrift calleth the burthened and laden tocome unto him 

for 



batter downe eur Faith^ and how he may be refifled. i p j 



for cafe and comfort. Being deftitute of grace and com- 
fort, they are willed to repaire unto him for both, who hat^ 
Ibflficientinftoreforthem. l( they finde not themfelvesto 
be eafed, they know they are burthened ; if they be not wa- 
tered, they feele themfelves to be thirftie ; if they belceve 
not, they are allowed, inviteds encouraged to come unto 
Chrift : To them he calleth, as if he did particularly name 
them. Come J ee to the rearers and drinks ; Come unto me, 
and I will refrefli you. Why ftandyee trembling as if 
your cafe were defperate ? Yee defire helpe, 
and hee calleth * you, Bee of good 
courage , ana come un- 
to him. 



Efay 5y.r,2. 
Joh.7. 37. 
Apoc.22.17. 




193 




The Life of Faith. 



Tbefecondpart^ 



CHAP. I. 
fVhatit it to live hy fait by and how a Chrifiinn 
Should fiirre up himfelfe 
thereunto. 

Any and pretious arc the fruits of 
faith, whereof we have ulc at all 
times-, in every ft ate, at every 
rurne, and in all things that we 
goe about : which who fo Wf uld 
cn/oy, he mult learnc not oncly to 
have, but to ufe it aright -, to live 
b\)ithere, fecdit.g upon the fcve- 
fall promifes of mercy j and 
not onely to be faved by it, when he goeth hence. The 
Lord himfelfe, the Author and giver of life, hath often 
taught us, by his Prophet anH Apoftle, That thejufi man, 
is not only to believe to Juftification,but^9 live l^y Faith, 
The worthy fervants of God,in all agcs^crc all brought in 
as a cloud r f witneffcs,teftifyingthis trkh, that Thejuft 
fiaU live bjfaith.'^y faith Enoch walkedrvith CodiBy faith 

O ^brAham 




inJacementSjH 
live by fsitb. 



Hab.z.4. 
Rom 117. 
Gal.j.ii. 
Hcb.io.jS, 
Gen. 5 14. 
Heb.11.5. 



iP4 

Heb.11.5. 
Gcn.z4.40. 

Gal.z.zo. 



Col.3.3,4. 



what it is to liveb^ Faith,8cc» 



1, Tim. 1. 5, 

lun.animad, in 
BeU-Cgnt.<^Mb 

14. 



Verfej. 
Verfe 1 8. 



Chrifils tie 
fountaine of 
life, and. JAith 
tht meane. 

loh 1.4, 



t/€kraham ve>4lksd before God. Paul lived, if ever any, 
comfortably ,bappily,fromthe time of his converfion, to 
thetiHacofhisdilfoution : bat even wbileft he lived in 
the lie 111., he lived hy the the faith of our Lordlefm Chrifi, 
Wichoat faith what are we but dead moules ? living car- 
kafesjthat carric about, and are carried with dead foulcs ? 
The beft, moft excellent, and pretious part of Man is de- 
ftitute oftrue life,till faith be infpircd into it frona above, 
whereby we arc united unto Chrift the fountaine of fu- 
pernaturali and eternall iife. The moft glorious or plea- 
fant life of Man, without faith, is but a vaine fhadow, 
a meere pid:ure, and refcmblance of life, or of death ra- 
ther, drowned in carnall delight,full of vexation, and lea- 
ding towards everlafting perdition. The beft worke of 
the regenerate, if it be not animated and quickned by 
lively faith, is but the very outfide and dull matter of a 
good and acceptable worke*. There is no going right for- 
ward in the way to Heaven, if faitb be not the. guide. 
The end of the Commandement is love, out of a pure 
confcience^ and faith unfained. That which is here called 
the precept, is not all the law, but oncly the precept 
that Paul giveth to Timothy, that hee fliould have care to 
fee that there were no ftrangedo(3:rine admitted, neither 
for forme,nor matter^neithcr for things direffly contrary; 
to wholfome dodlrinCj nor for idle queftions, not tending 
to build up the people in the love of God, and of their 
Neighbour • as appeareth evidently, both by theverbe 
before, whereof this word here is derived, and by this 
fame word ufcd afterward in this Chapter, where the 
fignificationofit is reftrained unto the prefent matter of 
exhortatation. Neverthelcflfe, itmay well be applied co 
confirmc thatevery adl,pf fincere, and unpartiall obedi- 
cnce,muft^come from a lively ,wcU-rooted,and foyeraigne 
faith. 

Chrift is the fountaine, and faith the mcanes of life. 
The power and originall of life is intirely rcfcrvcdto the 
Lord and'Prince of life i the Light and Life of men y the 

Author 



Whdt it is to live hy FaithjScc 



ty^Hthor ofeternallfalv4ti9H : But faith is the raiicall band 
on our partjW hereby we are tied unto Chrift, and live in 
him. The body hath its foule which enlives it; and fo 
hath the foule its foule whereby it hVes, and that is C^rtfi 
the qHickning fpinp. Take away the fou' e from the body, 
and earth becomes earth : fever Chrift and the fouIe,what 
is k but a dead carrion ? The members die if they be Sepa- 
rated from the Head, live fo long as they be con/oyned to 
iti Chrift is to his Church,and every living member of it, 
what the natarall Head is to the naturall members. And fo 
we live primarily and properly by Chrift, as by the foule 
and Head ; by faith fecondarilyjas by the Spirits,the band 
of foule and body ; or by Nerves andfirewcs, the ties of 
the Head and Members. looke as the leg or arme lives 
by proper iiiiewes, uniting them to the Head: fodoth 
every believer live in Chrift by a weUrooted,foveraignc, 
particular faith,wherebv hereceiveth Chrift, and is made 
one with him. Thus faith he himfelfe, fvho id the truth 
and the lifcy lam the refurreBio», asd the life : hee that 
believeth in me though he tveredead, yet Jhallhe live j and, 
I am the bread of life. _^hee that believeth in mee (hall never 
hunger ; and againe, As the Father hath life in himfelfe, 
fo hath hee given to the Sonne to have life in himfelfe. 
Thus fpeake the holy Scriptures of hiraj In it was life, 
and that life was the light of men ; When Chrifiy who is our 
life, Jhallapfeare, Our hands have handled the word of 
life^ Tor the life WM manifefied, and we have feene it, and 
be Are witnefe^andjhew unto you that eternall life, which was 
with the Fat her, and was manifeftedunto ti4. And this is the 
teftimony of thofc tlree heavenly and earthly witneftcs. 
That God hathgivtn to tis eternall life, and this life is in his 
Son\ He that hath the Son hath life^ and he that hath not the 
\Sot^ne,hath not life. Whatfoever grace we want, it is to 
be rcceivi-d from Chrift, who of God ts made unto ta wife- 
ddme, right eoufnep, fanBification, and redemption : and 
whatfoever grace is in Chrift for us, it is made ours by 
faith. And fo wc finde in divers paflTagcs of Scripture that 

O 2 he 



195 



Heb.5.9, 



X Cor. 1 5.4 «f. 



EpheC 1,22,23 
& 4. \6, 



loh 14.^, 
loh.ii.iy. 

Ioh.j.16. 

loh, 1. 4," 
Col.5.4. 

I Joh.i.»,3. 



I Ioh.f.ii,ii 

iCor.i.^c. 



y 



196 

lohti if.f. 
R.om.ii.19. 

Ephcr.5.17. 



what it is t6 live by Faith y^c. 



Rora.4.16. 
EpUef.i.8j9, 



10. 



EfayzS.i^. 
Rom. 1. 5. 



I Joh.f.4. 
Gal. 3. 1. 
Roin,4.zi. 
Hcb.ii.i I. 



he that hath faith, hath the Sonne ; and eternall life in him. 
This is lively reprefentcd unto us by thf Parable of .he 
Vine and the branches, that as the branch receives all the 
fap(whereby it lives and is fruitf uU) from the Vinc,fodo 
we from Chrift,being engrafted into him. 

Life then is from Chrift as the Author, Prince, and 
Fountaine : but we live by faith as it incorporateth us in- 
to Chrift, and recciveth him to dwell in our hearts So 
that wbatfoevcr we lend to faith, it redounds to the ho- 
nour of Chrift. Impoflible it is, that faith ftiould waxc 
proud towards her Lord, or infolent over her fellow fer- 
vants, challenging any thing of defert unto her feil-c No; 
faith receives all of grace as a poorc beggar,and altogether 
excludes the hatcfull law of boa'}ing. This is the nature, 
the place , the office of faith : for God hath ordained that 
life fliould be throu[;h faith, that it raight be of meerc 
and rich grace. And if the end, and meanes, appointed 
of God to lead thereunto, da well confent, then it cannot 
be, that faith fti ould lift up her felfe a ^ainft grace, or in 
any thing feeke her ownc praife, and not fhe glory of 
God. Among all the gifts of God there is none more ufe- 
full then faith : others are profitable for fomc few things; 
this is for this life and the life to come, for all parts and 
pnrpofes of our lives, in the ufc of it manifold, and rich 
every manner of way : But evermore it advanceth tbc 
grace of God, and caufeth man altogether to difclaime 
himfclfe,his ability, and worth. IPaith fervcth not onely. 
to >uftific,but to make us endure in all af flidions without 
making hafte ; The jafl liveth, in time of his afflid:ions 
hy faith ; He that lelieveth, mak^th not hajf-e. It doth 
workc in us,and guide the courfe of our obedience ; PTee 
^ have received grace and tyfpoftlejhif to the obedience 
' of faith, not onely in bdeeving the promife o£ the 
jGofpell, but the other part or word of command. It 
doth alfo prcvaile againft all Enemies; ThU u the 
\viBorie that overcommeth the rporld, even etir faith : 
I But in all this, it leaneth upon the grace of God, loo- 
' keth 



W^at it U to live by Faith^dcc, 



kcth to bis powcFjand truftethupon bis f aithfull promife. 

To live by Faith, is by faith in Cbrift to alTent and ad- 
here unto, and poflcfie the whole Word of God as our 
owncjinalleftatesand conditions; rcfting quietly upon 
his gratious and faithfull ^vomKc, to receive from his 
good hand all necdfull bleflings and comforts in fitteft 
fcafon • and in all good confcicnce yeelding our fel ves un- 
to his good picafurc in fincerejuniverfal, andcorftanto^ 
bcdierce. To live by faith is not only to believe in Chrift 
for falvatiop, or to believe throughout our life, that we 
fliall be faved in the life to comc^but alio to reft upon the 
grace and free favour of God, that we iliall have, what- 
Ibever is expedient to bring us fafely thither, given us 
freely by the Lord in this life,fo farre as hcknoweth it 
good for us. 

God hath made promife of all good things, more then 
we could aske or thinke, that no good thing (hall be 
wanting, that whatfoever becommeth fhall bee for 
our good : all which the Juft man poffeffeth by faith, 
and is as well faitisfied, when in temptations and trials he 
hath no meanes of hcipe, as if he had all that his heart 
could dcfire. To the burdened God hath promifcd eafe, 
refrefliing to the thirftie ; pardon to the penitcnr,comfort 
to them that mourne, perfect peace to them that waite 
upon the Lord ; afliftancc, comfort, deliverance to them 
that be tempted ; prefervatiora and protedion from evill, 
with comfortable fupplyof all bleflings tcmporall and 
fpirituall fo farre as ftiall be good : all thefe faith embra- 
cethjpofleflethjfecdeth upon,and fo reftcth contented and 
comfortcd,as if all helpe that could be devifed, were pre- 
fent.andcomfort in/oyed. 

The word of grace teaeheth us te deme nniodlinefe and 
worldly lufls^artdta livegedlyyiufilyy tmdfoberly in tht^prf- 
fent -ivorld : from this Word of command faith cannot be 
wholly turned afide by allurement or terrour, but reftcth 
upon God for ability ,and fwectly inclineth the,heart with 
delight and chcarefullncffe to follow after the Lord. 



O 3 



Thus 



197 



Wlat it ii to 
live by faith. 



Pfal,j4.9,i(j. 
Rom.8.2$. 



Matth.11,28. 

Icr.31.34, 
ECay as, i. 
Pro. 10. 1 8, 
Zach.j.8, 
I Corfcio.ij. 
Pfal.9l.z,j.& 
84. IX 1. 
EfiV43.i. 
Match, 6.3 3. 

Titus a, 1 2. 



198 



what it is to lively Faith, ^c. 



Hcb.ii.i,2j3j 
4.&C. 



IVlAtU t9he 
done, that we 
might live by 
jaith. 

lob Z2.«Ij%Z. 

Pfal.8j.8. 



' 



I. 



1 Pet. 1. 4. 



■ 



Pfal.ii^.ioj. 



Ioh.5.3p. 



Pro.6.si.z3. 



Thus to live by faithis firmely to relic u;jon ths Word 
ofGodiin all eftatcs and condiciois, with fall purpofe to 
be guided by it,untill the good things contained therein be 
fully accomplifhed. This is to be feenc in thathoiiourablc 
company of Worthies funmed up by the Apoftle,as pat- 
terncs of faith ; who in all ciUtes and ftraights whatfoe- 
ver they were brought into,in all temptations wherewith 
they were tried, and in all difficulties wtierein they were 
exercifed, yet fo lived by faith, that nothing could difmay 
them, muchlefie overthrow them. By whofe example 
we may Icarne, fo to reft upon Gods Word an ^ promife 
for all needful! helpe,a(Tiftance,comfort,and deliverance, 
what danger or difficulty foever befall us, that we be nei- 
ther difmayed with tcrrour,nor turne ^ afide with world- 
ly allurements, nor wearied with dclayes, nor faint in the 
combatc. 

Now for the attaining hereof thefe two things are 
carefully to be performed. 

Firft,to acquaint our felves familiarly with the Word 
of ©od, that we might have it in readineffe for direction 
and comfort. 

Secondly, toexcrcifc faith aright in the Word of 
God. :. : 

The Word of God is the ground of all our faith, wher- 
by we live,be directed, maintained, and upheld in all our 
trials. The promif es of mercy are as fo many legacies be- 
queathed us by our heavenly Farhcr,and by his Sonne Je- 
fus Chrifl, in his laft Will and Teftaraent: The Com- 
naandements are fo many diredlions to guide in the way 
,of blefledncfle, untill we be full partakers of the good 
things promifed : It is therefore moft neccflary and be- 
hovefull for us to fearch this Will and Teftament for all 
filch legacies as may concerne us : andtobinde this law 
continually upon h^ heart, that it might Icade keepc 
counfell and comfort us as occafion requires. Faith is the 
|lifeofourfoules; the Word is the ground, life, guide, 
, and moderator of our faith . If God fliail leade us into 
1 * the 



what ft is to live by Faith,6cc. 



the darke at any time, or bring us into any flraight, that 
we fee no way ofefcaping, or mcanes of rcliek, will it 
not be a great ftay and comfort to our foule, if then v. ce 
can call to minde the good Word of God, formerly laid 
up in ftore,when we can raife fuch hope of helpe in due 
time, as maj^ quiet and content us, till we doe enjoy in et- 
fecfl I he good defired ? When the heart is perplexed with 
thoughts, diftradled with feares, and unfctled w ith temp- 
tations; is it not agreatrefrefhing that we can call to 
mindethecommandementsof God,direfting what wee 
ir^uft doe or leave undqne, inftruding in the way of peace 
wherein onrfeet {hall never Humble ? If we would bee 
ready and skilfullpradlitioncrs in the great art of living 
by faith, we muL^ excrcife ourfelves in the Word of 
God, and get into our hearts and memories, at leaft, the 
principal' prcmifes and Commandements, that we may 
have thsm in readinefle for dir (5tion and comfort upon all 
occafions. Let the word ofChriji dwell in jot* richly in all 
wijedome. 

And here it is to be obferved, that befides cxpreffe 
Commandements and direfl: promifes generally offered, 
there be fpeciall promiles and Commandements by con- 
fequent, which w e are to note and make uf e of. As what- 
foever God promifeth to any one of his children, (not in 
any fpeciall t^r proper refpcd,only concerning fuch a per- 
fon and for ifuch a time, but) as a common favour be- 
lon.'ingtoall his children ; hat we may, and ought to 
receive as a promife made to usjThus the Apoftle difTwa- 
ding fri'^m covetoufnefle, applieth that promife to all the 
faithfull, which in fpeciall was fpoken unto lojluahjivill 
not leave thee^norforfake f ^^^.Whefoever we find that any 
of Gods people have prayed for any good thing, and have 
bin hearcfjif it were not bv fpeciall prerogative peculiar to 
them, we may take it as a prcmife to u>:. I fought the Lord, 
and he heard me : and delivered me from all my feare^ They 
looked unto him, and rvere lightned : and their faces were not 
aJhamed.Thii ^oere man criedydnd the Lord heard him^ and 
O 4 faved 



199 \ 



Pfal.54.1^, 



Ffal.ii5i,?4. 



Col. 5,1 5, 



,-*^ 



r'-y^ 



Heb.15.5. 



pral.54.4,5,6. 



200 



what it is to livebj F^l th,Scc, 



lam.f.ii. 



pral.9i.1j. 
Eray43.». 
z Cor.;}.8.7, 



Pkil.5.16.17. 
Pro. Z.JO. 



2. 

TleaSfsof 
Faith. 



favedhimoutof aBhiitrotthles, What favour God hath 
flicwcd unco any of his children, aecordin;^ to promife 
and covenant of grace, the fame may all that be in cove- 
nant withhim, expedl andloDk^ for. For all the faith- 
full have th: fame God to be their God, live aider th° 
fame covenant, and have interel> in the lame promifes of 
mercy. Thus lam^s exharting to patience in trouMc, 
alledgcth the example of /o^T^^ have -heard of the patience 
of ^o\iyandhave feemthe endofthe Lrrd, As for extra- 
ordinary favours, or deliverances, granted u^to fome 
pcrfons, by fpcciall priviledge. an t nt)t by vertue of com- 
mon covenant : we cannot promifc our felves the fame 
in particular from their example ; nor did the Lord vouch- 
fafc the fame to the lame perfons at all times; but as fuch 
peculiar mercies imply a common ground or reafon, they 
are unto us arguments of com^rTC ani incouragemcnt. 
God do:h not ordinarily fend his Angels to open the pri- 
fon doorcs, nor ftop the mouthesof Lions, nor quench 
the force of the fire for the prefervation of his people: but 
frona fuch extraordinary examples we may conclude, 
that God will be with us in the fire and in the water to 
deliver or comfort us, tofuccouror fupport us, that we 
fhall not be forfaken, much lefle overcome. Alfo in the 
practice of the fcrvants of God, we may learne our duty: 
for whatfoever they did upon common grounds and rca- 
fons, pertaining to us no lefTe then unto them ; that duty 
bclongeth unto us^^s well as unto tbem,and their example 
is for our imitation. Spcciall Commandemcnts, by pri- 
viledge given to fome peculiar perfons, belong not unto 
them, who have received no fuch warrant : but if the 
I immediate ground be common, the duty it fclfe rcacheth 
i unto us. 

I Bcingacquaintcd with the Word, tfwc would live 
j by faithj we muft excrclfe it aright therein, and that con- 
fiftcth in divers zdis. 

Firft, Paith doth firmely and univcrfel'y affent to the 
whole Word of God, and fct a dae price and value upon 

it< 



what u it to live by Faitl>,Scc. 



201 



ir.asttiatwhichcontamesthechiefe goodofMan. The 
Gofpcllisthatpcarleofprice.in companfon whereof the 
merchandifc of filver and gold are of no worth 

secondly, It ponders the Word ferioady, and treafures 
itupfafe. Earthly men keepc the conveyances and afti- 
rances of their Lands very circumfpeftly, lay up their bds 
and bonds, write upon then., know when they exp:re.and 
whattochalle.geby them. The promifcs of God unto 
the faithful! foule, areinftc^idot all affurances bils and 
bonds for lis livelihood, ™»«"^""' P™^^*""'/^^" 
ftance,deliverance, comfort and everMing hap^neffs: 
thercforeheiscatefuUtoview them often, lay them up 
fure, meditate upon their ftableneffe and certamty and 
caft wTth himfeli what profit and comfort they will bring 

in fitted feafon, ,, ,_ • .i. „.,„„£ ,i,» 

. Thirdly, Itpreferveth andkeepethm the way of the 

prom,fes,it p=rVwadeth,inciteth, aniftrengthens therein 

All the p oti.ifes of God arefree, h.s favours of meere 
grace ; but this free favour is in fpeciall bequea hcd unto 
fhe penitent, meeke, humble, upright, that waUie in the 
undefiled way, and doe none imqaity : and faith in the e 
protnifesexpcffing the Lords helpc al-fufticient indue 
feafon, carrieth a man forward in the path wherein hee 
{hall findcrefl: and peice, and wilt not be turned out of 
the right way. then which it acknowUdgeth none fafe or 

^'"omhly, It pU«.the throne of grace with earneft 
andconti/uall fuppUcations, '""^^""S *'f P^f^ihal 
cour according unto promife. Faith ^earkeneth what 
the Lord fpealeth, and fF^k"hbacke agame.n fer- 
vent groanes anddefires. !■: l'^* *= P7''"A*^=.°^„^, fi ' 
and therefore is bold to pray, and will not kecpe fi- 

"fWIv Tt looketh up direaiy unto God, his wife- 
do^iwe^ mercy, ardfaitbfJlneffe: If meanesbee 
prefem, faith beholdeth Gods hand m them ■■/j^'^^" 
be wanting,, the eye is lifted up unto the Lord, who 



Mat. I J, 4 5,4c 



Pfal. 11^. iji ' 
3- 



2 SArriij^.j. 



202 



prai-5.3. 



Pfal.ij. 



Meaxes to Jiir 
up our pelves to 
Uve by faith, 

I. 
Finds out thy 
imbelieje. 



what it PS to Uve hy Faith,SiC» 



can provide meantSj or worke witlout meanes and 
againft lEcanes, and moft certainly will pernor me what 
be hath promiied when it iTiall be for our good. C^fy \ 
voice /halt thou heare in the mornings Lord, in the \ 
morning will I orderly adJreJfe unto thee, and will looks 

OHt. j 

Sixtly, It refteth quietly obff rving the eflfcds of Gods : 
promifes, and triurnpheth before the viftory. I have j 
trufiedin thy mercy , my heart fljall tejoyce tnthy falva- j 
tion. But otthele more at large in the particulars fol- j 
lowing. ! 

Now for the better ftirring up of our jfelves to live by 
faith. 

Firft, We mud find, and ferret out the Infidelity, that 

Inrketh in our bofomcs ; condemnc it,and make it odious. 

Ah,h0w is my heart fallen by unbelicfe ? Whac a mafic 

of infidelity harbourcth in my bread ? O Lord, I am 

grofTcly ignorant of thy waies, dou':>cfull of thy truth, 

diftruftfull ofthy power and good >cfre,difobedient to thy 

Commandement. Thou hall given rare and excellent 

promifes in thy holy Word ; but I enquire not after them, 

re/oycenotinth^m, cleave not unto them in truth and 

ftedfaftneffe^fettle not mine heart upon ti < m, make them 

not mine owne, keepe them not Idfe, that I may know 

what to challenge by them, prize them nor according to 

the worth and value of the good promifcd Becaufe by a 

civill faith men believe men, therefore they feeketo get 

their fecurity, and \i they have a man of credit his word 

for what Was defperate,they are glad; If they have bonds 

orfpecialtits, they boxetbemupjthfcy know when they 

expire, what to challenge by vertue of them, they will 

do nothing that may be pre judiciall to themfelves therein. 

But as for the promifes of life made in thy Word, I feeke 

them not, build not upon them, hide them not carefully 

in my heart, cafi: not fcrioufly with my iclfc what good I 

may afluredly looke for by vertue of them, keepc them 

not continually in thought to cut off ail carnall reafonings 

and 



what is it to live by Faith, ^c. 



20S 



? • 



and dfftradlions, am not wary to prevent what may bring 
prejudice to my foulc and ftate. Thou thrcatneft in thy 
Word, but I do not fearc, am not careful! to decline fin. 
Who is fo bardie as to thrufl: his finger into the fire ? Buc 
I have fufFered my felfe often to be carried afide with 
lufts through unbelief e. How many wicked mo; ions 
have I entertained ? what fintull paflions have Inouri- 
ilicd ? how vainly ,ra{li'y, wickedly have I rpoken,though 
I have bin warned by thy W ord of threatning to the con- 
trary ? True and righteous are thy preccptSj according to 
which thou haft commanded me to walke : But I have 
followed the cuftomcs, examples, and traditions of men, 
the fuggeftions of Satan, and allurements of the World. 
Luftand paffionhave oft come betwixt my heart and thy 
holy precepts^ whereby I am turned afide from the ftraite 
way of peace. I can find fmall relifli and favour in the 
Word of life, I digeft it not, feed not upon it^ hunger not 
after it, am not changed into the nature of it.I receive not 
the trurh,or it abides not in me for fubftantiall nourifli- 
menr : I belecvc no further then I fee^fehrc no more then 
I feele,ftart afide in temptation. 

The Symptomcs of unbeliefe arc evident. From this 
root fpringeth that unmeafurablc deadneffe that prefTeth 
downc. Ifaraan of authority threaten with rackc or 
gibbet, I quake and feare : but when I heare the /udge- 
mcnts of God denounced againft ray fins, lam fcarce mo- 
ved at all. 

From this arifcth impatience, murmuring, difcontenr, 
unquictncfTe, when outward things arc wanting ; For 
did the heart cleave faft unto God, it would reft quiet in 
his promifcjif all ether things were lacking. 

Selfe-confidence, reftinginmeanes, and leaning upon 
them, as Iands,richcs,friends , &c. are efteds oi unbeliefe. 
He that rejoyceth in Chrift Jefus can Have no confidence 
in thcflcfti.A.s wc grow dowc, defying our wifedomc, 
and all ftrength we ca ^ make ; fo doth faith in our great 
God grow up ; as we fwell or be puffed up in conceit of I ^<^'9'^i • 

our ' 



Symptomes of 
Wibeliefe. 



Pfal.7 8.ip,i 

£2. 

Nu^.T4.a7. 

Rom. 10.^. 
Jer i7.f. 
Pfal.40.4.& 

J2.7. 

Phil.j I, 



I 



204 



Vrhat it is to live by Fdth,^c» 



Pro.ij.i^. 



Ioh.i2,4j.& 
Mar.8. 16317. 



our wifdomc or (Irergth, fo doth faith languifli or decay. 
So mucli as the heart Ihyeth upon the creature, it is by fin 
with-drawnc from the Creator, But my heart is much 
poyfoned with fcifc-fufficiercic s I fecle my fclic apt to 
leane upon mine ownc devices, to prefumc upon mine 
owne ftrength, and fo wickedly to depart from God. If 
mcanes be at hand I grow fecure ; forgctting,that further 
then God doth fend forih his Word, they can doe no- 
thing. Ifmeanesbe wanting, I faint, or at leaft, am 
greatly diftra61:ed, not remembrir g that it is all one with 
Godtofavc with many as with few, with fmall or no 
meanes as great, If I enjoy the things I would, I thinkc 
much upon the mesnes, afcribe little to Gods bleffing : 
my affedions do workc more lively on this or that which 
fell out (as men fpeake) more luckily, then on the blcfling 
of God,which is all in all. In any matter of weight con- 
cerning livdi-hood cr flate, I am ready to plod what 
friends I can make, what meanes be prefcntjWhat likeli- 
hoods of good fucceffc, and here I reft, not fecking to the 
Lord, though all judgement come from him^ But if this 
or that requifitc (in my judgement) cannot be obtained, 
though I be never fo diligenr,feeke never fo earnefilyjftill 
I diftruft and fufped the event, laying in heart, that it 
cannot prove well. And when my defire is accompli- 
flied, the meanes arc ftill in mine eye, I thinke my felf^ 
indebted to fuchor fuch friends, never able to requite 
their kindnefle; when the chiefe caufe, upon whom 
all things depend, is much forgotten, not afFedlionate- 
ly rcmembred. In trials I am very tottering, and like 
a poorc creeple, who leaneth upon his crutches, eafily 
brought to the ground, when fenfiblc helpes are taken 
away, 

CarnalldelightSjCOvetoufnclTe, lovcofpraife, double 
diligence about earthly things, and cxceffive care : thefe 
are cvill accidents of this difeafe. Did we poffelTe the fpi- 
rituall comforts of the Word, the heart could neither co- 
vet, nor take pleafure in the tranfitory things of this life. 

Did 



Vr^at is it to live hy Faith, dec. 



Did we affurcdly believe that our Heavenly Father will 
provide for us, we would not difquict cur felvcs with 
troublefome thoughts about living maintenance, and 
fucccffTc of our labours.- But^ab, how is nay heart taken 
up with diftrafting cares, drawnc away with carnall 
pleafures, and afpiring dcfires after great things. If riches 
increafcjlreloyccinthem; If troubles or croflfescome 
on, my head is wholy bufied about them ; I can keepe no 
meafijre in cafting, difcourfing, contriving how things 
willgoc. The many thoughts that Ifpend about thcfc 
things to no purpofe, upon no occafion, doc more then 
fufficicntly convince the earthly diftempcr of my heart. 

Partiall obedience, indulgence to any finne^ flcight- 
ncffe in the performance of holy duties, fand raflineffe in 
the undertaking of ordinary works without feare, reve- 
rence, and due confideration,is the cvill fruit of anbcliefe. 
For the flrength oi faith is uiaiformCj it fighteth againft 
all finnc; fecdeth upon the dainties that God hath prepa- 
red for them that love him, and tcacheth in naturall and 
civill anions to hold Cbriftj that his Spirit may guide us 
in the doing of them. But I have beene too favourable to 
boifterous paflions, evill lufts, vainc rovings, idle fpec-- 
cheSjuegledt of holy duties. I have prayed without in- 
tention, fervcncie, or care to fpeed: j have heard the 
Word, but not attended unto it with diligence, not la- 
boured to get it into poffeflion, nor to be changed in- 
to the nature ®f it. I have fcaftcd without feare or thank-^ 
fulneffc ; I have laid me downe to flcepe and rifen againe,} 
not minding the promifc of God, who givcth fleepc to 
his beloved, not acknowledging him 'who is my life, 
and the length of my daies, nor fearing the grin that 
is feti for m.ec in. every ,crcacurc an4 bafinelfe, pfi tibis 

Whatfliail I fay ?0 Lord, I have finned againft thy 
goodi.elTej power, mercy, and truth J againft the Media- 
tion and blood of Chrift. He that believes nop in God, 
fnakes bim « lUr^ then which what can bd more rtproch- 

: , ... full? 



305 



I lohn J. 10. 



"■'•^ 



SSrfWWRSSB 



20 6 



what it is to Iwc hy Fatthyd^c, 



Tit. I. If. 
Efay 7.^, 
Num.ao.i 
Luk,i,zo. 



I, 



Keb.i© 38,39 



full? He thatrefteth not upon Chrift, maketh his 61oud 
of neneeffedl, then which what is more abominable ? 
To fearc the threats of Man, to reft on his Word,to obey 
his Commandements, when the will and pkafure of 
<3odisnegle6led; what is this, but to rob God of his 
glory, and fet up Man inhis roome or ftced ? If a great 
Man (hould threstcn, would I not be carefull to decline 
his wrath? Shall my God threaten, and Ibefecureand 
carele{re?If I have a mans word or bond that is of worth, 
I write upon the matter as if I had it : Shall I not joy- 
fully reft in the word, feale, and oath of my God ? If a 
Man of great place fhould be asked a paw re, and not cre- 
dited on bis word, hewouldtakeitincvill part : what a 
(hameisit, that I fhouid not believe God further then I 
have his caution ? The fervants of Noblemen attend on 
their Lords pleafare at an Inch, come at their call, goe at 
their command, do every thing exidtly that is given them 
in charge : W hat wretchedncfle is this in me, that I have 
obeyed the Lord by the halves, beene fleighty in his wor- 
ship, moft negligent where all dihgencc is no more then 
duty, moft praife-worthy. AsIhavediihonouredGod, 
fb I have hurt mine owne foule. If it were notior unbe- 
Iiefe,nothing could harme me; this doth all the mifchiefe:' 
for it rc/edeththe medicines, which taken, would cure 
all maladies ; and pulleth off Gods plaifters, which lying 
on would falve our mifcrics % it defilcth our beft workes, 
doubleththc bitterncfleof crofles^ pulleth downe many 
judgements upon us,difinabletb in the combafe agairift Sa- 
than, is the nurfe of fpirituall idleritflc, ahdhindreth the 
fweetnefle ot all holy duties. It were j'uft with thee, 
Dearc Father, to caft me off for ever, and give me over 
to the vanity iDf mine tinbelieVing heart. I have 
drayvne backe from thee by infidelity, cleaving to the 
lulls of theflefli and allurements of the {Wotld, trufting 
in vaine devices ; and thou migbteft Juftly forfake me 
utterly for this mine hypocriticall flatting afidc from thy 
teftimonies. O Lord, I am not more full of infidelity by 

nature 



I 



what is it to Iwe hy Fdthy^c, 



nature, then af my felfe unable to remove it : untothee 
thereforc,do I lift up my foulc ; G tame in me the fierce- 
nefle of infidelity, and teach me to beheve as thou haft 
commanded: thenfliall I cleave unto thee inlcparably, 
waitc confidently on thy {alvation, and fcrve thee cheare- 
fully as long as I live. Thus are we to finde out, and make 
infidelity odious. 

Secondly j We muft labour to fee the n£celiity,and pre- 
cioufnedc of faith j and thefe iczriQ will make a man 
holdhard, ere he part with it. A man that hath a great 
charge, his whole ftate about him, will as fooncloiehis 
life, as part with his treafure. O f what excellency and 
ufc is this grace of faith, which fubdueth paffions, over- 
corn meth allurements, maketh things, impoffiblctothe 
flefh, caficanddclightfome ; inableth to ftand faft when 
we are buffeted by Satan, lifteth up the head amidft all 
thefurges oftcmptation,remaineth viftorious mall com- 
bats, raifcth us up when we are laid along,.and our wea- 
pons beaten on our Heads; knittcth the heart faft to the 
heavenly Commandements, quickcneth m deadne{re,and 
holdeth the Lord faft when he leadeth us mtothe darke. 
Who would not prcferre the cuftodie and increase of fuch 
a grace before life it felfe ? Nay , what is our life without 
it ? If faith live in us, we live blefledly, whatfoever mife- 
ry compaffcth us aboutj if faith deeay,we die-if it die, we 

perilh* r. j j- 

Thirdly,Wc muft confider whom we tru[t,and medi- 
tate on the grounds of faith (to wit) the grace, power, 
goodneflV, truth, and unchangcablenefle of God : for this 
wiUflrcngth^n bcliefe.We muft confiderthe promifes of 
God, that we may fee what bis good will and pleafure 
is, what a Fatherly care of our welfare he hath, and not 
oncly how able but how willing alfo beis tolielpe and 
fnciour Ui ; what promifes he hath made, and how faith- 
ftillhc is in'performance, for his ownc names fake,and of 
free undeferved love. The Mother of unbeliefe is igno- 
rance of God: his faithfullneffe, mercy, and power. 
' Tho[e 



207 



i.See thenecef. 
fiiy and preci- 
oufnejfz of 
Faith. 



?. M edit ate 9n 
the grounds of 
Faithi 



20< 



Pfal.9.10 

z Tim I. IS. 
Hcb.ii.ii. 



WJ^aP it is t6 li've by Faith,Scc, 



4. Reeling 

wea,\nejfe of 
faith loo\e. oh 
Chrifi. 

Heb.i2.i,». 

5 Pray for the 
ffirit oj faith. 



Thofe that ki*ow thee, wiUtrHflin thee. This confirmed 
T4»/, ^yihraham, Sarah in the fai^h. lk»0Tfs> rphom I have 
believed, and that he is able to ks^pe thap I have committed 
unto him,Hntill that day. He isfmthfttUvfiho hath fromifed^ 
andablealfoto performe. The free promifcs of the Lord 
are all ccrtaine, his Comtnandements right and good, the 
recompence of reward ineftin:iably to be valued above 
thouftndsof gold and filver : Truft therefore in the Lord, 
O my foule, and follow hard after him.Thou haft bis free 
promifcjwho never failcd,whohath promifed more then 
pofllbly thou CGuldft aske or thinkc, who hath done 
more for thee then ever he promifcd, who is good and 
bountifull to the wicked and ungodly : thou doeft his 
worke, who \^ able, and afliiredly will beare thee 
out ; there ii a Crownc ot glory propolcd unto thee 
above all conceit of merit : ftickc faft unto his Word, 
and fuftcr nothing to divide thee from it. Reft upon his 
protmfes, though he fceme to kill thee; cleave unto his 
ftatuccs, though the flcfti lull, the World allure, 
the Divell tempt by flatteries or thrcatnings to the 
contrary. 

Fourthly, When wcfeclcour faith weakc, wemuft 
lookc up to Chrift, the beginner ani finifher of faith 
in MS, A fainting body will tafte fome thing that is cor- 
dial! and reftorative : and a tainting foule muft baite it 
fclfc with looking to Jefus,who is our cordiall and refto- 
rativc. 

Fiftly, Faith is a grace that is given from above, and 
commeth dovvnc from the Father of lights, unto 
whom we muft fly by fervent prayer, humbly begging, 
that he would by his Spirit both rcveale unto us, what 
be thofc prctious promifcs, which he hath made unto 
his people, and give us wifedome rightly to judge of 
them, and firmely to receive them in every eftate ; and 
above all, to move onr hearts fo to believe them, that wc 
may aflurc our felves of all needmll hclpe in due time, 
feeing God alifiitficicnt and faithfuU hath promifed it, 

and 



touching the from fes off ar don and forgi'veneJfe,8cc, 

and waite upon him in the way of his Commandements. 
Mercifull Father, it is my finccredcfircjand un faired rcfo- 
lution to draw nigh unto thec,and put my truft in thy mer- 
cies for evermore. Butof my fclfc Ihsve noabihty to 
(land in faith, ortofolLw hard after thy Commande- 
menrs ; I am full of doubtings,whcn I can fee no meanes 
to put me in hope of helpe, and ready to finke downe in 
defpaire; upon every fmall occafion I amready toftagger 
and flip afidc. Take pittic upon me, O Lord, for tl^y 
mercy fake, for I flic unto thee for helpe. Thou haft com- 
manded mc to believe, hold me by thy right hand that I 
flirinke not ; reveale thy promifes unto my undcrftan- 
ding, givemee a found judgement, eftablifh me in the 
faith more and more, unite my heart clofc unro thee, 
that all the darts of the Divellmay fall oft, and not bee 
able to wound my confcience, Thou haft given me to fee 
my weakf neffe in faith, and to bevvaile it ♦, to fee the ne- 
ceflity and excellent ufe of faihjand to defirc it : give mc 
alfo ftcdfaftly to believe, according to the riches of thy 
grace,that I may glorifie thy name. 



CHAP. II. 

fyhat it u to five hy faith in particular touching the 

promifes of pardon andforgivene^e^ and , 

how tofiirre up our f elves 

thereunto, 

k 

TH E ufe of faith, which is as large as the Word of 
God, muft be diftinguifhed according to the parts 
' and fcverall branches of it, promifes, Coraraanderaents, 
thrcatnings. By promifes underftand all thofe declarati- 
ons of Gods will, wherein he fignifies in the GolpcU 
iwhat good he will freely beftow. And thefe be either 
Spiritual! or Temporally concerning this life,or the life 
P to 



209 ( 



JVUt tie pre- 
mifes heyand 
the hjndes tier- 
of. 






^i^' 



fins. 

DeiK.j 0.1,1. 
I Rcg.8.3 5. 



Icr.j.ii, 
31.34. 



Thiipromife it 

free. 

& 44.12. 
Hor.14.4. 

Mich.7.18, 

Hcb.g.ia. 
Jer.3T.54. 
Dcut»i,8. 
Num.14.18. 

Tet ohtainei 



310 1 what it is to live bj Faith in farticdar 

to come; ohhings (Imply neccffary to falvation, or of 
things good in them felves, but notalviraies good for us : 
all which are rcccivedjpofleffed, and injoyed by faith, ac- 
cording as they be promifed of Godjcither with,or with- 
out limitation. 

Amongfl: fpirituall promifes abfolutely necc{rary,with- 
out which there can be no falvation, the firft and chicfe ii 
concerning pardon or forgivencCfe of finnes and Juftifica- 
tUpmifeof tion. God of his rich grace and mercy in Jefus Chrift 
■fnrjivenefc of I joth make offer of free and full forgiveneffe of all finnes 
to every burdened, thirftie and penitent foule. Let the 
wicked for fake hU vay^ And the untight eom man his 
thottghts: and let him returne Unto the Lord, and he will 
have mercy upon him, and to our God for he will abundantly 
pardon. Returne thou backe-jliding Ifrael, faith the Lord^ 
and I will not caufe mine anger to fall upon you: for lam 
mercifully faith the Lord^and I will not keepe mine anger for 
tverjwillcleanfe them from all their iniquity yVf here by they 
have finned again ft me, and I will pardon all their iniquities 
whereby they have fmned^andwhereby they have tranfgreffed 
again/} me. 

This promifc is made of free and undcferved mercy, 
not for any merit tbat is,or poflibly could be in ns. /, 
even I am hee that blotteth out thy tranfgrtffions for mine \ 
ownefake and will not remember thy Jinnet, I will love them 
freely, for mine anger is turned away from him.rvho u a God 
like unto thee^ that par done th ini^fity and pajfeth by the 
tranfgreffion of the remnant of his heritage f he retaineth not 
his anger for ever y becaufe he delighteth in mercy. T will 
be mercifull to their unrighteoufneffe, and their finnes and 
their iniquities will I remember no more. Be mercifull, O 
Lord, unto thy people Jfratl^whom thou hafirecieemed,^]Xi 
when wehearc of grace,we muft remember Chrift,in and 
thnugh chtifi through whom God is gratious unto us. Chrift is the 
m^. Lambe of god, which taketh away the finnes of the world: 

°^**^* ' and this great benefit of forgiveneffe of finnc is plentiful- 
ly proclaimed unto us mifcrable finncrs, in and through 

him. 



touchingthefromifesoffardon dndfergi'venej[e,^c, 

him. Thus itiirvritteft.AndthusitkehovedChriji tofuffer, 
and to rife againe from the dead the third day ; art^ that re- 
femanceani Remijfton of,fmnes Jhotild hee preached a- 
Vicmgali nations ^bepinMirig at Ieru{alem. 'Bee it kpovene 
UKto yoH therefore^ UHen and brethren^ that through 
this L^larii (meaning Chrift) is preached unto jou the 
forgivenejfe effmnes. Now then we are Amha^adors for 
Chrifly although God did hefeech you by U4 ; we pray yon 
in Chrifs fieedy bee yee reconciled to Cjod. Hereunto 
agrceth that invitation of our Saviour ; Come unto me alt 
yee that labour, and are heavie laden^ and I will give yon 
refi. 

This promifc of grace is received jpo^Tcfled and cn/oycd 
by faith alone,but by an operative and lively faith. To him 
give all the Prophets witnefff that through his Name,who~ 
(oeverbelieveth in him^Jhal I receive nmijpon ofJinnes.And 
by him althat believe areju(lijied from al thingsjfrom which 
yee could not be jufiified by the Law of Moles. Though 
faith be accompanied with other graces, yet Man h'veth 
by it alonc,notby it and other parts of grace as joynt fup- 
portersjin as much as by it alone he trufts in Gods mercy 
offered in Chrift, wholy relying on it, not partly on 
mercy, partly on rightcoulncffe inherent ; We are jufiified 
fredyb) hisgrace^ through the redemption that is inlefm 
Chrifi: whom ^od hath fet forth to be a propitiation through 
faith in his blood^to kclare his righteoufneffefer the remijfion 
ofjlnnes that are pinfi. The Scripture fore/eeing that God 
wouldjufiifiy the Heathen through faith ^ preached before the 
GoJpeSunto Abraham, /2y»»^, In thee Jhall all nations 
be blefed. And thus the Lord hath ordained for divers 
reafons. 

Firft, this promifc is of faith, that it might bee of 
free grace, which cannot ft^nd with tht dignity of 
workes. If it bre by grace ^ then is it no more ofworks:ot.hef' 
wir^ grace is no more qrace. 'But if it be of worlds ^ then u it 
m more grace, otherwife worke is no more wor\e. Pa'.th 
anfwcr> the , promifc, and receive the pardon o!^ 

P 2 cira*^ 



\ 



2 II 



Luk.i4.4M7 
K&s 13.38. 

iCor.j.io. 
Mat.ii,i8. 



And received 
anipojfe^ed 
hy faith. 
Ads 10.4}, 
Ads I J. {9. 
v^»i hy it alont 
Rom, 1. 17, 
Gal.z.i6.flc 
5.11,84. 



Rom.j,Z4,»j:,' 
z6. 



Gal. J. 8. 
Gen. t i.j, 
Gen.a5.6, 



I. 

Rom. 4.1^, 

Rom.iT.tf, 



^ jr *■ I -frr 



21 



what it is to live by FmthinfArtictdar 



2. 



3» 



Rom.4.t5^ 

Eph.8.S,9,io. 

iCor.i.jOjji 



It U Mctffhry 



grace as a poorc begger, utterly denying all worthincCfe 
in the fub/e^ ; wficreas other graces, had they bcenc 
1 afligned to this office, would have challenged foincthing 
to them (elves. 1 

Secondly, it is of Faith that it might be ftedfaft and fure 
to all the feed : why fo ? becaufe the promt fe is ofgracc. 
Faith and grace doe fweetly confear, mutually uphold 
each other. Faith leaneth upon grace alone : and grace 
or mercy is promifed freelyjthat we might believe ; and 
vouchfafed to him that doth believe and accept it. With- 
out faith therefore the promife doch fall. And if the 
promife of remiffion of finnes did depend upon any 
worthinefTe in us to receive it, wee fhould not oncly 
waver and be uncertaine, but even u tsirly defpaire of 
everfpeeding. 

Thirdly, that onely is the true manner of Ju^ification, 
which fliuts forth all boafting in the dignity of our 
workes. But faith excludes all boafting in our felvesj and 
teachsth us to glory in the Lord our right eoufneflc 
Rom, J. £f jii8.' Whtre is boaping then ? It is excluded. By rvkiAt Larp ? Qf 
workes ? Nay, but by the Lave of faith. Therefore we con- 
clude, that a man is'r^jiified hy faith, mthottt the deeds of 
the Law, For if Abva.h;simwf re jftBified by wark^f, he hath 
voheresf to glory but not before God, For ivhat faith the 
Scriptfire^hhrah^m believed God, and it was counted unto 
himfor right eoMfne\[e, 

As God invites us to receive the promife of pardon 

to reeks pardon I offered in the Gofpell, fo it is ncccffary that we embrace 

of fin by faith.., jt by a lively faith. For in our fehes webefinfullandcur- 

I fed,no way able to make any fatisfaflion, whereby wee 

I might be delivered, and remiffion which is of grace, can 

be o: tained by no other meanes,but onely by faith in Je- 

fus Chrift.7'<? him thatvoorketh not, bni believeth an him 

th<itjufiifieththe ungodly, his faith is connted for ri^hteonf- 

nejfe ; even as David alfo defer ibeth the blefednejje of the 

(J^lANy Hntorohom C^oi imfUteth righteoufne^e without 

rporkes • Sayings Slewed are. trhey y^hpfe.i»iqmies Anforgi- 



Rom. 4.?, ^,7, 
Pfal ji.i.. 



touching thefromifesoffardm and forgi'veneJle^^c, 

vett, and who fe ftnnes are covered ; *BUJfedis the L^Ian to 
whom the Lord will not impute finne. Faith goeth dircifWy 
unto Chriftj that by him wc might be Juftificd, and em- 
braccththe promifcs of God concerning Juftification, 
which h the manner by which alone God hath ordained 
to juftific us. No man can be feeire according to the hope 
of eternall lifcjunlefle he be juftificd from fin by the free 
grace of God : for fins, not blotted out by thf free par- 
don of grace, fcparate betwixt God and us, and hide his 
face from us.Not hj workes ofrighteoufne^e^rthich we have 
done, bat according to his mercy he fnved /%f,&c. That ^elng 
jufiifiedhj hii grace, we (houU he m^de heires according to the 
hope of eternall glory, ^\xt no pardon is obtain€d,unIefr(g the 
promife of pardon be received by faith. Faith in the pro- 
mifcs of mercy, that wc might be acquitted from finnc, 
and accepted as Juft and righteous, doth commend and 
maintaine the glory of Gods grace intire, and in this re- 
fped alfo it is the more neccflary . As a penitent malcfa- 
d:or,if he were to pleade his caufe before the Prince him- 
feife, would notftand upon termes of innocencic or pre- 
lent inregrity, becaufe he had his pardon under fealc, fee- 
ing that was given him to pleadc for mercy, not for/u- 
ftice: io the faithful! foulc relyeth upon the free mercy of 
©od,and promife of pardonprodaimed indefinitely to all 
burdened and penitent finncrs, and fcaled t© every belee- 
ver in particular by the pier ges of the Spirit ; not upon 
thofe fanftified graces which arc given unto him, that he 
might bee qualified and fitted to plead for grace and 
mercy. 

The a(fls of Faith concerning this promife of forgivc- 
nefTc be divers. 

Firfl:, it generally belicveth the promife truejand there- 
by difcerncs, that fin is pardonable through grace. The 
knowledge of this, that our finnes may bee pardoned, or 
that there is mercy with the Lord to cover fin,is a worke 
of faith. For wbatfoever cannot bee conceived or found 
out by fence or realon, that is manifeftcd by revelation, 
P 3 and 



213 



3.12. 



Ifay Jp.a. 
Tit.j.s,7. 



The a&stffaitb 
about promifes 
of pardon. 

Pfal.ijo,4, 
Luk.15.x8. 



214 



what ft is to live h^ FmhinfMcidar 



I Pet. I, I i. 
Rom. 1 5,2 5, 

I Bphcf.i.8j9 



. and affcnted unto or judged true and ccrtainc by faitb,or 
j clfc it rcmaines as a nayftery uaknownc. When the Apo- 
Heb.ii.i. "' ' ^^ defincSj/iiir^ to he the evidence ofthingi not [eene ; doth 
i he not intimate, tbat things anfccnc to fcnfe or naturall 
^ rcafon, are difcovered and made evident oncly by faith ? 
But that God will pardon iniquity, tranfgrcflion and fin, 
is a truth that can never be comprehended by the light of 
nature : flefh and bloud hath not revealed it unto us. Su- 
pernacurall truths which exceed all humane capacity,can- 
not be difccrned or received by any power of nature : But 
that God will be mercifull to our finncs, is a truth fuper- 
naturall, hidden from the Angels thcmfelvesjuntill it was 
revealed in the Gofpell. Who hath knowne the Minde of 

^.. God, or becnc acquainted with the myfteriesof his wife- 

' Ifay 40.i3»M«j ^omc ? In the dayes offecurity,whi!eltmenflecpe in fin, 
without allfenceof evillj or knowledge of Gods Juftice, 
it is an ea{ie matter to fay, God i'i merciful!, Chrift died 
for (inners : But when the confcience is awakened with 
Gea.4..ij. the terrors ot (Sods wrath, and the fearefu'l fight of fm ; 
Mat'th'.zr.?. the experience both of wicked men, and of the Saints 
Pfal.7 7.^,738. of God can tedific, that it is adi^cult thing to lookc 
beyond the cloud of juftice, and, contrary to the naturall 
fcntcnce of confcience, comminations qI the Law, and 
prefent feeling, to believe,that there is fbrgivencfTe with 
God. 
j^. Secondly, faith ftirrcth up carneft defires and longings 
to be made partakers of this mercy of Goi, and to be rc- 
frcfihed with his gracious and free favour. All holy and 
1 fervent defires arc both kindled and nourifhcd by it, A^ our 
alfcnt to the Divine and heavenly promifes is more or leffe 
I firmc,certaine,ab{olHte & cvidcnt^fo are our defires more 
j or leffe fierie,conftant,unfatiable,yea inrefpc(3: of heaven- 
' ly things unquenchable : As faith ianguiQiCth,thefe faint: 
; as faith encrcafetb, thefe gather ftrength. And no mar- 
3oh.4. loi I ^^^^ ^or appetite followeth knowledge, and defirc is an- 
fwcrable to that certaine and clcare judgement, that we 
have of the ncceffity,and worth, value and dignity of the 
objed 



touching thefromifesoffardon and forgi'venejfejdcc 

ohjcd: apprehended. Now faith difcovereth both the nc- 
ccflity and excellency of the good, certainly contained in 
the word ©f proinife, (which ad: of faith is Signified by 
the opening or piercing of the care) and ferioufly mcdi- 
tatcth upon the fingular benefits offered therein, and 
fo raifeth the heart unceflantly to hanger and thirft after 
them. 

And thefc ieCrcs wil be the greater and more conftant, 
the more faith is excrcifed in the meditation of the good- 
nefie^frecncflc, and certaintie of thefc promifcs. Many 
things are negleded which arc moft pretious, oncly be- 
caufc the value ofthcmlyeth hid, or is not apparent, or 
the pre/udiceof fenfible, but deceivablc experience doth 
overfway. No marveilc then, if the pardon of fin bee 
neglerfVed, though the benefit be probably knownc,when 
itis bur fleightly thought upon, fupcrficially locked into, 
cuftomc having inured the Minde by long pradiicc to the 
purfuite of earthly delights or profi69,wherewith it is be- 
lotted. But with the true believer it fareth much better, 
for heefeeth how happy it fhould bee with him, if his 
finnes were covered, and his foulceafcd of the burden 
of them, ("how ever it fare with him in matters of this 
\W)rld) and withall, hee pond creth the truth and faith- 
fuUnefle of the promife made of meere grace, whereby 
theheartisftirredup,to def^reand long after this blcf- 
fing, above all good that can l>e imagined. And yet, fuch 
is our corruption, wcmuftoft l?reathe our fclves in the 
meditation of thcfe things, or e|fc wcc (hall findc oar 
cfteemeofpardon to decay, and 0ur defire to grow cold 
and dull. 

Thirdly, It draweth us forward to feekc mercy of 
God. The wife Merchant iirft difcovers the pearle of 
price, and then feeketh to get pofleflion of ir. The de- 
fircofa believer is not a dead or fluggiih wifli, Oh, that 
my finnes were pardoned, when hec never ftirreth up 
hiflfifelfe to receive the promife : But it is a deliberate de- 
fire, of abcHcfit knowne,poffibly to be attained,attcnded 
P 4 with 



215 



Mat r 3.4 5,4^. 



"^ ni 



2l6 



Matth.13.44. 



Pfal.38.18. 



Luk.15.i8. 



Sain.i6. ii. 



what it is to live bj F4th in parti cdar 

with muchcomfort,and freely promifed by him that can- 
not lie which is ever accompanied with proportionable 
care to get and pofTeflc the bicfling defired; Faith wUl not 
fufFeramantofmoothcrorconccalchis dcfires, nor de- 
fires themfclves to die : bui it prcfcrveth and kindlerh 
defires, and conftraineth with an holy violence to lay 
them open before the Lord. 

Thus by faith a aian comracth freely to renounce his ti- 
tle and intercfl: in the world, and to part with any things 
that might hinder mercy. The wife Merchant having 
found the fear ie of price, for joy thereof goeth an^fetteth ok 
that he hath I not as ifhe could merit pardon, but that he 
might be capable of pardon, and make a faichfull plea for 
mercy. 

To this end alfo hee humblcth hinafelfe, before the 
throne of graccjn true and unfained confefTion of his. fins, 
freely judging and condemning himfelfe before Godjwith 
a broken and contrite heart, / will declare mine iniqmtie^ 
I will heforriefor mjjinne. So the prodigall fonne com- 
min^ home to his Father, doth bewaile his former Ic wd- 
nz^S'^ym^i^ have finned againH Heaven and before thee, 
Pharaoh and Sauly being evidently convinced of fin, may 
be conftrained in confcience to make fome confefTion ft> 
men, * I have finned this time, andthe Lord is righteopu : I 
have played the foo/e, and erred exceedingly. ^ t^habhnm- 
blcth hinafelfe before God, and putteth on fackeclotb, 
in hope to prevent the temporaU evill, denounced againft 
him and bis houfe : But the confeifion of true and unfai- 
ned faith is free and voluntary ,^ in hope offrce pardon and 
forgivenefTc.: Temporaric believers may make confcflion 
of their fins with fome griefe and forrow, but as they 
confefle their fins, fo they believe : their confeffion is 
maimed, and their faith fuperficiall ; they renounce not 
their intereft in the world, which infcrres the willing 
choice of fome inferiour goodjbefore the favour and love 
of Godj^nd their beliefe of the promifes is {hallow, and 
fubordinate totheir bafe and earthly palKons .But the con- 

feflion 



tOHchmg thefromlfes offurdon andforgivemjfe,d>cc, 

feflionoffaithunfaincdjisheartyandfincercioynedwith 
a true detcftation of all fin, as that which hath, and 
would make reparation betwixt God and him. ii it bee 
not renounced by him, and pardoned of God. And to 
them that confeffe their fms in this manner is the pro- 
mifcmade; Ifweeconfe^e ourfmnes, godtsfaithffill, and 
jfffiy toforgivemofirlinnes, and to cleanfe m iromall «»- 
righteoufneffe. Bee that eovereth his finnes Jhall mt pro/per-, 
bmwhofoconfe^eth andforfaketh them Jhall have mercy. 
Only acknowledge thine imquity that thou hafl trAnfgref[ed 
again} the Lsrd thy God. Ifweewofild judge our fehes, 
wee JhottldnotbeJHdged. I [aid, I will confefe my tranf. 
grejftons unto the Lord, and thoH forgavefi the iniquity of 
myfmne. Which is moft lively to be fecnc m the para- 
ble of the prodigall ^before mentioned, where the Father 
Crefembling God)is faid,to have methis loft fonne before 
he came athim,and to have embraced and kiffed him, at- 
ter he was refolvcd in himfelfe to acknowledge and con- 

fcffe his faults. ,. .. ,« 

As faith teacheth the poore finner to humble himfe.te 
inunfainci confelSonofhis manifold offences, lo it ftir- 
reth & encourageth him to powre out bis foule in earneft 
and hearty prayer unto God, for pardon and forgivenefle, 
through the mediation of Jefus Chrift. Thus he is taught 
of God, Take with yu tvor^s and tnrne to the Lord, fay 
Hntohim.Take away all iniquity, andreeeive wgracioufly : 
fo will we render the calves of our lifs, B oth thefe may be 
feene in the poore Publican, T»bo durfinot lift up his eyes to 
Heaven, but fmote himfelfe upon the breafl, faying, God 
bee mercifull to me a finner. And fo the Church prayeth. 
O remember not afainfi us former iniquities: letthjten^ 
der mercies jheedily^prevent m. This prayer of taith is 
not prefented before God, in affurance that his fins be al- 
ready pardoned, but to obtaine pardon of the neb mercy 
of God.by and through the merits of lefus Chrift. And the 
promifcistohimthat prayeth unfainedly, that heihall 
bee forgiven! Jf my people, whisharecMbymy Name, 



217 



1 loh.5,9. 



1 Cor, 1 1.3 I, 
Pfai.SS.J. 



Luk.i j.io. 



Ads 8.21. 

Hor. 14.2. 
Luk.18.13, 



pfai.79.8. 
joeU.17. 



2l8 



Mat. 7. 7. 
loelz.jz. 
Rom. 10. 1 Ji 



what it is to live by Fdth in f articular 



4» 



Joh.i!. 2fjl6, 
Afis 15.11. 
Rom. J 0.4, 
Gal. 2. 16. 
Iphef.X.i 5. 
Phil. 3.9. 



5. 



lob l^.lj. 
Pfal.24.5. 
ir3.58.17. 
Pfaldj.j. 

Gal, z. 20, 
X J©h,3_.i4, 



fbdlHsumhlethemjel'ves and fraj, and Jeeke my face ^ and 
turne from their yvic^d waies : then mil Jheareji^omHeam \ 
vejty andTvillf&r^ive their finne. Aske^^ftdit Jhallbe given 
you: feeke Mrjdyee fliallfinde, Whofoever Jkall call upon the 
name of the Lord, Jhali bee delivered, viz.. from fin and 
death. ; 

- Fourthly, Faith receivcth the promifc of mercy made j 
in Chrift, 'and embraceih or rcfteth upon the Ipeciall, 
free mercy of God in Chrift for pardon : And hereby we j 
I are /uftified, that is, of finncrs made Juft and Righteous, I 
j not byinfufion of holinclTe, but by free condonation and i 
i accepiation of grace. Chrift is every where made the j 
j thing, which faith embraccth to falvation, and whom it j 
j looketh unto and refpefleth, as it makes us righteous in | 
! the fight of God : and faith juftifyeth, not by any vertue j 
or dignity of it owne, but as it receivcth and reftethon 
Chrift 0ur RightcoHfnefe^ our Saviour y our Redeemer 
from (inne and deAth^ It is the good pleafure of God re- 
vealed in the Gofpell; to pardon and juftifie them from 
all their finnes, that believe in Chrift ; and faith juflifi- 
cth, asitlcaneth upon him, to receive fp'ciall mercy ; 
through him, or which is all one, to obtaine forgive^ 
neflc otfins of the meereand rich grace of God through 
him : And this is the moft formall ad: of faith a? jufti- 
fyin<;. 

Fifthly, It dothcertific of pardon granted and fcaled 
unto us : It doth obtaine, receive, and affure of forgive- 
ncfl'c in particular. I know that my Redeemer liveth j Then 
forgave ft the iniquity ofmyfinne • Thou haH caft all my fins 
behind thy backe : As for oar tranfgreffions thoujhalt purge 
them avray : Chrift hath loved mee^ and given himfelfe for j 
me. We know that we are pa^ed fi^om aeath unto life, becaufe j 
we love the krethren.'Wizic arc divine conclufions of a live- 
ly faith. But this perfwafion or afliirance, that our fins 
arc already pardonedjs not an adl of taith juftifying, as it 
/uftifyetbjbut an aft of faith following Juftification^, a pri- 
vilcdge granted of grace to a finncr now fct in the ftatcof 

._- rac^' 



touching the fromlfes of par don andfdrgivenejje,d^c. 



^race, or an a<a of experience in a (inner now juftificd by 
feith.forgiveneffe of fins in and through Chrift is offered 
inthcGofpcllj'toevery burdened and weary foul c that 
will receive it,a3 the ground of faith; vouchfafed to every 
one that belicveth ; but pardon of fm is apprehended, 
as already granted, when we come to be aflured that w^ 
doe believe.Faith in order of nature is precedent to Jufti- 
fication,bu£ Juftificacionit felfe goetb before the fence 
thereof. As faith obtaineth and rcceiveth the promife of 
fpcciali mercy, it doth not find us Juft when we begin to 
believe, but maketh us Juft by embracing the Righteouf- 
ncflc of Chrift- as it ccrtifieth and affureth of favour, it 
doth not actively Juftifie, but findctb the thing done al. 

^^S'th affureth ofthc pardon of fmne by a double ac^. 
Firft,itIayethholduponthegcneraU promifes made to 
Believers/uch as thcfe; Use that believeth Jhall he Javed : 
'By faith every one that believeth Isjttflifled; He that ^<?/fV- 
zr//^; A4/6^^'^r/^#*«i /^^.Secondly.it concludes undoubted- 
ly from them, That he believing is already received into 
favour, and bath obtained rcmifTiin of finnes. Now be- 
twixt thcfe two comes the teftiraony of the renewed 
Gonfciencc, working upon the foule by refieaion,where- 
by the true Believer is made privic to his owne en:arc,and 
affured that he doth believe. The whole is colleded thus ; 
Hethatbclievcthin Chrift is already Juftified, or hath 
received pardon and forgivcneffe : This is the voice of 
faith, grounding itfelfc upon the expreffc teftimony of 
God fpeaking in holy Scripture. But I believe : This is 
the witneflc of the renewed confcience, enlightened by 
the Spirit,and dircded by the Word ; whereb y the Belie- 
ver comes to know what God hath wrought in him. For 
no man can be faid to Believeth it he doth Believe; but 
he believeth the promifesby faith, and knowetb himfeie 
to be a Believer, by the witnefle of his Confcience re- 
ncwed by the Spirit. The condufion of faith, grounded 
upon the former propofitions, the one expreffed,in Scnp- 



2Ip 



loh.j.lB. 



1 Cor.iii. 



220 



what it is to live by Faith in f articular 



Three prerog(3r- 
fives that ac- 
company confi- 
dent ajurance 

I. 
^ Efay j^.i. 
Phil.4.7. 



loll. 14.27. 
Ephcf.i.i^jiy 
Rom, J. I. 



Pfal. 5(5.4. 
Rom.8.53,34. 



turc, the other evident by the witncffe ot Confciencc, is, 
Therefore my fmncs are forgivcn,or I fhall be (avcd.Thc 
order of climbing to this airurance,is the rather to be mar- 
ked, that weake Chriftians, who want the comfortable 
fence and feeling of this mercyj might learncto fecke it 
m due order as the way is laid downc before them in 
the Word j andnotdejeathcmfclves without caufe, as 
though they were utterly deftitute of faith in Chriflr, 
becaufc they want the fence of this afTurance, and fo 
could doc nothing acceptable, becaufc it is not done in 
faith; nortirethemfelvesin aprepoftcrous courfe, noc 
knowing where tohy the foundation or beginne their 
worke. ^ 

Three prerogatives do ever accompany this confident 
aliurance of our Reconciliation with God. 

Firft.Peace with God, or ftsblc tranquillity and fweete 
calmncfIcofMir;dc; Sinne * had broken off our friend- 
ship and peace with God : but being juftified by faith we 
nave ren^iflion of finnes,and fo the caufe of enmity being 
taken away, peace i$ reftored, Evett that peace of God 
y^>9ich pafeth Hftaerfiandini, and is in (lead of a guard to 
keefe our hearts andminds in Chrift: -^ that golden Leeacie 
r^'u ^^"^ bequeathed ante his Difciplcs, when hee 
left the World. PeAce I leave vfith you^my peace I give un- 
to you. Beinijfiftified by faith, we have peace with God 
through our Lord lefm Chrif. And from this peace be- 
gmslivclycoufolation againd the temptations of finne 
Satan,and the World : fi-om the fence hereof the faith, 
mil loule may triumph wi h Dauid, The Lord is with me, 
lyfiillnot feare what man can doe unto mee ; and with 
the Apoftle, whojhall lay anj thing to the charge of gods 
EleB .? It u god that jftfiifietb : who is hee that cendem- 
»€th f 

Sscondlyjreeacccfre unto the throne of grace with 
boldnefle and confidence, Chrift as it were lea. ine us by 

thehand, into the prcfenceefGod.thatwc might en/ov 
hij grace m prcfcnce. When we were enemies we fled 

from I 



tottchm^ thepremifes of garden andforgivenep,^c, 

fromtbcttoneof God: but being reconciled by his 
eracc,wchave free accefle to come into his prefence, to 
askc whatwe will, with aflurance it (hall be done unto 
us.'Bjwhon,(fc, Chrift) ulfgwe have aceejfe byfmth, mo 
this qrace wherein weflan^. jr. 

thirdly, loy in the Ho'y Choft mf^ea^^M and glort^ 
c>^, which doth folift the faithfull above tne Heavens, 
that beinEcheared with the fence of Gods favour, and 
contented with Chrift alone, they dcfpifethe world and 
the bafe things therein, m rejojce tnho^eefihegloryof 
God, ^Andnotoneljfo, bnt tve glory in mbuUtton alfa. 
ThuJ D^i.i^prayed,Or4^^^^ tohe^rejoyandgUdncpy 
Refiore Hnto me ihepy ofchyfalvation. Alhhefc rare and 
pretiouspriviledgesfpringfromfaith:for.vi^^.«^>"^^^. 
Ln can pleafe God, by faith we have peace with God by 
faith we come unto him,by faith we rejoyce in him. The 
GodofHope mi you with all joy and peace in beleevtng. In 
vphom wee have boldne([e and accejfe, with- confidence by the 

faith of him. . ,,,,,. 

^ But this faith, which highly advancetb the Believer to 
boaft in God all the day loni', lifceth not up it lelfe, wax- 
eth not proud towards 1 he Lord. ¥rec remiflion, Iweet 
peace, afllirance of Gods favour, familiar and heavenly 
communion with him, and whatfoever rich token ot Ipe- 
ciallandintire good will God beftoweth, thefe cannot 
puff np,butabafethe Believer inhimfelte ? the higher 
he \s exalted by the free mercy of God,the lower he bum- 
blethbi.nfclfe before God. I will eflahliih my covenant 
with thee, andthoufhAltknow that lam the Lord: That 
thoH majefi remember, and be confounded, and mver open 
thy mouth anymore-, becanfe of thy Jhame, when lam pa^ 
eified toward thee, for althat thoH hafldone, faith the Lord 

god. 

Sixtly, By faith wee continue in this bleffed Qate, in 
fwcet peace & fellowfliipwith God. We can never take 
the eye from Chrift, but immediately the remembrance 
of former finnes doth trouble a ndvexc the conlcicnce : 

and 



221 



Rom.5,x. 

Ephef.2.i8. 



Rom.j.Zjj. 

I'^al J 1.8,12. 
Heb.ii.8. 



Fhil.i.if. 
Ro)ii.i5. J J, 

Epheil^.ir. 



Ezek. i5 52, 
6J.& 36.31, 
3i. 



222 



R0Tn.4.f. 



Rom.j.iS, 



what it is to live bj Faith in farticdar 



and daily weaknefles and infirmities will breed nofmall 
1 difturbance, if we doe not fue forth a daily pardon. Thcr- 
\ fore as we believe to Juftification, fo maft we continue in 
believing for the aduall pardon of our daily trcfpafles. 
The Apoftle faith, Godjufiifieth the ungodly : but by un- 
godly in that fcntcncc of Pau/y he is mea; t,who doth not 
bring his workes or mr rits, nor looke to his graces, qua- 
lities, ads, or vertucs in the matt, r of Juftification i but 
doth bewaile bis impiety, and flie to the throne of grace 
for pardon, being convinced of guiltincfTc. Thus nAbrd- 
ham was ail his time comprehended in this Catalogue, 
and is made b) the Apoft'c, as aperpetualf, fo a princi- 
pal! inflance ofthatfinall refolution : Therefore we con» 
elude, tha.t a mart is JH/fified by faith without the workes 
of the Law, for if believing in him that /iiftifieth the 
ungodly, was imputed for righteoufnefleunto Abraham^ 
after he had bcene for along time more righteous then 
the ordinary fort of Gods Saints or chofen, z^brahata 
all this while unfainedly believed himftlfe to be a finner, 
no way juftifiedinhimfclFe, but feekingto be ju iified by 
him, who if he fhew not mercy to finners, whileft they 
' bee finners, all mankind (hould periQi utterly. The drift 
andfcopcof P^«/inthethird and fourth to the Romanes 
is onely this : That although men may be truly ju!^ and 
holy in refpedl of others, and rich in all manner of works, 
as (i^braham was thus farre knownc and approved, not 
by men only, but by God:yct when they appcare before 
Gods TribunalUwhobeft knowcs as well he in perfecti- 
on, as the truth of their integritic, t-ey ftill acknow- 
ledge themfclvesto bee unprofitable fervants, alwayes 
pvaying. Lord, for" i^ive ti4 onr finnes, aud bee mereifull ta 
our offences.. Sothatallmcn, even the moft holy, arc fin- 
ners in theiTifelvcs,an -I m the Oght of God, in the Apoftles 
fence, aud are/uftified^y gr ce, not of debt, after the in- 
fufion oKuper^ aturallholinefle. The fincerc and upright 
VTa\,zt,J I. Vn2LX\^invph0fe ffirit thereisno gu'tie, is juftified, not be- 
Rom.4.4,5,6. caule of his finceriry, but becaufe the Lord imputetb not 

that 



touching thefromlfes df pardon andforglvemJfe,^c, 

that fin unto him, which he ftill nnfainedly acknowled- 
geth to be in hiin, continually praying, Lord, enter not in^ 
tojtiUement with thy fervent ; alwaies confefling, Lord^ 
inthyftghtnoflefljli'vi^igcanheejtiflificd, to wit, othcr- 
wife then Ky not entring into judgement, or by non-im- 
puta ion of his fins. And faith thatlayeth hoJd upon the 
promife ofmercy offered in Chrift, caufeth a man every 
day ta»-umblchiinfelfeforfin, and to feekc pardon by 
earneft prayer, everyday itreccivcth and feedcth upon 
thcpromifesmadcin Chrift, andfo aflureth that his fms 
are done away as a mift. r-^i 

And thus a Chriftian may live by faith tor many dates, 
or rather all the daies of his life, in fweet peace and com- 
munion with Godjif he will karne to raaintame, and take 
paines to ufe his faith aright. It is to be lamented that a- 
mongftChriftians, whodefircto live honeftly and keepe 
a good confcicnce, fo few know,fo many neglea the or- 
dinary ufe and improvement of their faith ; as if it ferved 
onely to give them comfort in the remiflion of fins at their 
firft converfion.andthcn had fyiifhcd all it fliould or could 
doc, except till they fall into fome notable decay, if not 
great offence, or be plunged into deepe doubts, or be cx- 
crcifed with fome great afBiaions : whereas the daily 
ufe and improvement of faith for the continuance and in- 
creafe of affurance of forgivcnefTe, peacc,accefFe unto the 
throne of grace, Joy ,and communion with God, is as ne- 
ceflTary, iliould be as conftant, as in the ufe of Tire and 
Water, of the Light,of Meatc or Drinke, or whatfoever 
is more ordinary for the comfort ot the Body. Serves 
faith for entrance and beginnings and not f orcontmuancc, 
progrefl'e,3nd cncreafmgs ? Is faith the breeder and brin- 
ger forth of Joy and Peace, and not the Nurfe and toftcr- 
Motherof them, cherifking and feeding them, till wc 
come to a fulland perfca age in Chrift ? All fruits, the 
neercr they comr- torips ;efl'e,thefweeter they be: and fo 
is rhc fruit of faith fweeter i« the cave then in the blade.It 
the fence of pardon be plcafant and delightfomc at the 
^ firft, ' 



22^ 



Pfal. 



I43'2. 



224 



what it is to live hj Faith in f articular 



Pfal. 139.17, 
i8.&3$.7. 



iTim.T.*^, 



firft,muftitnot is crrafc, asftrengthof faith and fpirimaU 
acquaintance with God increaftrth ? ' 

Is it not eafier to prcfcrve peacejtben to recover out of 
dumpes and diftrefies ? Every day to reckon with onr 
foulesj and get our debts cancelled,then to doe it now and 
then, when we have run farre behindhand, not knowing 
which way to turnc our felves ? Fire orce kindled is kept 
burning with leffe paine5j t.hen being oft quenched,it can 
be kindled.The labour of maintaining health is muchlefle, 
thenthctoyleofrecoveringoutof ficknefle. Let us then 
learne to make ufe of our faith every day ; As every day 
to humble our fclves before the throne of grace,and beggc 
the pardon and forgivcneffe of our finnes 5 every day to 
looke unto the grounds of comfort,and meditate thereup- 
on, that we may finde j'oy and fwectneffe therein ; every 
day to renew our faith in believing the pardon ofluch 
particular offences, as we have efpied in our felves that 
day^and confefled before the Lord,with fighs and groanes 
for mercy. Let us thinke ferioufly with our felves, how 
excellent a thing it is to be ip league of amity with God ; 
how blefled and pleafant a ftate to be freed from the feare 
of death and Hell;how rich and comfortable a thing to be 
Heire of Glory. Let us often ftirre up our fclves to con- 
verfe with Chrift; the better we know him,them rede- 
light and contentment we {ball take in fcllowlliip and 
communion with him. 

This is to live by faithj and to flirre up the grace that 
God hath given m. This is to maintainc faith,that it may 
fervcus. Fire in the embers glowcs not, beats not the 
houfe : Faith in the heart not ufed, doth neither increafe, 
nor comfort. A man may well be faid not to have the 
wealthjhe ufeth not for his benefit : furcly he wants the 
benefit of faith,who exercifeth it not.Vfe limbes,and have 
limbcs. The beauty and benefit. yea, the very increafe and 
pcrfedion of all gifts,vertucs,and graces confifleth in ufe, 
and aflion. Exercife perfefleth undcrftandingand memo- 
ry 5 ftrengtheHs the difpofition of the foulc,incrcafeth vi- 
gour. 



touching the promt fes of par don and forgiveneJfe,d!i.c, 



gour, bcgetteth promptnefle : the more thou doefl, the 
more thou maift.The okncr the iiberall man gives Almcs, 
anddoth good turncs . the more his Hberah'ty gro%ves and 
fhines.Letanymandiii-ently and throughly improve his 
faith, and great will be his faith, and great the joy it will 
bring in. 

It is our fault, if we fufFer Satan, with light tcmpta- 
tionSjOrdinari y to interrupt our fpirituall mirth,or to de- 
taine us in dumps and pentivenefle. Did we but carefully 
maintaine our faith, u would doe away all difturbance 
which is within us againft our felves, and tame the rebel- 
lion ofluft againft the fpirit of the minde renewed*, it 
would fccure us againft the power of enemies inward or 
outward, that they fhould not be able to hurt us, much 
leffc to prevailc againft us, and repreffe orvanquiili all 
perturbations, which fpirituall wickcdneffes, unbeliefe, 
want of godly contentation, defers in our condition, 
might occafion : it would cxpell unquietnefle, keepc un- 
der paflions, allay feares and griefe>, and calme the boi- 
ftcrous ftormcs of difcontent. Let us keepe our faith, and 
it^fi^X keepc our Joyjt will keepe it an even ever-flow- 
ing chrrent, without cbbe and flow, cloudcs and ecclip- 
fcs : leKus increafc-bur faith, it will increafc our joy. 

But to Wh^t raeafurc of Joy may a growne<Zhriftian at- 
taine,ifhebbxarefulltopreferveandftirre up his faith? 
It is a fmall thmg for him to come to an ordinary pitch of 
chearefullnefle. E'xcept his j'oy exceeds the mirth of a 
worldling in the quality and quantity of it, If his mirth be 
notafweeter, and more ravifhing-mirth, of an higher 
kinde, of a more pure nature, of a more conftant tenure, 
then any carnalU mans what-ever;hedifparage$ faith.Thc 
Chridians j'oy, is joy unfpeakeaUe and glorious , foy in the 
Ho/yG ho ft i^ixiothcr manner of Joy, then ever entred into 
the heart of a naturall man. So is that Text to be conftru- 
ed^eye hath netfeene^&c. not chiefly of the j'oyes of Hea- 
ven, which here the fpirituall man himfelfc cannot tell 
what they (hall be, but of, the Gofpels joy, of the wino 
Ol and 



225 



To nvlat me^ 
fureofjoy a 
Chiflianmay 
attains. 



I Pee.i.S. 
Rom.14.17* 

I Cor.z.9,ioi 



what it is to Iwebj Fdth mfart^cdar 



Calu.in I Cor. 
z.9.Jun,par. 



Johft 1 ^.ti. 
Rem. $.3. 
James i.t. 



and fatlings, already prepared, and now revealed to the 
Believer by the Spirit : which if the carnall man fcorne 
and fcofFe at, it is becaufe he cannot comprehend it. It is 
a more pure and conftant joy,which needs notthc fupport 
of earthly delights : his joy is within, he /oyes in the fa- 
vour of God, which is unchangeable. It beleemes not a 
Chriftian to bee merrie in one eftatc, dtimpifli in ano- ' 
ther^as if their joy depended upon their outward conditi- 
on. Nojno,thc favour of God alone is fufficient to uphold 
a good mans joy. Yourjoy no man takfthJromyoft^fVe giory 
in tribuUtion alfo : And great reafon, for if (in be pardo- 
ned, every thing canfeth a progreflb offalvation.Wcre it 
not odious to fee one profctlingfomc libcrall Science, to 
live by le wd and difhoneft fhifiing ? No better fight is it, 
to fee a Chriftian hanging his joy upon courfe and earthly 
pleafuresjwho hath more noble and generous, yea,Angc- 
licall delightSjthen which what hath Heaven better but in 
PfaU2^'7j^j9*l cicgreeonely and manner of fruition ? ^&rv excellent is thy 
loving kindn€Jfe,OGo^^ therefore the children of men f tit 
their trnfi under the (hadow of thy tvin^s .They Jhall be abnn- 
dantly fatisfisdwith thefatnefe sfthy.houfe ; and thou fhalt 
make t hem. drinke of the river of thy ^l€t}[ur^..\ F.or with thee 
u thefmntatne of life : in thy light (hall vpe fee Itght, . '.. Itiig 
a pleafiire to him, to want other pleafurcs,whoi is oft and 
every day ferious in the meditation of the remiUion of his 
finsjthc free grace and etcrnall love of God towards him 
in Jefus Chrift. v 

He that is every day bufied to fetch out a pardon of 

I eoiirfe for his daily infirmities, and to make even rccko- 

I fling betwixt God and his SouIc,that nothing remaine on 

I tb« fcorc to interrupt his peace, jlhall neither" be idle, nor 

unprontablC|ncither want imployraeptjnorcomfort.This 

Pfal.i9.s*5i3. courfe can open no gap to licentioufnefle, liberty in fin, 

or qarnall fccurity : for he is ever moft ftudious not to run 

^into arreragcs,. who is moft def^rous to have his debts 

' cancelled and blotted out. Faith is of the nature of fove- 

raigne purifying watcrs,whiehfowaflaQffthe corruption 

'!" ". ^ ' ^ o? 



touching thefromfesoffardon and forgi'venejfe,diiC. 

of the ulcer,that they coole the hcat.c, apd ftay, the fprcad 
of the infedioh, and by degrees heale the fame. ' And of 
CordialSjWhich fo comfort and eafe the heart,as alfothcy 
expell noxious humours, and ftrcngthen nature againft 
them. Junifyni^ faith" takes kindly rooting in a cleane 
heart, and being rooted purifieth it more and more.Faith, 
that pleads for mercy, doth cleave to the Commandc- 
ments, ftirre up to holinefle, over-rule the affed:ionsj de- 
light in purity, and difFufc the vertue of the word into 
every faculty of the foale. 

It may be ob/edcd, If faith certifie that our fins be par- 
doned ; and there be fuch joy in believing, how comes it 
to paflc that m.any good CbritHans live fo long in fearc 
and doubt, who would be contented to take any paines to 
be fetlcd in aflurance of Gods love ? The common caufes 
of this flowneffe of beliefe are many. 

Firft, an immoderate aggravation of their finne, and 
continual! thought of their unworthinefle. Thus the cafe 
ftands with many poorc Chriflians; faine they would be- 
lieve (as they acknowledge) but they are un worthy ,they 
have becne fin ners. Thefe muft know, it is good they 
(hould fee their ownc unworthinefle, but not that they 
(houldbehindred thereby from comming to Chrift j it 
is good to denie themfelves, but not to doubt of the 
mercy of the Lord. Chrift came to feeke that which was 
iojh, toifindeup the Broaken hearted, and to fafe finners. 
He died for his enemies, for the unworthy : Heinviteth 
the burdened to come unto him, and makes futc to the 
poore and worthlefle,that he might eafe and enrich them. 
If they were not unworthy, what need had they of Gods 
mercy ? or how fhould God glorific the riches of his 
mercy in pardoning their offences ? The feeling of their 
uflworchines makes them, fit to receive mercy from God 
who doth vouchfafe it freely : feeing befides their finne, 
which makes them unworthy, they have a fence of it^and 
an heart broken for it. If they were not unworthy, they 
could not believe t If their cafe had not beenc defperate, 

0^2 what 



227 



whence it « 
that many good 
Chrifiians live 
fo long in jearc 
an^£id}t. 



I, 



Matrfj.iS.xi. 
Efay 61.1,2. 
Matth.p.13. 

Rom. J. 10. " 
Math.ii.zS. 



2-8 



Efay4J.M- 

& 44, iz. 

Hof. 14.534' 



Ezra 10,2. 



EpHef.a.4. 

lxod.34.^j7- 

* Ifay f J.9. 

aCKroa.jj. 
11,1?. 
I Titn.1.15. 

Aa.z. 87,38. 
Luk.7.47. 



I lohn 1.7. 
Efay 1.18. 



what it is to live bf Vmh in f articular 

what necde was there, that Chrift iliould come from the 
bofomeof bis Father ? Pardon is offered freely of grace, 
the more vile they be in thcmfelvcs, the fitter to re^Qijre 
this undeferved kindneffe, r ,- ■ . 

Oh, but their {ins. are grievous and notorious, fcarlet, 
crying, fcandalous finnes ? This deteftation of fin is 
greatly to be comraended,if they remember withall, that 
there is hap.e in IfrAel concernhu this : if they will fet 
one eye upon the mercy of God, as they fet the other up- 
on the vileneffs of their iniquities. If their fins be many 
and groatjGod is rich in mercy ^ abundant in goodnejfe^ hath 
a mtiltitHde ef tender mercies ; His mercie reaeheth above 
the Heavens i he forgiveth iniquity jtranfgredion, fin and 
rebellion. All faults are eafily pardonable to his infinite 
mercy 3 which exceeds Mans, * as Heaven doth Earth; 
which can readilier forgive fcventie, then Man fevcn of- 
fences. 'SN 2i%nol Adatm, Manages , Paal, thefinfull wo- 
man commonly called Mary Magiialene^xht (^retians and 
leroes who imbrewed their hands in the bloud of Chrift, 
received of him to mercy ? Poth not he delight to for- 
give muchj that he may bindc to love much ? Shall not his 
favour fapcrabound to the fence of faith, where fin hath 
abounded to the wounding of Confcience ? It matters not 
what the wound is, fo Chrift bee the Phyfitian. The 
hlotidefChrifi ckanjeth tu from all finne. Nothing but the 
bloud of Chrift can wafri away the guilt of the leaft fin ; 
and his bloud is fufiicicnt to purge the naoft polluted 
Confcience. 

Bat they have felt no extraordinary meafure of forrow 

for fin, they are rather dull and fencekffe ? Are they 

weary of fin ? have they forrowed:tofelfc-d€ntall,and 

I to rcnou'Hce their intereft in whatfoever might fcp^Fate 

1 betwixt Chrift and them ? To fuchisthe word of R.e- 

i conciliation fent. 

I But they have often flipped into the fame fins ? There 

{ is a. difference of offeaces. There bee fins of ignorance, 

infirmity, forgetftilheflc, and fuddcn pa0ion,w hereunto 

I the 



touching the ^romifes of pardon and forgivenejfe\^c. 



the heart yccldcth not advifed confcnt, and from which 
the faithfuU by reafoh of thdf frailty can never bb;frejc in 
thislife,in fome degree or other. Mow iinto'thcfe Goi ot 
his mercy is plcafed to grant a pardon of courfe, notwith- 
ftandinghis fervants ftep oft into them through weakc« 
neflc, provided they humble thcmfelvcs, feeke mercy ^and 
labour the mortification of their, infirmities. . ex4l^r«j^^«i 
twice denied .y-ir^^ to be his wife, faying, She'iimy Si^ 
fier, OfDaifidit is recorded, that though he were axnan 
after Gods owne heart in all things, except the matter of 
Vriali'^yct of frailtie he offended many times in the fame 
particular. ' There be'foule, enormous^ "notorious finnes-,^ 
',whichv'\^dufl£i the; cpnfcicnc6V Mnd" ikcip and ^^jftclef/.thc 
'livcIyoji'sF^tion of^ra^ce'-^and thcfd muft be repented ofy 
ahcJadvif^dly left and forfaken, before we can beh'eve to 
tbc pardon and fbrgiveneffe of them. 'Nevertheleffci if a 
man have often, fallen intotbefe oftencesj/hc is not tade- 
fpairCjbut ferioufly to confeffc, and to forfake/his^tin^e,-; 
that he may -dbtaihertrercy.lFpr the Lord iiiviteth ttietob^-' 
ftinate andrebellioits'tfo rdperit, and by word and oath af- 
furcth them of forgiveneffc, if they will returne. And if 
welooke upon examples,we fhall findc many fuch, who; 
upon humiliation and carneftj)r.ay.er have bcene rficeiygd- 
unto mercy. ; ^; /;;- ^^ '^ , ^ " -^ ; ; ^^^Ay:,^^ 
But they have fall'ertgrfevolifly fince converffon"? So 
did DavUj^ndPerery who yet recovered i5y grace, and 
upon repentance were forgiven. Afoule offence, after 
grace rcceived,is not unpardonable. The bloud of Chrift, 
which wadicth away the guilt of fins before converfiari, 
is fufficient to purge the confcience from fins after con- 
vcrfion likewifc. We are commanded to repent of,taught 
to pray for the pardon of fins without exception. It is of 
free mercy that former finnes are covered, and by the 
^ fame mercy of God this tranfgrcflion may be p^rdpntejd.' 
The' mercy of God is everla(ling,his covenant unchanged 
able, though wc be unfaithfull, yet he cannot forget him- 
fcIfc.Hcdclightethto fheur mercy, and rejoyceth'iri the 
C^3 foule 



229 



I John 1,8, 
1 John 2. 2. 



23® 



Whatit is to live bjFmth in f articular 

foule that hath finned, but now lamcntcth, faying, Ihavt 
finned^andit did mt profit mff -The commandcmcnt of God, 
, in/oyningus to forgive our brother not feven times, bat 
I fcventie times ftvcn timcs,if he rcpcnt,is an cxprcflion of 
i his Tcadinefle to fncw mercy, to them who doc oft and 
: gricvoufly offend, iftheyreturnc by unfained repentance, 
; andfuc for mercy. Oh, then take heed, that to other 
I great and many fins infidelity be not added. Doubting be- 
gets deadnefle, whereas looking up unto the promifcsof 
mercy ,w ill both eafe and foften the heart. 

But they cannot believe? Indeed they thinks there is 
no promifeof mercy made to them, upon which they 
ftiould ground their confidence. Therefore tbcy mull 
know ; that God calleth them in his Word,tocotB^ unto= 
him, as if he did particularly name them, and promifctb^ 
to receive them unto mercy ; and then they muft confider 
of the free grace of God in promifing,and his faithfulnefle 
in making good whatfoever he hath promifcd, that nei- 
ther want of fecling,nor conccitof unwortbines dif-hear- 
ten them from drawing nigh unto him. They muft think 
fcrioufly withthemfelyes, Ineed mercy, and thelor^J. 
hathpromifed it : I thirft after it,and the Lord will grant 
unto me my defire according to his promife i lam utterly 
undone if I obtaine nothelpe; ^nd helpc is not to bee 
foundjbutintbeLordJcfus, who lovingly invitethmee 
to come unto him^that I may be refrefhed. Seeing there^ 
fore I long for mercyjand the Lord makes offer of it in bis 
dearely beloved Sonne, I will goe unto him and humble 
my foule before the throne of his grace, I will entrcate 
mercyjand rowle my foule upon the promife of falvation. 
All my helpe is to looke off my felfe an ob;e(5l oi confufi- 
on,and looke upon Chrift an obje<5t of confolation;^ there- 
fore I cleave unto him as mine only Saviour, and truft 
inhim though he fhould kill mc. It doth not pleafc God, 
thatlfhouldftandaloofFeand ftraine courtefx, now hee 
j cncourageth me to come with confidence, or give way 
j to doubtings, now I have his promife, who never failed 

' a"yi 



touching the pom fa of far don andforgivenejfei^c, 

any tbattrufted in him, who hath done more for me then 
ever he promifed : therefore I will goc unto him in the 
mediation of Jefus Chrift, and importune his grace ; if I 
perifh I will peri{h in his bofomc, to die for it nothing 
(hall feparate me from his mercy * 

A fecond caufe of this flo wnefle may bee ignorance of 
the way how this aflurance is to be fought, upon what 
foundation it is to be laid, in what order chey come un- 
to it. Sometimes they mif-conceive the promifes, as if 
they were offered onely to Believers, and not laid as the 
foundations of faith ; and thereupon falfely conclude,that 
no promife is made unto them, becaufs they cannot findc 
that they doe believe. Sometimes they miftake the nature 
of faith,taking it to be a perfwafion or afiiirance that their 
finncs are pardoned-; and fo conclude, that they have no 
faith, bccaufe they want aflurance : when in the order of 
nature,faith is precedent to aiftuall remiflion. Awd many 
times Chriftians are herein deceived,that they feare to re- 
ceive and apply the promifes of grace,till they can finde m 
themfelvcs fucha meafurc otfanifllfication, as is fcarcc, if 
at all,attaineal>le in this life. Thefe and fuch like blockes 
muft be remove i by good information,acquainting them- 
fclves out of the Word of God, what feith is, the order 
in which we mufl: climbe up to affurance, how the pro- 
mifes are to be received,and What is the true ufeof fantfli- 
fication. But two things are fpccially to bee learned for 
their dire^ion. 

Firft, thataflbone as ever a man fecles (in as a bur- 
den, and doth trucly, earneftly, fervently thiffl: to bee 
caled of it, he hath a calling to co me unto Chrift to aske, 
obtaine,and receive mercy. H e that was bitten with the 
fieric Serpent, was appointed to lookeuptothe brafcn 
Scrpentjthat he might recover. Oh then delay no longer, 
bcc notheld backe with vaine ob/eiflions and caufelefc 
fcruples. Behold, he calls thee to come, vyhy {hpiildcft , 
thou feare in refpcfl: of thy vilenes ? Faith is obedience, 
and obedience is more acceptable then courtefic and com- 
^ 0^4 plcmenr. 



\ 



n^ 



2. 



I. 

I^ay5 5.r. 
loll. 7. 5 7. 



Matth.11.28, 
I Joh.j.24. 



J 



232 



lohn 6.1$. 



Rev. 

Ifay 
Job. 



2. 



at. 17. 



Gal, 3. 14. 



WhaP it is tolwei^y Fdtkm particular 

plement. The fooner thou commcQ:,the better welcome, 
It is rudeneffe, and not good manners, not to doe as thou 
art bidden to doejyea, and fo earncftly per'fwadcd, intrea- 
ted, and charged to doe. To doc ths works rf God is to 
believe in bim, whom he hath fealed and fent to be thy 
Saviour. And {halt thou not tenne times more honour and 
pleafe him in trufting upon his mercies, and fealing to his 
truth, then in fearing his juftice, and dreading his 
power. 

Secondly, hee that findf s" himfclfe plunged into the 
gulfe of mifery by {in, and deftitute of tne fappe and 
fruit of grace is invited to come unto Chrift, that hee 
may receive from him the grace of fand:ificatioD, as well 
aSTCmiflton :" Oh, evety one that thirfleth, coma jee to 
the rcmers \ Hee that belUveth^ out of his bellie Jhall 
fioT^ rivers of water of life. The barren in grace muft 
cortieunro Chrifc to be fupplied of his fuUne{le. "By faith 
wee receive the promifed Spirit. Hee that walloweth in 
fmhe, is nbt firted to believe, for Juftifying faith can ne- 
ver take foubdrbbiing. in the heart, which is not refol- 
vcd tbforgoe the prafticCj and hath caft off the love of all 
{inne: but when a man is wearie of{inre, and findcs 
emptine{fe of grace,' as he is commanded to pray for mer- . 
cy^andthe gifts of grace, fo Is bee to believe in Chrift, fc^* 
the obtaining of both. Wherefore (ludy, ftrive^ endevour 
to believe, and lay indld on the Rocke, as in danger of 
drowning a man will doe on the tree or pofl: that comes 
next to hand. When thou haft, in thy conceit; moft caufe 
to dcfpaire, labour agianft it : when thou haft no reafpn 
in thy apprehcnfion to believe,believe with ail thy pow- 
I er ; when the favour of God is loft to thy feeling, it may 
jbcprefcntto thy faith, which difcerneth what is promi- 
! fcd,though to fenceit have no being.And for thine encou- 
ragefnentjfet before thine eyes Chrifts frecdome toaUui- 
ters Iri^the time of his fertijrepeliing noi^e who tr^ely |de« 
fired- trie price of his blojud. Th^rebe other caufes of thii? 
wcakncs,which have been mentioned,&anfwered before. 

Now 



touching thefromifes of pardon andfor^venejfejdcc. 



Now if any poore and vveakc Chriftian dcfire to know 
(as be defircs nothing morc)how be {jhould ftirre up him- 
felfcto believe the promife of forgiveneffe, when bee 
wants the comfort of ir, yea, when to bis owne fence be 
feclcs the contrary. 

Firft, be muft unfaincdly bumble bis foulc before God 
'\n the confeffion of fin.with earneft prayer for pardon. For 
he that * acknowledgctb bis finsjfball be received into fa- 
vour. O LordjI have finned, and thou art juftly difpleafed : 
I have caft off thy law, and thy wrath is kindled againft 
me. My heart trembleth at the apprebenfion of thy fore 
difpleafure, and I am afraid of thy /udgcments. All this 
is come upon me by rcafon of my fooHQinefTe: my fmart 
and forrow is bred in mine owne bofome. I have no reft 
in tnj bones becaufeof my Cm. But, deare Father, I 
I©ok unto thee for mercy in Jefus Chrift •, I befecch thee, 
take away the tranfgrcflion of thy fervant. It is thy pro- 
pertie to {hew mercy.it is thy free proraife to pardon the 
iniquities, tranfgreflions, and fins of thy people that 
turne unto thee, and pray s for thy Names fake be favou- 
rable to mine iniquities, and remember my fin no more : 
caft them behinde thy backc, doe them away as a mi!), 
and bury them in perpetuall oblivion. I have gone aftray 
like a loft flieepe, but now my defire is to returne home 
unto thee : With my whole heart Idefire ihy favour, 
O fuffer mee not to perilli under the burden of my 
"finne. Remember not my revoltings from thy Comman- 
dements : but according to the multitude.of thy tender 
compaffipns remember me for thy goodneffe fake, O 
Lord. Truth it is, I am not worthy to be called thy fonne, 
or to be partaker of the leaftcrumme of thy mercy : But 
thou art a moft loving and compafllonate Father, who 
dealeft not according to the iniquities of thy children 
that trcfpaffe againft thee, not rewar^^eft them.according 
tothcir-dcfertSiwhoreraincft not thine afigcr' forever, 
bccaufc mercy pleafeth thee. If thou wilt be merciful! to 
my finne, then (hall thy glory appeare, my heart fhall be 
,:; enf^a- 



233 



'DmSflcMsto 

the xt>ea/{eto 

fimeuptbem- 

fehenobelicue 

^hemheyfeele 

nocomjon. 

I. 




Exod 54.6,7, 

Iia.45.25. Si 

Ifl-58.17, 
Mic.7.18. 
rial 5 i,ij2. 



Num. 14.19, 
Pfal.ioj.io. 



234 



what it is to live by F dth in particular 



pfal.ijo,4. 



.Pfal.4t. 



Match. 1 1 z8. 
Efay f 5.i,a, 
Mic.7. ip. 
Kal.65.3. 
Pfal.8j.2. 
Efay 1.1 8. 
A Cor, J. 19, 20 
« Joh.j.zj. 



Rom.j.ao, 

Eplicf.y.j.& 
1.7. 






Rom. J. a J. 
Hof.i4.j. 

lohn 5.16. 



Efay 54.8. 
Ezek,i6,6o. 



cnflamed with thy lovc,T fliall walke in thy feare, and my 
tongue fliall fing of thy goodncfle. 

Secondly, He mud rowfc and ftirre up himfelfc to be- 
lievc,with reafons,drawne from the promifes, and cove- | 
nant of God made in lefus Chriftjconl'idcrations taken out ! 
of the Word,and experience of his dealing with other his ' 
fervants in fornaer times, tvhy an ihou cafi downe, o my j 
fonle^why art thou dtfquieted within nte f Truji in G0d,znd 
caft thy burthen upon him, for he wiU cafe tbce.Thou haft 
his promife confirmed by osth and covenant, that he will : 
caft thy fins into the bottomc of the Sea, purge away thy 'i 
tranfgreffions, forgive thine iniquitics,|cover all thine in- | 
firmicies,and never remember them any more Bchold,he j 
perfwadeth, intreatetb, befeecheth commandcth thee to 
believe : why art thou afraid ? It is the will of Gocf, that 
thou fliouldcft reft on his mercy : he cannot be offended 
for that which himfclfe commandcth, nor denie that 
which hee hath promifed. Ifjtnne abound, mercy fbaU 
abonndmHch more. His burning wrath is pacified in Je« 
fas Ghrift, who bath given himfelfe an offering and afa^ 
crifce to god for afrveetefmeUing favour, that grace might 
glorifie her felfe in the pardoning of thy offences. Haft 
thou nothing to bring before him but fin and impiety that 
he abhorretb ? He looketh upon thee in his dearc Sonne 
Jefvis Chria.whom be hath fet forth to bee a propitiation 
through faith in his bloud,znd loveth freely. Doeft thou re- 
quireleftimonies of his undeferved kindnefTc ? Godfo lo. 
vedths rporldythat he gave his only begotten Sonne, that roho' 
feeuer believeth in himyfhouldnotperifhjbut have ever lafiing 
/»/?. He hath entred into a free and everlafting covenant 
with thee, and waited long for thy converfion when thou 
wcnteft aftray : and will he not much more have mercy 
upon thee now thou prayeft ? Whyartthoudifmaycdac [ 
the fight of thy great unworthineffe ? Mifery is the objcdi: , 
of mercy : the greater thy diftrcfTe, the more glorious wilt ' 
be the grace of God in thy delivcrance.The bafer thou art 
ixi thine own fight,the fitter to believe : for faith excludes ' 
/ .all. 



touching thefromifes of-parden andforpvemjfe^^c 



all conceit of wortb,and rcccivctb pardon as a mecre gift 
of grace. Sinfiill men, whofc compaffions are not as the 
drop of a bucket to the huge Occan,if compared with the 
infinite Sea of mercy which is in our God, muft forgive 
their Brethren till feventie tnncs fcven time?, if they fin 
againftthem, and repent: Our God, who requires fo 
; much of us, who have nothing but what he giveth,will he 
notdealetenderly with the poorc foule, which hath fin- 
ned and rcpentcth ? God hath done more for us then for 
iliamc we couM dcfire, before we asked any thing at his 
hand j yea, when we fought to excufe our difobedicnce, 
and charge the fault upon his Highnefle-.what will he not 
do, when we accufc our fclvcs, and pray for mercy ? My 
fouIe,nothing can hurt thee,butunbeliefe.Thou art woun- 
ded by fin i Believe in Chrift, and by his bloud thou art 
healed. God is ang'ry : Believe, and thou art reconciled : 
All variance ceafeth, wheii thou art knit unto Chrift.r 
Wherefore fhake offdiftruft, hearken no longer to the 
affaults of Sathan ; but rowlc thy felfe upon the Lord,and 
ftick faft unto his mercy.If thou want the fence of his love, 
thou haft his promife that hee will bee good unto thee : 
cleave unto it above all thou canft feele, fee, or compre- 
hend. O my God, I will truft in thee,- though thou ilioul- 
defl: kill me : I will believe thy favour, when thou frow- 
neft upon me : and expecfl con;ifort, when I lie groaning 
under the heavie weight of thy difpleafure. Thou caufeft 
man for a time to poffefle the fins, which thou haft pardo- 
ned :, and I will believe the pardon of my fins, when thou 
fc'emcft tOjfet them in order before my face. 
^ Thirdly^ He mnft be inftant with the Lord to give him 
both ftrength of faith; and the fight of his belie fe,that hee 
may know he doth believe unfainedly. Give.m?,Gratious 
Father,to believcjas thou baft commanded me to relie up- 
on thee. Thou flretcheft forth thy hand in love, and offe- 
reft rich treafures of goodnefie, to them that lay hold up- 
on tjiemxcrcate in me the hand of faith,that I may cffcdu- 
ally receive what in mercy thoureacheft forth.The kno vv- 



235 



Luke 17.34. 



23^ 



what it Is ta live by Faith in ^articuUr 



4. 



ferrethtoirant 
the comfort of 
forgivemjfe. 



ledge of faith is of thee, as is the gift it felfe : give me the 
Spmtofrcv^clation,thatImaydif<:erHc truly whatthoa 
haft given me,that my lips may fing of thy praife ^H the 
dayflong. - 

Fourthiy^He muft comfort his heart in the certainty of 
Gods Word,though for the prefcnt he feele no combrt 
Rcturne unto thy reft,0 my foule,for the Lord willdeale 
bountifully with thee. His Word is ^one forth in truth 
waice a little while, andthoufhaltbelioldthe light of his 
countenance. The Lord deferreth to grant the comfortof 
forgiveneffe. that be might confirme faith, traine thee up 
m obedience, trie thy patience,preferve his graces,3nd do 
thee good in the latter end. Thou art already blefTed, be- 
caufethe grant of pardon is fealed,and received: the fence 
ofdelivcrancepeitaincthto the execution, which for a 
httle feafon IS deferred, that it may bee perfected- with 
greater glory to God,and comfort to thy felfe. Blcffed be 
the Lord,who hath turned a way his eyes from my tranf- 
greffions, but hath not turned away his mercy from me 
Rcpyce in the Lord, O my foule, againc, I fay,re/oyce •' 
for he hath covered thine iniquities, and purged away thv 
fin,that thou (Kalt not die.Oh,tbcble{rcdncflc of that man 
whofe iniquities arc forgiven, to whom the Lord imDu- 
tethnofin. c.a i;;:^ 

Fiftly, Thus faith is daily to be preferved and quicke- 
ned, unto which k b not unprofitable to adde fomc 
thoughts concerning the bleifedneffe of the Man, whofe 
debts are cancelled out of Gods Booke ; the grace and 
loveot(Sod,whovouchfafcth to (hew compaffion here- 
in j the price that was payed to divine Juftice, that ^^racc 
might juftly conferre this blefling upon them that be- 
lieve Thefe thiBgs may fervc to quicken the heart in the 
confidcration of this mercy. 



CHAP. 



thefnmfes of Safi^ifcatioft,Scc, 



CHAP. III. 

fFhdt it u to live hy faith tomhing the fremijes of 

San^ijicMion, and how toftirre t*p onr 

felves thereunto^ 

THenextfpirituallpromifcsof things abfolutely nc- 
ceflary to falvation are concerning SandHfiGation, or 
the killing of (innc and quickening us to ncwnefle of 
lifei by the continued infufion of holinefie, and renova- 
tion of our hearts according to Gods Image, and to the 
enabling lis to walk in new obedience according to cove- 
nant. And this isfignified by the gcneralltearmes of iub- 
dufng, faving, wafhing, cleanfing, and purging from, 
fin and iniquity, who is a God liks *'»^'^ ^^^^^ ^'^^^ 
fardomth inicfmie.andpa^eth hy the trAnjgrefion of the 
remnant of his heritage f hee retaimh not hts anger for 
ever, hecaufe hee de light eth in mercy- Hee yoill turns a- 
gaine, he will have compafion upon m ; he willfubdue our 
im^aities, andthoH wilt cafl all their finnes into the depths 
of the Sea. Hee Jhall fave his poofle from their finne ; 
which as it is true in the matter of our Juftification for 
the forgivencfle of our fmne ; f^ alfo in the point of San- 
aification, for delivering us from the power of finne. 
And fo are the like generall fpeeches to be underftood, 
that Chrif^ is the Lamh of Go I, which taketh away thefms 
of the world '^ that he was n^mifefied to takf away oar fmnesi 
that the blend of Chrifi cleanjeth us f-om all fmne ; thai he 
I'ovedus andwafhed M iromoar finnss in his owne bland. 
And this is that,which the Lord, of his frccEiercy, pro- 
mifed to effeft for his Church and people, %^nd it Jhall 
come topafe, that he that is left in Zion^ and he that remai- 
neth in Jerufakm^fhallbe called holy, even every one that is 
written among the living in lerufalem. When the LordfhaU 
have wajhed away the fUh ef the daugUers ofZion, and 



237 



Of tie promfes 
of SanStificati- 



on. 



Mic.7.i8jT9. 



Matth.1.21. 



lohn I. 29. 
1 Ioh.2.2. 
I lohn 1.7. 

Apoc.i f. 



Eray43.4. 



238 



4Chrifiian u 
aUorpzi to be- 
leeveihsfepro- 

miles. 



I. 

Ezek.ii.ip. 
jer.51. 33. &i 
IJ.40. j 



What it is to live by Faith touching 



2» 



Revel. «, 1 7. 

loll. 7. 3 7. 
Verfe^g. 

lohn s.i^. 
Col. I 19. 
Ephef. 1.23. 
Col,3.iOjii- 
Col.z.io. 



I Cor. 1.30. 



p3&U. have -purged the bloudef lerufalem fiom the midfi ther- 
of, by the Spirit of ludgementy and by the Jpirit of b^r~ 
King, 

Now feeing we have fuchpromifcs from God, itfol- 
lowcth neceflarily, that a Chriftian is allowed to believe, 
that Godjpf his free grace in Chrill,will purge him from 
the filthy remainders of fin, and renew him more and 
more after his owns Image, in rightcouinefi'e and true 
holinelie. 

In the covenant of grace which God made with his 
peoplc,he promifcth to tak£ away thetr hearts offloncy and 
to give them hearts offiejb; to put hu law in their inward 
parts ^artdt^ri^e it in their hearts % to put hu feare in their 
hearts,that they Jhall not depart from him : and to give them 
a new hearty and to put his Spirit within them. But what 
God promifetb, faith rccciveth. It is no prefumption but 
true obedience to afliire oar felves from God,oHvhatfoe- 
ver he hath paft his promifcjand entred into bond and co- 
venant freely to give. 

The burdened arc invited to come unto Chrifl foreafe, 
and the thirftic for rcfrelhmg. Is any man dried, withe- 
red, and burnt up for lacke of the fap and moifture of 
grace, the fountaine is fet open unto him, he may come 
and drink to the latisfying of his foule. If any man thirfiy 
let him come unto me, and drinks- Hee that believeth on me, 
AS the Scripture faith, out of his belly Jhall flow rivers 
of living water. Chrifl: is the fountaine of grace and the 
well of life, everflowing and ever full, o^ whofefnUneJle 
every Believer doth receive grace for qrace ; who filleth 
all in all ; who is all in all, in whom wee are compleate^ 
filled with all heavenly graces, w^hich ferve to remove e- 
vill, or fet us in fl:ate of blefledneflc. There \^ no grace 
but from Chrift \ no communion with Chrift, but hy 
faith. From Chrift we receive to believe ; and from him 
believing, we daily fucke the life ofgrace. Chrift \^ made 
unto tu of God, wifedome and SanBificationf as well at 
Righteonfneffe and Redemption : and as it is our dutie to 
be- 



thefromifes of SanciifieaUQn,^c, 



believe in Chrift for pardon of fin, fo to embrace him by 
faith for fandification, and to be filled with his gifts of 

grace in our meafure. , ^ , r . . ^ ^^ 

Chrift by hisbloud hath purchafed for his people all 

fpirituall bleffings in heavenly things, even all things that 

pertainc to glory in the world to come, and to live godly 

in this prefent world. But what Chrift hath purchafed, 

that we may affuredly believe God will beftow:He will 

not with-hold any thing, that he bath gratioufly given to 

our Saviour on our behalfc. , . ,. r ^i tl • r 

We aretaught to aske of God in Jefus Chnft, increafe 

and ftrength of grace, that wc may be, inabled to^walkc 

before him inncw obedience, mce^enot tofrajforjoH 

and to Mre, thatyee mi^^t he filled vpuh the knowledge of 

h» mU,in allmfedome and ^irmallunderfimdtMg : That 

yeemhhtrvalke worthy of the Lordmto aUpleafing, Betng 

(fuUfHUmeverygood-worke^andincreafngin the k»owUdge 

I of God. AnA the very god of pace fa'^Uife you wholj. 

But what wee are taught and commanded tobegge m 

prayer, we a^e allowed to believe, that wee (hall obtaine 

it of free grace. ^ ^ r j l- 

The faithful! have relied upon God for grace and abi- 
lity to walkein his wayes, andt6 finifli the work whcre- 
unto they were ordained. ButaH the faithfull, as faith- 
fiill,be partners in the fame proraifes and privuedges, and 
live by the fame faith. ^ ^ , ,, t-,- 

- Wee are commanded to caji off the old man, whtchi4 
corrupt, with the affcmom ani hfls, and to fHton the 
New wan, which after God is created in tighteoHfne^e 
and true hQlineffe: But in the covenant of Grace, Ood 
givcth what he requireth ; Mans duty is his tree gitt ot 

^^^Tt^'s neceffary a Chriftian fhould bclievc,that God will 
fanftific his nature,and inable him to thofe duties ot holi- 
Ineflcandrightcoufheffethatherequires. ^ 

For Tuftification and Sandlification bee individuall : 
I whom God doth acquit from the guilt of fin, and ac- 
cept 



23P 



3- 

Apoe.j.j. 
EpheCi.j. 
2 Pet.i J. 



4. 

Col. 1. 9j 10. 

iThcf.J.sj.' 
5- 

2. Tim. 4. 1 8. 
Phil. 4 13. 

Ephen4. 2Ij 



It u ntcejfary 
to believe GoJ 
HjlUfanclifie 
our nature, and 
enable td hdli' 
nejfe, 
I. 



240 



Whaf it is to live b^ Faith touching 



Rom.? 
I Cor. 



.1,2. 
I 3O; 



s. 



cept as righteous unto life through JefusChriQ, them he 
doth fanftific by his Spirit, to walkc before him iii new- 
neffeoflife. Chrifthimfelfecannotbe divided, nor the 
participation of his benefits : If by communion in his 
death, we be delivered from the curfe and raaledidlion of 
the Law ; by the power of his Refarredion, w e arc rai- 
fed up to live unto God. 

If Chriftians be not perfwadcd that God will morti- 
fie their corrupt affediions, and build them forward in 
holineite, theyfhall very much ftagger, coldly fetupon 
the pra(fticc of Cbriftianity, be cfFand on, unflayed, often 
fainting at the difficulty of the worke, difinayed at their 
manifold OipSj ftrong corruptions, and little prevailings 
againft them. 

Our owne ftrcngth is too weake for the worke ofho- 
linefle ; as to defeat the policies of Sathan^toreprefTe and 
vanquidi the lufts of our rebellious hearts & allurements 
of the world: much more to change & cleanfc our hearts, 
which are by nature and cuftome ia fin fo deeply pollu- 
ted. If we have not faith to believe that God will aide, 
aflill:, andbleffeus in our endeavours, yea, and doe the 
whole worke for us ; what courage can we have to goe 
about it ? What fncceffe are we like to findc in it ? W hat 
(hamcfuU foyles and repulCes fhall we fulaine ? 

But fetlednefic in ihis, that God will perfe^ his work 
begun, caufcth men to goe about the pradice of mortifi- 
cation with muchreadincflcjchearefullneffe, eafc, ftayed- 
nefre,andhappiefpeed. He will fight manfully againft 
his lufts, and continue in the combate againft them, who 
is affured of vidlory from God in the end. It is a great 
heartning to refift evill, or to doc any good duty, when 
we believe God will be with us, in the one and in tha o- 
ther, to give us helpc againft our enemies, and to inable 
us unto the work: and that work muft needs profpcr that 
God will forward,and fuccced well,that he will bring to 
perfei^lion. 
The promifcs of God concerning fpirituall blcflings 

" are 



^•^•:>^^ 



thefromifes ef SattBijicatfoth^c. 



arc fo linked togsther,that whof ocvcr believeth not every 
one aright, he carinot believe any one fte(dfaftly as he 
ought. He fiaall many times be in doubt of the f enTiffioW 
of his finnes, and in fcarc of failing away, who hath not 
learned to reft upon God for the grace of fantftiff- 
cation, no Icife then for the pardon of his offences : for 
the certainty of both thsie is Uke, if it be well con- 
sidered. 

The ad3 of Faith conecrnirig thefc prbtnifes, be thcfc 
and fuch like. 

Firft, It acquaints a man w ith his emptineflc of grace, 
the ftrcngth of his inbred corruptions, how dccpc they 
have eaten, how faft they fticke, how unable he is to cru- 
cific his ihprdinate affcdions, or to repaire the decayed 
Image of God in him, and that he is in wofull cafejunleflc 
tFic Lord put to his helping hand. Faith in this ad: doth 
not properly worke upon the promife, but prepares the 
heart the eunto. And fare it is a worthy Icflbn : • for the 
fcrious thought of this matter is exceeding forcibltto 
abafe and humble him in his owne tyts, and fo wholy 
to drive him out ofhimfclfe. For he perceiveth, he is as 
ftrongly bound by the tyrannic of {:n to perpctuall fla- 
vcrie, as by the guilt offm to the danger of condemna- 
tion. CouM he get pardon for finne, what would this 
profit, fo long as he lieth ftill under the power and domi- 
nioH of fin, from which he hath no ability to deliver his 
foule. If a man labour of fome painchill, loathfomc.incu- 
rable difeafe, though in many things he be advanced, this 
will pull downc conceits of greatnefle : and when a 
Chriftian comes to fee, how many dangerous, noyfome 
fpirituall difeafcs he laboureth under, he is not hghtly af- 
fe^ed with it : no, he abhorreth himfelfe, and crieth 
out, O mifernble wretch that I amy n>hojhall deliver mec 
from this body of death, how fliall I be cured of thcfe ma- 
ladies. 

Hereby alfohe is drawn in al his purpofcs & refolutions 

to denie himfclfe,and to rclie upon the power of the Lord, 

R onely 



241 



The aBs of faith 
about the promi- 
fe! offanifijica 
tion. 



Rom.7.J4. 



242 



Pfal.ii9.8. 

Pfal.115.31, 

Verfe 3 ^, 



Veife 3 5, 
Pral.i7.j. 



2. 



Cani5.<?,73 8. 



fF^4^ /> is to live ky Faith tmching 

whoonlyremaines vidtorious. He purpofcth,but through 
the might oT God : which caufcth earneft and hearty 
prayer, to be ftrcngthened unto, and eftabliflisd in that 
which is good. / will ksepe thy fidtutes : O forfake me 
not utterly. I havefiacke unto thyTeftimonies: O Lord^ 
pfit me not to Jhame. I will rnnne the way of thy Com- 
mandements, when thou /halt enlarge my heart. Teach 
«»<?, O Lordj the way of thy fiatmeSy and I Jhall k^epe it 
ttnto the end. Give mee tinder (landing and I fl/all keepe 
thy Law^yea, I will objerve it with my whole heart, U^ak^ 
me togoe in the path of thy Commandements, for therein 
doe I delight. Incline my heart to thy teflimonies, and not 
to coveto/tfhejfe, . Hold up my goings in thy paths, that my 
footflepsflip net, Purpofes thus grounded bring forth holy 
performances : but when they are taken up without con- 
fideration of our frailtie, and we rclie upon Chrift for 
his grace awd affiftance, they quickly vaniih and come to 
nothing. In the time of fickncfle, danger, difgrace, we 
make faircpromifcs to amend what is amiflc,and reforme 
things out of order; but when the rod is removed,{liortly 
all \s cleane forgotten. What may be the reafon? Weftand 
upon our owne feet, prefume to goe alone, of our felv^es, 
by our owne ftrength, and then no marvell if we fall and 
catch many a knocke. . y 

. Secondly, It fhewes where, the ftrength is to'bfi had 
which we want; and ftirres up to a confcionable, diligent 
and conftantufe of themeancs of grace, that God hath 
ordained ; but lookes up to him for a blcffing, and reftcth 
not in the meanes. Faith is ever hungry^ fenfible of want 
and emptineflc, and therefore attends upon the Lord in 
theufc of all fuch meanes, whereby he is pleafcd to con- 
veigh Chrift unto us for our fpirituall filling. The labo- 
rious Bee IS early abroad to gather,when there is an hony- 
faM : and faith is early awake to waite upon the Lord m 
his ordinances, when he fhowres his bleflings upon his 
people. But it knoweth to diftinguifh betwixt the ordi- 
nances^ in and by which grace is obtained, and the author 

and 



thefromifes of San6iijicationydcc. 



.245 



and Giver of it. And this urgcth the Believer, earncftly to 
beg the blcfling ot God upon his ownc ordinances, with- 
out which they cannot avail c us. 

Thirdly, It incitcth to an holy improvement of what 
graces he hath received already, as th« ready way to have 
them incrcafcd, God beftoweth his gifts of grace in moft 
plcntifull meafure,upon them that are mofl: carefull to put 
them forth to advantage. To him that hath, that is, that 
ufcth well what he hath received, (haU bee given, and hee 
Jhallhsve in abundance, Grace is given freely, hot defer- 
ved by workes : but by the appointment of God, he that 
would increafc therein , mu*!! religioufly imploy what he 
poflcfleth. Men increafe their fubftance by labour and 
paincs, their learning by diligence : and he that bed: im- 
proveth graces received, (Kail moft abound therein. 

Fourthly, It fighteth couragioufly againft (in, and cricth 
inftantly to the Lord for helpc. Faith will not yceld to cor- 
ruption,hethe combate never fo bote and fierJe^caufe it 
apprehends viftory ; neither will it give the Lord teft, 
bccaufe it is fcnfible of want, and wcarie of fin. Cteaiif 
in meea cfcane hearty God, and renew a ri^ht Spirit with- 
in me. 

'iJ^iftlyi It fubmitteth willingly to what courfe the 
lord is pleafed to take for the crucifying bf finne, and 
bealing^ of our nature. Looke as the patient yeeldcth 
himfelfe unto the Phyfician to be dieted, purged, or lan- 
ced, for the curing of his raaladies,and recovery of health: 
fo doth the foulc refigne it felfe by faith into the hands of 
God the fpirituall Phyfician of the foulc, who onely is a^ 
ble to heile alldifeafes, to be dieted, purged, excrcifed" as 
feemeth beft unto his heavenly wifdome, onely it defires 
that fpirituall maladies may be removed, and health reco- 
vered. 

Sixtly, Faith is the band or finew whereby we arc tied 
untoChrift the fountainc of grace, and the pipe vvhireby 
grace is conveyed from him into the foule. Looke what 
a full treafury of all forts of graces Chrift hath ftorcd up 

R2 



Luke. I ^.1(5. 

Matih.s j.ta. 



m 



4. 



Flal.ji.io, 



6:. 



A(fts.if.9. 



244 



what it is to Iwe hf Fmth con aymng 



in bim,taith draw eth and dcrivcth them out of bis fulncffc 
lohn,!. i^. ! to tbc u(c oCe^ch ievctaU Cbriftian, tvt^ grace for grace, 
joh.i5.i,f,^viItfctchethfap from the root Chrift, which maketheve- 
' fy jtrpe bring forth fruit in its kind, every Chriftian in his 
ownc calling. As water brought by pipes from the foun- 
tainc to' the cocke, doth conric fatter or flower, as the 
pipes be wider or narrower, open or flopped.: (b grace 
. ; dotb il'ow froiH Chrift into our hearts more or lc{fe,as oiir 
tehisweaker or ftronger in degree and meafure. Faith 
opcneth (as it were) thepaffages of grace, that it may 
diftill-more plentifully upon u"?. And thus by fetching fu- 
peraaturall efficacie from the death, aaJ UfeofGhrift, it 
ebangeth the hcart,creates arid infufeth new principles of 
aiflion, begctt'eth a plyable wiilingnefTe unto every thing 
that is good, and conveigheth both will and ability there- 
unto : as the medicine curing the virions ftomacke, and 
rcftoring it to health, makes it long for wholfomc meatc, 
as bsf jrc for coales and ^^{hcs. By tlic predous promifcs 
j^hich we -taye from God f whcnthey are ours by feith ) 
we are made partakers of the divine nature, or the graces 
ofthcHolyGhoft. . 

The prepoflerous care and travell of marly wel-affec^edy I 

is to be pittie^i who ftudic the prgdife of this or that 

V'^rtu©, neglft^ipg thi^.tardioaU aed' radicall vertue ; as if; 

^en, i^ould.wa^er all the.branches cf a Tree, and not the 

root* Faine would they abound and fhinein patience, 

meckneflej zeale, ye; eftablilli and root not themfclves in 

faith, that flhould nidintaioc .all tVe reft. Jf water come 

not to the xofcke, we ofc to opca or ainend the pipes or 

leadcs that ^Onvfigh n from the fpring : Chrift is the 

j wcl- fpring of grace ; if we would have our wants fup- 

I plied, we muft bbour ftcdfaftly to believe. All defedts in 

I fanftification Oiuft admonifh us to lookc to our faith. 

|'[fhirfi4riv€s men totbefpringsofwater; coldforceth 

|hei?i CQ/the fire ; wca^n^ or wtnt of grace fhould move 

Isfay 5j.t. us'tocome unto Chrift by a lively faith. Oh^ every one 

tkoP thirfiith come jee to the waters. To give way to 

doubting [ 



iPet.f.4. 



The true csufe 
yghy rnei^ labour 
in va'tntto pra- 
£iife fome pa.rtU 
ealar venue. 



thefr^tmfts ofSmBifiuumt 56Ui • 



doubting bcoafe die graces o( Gods Sf tfk be weacke and 
gjcble in as^ is as if a -imn feould teflile &3* catc^ be.ci^<? he 
iif^iftt iorwantoffaftcnance. ^ -■' '■ -'■ :'•'•'. 

Seventhly,True faittiftirrcch up to thankftilncffc for the 
beginning of San(^iftcatian./f^4«% God thrmgh Uftts 
Chrifi oHr Lord,S9 then with the mlnde Imj felfeferve the 
L4W ofQvdi The leaft meafurc of feridtlFy ing gr-ace h m it 
felfe m onfpcakeable bencfir, confidcritig tfie poyipn q\ 
our corrupt nature ; and alfo a pledge of ftitufc favours to 
be received, till the worke bee perfc<5ted. God. in great 
wifdoinc powrcth tbe graces of bis Spirit upon us by de- 
grecMnddotfailot pcitie^ly i^iiiflifieiis at^nces ^e^| we 
flioi^kl forget wHat great cbings he doth fb.r us iii'fpfjgi- 
viag our &ly trefpades, ana ea¥ihg the gHeVplis' and 
loathforae diieafes oFbur poUated foules : butthe begiij- 
ning of fand:ification is an carneft of further grace to bee 
vouchfafcd, till tbe worke be finifhcd to the praife of h/s 
grace, which doth^ppeai-ekheiilpkylp that the'gifta af 
gr^e*ar.ccoinsDU3ic^t?ed by degrtes/" •;'•"• ''^^-'^'Y, -^^^'\ 

The way or meancs^ whereby a Chriftiatl may ftifte tip 
his faith' to believe that God will fantflific him, whence 
fceih nothing but chraldome and fin prevailing^ahdiedeth 
lathing but dcadaeffc-crfheartiis thR' ''^ -'/-"■' -'■i^-,'^ -/-'";' 

Firft, he muft bewaHebis fjpici'uairriifeihctef th?alr' 
dpme.^d vaflilage under (innc; acknowlccfgittg ' hrslna- 
D^lity t9 free and ddivet bimfelte. Into what mii^dry aind 
bondage have Ibroughtmy felfe. Thou Lord maieft n^e 
bolyipurc,and uprighc : sBut by finne I fold my felf. unto 
the itr vice of rfinhcii froMi \\'Hi^h'1t6 ^is'ti^-fenViot^^et 
deliverance : .Evatyi faculty of foulcisdecfply infec^ejl 
with that contagious leprofie | the Mind is blindcvaiilc, 
foolidi ; the will perverfe and rebellious : all the a^ci^l^ 
qns out of order ii^t-c is 4iothipg wholpor found wi^h- 
inmCbNigJat and (^^Bdw Jpd^>Jed witfr'^'ifoH 'motiphs^ 
Thp dcrires;ofitiy'iiniiuU W^urf ^be^ f rftro^g:and6feV/i4 
ling, that I am carried ftead-long to that whi'cb is Sv^t' 
The body is wcarie afccr lab^^or; nn^ requires '•r'iJft, t5tit 

. R 3 fin 



245 



7. 



I Cor. 1,9. 

I TheC f .24. 
Rom 11.29 



The meaner to 
fiirreup 10 be- 
lieve that Goi 
iviU (tuSlifie, 
tvhen foe fee 
H9tbi/ig but 
tbraldome. 
Z. 



24^ 



what it is telweb^ Fdth tmching 



\ % is ever ftirring, never quiet, no not when occafibns 
j W^w^nting. And that it might appeare out of raeafurc 
it takes occafionby the comEnandement, it refi- 



Romj.iif.. 



Rom*7**Kt 



fteth the good motions of the Spirit, it difinableth to evc- 

]cy good worke,it difFufeth its venome into every adion, 

and leadeth captive to the committing of (innc againft 

iinowledge and confciencc. The curfed earth is not fo apt 

to be over-grovirnc with wecdes, bryars, thornes and 

thiftles, as the foule with lufts, pafTtons, diftcmpers, 

worldly cares , and finfull delights. The law oi the flefh 

rebcllcth againil the law of the minde/ and carrieth with 

violence to the workes of darkencffe. The Gally-flaves 

condition is very hafd and miferable : but the fpirituall 

bond-flaveis in farre worfe eftate. No drudgery fo bafc 

as the ferviceof fin, no Tyrant focruellas fin, which 

allowes no refpite, or time of refreftiing. O mifer/ihU 

man that lam^ who [hall deliver nte fiom this ctbminion 

of fin ^ thkbodie of deaths I have deeply defiled my 

felreby tranfgreflion, but have no power to clenfcmy 

heart; OLord, I have defaced thine Image, but cannot 

repaire it : I have ycelded the powers of my foule to the 

obedience offin.and now I would caft off that fubje^ion 

andbreakethofcfnarca, lam altogether unfufficient for 

it. J^hen Imotdd doe. yeell, tviUis ■prefent with tnee i but 

I findc no meaner ta per f eft what I dcfire. I cannot dcfirc 

good, my will is fbin bondage ; I am notable to craw'e 

about the doing of that which is good, fuch h my fcc- 

^leneflc ibiit Ivi^antnoftrengtb tothat which is evill, I 

ailJiaptahdriCadyjtpgpeaftray; lam invironedaAdbcfet 

vvith.fip on every ^ac ; oh^ , when Ihall I Be fct at liberty/ 

^hat Jjiiight doc the work of God,ahd run the race of his 

CoQvmandements. ■ 

* Se,condly,He muft lookc to the gracc,truth,and power; | 
of GQ,i^,,whohatb;prpmife<J t<3fanfiific ; to the fuUneffe 
andXufificiencie io Chrift, the foqwtainc of grace)" 

Hc.whohath fpoken this to me,Hold. me, and 'I willfet 
x^%c Tree, twill circumcife tby heart, ' wafla it, purge rt, 
''- ' ■ ■ - ^ '/ beale 



thefromifes of SanBification,^c, 



healc it of all fickncffes and infirmities : be that hath fpo- 
kcn itjis God Almighty, who giveth Being to all vifiblc 
creatures .and that invifible world of Spirits : who calletb 
the; titngs that are not,as if they wwe : who if there were 
no print of thefe thingsin mCjcan works and create them 
glorioufly, as at firft he drew this excellent frame of the 
world out of that confufed lumpe, or Maffe which hee 
made of nothing. And as he is great in power, fo is he 
rich in mercy, aboundant in goodneffe and truth ; as ready 
and faithfull to keepe, as he was free to^ make the pro- 
mifc. His grace is unfearchable, his Word purer thenfii- 
verfeven times refined, Inmyfclfc lam full of finne, 
barren , and dcftitute of grace: but Ghrillis an dvcrw 
flowing foiihtalne,who hath plentifully filled all that Bc- 
Ueyc. A'l the faithfull have dra wne of his fullneflc, and 
yet his ftore is no whit diminidicd. O my foulejtruH: thou 
intheLord,andthou{haltbe purged from thy fi-lthineffe, 
replenifhed with his grace, loe, he calleth the thirftie, 
who be deftituta of all fap and fruit of gracejtocome^nto 
him, that they may be refrcflicd. The Saints, who havd: 
bee:ne moft enriched with variety of graces, wercty na- 
ture as poore and dcftitute as thou art. What they had, 
they received by faith:Believe as they did.and fpeed with 
them. Why crieft thou out diftruftfuUy by reafon of thy 
barrenneffe^Doth the dreaming fountaine denie water to 
the thirfty traveller ? No more doth Chrift to the emptic 
parched foule, that comes unto him. Thou haft no grace 
of thy felfe : cleave unto him and thou flialtwant none 
that may be for thy good.Hc filleth the empty, and fatisff- 
cth the poore, that he might be acknowledged the well- 
fpring of all grace and goodneffe. 

Thirdly,He muft pray inftantly unto the Lord for fan- 
dlifying grace. Faith obtaineth, as a poore petitioner, 
what the Lord promifeth in fpeciall favour: nor can it be- 
lieve longer, then itprayeth virtually ©r aftually. O 
Lord, thou haft promifcd to powre vaterupon thethirfir, 
and rivers upe ft the dry grottiid : I pray ihcc, wafli mee 
R 4 throughly 



247 



Efay 44.J.& 

I 5-7. 
loel z.^S. 



3^4^ 



Zccb,!^ .1. 



what it is totwebj IP mth cmcerning 

throughly from my filthincffe, and water me bountifal-' 
ly Avith the dew ot thy grace, which may coolc and allay 
the fcorchingheatc ot-eanc. r^<7« hafi opemd afeunuine 
to the hottfe of'Dz'^xdy andtv the inhabitants «/ Jcrdfelem 
f«rfin and for uncleAnnep : let the ftrcames thereof flow 
upon my drie and barren foulc, that it may be fruitfull in 
tbcWorkcs of holiBeflc. O put thy good Spirit into me, 
which may be as a fountainc of living waters^ ipringin^' 
unto eternayi? life, ;; ^Jj^ho' ;;in lutb:.uoQ::^^-:vni:M\j: ■ 

Fourthly, Itis good to nodvc andquitkfcifi'fhiBiatt 
quietly to reft in the promife,and rc/oycc in hope. Waite 
on the Lord, O my fbule, and be glad in him : fbr hcc 
hath given Chrift to be thy Saniaification. Me isap^oin*^ 
ted: to be the bt^mntx and finiflaer of thy holiiie{fe ; and 
furely he vJll not leave that worke'impcrfe(5l',Whcretint6 
he is ordained of the Father. Were the progre^e of that 
building, committed to thy care and over-fight, there 
might be caule of feare;but fince it is laid upon him,thinc 
onely.flnd alUfufficjent Redeemer, there is no place for 
doubting' , Hol3 him taft, and thou arc fafe. Lord in- 
creafc my faitb^nd kcepe me dole unto thee in believing 
for evermore. 



CHAP. HIT. 



^ ^ 11--*!!:}i ! n ' ^'T !■ '- 



A 



PFhat it is to live by Faith concfvnivig the 
promljes ofeverlajting life, 

S if it were a light thing, that God (hould forgive 
i all our finncs, and hcale ©ur infirmities, he hath gi* 
Pfal.103.5j4. ^ vcn promife of everlafting life to be conferred of his rich 
EternaUUfe is , grace Upon them that believe in Jefos Chrift. God/o loved 
\promifei ^ I the recrldythathe gave his only begotten Son^that whofoever 
belie vet h in him^/houldfiotperijhjbut have ever lading lift. 
And Chrift hath purchafed life everlafting no leffc for us, 

then 



thefremifes ofcverlafling life. 



then righteoufnedc : Bj the blend of lejus we may be bold 
t9 enter into the Hoiiefi, hy the new and living vfinj which he 
hath ccnfe crated for m, through the vaiUy that is ttfsy^ Uis 
fiefij. For this cauje he is the x^Mediatour of the New Ter 
flamenty that bj meanes of death, for the redemption of the 
tranjgrejfionsy that were under the firfi Tefiament, they 
T»hieh are caUedy might receive the fromife of etern^U in- 
heyitani^. And therefore as he is faid to have made recon- 
i^iliatim for intcjMty, and to have brought in everla- 
fiing right e oufneffe : lb alfo to have aboltjhed death, and 
brought life and immortality to light. And he makes pro- 
mifeof cverlafting life to them that heare and obey his 
VC^ce., * tJVfyjheefe heare my voice, axdl k»ors> them,a»d 
theyfoUo'}ffne ; ^nd I give unto them eternall hfe^and they 
Jhail never ferijh,^ In the Goi^diivjc findc ctcrnall life 
promifqd upon condition of faith in Chrift ; 'Believe on 
the Lord lejtu Chrifi y and thou fhalt beefaved : and what 
God proiiyfejh of free grace, that fei^h ^otJ* c^rtainely 

receive.- .;v..r '<^ '•,{^:J .^ • S^X .-ri.-/.'' ^M ■'.■^ 

Life is prpmifcd upon condition of Faith,and by faith 
we arc quickened, entitled unto, and made partakers of 
life eve rlafting. Hee that believeth en the Sonne Joath ever- 
lajling life' I He that heareibwy JVord, <md believeth on him 
thatfent me, hath everlafiing life, andfljAll net come inta 
coHA'emnatienJfUt kath pa^edfiom death te life. , This is the 
reeordythat god hath given to M eternaU life^ and this life 
is in his Sonne, Hee that hath the Sonne hath life ; and hee 
that hath net theSen^hath not life. If once we be brought 
to believe in. Chrift, life etcrnallis then be^un in us. This 
is life eternall.to know (that rs, with the knowledge of 
faiths thee to be the onely true God, and lefus (^hrifi whom 
thou hafijent. for Chrift is our life,whe dwels in our hearts 
by faith: and therefore whofocver believe inhim, have 
life through and with him. And this life is not another, 
} but one in fubftancc with that b^tflcd and glorious eftare, 
I which the Saints er joy in Heaven, though different in 
degree Againc, wh^ firft wc believe, then wee are in- 
^ tituled 



^9 



Heb.io. 19^20. 
Heb.9,ij. 



iJan.9.24. 
1 T.m.i.io, 



aJ'jH.io 27, 

Ads \f>.i r, 
Ioh.6.40,!& 
10.3 I. 
I Joh,2.zj. 



lohn J.24. 

I Job, 5.1 1, 
12, ij. 

Jokn 17.5. 



Col. J, 4. 



250 



1 Pet. 1,3,4. 



Ttt.3.7. 



Rom.^.i®, 
Vecfe 17. 



Ephcf.r.6. 

lohni.ii. 

lIok,j.i,2. 

Gal.3.25t£9> 
Gal.4.4,^ 



Varfe 7. 



Roai.8.14,' 



Verfs 17. 
^Heb.ii,*?. 

Therefore »ee 



What.it is to live by Fdth concerning 

tiduled to life everlaftmg,and fo have the accompliflimcnt 
ot glory in refpedl of right and proprietie. Btejfedh the 
God ahd Father eifo fir Lordlefm Chri^, which aecerding 
to his ah Undmt mercy, hath begotten m againe unto a live» 
ly hopCf by the refurre^ion of lefta from the dead, To an 
inheritance incorrf/ptibie, and undefiUd, and that fadeth 
not away. That hing jftfiified by his grace, wee Jhonld 
bee-made heires according to the hope of eternall life. For 
if when we were enemiet, wee were reconciled to Gody by 
the death of his Sonne : mt*eh more being reconcUed, wee 
P$aUbefavedbyhis life. They which receive abundance 
of grace y and of the gift of righteoufnejfe, Jhall raigne in 
life by one lefm C'hrifi. To an earthly inheritance title 
folio weth upon the birth; to the fpirituall upon our 
Adoption. But when we believe in Chrift, wc are then 
made the Sonnes of God by Adoption, yea, fonncs ae- 
vepted. To 04 many a£ received him, to them gave heefri- 
viledge to become the Sonnes of Qod^ even to them that 
belteve on his Name. Behold, what manner of love the 
Father hath bsfiowed upon w, that wee Jhbuld bee called 
the Sonnes of (jod, 'Beloved^ now are wee the Sonnes of 
God, and it doth not yet appe are, what wee Jhall bee. For 
ye are all the children of God by faith in Chrift lef pis yt^c^ 
iy4nd if yee bee Chrifis, then are yee Abrahams feed, 
and heires according to the promife. tvhen the fHilneffe if 
time was come^ God fent forth his Sonne made of a 
wory9an,~made under the Law, to redeeme them that are 
Under the Law, that we might receive the adoption of Sons, 
wherefore thou art no more afervantj>ut afonne ; and if a 
fonne, then an heire of God through Chrifi, For as many as 
are led by the Spirit of God, they are the Sonnes of God. 
&c. liyindif children, then heires, heires of God, and jojnt 
heires with Chrifi, And for this caufe the faithfiill arc ^1- 
led ^ the Church of the fir ft begotten whofe names are 
written in Heaven.^ovf if eternall life be promifed in the 
Gofpelljpurchafed by Clirift,and in right and title belong 
unto the faithfull, we may conclude k is our part and 
" duty 



thefrcmifes ofeverlafimg life. 



duty to believe in God through JcfusIChrift, as well for 
the obtaining of eternall life to be given of grace, as the 
forgivcncffc of our fins. 

And this is receffary, that wee might with the more 
quietncffc of mindc beare the af fiiftions and worldly lof- 
fes, the troubles and perfecution, which befall us in 
this world, Caft not away therefore jour confidencCt 
which hath great recompence of reward : for jee have 
need <f fatienccy that after yee have done the mil of God, 
jee might receive the promife. ^^braham is commended 
in Scripture, that he left bis friends, his native Conntrie, 
and allearthly hopes there, which were not fniall, and 
came to dwell in aftrange Land, as aPiigrime, whersc 
he fufitrcd many injuries, andwasexcreifed witbniany , 
troubles of fundrie kinds ; all which bee endured with 
invincible patience, by the hope and deiire of eternall 
Iifc,wd that heavenly Countrie whereunco he was called. 
The hope of heaven is the' firme and fure anchor of the 
foulc, to fuHainc and ftablifh it, that it be not tofled 
up and downe, and over-whelmed with reproaches and 
indignities offered, with the worldly loffes and miferics 
of this life. 

. vlt ferves dlfo to eftablifli our hearts againft fundry 
worldly cares and feareS; affcdation of earthly grcatneflfe. 
and carking for earthly neceffariesi For why fliouldwe 
admire the glory of this life, when moft excellent glory, 
riches and happines j'oyned with it, is prepared and given 
u§ through faith in Chrift? Why fliould wee doubt of 
earthly neceflaries, when God hath bequeathed unto ua 
an heavenly kingdome. Faith in Chrift, to receive anin«* 
corruptible crowne of glory; will moderate defires o^ 
earthly things, that we Cball neither admire, nor afpire 
after grcatthings below, nor bafcly diftruft the Lord for 
^Mpplycjfwbatheknowesmeete and convenient for us^ 
Pearef\cit,iktleflpcke^feriiti$yoftr'Fathers goodpleafAirf~t'9 
givey OH the Kingdome, 
: If wetepc Heaven in our eye, and looke to the high 
-'>■'- price , 



251 



It is very »c» 
cejfaty to be- 
lieve it, 

I. 

Heb. 10,3 5^36 



Htcb.:^ » '8)9,5 



Heb.6. 



i^* 



J,n- 



Luke i» 32. 



252 



what it is t» live bj F Aithconeemng 






Tbz a&s of 
faith cancer- 
ning ihefefrO' 
mifis, 
I. 

* EpheC».8. 



Afts i6 31. 

Rom. 1.2. 
Rom.io.io. 



Rom.4.1^. 



R«m.ie.iXt 



price of our ealUng, wee flialL fight couragioufljr, and 
mnnewkh paciericc, notwithttanding all oppoficioa, 
Whac can daunchim in the waics of godline^, or make 
hiinflackehispace, wbortinnes toobtainc noca corrup- 
tible, but an incorrupnbie crownc? By faith fome were 
tortured^ not acceptm^ deliverance, that they Jnighi ffb" 
taine a htter refHrreUUn, Let m rHnne rvUh patience unto 
the raee thatisfet befor^e Uf,Lr>9kj^ȣ onto leftts, the Aftthor 
and flnljher of onr faith y whofor the joy that reoi fet bef^rt 
him^end^red the cro^ffyde^ljlngthe (hamey andidfetdowneat 
the right hand of the throne of God ^ 

The adts of faith concerning thcfe promifcs bee 
thefc. 

Firft, As an humble petitioner it rccciveth andlayeth 
hold upon falvation it fclfc pro mifed, which wee have of 
©ods grace, as well as any benefit tending thereunto. As 
we are /unified by faith, fo we are * favedhy faith 5 not 
inrefpedot prcfent falvation o^r redemption, whereof 
here we afe partakers, but in rcfped of glorification to 
comf ,irt due time to be revealed Believe on the JL^rdUftU^ 
1 and thou fialt beefaved. By faith wee have accede intflthi^ 
\ grace fVf herein we fiand, and rejoyce in the hope of glory. 
When the Apoftle faith, With the heart Man ielieveth 
ftuto righteoujfhejfe, and with the mouth confeffionu made 
«»^o/^/t;<«^«s«.Hc doth not fodiftin^uiflithefc two, as if 
faith were the caufe ofrighteoufneffejconfcflion of falva- 
tion ; or as if faith were fafficieot to rightcoufneffe, but 
not to falvation : for he had often faid, thatweM'efaved 
by f^th, that the pronitfeiihy faith: But he defctibcs the 
qualification of that faith which /uftifycth and faveth, 
namely, that it is a ftedfaft affiance, that flyeth to God by 
hearty fupplication, and breaketh forth into profefldon of 
Gods name. The promife is, fVhofoever fltaU cail4tppnthe 
name of the Lordfhall btfaved : and faith herein jflygthitb 
the throne of grace with ardent fupplications, aftd iayeth 
hold of falvation promifed of grace. 

Secondly ,-Faith doth not begin to apprehend life, and 

then 



thefrcmifes ofe^erlafting life. 



then leave it to workcs,that wc tnigbt attainc the accom- 
pliflimcntby them, but it doth ever reft upon the pro- 
miiZy untill wc come to enjoy it. Heaven is an inheri- 
tance freely vouchfafed to the adopted fonres of God, 
whofe intercft unto it commeth by believing, not by wor- 
kms,.Th£glft Qfgodiseternall life tkrefigh lefus Chrifi ettr 
L9rd : and if it be a gift of meerc favour, it cannot be of 
workcs. If th€ inheritance be of the Law, it i^ no more of 
promife: hut God gave it to Abraham by promife. And 
that which God will do about his children in the day of 
judgement, is called mercy ; The Lordjheyv mercy to One- 
fiphorus m that day. The immediate caufe of life is Gods 
grace, as the immediate caufe of death is (in. But if life 
be of grace, it is by faith. * We are kept by the fewer of 
Godthr^tfigh faith untefahation. So that our faith never 
gives over, till we come to beadually pofleff<-d of the 
ioimortall and undcfiled inheritance, refcrved for us in 

Heaven. . \ . . 

Thirdly, By faith we receive thepromifed Spirir,is the 
carneftof our inheritance, untill the redemption of the 
purchafed poi!e0ion. Becanfeye arefonms, Godhathfent 
forth the Spirit ofhii Son into your hearts, cry if^g, Abba Fa- 
ther, The Holy Ghoft doth firft infufe the grace of faith 
into our hearts, whereby we believe : but believing, and 
being made the fonnes of GodjWercceive theSpirit more 
fblly and n^anifeftly, dwelling in us to fanaification , and 
aiTurance of our redemption. By the benefit of th; holy 
Ghoft fmh fpriwgetb in ws, by which faith the abundance 
ofthefelfc iame (pvrit isincreafed; and fo of a greater 
faith is ftill ma e a greater increafe of the Spirit. /« whow 
after jee believed^jee yverefealed with the Spirit cfprowife. 
He tkat helieveth, otit of his beUy jhall fow rivers of living 
y^t4r. Afld .tbcfc .gifts of the Spirit, which we receive by 
i faifb frQi^Chtitar Headarc the beginningsof that glo- 
rioQS life we expefi: and lookc for ; one in fub(hncc,difl:c- 
rentm degrees ; and according to the mcafure of grace 
received, fp is the life of glory begun in us. 

Fourthly, 



253 



Rom.6.25 

Galj.iS. 

2 Tim. 1. 1 8. 
Rom. 5 21. 

* 1 Pet.i.j^ 



Gal.3.14, 

Gal4.6, 
Rom. S. If. 



Ephcf. 1.15. 
John. 7. 3 8. 



254 



M.3.tth.6.n. 



Rom.S.ij. 
Gai.5.8. 



Heb.ii.i4. 



I Tim.^,17, 
18,15. 



ludc Vcrfe xo 

tu 

Jam, I. It. X J". 

Matth,25.34. 

3 5' 



Pfte k is to live by Vdth comernlng 

Fourthly, Faith in the promifes of evcrlafting life, Ica- 
dcth forward ifi the pathcs of peace and righteoufncffc : 
It mortifycth corruption, ftudyeth holineflc, raifcth the 
heart to things above, and direc^leth the convcrfation 
according to the pollicic of the new Itrnfulem, Life 
etcrnall is not given for workcs, but it is the good plea- 
fureofGod, that his children fhould be holy andcxcr- 
cife themfclves in all good workcs. Ifjes through the S ft- 
rit doe msrtifie the deeds afthe body, jee {hAtl live, Hee that 
fowethto the Spirit, JhAllofthe Spirit reape life everUfling» 
Blejfedare the pure in heart, for they fbullfee God, FoUorv 
peace with all m? ft, andholine^e^ tvithout which nomanfhall 
fee the Lord, Charge them that be rich in this -merldy that 
they be not high minded^nor trnfi: in uncertaine riches, hut in 
the living Gody who giveth richly alt things to enjoy. That I 
they doe good, that they be rich in goodworkfs, ready to difiri- ! 
bfite, tvt/ling to communicate ; Laying up in fiore for them- | 
fehesagood foundation againfi the time to come, that they 
may lay hold on eternal life, Butyee beloved, building up 
your felves, in your mo^ holy faith, praying in the holy 
Ghofl, k^eepe your felves in the love of God, looking for the i 
mereie of our Lord lefut Chrift unto eternaU life. Come \ 
yee bleffed of my Father, inherit the l^ngdome prepared j 
for you from the foundation of the w oriel. For Iwoi hungred, \ 
and^eegave me meate^c^c, Thcfe and fuch like paflfagcs of [ 
Scripture flicw,not the caufc why,but the qualification of , 
the pcrfons unto whom ; not how it is defer vcd,but what j 
doth precede the beftowing of life etcrnall. And faith, • 
that lookcth for that bleffed hope, and layeth hold upon 
the promife of that heavenly and incorruptible inheri- 
tance, liftcth up the heart into Heaven , kindlcth love, 
inflamcth with zeale, encourageth againft difficulties, , 
andinciteth to run the way of Gods Cotnmandenacnts. 
If probable hope of great advantage drawcs on the 
Merchant to undertake a long and tedious voyage by 
Sea, notwithftanding the many cafualties and perils 
wherewith it is befet : faith in the affurcd promifcs of 

God 



thprcmfes of cverlafting life. 



God concerning falvation, will fct a man forward in his 
Cbriftian journey, hold him on in his way with courage 
and chearefiilnefle 5 and hearten him to the workesof 
godlincffe, notwithftanding the temptations of Sathan, 
the allurements of the world , or oppofitions of the 
flcflitothecontrarie. Ottrconverfattonisin Heavenyi^ofn 
yvhence alfo wee looke for the Saviour^ the Lord lefm 
C^ri^, Wee give thankes to (jod^ And Since wee heard of 
your faith in Chrifl leftu, and of the love yvhichjee have to 
all the Saints i For the hope which is laid up for yon in Hea- 
ven, By faith ^brahanty Ifaac, and lacobt confeffcd that 
they were pilgrimes and ftrangers on the earth, and ha- 
ving opportunity would nocreturnc into their own coun- 
trey, becaufe they defired a better countrey, that is, an 
heavenly. 

Fiftly, It fecketh to get our title confirmed and afTu- 
red to the confcience by evidence, and earncftjor pawne ; 
it exercifcth it fclfe upon the many gratious promifes, 
whereby God doth freely paflc it upon us, and earneftly 
beggcth the' powerful! effe^uall mhabitation of the Spi- 
rit to ftampe and imprint the Image of Chrift more and 
moreuponthe foulc ; it perufeth its evidence againe and 
:^ainc , and nourifheth the motions , ftirreth up the 
graces of the Spirit, which is tbc carnefl: pcnnie and 
icale of the promifed inheritance.If Men make an earthly 
purchafe,they will fpare no coft or labour to get it affured, 
they will have good evidence,fine and recoveric,and take 
what courfe in time may exempt it from claime j and 
faith receiving the promifc of this pur chafed mherirance, 
will not reft in uncertainties or prefumptions, but doth 
travaile to have it afTuredly pafled and made upon the 
foulc. 

Sixtly, It ftriveth to enter the poffeffion of this hea- 
venly kingdomc by degrees. Men that purchafc an inheri- 
tance to come in hereafter, they are glad if any part fall 
into their hands for the prefcnt, or if they can get fomc 
by parcels, before the whole be pofTeflcd. Fulnefle of 



255 



Phil. 5 20. 
Col.i.3,4,5. 






Pfal.ii5.j,6. 



Phil. 3.10, 12. 
»3. 



2^6 



Whut it is to live hy Fmhiomiermng 



1' 

R.om.8,13. 



Phil.!.? 3. 



Cor. J I. 



t. 

ijoh J.I. 

Verft I. 
Verfe 14. 



glory is rcfervcd to the life to come : but the beginnings 
of glory, peace of confcicncc, Joy in the holy Ghoft, and 
fancftification of the Spirit, are vouchfeFcd here, Grace is 
the beginning of glory, and glory the perfeftion ofgracc^ 
According to the mcafurc of grace received, and as we 
grow up in Sandiiicationjfo we enter upon the poffefliorj 
of our ecernall ifihcritance. And true lively faith doth co- 
vet grace more and more, and draw unto ic feIf<lfro6i 
Chrifts fulneffc. ■-\'h\N*.^> 

Seventhly, It earne^ly defires and long^tb aft^r ^hc 
full accompli£hment of glory. «r [elva alfo which ha've 
the firfi Jruits of the Spirit, even rpee our felves gro4ine 
yvithin onr felves, waiting for the ^dopt'tott^ to wit, the j 
redemption of the Bodie. I deflre to depart^ and to bee 
relth Chrifi, which is farre better. Salvation is the elid of 
faith ; Heaven the habitation or home of the faithfull. 
For in this wegroane eameBly, dejiring to he cloathednpon 
with our hotife^ which is from 'Heaven. Naturall bodies 
move to their proper place ; all living things covet per- 
fcdiion in their kird : heaven is the proper place and con- 
dition of the faithfull, liFe everlafting the perfeftion of 1 
faith : therebre if faith bee lively, it longeth after the 
fruition of glory, and fiill pofleflion of the promifcd in- 
heritance. 

Eightly, It afTureth that we are made heires of ever «• 
lafting life, to which God of his grace will bring us in bis { 
time appointed. 'Behold what love the Father hath i 
heft owed up m hs, that wee jhould bee caUed the fonnescf 
God Beloved now are -wee the fonnes ofGod^ and it doth I 
not yet appear e what wee fhall bee : fVee know that wee have \ 
pa fed from dsath unto lifcy becaufe wee love the brethren ^ i 
Neither doth the manner of fpeaking favour of ought i 
but certainty, neither could it agree with the gravity of 
the Apoftle to fpeake fo indefinitely, fo indeterminately 
of that, whereof bee hid no certaine ground;, nofirmc 
refolution, hut onely fome likely gueflc, or conje^urall 
hope. And grant it of John, and the Apoftlcs, that they 

knew 



the fromijes efcverlafiing life. 



knew their ownc Adoption ; andwc mayinferrc, that 
this knowledge is a privilcdgcofal believers in their mca- 
fiirc, as well as tbeirs. For the faith whereby they were 
afluredjwas ordinary ; the grounds of afl'urance common 
to them with all true believers ; the benefit it felfs gcne- 
rall, not in any fpeciall manner appropriated. What pro- 
mifcs foever concerning life and happinefle were made to 
the Apotllesjthe fame are made to all believers, and con- 
firmed and fealed unto them after the fame manner. For 
they have all one God, one Chrift, one Spirit, they 
arc under one Covenant , and live by the fame faith. 
The Adoption of Believers is confirmed on Gods part un. 
to them by his word, fcalcs, oath, pledge and witneffe of 
his Spirit with the graces thereof: And what God fo 
liifficiently confirmeth, wc by faith may receive it : for 
faith inableth us to believe what God revealeth. 

Faith giveth aflurance, but every believer is not afliircd 
in bimfclfe,nor is any aflurance in this life fo certaine,that 
it is never intermixed , nor difturbed with doubtings. 
There is a ftatc in which faith flieweth it felfe, rather 
in carnefl: longings and pantings after mercy , then in 
certaine apprehension of it : there is a ftate of infan- 
cic, aftate of temptation and fpirituall conflid, in which 
the foule cannot attaine this certaintie and aflurance. And 
even in the growne and confirmed ftate the believer 
' rauft not looke to walke on fmoothly without any rubs, 
or to enjoy perfecfl aflurance without doubtings and 
aflaults. The aflurance of this believer is an aflurance ai- 
ming and ftriving after aflurance ; an aflurance wreftling 
and combating with many aflaults \ an aflurance which 
labours with continuall weakeneflc, and lookes not to 
come to perfeftion but by temptations. But of this be- 
fore. 

* God in great mercy doth vouchfafc to his Adopted 
fonnes many excellent royalties in this life. They arc 
moft precious unto him, H is chiefe trmfttre^ His lave for 
delights. His peculiar fedple^ the lot of his inherit Anccy 

S His 



257 



i Pet I.I. 

Rom.8.34,3J 



Ephcf.4.4,j,« 



& 77'7- 
Pfal.4i.y. 

& 4J.f. 

* Exod.X9.y. 

Pfal.13^4. 

Cant.7.6, 

Pfal.i6.y. 

Dent. J 1.9. 

Pfal.8j.3. 



258 I what it is to U vth'j fAith con arnlng 



Mai. J. 1 7. 
Zach.».8. 
Pfal. 108.6, 
& 117. z, 1 
Cant.8.6 . 
Eray,49.i6. 1 
Joh 14.23. 
lofli.i.^. 
Pral.109.31, 
& 111.5. 
pral.75.1j, 
pral.17.5. 
1 Sam. 2.9. 
Pfal.56.8. 
Matth.1c.30. 
Pfal.jS.p. 
Jer 3 1. 10. 
DcLU.33.29. 
\ Pet. 5. 10. 
Phil.4.19. 
Pfal.a6.2j6,7. 

lGcl.3.16. 

z Cor. 1.3. 

Pfal.j5.iE. 

Heb 13.11. 

Exod.19.46. 
i Rev.ai.3. 
I iChron.i^.^. 

pral.37.4 
& 145.19. 
Prov.10.24. 
Heb. 1.14. 
Pfal.34.7. 
iCoi-.3.z2,z3 
Heb 1.7.8. 
I Tim.4,z,3. 
Rom.8.17. 
Heb. 1.2. 
Jer.4(5.i8. 
ECiy.54.8. 



His chofeny His hidden snes, liis jewels. He that toucheth 
them, touchcth the apple of his eye. They arc his Belo- 
ved, as the fignct upon his right hand. He dwdlcth 
with them, he followeth them whither foever they goc ; 
he ftands at their right band, and holds them up by it, 
Hee covers them under his pavillion, he kcepes their 
fcete,he counts their wardringSjhe numbreth their haires, 
be observes their fighes, is moved with compaflion upon 
their complaints, he is the {hield of their helpe, the 
fword of their excellency, and the God of all grace, who 
will fiilfill all their necclfities. He is their hope, their 
fcelpc, their health, their rocke, their refuge, the Father 
of mercies and God of all confolation. He will teach 
them in the way that they (hould choofe, and make them 
perfed in good workes : He will eftabUftitbem-in every 
good word and workejhe will walk with tbcm,bis eye is 
ever upon them for good,& he will give them ibeir hearts 
dcfirc. They have the Angels of God to mmifterunto 
them for their fafcguard and proteftion j they have domi- 
nion over the creatures of the earth, and the free ufe of 
I them, both for ncccflity and delight. This is a true fay- 
ing j The charter anciently given by that ^reat Lord of 
all at our firft creation, touching the ufe of ;his creatures, 
was forfaited into the bands of the Doner by ^dams fall. 
But it is reftorcd and renewed by Chrift to them who arc 
honoured with the Adoption. The heircs of heaven arc 
the right inheritors of the earth. The Sonncs of God by 
Adoption,are Brethren and Cobeires with Chrift ,whom 
the Father hath appointed hcire of all things;: and hence 
arifeth unto them the holy ufe of the creatures, and mir i- 
ftery of the Angells. Arc chaftifements needfullor behove- 
full for them ? He will eerreB them in tneafure, for a mo^ 
ment^forgood^ to take away Hnne : but his loving ktndne^e 
he ■vpiUnot take from them.mr fujfer hi^faithfulneffe tofuHe. 
Heb/i2.io.ii Are they loaded with reproaches for righteoufnefTe 
Ier.i4v5. j ^|^g jk ^-^ ^^^.^^.^ of glory y and of Qod Jhall reB upon 

them. In a word whatfoever n^ay happen, ty^iJ things 



Efay.27.9. 
iPnU89.3i,?2 



h Pet.4,14. 



(hnli 



the promijes sfcverUpng life. 



JkaU rvurk^ together for the hefi unto them, 

Asd feeing God hath prepared and promifcd fuch ex- 
cellent privilcdgcs unto his children in this life, hence it 
is, that faith rcfteth upon his grace to receive from him 
whatfocver may b i good and profitable for them. O how 
^reat « the goodne^e , which th§si haji UUnffor them that 
feare thee : which thou hajf -wrought for them that trujhin 
thee, before the fa:>tngi of mttt ? Thm JhnU hide th^min the 
-ficret of thy frefcnce from the pride ofms^n : thoHjbalt ki^pe 
themfecretij inafAvilion,from the (Irife oftongw^s, Ho)» 
excellent is thy Uvinj ki»dne^e, Lord \ therefore the 
children of men put their tru^ under the [hadow of thy 
Tvingf, Thoujhitlt bee Abnniantly fAtMf.edrvhh the fatneffe 
efehy honfe: andthoH fhdt make them drinke of the river 
•f thy pJeafaret. The Lord ii my flteapheardy I fhallnot 
WAnt' Heejhutl leade hisflockl Hk^ ajhsaphe^rd : heejha/l 
gather the lambes with hisarme,and€ary them in his bofome^ 
tind fhAll gently lead thofe thttt are with young, W hat can 
they want, who have God to be their Father, to provide 
for them, and protefl them ; to bleflc them and dwell 
with them; to fuccour them, and fupply them with all 
necdftiU blefllngs fpirituall and bodily, iti ficteft feafon : 
* whofe care is open to their defires, ^ whofe compani- 
ons exceed the tcnderneffc of a mother, to her .fucking 
babe : <■ who hath chofen thiccn tobe his ownc proper 
good, which he lovcth, and keepeth in (lore for himfelfc 
and for fpeciall ufe. Thou Ifrael art my fervant, Jacob 
T»hom I have chofen, the feed of Abraham wj friend^ 
Thou whom I have taken from the ends pftheesrthy, anisi 
called thee from tbe.chiefe men thereof, an^ fatd tdnto 
thee ; Thou art my fervant, I have chofen thee,, and rtst. 
cafi thee away, Feare thou not y for I am with thee : Jtee 
not difmayed,for lam thy God: I will ^rengthen thee, yea 
Iwitlhelpe thee, yeayJwlll uphold thetwith ihe right hand, 
•f my righitoufhe^e. When the poore arid ntedie feeke 
watery and there is none y and their tongue faileth for thirfi, 
I the Lord wilt heart them , / the Lord of Ifrael will 

Si not 



-25P 



Rom.8.2,S. 
A£is of Faith 
that arife from 
tbepriviledges 
ofthegodly. 
I. 

Verfe zo. 
Pfal.S^.7. 



VcL-fe 8. 

PfaUj.i. 
Efay.4©.ii, 

Levk;2<?.jj. 
2Cor.6.i6. 



Mfa.4^.1f.i6 
* Deut.ij.2. 



Efiy.4 1.8.9, 



Verfe iQ. 



Verfc 17. 



26o 



Vcrfc J 8. 



3. 



Verfc ^. 



fiAl.t8.I.2, 



' Kal.4O.II. 



3. 






lFV(fe4f if is to U ve^y Fdth concermng 

not forjaks them, J wiM »fen rivers in the high fUces^ 
0id fount aines in the midfi ef the VAllcjes : I wilt m^ks 
the wi/dertteffe a foole of vfAter^ a»d the dry Undffrings 
efwoitr. 

Secondly, It pctitionctb inftantly for fkccour. For it 
fccth in God whatfocvcr it nccdeih ordegrctb, and will 
never ccafe to f cckc rclictc. The more confident it is to 
obtaine, the more importunate it will be in fuing. Oilc 
put to the fire caufeth the flame to afcend : 'and the promi- 
ics of hclpc and fuccour, received by faith, put life and 
vigour into the petitions of faith. Heare^ O Lord, when 
I cry with my voice : have mercy alfo upon mee. And ttn' 
-fwere mee. Hide not thy face fdrre from mee, put not thy 
fer^AHt 4WMy in anger : thou haH beene my he/pe, leave me 
noty neither forfaQ mee, O C^d ofmjjahation. Vnf 
thee will I cry y O Lord^ myroch^y he not fiUnt to me y lefi 
ifthoH he f tent tome, I become like them that goe downe 
into the pit. He are the voice ofmy/itpplications, when I cry 
unto thee : whtn J lift up mj hands towards thy holy Oracle, 
fFith'hold not thou thy tender mercies from mcy O Lord • 
let thy loving kindneffe, and thy truth continually prefirve 
mee. 

Thirdly, It rcceivcth earthly blcflSngs as gifts of the 
covenant and part of his chi:ldes portion. God vouchfa- 
fctb outward things to wicked men of common bounticj 
but to his children the blcffings oi this life be tokens of 
his love and fpcciall good-will, and fo received a^d em- 
braced by faith. For fubftancc the gift is one, both to the 
Juft and unjuft : but in rcfpeft ot the canfe, poiTeffioia 
and ufe, there is great difference : which is difccr- 
ncd by faith, though it cannot be fcenc with the eye. 
I will even betroth thee unto me infaithfulnefcy and thou 
fialt know the Lord, ^yfnd it ffjall come to pafi in that 
iday, I will heare, faith the Lord, J -ml(heare the Heaven f, 
and they j^all heare the Earth, and the Sarth (hall hearB 
theCorne, andthefVinCy andtheOile, mdtheyjhatl heare 
itzrcel. 
-—=-.—-___ Fourthly, 



th$ fromijes Qfwsditping Ufyijt^ 



Fourthly, Faith in ttneft and the forcfaid pro^ifes doth 
greatly enlarge the heart towards God, and ftirrcth up to 
a fcriou^ and earncft ftudicpf holii^cflfe. If a Chriftian be 
much in] the meditatiort of Godsyiii^ular goodneffc to- 
wards him every mgnncr of way, above all that he could 
pofTibly aske or thinke, it will even conftrainc him to 
yccid up himfelfe wholy unto God in all manner of godly 
converiation. 'Examine me ^ O Lor^y and prove me', trie 
myreines and my heart : Tor thy loving kindneffe is before 
mine eyes: and I have walked in thy trmh, , . 

Fiftly, It doth inwardly quiet and checrc the heart in 
the midft of manifold outward difcouragements, trou- 
bles and perfecutions m the world. Hope of glory indue 
time to be revealed, and ofcontinuall fupply ofaltgood 
things from God in the meane f pace to beic freely given, 
will ftablifh the h art with ftrong confolation, and caufc 
an outward profeflion of Joy, to the glory of God, the 
encouragement of other f aithfull people, and the amaze- 
ment of the wicked. This is to be fecne in the lives and 
deaths of Gods faithfull fervants, who tooke/oyfully the | 
fpoiling of their goods, knowing in thcmlelvcs that they 
had in Heaven a better, and an induring fubftancc ; who 
for this hope, endured the crofe and defpifed /hame, as 
is teftified of our Saviour himfelfe. "By faith ^ Mofes 
when he woi come to ye ares ^ ref fifed to bee called thefonne 
«?/' Pharaohs daughter-, choofing rafhdr to fuffer afjiiEiion 
tvith the people of God, then to enjoy the pleafures offtnne 
for afeajon : Sfieeming the reproch of Chrifi greater ri- 
ches then the treafures o/Egypt '.for he hadre^eSl unto the 
recompence of reward. By fait hot hers were tortfiredynotaccep^ 
tin^ deliverance^that they might obta7e a better refurre^ion» 
The way or meanest© flirrc up faith inthefcpromi- 
fes, is ; 

Firft", to humble our felves unfainedly in refpefl: of our 
miferable and accurfed eftate by finnc, and former care- 
leflcneffc to feckc mercy, enter pqfleffioh, and get aflured 
evidence of thatcvcrlafting inheritancc.Woeis raee,how 

S 5 am 



261 



Ffal.2tf,2,5. 



Heb.10,34, 



Hcb.is.t. 



Heb. 
16, 



ii.z4jZ$ 



Heb.11.5f. 

The meanes to 
fiirre up faith 
in tlejepromu 
fes. 

I. 



262 



what it is to lively Faith cenc&nmg 



Hcb.a.ij. 



atn I fallen from that ftatc of blcffedncffc wherein I was 
firft ere jtcdjinto a moft mifcrablc and accurfed condition? 
I have gricvoudy finncJ, and God is highly provoked, 
the fcntcnce oPthe Law is already gone forth, I am fhuc 
up under wrath, and if I have my defert, I can exp!<5l 
nothing but the terrible execution of fsarcfull vengeance 
denounced. Moriahrie as a worme corrupteth my body : ! 
ignorance and iud; tyrrannizc in my foulc:my condition is 
cxpofed to a thoufand vanities and wearifome courfes ; 
and through feare of death the upfliot of evils, 1 am fub- 
jc(fl to bondage all my life. In ray firfl: eftate I was made 
far above all vifible Creatures, and by free bounty lifted 
up to be the favourite of" the mod High Gid : but by wil- 
full difobedience, I am fallen into Gods difplcafure, and 
lie prifoner under the revenging jufticeofthelaw. Nor 
is my wretched condition worfe then my carclefneflfe to 
be delivered from it,. The bruit beafts take it as a grie- 
vous thing to be cnfnared and taken : but I have deligh- 
ted in-bondagCj and counted italiberty tolive aflaveto Sa- 
than, and to follow things and courfes pleafing corrupt 
nature. Thou Lord of thine infinite grace haft proclaimed 
liberty, publiflbed peace, and made offer of a better 
ftate and condition in Chrift, then what I formerly loPt in 
Aiam: But I preferred fpirituall thraldome to liberty, 
death to life, and chofe rather to follow the temptations 
ofSathan, and to fulfill the lufts of the flcfli, then to come 
unto Chrift that I might be faved. The men of this 
world are wife in their generation, to accept of earthly 
commodities when they be offered, and not to put by the 
opportunity : but when the Lord hath made promifc of 
cverlafting life, if I would renounce the plcafures of fin, 
and foregoc the vanities of this world, I have followed 
vanity and neglefted mercy, I have defpifed the great fal- 
vation, and walked in the paths of death and condemna- 
tion. O Lord, it is thine owne worke of grace in me, 
that ever I did bethinke my felfc of the danger of my 
courfe, and repent to lay hold upon the promifes of life. 

Nor 



the fromijes efcverlafiing life. 



Nor hath my floth and ncgb'gcncc to fcekc, evidence, get 
affurance, and enter poflcflion of that glorious inheri- 
tance, by growing up in peace, joy,holinc{fe and fandin- 
cation, beene kflc odious, then f-ormer carclcfneflc. Since 
I have beene enhghtned, and tafted of the heavenly 
gift, I have fleighted the promifes of mercy, which 
Bjould have beene my continuall meditation ; I have neg- 
lecFted to get and keepe the holy Spirit,hoIy in it felfc,ma- 
king them holy in whom as temples it dwcUeth, the fcale 
and earned of the proraifed inheritance. Ah, what a 
dwarfe am I in holineffc and fan<5lification ? for thefe ma- 
ny ycares bow little have I gained ? My fpirituall fight is 
exceeding dimmc, my paffions boifterous, my heart un- 
quiet, my thoughts evill, my nature corrupt. I am dull 
to good, apt to (in, feeble and of no power to withftand 
temptations, ftiaken with many feares touching my fal- 
vation, fooncunfetled and removed from dec faftnelTe by 
any contrary oppofirion, farthcR to feeke for evidence 
and aflurance when I ftand in greatcft need. Ail this is 
come upon me through mine ownc foolifl^neffe : becaufc 
I have not acquainted ray felfe with the promifes of 
grace, nouriflied the motions of the Spirit, carefully im- 
proved the gifts received, endeavoured after perfcdion, 
and laboured to be ftaled more and more with the pro- 
mifed Spirit. What might I have gr@wen unto in Chrift, 
if I had inftantly dcfired the Spirit of Grace of him who 
givcth it, heeded the infpirations and fuggeftions of it, 
and by all conicionablc meancs fought increafe of grace, 
and afliirance of falvation > Long ere now I might have 
attained fulneffe of fpirituall wifdome and undcrftan- 
ding, ftrength of faith,power of grace,(wcet communion 
and fellow ("hip with God liber ry and freedome to walke 
with God, comfortable poffeffion in part, and good af- 
furance of eternall life in due time to be accomplished ; 
whereas by reafon of floth and negligence the powers of 
grace are fo enfeebled, that I can fcarce breathe, figb, 
crawie in the way to Heave?, my heart is defolate, I am a 

S 4 ftran- 



263 



^6^ 



Ecclef 4.^« 



what it is tolinje hy FMthcemtrn'mg ■ 

te|3gr:r.tqih$^Gomfons ot eodliaeCfc, terrified with the 
jreijicmibr^nce of death, rea^ to faint at the apprehcnfion 
of trouble and danger, aiid Gontinually difquieted with 
feares and doubts touching mineowne falvacion, if the 
world with the things thereof have not caiVme into the 
fleepeoffecurity forafeaCon. The flocbfuU manisju'Hy 
condcmnedj: whohad rather ftarvc in SuniLner for lacke 
ofbread, then plough in wiacer bseaule oF the cold : We 
cenfurc hill). tkathad.rathergoe lame and crooked as long 
as he liveth, then be at a little paine to move an aking 
/oynt. He is worthily accounted improvident, who neg- 
lediing.to gather in his writings, or fue out fine and reco- 
verie, will hazard theloffe of his owne inheritance. My 
folly hath exccede;! herein, who to live in peace and quiet 
with finne, have impoveriQied my foule,. impaired my 
ftocke of grace, wounded my confcience, deprived my 
felfcof many rich privilcdges of grace- which I might 
Lhavc enjoye:fi weakened my title fo mine everlafting in- 
heritance, and beene contented to prcepe feebly towards 
the heavenly Canaain ; thinking it better to keepe where 
I was with quiet, then to make my condition, by ftill 
dealing with my felfe too too reftlefle. The fluggards 
jfhamclelTe excufe hath fearfully bewitched me ; B&tter 
is an handfftUwtth eafe^ then bothhan is full mthtrdVell and 
vexation of fpirtt. The more excellent the inheritance I 
hope for is, the more deteftablcis myflu^gilimefieand 
folly, that I have not carneftly fought to make it fure unto 
my felfe, and entred pofl>0ion thereof fo farre as in this 
life is given of grace. 

Secondly, W'e muft incite and fiirre up our felves to re- 
ceive the promifes of everlafting life, by confideration of 
the free and rich grace of God, his truth and faithfulneffe; 
thcfufficiencie of Chrifts merits;and greatneflc, excellen- 
cie, and worth of the benefit promifed. Awake, my 
foule, why fleepeft rfpou; arife, and lay hold upon the 
[promifes of life, which God of his great mercy in Jefus 
iGhrift doth offer unto thee in the Gofpell. be not dl^- 

mayed 



thepQmifcs ofcverUJlingUfe* 



26s 



mavcd b V rcafon of thine unworthineflc,f or the promtfe is 
of grace, freely offered, and freely given to them that be 
moft unworthy in their owne eyes. Thou art unworthy 
of theleaft crumme of mercy, but ot his rich tncrcy God 
hath made promife of higheft advancement unto thee, if 
thou wilt embrace it. IrvlH ^c 4 J^'ather mto yon, andyee 
Mil bee my femes and daughters, faith the LordAlmghty 
He that oiercommethJhaU inherit aUthmgs _ ^ndl mil be 
hu God, mdhee jhaUhe myfonne, ^ndttjhali^^ tn the 
place where it ^va6 faU untothem.jee are not my^ people 
that there they (hall be called the children of the livttig God. 
Life eternal! is given of grace, not fold for workes^recei- 
vcdby faith, not purchafed by defer t : and the more 
worthlefle thou art in thy owne lowly conceit, the more 
.iliallthe grace of God be magnifTed mthnie exaltation. 
Chrift hath purchafed righteoufneile and everlaftmg life ; 
believe in him, and live for ever. The bonne of God de- 
bafed himfelfc to become the Sonne of Man. and to be 
made under the Law, that he might redeemem that werc^ 
under the Law, that wee might recetvejhe ^doptmn of 
fom. Oh the bountifulnefle and love of God to man, by fo 
4reat a price to purcbafc fo high a dignity, that we fhould 
be called the Sonnes of God, and be partakers with 
riirin- nf all his elory J" liis Fathers kingdorae. O ray 

thoii not put forth thy felfe to embrace and receive fuch 
an ineftimable benefit. If the worth of things may bee 
meafured by their price, well then may ihc Sonibipof 
t"elieversbevaLdatthebigheftrat^ 
ficiently admire the dignity of this eaate (to be the Sonne 
of Gad ) which could not be procured fave onely by this 
infinite price, the making of him become nothing by 
whom God in the beginning made every thmg ? It s e- 
deemed a matter of great honour to bethefervantofthe 
Prince in fome fpeciall place of emmencie in the Com- 
mon-wealth : How doe men feeke and fue for fuch Of- 
fices ? how do they re) oyce when their delires arc accom- 



iGor.^.18. 

Apoc 21.7. 



Gal 4 4s ^. 

Phil.i.7,8. 

Tit 3.4. 



i66 



what it is to live by Faith concerning 

plifhcd ? But there is no comparifon betwixt thefervant 
of a Prince, and the Sonne of God ; the favour of a 
Prince, and the Fatherly love of God ; the dignity of the 
Court, and the Joyes or Heaven ; a tcmporall office, and 
an eternall inheritance. It is better and more honourable 
to be the fervam of God, then the Commander of men i 
to be an hcire apparent to Heaven, then the poffeffor of 
the whole World. There is a great opinion, and not with- 
1 out juft caufe, of the eftate ofour firft Parents, nAdum 
1 and ^v<?, whilft they were in Paradife, before their fall. 
j But their eftate, notwithftanding all their priviledges, or- 
naments, and favours, exceeded not the condition of fer- 
j vants. Had they continued in obedience to their Creator, 
they (hould have beenc exempted from all mifery, and 
confirmed in perfcd: blefledneffe ; But they could never 
have attained this dignity. To be made the Sonnes of 
God by Adoption, of meerc, rich, and undefcrved love m 
Chrift. And is it not an admirable prerogative, to be 
brought by Chrift into a more excellent ftate, then that 
which AdAm in his innoceney and glory had /uft caufe to 
wonder at. As the gratioufneffe of him who preferreth, 
and cxcellencie of that ftate, whercunto the Believer is 
exalted, doe commend this ; fo alfo doth the low de- 
gree from which we are raifed. Of the fervants of finnc, 
to be made the Sonnes of God ; of the vaflals of Sathan,to 
be taken to raigne with Chrift in glory f®r evermore 5 of 
children of wrath^ dead \n trefpafies, to be begotten a- 
gaine to the hops of an inheritance, immortall, undefiled, 
that fadcth not; what an unfpcakablc favour is this ? O 
my foule arife, ftirre up thy felfc ftedfaftly to receive the 
promifcof life, and hold it faft : for Gods pro mifes arc 
certaine, never lefle, but rather more in accompliflbment 
then in tender. Enter pofleffion, and get the inheritance 
fealed unto thee. Would not a poorc Beggar, if he ftiould 
underftand of fome great and goodly inheritance bequea- 
tbed unto him in a farrc countrey, much rejoyce there- 
in, long to go fceir, and take pofleffion of it. In matters 

of 



the frcmifes ofeverUjling life. 



of weight men love great earned and good aflurance : for 
great advantage they will endure any paincs, hazard ma- 
ny difficulties.Did men know the worth and glory of the 
kingdomc of Heaven, freely offered, and that without all 
expiration of time, to be poffcffcdherc in part of them 
that will receive it, fully hereafter, when their daies on 
earth be determined; w uld they notfeeke it with all 
earncftncffe, enquire after good evidence, get found af- 
futdnc:, and labour the poffeflian of it more and more ? 
Men feeke earthly things, and often miflc ok their defires: 
but the promifc of Heaven is fure and ftcdfaft, and he 
thatrcfteth upon the Lord fhallnotbe confounded. E- 
verlarting life is freely offered, but men are not left at li- 
berty whether they will receive and feeke it, or no. Hee 
that believeth on the Sonne , hath everUfiing life : and hee 
that helieveth not the Sonne, Jhall not fee life, but the 
wrath of God abUeth on him. Do not they perifh wor- 
thily, who prefcrrc the plcafnres of finne, and honours o£ 
this tranfitory life, before life everlafting, promifcd of 
grace, purchafed by Chrift, full laden with all fruits of 
true W^Cyjoy, peace, and all choiccft pleafures, beyond 
comparifon^cxceeding whatfoever can be cn/oyed in this 
world both in worth and endlcffc fetledneffc ? The labour 
to make Heaven fure, which is full of plcafure anddc- , 
light, doth eafcthe heart of many burdenfotnejdiftradting, 
afid cutting cares. For if thou be the childc of Sod, thou 
haft liberty to come into his prefence, and to make thy 
requefts knowne unto him with thankefgiving ; Nothing 
that is truly evill fhall betide thee. The plague {hall not 
come nigh thy Tabernacle : Theu Jhttlt Tvalke upon the 
Lion and ^^e, and tread them under feet : God will 
provide all things neccffary for foule and body, and fee 
that no good thing be wanting unto thee. Seek^ firft the 
ktngdonte of God, and hii rtghteoufnejfe, and all thefe 
things Jhuli be added unto jou. What then fliould with- 
draw or hold nie backc from believing the promife. and 
feeking the poffeflion of that inheritance. It is God who 1 

hith' 



2^7 



John. 2, 3^. 



Ephef.i.iS. 

& 5.12. 



Pfal.ji.iOjij 



Pral.j4.10. 
Matrh.d.jj. 



26S 



what it is to U<ve hy Faith concerning 

hath freely promifed ir, who can and will performc 
whatfoever he hath fpoken ; it h Chrift who hath pur- 
chafed it by the facrifice of himfelfc once for all, why 
then fhouid I doubt ? I am commanded to believe ; and 
believing the pofleffion of life is given in part, which 
may be incrcafcd by a daily addition to the graces and 
comforts of the Adopted ; why fliould I be negligent to 
feeke it confirmed andfcaled ? Everlafting life is the only 
true life, full of /oy, peace and contcntation ; a durable 

I trcafure which can never fade, acrownc that never wi- 
thereth : and fliall bafc things take up the heart, when 

j God callethto feekc a mod glorious and everlafting in- 

j heritance? Oh. the ineftimaWelove and favour of God, 
who makes offer of an Adoption and immortall Inheri- 

' tancc to the moft contemptible wretches, that live upon 
the face of the earth? The man that toiles hard all day 
long forafmall piece offilver, or lies at the rich mans 
gate waiting for an Almes, the fcraps that come from his 
Table : he is invited to come unto Chrift, that he might 
obtaine a kingdome, an eternall kingdom? that hath none 
end, an inheritance abundantly gloaous, furpaffing the 
glpryand worth of all earthly treafures and inheritances 
laid together, much more then all earthly treafures do ex- 
ceed the worth of one pin.What an heart-breake is it to a 
man, when he finds that by fome default he.hach forfeited 
fome earthly matters, which he might have held, had he 
bin warie ? but what griefe and confudon will this caufc, 
when he fhall fee that through folly, Qoth, carelefleneflfe, 
marchlcffe cruelty, and unthankfulneffe, he hath loft an 
everlafting inheritance of glory, which he migk have ob- 
taincd ? Meere poflibilityofcompaffingfome great and 
extraordinary good is of more waight in fwaying mens 
adions and inciting endevours, then certainty ofaccom- 
pliHiing pettie dcfires. But certainty and commodity do 
hereconcurreinone : There is no good to the polTeflion 
of eternall life,- no fuccefle certaine but this, that he who 
unfainedly believeth in Chrift, fhall inherit the crownc of 



thefrsmifes efevtrUfiing life. 



glory. 1 1 is good for me to draw nigh unto God. and put 
my traft in his mercy ; to lay taft hold upon the promifcs 
of life and protc Aion,to get the fpirit of Adoption where- 
by wc cry Abba Father, and fly unto his grace in Chrift, 
to get my tiilcmadc furc and ftrcngthencd unto my con- 
icience, and while time fervctb, earneftly to fccke the 
kingdomtofGod. 

Thirdly, Wee muft pray earneftly that God would 
incrcafc our faith, Icalc us by bis Spirit, lead us in the 
way of peace, caufe us to grow up in holincffe ; make us 
wiic to prize and value, to taft and relifli the /oycs of 
Heaven ; and afliirc our confcienccs of right and title 
to tbatcrerlafting inheritance. For it is God thatfcalcth 
Bs, and makes us to rcadc the fcaling * that promifcth 
Heaven, and afFcfl:eth the heart with the goodncffc and 
worth of the thing promifed 5 that by the pledges of his 
favour and the carneft of his Spirit doth fufficicntly tcfti- 
He our Adoption, and caufe us ccrtaincly to apprehend 
what be doth tcftific and aflurc. As the beginning, fo 
the progrefTc, comfort and aflurance of life is from him, 
and inftantly is to be begged of him. Faith rccciveth the 
promife of life, and giues aflurance of what is received, 
as it prayetk Who am I O Lord, that thou fhouldcft 
make foch an^i« and free promifes unto thy poore fer- 
rant concerning his evcrlafting happincffe ? Of thy free 
mercy, and according to thine owne heart, haft thou 
fpokcn all thcfe great things, to make thy fervant know 
them. And now, O Lord God, eftabliih I bcfeechthec 
the word that thou haft fpoken concerning thy fervant; 
gratioufly accept mc for thy childe ; by the carneft of 
thy Spirit and pledges of thy favour feale unto mc the 
promifed inheritance, and make mc affuredly to know 
what grcar things thou haft done, and whattnofehopey 
be wmch arc rcfervcd for mc in Heaven. My fight is 
dimmc, not proportioned and fitted to fo high an objcft^, 
my aflcdKons carnall that I cannot fct my fclfeto purpofc 
about this; contemplation, the Dcvill labours nothing 

more 



2^p 



„_— ■— ~».»* 

270 I Wh^tit is to live by Fdthcmcerm^g 



1 Thcff'.i. 
Col t.f. 



«4- 



Pfal,i6.5,6, 



»^ 



more then to keeps m3 hood- winked this way. O Lord, 
Ibcfecch thee inablc m^ to know this good and blc fled 
hope, the matter of mine inheritance abundantly glo- 
rious, that my heart may beftill in Heaven; and by thy 
Spirit lead me mto all truth and hoUdefle, that in due 
time I ma.y poflcffe the Kingdome of glory whereunto I 
am called. Ofthy free grace thou haft called rac by the 
Gofpell' to this blefled hope, which is laid up for mc 
in Heaven : therefore is thy fervant bold to intreate 
the fence of thy love, the knowledge of this Hope, 
the incrcafc of grace, and alfurancc of thy mercy for 
evermore. 

Fourthly, Wc mud quicken our fclvcs to re/oycc in 
God, waitc patiently, and walke chcarfuUy before him. 
Oh, the incomprehenfiblc love and favour of the Lord. 
Was it ever found that any man of rankc or place did 
adopt the blinde, lame,, deafc, durabc, or otlaerwifc 
deformed, to beh€irc,to fuccecdehim in bis inheritance? 
My foulc, rcjoycc thou in the Lord, and bleffc his holy 
Name, for he hath looked upon mybafeeftatc, andvi- 
fited mc with mercy from on high : of a ftrangcr and 
forrainer, I am made a freedcnifon of the new lerufaleM* 
of the bondQave ofSathan, the friend ofChrift; of the 
childe of wrath and damnation, the fbnne of God and 
heire of falvation. My Name is rcgiftrcd in Heaven, an 
etcrnall waight of glory is refervcd , which the moft 
righteous God hath promifcd, and in fitteft feafon will 
give unto me. Why fliould I doate on earthly braveries, 
who have an etcrnall life that hath moft excellent glory, 
honour, riches and. happineffc, above all the heart can 
comprchcnd,joyned with it, prepared and given through 
faith in Chrift. It were notable bafcnefle, if an heire of 
fumptuous and ftately pallaccs ftiould covet the poorc 
cottages of beggars that ftand by the high way fide. The 
Lord is thepvrtion ofmine'inherlt^ncey and of my cuf : thtu 
mdintainefi mj tot. The lines are fallen unto me infleafaMt 
f laces I j^al bave\a goodly heritage. My ftudie and care 

iliould 



tkpremfes cfferfe'ver4rfce,dcc. 



fliould be to know Hiy heavenly hopes better and more 
fully,tbatl inight weane liay felf the more -willingly from 
all earthly vanities. Heaven is my home, my hope, mine 
inheritance : and-where fliould my heart be, but where 
my treafure is ; where my thoughts, but where my hope 
is ? In this life I receive oncly the firft fruits of the Spirit, 
the earned of the inheritance : but I will waite patiently 
for the full poffeffion thereof, and walkc chcarefully in 
ihc way that Icadcth thereunto. In earthly things men arc 
contented to waitc for a good Icafc in rcverfion, and to 
lay out their money for that which fhall not come to their 
hands till fome lives be expired : and fliould not I waite 
for the accomplifliment of glory, there being but one life 
betwixt it and me, and that is mine owne ?: 



CHAP. V. 

TPhat it is to live ^j faith touching the fromife^ 
ofperfeveranccj Andhonf tofiirrf 
up ourfelves there- 
unto, 

God of his infinite mercy hath made further promifes, 
(the neceflitylofhisfervants fo requiring, ) that his 
mercy fliall never depart from them,that he will confirmc 
& ftrengthen them to the end, nptwithftanding their own 
weakneflc,and the malice of their fpirituall enemies, and 
that nothing fhall feperate then? from the love of God 
which is in Chrift Jefus. This is implied in the firft pro- 
mife which God made,// /^^Af huife thy head & thonjlah 
hmfe bis heele : where Sathan is ftinted to the heele of the 
trueChriftian feed. In many paffagcs of Scripture the 
fame is moli clearely andmanifeftly expreffed. He pjtill 
hee liksa tree planted hj the rivers of rvater, that hringeth 
forth his fruit in hisfeafofi, his leafe alfojhatt not ypithery and 

"what- 



271 



SM 



Godlathrnade 
many fr9mi[et 
offerfevergace. 



Gen. 3. 1 J, 



Pfal.sz.13.j4 



272 

pra.48.i4. 

Pfal.Tj 24., 
Vcrfe ZQ. 

Pfal.105.i7. 
Pfal.ii».j.5. 

PliUitf.x.x. 

Efay.4%.J. 
Efay.46. 4. 

Efax.54.i«. 






Efay.y9.zi. 

Rom.9,fJ. 
Gal 4.28. 



Icr.ji.j. 



Efay. 54.8.9 • 



ff)&4f f f is U live bj Fdth touching 

what foe ver heedoth fijuUfro^er, Thefleps of a good mm 
are ordered by the Lord^ and hee deli^hteth in hU nvaj, 
Thottgh hee fall hse (h^U not bee Hiterly c^fi downe : for 
the L9rd ttpholdeth him wth his hand. For this God it our 
god for ever ani ever^ hee wiS^e our guide even unto death. 
Thou Jhalt guide me with thy counfeM, and afterward receive 
me to glory. LMy fiejh and heart faileth : but God it the 
ffrength of my heartuind my portion for ever. The mereie of 
the Lord it from everlafling toeverUfiing upon them that 
feare him, A good man fb^weth favour andUndeth : hee will 
guide his affaires with diferetion : Surely hee Jhattnotbee 
moved for ever : the righteous JhaU be in everlafiing remem- 
brance. They that truji in the Lordyfhall be as mmnt Zion, 
which cannot bee removed^ but abiisthfor ever, A bruifed 
reedeflfai he net breaks, andthefmoaking fiaxe fhallhe not 
quench, %And even to your old age lam hecy and even to the 
hoare haires will I carrie you \ I have made^ and I wiU 
beare,even I wiB carrieyandwill deliver you. For themoun- 
tainesjball depart, and the hils bee removed, but my k^nd- 
nejfe flf/tll not depart jrom thee, neither /ball the covenant 
of my peace bee removed, faith the Lord that hath mercy 
on thee* ^sfor m:e^ this is my covenant with them, faith 
the Lord, lMj Spirit that is upon thee, and my words 
which I have put in thy mouth, Jhall not depart out of thy 
mouth, nor out of the mouth of thyfeede ; that h, fuch 
as bee cffcftoally called according to the purpofe of 
God. 

Hereunto may be added thofe paffages which teftific, 
that the love which God bcareth to his people is an ever- 
laftinglovc, and the covenant, which he hath made with 
them effcftually, and fliall be kept aflhrcdly, \% an ever- 
lafting covenant. The Lord hath appeared of old unto mee, 
fay ing^jeayl have loved thee with aneverlafiing love: there- 
fore with loving kindnejfe have Idrarvne thee. In a little 
wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment : but with e- 
ver la fling kindneffe will I have mercy on thee, faith the 
Lord thy Redeemer. For this is as the waters <^Noah un- 
to 



thefremifes offerfevtrmcti^c. 



to me:for as Ihttvefvoorneyih^t the waters efNoaihfieuldfjo 
more goe ever the earth i [a havtjfworne^ that Iwouidnot 
be Tfroth roith thee ^mr rebuke thee, *Behe/d,the dajes ccme^ 
faith the Lordy that Iiivill wake a new covem^t roiththe 
heu/eeflitaclafid with the hoftfe of Judz t 2{ot according 
t9 the Covenant that I fnade with their Fathers in the day 
that Itaoke them by the h/indy to bring them out of the land 
cfJEgypty which my covenant they brake ^ althcugh I woi 
an husband Hnto them. But thisjhall btt the covenant that 
I win make with the houfe »/Ifracl ; After thoje dayes,faith 
the Lordy I will put my law in their inward parts, and 
write it tn their hearts, ^And they Pjall bee my people 
and I will bee their ^od, ^nd I will give them one heart ^ 
and one way, that they may feare mee for ever, for the 
good of them, and of their children after them,. %And I 
will make an ever la f^ing covenant with them, that I will 
not turne away from them to do them good: but I will put 
my feare in their heart t, that they JhaU not depart from 
mee. 

In which covenant or Tcftamcnt God freely ptomifcth 
to give what he requireth of his people, and to cfFcft in 
them what he calleth for at their hands. If the benefits gi- 
ven be compared amongft themfelvcs, one is as it were a 
condition to another : but they be all efFefls in refpedt of 
the grace and free favour of God, ccrtainely conferring 
them upon whom he will. RighteoufhcfTc and life are 
promifed upon condition of faith : but the condition of 
the covenant is promifed in the covenant it felfc. ji new 
heart alfo will I give you, and a newfpirit will I put within 
you, and I win take away the flonie heart out of your flejb. 
And I will put my Spirit within you,andcaufe you to walks in 
myfiatutes, andyeejhattkeepe my judgements, and do them. 
And I wis betroth thee unto mee forever, yea I wiU betroth 
thee Unto mee in righteoufnejfe, and in judgement, and in lo- 
ving kindnejjey and in mercies, I will even betroth thee un- 
to me infaitbfulneffe,a»d thou /halt know the Lord, The ex- 
tcrnall betrothing by outward covenant, fo as God be- 

T trothes 



273 



lcr.31.31,32, 

Hcb.8.8^9.& 
10.1tf.j7. . 



J«. 31.38.3 9, 
40* 

Heb.l3.20' 
Heb.S.io. 



»7. 



Hof.a. 15,10. 



a74i 






Mat.7.t4stf. i 



Matth,i6.i8. 



lohn.io.ajs 



Rom.8.3J,37, 



RaTi.is.2-9- 



iPet.i.3j4,5. 
ilohn.g.a. 



What 'it isiillvehj Fdth tOHchmg 

Vm^IM^— PM^ I ■ ■ ! ■ — n --...i. ' , ■■■! , I ■ I ,i.,i...i ■l.^ ■! I >* ■ ! III. 

trothes himfclfe to all profclTing the tras faith, may be 
broken,for though God offsr them mercy if they will be- 
lieve, yet he gives not faith to them ; but the internall by 
cfFe^uall difpofitioni of which the Prophet fpeaketh in 
this place, is indiifolublc. 

whosoever heareth thefe fayings of mine, and deth them 
I will liken him unto a. veife muny which built hkhoufe Hpon 
a robke : <!y^H^thf ralne cteft'ettde^^ anA the jiofMs rame ^and 
thewifids blen^i and heatupon that houfe, anditfell fiotjfer 
it W4S founded upon]a rockf' But all the faithfull are built 
upon the rocke • not upon the rocke now, and anon upon 
the fand, but once built upon the rocke, they remaine 
unttDVcable. Thstt ah Peter, and upon thU rocke I will 
build wy Churchy and the gates of Hell fl}all not pnrevaiU 
againfiit : affailc it thc-y may, prevaile againft it they {hali 
not. •■?.;V(? '. 

C^Ey Jhcepe hearelffiy^eicei a«d I ^ow them, 4ndthey 
follow me. And I qive nnto them e tern all life, and they fh all 
never perifh, neither JhMl any m^n placks them out of my 
hand: LMy F\arher •ivhich'i^ave thsm me, 'i^ greater then 
all : and no man is able toptmki them out of my Fathers 
hand, who Jhall feperate us jrom the love of Chrijl f 
shall tribulation, or dijf-rejfe, or perfecutionj or famine, or 
nakedni^e, orperiS, orfword ? Nay, in all thefe things rvee 
are mare then. con^Sierottrs ihrongh him that io'vedtu. The 
gifts and galling of God are Tvithetit repent auce, *B lejfed bee 
the Ged and Father of oar Lord Tefm (fhri^ ruho accor* 
ding to his .abundant mercy, hath begotten ui agairte Unto 
a lively hope, by the reffirreEiion of lefus Chriji from the 
dead. To 4ti inheritance incorruptible, af^dundefiled, and 
that fadeth not atvay, refervedin Heaven f(fr yen. Who 
are k^pt by the power of God through faith nnio falvation, 
ready to be revealed in the lafi time. Beloved, novi> wee are 
the fonnes of God, and it doth not yet appeare. rfhat wee 
\^all bee .:\biff^ee knor^y that xthenhee fk all hppeare, wee 
jhall bee like him. : for wee jh\U fee him as he is, f^w nnto 
him that is able to keepe yopt from falling, und to pre- 
.. . ;,: fern 



thefromifes offerfiverance,^c. 



fent jouJMtltle^t before the -^refence of his ghrie ifoith tx- 
cee/ingjoj : To the one Ij rt>ije Godour Sa^^of^r, bee glorie 
and moijefij, dominion apd power, n«w And every^/^men. 
Doth God in thcfe places promife to protedl. us againft 
forrainc enemies, not againft domeftickt perfidioufncfle ? 
The texts doe refpedt no condition, as the caufc of fulfil- 
ling thcfe promifes, but plainly affirmc, that God him- 
fclftdoth promife and will give the condition which he 
requires. For to what end doth be write the Law in the 
heart, uphold with his hand, and give a good iflue to the 
temptation ; but that the will, prone to wickedneflc, 
fhould not yceld, and altogether ftartbacke from grace 
received ? 

Whofoever is borne of God, doth not commit finne : for his 
feedrsmaineth in him, and he cannot Jlnne^becattfe he is borne 
of God. And if the feed abide '\x\ the faiihf uU as an indele- 
bic charafler and pledge of their inheritance, that they 
cannot finnc in the Apoftles fence, then are they fenced 
againd the treachery of their ovvne hearts remaining in 
thcm.whofoe'ver drink^th of the tvater that Iflmllgiveh'tm, 
fhall never thirH : b»t the ivaterthat I give himficallbeein 
him a vfell of water fpringing up into everUfiing life: where 
thirft is oppofvd to atotall want of grace, not to the 
carncft defirc of increafe in grace. The thirft of totall 
indigencic is taken away by the participation of grace; 
the thirft of complacencie, or more, ample fruition of 
grace, is incrcafcd. 

The Holy Spirit, who is jfent into the hearts of the 
Sonnes of God, is not there as a gncft to tarrie for a 
night or two ; but as an inhabitant to dwell and remaine 
for ever : yea, as an earncft oS. their inheritance, untill the 
redemption of the purchafcd ^o{^ei\ion.Iwii/prAj the Fa~ 
thery and hee_^a/l give y OH another Comforter, that he may 
^ide with you for ever, 2^<»w hee which fiablijheth us 
with you in Chrifi, and hath annointedus^ is God, who 
hath aljofealedus, and given the earnefi of the Spirit in our 
hearts: which is the earnefl of our inheritance, nntillthe 

T 2 redemMton 



2.75 



I jGiin.3.9, 

J Ichn.j.iS. 



Iohn4.i4. 



1 Pct.1,2,3. 



Rom.8.11. 

Hag-i.5. 
I Pct.4.i4. 

I Iohn.z.27. 

lohn. 14.15. 
aCor.i.zijtx 

Ephcf;i.i4. 
&4.J0. 



27^ 



what ft is to live bj F/uth touching 



iPee.Lxj. 



John, f, 14. 
John.17,3, 
Iohn.<.47. 



iIoh,5.ii,ix 



loh.X7.«f' 






redemption of tkepnrchtifcdpii^ejftoHy unto thffprAtfi of hit 
glory. 

The fccde whereof the faitbfull arc begott^^ti is incor- 
ruptible, the life, which they live by faith in Chrift, h an 
cverlafting life. Vsrily, verily I fay unto you, Hee thdt 
j heareth my word, and hlieveth on him that fern mee, hdth 
tverlafiing life, and/hdH not come into condfmnatlon, but is 
paffedfi-om death unto life. And this is the record, that God 
hath given to m eternall life^ and this life ii in his Sonne, 
Hee that hath the Sonne hath life, andhee that hath not the 
Sonne hath not life.'^ovr the Scrip urcs faying.He that be- 
lieveth bath cvcrlafting life, and fliall not come into con- 
demnation, doth import that faith aad the fruits thereof 
be fuch from which the godly through the power of God 
never fall. 

And for further confirmation, the Scripture teftifieth, 
that Chrift hath prayed for his people that their faith 
fiiould not faile, that they flaould bee kept from the 
evill. This cannot be relirainedto the Apoftles, but it 
is the common priviledge of all the faithful! ; Thither 
pray Iforthefe alone'JjHtfor all them alfo vhichjhall believe 
on mee through their word. And the intcrceflion of Chrifl 5 
even for this particular blefling of the not failing of 
faith, never ccafcth, is ever cffc<fluall, and fpecdeth al- 
wayes. 

And that nothing might be wanting to foil confola- 
tion in this point, we are affurcd from God, that he will 
perfcd the worke of grace which he hath begun, fyho 
JhaH alfo confirmeyon nnto the end, thatyec may bee bfame' 
/; ff in the day of the Lordleftu Chri/}, "Seing confident of 
this very thing, that hee which hath began a good worke in 
yon J wiSperforme it untill the day oflefus Chrifi, FaithfnB 
' is hee that caSeth you, who alfo will doe it, that is^ (" as 
I Thcff 5 14 \ gocth imme lately before ) preferveyour whole fptrit, and 
\foi*le and body biameteffe unto the camming of oar Lordleftu 
Chri^, TheLordisfatthfnll^ who (haU efAblifh yoH, and 
kfepeyoH from evill. 

Now 



Vetfe i«. 



I Cor. 1. 8. 
Phil. 1.6. 



rheffg.j. 



thefr6mifes offer fever ance-,^c. 



Now feeing God hath bin plcafcd, by fo many promi- 
fes to afTure the faithfull of their fiire and ftedfaft eftate, it 
h neceflary fcrioufly to learne and thinke upon them, that 
they might be fetled in believing their perfeverancc. Had 
it not beerc a point of great weight and neceffitie, we 
cannot thinke the Lord would have mentioned it fo of- 
ten, and confirmed it fo many waies : which will footie 
appearc to any man that {hall confider his ownefrailtie, 
and the ftrength and malice of his fpirituall enemies;how 
potent and vigilant they be to aflaile, how weakc and 
feeble he \^ to withftand and make refiftance. Nor \?, our 
weakneffe greater then our backwardnefle to believe the 
promifcs of pcrfevcrance, when we ftand in moft need of 
them. When corruptions ftirrejand tentations be hot and 
fierie, and we finde our felves ready to faint, then are wc 
tofeeke cf a promife that might uphold againfl: the feare 
of falling away ; or if the promife be at hand, we cannot 
lay hold upon it, fome mift or other comes bctweene \t 
andthe eyeof ourunderftanding. Many good Chriftians 
are kept un«ler with this temptation. They are afraid they 
fhall never hold out, if perfecution fhould come, they 
ftand in doubt left they ftiould fall away as many have 
done,who made greater fhewes, and feemed to have gone 
further then ever they did. And whileft they diftruftfully 
qucftion their perfeverance,aU prcfent favours fecme lefle 
then otherwife they would,all other pfomifes be held the 
more weakly ,and Satan takes advantage to fill their hearts 
with manifold difcomforts. God (I denienot} doth order 
thefe temptations to the beft, and will doe his children 
good by them : for hereby they arc driven to diftruft 
themfelves and run unto God, and relic upon him m all 
their ncceffities : nevertheleffe the many perplexities, 
wherein they arc entangled for want of faith in the pro- 
mifcs of pcrfevcrance, doth fufficiently convince, how 
neceflary it is wc ftiould labour to have our hearts efta- 
bliihed in this confidence, that tlie Lord will ncv^r leave 
us nor forfake us. 

T 3 Confi- 



»77 

Byferiommedi- 
tat ion on thefe 
promijes »e 
muft fettk our 
felvei inbelit- 
vini,tt>hich u 
•very necej^ary. 



y- 



278 



"Prevention of 
m bbje&iQft, 



^P^.^I.I30.4. 



I eot.9.27. 

z Tiai.4..7j8, 



I lohn,4,l9' 



what: it is to live hj Faith to^chht^ 

Confid ence in the promifes of perfcverance doth encou- 
rage aad quicken in a Chritlian courfe, ftabliOi in wel do- 
ing, and hearten againft the greateft difficulties. OFold it 
hach beene objecfted againltthe doddne of aflbranceof 
not falling away, that it doth fct open a doore to all licen- 
tioLifneffe : for if men cannot fall from tlieir ftate of hap- 
pinede, why HiouM they feare to commit all kind of wic- 
kedneflei But he that hath faith in deed, will not, nay, he 
cannot take courage to goe on in (in, upon this pretence, 
that faith once had cannot utterly be loft- The believer 
knowes himfelfe bound to the obedience of the Gofpell, 
though he be freed from the damnation of the law : and 
certaine it is, that faith which knits to Chrift, doth leade 
us forth in all holinefle. * Mercy covering finne doth be- 
get reverence : the more adurance of falvation in a mans 
loule, the more feare and trembling in a mans courfe. He 
whoisbeft affured hath mod power of Gods Spirit,, and 
theftrongcr the Spirit oFGodis wkhin, the more holi-~ 
neflfe, and fruits of grace without. Taul ws^ aflared that 
nothing fhould feperate him from the love of God in 
Chrift : Pefer was affured, that his faith fliould not faile : 
did this make them the more carelcfle ? Nay, rather the 
more carcfull to runne their race | the more couragious to 
fight out their combate. : The load-ftone of love is love » 
Love in the fliperibur doth draw love from the inferiour: 
and is it then poffible for us to apprehend fuch unfpeakable 
love- of God in choofing us tofiich an excellent, happy, 
I unchangeable condition, and not be affccfled to love the 
I Lord againe .^ Of neceffity, the faith whicli conrinueth 
I muft be lively, Borxan it: imbracetbepron^fes oPperfe- 
; vcrancc but whilft it is lively. The more operative faith 
i isj the greater , our affurance of future ftanding i if faith 
i bedormant or languifli for a time, for thjit time we are 
j to feeke of this comfort; nor can it be recovered .till faith 
I recover, and put forrb it fclfei valiantly in combating a- 
j gainft -Sathan> iubduing corAiption^jInd working righ* 
jteoulhefle. . :.■ ;.i,;r.^.•;. v.; 

1 ' L'ooke 



thefromifes offerfeveyance,^c. 



2 7P 



Looke how much wc come {hort inbdicving the faith- 
full promifes of God concerning our future protedlion 
from all hurtful! evils, (the grcatcfl: whereof is failing 
away ) fo much are we lacking to found peace and ftable 
tranquillitie of Minde and Confcience.T he better we have 
learned to live by faith in Chrift, as the Author and finf- 
fher of our faitbj and raifer of us up at thelafl: day, the 
greater and more Redfaft is our comforr. The men | 
of this world be not fatisfied with the pofle/lion of their 
purchafed inheritance, but they feeke to ftrengthen and 
afTuretlwir title ag^inft future claimes, before they can 
Se quiet. Whrn a Chriftian is acquainted with tliepro- 
' mi(e.?'oFpardot5 and'torgivsncflc, bclicveMiinJChrift'for 
ialvatitn, a'nd is reconciled: unto God- '.When bis con- 
fcience is purged, that- there remainetb no more terrible 
remembrance of finnes pad: ; his liifts flibducd and van- 
quilTned ; his hrart quieted from all perturbations ; and all 
inward difturbance, which was in man againft himfelfe,* 
done away ; and when thefe things arc knowne untotlie^ 
Confciencc : yet one thing is wanting to foundand full- 
peace; that is, holy fecurityfor time to come againft all 
enemies both inward and outward, that they (hall not 
hurt us much leffe prevailc againft us. For ifwhat wc pof^ 
fe0c may utterly be loft, or what wc hope and cx|)e(ft be 
mcerely uncertaine and conj'edlurall, builtupon the good 
ufe of our free-will, and not upon the free and unchange- 
able grace of God, what reft or quiet in refpcd:ofhis 
future eftatecan any man finde inhimfelfe? but let the 
heart beefi ablifhed inthis, that God wiil carrie him for- 
ward from grace to grace tillhebave broughrhim to his* 
everlafting Kingdome j that his faith fliall never faiie, the 
grace!? of the Spirit (hall nevTr wither and decay ; Sathan 
with all his malce, the world with the manifold allure- 
ments thereof fliall never pre vaile againft Jiim-thisfreeth^ 
frotii much heart-griefe, perpicxirie, diftruftfull forrow, 
and unprofitable trouble,when he feelcs his dWnc weak- 
nefTe, thinkcs of Sathan and the worlds power, hearcs of 

T 4 the 



28o 



iTim.i.ii. 



Thegsdly are 
aUoived to be- 
lieve their fer' 
, Severance, 



Roin.8.30. 



I b Mat.6. 1 3. 
c lohn i6.z3 



Wkat: it is to live hy Faith touching 

the falls of fome who have gone farrc in the profcflion of 
godliacfle,and cafts with bitnfclfe what perfecutionsmay 
be raifed againft him for the truth and Gofpell. This alfo 
refreiheth the heart with fwcet and heavenly comfort, in 
the midft ofthofe many trials & incumbrances, which we 
do and muft make account to meet witball : and this our 
heavenly Father 4cnew to be no more then neceflary for 
our chearfull walking before him. For the which cattfe I 
Alfoftif^r thefe things, neverthe/ejfe, lam not A[hamed:for 
Ikvioyo whom I have believed^ and lam perftvadedthat he is 
able to keepe that which I have committed nnto him againH 
that day. 

And feeing God hath promifed to perfe^ the workc of 
grace begun,and bound bimfelfc by covenant to confirme, 
ftrengthen, and ftablifh his children unto the end, and in 
the end to give them eternall lifejfuch as find any true and 
lively worke of grace wrought in them,are allowed from 
God to believe, that they fhall never perifh, nor quite be 
broken off from Chrift, nor thofe living waters cleane be 
dried up, but notwithftanding their ownc infirmities, and 
the fore temptations wherewith they are opprefTcd, they 
(hall be preferved,upheld, and kept anto falvation. For 
what God hath confirmed by .promife and covenant unto 
his, children,undcrtaken to effcd by his Almighty power, 
and ratified by earned and pawne,that thsy are al'owed to 
believe and expert from him of his unchangeable grace 
and love. This is the golden andindiffolublc cbaine which 
the Apoftls fpeakes of, whom he did predefiinate^ them 
alfo hee called: and whom he caHed, them hee alfo JHjlified: 
and whom hejafiified, them he alfo glorified; {o that t^dxi- 
all vocation is a pledge and token of glorification to en- 
liie. 

Chrifl a hath prayed for his people, that their faith 
might not faile : ^ the faithfull pray inftantly, Lead us not 
into temptatio»:and <= that no man might waver ,a promife 
h^nntxcdjfVhatfoever )e /h(t/l asks the Father in my Ntime, 
he will give it yon. Bat without qaeflion>they haveallow- 
! ancc 



thepromifes.ofperfeverancejd)LC. 



2gl 



ancc to believe the -obtaining of that which Chrifthath j \ lohn.5.14, 
prayed for, and the faitbfull askeof God in the Name of 
Chrifl: according to his will.Thefervants of Chrifl: who li- 
ved by the like pretious faith with us, grounded upon the 
fame promifeSj& lub jed tothe fame temptations jbelieved 
their perfeverance. lam^erfwaded, that neither death, nor Rom.8.^ 8,35 
life^nor Angels yHor ■principalities^nor powers^ner things pre- 
/enty nor things to comCy nor height nor depthy nor any other 
creatureyjhall be able tofeperate from the love ofGodytvhich 
is in Chrifl lejm our Lord, iAccoriing to mine earneji ex- 
peilationyand my hope that in nothing I /ball be ajhamed: bm FhJ. 1.20. 
that with aliboldne^eyOS alrvayesfo nowalfo Chriftjhallbee 
magnified in my bodjy whether it bee by life or by death, 
iy€nd the Lord pj all deliver mee from every evill vcorke iTim.j.iS, 
and will preferve me unto his heavenly kingdome, to whom 
bee glory for ever and ever, <»Amen, But whatone belie- 
ved upon common and ordinary grounds, that is the pri- 
viledge of all believers which they are allowed to re- 
ceive. 

It isagreat glory to God, that we Ywc by faich on him 
concerning our future eftatc, and rdie upon his gracCjthat 
in all encounters we fhall be more then C oncf tier our s^ 
through him that loved tts. For this is to take God to be 
our God, not onely to put our confidence in him ia pro- 
fperityand adverfity, when we have meanes, ormeanes 
be wanting, for our foules and bodies : but alfo to relie 
upon him, that he will make us walkc in his Commande- 
mcnts, and put his fcare in our hearts, that wc {ha 11 not 
depart from him ; that he will perfed his worke begun 
in us, finifh our faith, and preferve us unto his cverlafting 
kingdomc. This faith doth give unto God the praife of 
all grace which he is pleafedto befl:ow,and ofaU workes 
of grace which he cfFe(fteth by us. He that relieth upon 
the good ufeof his free-will, muft neccflarily afcribe the 
praife of his perfeverance in parr, if not principally, unto 
himfelfe : but he that reReth upon the Lord for eftablifli- 
ment againft all fpirituall enemies, and ability unto eve- 



{ 



282 



Thea5fsoffa.ith 
concerning jier. 
feverance. 
I. 



t Cor. 3. J. 



Tf^^at it is to live by Faith touching 



Iob,9.'a8. 

Gatak.S'/'irffM 
all jVatch^pag 
84.. 



ry good worke, he mud neccffarily afcribc the whole 
praife unto the glory ot Gods grace, upon which he do.h 

'The ads of faith concerning perfeverance be thefe and 
fiLchh'ke. 

Firft', It makes a man fcnfible of his owne frailcie, and 
infirmity,how weake and feeble he is, apt not only to fall, 
but even to fail away Jf he were not upholden by the grace 
and power o^God.N e>t that we are [ujficieMt ofonrfelves to 
thinkeayiy thing as ofourfelvestbtit ourfnfficiensie is of God, 
\ Naturally wetruft m our felves, and are prefumptuous of 
I c-ur ftrength ; but when by faith we goe forth of our 
I felves unto God for helpe, we can fee nothing in our 
j felves but weakncfle and frailtie. 
\ Secondly, Itftirresupholy j'ealoufie and fufpition, left 
I we fhould coolc, decay, ftart afide, or fall backc. Faith is 
j bold and timerous, confident and fufpitious : confident in 
j God , fufpjtious of our felves. / nvoi afraid ( fairh 
■Job) of all my weyk£s\ knowing, thdt if Ididmcksdly^ 
I thou wouUfl not acquit mf. And this iufpition doth beget i 
care to fliunne occafions of finnc, and watchfulnelfe to j 
j prevent fpirituall diftempers. A man jealous of his health ! 
is warie in his diet : and he that hath his foulc in fufpi- ' 
tion will ever be queflioning with itjand watching over it ; 
leaO: he fhould offend. This jealouHe is ever waking, apt | 
to caR the worfi: that may fall out, but to counfell the bed, 
that is, tokeepefarre from the occafionsoffin, abftaine | 
from all appearance of eviil,andtakehcede of the fnare in j 
lawfull bufinefles of this life. And furcly, in this kinde, ' 
confidering our great frailty, it is more behoovefull for a ' 
man to be fome what too heedie andcautelous, then to be ■ 
a little too fecure and fclfe confident ; to be fufpitious of, 
bis weakneffe that he may be enabled by God and become j 
ftrong in him, then while he is foole-hardic and [Irong in I 
his owne c9nccit,torunintodanger,and prove wcake in I 
triall. I 

Thirdly, Faith inftantly cricth unto the Lord for helpc, ! 

and 



thefromifes offerfc'verancej^c. 



283 



and ftrength, and continuall fupply of grace. H&ld up my 
goings in thy paths,t'haf my footfieps flip not. I will keepe thy 
fiatutes : O forfake me net utterly. Loo!^ thou upon me, and 
be mercifiill unto mee:ss thoft tifefl to doe Hnto thofe that love 
thy Name.Grder myfteps in thy reord^and lit not my inlqy,i- 
tj have dominion over me. T)rdyo me, wee n>ill rnnne after 
thee. Shew me thy waief, O Lord ; teach me thy paths. Lead 
me, in thy trmh,and teach meifor thou art the Goiofmy faL 
vat ion J on thee doe I waite all the day long, W hen men be 
confcioLis to themfelves of their own want?, they. are 
wont to refo^'t unto others by whom their wants may be 
fupplied : The Believer is emptie in himfelfe, and fenfible 
of his owne weakneffe,de{irous of fupply ,and confident of 
help in God,who alone is able to confirms and ftrengthen 
him, yeafoto inablehim notwithftanding his infirmity,, 
that his power and might fliall appeare in him amidft 
his fceblenelTe, and his very infirmity Oiall make much 
for his glory : and therefore he will not ccafe day after 
day to rcpairc unto him for continuall fupply and ftrength 
ofgracc. 

Fourthly, Faith defireth; digeflcth, and feedeth upon 
thewholfome food of life, tiy^s new borne babes deftre 
the Jincere milke of the Word, that yee may ^rovs> thereby. 
If the body be healthfull, and in cafe to grow in ftrength, 
there will be an appetite to wholeiome food,and good di- 
gcftion by the flomacke ; every living thing hath a facul- 
tie to draw nourifliment unto it felfc.and the faith which 
never faileth doth not onely covet, but kindly digeft the 
Word of life, and fucke nourilTiment from it, where- 
by it is made able and ftrong to every good word and 
worke; If the ftomacke decay, or the appetite be inor- 
dinate after things hurtfull and unwholfome food, or the 
digeftion ill, that mcatc taken in pa(Tethaway notaltc- 
I red by the ftomacke, the naturalllife is in danger ; fothe 
I life of grace languifheth, when our appetite to the word 
I decayeth, we aftecfl earthly things immoderately, dclighc 
! in a frothy, windic, vaine found of words, which pleaicth 
^' the 



pfAl.17.5. 
Pfal.115.8. 



PfaI.IIc?,I32 

Cant 1,4. 



2, Tim 4.17. 
iCor. u.^jic 
a Cor. 4. 7, 



4. 

z Pet.2.2. 



284 



what it is to live by Faith touching 

the care, but edifiech not the confcience, or if we bcarc 
fleigbtlyjWe take not paincs to teed fubftancially upon the 
Word.I denic not,but a lively never- fading faith is fub/e(5l 
to thefe and more grievous diftempers for a time, but in 
this languifliing fit, though it be not unto death ; untiilit 
recover, it is unable to embrace the promifes of perfeve- 
raticc: and the more lively it is to receive thofcpromifey, 
the more earneftly doth it defire and fwcetly feed upon 
the Word of grace. 

Fiftly, It pucteth forth it felfc, to performe all duties 
of holinefle and love, with life and fervour : It labourcth 
and taketh paincs in wcl-doirg. For Idleneffe corrupts 
naturall ftrength ; ufe and exercife confirmes it. Dull and 
fluggifh anions argue feeblenes of the faculty, and tend 
unto decay j as if we doe not things with that vigour we 
have done, it is a iigne of infirmity, and of a faculty in- 
wardly or outwardly hindered, and if we reft in fuch a per- 
funflory courfe and challenge not our felves for it, we are 
in danger to grow worfe and worfe. But livelinefle and 
contention in doing is both an argument of good difpofi- 
.tion, and a meanes of increafe. The more lively faith is, 
the better it worketh : and the more it worketh, the j 
faftcr it groweth. Life is the daily and continuall vigour 
ofa living fubftance : and every thing, as it is moft lively 
and likely to continue, the more it doth fhow forth it 
ftrength in working. For a time faith may fall aflecpe, 
and the a(5lions of faith be heartlefle, dull, and perfundlo- 
rie : but faith now aflcepc will awake anonc, ftiakeiip it 
fclfe, ftirre up affedions, refift floth, blow up devotion, 
and reftleflcly afpire after heavenly things. And like as it 
is with them, whofc going backe helpeth them to take 
their rife and fetch their Icapc more coonmodioufly, or 
whofe lingring for a feaf^n makes them to ply their bufi- 
neflfe the dofer afterward : So here, faith (through him 
that is the Author and finifher of it)after fuch remiflenefle 
doth renue its indeavours,and with more vigour and holy 
contention fet upon the workes of piety and godlinefle, 

ftirre 



tbepromfes offerfeverancCyStc. 



285 



ftirreup the graces of the Spirit, tic up the thoughts to 
heavci ly things ,labour aga nft winde and tide, and walke 
before Cod in all wel-pleafipg, though not without great 
weakneflc, 

Sixtly, It covetcthccreafe of grace and fandification; 
Hrafe mte, O Lordy and I (hnllbe healed: fave wr, undl 
Jhall he[4ved: for thou art my praife. Lord be mercfuH 
unt9 meet heate my fhule^ for I have finned agAhfi thee, 
How are men 8fF:(^ed in recovering bodily health, fbme- 
what better will not content or fatisfie ? W hen they can 
(it up, but notable to walke up and downe the cham- 
ber, oh that hey had a little ftrength to ftirre : when 
they dare walke within doores, oh that they could ftirre 
abroad; then that their ftomackes were returned, and 
they could walke in their acc'v>omcd ftrength. Every 
living thing, the more it doth live, the more it coveteth 
perfedion of life in it kindc. And fo is faith afteded in 
receiving fpirituall ftrength from the fickneflc of fin, 
till it feele it felfe enlarged to walke conftantly and chear- 
fully before the Lord, yea, till it be perfectly recovered, 
which cannot be fo long as we carrie about us this bodie 
of death. By reafon man excelletb the be4fts, by holincffe 
hcexcellethhimfelfc, infcriour only to the Angels in de- 
gree, and made like unto the Lord, as farrc as a creature 
may be to his Crcatour. Sin is the fickneflc of the foule, 
fo much more lothfomc and dangerous then diftempers of 
the body, as the foule is more excellent then the body : 
Holineflc is the healthj otnamentj and excellency of the 
foule, as farre furpaffing it in worth, as man doth the ba- 
fcft creature in dignity and hone ;ur. There is no trouble, 
/liame, and forrow to fin : there is no honour and com- 
fort to holinefle and fanftification. According to the na- 
ture of holineflc, fo is the fruit ; the merchandife there- 
of 96 better then the merchandife of ftlver^ and the gahe 
thereof then fine gold '^ It ii more pretiotts then rubies, 
and whatfoever can bee dejired vfithout it, is not to be corn- 
fared unto it. The natmall man neglcfteth to feckc after I 

holi- ' 



Icr.17.14. 

i'ral4i.4. 



PIOV.5.14.1J. 



, 



2S6 



what it is to live by Faith touching 



7. 

lohn.i.i^. 



^ Ephef.4.7. 
John.6.j5,57 



8. 

Ie1-.j1.40. 
Iohn,<S.54, 



holinede or cake paincs to get it, bccaufe he fceles not the 
fickne fle of hjs loule, nor undcrftands thfc worth and fruit 
of grace : But the true Believer, who is grieved with his 
infirmities, and knowcs the excellencie and eomFortof 
fpirituiU health, eai.not but defire and covet grace 
more and more^ thai in due time he might be per fecftly 
healed. _ ♦ > 

Seventhly, Itrcceivcthnew fupply of grace continu- 
ally from Jefus Chrift the fountaine of grace. Ofhiifnl- 
ne^e have wee all received^ anci grace for grace : Chrift 
is an ever- flowing fountaine of grace, ofwhofe plenty all 
Believers are abundantly parrakers,and that from one de- 
gree of grace to another, though not ail in the fame mea- 
furc and degree. Water in a ditch, which hath no living 
fpring to feed ir, is foonc dried up : but the pond, which 
is nourifhed continually with frcili fprings, doth not 
feare the drought of Summer, orkorching heat of the 
Sunnc.The Temporarie,who was never knit unto Chrift, 
as a living naturall and proper member, may fall away 
from that which he feemed to have ; But the true Belie- 
ver, in * whom Chrift, the fountame of life, dwclleth, 
who daily receives grace from him according b to the rae ab- 
jure of the gtft of Chrift:, he fhall never utterly be dcftitute. 
Hee that eateth ntyfie/h, anddrtnheth my hloudj dwelleth in 
mee and I in hint. As the livingFather hathfent me, and I 
live by the Father :fo hee that eateth me, even hee Jhall live 
hymc' 

Eightly, It aflureth of pcrfeverancc through fuch pro- 
mifes as thefe ; I will make yon to walke inmjQomman- 
dements j I will put mj feare in ytur heart , that yot* fhall 
not depart. Who (0 eateth my flepj, and drink^th my 
blowi^ hath eternall life, and I will raife him up at the 
lafl day. Bnt Faith giveth afTurance of perfeverance as it 
doth of the pardon and forgivenf fle of fins ; and what is 
neceflary to be knowne of that point, hath beene largely 
handled before. 

Now if a Chriftian would ftirre up his faith to believe 

the' 



thefromifes offerfeveyMce,^c. 



iSj 



the promifes of perfevcrance, when he fceles his owne 
weakncffe, and conadcreth the ftrength.and maliee of his 

Advcrfarics. , ' tr ^ r 

Firft, Let him heartily bewaile his pronencflc to fmne, 
aptneffctodcchne, inability to withftand any one temp- 
tation, or fet one Bcp forward m the way to Heaven. 
Woe is rac, poore wretched, blinde,lamc, crooked.dcke, 
impotent, unftable as the running, water :_ How was! 
bewitched with lelfe-confidence and conceit of fpirimall 
fulncflc > I bave prcfnmed upon my wiidome, as iuttici- 
enttodirccflmy wayes ; and leaned upon my ftrengtb, as 
able to make refiaance againft temptations, ftandupQn 
mine owns bottome, and go through (litch with my re- 
folutions : But nowlfmdc my wifdome is ignorancf, 
vanity, and folly, my ftrength weakneffc : I am unabie to 
tbinkeone good tliought, fet one ftep forward towards 
Heaven, kecpe my ftanding, or withftaiid the leaft affault. 
In painc I am pettiOi, under croffes faint, heartlefie, dil- 
content, ready to fiie at the found of perfecution,fecure in 
profperity, puffed up with comforts,, apt to be led away 
with worldly allurements. My fpirituall tafte is diftem- 
pered with carnall vanities, which rcli(h fweeter to me 
then the mercies of God in Chrift ; mine appetite to the 
Word and food of life is abated, my zeale decayed, mine 
affcrtions dull to good, my devotion cooled, my conla- 
ence bcmimmcd. I hcare, but feed not upon the Word ; 
my Prayers arc cold,heartleffc,roving ; in earthly imploy- 
ments I kecpc no moderation, daily weaknefles and lelier 
finnes goe downc without rcluaation : the motions ot 
the Spirit quickly die, the motions of the fteOi live and 
get ftrength, admonition is fruitles,reproofe unwelcome. 
In my courfe I am ready to ftumble at every rub,linger at- 
t€r every baitc laid by Sathan or the world to catch me, 
and totter upon the fmalka tentation. Every day I have 
greater experience of my weakeneffe then other, loone 
diftempered and put oucof fra.re ; it by any mcanes for 
ah'ttle time my heart be brougnt into Come better order,l 
' am 



Meanes to flint 

up ourfelve! to' 
helieie theft 
promifes o. per 
I ever an ce. 
I. 



288 



2. 



W^at it is to live by Fdth touching 



am forgottoll of my purpofes,negligcnt of the opportuni- 
ties to get good, diftradled with lawhiU bufincflc, and 
wearie of the workcs of my calling,perplcxcd at the trou- 
bles I mcctc with, giving way to frowardneffe, not loo- 
king up to God : unthankful! for mercies, trifling out the 
time in foolifli furmifes, vaine ploddings, and unpro- 
fitable fpeechcs. The poore, leanc, thinne fruits of 
grace, which through the mercy of God now and then 
I efpie in my felfc, thefe prodaimc my fickc and feeble 
ftate : my thoughts and meditations of good are poore 
and few ; drivings againft (in weake, appetite to the 
wholfomc food of life fmall, digcftion flow, obedience 
marvellous defeftivc and in a manner liveleffe. I live un- 
der the powerfull mcanes ofgrace, enjoy many he Ip5 in 
private, amfree from many great tentations, wherewith 
others are exercifed in refped of their <5utward condition, 
blcfled with the fociety of them that feare God, pruned 
and drefled by my heavenly Father, and yet I reelc, wa- 
ver, am toflcd to and fro, and ready to fall upon every 
occafion. Ah, wretched man that I am, how fhall 
I be able to (land, if the mcanes fliould faile, pcrfc- 
cutions be railed, or the powers of Hell let loofe upon 
me. 

Secondly, He miift ftirrc up himfelfe to reft upon God 
through Jefus Chrift- for eftablifhment and confirmati- 
on. Why ftiould I feare by reafon of mine infirmities, or 
the malice of my fpirituall enemies ? I am ficke, but God 
is my phyfitian ; wcake, but God is my rocke, my 
ftrengtb, my high tower ; I like a loft (heepe am ready 
to goc aftray, but the Lord is my Shepheard, and will 
not fuifer mee to perifli. Chrifts interceffion is ever 
effeduall : but he hath prayed that my faith fliould not 
faile, and promifed that the gates of hell (hall not pre- 
vaile. The fonsofe^<<Ww, mortall bytirth, can never 
grow beyond the ftate of mortality : the children of God 
borne of immortall feed can never fall from the ftate 
of immortality. True faitk is a never fading faith, the life 



of I 



tbefnmifes offerfeverance,dicc. 



of grace an everlafting life, the water of life^ a well fprin" 
ging unto ctcrnall life. Chrifl: once died for fincc, never 
to ()iiz any more : and he that Hveth in Chrifl: fhall live for 
ever. Indeed if faith were the workc of free will, or had 
dcpendance uponir, it might well perifh, butbcingihe 
intire gift of God according to hispurpofc of grace, it 
mufl: needs partake of the unchangablc love of God, 
which is the fountaine whence it fprinfcth. I will waike 
jealous of my fclfe, becaufc feeble and apt to offend ; but 
confident in Gods mercy and grace jbecaufe he is faithful!, 
who fhall confirme me unto the end, and perfcd his 
worke he hath begun. My care fhall be to feed up- 
on the word of life, to fhunne fin and the occafions lea- 
ding thereunto, to cry for aid and ftrength ; and when I 
fcele my fclfe ready to finke, I will hang upon the Lord; 
for his power fliall fuftaineme, his right hand (hall up- 
hold me, and by his might I fhall be kept through faith 
unto falvation. zA brnijed reede Jhall hee notbreakcy and 
fmoakJKg flaxe Jhall hee not quench, till hee fend forth 
judgement into vi^sry : his power fhall be magnified in 
my weaknefTe. 

Thirdly, He muft. pray inftantly, that God would up- 
hold him, and make him to fee that he will eftablifh him 
unto the end. Our ftrength is of God, and it is of him 
that we know or be afTured, that through the power of 
his grace we fhall ftand firme and unmoveable. , The 
ftate of a Believer is fure, and it is impofTible the eledT; 
fhould be deceived : but as they (land by the grace of 
God, fo it is of God that they know their ftanding. O 
Lord God of heaven, the great and terrible God, that 
keepeth covenant and mercy for them that reft upon thy 
gratious promife and defire to yeeld up themfelves in 
obedience to thy Commandements, looke mercifully 
upon me, thy weake unworthy fervant : heale mine 
infirmities, for they arc many, and ftablifli mc by thy 
free Spirit, for I am brought very low. Remember, I 
befeech thee, the word of thy covenant, faying, I will 

V give 



2S9 



Matt^.!»,ao, 
1 Cor. 12.^. 



290 



Hew to live b^ Faith intimeofTem^tatlon^ 



Icr,3iS934<5' 



give phem one heart and one tvaythat they mnjfeare me for 
every for theg(>oiofthemy and ef their children after them, 
\ iy€nd I will make an everU^ing covenant mth thenty that I 
, wis not turne avsfay fiom them to doe them good, hut IwiSpftt 
\ my fears in their hearts, that they Jhall not depart jtom mee. 
jNowI am thy poore creature, the works of thine hands 
^ whom thou haft made ; thy poore fervant wich whom 
' thou haft ftricken covcnant.unto whom thou haft ftiewed 
. this mercy, thati defire to fearcthy Name : O Lord, I 
bcfecch thee, teach me thy way, make me to walke in thy 
truth, unite my heart to thy feare, confirmc, ftrengthen, 
ftablifti me unto the end, and make me to know that by 
thy powcrirnallbc inabled to ftandfaft, andvanquilli 
the enemies of my falv^ation, that I may fight manfully, 
obey cticerfully, perfift undaunted, and re/oyce in thy fai- 
yatioK all the dayes of my life. 



N: 



CHAP. VI. 

Hovfito live hj faith ia time of Temptation, when 

Sathan encounters and feekes to winnow 

the poore fervants of 

Chrifi. 

O fooner doth a Chriftian fet himfd'^c unfaincdly to 

feeke the Lord, but Sathan with all his malice, fub- 

I Pet.j.S. 1 tiltie, might, and furiedoth mak« out after him, affaying 

by inward fuggeftions and outward tentations agame and 

againe reiterated to difcourage, turne backe, and utterly 

overthrow him. The fervants of Chrift are all fouldiers, 

and have continuall warre not vrithflefh andblotti^but with 

P" •! 5 • principalities atidpowerSy and ^irituallmckednejfes. This 

Encouraoe- I ^'^^ ^^^ cxped, they have fworne i!:,and are callecf unto 

nernnorefijf Jtof the Lord ; who for their incouragement dotb not 

Nathan . ' ^ only acquaint them with the neceflicy of the fighr,the juft- 

^ * ' ncfle 



jv hen Sathan atcounters the ftrv ants ojchriji. 



2^1 



nefle of their caufe,thc weight of the bufineffc^thc honour 
of the combat, the reward ofvidory if they overcome, 
that hehimfclfc doth behold and approve the valiarit ; but 
alio by hisfaithfull promifedoth afiurethcrhof ftrength 
and vid;ory. This is Hgnificd in the firfi promife. //■ p^esll 
hrmle thy head^ and then jhult hnife his hetk : which 
properly being undcrftood of Chrift, by communication 
of grace doth belong to all the faithful!. SiwoMy Simor\ 
behold Sathan hath defired to have yott, that hee might 
f^ft you oi reheaie : Bm I have frayed fer thee, that thy 
faith fade not, fVhtrefore take unto joh the vrhole armour 
of God, that yee may bee able to veithfiand in the evill 
dmy^ and having done all tofland. Refisl the Divetl, and 
' hee fp ill flee jromyoff, Hee that is begotten of G od keefeth 
himfe/fe, and that tvie^d one toucheth hiot KOt, T'he gates 
of hell fj all not prevaile again jl it. For I am f erf waded, 
that neither death, nor life, nor Angels, nor principalities y 
nor powers, nor things prefent, nor things to come. 2{jr 
height, nor depth, nor any other creature, Jhall bee able t0 
fepetate w from the love of (jod, which is in Chrifl lefus 
our Lord. Sathan was the ftrong man armed, who pof- 
fcfTcd all in peace : but our Saviour hath overcome him, 
taken from him all his armour, and divided his fpoi cs- 
Having foiled principalities and powers, hee made a /hew of 
them openly, trinrnphing over them upon the^rojfej and 
fo through death hath defiroyed him that had the porver of 
death, that is, the Divell, that hee mi^ht deliver aUthem 
which f or feare of death veere all their lifefubjeSl to bondage, 
fpherefore he faith, -when he afcendedup on high, he led capti- 
vitie captive. 

In this flate of temptation the fcrvants ofGod arc al- 
lowed to live by faith. For the God of peace hath pro- 
mifedto tread Sathan un.'^er oar feet frortly, opportunely. 
When Sathan may feeme to prcvaile and get the vidorie, 
God will fpcedily bruife and crufli him under the feet of 
the faithful), leaft he (hould hurt or overthrow their fal- 
vation. The craft of Sathan is great to deceive, but God 

V 2 will 



Apoc.t, 11.16, 

Apoc.j.ii. 
lam. 1.12. 
Fromifes of 

Gen, 5. 1 5. 



Luk. 



ia-3i>3i 



Eplufe,! j. 
Iair.4,7. 

I lohn.y.ig. 
Mat. 10, 18. 



Rom.8,38,5^ 



Luk. 11.21, 



Col.i. 



ij. 



Hcb.i.i4,ij, 

Epbef.4,8. 

ThegoJly are 
allowed to be- 
lieve tie promt- 
fes of viSioiy. 
Rona. 16.20. 



Pfal.5o-X». 



i I loh.j.tj. 



Efay.30.1f 
iPct.$ $. 



291 ! .HowulwehjF4ithi»Hfne9fTemftm'ion^ 

tCor.x*.7,8,f will teach wifdome and proridcncc to difccrne and difap- 

Rom.^.14. point his ftratageras. The power of Sathan is great to 

Imoleft, but if we iSght qianfuUy againft him, not tru- 

ifting in our owne ftren^th, but in the living Lord, wc 

fliall obtaine a joyfull vidloric. Wc mud not be flothfuU 

\ nor felfe-confident, but valiant in the Lord, and the fuc- 

cefle is certaine through his bleffed aide. Through God rve 

Po%lldoe vAltantlj :for he it is that /ha/I tread downe our ene^ 

Plies, 

This is the commdndement of Gody that \»e beheve in the 
name of his Sonne lefm Chriji, Nothing is fo glorious to 
God : nothing fo profitable to us. It doth give God, as 
it were, a teftimoniall of his truth,, power, mercy and 
goodnelTc. And for our felvcs, it is our treafure, ftrength 
and vidrory . God hath chofen thepoore ofth^ vi>orld,rkh in 
faith. In quietne^e, and in confluence JhaH be yonrfirength. 
We have a charge to refifi the Divell flrong in the faith. 
The more fiercely we be aflailed, the more confidently 
fliould wc betake our felves unto the Lord for helpe,who 
is our ftrong caftle,and rocke of defence. In peace if men 
let their armour hang by and ruft ; y^t it is time to buckle 
it about them, when the enemy is at the gates, and begin- 
neth to batter the walls.Thc Lord permits Sathan to buffet 
us, that we might be moved to feeke and take unto as 
the armour of a Chriftian, more efpecial'y to put on the 
fhicld of faith. To doubt and feare becaufe we are exerci- 
fed in fpirituall combats, is as if a fouldier (hould lay afidc 
his harnefTc, becaufe he is called forth to battell with 
his enemies. The Apoftle fpeaking of our fpirituall con- 
I flid: with the malicious enemies of our foules, chargcth 
' us not onely to believe, but above all things to labour af- 
Ephef.^.i<f. jtgj. faiths . ^ygye all things takif^g the fhieU of faith : 
\ which manner of exhorting doth'lliew us, both what 
care we mafl: have of it, and what approbation we have 
j from God to believe. For if we bid a fervant buy many 
things, but above all fuch a thing, by his charge he might 
eafily gather what he fkould be carefull in, and what al- 
lowance 



tphen SAthan encounters thefer'vants ojCJirift, 

lowancc he bad to do k.So when we arc counfellcd above 
ali tbingsco get ftitb, it is 'noi bard to-jwido-todj that wc 
muftbe cbkfcly carefcrl about iria3id:tb«r:G<]^is well 
pleafcd wc IBould fo be. • \; > -^ - :;• '-•r'J 

Faith is one of the firft things that is formed in -a Chri- 
ftian, and wherewith God furniHieth him, when be prc- 
parcth and callcth him forth to the encounter * fo that to 
queftion whether we (hould believe, is to queftion whe- 
ther we fliould dedicate our felves to the fervicpof God, 
dcnic our lufts, or fight againft the Divell. That which is 
febuloufly fpoken of the Giants is trirely fpokeia ixfus; wc 
arc no fooner borne, then we have our fwords girded to 
us, our {hiclds on our armes. i . . .; ; ^ c ; — 
\ The Lord (lands betwixt hiscbildtdn arid all'dani^cM 
that arc intended againft them by their malitions enemies.. 
j He is ever at tlieir right hand to fave their foules from 
death. And if God (land Forth for their help, they cannot 
better provide far their owne eafcand j(afcty,thcn iftbcy 
confidently hope in the Lord,aad repoffitbcirfotaiesii^on 
his-might*. : ■■:' ■: :■ .••:•;.:;■':.; •../.■ - 

It is neceffary tbataChriftian fliould live by faith in 
that condition. For all fpirituall fouldiers muft put on 
courage, and refolution,nottG fearctfacaffaulta of mighty 
enemies, nor be difmaycd at any difficultic5...i£*rw>_ya»r 
hearts fearcy tremble not hecttufe of^your enemies j cjHhy^ur. 
fellies like men, beflrong. But tFUC valour cannot be had 
without faith in Chrift. Standfafi in the faith, beftrffng. 
The Divell is Ukea ferpcntinc Ciocodile,whofe property 
is, if one follow, itfliethaway; if one flic, it purfueth 
him. Refift Sathan.andhe ypt/lflie ; be afraid, and he will 
follow. Cowardife doth encourage the adverfary, courage 
daunts him. But courage iflketh from found confidence in 
the Lord, who is the rocke and fhield of them-that flie 
unto him . rfaite on the Lird^be of good coutA^e^ dnd he Jhall 
Jirengthen thy heart . *Befirong and of a good coura^yf rare 
naty nor be airaidi>fthenf : for the Lord thy Ged -heit is that 
doth go rvith thee, he voiU n9tfaile thee, norffrfakf thee. 



25?5 



^f ii necej/aiy a 
Chrifiianjhould 
live by faith in 
thii condiiitn. 
Dear. 20, J, 

I Coi'.id.ij. 



lam. 



4-7' 



Pf.JI.2.&7I. 

Deuc.3a.4. 
Pfal.a7.14. 
& 31.14. 
Dcut 3i.<5,7,8 



2P4 



Hew ioUvehj Faith in tmisfTemftattm^ 



I Pet. I, J. 
Gen 5. If. 

Rom, 1 6. ao. 






Rom. 5.5. 
t Cor.j.f. 
Aa.3.16. 

Ephef. 6, 10. 



Exod.14. 13. 



PfaI,io8, 1 J. 



\latth, 16. 18. 
EphcC^.ifi. 



liTim.4 



Of our fclves we have no ftrcngth to prevaile againft 
the ftrong one in the world : all our vi(5tories muft cSomc 
of(3od, his pijwer doth all our workcsforus. Wee a,re 
k£pt by thepawer ofGoduntofaivatiorii he braifeth the Ser- 
pents hcad.he dirfolveth the workcs of the Divell,he trea- 
deth Sathan under feet. The chiefeft ftrength of fouldi- 
ers lyctb in their Captaine, who yet muft fight for them- 
fclvcs and him, by their owne power and skill : but all 
our ftrength ly eth in Chrift, the-Captainc that Icadeth us 
to falvation/rom whom we receive all power and ability 
to doe what is goodjwhofe Alnaighty power fubdueth all 
things for u"?. We our felves before our converfion arc 
of no ftrength, after alfo of no ftrength, not fufflcient ta 
thinks Agsodthotight : all our fufficiency is of God, But we 
cannot be ftrongin the Lord^ amd in the power of his 
might, unleffc we believe and leane upon it. Gods 
ftrength is the matter apprchended,faiththe hand where- 
by we apprehend it. This \% our {[vc':)gthyfianiifiill, feare 
notibeheld the fahation of the Lord, If we had the ftrength 
of our firft parents, and were left to our felves, we 
(hould come fhort of happineflc : this is all our fecurity, 
that it is Gods ftrength, being truftcd unto by faith, that 
muft helpeus to falvation : Through Gedwee jhall doe vai- 
limtlj: hcHs our fliicld, towcr^ rocke, ftrength, and 
glory. '^- 

Fiaith is of force tokeepc us againft allaflau'ts of the 
Divell : This is our vic^tory which overcommeth the 
world : this is fo mighty, that the powers of Hell cannot 
prevaile againft \x. Faith doth latch the fiery darts of the 
Divell, that they fall off without piercing Us : or if 
they enter, it doth quench and alky their burning heate, 
that they fhall not kill us. "Teter had the dart ftucke 
in him a while : but faith dxd. renew repentance ; and 
healed him, making the poyfon of finhe a Treacle, 
PhhI was buffeted with inward fuggeftions, and bad 
troubles as; thicke as haile-ftone? following him; yetaU 
thcfe prevailed not againft hirajbecaufc he kept the faith. 

The 



when SAth/w cnceunUrs thefer'vajifs^fChnfi, 



The DivcU will renew liis affaultsagaiiiftus, and we 
muft renew our courage and ftrength agairft him ; which 
cannot be done,unlefic we live by faith. He that hath no 
truft in himlclfe, but leancth on tlie power of God; willj 
though he fall often, ftill have hope, and be couragicus to 
fee upon his enemies with freih aflaults after fonne foyle 
received. For he that know es he hath no ftrength, can- 
not wonder, if when God Icaveth him he do fall : and h: 
that maketh Gods ftrength his ftay, though he be never 
fofarrc from a thing, yet will not caft away h6pc in time 
toobtaine. 

The adls of faith in refpedl of temptation be thefe or 
fuchlikc. 

Ffrft, Faith makes fenffble, that we canndt rcfift of out 
fclves. JBy Sathans force the mighty Cedars have bcenc 
ovcrcbrowne, and with more eafe we might be overtur- 
ned : Butyetwbenhcragetb with greatcft fury, itaiTu- 
rcth that he is chained up by the power of the Almighty 
God, and can go no further, then he will give him leave. 
W ell maav the Divell barke and roare,-like aband-dogge 
or Lion fafcly chained or fhuc up, but he cannot ftifre 
further then God is pleafed to let him lofe* He cannot 
tempt whom he will, nor when he will, nor how he 
would, nor by what mcanes, nor in what meafure he 
would, nor with wbattemptations,nor fot what continu- 
ance: in all thefc he is confined by the providence of God, 
who hath promifed, that he will not fuffer us to be temp- 
ted above that we arc able, but will with the temptation 
alfb make a way to efcape, that we may be able to beare 
it. A legion of Divels could not enter into a gahrene 
Hogge, till Chrift had given them leave. Sathan cannot 
touch one Blcate pertaining to loh, till he have obtained 
libcrtic : nor then lay a finger upon his body, till his li- 
berty be renewed. The Divell is the finfiill Author of 
Tcmptations,w hereby he feckes to moleft and overthrow 
the Saints: but God in his infinite wifdomeand mercie 
doth limit thetn, both in refped of time, place, perfon, 

V 4 and 



255 



The aSfs af 

faith in refpeit 
of thefi tempta- 
tions. 

I. 



Matth.4.1,2, 



I Cor. 1 0.1 J* 



Maikc.5.12. 

Job.i.i2.& 2. 
6. 



296 



, Jl&jvfaihe hf Faith in Pime ofTt 



2. 



II. 



and tcijiptatba it %^% ?ind&6i5l them to fuch an end as 
SatJian never intended. Faith fpeaketh on this wi(e,Sathan 
defires to fitc me gs \Vheate, ^uf it is the Lord who hath 
madechoiceafthistemptation, wherewith lam esLcrci- 
itdi^ rather then another, and hath fet bounds to the fpiri- 
tHall enemies of my foulc, what time they {hall continue 
to aflraile,how farrc they fliall proceed and no f urthcr,and 
will dire(5l the temptation to a good end, above all I can 
conceive ?; therefore I will not fearc the enemy but waite 
Upon the Lord. 

Secondly, Itdifcovereth the Methods of Sathan and his 
Ends in teiffipting. The Divcls airaes arc i^ot ever one and 
the fame. Alwayes he labours the deftrudion of the 
Saints ; but his wayes, whereby he endevours to eflfedt ft, 
are contrarie. Sometimes he purpofeth to entice unto fin 
by his allurements ; fometinics to vexe,trouble,and drive 
into defpairc ; at lead to make the life of a Chriftian un- 
comfortable with bis manifold and hcUifli affaults. This i-s 
wilclydiffcerned by faith, whereby the ftratagems of oar 
Adverfary arc more eafily difappointed.For as an enemy, 
whointcnds by palicic to get thevidoryj is more then 
balfe overcome when his plot is difclofed ? fo it is here, 
Sathan is foone difcomfited,when his intents and pro/cdts 
arc manifcfted and made knowne. 

Thirdly, It lifteth up the heart to crie and complaine 
unto God of the cruelty and malice of that Spirituall Ad- 
verfary : but fuffers it not to mufc upon his blafphemou* 
tcmptatioiK or to confcrre with them. If Rai^^ak^h re- 
vile the living God, the people o^lud^h will hold their 
peace, and not anfwer him a word, leafl: being inragcd he 
fhould blafpheme the more. Dircd oppofition in fach 
cafes ftirrctb up the outragious blafpbcmcr to grow 
( more furious. When the Divqll requires of our Saviour 
j to fall dow ne and wor{hip him, he reafpns not the cafe, 
,Matth,4.io. I but rcpellcth him wit^detcftation, ^voidSathdn. Gi^ 
vingus tounderftand, that the blafpbcmoiiis may not be 
reafoned with-, if they (hould, it w^uld siakc them but 

burft 



ETiy.j^.ai. 



rvhf* SAihan ememtcrs thfervmts ofchrift, j 29y 



burft-forth into greater outrage agaitift the peercleffc vvif- 
doine of God. W hcrefore if Sathan buffet us with fug- 
gcftions of this nature, it \s our wifdome toturne from 
him, and to make our complaint unto tl c Lord. So He- 
zel^ah fprcad the blalphemous letter of Sennacherib be- 
fore the Lord : And when the enemies of Z)4Winfulted 
over him, as though there had bccne no hclpe for him in 
his God, he crieth,, Lordy how are mifie enemies hcrea- 

Fourthly, By faith the poore foule, eying the promifc, 
betakes it lelfeunto the Lord for fuccour promifed, to be 
defended againft the malice of that roaring Lion. It is the 
promife of our Saviour, that Hell gates fhall not prevailc 
again it hi« faithfull people : they (hall fight againft them, 
but not prevaile. When the fpirit of man begins to faint, 
faith bids him be of good courage, for there is heipe in 
Heaven. The Divell may thruft fore at thee, but (hall not 
get the vidlory, for God is with thee. If the Lord pliangc 
thee iHto the Sea, he will goe downe with thee thither to 
keepe thee, that thou (Kalt not be drowned ; altl^ough 
Hell gates had fkut her mouth againft thee, yet there his 
Almighty hand will be with thee, and from thence 
his armc will deliver tbee. Feare not, for the Lord 
will be thy defence, and the fhadow of his wings thy 
covert ''-■■■ 

Fiftly, It ftirreth up courage and rcfolution to fct upon 
the pradifc of godlinelTe, and the duties of our particular 
calling with dilligcnce and cheerefulnefle, as the mcanes 
fandiified of God to procure freedome. For defpaire, 
dumpifhnf flffj foregoing the mcanes of grace, and neg* 
left of our calling, thefc are the things which Sathan la- 
bours to drive us unto : wc doe him the greateft plearfure 
that may be, when we yceld unto him therein. Exceflive 
feare brings that upon us, for which cfpecially wc de- 
firc to be freed, and ties up the powers of the foule, that 
it can make no rcfiftance. Cowardiie and fainting forro w 
put courage ir|to our Adverfary : valour, rcfolution, and 

confi- 



Efay.37.14. 



rfai 5.1. 



4. 

Mat. 1*. 1 8. 



Pfal.91 ijj. 



Efa. 50.7,8,9. 



29S 



Boxn to live h'j Fmh in time cfTempation, 



6. 



Confidence forceth Umto give backe, When we give 
place to doubtingc dejeacdnefle, inordinate tyrannicall 
feares, we put our fclvcs into the hands of our Eneinie : 
hut the vidlory is ourr, when by faith in the power and 
mercy of the Lord, we raife up our hearts in courage, and 
buckle cur fclves to the duties that lie beforeus, accor- 
ding to abilitie granted of God. When we are idle and 
folitary, Satban hath moft advantage to mokft and dif- 
quiet, as the thiefe hath to fteale, when the doorc (lands 
wide open : but conlcionable Employment fhuttcth the 
doore againft him, and takes away opportunity- This is 
the voice of faith, though Satban furioufiy afiaile thee, be 
notdifmaycd ; when iiis temptations be moft fierce, be 
thou moft diligent in the mcanes of grace, the pradlife of 
holincfle, the labours of an honeft calling ; pray earneft- 
lyjcall to remembrance the promifes of grace excrcifc thy 
felfe in workes of Mercy .Make this ufe of all his malitious 
aflauits, that thou be quickened to ftickc taftcr unto the 
word of promife, lift up thy heart to crave his aide with 
confidence, and take courage to labour more earneftly in 
the paths of rigliteoufnefle. For Sathan will then ceale to 
vexe with bis temptations, when that which he puts as a 
Humbling blocke, we make a Ipurre and incitement to 
more diligence in wel-doing. 

Sixtly, It fortifieththe foule againfl: all invafions : For I 
the perfwafions of feith are moft forcible, the ftrength of | 
faith invincible. Satan indeavours by how-ible,and fearefull 
in/edlions to drive the poore foule to defpaire t Faith 
heartneth him the more to believe, and kcepc clofe tinder 
the ihadow of the Lords wings. For the Divell is let 
loofe, tochafeusneererhim, thatwe mightftickef<ifter 
unto the Lord, as the child affrighted will cling unto the 
mother. Satan defires by carnall allurements and outward 
objects to draw him from God, which he inforceth witfe 
all fubtiltie: Faith oppofeth ft ronger perfwafions to wel- 
doing 5 it fetteth before him the terrours of death eternall 
ifhc revolt J the comforts of grace, andthe joyes of Hea- 
ven, 



when Sathan encounters the firvmts of Chrifi. . 299 



ven, if he conrinue conftant ; in camparifon wbercoFall 
carnall inticements be of nomoment. When the Divcll 
cannot prcvaile by flattcrics,he feekes by force & violence 
to overthrow the poorc fervants of Chrift.Faith buildeth 
it felfe upon Chrift the everlafting rockc, refifteth in bis 
name,and getteth the vidory. The Beh'ever is too weake 
ofhimfelfs to witbftand thelcaft affaultjbuc relying upon 
the Lord, through his power he is made viflorious in the 
greatcft. 

Seventhly, Faith is vigilant and watchfull at all times, 
in all places, upon all occafions, againft all fins, with all de- 
grees thereof, fpecially againft fins of conftitution,calIing, 
the timc,company5Corrupt educationjthc firR rife of finne- 
delighting motions, and fins of (olitarineffc, that it be not 
circumvented by the wiles of Sathan. Faith may flumber 
and take a nap for a little lcafon,when it is ill at eafe : but 
the propertie of faith,when lively and in good plight,i$ to 
kcepe waking. , For nothing is more wifely feareftiU then 
faitb,nor more cautelous and circumfpedlthen holy feare: 
Nothing more caref^uU and fufpitious then faith, more 
waking and induftrious then holy care and fufpition r 
Nothing more covetous and contagious then faith, more 
watchfull then covetoufneffe and courage. Faith makes 
a vaiin /ealous of hinifelfe, left hes take cold, catch 
aknocke, or be deceived; cautelous and circumfpe(5ti 
that the Divell get not advantage,^ fet not upon him 
at unawares ; defirous to keepe ftanding, grow in 
grace, live in peace with God ; and valiant in the Name 
of God to take armes in the caufe and quarrell of 
God againft principalities, powers, and fpirituall wic- 
kcdneflcs. Feare, care, fufpition, covetoufneiTej cou- 
rage, any one of thefe is fufficient to keepe waking 
in earthly things : and when all ot them joyntly con- 
curre, fliali they not have this effed m fpirituall ? Sathan 
is vigilant to tempt, as he can elpie his opportunity : and 
faith is watcWull to avoid the fnare, or withftandthe 
aflaiilt. 

^^'g^tly, 



300 



Bovp to live hy Faith in timeofTempation^ 



Revl».ia. 



Luk.4.13. 



1 Cor.io»i3. 



zCor.iz.8. 



Eightly, In the moft forcible tcmpefts which the ene- 
my raifeth againftuj, when to prelcnt fcnfc and feeling 
all fight and hope of the grace and goodnefleofGodin { 
Jefus Chrift is loft, faith tels the heart, that a calme is at ' 
hand. When the ftrength of the enemy is wafted, and his j 
provifion decayed, that he h ^th no hope to contiRue the ; 
ficge long, he will make one ortwofutious aflaultsa- 
gainft the place before his departure, intending to winnc ' 
the horfe or lofe the fpurres, as the proverbe goeth-: fo it ' 
is with Sathan, his rage is grcateft, when his time h fhor- 
tcft. Even as the darkneffe is greatcft a little before day : 
fo the grand pieces which the Divell keepcs in ftore,mitiU ; 
the cafe be dcfperate, be with the claps they give, and 
miftsihcy fend forth, mcfiengers of his retiring, andonr ; 
deliverance which is before the doore. Thelafttemptati- ! 
on, wherewith Sathan fetupon Chrift, was the moft furi- i 
ous, and when he could not prevaile thereby, he departed j 
from him for a feafon. The Lord knowes well the malice j 
of Sathan, and the weakneffe of his children : his f urie to ; 
dcvoure, and their frailty to ftand long in the encounter : 
therefore he will not fuffcr that roaring Lion above mea- 
I fure to difcharge upon them. This faith affures of,and per- 
fwades quietly to waite for. ..^'■;'; ''" 

Ninthly, If Sathan renew bis affaults, faith ftands pre- { 
pared through the power of God to make refiftancea- 
frefh ? When ?aul was buffeted by themeffenger of Sa- 
than,he befought the Lord often in that thing. Thus when 
we are led into darkneffe without light, we leaneupon 
God, and cry unto him for falvation. If a child have his 
Father by the hand, though he be in the darke, or other- ; 
wife fee, what might hurt him, approach, and make often 
at him, yet he is not afraid : and fo hx. is with us, whileft 
hy the eye of faith, we fee that invifibte one, at our right ; 
hand to fupport and fave us. Neither are we ftared at j 
this, that Sathan doth fhift bis temptations, andreturnc i 
againe afcr he had left us for a feafon : But-having expe- 
rience of Gods gratious dealing and tender compaffion, 

wc 



wkn Sat ban encounters the jkrv ants ofchrifl, 

wc flie unto him, and (hrowd our fclves under the {hade 
of th-: Almighty. If we have in fome fits found eafe by 
this or that mcanes, wc know ifwe come into hke cafe 
how to helpc our felves ; it is we fay, but doing fuch a 
thing, or taking fuch a matter : thus having once found, 
in dirtrcfTc and tcmptation,ftrength and deliverance by rc- 
courfc to our God in Chrift, we know what to doe when 
fuch like ftatc returneth on us. Sathan will not ccafe to af- 
failc though he be overcome j nor the believer faint 
though he be fet upon againe and againe ; but having once 
returned with vidory through the power of God, 
he will abide in the fecret place of the moft High for 
ever. 

Tenthly, The faithfull arc the Lords veflels, which he 
ufcth to fcourc by tcmptationf . True it is, that in the 
time of triall, the graces of the Spirit doe not fo much 
appcare to the notice of the believing heart : but by the 
over-ruling providence of God, they ferve for the in- 
creafe of grace, as the truth teachctb, faith belicvcth 
and experience can teftifie. Thus faith miniftreth comfort 
in the moft bitter agonies, if it be rightly ufcd, andftir- 
red up. 

But what if the child of God be brought fo lowjthat he 
can difcerne no fparke of faithjuo fruit orgrace,no marke 
of Gods love in himfclfe ? It is not to be doubtedj bat the 
fcrvants of Chrift through their weaknc3,are oft brought 
by extremity of temptation into wofull defolation,which 
yet the Lord doth wifely order for the glory of his Name, 
and the good of his dejeded fcrvants. And as in other 
thingSjfo in this, that they cannot difcerne any fruit of the 
Spirit, wherewith through the mercy of ^od, they are 
comfortably replcnifhed. For the bluftermg Tempefts 
which the enemy raifcth againft them, caufe fuch diftur- 
bancc in the foule, and fill the heart with fuch confufion, 
feare and terrour, that for the prefent they are altogether 
unable to judge of their owne cftate. For when the Mind 
ii over-clouded with the mifts of Temptation, as the eye 

with 



301 



10. 

W)y thegddly 
fometimes tvant 
the fight of 
Godi grace t. 



302 



The Remedy 
oj thii> 
I. 



How to live hj Fahhin time of Tcmftation, 



with the Tiftig of duG: ; and the heart toCTcd too and fro 
with unquietnesj as the waves of the Sea when the winds 
are boiflerousjconfcier.ce by recoiling upon the foule can- 
not conceive, or give right notice ok its trac ftatc and tem- 
per. Troubled water will not give backe the icfiedion of 
the countenance : nor an atBidled Spirit the true dilpollti- 
on of the inner man. When the poorc Chriftian makes 
fearch into himfclfe^the temptation firft: purs forth it feife, 
wherewith the heart is daunted^ and thereupon conclu- 
deth, that no grace doth lodge or abide in him, becauf c at 
firft fight it doth not appeare. Vnto thcfe may be added, 
thatgocd men arc fometimes petrifhl/ difpofed., to call 
I away all they have as noihing,becaufe they have not what 
I they defire,or imagine others to enjoy :herein refembling 
little children^who for wsnt of foms fmall trifle that they 
defire, or fome of their fellowes have, throw away many 
things m.uch more pretious. 

But not to inquire further into the caufes of this mifta- 
king, the remedy is; 

Firft, he muftknow, that as in Hckc perfons we fee it 
£0mmeth to pafle, they thinks there is noliope of life, 
when the Phifician and ftanders by fee ccrtaine and un- 
doubted tokens of health : So it is oftentimes in thele fpi- 
rituall fickneffes. 

Secondly, It is the wifdome of a Chriftian in this cafe 
to obferve the marke that Satan drives at.which is to hide 
from his fi^t the graces of the Spirit that he might bring 
him to difpaire. This being the Divels aime, he muft 
ftirre up himfelfe to believe, and rowle his iculeupon 
Cbrift for falvation. For vvhen he can fee no grace in his 
foule, he cannot but fee himfelfe to be mifcrable, andfo 
called to come unto Chrift the fountaine of living waters, 
that by him he might be repleniftied, in him he might 
finde refrefliing. Againe, taking courage to believe, he 
difappoints Sathar, who intendeth not fo much to draw 
hun into fecurity, as to force him to caft away all hope of 
mercy. 

Oh, 



vphenSathan encounnrsthefervants ofchrilh \ 305 



Oh, but a Chriftian is to examine and try himfelfe, 
whether he be inrichcd with the graces of the Spirit, 
or no? True it is, that the examination of our hearts 
is a n*"ceflary duty, but to be done in due order, lo as we 
be ftirred unto, not driven from the praiflifc of other du- 
ties no leflc needfull : But when the foule is diHempered 
with the afiaults of Sathanjand unable to judge of its own 
ftate, iris unlcafonablc to make fearch into our hcartSjSnd 
prepolleroiis to give place to doubtings, becaafc we can- 
not find what we defire.Wehave acommandement to bc- 
h'cve, as well a? to prove our felves j both which muO: be 
coHpled together, otherwife neither can be done as they 
ought : and it is a plainccafe, that he who findes himfelf-e 
to be poore and naked, is called to com: unto Chriflj that 
he might receive of his fulnede, be inriched with his 
plenty. If thou canft not find in thy fclfe what thou fee- 
iccfl: after, come unto Jcfus Chrift,and believe in him that 
thou mayeft receive wbatthoirfeekefl:, and is to be found 
in him. 

Thirdly, The diftreffed Cj'dc muft learne,that the grace 
of God worketh not alwaics alike in his children. W hen 
we waike in the fields in winter, we fee not only no good 
fru't, but not fo much as a leafs on the trees, in Ibrne aifo 
the very trunke or ftocke apptareth to be dead : yet is the 
fap hidden in the root, which in due time will fbew that 
the tree was never dead. When fire is raked up, there ap- 
pcareth oftentinies a fort of cold dead afhes, when there 
are underneath certaine fparkes, of which you may after- 
ward make a fire. Yea, many times ihc fruits of grace 
may fhinc in the convcrfation to the eyes of other?, when 
the power and ftirrings of grace inwardly, being hindred 
with temptations, cannot be felt. 
j Fourthly, The long and manifold temptations of Sa- 
! than,wherewith he fcekes to throw Chriftians head-long 
into defpaire, is to them a teftimony of the inhabitation 
of the Spirit in their hearts. For the power ard ftrcngth 
whereby thofe alTaults are repelled, is it not of God } the 

U'l . 



3^4 

a6. 



i^^n? to live hy Faith in time of Temp ation. 



Mcanesto ftirre 
upQUT felvesto^ 
live by faith in 
timeofdreadfuU 
temptation. 
I. 



Ezra.9,5. 



unclcanc fpirit might cafily enter into the houfc with fe- 
ven other fpirits worfe then bimfelfe, and dwell there, if 
he found it fwept and garnifhed, that is.empty and dcdl- 
tute of gr^ce. The ftrong man armed m'ght well breaks 
into the houfe, if a ftronger then he did not keepe poflef- 
fion. As the children of God are conquerours over many 
tcmptationsjfo one onely tensptatior(and that of no long 
continuance ) is able to (inkc the flouteft among the Re- 
probates, who are mccre drofife and ref ufe, into the bot- 
tomeleflepitofHell. The ftrong aflaults, whereby the 
Divell labourcth the over-throw of the poore fervant of 
God, is to him an argument of Hrength received, or that 
God will {Irengthen him. For if he looke unto God in the 
tentation, he calletb not fortb bis fervants to the conflid?:, 
untill they be furnifhed, nor will he let Sathan loofe untill 
he have inabled them to make refiftance. He will not lay 
waight upon greenc Timber, nor crufh the tender young- 
ling with burdens unfupportable : whom God doth im- 
ploy in the warre, either he hath, or will make them able 
for his fervice. If he have an eye unto Sathans malice, why 
doth he mufter all his forces to bcfieg?, if there be no 
ftrengtb to withftand ? The long contiued furious Un- 1 
tations of Sathan do make proofe, that the heart is well 1 
fortified againft him. I 

The way and meanei to (litre up faith in thefe per- j 
plexities and times of grievous remptations,is : j 

Fir{}, the diftrefled ChriQian mufl: unfainedly hum- \ 
ble his foule for former ignorance, vanity of Minde, ' 
dilcfteeme of mercy, timeroufnefle, difcontent,unbeliefe, 
mifinterpriting the Lords doings, folitary mufings on 
the temptations of Satban/clfe-confidence, and fuch other 
finnes which may feemc to fet open the foule to the ^erce 
and dreadfiill aflaults of Sathan: and in that acknowledge'* 
ment and humiliation be mufl: unfold hisprefentmifery. 
before the Lord. O my God, I am afliamed and con- 
founded, and blufli to lift up my face to thee, my God : 
for my fins arc multiplied exceedingly, and mine iniqui- 
ties 



ivhen Sathdn encounters the fer'v^nPs ef Chrifi, 

tics arc rifcn up againft me. I was conceived in finnc, I 

have lived in vanity ; my thoughts arc loofc, mine aftcdi- 
ons boifterous. I have difeftccmcd mercy, regarded lying 
vanities ; ^iven way to doubtfull reafonings, pettiflily ta- 
ken on when my carnall dcfircs have bccnc ctoflcd; di^ 
ftrufledthypromifesjdifputed with tbccof thy /udgc- 
mentsj giveaway to thoughts of unbeliefc, harboured 
unquictneffe and difcontcnt : and fo expofed my foale to 
the moft violent, horrible, and ficric tentations and af- 
faults of Sathan. My foulc,which fliould be (eafoned with 
fwccte meditation on thy goodneffe, mercie, and grace 
manifefted in Jefus Chrift, delighted in the promifes of 
mercicand ra\^i{hed with the joyes of Hcaven,i8 continu- 
ally peftered and affailed with the blackc and belli (h 
thoughts of Atheifine, defpaire, blafphcmie^ difcontent j 
and extrcamely tortured with foule-vexing Ifearcs. O my 
God, looke mercifully upon the mifcry of a poorc di- 
ftreffedfinner. lam brought into great darkhefife, and 
can fee no light. There is no four.dnefle in my fiefli,: 
nor reft in my bones, nor quiet in my Toulc. My heart 
trcmblcth,myftrengthfailethme, my life is fpent with 
griefc, my fpirit within me is overwhelmed: and prevai- 
ling feares fo tirannize over me, that I cannot fpeake. 
My Mindc is full of diforder and confiifion, my heart of 
terrour : my foule refufcth comfort. In the day 1 am 
terrified with thoughts , in the night affrighted with 
drcames. I am fore wounded and broken, I goe mourning 
and dcfolate all the day: my moifture is like the drought 
of fummer, and in this deepc difcomfort the Tempter 
cz2iici\iXVOttoi\i^%z^i1hsX.thereis no heifc for me in mj 
God, 

Secondly, he muft complaine of the malice of the De- 
I vill ; and inftantly intrcatc the Lord to pardon finne , 
bridle, reftrainc, and tread Sathan uuiler ioote. Whiles 
I declare mine iniquitie,andamforriefor my finne, the 
Devill ragcth with incredible furie feeking to dcvoure 
and fwallow mc up. Hefightcth againft mc continually : 
X night 



505 



Pfalji.-^ 
Pfal. 5. 2. 



«. 



3o5 



Hpw^ tmlku^PjJ^aith mtmeofTemftatim, 



Pfa.l^4i 



VCa.i 1.1.6, 



R9m.i.6»zo. 



pra.3j.17. ; 
Pfa 22.2 1^22, 
Pfa,ji,io, 



night andday is my loule vexed with temptations to be 
abhorred. Iflfay,! will remember the mercies of the 
Lord, and thinkc upon his name | I will unloadc mv 
fou'e mto thcbofome of my heavenly Father , and waite 
«pon his grace: then he fuggefteth impious thoughts and 
horrible Wafphemies to the great annoyance, mifera- 
blediftraaion, aftonifhment and vcxatibn ot my poore 
foulc. Remember me,0 my God,according to the multi- 
tude of thy tender companions, and blot mine iniquities 
out of thy remembrance for thy Names hkc. There 
u mercy with thee covering finne : pardon the trefpaflfes 
of thy poore fervant, and impute not unto me thofc hel- 
lifli thoughts fiiggcfted by Sathan, which through thy 
grace I deteftunfainedly, under which I defire to be fin. 
ccrely humbled, and from which I heartily bcegc to bee 
delivered. Returne,0 Lord, caufe the light ofthy coun- 
tenance to fliine upon mee; rcfrcfli my parched foulc 
with the fence ofthy mercy; difpell the mifts of ten- 
tation, rebuke Sathan, and reftraine his malice. Thou 
artthe God of peace> tread Sathan,! befeech thee, under 
my feete fliortly, that with a quiet and cheerefull Spirit 
Imayfingofthypraife, and fervc thee in holincfle and 
righteoufiies all the dayes of my life. Thou art my ftreneth 
and portion, my rocke and tower of defence, unto thee 
doe. I flic for fuccour, Oh, plead my caufe, againft the enc- 
my of my fou1e and thy glory. I am purpofed through 
thy grace to fticke and cleave faftuntothy mercy, never 
toafientuntoorapprove his' horrible fu^gcftions: Oh 
keepemethatthe evill one may never touch me. 'Lord 
how long, wilt thou looks onl rtfcfie my foule from the 
ficrie aflaults of that wicked one; my darling from the 
Lyon. I am fore troubled, I am bowed downe greatly, 
I walkc in heavinefle al! the day long : My heart pantetb^ 
my foulc is exceedingly difquieted with tentations. This 
thoHMfl feene (O Lord) l^eepe not filence: O Lord ke 
mfarrefrommee. Stirrey thy f/lfr^ and awake to my 
jW^^?w«f,curbe and chainc Up Sathan, that he may mo- 
— left 



rvben Sat ban encounters the feri>ants of Chrifi, 

left no longer, and ftrengthentby poorc fcrVarit , that 
through thy mighc, I may conquer and triumph over him. 
AridmyfoHieJhalirej&yce in the Lord, it JhM rejoj^e. in his 
falv^tioH, ARmy bones Jhaff fky, Lord, who ii like unto 
thee^rohich deiiverefi the foore from him that u too firong 
for him, yea the pore and needie,from him that Jpojleth 
him. 

Thirdly, he muft ceafe to mufc on the tentations of 
Satban, and ftirre up himfelfe , couragioufly, valiantly to 
truft in the mercies of the Lord, and relic upon his grace. 
tvhy art thou cafi dovcne, O my fettle ? and -why art thoH 
dif^uktedrnthinmee ? why doft thou harbour perplex- 
ing doubtfull thoughts, and in much penGvenefle toffe 
to and fro the tentations of Satban ? This mufing kindles 
tbeiire: the more thou tbinkeft upon the- tentation, and 
art difquietcd with doubtings, the greater liberty bath 
the Devill to tempt, the leffe able arc thou to with-ftand 
his malice. If thou be de/eded^ he will be infolent : if 
thou be affrighted, he will be the more furious. Truft 
therefore in the Lord , and waite upon his grace : for he 
hath feene thine adverfity, he will heare thy prayers ; the 
finnes cleaving to the tentations,which thou fo muchfea- 
rcft, are pardoned and forgiven unto thee. Evill thoughts 
conceived with ddight, pleafur^, and purpofc, are moft 
difpleafing unto God, dangerous unto the foule • but c- 
ven hclli{h tentations, which never found confent or ap- 
probation, under which thou art humbled, from which 
thou carneftly craveft to be delivered, doubt not, but 
upon thine unfained fuite, they are freely remitted and 
done away. Be ftrong, and of good courage, feare not, 
nor be difmaied : for the Lord will be thy defence, and 
under the fhadow of his wings thou flialt be fafe. Satban ^ 
cannot tempt longer then God fhall give him leave : and ; 
he will never fuffer thee to be tempted above meafurc, 
but will give a good iffue unto the tentation. Thou art 
called to fight under the banner of Chrift Jefos and in 
the name of the Lord thou flialt be inablcd to doe va- 
. X 2 liantly 



307 



Pfal.jj.j, 10, 



5- 



PfaI.J9.3. 



I Cor 10.15. 



3o8 



I Got. IX.9* 



2 Cor.x.^. 



Epfeef.5.10. 



IPfal.ji.«4. 
Pfil. 34.Z1. 
4. 



Htf^jv «^ //-vc i6|y Faith m tmtefTemfmio»y 

liantly an4ovcr€ome. If Sathan continue his aflaults,^ tf^"* 
ffTAtg u^uffcietttfer theff, l£thy ftrcngthhc clcane gonc> 
Gods power ftiall be magnified the more in thee ; and be 
hath brought thee low, that thou maKl not truft in thy 
felf c, but in the living Lord , and that the whole praifc 
of the vi(5tory might be afcribed unto him. If thy 
ftrcHgthdidrcmaine,it was not to be leaned unto; and 
now it i&dccayed and gotic, there is no caufe ot fcare : tor 
the Lord will be chy ftay. In the moft difficult affaults 
and tedious encounters we are exhorted , to be firong in 
the Lord y and m the power of hi^ might. Be of good cou- 
rage, and God wiilgrant thee an cafie, a joyful vi(ftory. 
Sachans drift in tempting is to turmoile, dif-heartcn, per- 
plex with fearcs, and drive ir to dcfpaire : and if thou 
take heart and courage to reft quietly upon Gods grace, 
and flie unto his Name, thou £halt put him to flight, thou 
haft already got the day. Waitc but a while, and thefe 
darke mifts, and terrible florraes fhaU be difperfed. By 
thefe temptations the Lord hath taught thee to fee thy 
wcaknefTe, and the malice of Sathan; to denie thine ownc 
wifdome, and prize his favour ; lightly to cftceme all 
things here below, and highly to value mercy reaching 
to the pardon of fmne, and heavenly communion and fel- 
lowfhip with God : And if this bitter potion hath 
wrought fo kindly for thy fpirituail good, why fhouldft 
thoubedifmaycd? Truft in the Lord, be of good cou- 
rage, and he (hall ftrengthen thee. The Lord redeemeth the 
fonle ofhisfervants^ and none of them that trnfi in him Jhall 
be de folate, 
I Fourthly, He muft excrcife himfelfe in wel-doing,har- 
bour holy and heavenly meditations, nourifh the moti- 
ons 6f Gods Spirit, be zealous and diligent in Prayer, 
reading, and hearing the Word of God, chearefull and 
induftriousrnrheworkes ofhishoneft calUng. For idle- 
neffe, and dejeded lumpiflinefre, and exceffive feare pre- 
pare for all temptations : but ferious and good imploy- 
mcnt is a fpeciall meanes tO;prevent or divert them. In 

this 



when Sathan encounters the fer'vants ef Chriji, 



this cafe, conftant proceeding in a courfc of godlincffc, 
and continuall excrcife of Minde and Body, in that which 
is good, and pleafing in the fight of God,doth much more 
ava lie then diredoppofition. Ihavetoo long vexed and 
turmoiled my felfc with the temptations of Sathan 5 bro- 
ken off the exercife of godlincffe, dired:ly to anfwer and 
oppofethem, ycelded to thoughts of unbeliefe; given 
way todifcouragements, as if it had beenc in vaine to 
pray, omitted the duty upon conceit of unfitnefTe, dul- 
neffc, unworthinefle ; accounted the duties of my calling 
tedious and burthenfome; fet open my heart to intangling 
fcruples and diftrading feares, queftioning the love of 
God towards me upon every falfe luggcftion,and conclu- 
ding oft through unbeliefe, that God had /hut up his lo- 
ving kindnefle for ever in dilpleafure. So fooliih have I 
bcene, and ignorant : even in this point a bcaft. Pardon, 
O Lord, the infidelity, doubting, de/edlednefle, and car- 
nallcxceflive feares of thy poore IcrvantjdchVcr my foule 
from the fnares of Sathan, acquaint me with his Methods 
in tempting, and how I may prevent Kim, and ftrengthen 
me in the combate, that I never faint, nor breakc ©fF the 
courfe of godlinefle through unbeliefe. I am purpofed 
through thy grace, to caft my foule upon thy tender mer- 
cies, to feeke thy face continually, to waite upon thee in 
thine ordinances,and to exercife my felfe in the workes of 
Piety, Mercy, and an honeft calling. If Sathan tempt to 
diftruft,raife feares, feeke to difcourage my fcule,or breake 
off my prayers bv his hellifh fuggeftions ; I will ftrive to 
maintaine my faith, lay fafter hold upon the promifes of 
mercy, ftop mine eares againft fcruples and doublings j 
take greater courage to draw nigh unto God, believe the 
acceptance of my willing though wcake fervicc ; and by 
how much the Divell {hall feeke to oppofe or hinder my 
comfort, courage, or conftancy, fo much the more will 
. I ftirreup my felfe to goc forward and continue therein. 
ThcLord willheareafighor groane, bottle up a teare, 
and gratioufiy accept poore & meane lervice from a fickc 
^ X 3 childc. 



3 op 



310 



Pral.17. 15. 



Pfal.38.1l. 



Pfal. 



27.9. 



Vetfe 1 1 . 



Pfal. 17. 5. 



l;'fa!.4^.1i,ia 



Bevp to live bj Faith in time of Temptation, ^c. 

childe. I perceive the maine fcope of Sathan^in fuggefting 
heliifli temptations, is to drive me into dcfpairc, dilquiet 
the foule with fearcs, caft mc into dccpe, unprofitable 
fbrrow, and difcourage in every holy duty, that I might 
altogether negledt it, or with great heartlefneffe go about 
it,as if it were unprofitablejfhould never be accepted. And 
IfhallthenpreventSathan, andputhimro flight, when I 
takeoccafion by bis temptations to ft eke cioilr unto the 
wordof promife, ftirre up my felfe zealoufly to fecke the 
favour oFGod ; turne my thoughts from ditputing about 
his fuggeflions, pray that I maybe fitted to pray, waite 
upon God for help e,begge the pardon of daily infirmi- 
ties, and take heart and refolution to commit my foulc un- 
to him in wel-doing,ftriving daily to reforme what is a- 
miffc, and grow in grace ; but not queftioning acceptance 
becaufe of my infirmities, prefent dulncfle, and ciftemper 
of- foule, being wafted and fpent, whiles I ftruggled with 
the temptations of the Divell. Arife,OLord, dilappoint 
Sathan,caft him downe.-delivcr my foule from the wicked 
one : Be thou my Urcngth in trouble; enclitic thine earc 
unto my prayer, and fave me, for I fiie unto thee for fuc- 
cour. I am ready t:o halt, and my farrow is continually 
before me. Ferfake mee not^O Lord, O mj God^ bte not 
farre from me» Hide not thy face farre from mee , put j 
not thy fervant avpaj in anaer : thoH hafl- beene my helpe j 
leave me not, neither for fake we^ O god of my fahation. 
Teach me thy way , O Lord, andlea^ me in a p/aine path, 
becaufe of mine enemies. Shew me the path oflifej guide 
me in the wayes of peace, give thy ftrcngth unto thy 
fervant, and fave me for thy mercy fake. Hold up 
^my goings in thy path?, that -I bee not turned afide 
by the malice or Heights of Sathsn." I am fully refol- 
ved to depend upon thy grace, and keepe thy Com- 
mandements. Lord have mercy upon me, raife me upland 
ftrengthen me unto the end. By this I know that thoufavou- 
refi me, becaufe mine enemy doth not triumph over »2f . Vphold 
me m mine integrity.and fet me before thy f^e for ever. 

. ._And 



BoTV to live by faith in ti?Kes of i roubles, ^c, 

Andl crc, if the diftreffed Chriftian have wafted his 
fpirits with violent and continuall forrow, he muft be 
admoniflied not to thinkc, that prefently he /hould reco- 
ver former livelineiTe and ability. Sathan will not ccafe 
to fuggcft , that this courfe he hath now fct upon is 
vaine and fruitlefle, becaufe he finds more dulneflc and 
loggifhncfle, then formerly. But he muft tell himfelfc, 
that naturall powers, once weakened, are not foone re- 
paired ; and in fuch cafe, when ftirrings be leffc, the 
worke of grace may be more found then heretofore. 
Livclineffe and adiveneffe is greateft in youth, but the 
truth of grace greater in age. Therefore he muft not 
fcrupuloufly queftion his ftatt, becaufe he feeles himfelfe 
more feeble, and leffe adive then in former times. 



311 



CHAP. VII. 



Uovfi to live by faith in the times of trouble and ad" 

V€rfity,fpeciaHy when live be exercifed 

ypith WAny und long af- 

fusions 

AFflidlions are not more ordinary, then btirdenfomc 
and heavy to be borne. C^fany are the troubles of 
the righteow, and manifold the infirmities of the righte- 
ous in their troubles. Sometimes they take carnall coun- 
fcll; fometimes they fret and murmur; fomctimes they 
faintanddefpaireforafit. "David hid in his heart, Ij^aH^ 
now per ij^ one day by the hand of Sml: there ii nothing better 

\ for mey then that ijhou/djpeedi/y efcape into the land of the 
Philiftines. I f aid in my hafie, I am em off from before 
thineeyes. I remembredGodandwas troubled', J cdmplai' 
ned^ and my fpirit was over-whe/tned. IVill the Lord cafi 
^jf/"*" ^'^^^ ? and will hee be favourable no msre ? Is his mer- 
cy cieane gone for ever : doth his promife faile for evermore ? \ 

/ _^. X4 which\ 



Pfal.54.if. 



iSam.z;.!, 



pral.ji.zj. 

Pfal.77.5. 
Vcrfe 7 . 
Vcrfcf. 



med to he hol- 
pen aiainjl dif- 
couraTernents 

in aMlaion. 



God corre5teth 
in great wij- 
dome 



Bor^ to live bj Faith mtime of Jdveyjlty, 



Menfure. 
Efay 17.7,8. 



30. li. 



}cr. 10.14,. 

Far a moment. 
i>fal.30.f. 

Pfal.ioj. 9. 
Ier.5. I a. 
Pfal.iS5.j. 
Efay.io 15. 

Efay ^4 7,9, 



i^ 



Which frailty of the Saints dothkfTon us, what necde we 
havctobcarcngthencdagainft alt dilcouragcment« and 
hinderances which in affiiaions we fliall tnecte witball, 
that wc neither grow weary , nor be rurncd afide in onr 
Chriftian courfc.And the Lord,our mod merciful! and lo- 
ving Father, knowing it to be moft neceilary, hath for the 
conrifort and encouragement of his children plentifully 
fignified, that he will correcfl them in wifdome, love 
and tender compaflion,to trie, purge, and refine them | 
and gratioufiy promifedto aide, comfort, and dired, and 
in fittcft time to deliver them out oi adverfities. We hai>e 
had Fathers ofotirpjhy rvho ccrreBed m, and we gave them 
reverence: Jh4llii9emt much rather k in fafymon unto 
the Father offpirits, and live ? For they verily for a few 
dajes ch^ftenedus after their owne pleafme, km he fer our 
profit , tk^t we might he partakers of his holme jfe. Hath he 
ffftittenhtm^Odhe fmotethofe thatfmoteh.m ? Or ts heflaine 
According to thefiaughter of them that areflaine by him ? In 
meajHrevfhenitJhootethforth^ihoH wilt debate with it: he 
fiayethhisroughwindeinthedayofthe EaH m^de. Feare 
thoHnot, O ]acob,myfervant , faith the Lord for I am 
''withthee,forIwillmak^af(ill end of all Nations whither 
I have driven thee, but ImUnot make af^ltendofthee, hut 
correUtheeinmeafure^yetvDilllnot have thee wholly un- 
pmijhed. This is that which the Prophet fo earneftly 
begged of God, O Lord correB me, but with iud^mcnt, 
not in thine anger, lefi thoH bring me to nothing. He correa:s 
but for a while -.For his anger endfirnh but a moment, in hU 
favour u life : weeping may endnrefor a night, but toy com- 
methm the morning. He will not alwajes chide neither will 
heekeepehts anger for ever. The rod of the wicked fhatt not 
reB upon the ht of the righteous : lefi the righteous put jorth 
thetr hands unto intqaity. For yet a -very little while, and 
the tndfgnation (hall ceafe, and mine arger in their de- 
firuUion, For a fmaU moment have^ I forfaken thee', but 
wtth great mercies Will I gather thee. In a little wrath I 
ht(imjfaeefromthee,for a moment: but with ever lafting 

k,indne^e 



Efay J 7. 1 6. 
Micb. 7.18. 



* in love and 
pro. ? . I z. 
Heb.12 f,<S. 

t^ Tendemejfe. 
Efay 65,9. 
Pfal 103., 3. 



Vcrfe 14. 
tiorcaii.8j,9. 



tvle^ we be exercifed xvith mart) & Long afft ch ms, 3 1 ^ 

kindtifffewifl I have mercy on thte ^ faith the Lord ^ thy 
Redeemer, For I wilt not contend for ever , neither rtill 
I he alwayes wroth ;fer the ^ rit Jheuld fatte before me , 
and the fmlcs which i have made. Who is a ^od likf nn~ 
1 9 thee ^ that fardoyitth initjuityy and pajfeth hy the tranf- 
qrcffton of the nmnant of his heritage ? He retaineth not 
hii aftgerfor everybecatifehedelighteth in mercy, ^ fVhom 
the Lord /oveth, kee correEleth^ even as a Father the Sonne, 
in whom he de light eth. As many m I love ^ I rebuke and 
chafiep. ^ In all their a^iEiion he was ajJiiBed, and the An- 
gekofhisfrefencefAvedthem \ in his love and in his fitie 
l^e redeemed them, and he bare thew^ and carried them 
alt^thedajej of old. Like as a Father fitieth his children ifo 
the Ldfdpitieth them that feare him. For hee knoweih onr 
frame: keerememhreththatyve are dnfl. How (hall I give 
M?<? «/? Ephraim ? H^wfhalll deliver thee Ifradl ? How 
fhatl I tnnke thee as Admah •'' Howfhall Ifet thee as Zebo- 
im ? iJ^me heart is turned roiihin me^ my repeutings are 
kindled together. I will not execute the fercene^e of mine an- 
ger^ I win not returne to dtflroy'E^h[Z\m,for I am ^od and 
not LMan^the holy one in the midfi- of thee. <= Thou fhatt re^ 
member all the way ywhich the Lord thy God led thee thefe 
f orty y ear es in the wilder n(^e ito humble thee, and to prove 
the/- J to know what was in thin* heart. For thou Q Gody hafi 
proved tes ; thou hafi tried Pts as filver is tried. And I wtH 
turne my hand upon thee f and purely pur ^e awry thy drojje,] 
and take away all thy tinne, ^y this therefore fhaS the tni- 
qttity of ]2lco\> be purged, and this is all the fruit , to take 
away his finne. And feme of them of under flan ding fhall 
faflyto trie them andtopurge^andtomakethem white. And 
I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine 
them as filver is refined and will try them as gold is tryedi 
ani they jhall call on my H^me, ani I will heare them. Now 
for afcafonf^ifneedc he )ye ar? in hat-vtrrfeffe through manifold 
t temptations ; Thsit the triaH of your faith, beina much more 
pretioui then gold that per •Jhethytheugh it be tried with fre, 
might be found »nto praife,andhonenr ^Cfr glory ^At the appea- 
' ring \ 



* To prove 
Dcut.8.v. 

Pia.\,66.to. 
Purge 
Efay i.2^.& 



Reflns 

Din II 3 5. & 
12. 10. 
Zicli 13.9. 

I Pet 1,5,'.' 



3H 



1 Pet. 4. 12. 

18. 
Hor.1.63 7. 

Job.j6. 10,16. 

'Conjirme grace 
Deut. 8.16, 
James 1. 1,5 . 



Jon. if.3. 

I Cor.il.gs. 

2Cci-.4. 17. 

*Hemll deli- 
ver them 
Job 5:. 17, 18. 
fiwf 0/ trouble. 

PraI.94i2,iS. 



James 1. 1 a. 

f J>e/» in trouble. 
pfal.56. 8. 
PIal.31.7. 

praI.33.r8jX5. 



New t@ live bj Faith in time ofi^dnjerjitie, 



ring oflefm Cbrifi, Thinke it mtjlrange concerning the fie- 
rytr tally which is to try ym^ m though [ome ftrange thing 
happened nntoy Off ^ H^ppeneth thff tares of men^ andfealeth 
their infirHBion^That he may withdraw man from hu pur-, 
p^fcy and hide pri^.e from man. He keepeth backe his fottle 
from the fit , and his life from perijhing by the fveord. He 
openeth alfo their eare to kifcipline^mdcommanJleth that they 
rettirnefrom iniejn'ny. » Who ted thee through that great 
and terrible mlderne^e^^c^that he might prove thee, to doe 
thee goodat thy latter end. OPfy brethren, count it all joy 
wheny^e fall into divers temptations^ knowi>9g thiSy that the 
trying of your faith wprketh patience. We glory in tribn/atir 
<%jf a/fo, knowing that tribulation voorf^jhpatienei^ and pa- 
tience experience j and experience hope '^andhcpe ma^ij not 
afhamed. Every branch that beareth fruity he purgeth it, 
that it may bringforth more fruit, ^ When voe are \udgec\ 
ivearechafl^nedofthe Lord.tbatwe Jheuld not be.condem- 
ftedwith the world. For-, our lifht ajfliSiion ^^^hich is 
but for a moment y '^orkethfo^'^i^^ afarre more exceeding and 
eternall waight of glory, ''^ 'Wehold^ happy is the man rpkom 
GodcorreEieth : therefore dejpife not thou thfi chafiening "Wf ' 
the Almighty, For hee maketh fere, and hindeth up : hee" 
tvoundethy and bis hand maketh "whole. He fhall deliver 
thee infix troublesyyea^, in feven there fhall no eviU touch 
thee, Bleffedis the man whom thou chafieneth, O Lord ; and 
teachefi out of thy Law.That thou may efi give him reft from 
the dayes ofaiverjity : untill the pit be digged for the wickei, 
Blejfed is the man that endureth temptation : for when he is 
tried, he fhall receive the crewne of life, -which the Lord hath 
prornifedto them that love him.^ Thou tellefi my wandrings^ 
put thou my tearesin thy bottle : are they not in thy booke ?■ 
Iwillbeglad^ andrejoyce in thy mercy :for thou ha(i confide- 
red my trouble ; thou hafi knowne myfoule in adverfiUes, 'Be- 
hold, the eye of the Lord is upon them that feare him : Upon 
them that hope in his mercy : To deliver their fcule from 
deaths and to k^epe them alive in famine. The righteous cry^ 
andthe Lordheareth them, anddelivereth them otH of all 

their 



when we beexercifed withman^ ^ long affltBions. 

their troubles: The Lor dis nigh unto them that are of a 
broken heart : andfavethfuch as be of a contrite (pp'rit : The 
Lsrda/fo mil be a refuge for the opprefed : a refuge in times : 
of trouble. The needy fhall not alwayes be forgotten : the ex- 
peSlationof the poorejhall not perijh^ for ever. God is our re" 
fuge and flrength , a very prefent helpe in trouble. 
Fearethou not y fer l ant rvith' thee '.. bee not difmay" 
ed ^ fur. Lam thy God: I roiil firengthen thee , yea I will 
helpe thee '^ yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand 
ofmyrighteeufne^e, Beholdy all they that were incenfed a- 
(jainH thee,JJ?afl be afhamed and confounded : they fljaU be as 
^othivKT ^and they that Jtrive with thee Jhallperifh.Teare not^ 
ihouworme Jzcoh, and yee men oflfracU. ; I will helpe thee, 
faith the Lord,<tndthy Redeemer ^the holj One of\{xz^\\.Sing 
O Heaven, and be joy full, O Earth, and breake forth into 
finging, Mountaines ; for Godhath comforted his people, 
and will ha^ye mercy upon his ajfli^ed. But TL'ionfaid, The 
Lord hat hforfaken me,andmy (jod hath forgot ten me. Can a 
woman forget her fucking^ babe, that fhe/houU not have com" 
paffion on thefonne of her wombe ? yea, they may forget, yet 
will not I forget thee. Behold I have graven thee upon the 
palmes of my hands, thy walls are continually before m?. Be. 
canfe he hathfet his love upon mettherfore will I deliver him: 
Iwillfet him on high,becaufe he hath k^orvnemy T^me.He 
fffall call upon ms, and I will anfwer him : I will be with him 
in trouble. Twill deliver him, and honour him. In thefe and 
fuch like psffages of holy Scripture, wee fee with what 
love.andtcndemeffe the Lord doth correal his children, 
for the glory of his great t*Qame,and their exceedinggreat 
benefit j that they might know themfeVcs, their frail- 
ties and graces ; be purged from their droffe , emptied 
of felfe-conceicedncflc ; confirmed in hope, patience, hu- 
'niiliry; quickened unto prayer, and fittei-for his king- 
"dome ; how gratioUdy he doth proted avid coitifbrt them 
in heavinefl'e,'h"ghten their darkenefiCjI^eale their woiinds, 
kecpe their feetc from falling, cover the in with his 
feathers, hide them in his pavilioii, and fet them up on 



315 



Pfal. 



34 I7iii 



M 



high 



Pfal 9.5. 

Vcrfe 18. 



Pral.46.r. 
and prefent i^or 
their lelpe 
Efay 41.10,11 
12. 



Verfe 



Tft 






Pfal.c)i,i4,if, 



3i5 



pral.37.35. 

Jcr.ij.l I. 



Efay43.ij a. 



f/tfn; f ^ //V^ bj Fdth in time of\^d'verfim. 



Its mieffary to 
learnet»livety 
faithinafiiSiio 

Heb. 6,12. 
Rev. 1 5.10. 



Pialaj.ij. 



high from fuch as rife up againft them. He is the falvation 
of the righteous, and thoiv ftrength in time of troubhi 
His thoughts towards them arc thoughts of peace , and 
»otofeviU^ to give an expeBed end : He is continually 
with them, and holdeth them by their hand ; hee will 
guide them \vith hU counfelly and afterward receive them 
Hnto glory. Thefcpromifes, fo often repeated, be firme 
grounds whereupon to build our faith,that we fliaU not be 
hindredbyafflidionsinour Chriftian courfe, but rather 
furthered, till we attainc unto the end of our eourfe in 
Gods Kingdome. 

And furcly it is moft nccefiary that we Icarne to live 
by faith in affiidions, por faith is the ground of (ilcnt and 
quiet cxpedation of falvation. When Chrjftians are 
perfecuted forthcnameofChrift, all men fee thej have 
great neede of patience , that after they have fajfered for 
a timey they might enjoy the fromife , vvhicb now they 
hold by faith , as it were by revcrfion, not in aduall pot 
feffion. But without confidence there can be no patience. 
Faith in God is the only ftay and fupport of the heart in 
trouble and afflidion, Ihadfaintedunlejfel had believed 
to fee the goodne^e of the Lord in the land of the living. 
Remember the Vfiordunto thy fervant i upon which thou hafi 
eaufedme to hope, Thii is my comfort in my ajfii^iion ; for 
thj word hath ijuickned mee. In daily and lighter tryalls 
a man of mild and patient temper may hold up the 
Head : but when one deepe calleth unto another,and the 
waves flow over our head J when nature yeeldetb, and 
the heart faintctb, then to (^and f aft and be of good cou- 
rage^that onely can faith doe, which is grounded upon the 
rich mercy of God, and relieth upon his Almighty po- 
wer. Faith is the Palme , that finkes not under the 
waighrieft of burdens, the Camomile that fpreades the 
more it is trodden 5 thcoile that ever overfwimmes the 
greateft quantitie of water you can powrc upon it. In 
the moft boifterous tcmpefts it lifteth up the chinne, that 
wc {hall not drowne: and when a man is halfe dead, it 

quickens 



rvhe}^ wfe he exercifed mrhma^y cJ* ^^^^ afjlt6ijens, 

quickens and pats life into him. By faith the Saints have 
cndmcdcrfie/l mockiHffs and fcop$rgingr^honds and imprifoft' 
mentSytortures and death andinTalltheJewere mvre then con- 

Faith Is the fliicld of the foule, whereby it is defended 
againfl all the fiery darts of the Dcvill. When we arc 
affiidcd, we (hall be tempted to impatience , defpaire, 
douhtingofGodsIove, and the ufc of wicked mcancs to 
helpe our fclves out of trouble. The world will follow us 
with fcornes and taunts, as if God had forfaken us and 
would not arife for our helpe ; Our owne corrupt hearts 
will be ready to ftart afidc, repine, faint, queftion the 
tords truth and mercy : and * Sathan wiU not bcwanting 
to his opportunity with ail his might, malice, and fubtiltie 
to feducc, difcouragc, or terrific. W hen our Saviour was 
an hungrcd in the wildcrneflc, the tempter came unto 
him y and faid^ If thott be the Sonne of Qody command 
that thefe ftones he made bread, NoW feeing the burden of 
affli(5lions is made more heavy by temptations accompa- 
nying, we had ncedc to be well underpropped with a 
lively faith, that wc might withftand and repcU the force 
of the Enemy. 

Faith onely fupplieth all our wants in afflidion. He 
that poffcfletn all earthly things in greateft prof perity, and 
hath not faith^hath nothing indecde ; much leffe the man 
thatlivcth in mifery : but he that live* by faith wants no- 
thing that is good, when miferies befet him on every fide. 
For the prefcnt riches of a Chriftian are the gracious and 
faith full promifes of God , which faith poffeffeth, not 
looking to what we have in hand, but what the Lord hath 
laid up in ftorc ; and expedleth to receive from God in 
fitted feafon, more aifurcdly, then if he had it in his owne 
power to ufc. The Men of this world truft their friends 
with their ftocke or moniei> and make account it is as 
ready at hand,as if they had it in their owne pofTeflion : and 
furcitisjthetrue believer hath juft and good caufe to 
trufl God rather then himfelfe, and to relie upon his 

wordl 



317 



Heb.ii.j5,56 



Ephef.^.i^, 



ii.&3f.ij,i6 
Job.30. 1, 

^.iThcf.j.y. 
Match. 4. 3. 



518 



Hab.z.;4« 



PfaliS.i. 
Pfal3i.3.& 



The Godly are 
alloKvedto live 
by faith in af- 
fliifi$Ht, 
•i Tim.4 S. 
*Rora.8.i8. 



* I Cor.io/ij* 



Pfal.565. 
Pfal. 3 1, f . 



Pfa.»3.4. 



//<?«; f tf tive^ Fdithintimt of\^dverfim, 

word for whatfoever he bath committed unto him. Faith 
in time of danger doth as it were fence and compaffc us 
with the promifes of God : but without faith wc are na- 
ked, and lie open to the malice of our adverfaries. 'Behold, 
hisfonle which u lifted uby is not ftpright in himy hut the jufl 
Jhali live hj his faith. Tneunjuft man puffes up himfclfc, 
and buildes towers ofdefence to himfelfe : but the Juft 
manbelieveth,andthat.{]iallbetobimin ftead of all ca- 
ftles J towers, and bulwarkes in the world. For it brings 
us under the wing, prefence, and prote(5lIon of God : it 
makes him our refuge and fafeguardjhigh rockcjand tow- 
er of defence. j7 .'jb. 1? :5 if.ii o' 

Aftolons profit not, if tiiey be not mixed with faith 
in them that beare them. Bodily phyficke procureth not 
health, ifnaturallheate be lacking in the patient, which 
might caufe the potion to worke to the expelling of the 
ficke humour.: faith in rcfped of affliifliorLS the phyficke 
of the fouIe,is thatnaturall heate, whereby they are made 
to worke kindely to the purging of finne and tne incrcafe 
ofgrace and comfort : where it is altogether wanting, 
there can be no kindly worke. 

The righteous are allowed to live by faith in the times 
of evill, when calamities of all forts compafTe them about. 
For ^goditnejfe hath the fromife of this life, axd that which 
is to come :znd the godly arc to believe bothj according 
to the word of the Lord. God hath promifed, that ^ all 
things Jhall worke together for goodyto themthat love god, 
and that <= he will not fuffer uttobe tempted above that we are 
able : and it is our duty to ** believe God , that it fliall be 
even as he hath told us. 

The godly have had this confidence in former times, 
whofe pradife is both a token of our priviledge,anda pat-, 
terne of omv duty JVhat time lam afraid I will trufl in thee. 
Intothine hand I commit my fpint : thou hafi redeemed me, 
O Lord God of truth. Tea^though IwalksthroHghthe vaUey 
ofthejhaddoivofdeath, IwiUfeare no eviU^^for thoH art 
with me, thy rod, and thy fiafe they comfort me. Come, and 

let 



when we he exemfed with mdnf S" ^^^^ mffitcfiom, 

let us returnettnto the Lord: for he hath tome, and he rvi/i 
heale us, he hathfmitten , anei he will l^inde w up : After 
two ctayes vill he revive uijn the tMrddayhewiU raifeus^ Hf, 
andrvefiiall live in his fights -'>^ - \ j-vn-.-'-Ciiv/ •'^^ ,st , i.. 

God is hereby much glorified that we relie upon him 
as our rocke of defence, al-fufficient Saviour, and trufticft 
friend in time of diftrefTc. It is one of the Lords moft roy- 
all titles, to be the F<#)&fr of the Faiherlejfe ^ and a judge 
of the widdoT»es^a refuge for the oppre^edjand the helper of the 
pecre. Thou hafl beene afirengthto thepoore, a ^rength to 
the needy in his- dijire^e y a refuge fiom the fiorme , a 
Jhadow from the heate , when the hlafl of the terrible 
ones is as a Storme agdfifl the wall, *^nd therefore 
win the Lord w ait e, that hee may bee gracious unto you^ and 
therefore win he he exalted^ that he may have tner^y upon 
you. . ■■ ■ : A'-' 

The Lord hath commanded us to waiteupon him in the 
dayes of calamity and forrow. ThejufifhallUve hyfaith.It 
is the very fcope of this text^to teach this one point of do- 
(5l:rine to the lewesj when they (hould be oppreffed by the 
'Bahyldnians^vix.thsLt in greatcft dangers ,the onely way is 
to ftay our felves, and eftabliih our hearts by faith on 
Gods promifes. 

Confidence in God doth the more bindc and oblige 
him, as it were, to doc us good. T'^tf Lord/hall helpe the 
righteotu anddeliver them :. hefhaH deliver them from the 
wiekfidy andfave themhecaufe they trufl in him, Theu wilt 
keepe him in perfect peace, whofe minde is flayed on thee , be» 
CAufe he hath truftedin thee, I will fnrely deliver thee, and 
thoufhah Hitfallby tbefword, but thy lifefhall be for a prey 
unto thee becaufe thou hafl put thy trnfl in me^faith the Lord. 
If a friend relie and build upon our faithfull promife, wc 
take our felves bound not to f ruftrate his expC(5lation in a 
dead lift : the Lord will never leave the foule deftitute, 
, which trufts in him. The faithfnll have promifed thtem- 
felves helpe, and confidently begged aid, becaufe they 
trufted in the Lord : ^emetcifun unto me, O <Jody be msr. 

ifttlh 



HoO«.i 



Pfahfig.y. 

Pral.9.9. 

Pfai.io.i-^. 

Efayjj.4. 
Efay j9 18, 



Hab,i.4, 



Efay z^.j. 



Jerjj.iS. 



Pfal.141.8. 



Pfal. J 7. 1, 



«; 



Kal. 57.1. 



Pfal.i4^.f. 

A if s of faith in 
refpeSi of theft 
promi/es. 

Efay45.7. 
Amos 5. 6, 
Job. i.zi. 
Pfal.119. 7f. 

Hcb,iz.7. 
Hof. ^. I. 



Uotv to Iwe £fy F 0th iff time ofi^dverfitie. 



I 






3. 



s Chron.io.ix 



cifu& unto me , for mj foule trufteth in thee x yea in thejha^ 
dow of thy wings will I make my refuge , nm'ttt thefe cala- 
mities hover f^ft, Canfe me to heare thy loving kitide- 
^effe in the (J^ferKtng, for in thee dee I trpifi ; caufe me 
to know the -way Vfherun I Jhould walke, for I lift tip- my 
foHk unto thee. Deliver mee , O Lord^ from mine e- 
nemiesjor Iflie unto thee to hide mee. And to hope in 
God, and to have God for our beipe, arc linked together 
in Scripture, fo that his helpe is ready for all them , vvho 
reft upon him in truth. Happy is he^ that hath the god 
of Jacob for his helpe : whofe hope is in the Lord his 

gok. 

The ads of faith in rcfpcd of thefe promifcs bee 
thefe. 

Firft, It lookcth unto God and acknowlcdgcth his 
hand in all affiidions , whofoever be the inftruments. 
Shall there be evillin a City^ and the Lord hath not done it. 
The L^rd gave y and the Lord hath taken away, I kpow O 
Lordjthat thy judgments are right ^and that thou in faithful- 
nefe hafi affliBed me. Jf yee endnre chafiening, god dea- 
leth with yon as withfonnes : for whatfonne is he, wloom the 
Father chafleneth not. And this is one fpeciall ground of 
humiliation, patience, and comfort. Come ^ani let m re- 
turjce unto the Lord, for he hath tornfy and hgwi^heale us. 
Afyfonne,def^ife not thou the chajfening of the LorK neither 
be weary of his correBion. For whom the Lordlovethy he cor^ 
reBeth^even as a father thefonne^in whom he de light eth, Let 
him curfe : for the Lord hath bidden him. It may be that the 
Lord will looke on mine af[lt£}ion, and that the Lord will re- 
ijttite good for his cHrfing this day , But of thefe more parti- 
cularly hereafter. 

Secondly, It tcachcth that we arc m fuch diftrcfles, out 
of which none can helpe us , but the ftrong helper of 
Ifrael. Faith fpcaketh on this manner; We have no might 
againfi this great company, that commeth again ft us : nei- 
ther know we what to doe^ but our eyes are upon thee. And 
great is the benefit of this inftrudion, for it drawes the 

heart 



when we. be excnifed wit h many and long dfflicHons .1 521 



heart from carnall repofc in meanes or friends ; it cxpclls 
vexations and diftrading cares, and cftranges from the 
ufe of unlawfull meanes of dcliver:\nce whatlbever. The 
horfe fs prepared agAtfifi the day ofbatteH : hHtJafety is of the 
Lord, fiyin horfe ii bnt a vaine fhing tofave a man y neither 
isttnym^m delivered by hit .jreatfrrefi^rh. And the fame 
may be faid of wifdomc,(wiftnc{te, wealth, or the force of 
any meanes whatfoever/.hough never folawfulI,or likely: 
But as for unlawfull meanesjno goodfucceffc can be hoped 
from them.?"^^ S£jptiit»sjha/I helpe in vame,andto nopur-^ 
pofe\ therefore have IcryedconcermngthiSy their flrength is 

to fit ma. 

Thirdly, It wifely dircfteth us to confider, that- the 
caufe of ail mifcrie and forrow is finne, and thereupon 
drives to examine our wayes, humble our felves before 
God for mercy ; renew our hope in his grace, and fct 
upon reformation of what h out of order. Faith is a good 
Phyfitian, that feeketh to cure the difeafe, by taking 
away the caufe thereof ; when God takes tryjJI of us 
that we might know our felves, faith maketh fearch in- 
to the heart ; when he judgeth by his chaftifcments, faith 
maketh us to judge our fclvcs ; and wheii God ftrikcth 
for finnc, faith ftriketh at the head of finne. Lh m fearch 
and try our rvaies,4>tdt»rfte againe to the Lord. I thought on 
nty yvayes : and turned my feet unto thy tefiimonirs. When 
O^lanajfes was in afflidion, he befought the Lord his 
God, and humbled himfelfc greatly before the God of his 
Fathers. Surely it ismeete to be faidnnto God, I have borne 
ehafiifemirtty I will not of end any more. That nvhich I fee 
I not^ teach thou mee ; if I have done iniquity y I will doe no 
'more. 

Fourthly, Faith mcckeneth the heart willingly to fub- 
'mititfelfc to the good pleafurc of God, and patiently to 
ibcare his corrcdion. Refl in the Lord, and waite patiently 
for him : fret not thy felfe becaufe of him who profpereth in 



Prov. ii.^i. 
Eccle.9. i. 



Efay.j Oi7.& 



j his way, Tet unto Qo^ my foule kgepe thotifilence : for from 
him is my expectation. By fiiith the fervants of God have 

Y beene 



Hof.j.i y. 



I Cor.11.31. 

Lam. 3. 40. 
Pfai.1i9.f5. 

iChtOijj.iz 



lob. 3 4. 3 1, 5 i. 



4. 



Pfal.37.7. 
Pfal.62.i,f. 
Lam.3.i(J* 
Efay.30.iy. 



Mich. 7. 9, 



zSam.i 5.26. 
pfdi.isi.a. 

PCs 8.14,15. 



322 I How to live by Faith in timeefJd'verJttie^ 

becne inabled to fay, The word of the Lord is good^ Ivfill 
beare the indignation of the Lord ^ becaafe I have finned 
againfi him^ untill he -plsa^^ my caufe^ and execute j^dge- 
tnent for mee. If he fay thm, I have no delight in thie, behold 
here an^ /, let him doe to me as feemeth good unto him. Surely 
I have behaved Andqmeted my felfe oi a child that is weaned 
cfhii Mother ; my fsule is even as a we Anei child. I was as 
a man that heareth not^ and in whofe mouth are no repyoofes* 
For in thee, O Lord, doe I hop\ Guiitinefle of Conlciciice 
("which is ever FeareFull,) and untame J paHions make un- 
quietnefle, when the rod of God is upon oar backes ; 
both vvhich are corretfled by faith. The conlci^nceis com- 
forted by faith, rcfting upon the gracious promfes of par- , 
donj and giving affurance that finne is psrdoned ; Paflions 
are curbed and bridled by the foveraignty of faith, as ha- 
ving the sffedions under conrtmand, which it doth feafon 
and move according to the direction of the word ; and by 
ftrong, potent, irrefiitible perfwafion?, whereby it wor- 
keth the foulc to this fweete and heaveiily fubmiflion. And 
as a p'aift^r, which upon fore flefti caufeth much fmart,up- 
on found flefli ftirrcth no painc: fo troubles lighting Hpon 
a foule hea'ed by g^racc, and feafoned by raith,arc nothing 
fo grievous. 

The confiderations of faith, whereby it perfwadcs unto 

meeknefle, be fuch like. The firft taken from the dcfert of 

fin, which is farre greater then any thing we fufi';r,or can 

j conceive. wherefore doth a l$vif}g ma» com^laine^a man for 

thepHmJhmentofhisfinnes? 

The fecondj from the hand that layeth the rod upon 
ourbacke, or r-f achcth our this bitter potion, which wc 
are forced to drinkc off, and that is God, our raoft wife, 
I jhn.iEi^i I. i juft.gracious.and loving father. Whereas humane reafon 
did cloudily and obfcurely fuggeft to it followers certainc 
broken an J confufed opinions, little better then dreames, 
ofdeflinie.and providence : Faith doth evidently and cer- 
tainly aflure ofthis ground of patience and comforr, that 
the leaft tickc befals us nor, without the overruling eytL 

and 



IB); 'pplAt confi 
: demtims fdtth \ 
\ per/wades to 

rmek?nes under 

Crods h'anA. 



iLarn 



3 39' 
2. 



whenvoe be exercl fed with many andlongaffiichons. 



and hand, not onely of a w ife God, but of a tender T ath . r, 
and fellow- feeling Eider brother, whobeft knGwetb,and 
can meafure out exadly what is mcetcft. He vrill tsot /ay 
npon man more then right, that hee pjouldenter int9 lud^e- 
ment with God, I was dttmhe, and opened not mj mouth be- 
caufe thou dUfl it. It is the Lord^ let him doe what feemeth 
him ^ood. 

Thirdly, Out of this principle faith cxtradls this infal- 
lible condufion, This Cup, how bitter and wringing foe- 
vcr, h a medicine to cure, not a poyfon todeftroy, ming- 
led by him, that moft pcrfedly doth underftand our need, 
our ftrength, and the working of his owne potion ; mini- 
{ Ored in great love and tender compaflion, to drive out 
corruption, confirme faith, prelervefrom falling, flreng- 
thcn grace, wcane from the world, and bring neerer to 
God by unfaincd repentance If it be ficknefle or pover- 
tic, it i^ in our Fathers owne hand, and he will not contend 
for everjcfi thejpiritjhoft/lfaile before him : If he turne us 
over to a fervant to (courgeus ; yea, though Sathan him- 
fclfe bufJet us,yet be ftands by to number & moderate the 
ftripcs, that they (hall not lay more upon us then {hall be 
for our good ; and he will inable us to beare. / am very 
fore diffleafed with the Heathen that are at eafe ■: for I was 
but a little dijp leafed, and they helped forward the ajfliElion : 
Therefore thtts faith the Lord y lam returned to ^crM^zlcm 
with mercies. U\^y grace is fuficient for thee : for my 
Ftrength is made perfeB in weaknefe. What ever bcfals 
being in Chrift, it cannot bend to our utter confufion : 
but an ifluc (hall be given unto it. W hat trrriblc noife 
foevcrthe ftorme jQiailmakc over our heads, it (Kali be 
but as haile-ftones upon the tiled or leaded houfe, that 
rattle more then hurt. We are kept by the power of 
Chrift, that tbeEvillone (hall not touch us : we are in 
lafe harbour under the rocke, and fliall ntvcr be confoun- 
ded. 

Sickewcarc, and that of divers humours, which may 
breed dangerous difcafcs if they be not prevented : tron- 

Y2 bles. 



523 



X Sam. 3.18 



Efny.f7.i5. 



Zach.i.ij,!^, 



1 Cor, 1 2. p. 



"4 

I 



1 Iohn,5.i8. 



324 



ECiy.27.9. 

Daii'i 1.55. 
Deut.8.^. 
Heb. i2.li, 
Deut.5. 1 6, 

Zach.3.9. 

Mai 5.^ 

I Pet. 1. 7. 



Lim 3.17 
pal. 2 



ic,yi. 



Prcao.jo. 



I IJ0JV to live by Faith in tim$ of Adverfitie^ 

\ bles, loflcsj difgraces, dangers and fuch Hkc, are the Lords 
I baths and pills, whereby he rids us of that inf edicus mat- 
: ter, which would impaire our fpirituall health, if it were 
I let alone; his bitc<.r potions, that fhall worke for our 
I health and welfare. He hath faid unto Crofics.purgc,re- 
I fine, try, exercife, breed the quiet fruits of rightcoufncfle, 
I give them experience of their faith, confirmc their pati • 
I ence, fupport their hope, make thera bring forth more 
fruit : but he hath given them no allowance to hurt, vexe, 
confoundj weaken faith, or wafte any grace of the Spirit. 
When we feele our bowels wring,or(a3 in a Sea-ficknes) 
are dcad-ficke for the prefcnr,rhen faith puts us in remem- 
brance, we fliall bcthe better many daics after. Phyfickc 
makes fickc before it gives health : fo doc affiidions, but 
the f I uit h pleafant . When they arc a little over we fhall 
be able to fay, Oh, this was good for me^ I would not for 
any thisg, but I had borne the yoke in my youth, that I 
may live the more comfortably in my age. Wife parents 
do not alwaies corre(5l their children in mcafure, as being 
ignorant of their nature and difpofition. The moft learned 
Phyfician may be deceived in the difeafe and conftitution 
of his patient, miftakc in the quality or ftrength of his 
Phy(icke,and fotrjiffc of his intended cure : But the fpiri- 
fuall Phyfician of our foulcs, doth fo exadly know our 
temper and difcafe, doth fo intirely affedt our health, fo 
accurately mingle the maligne and pbifonfuU ingredients 
in our Phyfickc with corredlors and araycs, that the con- 
fedion fhall be good,and altogether ftall and muft worke 
for the bcft. What i hough they be bitter to the tafte ? It 
is better with the body when it feedeth on fowre herbcs, 
which breed good bloud,then on fwect raeates which cn- 
I gender bitter vomits,& mortallfickncfTes.The true foule- 
\ lickncfre, vix. fin and corruption that dwclleth in it, doth 
cleave fo faft, and hath eaten io deepc, that gentle purges, 
cafie cor rofives (that fcarce work to fence or feeling)can- 
not expcll or remove it. True it is, that all evils in thcm- 
Iclvcs art hurtfoll, but faith lookcth upon them as they 

arc 



rvhenwe be ex erci fed with many and long AfflicHons, 

are changed in and by Chriflr, who hath taken away the 
poifon which would be in the crofles we beare,and makes 
them ferviceable for our good 5 Even a.nhe art of the Apo- 
thecary doth make a poifonfuU Viper into a wholefome 
Treacle. 

A man will bcarc much when hee fpieth this, that 
it commeth from love in another to him : But God 
is love it felfc: and from love proccedeth every courfc he 
paflcth upon us, as well this of adverfity as the other of 
profpcrity* whom he leveth he chafieneth, And [courgeth 
every fcK»e fokom he receive th. The care and good will 
I of Parents fl^ewes it felfe in providing Medicines and 
j Phyficke, which may prelcrve or procure the health of 
their children, no lefle then in their al-owance of meate, 
1 drinkr, appareU, or other benefits, which they beftow 
I upon them. And God is as mtrcifull in preparing and 
miniftring Phyficke for our fouks health, as in all other 
his daily benefits. Nay, herein doth appeare the moft 
fpeciall and tender regard that God hath over us. Fcrif 
good things be wanting to the body fpecially, we are apt 
to askc, and fecke after them : But fhould the Lord let 
us alone till we find out the difeafes of the foulej and be 
defirous of,or willing to receive his medicinable potions, 
our fores would grow incurable, we fhould perifh in our 
fins. Therefore, as the believer doth receive good things 
from God with /oy:fb doth he cvill wi;h meeknefic. The 
childe will take from the mothers hand, as well fowre as 
fweet, becaufe he is perfwadcd of her render love and af- 
fection ; (o doth faith entertainc afflid:ions from God, i 
knowing them to be fruits of his grace and fatherly com- 
paiTion. 

I Fourthly, After ferioiis humiliation and unfaincd aba- 
;iing of the foule, faith brings tydings that God will lookc 
jdownc from Heaven in mercy, and fendhelpeinfitteft 
Ifcafon. If their UMcircHmcifed hearts bee humbled, and 
[they then accept of the pun ifhment of their ini^Htty, Then 
will I remember my covenant with Jacob, and alfo mj co- 
I Y 3 venant 



325 



Piov.3.12. 
Iob.5.) 7. 



Efay^48.io. 



lob.t.xo. 



Deu 4.29^21. 

3 2.&}G.3,4. 

Lev. 16.41, 41. 
Efay.54.6j7,8 



325 



Eray.39.8. 



Mich 7.8,9, 



Heb.iz.Jjj. 



JMatth,i6.i4. 
Efay.^j.p. 



Col- J-i4- 
I Pet, 4. 15. 
Apoc 11.8. 

\ 



How to live by Faith in time of Adverfitie^ 

' , I - — - - - ■ — 

venanf with liaak, and alfo my covenant ivith Abtahatn 
mil I remember. And this doth marvclloufly quiet and 
ftill the heart. Should a mm be very ficke whileft the 
Phyilcke doth worke, he would not be dilcnayed fo long 
as he knew the fit flaouldlaftbutafcafon, and then cale 
(hould returne^ with health : And fo it farcth with the 
faithful! in their affli(5tions : Hez.^kiah laid to Ifaiah j 
Good is the roordofthe Lordi»hkh thou ha(l jhoken ; hafaid 
moreover i for there Jhall be peace andtrnth in my dayes. Re - 
joyce not ( faith the Church ) againfi mee, O mine enemle ; 
when I fall, I Jhall arife, -when I Jit in darkenejje, the 
Lsrd Jhall be a light unto mee, Iwillbeare the indignati- 
on of tide Lor &^ becaufe I have jinned again fl him ^ untill 
heebie al my canfs an^ execute i>*dgement for mee ^ hee rpill 
bring mee forth to lights and I Jhall behold his righteous-^ 

Fiftly, Moreover, faith doth re-minde us of our con- 
formity with Chrift in affiidions, and of bis partnerftifp 
with us therein. If he that was the firft-bomc^ the onely 
begotten and intirely beloved Sonne of God : iFhe that 
was without finnc, yet was not without ftripes ; fliould 
wc hope to goe free,or looke to be cockered coptinualhy ? 
All the Sonnes of God by Adoption are predeftinated to 
be m^delike tbeir elder-brother, as in holii-nelTe and glory, 
fo in affliiflions. Should wethinke much to fip or taJte of 
that cup, which he hath drunke off for our lake ? The 
firfl: Icflbn we take out in tbefchoole of Chrift is, Z>^- 
nie thy felfe, taks ^p ^^^ crojfe^ and follow the Lord lefrn. 
And the (orrowes which we beare, are not lo much ours 
as Chrifts. In all our troubles he is troubled with us : 
what burden foever lies upon us, he fceles the weight of 
it. When Stephen is ft >ncd, he is perfecucd : the wrong 
done ro the Saints, is offered to him. And he can no nwre 
bee unmiadfull of his people, then forgetflill of him- 
fclfe. 

Laftly, Faith fetteth before us the infinite recom- 
pence of reward, not only renownc in this world,^ which 

_ yet 



fvhenm beexercifedmthman^ and lon g affi^^i oris, 

:^etbv"faitb^b^p^t^^ and all holy Martyrs Inatb 

obtained ; but that farrenioO. excellent v/eigbt^of glory, 
whichW^/eying, counted bis, aifiidions (wbichtous 
wouW lave becnc intokr.bk) light ar>d mome.tany,no 
worthy tobenamedinccmparUon : which niad. him not 
cnely not wecpe and bowk, but fing ni the Dungeon.and 
reckon it a ipeciall Favour and honour to be counted, not 
onX a believer,but a fuffcrer for O rill.And even as wa- 
ters falbdowne intovaiiies, notable to abide m grounds 
batliehieh : fothe fenleofthefe.midlionsgoethaw^ay 
from mindes that are lifted up in fuch contemplation By 
thefe and fuch like p rfwafions, fauh alures the heart 
willingly, freely, conftantly to refigne it felfe to the good 
pleafure of t.od in aU ti ings. . 

the fift art of faith, It teacbeth wiredometojudgea- 
rieht ok all affliaions. ^ le^ed is the m^n vphomthoum^ 
P^mBeft, and teacheji him out of thy Uw : fed. Wllely 
toconfiderofataidions; of their nature end, ufc, and 
idue to them that fearc God. Heelhallreft^lorbspet^ 
in the dayes of adverfity. Did we not through falfeglal- 
fes fe things otherwise then they are, they would not 
caftusdowne fo much asthey d6e. Want of heavenly 
wifedome, what voices doth it draw from us ? Even inch 
as thefe; Were it any thing but this, I could hope to re- 
ceive good from it. Whereas through the fpeaacles of 
! faith we cometodifccrne, that the things we fufferare 
* moft fitto doe us good. For faith feeth not according t0 
fcnfcor outward appearance, but as the truth is m Jelus 
Thrift, alwayes magnifying the wifdome and coudesoir 
God, as beft and moft for our profit. The Spirit of wife- 
dome and underftandins:, of judgement and counfell was 
powred upon Chrift;ofwhich Spirit wc partake by faith, 
and fo are made wife to perceive the things of God,and to 
lU'Ve aright of his dealings towards us. And from this 
proceeds willingnes togive our neckes to the yoke,whcn 
God is pleafed to put it on. Fcare of hurt is that which 
makes us (hunnethc croffe,or go heartleffe under if.when 

Y A orce 



1 3^7 



1 Coi',4.i7. 



tlefft^a 
faith. 
Pfal.p4. 1 2, 



Verfc i3« 



^f 



EHiy.ii.z. 



3^' 



Ho\^ to lively Faith inUmgofAdverfitie^ 



6. 



Lam. i. 19. 



Pfal.f 



7.1,1. 



Pral.(52.8. 
Ef.iy.z6.i^. 
Pfal.141, 1,4 
Job, 5.8, & II. 
i3« 



■; once by faith,che (cales falling from our eyes,we come to 
j fee it ufcfiiUjbeneficialljhealtLifulljWe (Irainc courcefie no 
longer, bui take ic downc. 

Sixtly, Tru^ and unfained confidence will not keepe fi- 
\ lence m the eares of the Lord, nor ceafc to importune his 
I aide, to intrcate his favour. Arife, cry am in the mght : in 
the beginning of the watches powre eut thine heart Uke tv^" 
ter, bef'jre the face of the Lord: /if t up thj handt towards 
him. Be merclfull unto me, O Gdd^ be mercifuU unto we^far 
2 Chro. 14. 1 1. ^^ fottlf trnfleth in thee ; yea, in thefha:(orf of thy wings will 
J mike my refuge ^ untill thcfe calamities be »ver-pafi, I will 
pry antg Godmofi high : unto God that performeth all things 
for me, Trufi in him at all times ^yee people, fowre out your 
hearts before him: Lord in trouble have they vijited thee • 
they powred out a prayer ywhen thy chafiening was upon them. 
The counfell, which Slephaz. and Zophargzve to Tob^ faith 
doth apply and put in pradife •, which was to feekc unto 
God,and commit the caufe unto him ; to prepare the heart 
andftrctchout the hands towards him. Having no wife- 
dom of our fclvcs to make ufe ofchaftifetncniSjnor power 
to deliver our foules, faith urgeth to fceke unto God, that 
he would lead us by his grace in the way that we fiiould 
goe, teach us to profit, and in due time vouchfafe free- 
dome and deliverance. The true believer defires the be- 
nefit and fruit ofrcfcraint and corred^ion, no lefle then the 
comfort of freedome and liberty. He covets that the fpi- 
rituallficknefic may be removed, when i he bitter potion 
is taken away. A wife patient will neither refufe to Iwal- 
low bitter pils, when it may be for health ; nor diforder 
himfclfe to make workc for the Phyfician : he will take 
Phyfickc to recover ftrength, and lay it afide when the 
troublefoms maladie is expelled. A believing patient had 
rather be held in a continuall courfe of Phyficke, then that 
the matter of fpirituall ficknefle fhould gather, andin- 
gender difeafes in the foule. Deliverance with inward 
ieundncfic is the thing which he longeth after, and beg- 
gcth oi God. Thus faith will not fuffcr impotcntly to 

fret 



;E(ay.48,t7. 



rvhe;f fse he exerdfcdmth ^anj md Img affitlf:ons, 225? 



free, repine, or aiurmure ; nor yet to grow fecurc, as 
though it wcte no great matter how things went,for v/^ird 
or b3ckward:it doth both calme the 1 cart, and kinr'lc de- 
fires. Nor doth faith incite barely to cry uato God in di- 
ftrefle, but in all conditions eftabliiTicth the heart upon his 
aidc.that it lookcs not after other meanes of deliverance, 
then bee affjrds. The upright man wi' 1 dehght himlelte 
in the Almighty, when trouble commeth upon him ; 
he will call upon God at all times, and looke unto him for 
helpe. 

Seventhly, It faifeth the heart, being confcious of it 
wedkneflejto reft upon the Lord for Orengthjwho makes 
usable to doc all things through his ftrcngtbeningt>f us ; 
who ftrengtheneth his in the inner m.anto long-fuffering 
with joyfulneffe J who hath faid, fuch as looke to mee, 
fhaU renew their ftren^th^ they jhall mount up with wings 
as Setgles. they Jhall rnnne, and not he rpenry : they Jhall 
wAlke and not faint : yea, it fixcth and eftabliflicth the 
heart upon Chrift the rocke ftrong and impregnable, 
whence foUowetb courage and fteadincffe toundergoe 
them. Thofi miU keepe him in perfeB peace ( faith the 
Prophet} whofenfinde ^orthought^isfiayedonthee: be- 
CdHji hee trnfieth in thee. The righteem fhall not be afraid 
of evillty dings, hU heart is fixed ^ or ejiabllfhcd. ^ andtrU" 
fieth in the Lord. Thus faith fctteth the Lord alwaycs in 
it fight, and fortificth the heart in confidence of his might. 
I have fet the Lord alwayes before mee^ becaufe hee is at 
my right hand, I fhaU not he move /; (that is) I have over- 
come all temptations, my hope being faftcned upon the 
Lord ; for he hath powerfully aflifted and comforted 
mcc. 

Our ftrcngth is to clafpc to Chrift, and hold to him, 
as the pcrfon in whom is all our ftrcngth. The hil-rats 
arc a weake creature, having neither ftrcngth of limbcs, 
nor other meanes of nature to deferd tbemiclvcs : but 
making their houfes in the rockcs or ftonic places, and 
^"j'm^ ttiither in time of danger, they fave themfclves, 

and 



Job.27,c),io. 
Mich,/. 7. 



7. Aft. 

plnr.4 \i. 
eoli.iy. 

Efay,40.? J. ■ 



Pfal. 



94.i2- 



Efay.2 6.j. 
2 Chrofi,i5, 

Pfal. 



Pfal.i6.8. 
Pr1l.73.ZJ. 



Pro 50,10. 



3|o 



Efajr.jo.ij. 



Efay.ii.a, 



Eph.4.1 J,i6. 



Deut.zo.j. 

Efay.7,4, 

aChron.^5»7. 

Prov.aS.i. 

Pfal.izj.i. 

Efay.ia.2. 

Jorii.io.iT. 

Dent. 51,5. 

I Chron.i8.20 

t Chron.52.7. 

Pfal.27,14. 



• 



Howtohvchj Fa^thintimeof Adverjitky 

and provide lafely for their youn^-ones. WeTof^ur 
le.ves are feeble and weake , eaTil<> overturned- with 
the ieatt temptation : bu- working cur felve^ by fai-h 
into that rocke Jefus Chrift, againft whom the powers 
ot HcII cannot prevaile, we become couraPious. un- 
moveable, mvmcible It rrattcrs nor what weilht be laid 
upon the foundation, fo it be fiire and ftedfaft, if ChriP- 
beourfupp rter, (as by faith he is made ours j norhinc 
can overwhelme us. In quietneSfe and confidences om 
strenath. 

rnnf f '"^l^^ ^u^^ "^^ ^^'^^^^ ^^^ ^P^^''^ ^^ fottitude and 

nZ^^^ ''^l u ' ''" '^'^^ '^'' ^^ ^"^"^^ f ^e burthen 
otatfii(^,ons, and become valiant in combates. For the 
Ipirit of wifQome and counfel! , of un Jcrftandin-' and 
ftrength was powred into Chrift, to the el^ we Sight 
boldly goe unto him, to aske thofe things we ftand in 
need of and recave them by faith according to our mea" 
lure. Ag the head communicates ftrength to the body, fo 
^h^'f if 1 T?^'ru' ^^'•^"^'^^Ws heavenly unaion upon 
the whole body of his Church. When the Apoftles had 

received this fpint of ftrength,they make a play of al their 
fuff. nngs and laboursjeven as in bodily things we fee men 
that have ftrength and courage (as thefe porters ^nd fuch) 
they will make a fport to beare luch burthens, as a weake 
creature would tremble to lift at. For as bladders fwimme 
a ofc all waters whilft they are filled with winde : fo doc 
we above all afflidions, whileft this Spirit is with us, to 
fupport us m them. ' 

n.<l"'^; ^^"btingfeeblenefle, fainting, nicc-tender- 

dfftrnO T? ^'•"^^''^ ^'''■^ P'^^^^^ ^'^"^ infidelityand 
diltruft. Hardinefle, courage, valour, invincible durance 
arethefrmts offaith, ftaying it fjfe upon the Lord, and 
feeking unto hm. 'Se (irong^he ofgoodcoHr^.e.fe.re not^ 
norhedtfm,jef,for the Lord will he r^ith thee,heJll„otfdll 
fuchvlf '^ i,' r '• ^^^r"ft ^^y times- wrings from us 

tobea^?r^^^^^^ 

CO Dcare it . Whereas did we in confcience of our impo- 

■ tencie 



when we he exercifidwith mmj mdlcn^^ afflictions, 

tcnciereektoChriftto makeup ablcand fa en our feives 
upon him by a lively faith, we {hould finde ftrcngth 
enouah through his might, whcrby to bea-e that comfor- 
tably'! which we thinke moft intoUcrable. Faith drives a 
man cue of himfelFc^as not able to bcare the leaft crofle as 
heoueht, and through the power of God itenablcth to 
beare thatbert ( how troublcfome focver ) with which 
Godispkafedtotrieus. r n 

Eiehcly, By faith the godly heart is drawne to ufc all 
la wfull meaner of helpe, that God in his providence doih 
afford, but refteth quietly upon God^ promiles, and aflu- 
ranccofhis prcfence above all likclihoeds a -id appearan- 
ces. God f?MlI If and ({^ith the Pfalmift) at the right ham of 
phe poore tofave him fronf thofe.thaifondemne his foul e .when 
Icrieuntothee, then Jhall mine enemies turne baeki, thts I 
knowJor God is far me. . ^J^fofe^ left %pf, and feared not 
the wrath of rhe King : becaufehcfaw him that was in- 
vifible. Thereafon hereof is, faith coupkth the meanes 
and theend, but lookethto the promifer, his grace, faith- 
fulneffe, and power (who is ab;e to doe above all that we 
can comprehend j and not to the probability of the thing 
promifed. Abraham againfl hope believed in hope, that hee 
might bscome the Father efmany Natiorts, being fnlly per- 
fwaded.thatrohat Qod hadpromifed.he mu able toperforme. 
By faith Sara received ftrength to beare a Sonne^ whenjhee 
waspafi age ; becanfejhe ^jfidged him faithfullwho hadpro- 

mifed. 1 r • u 1 u 

This dependance on the promifes which faith worketh, 
' is abfolute, without limitation of time, meafiircofafflicSi- 
' on, or manner of deliverance. All tbefe it referretk to the 
good pleafure of Gods will, and repofeth it felfe fecurely 
upon his faithfull word and providence. H<f that beheveth 
win not make ha(ie. Feare rides poft to out-runnc dan- 
ger A' folly turnes over with fpeed our mourning part be- 
fore God, delighting to be in the houfe of laughter : but 
! faith.whichleaneth upon the promifes of truth, makes no 
I hafte without good fpeed. Daniel waited fe venty yeares 



531 



8. Aa. 



Hnb.1,1. - 
Pfal J.J. 

Pfal.: 2 34. 
Pfal. 5 6.9. 
Hcb.i I.Z7. 



Ephcf.j.to, 
Rora.4.i?,4i. 

Heb. n.ii. 



What manner 
6/ dependance 
on the promi/es 
faith worlietb. 

Efay.28.16. 



Dan,9.z. 



3 n How to hvcbj Faith in time ef Jdverfitte, 



Heb. 1 1 . 1 ^. 

ECjj.55.5'. 



Pfal.55.4. 



Exra.8.2j. 



Pfal.27.1,2,3 
Pfal.g 6. 
Pfal.54,4,5. 

Pral.118.7. 
Pral.46.5,7. 



Pfal,ii5.f,7. 
SPfaI.il. 4, 



for ddiverance one of captivity in Babylor,^ then finding 

the time of redemption to be at band, he prayed to God 

for the fame. As for the meafure ofaffiiaionjor meares of 

deliverance, the voice of faith may be heard in loh and 

^braham The one profefied be would truil: \n God 

though be {hould kill him ; The other, being commanded 

to lacrihce his oncly Sonne Ijaac the fonne of the promife 

believed that fome other way he /hould receive him from' 

the dead. This efFedl faith bringeth forth v^ hen all mcanes 

|ia le. yea, agamO all oppofitions, \^ fhew never fo ftron^ i 

jandirreiiftiblc. For the meanes of themlelvesbeofno I 

j worth and validitie, and God is the fame, one and un- I 

j changeable (whofoever op'pofe ihemfe! ves cgiinft his de- i 

[ termir.ations)moft ready to fuccour when al meanes faile | 

' (^f^ourrefugeandjirength.a'veryp'efenthel^ein trouble: \ 

Therefore mil we not f ear e, though the emh b^ remaz'ed.and I 

Ihattgh the momtttines he caji into the mUsl of the Sea, \ 

Thdt^g^ the waters thereof ro Ate, and betronh led, though the I 

moftntaines Jhake with thefwellmg thereof wherefore jhonld ^ 

Ifeare in the dates ofEviU, vphen the iniqfutj of my heeles I 

C that IS, the wickednefle my feetc carried mec to ) jhall \ 

compare me about. For the hand of our god is upon aU them \ 

for goody that feeke him, but hU power aj^dhii wrath is a- I 

g^mfl all them that forfake him. The Lord is my light and I 

myfalvation, r^hem jhall T feared TheLordistheHrength \ 

of my life, ofy^homfhalllhe a^aid ? Though an hoaftjhoitld ' 

encampe again ft me, my heart Jhall not feare! 'Beheld^ God 

ts my helper, the Lord is with them that uphold my }oHle, 

He Jfhall reward eviH unto mine enemies ; cut them off in thy 

trmh, -^ -^ 

But for fupport in this cafe/aith turneth it fclfe to me- 
ditate on Gods truth, which never faileth- bis might 
which cannot be refifted ; his wifedomc, which ever 
effedleth his own workes by meanes beft approved in his 
counleU,inthcfitteafcafon; and his tender compaffions 
whereby he is ready to fuccour them that are brouaht 
low. Againe, it looketb to the manner of Gods dealing, 

and 



vohen m he exerdfedmh mAny ^ndlmg affli£iions. \ 555 



and to the ufuall courfe, which he hath held with his Ser- 
vants in all ages paft i which is to grant delivcrance,whcn 
the aifiiaions of his fervants be incrcafed, and lend hclpe, 
when to fenfc and reafon it is furtheft of.For every foulc 
is the Lords, Oi thejouh of the father, fo alfo the fouU 
ofthefonni: and what favour he hath fhcwed unto any 
one, he will vouchfafe to every one that feeketh him dili- 
gently, ifit may be for their good. It is alfo confirmed 
by the experience of Gods dealing with us m former 
times of diftreCc and danger. Thou art hee that tooke mee 
out efthe rvomh -, thou didfi make meebope, i^henjwas 
upon my mothers heap. I rva4 cafi upon thee from the 
womh ; thoH art my God from my mothers belly. O God 
thou haft taught me from my yoftth-^and hither mtohave I de- 
clared thy vfondrom jvorkes^ For former mercies are as bils 
oblieatoric under his handjto allure of future good things, 
as they ihall be necdfull. That which God hath once done 
forusinfuftaining, quickning, quieting our fpirits with 
peace which paffcch underftanding, keeping our hearts 5 
that he will doe every day unto us, if we inforce our 
fcVcs towards him.Moreover,a good heart will not ccafe 
to accufe, checke, and condemne it felfc for the Infidelity, 
diftruft, and weakneffe of faith that it efpieth ; to incite, 
ftirrc up, and call upon it felfe more confidently to waite, 
and truft in the Lord ; and in bitterneffe of heart to feekc 
and fue unto him for more ftrength from above, why art 
thou caft: doyvne, O myfoftle, rvhy art thou dijquietedmthm 
met ? Hope in God, for I fhaRyet praifehimforthehelpe 
of his countenance, Owy God. my foule ^ cafi donvneyvithin 
mee 

Ninthly, Faith believcth one contrary in another, and 
out of deepeft diftreffes gathereth affurance of fwceteft 
deliverances. For the Urd Jhall judge hie people, and 
repent himfelfe for his fervants, wto hee feeth that iheir 
power is gone, and there is nonejhui tip or left. Thf Lord 
will he a refuge for the oppreffed: a refuge in tint* [^or due 
timr\ of trouble . Mans extremity is Gods opportunitic : 

I- -Deepeft 



EX3.8.& J.6. 
I2ek.i8.4. 

Kal.2a.9. 



Pfal.71.17. 
z 't'im.4.17, 
18. 



PfaL4X.5;,ix. 



g. Ad. 

skiing. 1 4. 2^. 

Pful.9.9.& 

10,1. 



314 



How te live h^ Faith in time ef AdverfitiCy 



Pral.xo.T. 
Exod r4.3Z. 
Dan.6,a:, 



Jer.30,ij,i4. 



1 



Dceceft mifery is the fitteft feafon for deliverance. Men 
often, like to Swallow es, will be with us in Sumirer, but I 
leave as in winter. The Divell, when he hath dra wne his | 
into thebryarsj will give them leave to looke for them- ; 
felvcs. But God hath ever ftcod necreft to his,when their ; 
exigencies havebeenc greateft.The experience of mifery : 
^ calamity '\^ nade ihe fure ground of lu.h joyfull hopes, 
as the Lord hadi prqmiled. The greater forrowes the , 
people of God fuffered, the more undoubted experience ' 
they had oF divine truth contained in cJ^/ip/^i/V^^/Zthreat- 
nings : the more undoubted the experience of their truth, ; 
upon cor.fcioufne{le of their own tranfgrclTionsj the grea- 
ter motives they had, upon hearty and fincerc repentance, 
to apprehend the ftabilitie of his f weeteft promifes for 
their good. No deprellion of this people, but lervcd as \ 
a counter-fway to haften,intendj or inlargc the meafurc of; 
their wonted exaltation, fo long as they rightly weighed I 
all their aft'onsand prcceedirgs in CMefes ballances, and j 
compared thdr permanent foirow for fin paft with thcT 
wonted delight in tranficnt pleafures. This that the 
Lord had ftricken Facob wih the wound of anencmie, I 
and with a £harpe chaftifement for the multitude of his j 
iniquities, is propounded as an argument ofconfolation : 
for becanfe the Lord had killed, they mud believe, he 
would makealive againe. The prefent wounds, infii<Jled 
contrary to the rules of politique defence, were the beft 
pledges of their future health, beyond all hope of State- 
Surgeons. And when leremj more admired, then dillru- 
flcd Gods mercies, in tcndring the purchafe of his KinC- i 
mans field to him, when the King and Princes of /«^4^ j 
had no afTurance of fo much pofleflion in the promifed j 
Land, as to inherit the Sepulchres of their Fathers : the] 
Lord expels not his fuTpenfive, rather then diffident admi- 
ration, withfignss a,qd wonders, as he did Gideons doubt, 
orhis fliffe-nccked Fore- fathers diftruft. By what meanes 
then ? By the prefent calamities which had fcized upon 
I theCities oElftdahj and that very place, wherein his late 
I - , pu'rcha- 

^ ■7 'a"'Vi.„,.j.„....._.i^., ..■ : — - 



whe;^ we be exercifedwith many andlmgrfflilhons, 

purcbafed pofleffion lay. This is the very fealc o^Ieremi- 
ahs afl'urance, froiii the Lords owne moiitb. Th^ts faith 
the Lordjlikz ^'^ i have brG^ght all this great ^Ugue u^on thii 
people '^ fo vtill I bria^ upon them aUthr goodihAt 1 have pro^ 
mi/edthem. jind the fields fljaH he po^e^si h this Und^vehere- 
ofjefay, // is defolatc without tnan or beaft, (frc. The depth 
oFmifcry is ufually made an argiirent to move the Lord 
with fpecd to heare and {^nA h Ipc : a id this is grounded 
upon the prom fe of God to give audience to his chil- 
dren, when in their diftreHes th y remember themfelvcs, 
and fecke his face. <LAwak^, nhjjleepefl thout O Lord? 
arlfe, cafi us not off for ever, ivherefore hldefl thou 
thj face J and forget tefl our affliUl^n and oppreJf3» ? 
z/^ttiHd unto tj^y crjf, />»' I an brought very lorVy deli- 
ver mee ^om^ my perfecMters : for they a'^e fircng^r 
then L What, that as we feele God to be tru: in bis 
threats, fo we may be afiiired h: will not faile of bis 
promifes. 

Laftly, it re>oyccth in tribulationsj and triump':ieth 
before the victory. The patieit is glad whctihe tecles 
his phyficke ro worke, though ic make ficke for the time ; 
bccaufchehopcsit will procure health. Werejoyce in af- 
flidlions, not that they are joyous for the prcfenr, but 
becaufe they (hall worke for our good.. As faich re/oy- 
cc:h, fo it triumpheth in affuranceof good fucceffe : for it 
fccth not according to outward appearance, biillK'hcn 
all meanes faile it kc-pcth God in fight, and bclioldeth 
him prefent for our fuccour, ^Asf(>r m:e, I rvlll come into 
thy houfe^in the mviltitude of thy mercy: and in thy feare will 
Iworjhip towards thy holy Temple' I have trufledin thy 
mercy ^my heart Jljall re Joyce in thjfalvation. The righte- 
otts (hall compare ms ahoHt .* for tha^Jbalt deale bauntifdUy 
with wee. 

Thus arc we to live by faith when God is pleafed to 
excrcife ui with afHiclions of what fort foever, though 
heavy to be borne and of long continuance. Great trou- 
bles of long durance are the exercises of faith, as weighty 

burdens 



555 



Jv.X3«.4i,43. 



Deu5o.i,a,3 
! Neh s.7,8. 
i Pr.44.2 3,z4. 



10. Aft. 



lam. i.t,j. 
Rom. 5.5,4, 5. 
Hcb.ii.ii. 



Pral.f.7/ 

i rfal.ij ^. 
VCA^i^i 7. 

TFe rrAtfl livL\ 
hy faith in tic 
leaviefl and 
lorgr/i aJit-M't 

Or.S. 



\ 



33^ 



The aSfs of 
faith in ibis 
cafe. 



I. 

I Pet.i 6, 



lob.xidi. 



Hojv to live by Fmh in timeof Jdverfitie, 



burdens are try alls of ftrength. As none for a little headacf?, 
or for the ranch of a pin will feekc to the bodily Phyfitian j 
or Surgeon : So it is in a manner with the foule, whiled it 
is troubled with like grievances fpirituall. Little things 
doe not much exercife our faith, nor ftirreusuptofeeke 
God ; and £hort affliftions are foone forgotten. Faith in- ■ 
I deed defpifeth not the leaft crofle,but is moft prooved and 
I ftirred up in the greateft. Without queftion there is | 
moft need of faith, when afflidions lie the heavicft ; and I 
the more, becaufe Sathan will be moftbufic at fuch times 
to moleft and trouble j he wills to fhew his power and : 
malice when we are moft feeble. When God follows a ; 
man with one afflidlioa upon another, and thofe of great | 
continuance, then the Divcll will tempt to impatience and j 
defpaire, as if God tooke him for his enemy, and would j 
not fhe w compaflion any more. When the heart faileth, ' 
becaufe of the multitude of evils that compaffe us about, i 
and God hideth his face, man is apt to conceive, fure God 
hath forfaken me, and will not arife for my helpe. If: 
God did love me, he would never have abfented him- 1 
fefe folong, now I am brought fo low, in fo grievous di- ' 
ftreflc. How fhould the poorc foule, weake and feeble in ; 
it felfcjftand under this great weight of fore affli(flion,in- } 
ere afed by temptation and continuancCjifit be not upheld | 
by a lively faith? The afls of faith in thiscafej are for { 
fubftai^fe the fame with thofe before mentioned ; but for j 
the helpe of the diftrefled Chriftian, who may be unable 
to dire(5l himfelfe, I conceive it not amiffc to repcatc the 
principal!. 

Firft, It teachcth that many, and ftrong afflidlions, of 
great continuance,are no more then neceflary . A wife Phy- 
fitian will not minifter a ftrong potion, where a lenitive 
or gentle matter is enough, nor put one dramme too 
1 muchinhisprefcription : much leffe will the Lord, Wc 
need great affiiftions that our corruptions may be fub- 
dued within us. For as th: untaracdneffe of fome colt is 
fuch, that unlefle he were fore ridden, he would never 

be 



pfiheft rve be exercifed rvithmafty ^long affltBions, 



be broken, fo it \% with our rebellious nature. Learning 
tcis the Phyfitian, that in healing foiEC bodily dileafes 
the patient muft be kept fo low, that he mufl; be almoft pi- 
ned with want,beforc a spring of better blood can be pro- 
cured. Faith inftrudcth, that God is as it were for<:cd to 
caft man upon the bed of forrowj tiil his daycs draw to- 
ward* the bur iall,ard his bones begin to clatter, that he 
might hide, that is, fupprcffe and remove his pride, and 
cure the diftempcrs ot the foule. 

Our aWidions arc many and divers,bccaufc our corrup- 
tions are many and of divers kindcs, & fuch as arc not ex- 
pelled with one purgation.U one medicine fit not our 
fore, will we net feckc another. What Father will not 
ufe many remedies to helpc the infirmities of his Childe, 
if one doe no good ? Our heavenly Father kcepes us in a 
daily courfe of phylkke, now with one thing, now with 
another, becauie we profit not with any one alone. When 
affitdions are growiie ordinary, and ufual!,thcy move the 
leffe, becaufc they be familiar j therefore God is pleafed 
to alter and change his medicines, that they might worke 
more kindly. 

Andasitisneceffary thatafflidionsbe ftrong and di- 
vers, fb alfo that they be of long continuance ; for growen 
6\{zz{z% are not haftily removed,nor old fores quickly hea- 
led. As ftaines long fetled in a cloth, require mucMfcow- 
ring and long whitingjfo doe the evills whichhavc ocepc- 
ly eaten into our foule. In others wc may behold what 
is ncedefuU for our felvcs.Thc Pofterity of //r<«(r// endured 
tryall foure hundred yeeres. The elder people of God 
were all led captive feventy yeares. By woefull experi- 
ence every Godly man may finde,that being newly taken 
out of the furnace, he ftandeth in neede to be refined a- 
gaine. Be our affiidions of never folong continuance in 
1 this life, we arc well affurcd, they fhall not preflc us lon- 
' gcr then finnc doth harbour in our bofome : And if faith 
be not overcome and vanquiflied with dayly and con- 
tinuall conflifts againft corruption 5 why (hould it faint 

Z under I 



337 



Job.j5.i7,x». 
PfaLi07,i», 



Gen.iy.ij. 



■:m 



338 



2. 

Pfal. 5!. 1 5. 
Efay27.8. 
Heb.ia.8,11. 
Jer.46. i8, 
I Cor. 10, » J. 
Pfal. 103.10, 



Horv tQ live by Fdth in tmeof\^d'verfitiey 

under the barthen of long during croffcs. Sinne is more 
op^pfite to faith, more perillous to the foule, then any 
fatherly Chaftifcments (though ftiarpe and cutting,) 
as the difeafe is worfe then the phyficke miniftred to 
expellit. 

•Secondly, Faith in the grcateft cxtreamities fuggeftcth, 
that iWe are under the hand of God, who correfteth in 
meaiure, and for our profit, who hath determined the 
time and weight ot our affliaion?, and by his blcfling 
will turne them to our good ; who doth proportion our 
eyils, according to the ftrength we have, 01 which he will 
give>.not.accordingtoourdcfcFving; and alfo continue 
pur affliaions in great wifdome, faithfulncfle, and mercy. 
Even as the Phj litian only can prcfcribe what quantity of 
phyficke is to be taken , with what change, and bow long 
thecourfeofdietisto be continued: fo the Lord onely 
t^9^h appoint the meafurc, variety, and continuance of 
trpdble?, wherewith he is pleafed to exercife us. Wicked 
men cannot fet the time, nor meafure out the quantity of 
fuchmiferies,wherGofthey a;e inftrumcRts to the god- 
ly, for they would know no meane,nor ever make an end. 
They may be fit executioners of Gods will herein, when 
they be fettoo, and taken off, according to his appoint- 
ment : butunfic determiners what is to" be infiided, or 
J^o^^|fc|Pg it muft be endured. Nor are we cur felves to 
appomt the quality of our Chaiufements ; or the termes 
and feafons v/herein and how long they fhall be continu- 
ed : for we would taft onely, (if at all) of the milder 
phyficke, or fip but lightly of bitter potions, when necef- 
fity requires we ihould take decpe. The patient is not to 
betrufted withthe fearching and drelfing of his owne 
wound, if painfull to be handled. Now feeing it is the 
Lord, great in mercy, infinite in wifedome, abundant in 
love and tender in compafTions, v^rho doth mingle our 
cup, why fliould we fearc or faint ? lilacoh had held or 
tended /o/^/?^in prifon, would he have afed him roughly, 
orkeptbimoverlong? No no- muchleffe will God : 

(wha 



rvhen m be exercised withntmj & bng affliBions, 

(who is more merciful! then any Father, and more pitti- 
full then any Mother) hold us ovcrlong, or deale rigo- 
roufly with us : but ordering all corrcdions by his 
Fatherly providence , hewillinbis good time make 
them worke together for good, and not for evill unto us. 
But the very haires ef ydur head are ali numhred^ Retire 
yeenottherefore^yeeare ofmore v/ilne, thea many ffar^ 
rowes. 

Thirdly , faith fetteth a man about his worke , that 
is, ferioufly to make inquiry into his heart and wayes j 
deepely to humble bimfeife before God ; and fervently to 
intreat mercy for {inne paft , wifedome to make ufe of 
prefent mifery , and favour and mercy to be delivered 
and (et free. Sinful! men ( if well advifed) ftrike not 
without caufe •• the jufl: God, when he corredletb, hath 
ever j'uftreafon. Andforafmuch as our confciences for 
the mod part are blinded with ignorance and felfe love, 
or over clowded with finfull lufts, (as looking giafTes co- 
vered with duft) that we cannot finde out of our felves 
much that is out of order, nor amend what we efpie to 
beamiffe, faith direrteth to fceke unto God by hearry 
prayer , who can throughly acquaint us with our felves, 
and teach us to reforme what he would have us to amend. 
Why doth the Lord give his children the repulfc when 
they cry unto him in their calamities^ -but that \hmQM\d\ 
have them fearch more nafrowly into their qo JBI, and! 
more unfainedly prepare-themfelves toTceke a'nd rcturnei 
unto him / And if they pray unto him, he. will infbru^^ 
what is to be done. He who.^wiU have finfiill men- tb; 
joync inftradb'on. with correftionj, yjsa and! putreth into 
man fuch. regard of dam))^,creatur.es^, tliat he. will rioti 
flrike adbggc, but he wiilmake him iee.,(fe wcU as hfe^cani 
what it is for which he ftriketh him; (hall not he inHiruft 
us, when his hand is now upon us for want of duty to 
himt , . . ... ,, i .^.•.,, ,;:n . • i 

^ I5ut Wnen we (cc otir faii][j;s,aodfmartforthcmirtfacb 
fort as we^ ^ccoHpt grievous ^ there is no power in us, to 



339 



Eray49. ij. 
Mat. 10,30, 51 



Judg.IC.lJ; 
14, I J. 



A.^ 



Hof.i4.t, ' 



340 



iGor.it.8, 
Pfal.ji.iJ,i< 



Pfal. 40.13. 
Pfal.88.ij5i4 



4.Aa. 

Pfalj$9.59. 
Phil. 1. 1*. 
I Cor. 1. 5. 



//^«? to live ^ Faith in time of\jdv(rfitie^ • 

rcdrcflb and fct Oraigbt what is crooked and out of frame. 
i " ^^° °"<f\y' who is able to blcffe aMidions and imakc 
them profitable : we ot our felves arc like little children, 
who being taken in the fault,and fearing the rod, promife 
todoenomotcbutprefentlyforgctboth the fault, and 
danger. This we learne by faith, which foundly leffoneth 
u todeny oarownewifcdome, and ftrength/andin all 
purpofes,refolutionsand endcvonrs to bcgge wifedome 
and arcngth from God above, and wholy to rely upon 
his power anrj grace. In vaine Qiould iron be beaten, did 
notfircfoft^it : m vaine fhould afflictions (which are 
Gods hammer; ftrike on our hearts, fhould not Gods ho- 
ly ^pirit,which is compared to fire,both foften our hearts, 
and enlighten us to fee our duties towards him, and teach 

us to make ufe of theaffijaion wherewith we arc exer- 
ciled. 

Moreover faith importuneth the Lord for mercy and 
dclivcrance.F.r thu thing Ibefought the LorA thrkr'that it 
might defa,nfromme^ U^4y timu oirein thy hand: dciivir 
mejrcmtbehandofmim enemies.and from them th^t perfc 
meme, O^^ie thy face u (him u:.^n-(fy^^^^ rj^eme 

^prthjmerctesfake,Te^leaja,OLord^ to delivrr mc : O 
J^ord fH^ehafi to htfe mte, nto thee have J crje^ O 

rT^«''r'*^'^r«^''^^^^*«7r^7^-r^^''»f thee, Lord 
^<ml^ltb,Ui>f^feuh,^i,y hiip%f,,,, thr freedom 

'^i^^^V'^'^f^:^'''^ ^ «P'^ abundance 
Otercy from God and through prayer and fupply of the 

■ SpiW. to reipepr6fit,„dtaft comfort anfwerable to h^ 
forro wm? hath felt and fe^dured. Great affliaions ^ fe 

w If 5"'Sl*T''',^^"'^'^f°>''.^^Wcb cannot 
.^,r|eeivddwi*OBt,fi„gHlar joy on our part. An hard 

wf^ ffr"°r •«*'•, If our fufferings be from God, 

Will d-nr^' J" Pi?? ^^ every trouble, unlefie we 

1 ^}J \ ?°^ wrfedome, and challenge his truth or 

ftewourfcto, « :tf *e Avere not^tt^chiidrenVnor 

w truely 



when 0€ be exemfedmthmatt'j & long affit^ions. 



trucly godly, and loving of God. If God throw us 
downe, we muft waite to be comforted of him, accor- 
ding to the yeares wherein we have felt affii(5lions. To 
iay, we cannot thinke that fuch a thing fhall ever doe us 
goodjthattverwerhallefcapeoutoffucha danger, that 
ever wc fhall fee good dayes after thefe and thefe tryals, 
doth argue great weakncfie and unbeliefe. For what can« 
not he make for our good, in what diftrcfle and anguifli 
cannot he revive , who caMeth light out of darknefle, and 
things that are not as if they were , if wc will give glory 
to his Word by rcfting upon it ? The heart kpoTveth the 
hitternejle thereof^ and the fir anger fhall not meddle with 
its joy. 

Thus living by faith in times of triall and vjfitation, 
doth fit and prepare the heart to thankfulneflc when light 
fhall ihine from on high ; and that fo much the more, as 
our affliidions have beene the fharper,or of greater conti- 
nuance. Returne^ O Lord:, how long, and let it repent thee 
concerning thy ferv ants ; Ofatisfie m early with thy mercy ; 
that we may rejeyce and be glad all our dajes. Thou haft 
tfirne;/for me my mourning into dancing; thou hafi put off' 
myfack^loth^ and girded me with gladne^e : To the end that 
my glory may fingpraife to thee, and not he filentxO Lord my 
God^ Iwill give thankes unto thee for ever. If one heale a 
trifling difeafe, it neitier fo bindeth the patient, F|M|om- 
mendcth the Phyfician : but if one heale us oW'omc 
deadly incurable malady , O we fay then wee could 
never have met with fuch a Phyfician , not the like in 
the world againe. Than brottghtefi m into the net, thou 
lai fi affltSiioH upon our loines, thou bafi caufecL men to ride 
over our heads, we went through fire, and through water ; 
but thou broughteft m out into a "wealthy place, I will goe 
into thy boufe with burnt Offrings , I will pay thee my 
vowgs. 

( It will bcobiefled , That in afflidion faith fecmeth to 
ii)c moft wcake, and corruption moft flirring. 

And true it is, that many doubtful! thoughts afcend in! 
Z 3 Chri-l 



341 



Pfal,9o. I J, 



Pfal.8j.5. 
a Cor, 4. 5, 

Rom,4, \ 7. 
Pro. 1 4. 10, 



Pral.so.13,14, 

Pfal.30.ii,xz. 
Pfal.jy.zS, 



Pfal.^tf.il, 

Prevention of 
ObieSfiQm. 

faith « weal^e 
O* corruption 
fiirring. \ 

I 
I. 



34^ 



2. 



flow to U ve Ifj Faith in time of^dverfiticy ^ 

ChriftianshcartSj^artlybecaufe they know not -that they 
arc allowed to live by faith in an afflidled ftate; partly bc- 
caufe they judge amiffe of their afflidlions, taking thern as 
arguments of wrath and difplcafure, rather then trials of 
faith, and chaftifemcnts of peace. As children through 
want of wifdome are afraid of bugbcares : fo the errour 
of our minde raifcth great fcare and doubt of tl:at which 
cannot hurt us, peradventure, might greatly comfort usjif 
rightly undcrllood. This miftaking muft be corre^Sed by 
faith and fpirituall wifdome. 

True it is alfo, we fometime feele more ftirring of cor- 
ruption in time of trouble for a while,then we felt before: 
but as Phyficke then expelleth burtfull humours when it 
workeih upon them, and makcth us complaine, as feeling 
them more then when they were let alone : fo doth Gods 
Pbyficke to the foule, even while it is driving out corrup- 
tionjit makes us feele and compla'ne of it more then ever. 
The like maybe faid of faith which we feele weaker 
during the time of triall : But ftriking the Torch, which 
fortheprefentfeemetht© put it out, maketh it blaze: 
Phyficke, which for the time weakens, doth tend to 
ftrengthen the body : fliaking the Tree which feemeth to 
loofc the roots, fafteneth them deeper j and the fame may 
bcfaidin this cafe. 

Iii||ftid:ions faith is tried, the fweetncffe of it is not 
fo nSKfelr, as it is latent, which makes us thinke it to be 
bronght exceeding low. The ftrcngth of the body is put 
forth in ceijflidls and burthens :fclt when we walke at eafe 
and liberty. A man may (hew moft ftrength in wrcftling, 
when to his ownc feeling he difcerneth moft weakneflc ; 
and fo it is in faith,when the fenfe is leaft, the power may 
be greateft. There is an afflicted ftrcngth, which cannot 
be felt great, though it be fo in truth : and there is an af ri- 
fled faith, which is not difcerned to be of that force of 
which indeede it is. But ftrcngth affliftcd, and ftrength 
decayed^ faith afflidcd,and faith bvcr^whelmed are much 
different. 

If 



rvheii m be exerciftd with many & long affltSiiom, 



345 



If want of fpirituall refrerhings doth trouble and 
brecdfcroiiplcinus, we muft remember that Phyfickc 
purgative and reftorative muft not be taken at one and the 
fame time : Toadmitofforrowes,buton condition that 
fpirituall confolation (hould'drowne the feeling there- 
ofjis asit were to wi(li fufferings without fuffermg.When 
God miniftreth for the prefervation or recovery of 
fpirituall health, it is the office of faith to receive the 
potion, and further the kindly working of it ; which 
cannot be done unleffe it give way unto, yea, ftirre up 
4.odly forrow,and wreftle paincfuUy to drive out fuch 
lorruptiens, as God would have removed by them. 
During battell the Souldicr muft cxercife his skill , va- 
lour, and ftrength in repelling, fubduing, and puriumg 
the cnemiejhis re frefhfng comes when the fight 'is 
ended, and the fpoile divided. In the dayes of af- 
fiiiflion faith is confii(5ling with doubts , allurements, 
corruptions which Oiew thcmfelves 5 if we doe not 
feele thofe fwecte comforts of the Spirit, that our foules 
dcfirc , let us waitc with patience, till the vidory be ob- 
tained. , ,. 1 . 

And ifwe would i^irrc up our faith to believe and de- 
pend upon God in the dayes of great tribulations,when all 
ineanesofheIpefaile,we muft 

Firft, Lay open our forrowes before the 3^R c j 
and powrc out our complaint into his bofom«PC<»^^j 
how am I hefet with miferies ? How doe mjf forrowes 
increafe daily? I am the man that have feene affli^ion 
hy 4be rod of thine anger. ThoH hafi brought mee into 
darktieffe ^ but not into light. CMy heart fainteth^ my 
flrength falUth , my sk^nne u made old, mj fght waxeth 
Mmme^and all my bones are out of joynt. Thou hafi hed- 
geh mee about that Icmnot get out , and made my chaine 
heavy. My lovers and my friends fiand aloof e from my 
firoke.andmy nei^hboars fiand afarre off, Bnt they that 
feehe my hurt doe multiply ^ 'they jpcake mtfchievom 
things, and imagine deceit all the day long. J am the re- 

Z ^ preach 



Helps to /Itrre 
up faith in deep 
affiSthnswhen 
a/lmeansfaile, 

I. 
Pfal.y5.». 



Pfal.38. 10. 
Pfal. 2 a. 15. 
Lam.3,7. 



Pfal.38.11. 

prii.ssj. 

Pfal. 3. 1. 



344_ 

Pfal. 25^Jo. 
PIal.zi.6. 
'Pfal.jy.ii. 



Pfal, 4 8.10. 
Plal.88. 14. 
Pfal. lOfli. 
Lam. 3. 44. 



t. 



pfal. 3 8. 18 

Hof 5•I^ 
Plal.40.11. 



Lam. 3. 4 a, 
2 Sam. z^i 
10,17. 

Job.40.4. 
Job 41.^. 

Pfal.49 ?. 



Pfal $1.1. 

Pfal.3f.a7. 

Pfal.$4*'4' 



How to live hj Fmh m time of\^d'verfitie. 



praachsfmetffthf def^ifed ef the people y the fong of the 
Drunkards, Falfewitftejfes are rifen up againji mee^ vcho 
lay to my charge things I never knew , and teare mee in 
pieces with their continnatl jlanders. In mine ahjerfity 
they rejoyce^ they gather themfehes together againfl tnee, 
they revile withoat ceaftng : they open their ntouthes wide 
agaln^ me, anl Jpare not to ^lajpheme thy T^nf?, tAs 
with a [word in my bones mi>}e enemies reproach mee, while 
they fay haily nnto me, where is thy ^od. Lord, all this 
u eome upon me, and yet thouflandeji. afarre off", and hidefl 
thy felfe front my trouble. Icryttnto thee, bat thou hearefi 
not ; thou eoverej} thy felfe with a cloftdthat my prayers 
Jhould not afcend. 

Secondly, Confeffc our finnes with hatred and godly 
forrow. The difquietnefle of my heart, and trouble of 
my flefh' arifeth from my finne : / will therefore declare 
mine ini^tiity , Twill be forty for my fnne : I will ac- 
knowledge my felfe guilty before the Lord. For innttme- 
rable evills have compaj[ed me dbont, mine intcjuities have 
taken hold upon me, fo that I am not able to looks ftp : they 
are more then the hares of my head, therefore my heart fai- 
lethmee. I have finned , and rebelled, and thou hafi not 
pared, Loe , J have finned, I have done wickedly ^ I have 
finned greatly , I have done very foohjhty, "Behold , J am 
vile ^^l^at Jhall I anfwer thee ? I will lay my hand up- 
on m^mouth, I abhorre my felfe, and repent in dufl and 
afhes, 

ThirdIy,Takeup our hearts for halting through un- 
belicfe, and call upon them to reft in the promife of di- 
vine aide^ afliftance, and deliverance, wherefore Jhould I 
feare in the dayes of evilly when the ini^mty of my heeles 
Jhallcompaffe mee about , When the mighty man doth 
boafl himfelfe in mifchiefe f The loving kj^ndnejfe of the 
Lord endureth at all times,- Hee will not forfake his 
Saints aljthbugh they be affii fled for a fcafon, God is my 
refuge , who hath pleafure in the pro^erity of his fef- 
vanti and will draw neere for my deliverance, and make 

hade 



when webe exehijediivilh manj mdlong afflicffor?s, 

hafte for my helpe, when lorrowes environ on every 
fide. When all fuccourfailes, hce careth for my foule : 
When my fpirit is co.itrite, and my heart wirhm me 
defolatc, he is at my right hand to fuftaine , yea , to 
fave my foule. He will hide his mctcifuU- Saint, un- 
till the calamity be over- paft. / am poore and needy , 
yet the Lord thinketh on tnee : I am funke deepe inio 
the mire and clay , but his hand fhall plucke me up. , 
Ihe will fet me before his face for ever. Marvellous' 
I things hath he wrought for his people in former times* 
He turned che Sea into dry land, and made way for them 
through the midft thereof. He led tl;em through fire 
and water, and by a ftreatchcd out arme brought them 
into a wealthy place. Is not our God from Ever- 
lafting, the Holy OnCj the fame for ever? His pow- 
er is infinite , his goodnefle incomprehenfible , his 
love as great towards his Saints now as ever heretofore. 
He will fend downc from heaven to fave m^e, he will de- 
liver me out of many waters. When I am henrimed in 
on every fide, the Lord will provide fomc way for my ef- 
cape : for he can doe more then I am able to conceive or 
thinkc. Thoti who hafi Jhewed mee great and fore tropi~ 
hies ^p7itlt quicken mee againe, and Jh alt bring mee «/> ^- 
gainefrsm the depths of the earth. When I was indbfed 
inthewombe, my diftteffe and d^gcr was ejxat, my 
ftrengrh Weake, my condition hopelcflb ; licfvOTieleffe I 
wasfaved by thy power, and by thy providence was 
brought alive into this world ; andiChould I now doubt 
of thy helpe and mercy, bccaufe in likelihood I cannot fee 
them ? My flejh and my .heftrt faileth: hut Qoi u the 
ftrengtUcfmy heartjandmy ponietn for fber. The depths 
of rnifery are the Lords fitted feafons to refcue his af- 
fii<fled onef.Mercilefle men will fhe w compaffion iii great 
extremity : and (ball not the Lo^d, who is rich in mercy 
and loving kindneffcj extend his' 'favour t'o me when . I znS 
ready fd per tlb f Smelj'hii falvatio^^,^ii^fthem 
feare him. '^ '.ii> '-' ?■- ^-j \ - 

Tourthly, 



345 



Pfdl. Si. 1 1,19 

Pfal. 34.18. 
Pral.J5.i7,i8 

Pfal 40.17. 

pr.il. 41.1a. 



Pfal.77.i4,t f 
Pfa!.65,ii,ia 



Pfal.j7 J. 
Pral.71.iO. 

Pfal.ii.pjio, 
pral.7j.25. 



-C/.Sj.c,. 



Hi 

4. 

pfai.80.7. 

Pral.jj.i6. 



Pfal.i4|.7j8« 
Kal. 55. 2,233. 



Pfal.3f.17. 



Pfal.40.1 1, 
Verfe 1 3. 
Pfal.8e.i4ji5 
Ii5. 



Pfal.8^. 45. 



5. 

Pral.56.45. 

Dan. 1 1. 1. 



i^^«? to live h J Faith in time cf Ad^jerfttf^ 



Fourthlyjmportane the Lord, anddiredl: thy fappli- 
cations before him. In the day of my tronhle Iwrllcaa 
upon thee, for thoH wilt Anjwermte, Heareme fheedih 
OLord ^y Jpirlt f^Heth, hide m.t thy face fom Je\ 
left I be like unto them that goe downe into the pit. Cmfe 
meetoheare thy loving kindne^e inthemormng.forinthee 
doeltrufl "Dehvermefrom mine enemies T I fiie unto 
thee to hide mec. Lord, horp long Tvilt thou looks fipm the 
mfertesofthyfervmt, and kfepe fUnce: refine my fonle 
from the. dejirtimon of the adverfary , n»y darling from 
theLtons: Withhold rot thou thy tender n$ ere ief from 
mee OLord, l^t thy lovirigkindneffe and thy truth cemi. 
nmllyprefervemee. Beple^fed, O Lord, to deliver me: 
OLord, mA^h^n to helpe mee. O God, the proud are'' 
rtfenag^nflme, md the affembliesof violent men have I 
fought after my foule, and h^ve mt fit thee before them 
Butthou, OLord, ma qodfullof compaffion and sra- ' 
ti9H4, Long- fuprtng and plenteous in mercy and truth : o 
turneunto mec^ andhave mercy upon mee , pve thy ftrenfth 
unto thyfervant, and fave the fonne of thy handmaide 
Mow long Lord, wilt thou hide thy filfe for ever ? /ha'u 
thy wrath burne /ike fire? Remember thy former lovine 
kmdneffcs which have beene of old : remember that I am 
but dud, and that my dayes pafTe away like a iliadow- 
remember the reproadi of thy fervant, wherewith lam 
reproacifcd, of them that dwell round about ^ where- 
with the ungodly and prophane have reproached thy pure 
Religion, and blafphcmed thy holy Name. Lord looke 
upon mine afflicftiop, and my tcares : for I am broueht ve- 
ry low. . . * ^ 

Fiftly,QiiickentbyrefoIutionto truft in the Lord, at 
all times, even when all other refuge failetb, and none 
fliewes himfelfe for tby helpe. what time I am in trou« 
ble Iwilltrud in God: for he Oiall rcdeemc my foule 
He IS the God of my falvation , who will fend delive- 
rance to his people in the lowcfl: extremity,, and vouch- 
lafe mercy to his chofen, above all they cxped and iookc 
for. 



frormfes of earthly blepngs, ^c. 



for,mmoft convenient ieafon. I cried unto the Loy^ in 
the day of my calarmty , and my grayer entredtnto hu 
tares : therefore wiU I truft in him as long as 1 live. Lord 
I will waite for thy falvation, eftabliii my heart in thy 
truth, that I be not moved. 



347 



Lam.3.j5,j5. 
57» 



CHAP. VIII. 

9Vhat it is to live hj faith tcHching the fromijes of 
earthly bleffmgs^ tempora/l projfertty, and 
good fucce^e iff the things that 
wegoe ai'Oftto. 

THc Lord our God , knowing that earthty blef- 
fings be {o neceflary for the maintenance of this life, 
that we cannot be without them , hath of his infinite 
bounty and free grace undertaken, and promifed to make 
competent provifion for his children ^ that being freed 
from the cares and troubles of thefc things below, they 
might with greater freed ome attend upon his fervicc, and 
with more chearcfulnefTe run tbe race of Chriftianity. O 
feare. the Lord yee his Saints : for there is no waMt to them 
that feare him^ The yonng Lions doe lacks ^^^^ T^j^^ 
hunger: hut they that fee ks ^^^ Lord Jhalt not want any 
good thing, Trufi in the Lord and doe good , Jo fhalt thou 
dwelt in the land, and verily thmJhaltJ^e fed. 'Delight thy 
felfealfoin the Lord, and hi Jhall give thee the dejires of 
thine heartr. The meeke Jhall inherit the earthy and Pj all 
delight themfelves in the abundance of peace. The meekf 
fjalleate andbefatiified. Forthe LordGod is a funne and 
Ihield : the Lord wiffgive grace and glory : ■ no good thing 
fPitlheypith'haldfrom them that walk£ uprightly. "Slejfed 
is every one thatfeareth the Lord : that walk^th in his waies. 
For thou jbah eate the labour of thy hands y happy fhalt thou 
be, and it JhaU be ivell mth thee, J will abunditntly bleffe 
-A-\., ' her 



Gadhathmade 
manypromifes 
of earthly blef- 

fi%!.' 



Plal. 54.9310. 



P{aL37.j^4. 

Verfe II-. 

Pklzi.z6. 

Pral.57.i9. 

Pfal.84.ii, 



PfJ.it8,i,x. 



?48 

Plal.i3Z.iy. 



^Deut J. 16. 

6.3. & 12.25, 

28. 

Pro.ai.ai. 



Dent. J. 53, 

£xoJ.29.I2. 
DeUt.aj.55, 

Pfal.34.iz,i3 



PlO.J.Ijl. 

V€rfei6. 
Pro. 1 4. 10. 
Pro.9.ii.& 
16.27. 
Pfal.§M5. 
I King, 5. 14. 



|Exod.i5.i6,& 

Deut.7.1 f. 
Pfal.103. 3, 

pro. 3. 7, 8. & 

4. 32. 

Efay 33.15,1^. 



Vcrfc Z4. 
Job. 17.9. 

PfaLap.i I. 
Deut.8.i8. 
Pfal.103.5. 



'what it u to live bj Faith tpuching the 



herfrovijioni ImEfatufieherfosreiivithhead. Seeke jee 
firfi the ktngdojnecfg&d aKdkis righteonfnefe^ and all the fe x 
things fhdll be added unto ym. This is that which is fo oft 
repeated. * Th^t it may goe well with thee in the land^ tvhich 
the Lord thy God five th thee. 

In fpeciall the Lord promifeth length of dayes, Health 

ftrength, wealth, favour, peace, Joy,good fuccefTe,fafety^ 

good Name: andallthcfe not oncly to "the righteous 

themfelvesjbut to their children and pofterity. Tou Jhall 

vfAlke in all the roayes which the Lord jonr god hath com- 

mandsdyoH,th4t ye may live ^nd that it may be well with jou 

& that jMt may prolong jour dayes in the Undivhichyoufhal 

fofejfe. iyhatra4nishetbatdefirethltfe: andloveth many 

dayes y that he may fee good? Keepe thy tongue ff-om evill,and 

thy Itpsfrom^eakingguile, My fonne forget not my law.btit 

let thine heart keepe my Cemmandements-.Tor length of dayes 

And long life and peace Jkaa they adde to thee. Length of dayes 

u in her right hand;^ in her left hmdriches andhonoHr^Bj 

me thy dayes (hall be multiplied,^ theyeares of thy Ufejhalbe 

increafed. With long life wiU Ifatlsfie him ; andjhew him my 

falvationjfthou wilt diligently hearken unto the voice of the 

Lord thy God^andwilt doe that which is right in hisfght^and 

wilt give eare to his CommandementSy and keeps all his 'na- 

tutes, I will put none ofthefe difeafes upon thee^ which I have 

brought upon the Egyptians/i^/- lam the Lfirdthat healeth 

thee, Feare the Lord and depart from evilly ItJhaU be health 

to thy navill, and marrow to thy Irenes. Flee that walketh 

righteoufly, andjpeaketh uprighrly, he that dt(hifeth thegaine 

ofopprefionsythatjhaketh his hands from holding of bribes, 

thatftoppeth his earesfr^m hearing ofhloud, ^ Jhuttejh his 

eyes from feeingeviR'.HeJhaa dwell onhigh, his place of de. 

fence flial hcthe munitions ofrockes.breadjhaR be given him, 

his waters Qidhe fure,^nd the inhabitant foall not fay lam 

ftcke The righteous fhall hold on his way, and he that hath 

sleane hands (hall befironger andftronger.The Lord wiff give 

Slrength unto his people; The Lord will blefe his people with 

pease. It is the L^rdthy God that giveth thee power to get 



frojnfesofexrthlj y'ej^.msj ^c, 

wenlthytbat he rhAj tflablijh his covenant which heo [ware 
unto thy Fathers, Honour the Lord with thy fubftance, 
tindwith theprfi fruits of aU thine increafe : So (hall thy 
barnes be filled tvith plenty ^and thy prejfes fhall hurji out 
with new wine. Riches and honour are vfith mee , yea du- 
rable riches andrighteonfneJfe.My frttite is better thengld^ 
and my revenue then chojcefilver. In the houfe of the righ- 
teomismuchtreafure, JSlejJedis the w4» that feareth the 
Lord that delighteth greatly in his Commandentents. Wealth 
and richc s fl;all be in his houfe : and his rightesfifkejfe endu- 
rethfor ever. If thou returne to the Almighty ^tkou /halt be 
built upytheufhali ftit aT»ay inicjuity far from thy tabernacles: 
Then fh alt thou lay up gold as dufi, and the gold of Ophyr 
I as the flonet of brosk'iS : yea, the tAlmi^hty fIjaH bee 
I thy deft nce^ and th 9H fh alt have plenty of Jilver. ^nd god 
is able to mal^ a fl grace abound towards yoUy that yee , a/- 
Tcvayes having all fuffciency in aU things ^may abound to every 
goodworke. With <iH thy getting get underfianding: exalt 
her ^ and fhee fhall promote thee y fheejhall bring thee to ho- 
nour, when thou doeft^ embrace her. Shee fhall give to thine 
heai an ornament of grace ^ a erowne of glory fhall fhee dc" 
liver to thee, Sofhalt thoufinde favour, and good underjlan 
ding in the Jight of God and wan. Then /halt thou walke in 
thewayfafely.and thy foote fliall not fumble. JVho fa 
bearkeneth Unto mee fhall drveli fafely, and fhall bee efuiet 
^omfeareofevill. Becaufe thou hafl made the Lord^ 
which is my refuge ^ even the mofl; high, thy habitation. 
There fhall noe vill befall thee, neither fhall any plague come 
nigh thy dwe Ring. Thtujhaltbehidfromthefcourge of the 
fOftgue ; neither /halt thou be afraid of deBru^i ion when it 
tommeth. At def^rtiSiion and famine fhalt thou laugh, nei- 
ther fhalt thou be afraid 9f the beafts of the earth. And Twill 
give peace in the land^^ ye fhall lie downe ^ none Jhall make 
you afraid. For thou fhalt be in league with the ^ ones of the 
field: andrhe beafts of the fieUpjall bee at peace with thee, 
when a mans wayes pi safe the Lord , he makfth even 
his enemies to bee at feace with him. Them that honour 

me^\ 



3^9 



Pro. 5.9,10, 
M^lj.io. 



Pro.8.i8,i9, 



Pro. I f . 6, 



[er.ji.T*. 
z Cor.9.8,5^. 



Pro. 4. 8, J. 



Pro. 5 4. 
Vcrfc ij. 
Pro. I J J. 



Plal.^i.^, 10. 



Job.5.ZT,12. 

Uv.i6 &, 

Job.f.ij. 

Pro. 1 6,6, 
I Sam.x 3 o. 



350 



Pro, 3. 3?. 
Pro. 1 0.7, 
Pfal.ii2.e. 
Pro. 15.18. 
•Pro. 10. 6. 
Pfal.irj. 
bpfal.iiz.1,1. 



Pfal.if.iijTj 
Pro, 1J.21. 



Pro. 14. 20. 

Pro.20.7. 
Job.y.aj. 



PT/'rf? ?> ^ /<? Ihe hy Faith tGuching the 



It ii ntcejfzry 
to believe thofe 
promises. 
I. 
Hcb.13 ^ 



me ^ I mil honour, Andheejhall bring forth thy rhhteottf- 
nejfeas the light , and thj judgement as the noone day. 
The wife Jh^ll inherit glory. This memory of the lufi is 
b/ejfed^^ the righteous Jhall be in everUJiing remembrance. 
Heethatregardeth reproofe fhall be honoured, a 'Blejfings 
are upon the head of the lufi \ and 7i>hatfoever hee doth 
Jhallprofper. ^ "Blefsd is the mm that feareth the Lerdy 
O'C, hii feede^all be mighty tifoti earth , the generation 
ef the upright [h:ill be bleffed, fVhatwanis hee that feareth 
the Lord ? himfljall he teach in the way that heejhall thufe, 
Hisfoule fhall drveli at eafe , and his feed.e Jhatl inker ite 
the earth. Though hand joyne in handy the wicked jhall 
not beunpunijhe&l^ but the fede ef the rightcoHt fhaU bee 
delivered. In the fe are of the Lord, is firer.g confidence: 
andhis children fiaH have a place of refuge. The lufl 
manwalkethinhi6 integrity: his children are b/efed af- 
ter him. Thefe and fuch like be the proirjifes concerning 
temporallbkliingSj which God of his infinite grace and 
love hath made to the faithfiill and their pofterity, that 
we might live by faith, quietly fubmitting our ielves to 
the good pleafure of God in thefe things, and cxpeding 
from him in due feafon fuch reliefe as {hall be moft expe- 
dient. 

This is necefTary ; for faith in thefe promiies doth kill 
covetous defires, diftrufttuil and diftrading, cares. Let 
joHrconverfatien bse without covetoufne^e j and bee content 
with fuch things as yee have. For he hathfaid, I will ne- 
ver leave thee, nor for fake thee, Man is privy to his want 
j of earthly bkffings , and will never ceale , with ex- 
ceilive care, diligence , and vexation to hunt after tliem, 
till he come to know that God will provide for him. 
When one hath great friends, which they are knowne to 
leaneupon, wenay of them. Such necde take no care, 
they know fuch and fuch will fee to them. On the con- 
trary, come to one who knowes no endoftoyling and 
caring,aske him, why will you thus tyre your felfe out.? 
He will anfvver, I muft needs doe it, I have none but my 

felfe 



frotnlfes of earthly blepngSy (^c, 

felfctotruftto. SoChrift followeth his Dirciples care- 
fulnefic to this doore, their unbeliefe, which did not let 
them confider our heavenly Father cared for them. No 
prefent eftate, f though never fo great) can free the heart 
from diftradion, becaui^itis fubjc(5l to decay and vanifh: 
we {hall never call the burden of care off our owne jElioul- 
ders, till we learne by faith to caft it upon the Lord, whofe 
eye is over us for good. 

■ He will never renounce camallfupports, who makes 
not God the rtay of his foule for outward things. He will 
truft in the abundance of his riches, wifdorae, friends, or 
! ftrcngthjthat makes not God his flrength. The heart of 
j man, being privy to his inability to fuftaine himfelfe, if he 
benotunderfet, willfeekeoutfome propj true or falfe, 
found or rotten, to leane unto. They will goe downe to 
ex^j-jf;?? for helpe, and ftay on horfes, and truft in Chari- 
ots, becaufe they are many^ and in horfemen,becaufe they 
are very flrong, who looke not to the holy one of IJraell, 
feeke not the Lord. 

Bcliefe in God brings good fucceflb. The Lord will be 
intreated to {howre his bleffings plentifully upon themj 
that put their truft in him. Believe in the Lord jour Cod^fo 
PMllyee he efidblijhed-.believe his Prophets fo (halje prober. 
Men are afhamed to falfifie the truft that is repofed in 
them : And (hall the Lord fruftrate the defire of them, 
that hope in his mercy. 

If we cleave not to the promifes of God made con- 
cerning tcmporall things , we fhal) adhere to the pro- 
mifes of hfe with le£^ affurance. Both promifes flow 
from one fountaine, even Gods everlafting love, are fta- 
blifhed in the fame mediatour ; and received by the fame 
j faith : yea the promifes of life everlafting (as more fpiri- 
j tuall and furtheft removed from fence) are in themfelves 
i more difficult to be believed : fo that cur afTurance of 
them cannot be greater, then is our confidence in Goi 
for the other which concerne this life, Co farre- as he feeth 
it to be for our goodj and the glory of his great namC; 

if 






I Pet J.J. 



2. 



I^il. J1.7. 






3. 

2 Clii'O.io 20. 
I Chro.f.20 
iChro, i5.7jS 



% Coi. 1. 10, 



353 



Pral.ii6,ii. 



Marke xo. 14. 

Pro. 10 ly. 

Pfal.6x 10. 

' Pre,30,8j9. 



Thegtilyare 
allowed t« live 
hyfuithin tou- 
ehingthefe pro- 
mfei. 

I. 
Rom. 8.51. 
Efay 7.1 V. 



What it Is to live by Faith tMchin?^ the 

if we be inftrufled , cxercifcd , and aflaulted in both 
alike. 

Chriftians are oft aflaulted touching thcfe promifes,and 
many vertuous and godly men, not duly confidering and 
embracing tbem by fai h, arc much perplexed in chem- 
fclves.//«^<j»» mj hafi{{z\dDAvid\y\\cx\hc Red from Saul 
and his heart began to faint) all men Are lyars ; even the 
prophetsjwho told me I fliQuld be king,have deceived me. 
Diftruft in the temporall promifes of God, hath driven 
the faithful! to many hard,c^angeroas fhifts, and becne the 
occaOon of divers (lips and fome.dangerous falls. The ex- 
amples o^Ahaham,^ avid, zpA many others, together 
with daily experience in all places, doe fufticiently teftifie 
thus much. 

Faith fvveetenech and fan<5lifieth unto us the ufe of all 
outward comforts under our hands. Meate, apparcll, ri- 
ches, honours (though lawfully campafled and in abun- 
dance pofleffed) yeeld but a fowre talt in comparifon, are 
but offmall profit, when they be not ufed in faith. Nay, 
bleffings, not received and ufed in faith, become Idols, or 
occaiions of Idolatrie : for either we truft in them, or be 
lifted up in our felves by reafon of them. The rich mans 
wcAlth fi hu flrongCity \ he re/oyceth in his riches, and 
hath in his thoughts to doc great matters by them.(7<f r me 
neither poverty nor riches, fetde me withfaode convenient for 
me : LeH I be fnlly And denie thee, and pij^y rpho is the 
Lord, 

The godly are allowed to live by faith touching thefe 
tcmporall promifes, and the fandified ufe of Gods blef- 
fings which they enj oy . For feeing God hath given Chrift 
for us, as the Apoftle reafoneth : how fhall he not with 
him alfo freely give us all things.He hath given his Sonne, 
the fonntainc ofall good things ; what is it then, that he 
will denie unto us ? The promife of Chrift before his in- 
carnation was to the lewes a fealc of all tcmporall good 
things promifed.But we know God hath given his Sonne, 
not onely to be borne, but to die for us : which is an un- 
doubted j 



fromfes iff earthly blefjtngs,d)ic. 



doubted token, that he will denic us nothing that may be 
for our good and comfort. 

The Lord by covenant hath promifed to furnifh 
his people with all need full bleflings pertaining to this 
life, ^ee that fcAttfreth Ifracl ypttl gather him, and keefe 
him Oi ajheapheard doth hisflecke. For the Lord hath re- 
deemed Jacob, and ranfomed him from the hand of him 
that ypAS jironger then hee. Therefore they Jhallcome and 
fing in the height of 2 ion, and Jhall flifv together to the 
goodne^e of the Lord, for vfheaty and for wine, andforoyle, 
andfor theyoting of thefiocke^ and of the herd : their fottie 
fhall bee as a watered garden, and they Jhall notforrow any 
more at all. ^^nd I rvill fatiate the foule of the prtefti 
with fat nejfe, and my people fhall bee fatufied with good- 
neffe, faith the Lord. I willmaks "^ifh them a covenant of 
peace, and wis cattfe the ev'tll beafis to ceafe out of the Land : 
and they fhall dwell fafely in the wildernefe andjleepe in the 
woods, ^nd I w'lU make them, and the places round about 
my hill a bleffingy and I will caufe the fhowre to come 
dewne in hufeafon : there Jhall bee fhowre s of blef^ng. And 
the tree of the field fhall yeeld herfruite, and the earth fhall 
ye eld her increafe, and they fhall bee fafe in their landy 
and fhall kpow that /am the Lord : I will call for come, 
Andinereafe itj and lay no famine upon you. And I will mul- 
tiply the fruit of the tree, and the increafe of the field '^ that ye 
fhall no more receive reproach of famine among the heathen, 
I win even betroth thee Unto me infaithfulnejfe, and thou 
fhalt know the Lord, And it fhall come to p^Jfe, in that day I 
will heare, faith the Lord, Twill heare the heavens, and they 
fhaH heare the earth, and the earth fhaU heare the come, 
and the wine, and the oyle. Now feeing the Lord bath 
by promifc and covenant, againe and againe repeated for 
our confirmation, arfured us of all necdfull bleflings, it 
is our duty by faith to make thcfe promifes our ownc, and 
reft cjuietly upon his word, to finde relicfc at fuch time, 
and in fuch meafure, as he knowcs to be expedient, and 
may be for our good. 

A a And 



555 



3. 



ler.ji. 10,11, 

12.. 



Verfe 



14. 



E2ek.34.2y, 



& 34.29. 



Hor.t.2*isi. 



354 



I Pet 4-1 9' 

I Pet.f.7, 

Verfc 1 4. 



Mat»^.3i,52,. 



Pfal. 104.27. 
Pfal.145.15rj 
16. 

Pfal.i47.». 
lQb.j8,4i. 
Mlatth.6.»^. 



Dent 32,9. 
ter.io.i6.& 



Whaf it is to Uve hj Paith tOHching the 

And this wc luaj? the. rather be incouraged into, 
con{iderit)g the relation which. is bet v/ixt God and us: 
for he is our:T«iichfjjU creator, rwee the workc of his 
harids I hcc is our Shcpheard.,^ wee the flocke ok his 
pafture : he is our Father, vvehis children. Let them 
thAt piffer according to the wM.pf Gody commit the 
ks^ping of their foulcs^-.fQ J.nin iyi,weU-doingy as unto 
afahhffi/l Cre^tdjir , ,: Cajt yJl yfim cavr-C u^o-n him^ far 
j hee careth for yon, \ Xh: \Lord is my jhcepheard, I jhall 
I not want, ^s ajheepheardfeekethont his flocke in the day, 
that hee is among his Jheefe that are fcattered: fo rviH I 
feeke out my fheepe/ and will deliver them out of all 
places y -where they have beenefcatteredy in the cloudy and 
dar^e day, ^nd I will bring them out from the pcopky 
and gather them fom the countries^ and will bring them 
to their owne landf and feede therA upon the mount aines 
of Ilrael by the rivers y and in all the inhabited places of 
the country I will ftede them in a good paflure and upon 
the high mo(*nf aines of lixacl Jhall their fold be ; there jhall 
they lie in a good f eld, and m^ fat pafture Jlj^ill they feed 
upon the mountaines of Ifracl. Take no. thought^ faying ^ 
what jhaH we eate ? orwhat fjall we drinks ■ or wherewith 
Jhall we be clothed ? for your heavenly Father kitoweth 
that jee hatie neede of all thefs. things, ^ Gog is the great 
Father of the family, who provideth all things necelTary 
for them that be under bis governement. The eyes of all 
waite upon thee ^ thou give ji them their me ate in duefeafon. 
Thou op^nej} thine hand, andfatisfieflthe dejire of every li- 
ving thing. He giveth to the beafi hisfoodyan^to the young 
ravens which cry. It is his property, who is the chicrc 
good, to communicate hisbleHings unto his creatures : 
much more to compaffe them with mercy that depend up . 
on him. He hath put this naturall afFedion into Parents, 
nay, into bruitc; beafts to tender their young ones : & (liall 
not he much more provide for them that crie unto him 
day and night for reliefe and fuccour ? The Lords portion, 
is his people j Jacob is the lot of his inherUmce t and God 

is 



fromifes ofemhlfhleffhgsMc^ 



is the portion of his people 3 He hath chofen them, and 
they have given themfelves to him : they relie upon 
him, and he hath undertaken to make plentiful! prbvifion 
for them. The Lord is my portion, faith wy feuh^ therefor s 
will I hope in him, The^Lord-k the fonion-'ef mine inheri- 
tancej andofmyctip ; thoti maintaiyte^ my lot. The Itnes 
\ arefdkn unto mee in pleafant fUces : jea, 1 hmie'a^goedlj 
\ heritage, ^■"' '-^^^^ ' ^^ / ^' -r- ''^''^V^!" ^ K ^ 

The Lord by hls-^ :%efciall provideltc§r^J^I^i^^^that 
pro^erous unto the righWcu's "wh.ich thfey pbl^eflej be it 
little or mu.th. There is nothing better for a man, t\\tr\y that 
hejhoHldeate ^nd drinke dndthat kcjhouldmdke his foute eri' 
joy good ifJ his labour^ This alfo Ifaw, that it VJ3iS-fiomthe 
; hayii fifGod.And thisgift the Lord freely gives to the liiahj 
"whcmx!:ied(j.th approve •.Z'<? the man that is'^good hi-hi^' fight 
\ God^lveth Tvlfdome^ dndh^oyvledge'^ and Uyl' ("t'd "Wit) to 
■ gather and.ule earthly bleffings with delight and comfort. 
The revenues of the righteous are fmall many times, but 
their ft'atc is comfortable : fcr the iittk tlmt t-hc right^om 
wa?ihnih,if better then much riches ofmany'^wd mighty'w'iri'- 
W(7i7d'/,W'ho flsw in #ealth,and excell in ^owtti Better 
is ft little with thefeare of the Lord then great treaftire^ and 
trouble therewith t Better is a dinner of her be s where love is^ 
then a'ftalleiOxe^^and hatred therewith .Godgivett^his belo- ■ 
'oed fieepei Ajid it is the blejfing of God whichmak^th rich, 
andheaddethnofirrowwithit, ' •' -■ ''^< ; 

The patient expeflation of the Saints hath confirmed 
this, that God will not be wanting to his children in 
things of this life, fo farre as may be for their fpirituall 
welfare : Thave beenefMn^^and now am old^yethave J not 
feene the righteous forj^f^^nor his feed^be^gincr bread. Hee 
is ever mercifall and lemeth, an^ his feed isblejfed. The 
children of the needic Ihall be fuccoured in due fcafon, 
for God, who knoweth their wants, is faithfall tapcr- 
forhac promife. ' '- '■ :':~^ ^} -'(^n^-/. . a:>' .."^^.-^ 

The A^s of faith in rcfpedl'of thcfe promifes- and bl^- 
iingsare. 

A a 2 Firft, 



3iS$^ 



Lam 



5.7-4. 



Pfal.x6.j,6. 



Ecclef.2,24, 



Verfe zQ, 






Prai.Si7.2. 
i?ro.|o.22. 



4. 



P1^1.37.2f,af' 



The alJs effaiiB^ 
in rcjpe£l of\ 
thfepromifesA 



55<5 



whitt it is ulive by Faith tmching the 



Efay.|©.7. 



Firftjit prefcrveth from the ufc of all unlawful! mcanes, 
knowing that nothing can profper, which God approves 
not. The Egyptian yZ'/i// heipe in vaine^ and to no parpofe; 
\ therefore have I eryed concerning this. Their ftrength is 
j t9 fit Bill, when Ephraim farv his ficknep^ anci Judah 
Hofca.j.13.14 faw his wound : then went Ephraim ^0 the AfTyrian, 
andfeht to King Jareb ; yet could hee not heale you, nor 
cure pH of your wound. If a man be foundly perfwaded, 
that the blcfllng of God is all in all, he will ply that fare 
firfl: J and not undertake any thing, till he fee God wit- 
nelling unto him by his Spirits that he will be with him 
tobleffehim : which he cannot hope for, if the meancs 
ufed to compare and fecure any blefling or good thing, 
be indired and finfuU. Nay, to hope for blefled and good 
lucccflc in an cvill courfe is palpable and grofle Idolatry: 
what is it but really to acknowledge the Divcll ( whofe 
diredion thou followed for advantage} to be the Govcr- 
nourofthc world, and the difpofer of earthly things? 
then which nothing is more oppofite to lively faith. Faith 
fpcakcth on this wife, 'Better is a little with righteoHf' 
nefe, then great revenues without right • more comfor- 
table inrefpedl of in ward peace,tbe prefcnt ufc of this life, 
and continuance ; which maketh the Believer confult 
, what is /uft,not what is gainful!, or profitable ; what may 
be compaffed by honeft courfes, not what may be gained 
by fraud, deceit, coozenage, or other carnall dealing. A- 
gaine, faith taketh diredion of God in his word in all bu- 
finefles, being affured that his counfell onely is firme and 
ftable, and that courlc profperous, which is confonant to 
his revealed will . There arc mmy^devic^s in 4 mms heart, 
nevertheleffe the counfell ofth^^ Z^d, that /hall fiand. The 
Lordhingeth the counfell of the Heathen to naught: he ma- 
keth the devices of the people of none ejfeB. The counfell of 
the Lordfiandeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all 
generations. Carnall policies are difappointed, and 
Gounfels broken, but the diredion ©f the Lord it fball 
profper, 

Secondly, 



Pro»i5.8, 



Pro.i9.il. 
Pfal.jj.io, 



fromifesofemhlj Ueffittgs.^c, 



Secondly, Faith is pain ull, provident, and frugall, 
though not diftruftfuU, pinching, or niggardly. It (hakes 
oft idlencfle, obfervcs Gods providence, takes the oppor- 
tunity, husbands thriftily what he beftoweth, andordc- 
reth all a^ires with difcrction. He that refts moft confi- 
dent upon Gods blcfling for all good things of this life, 
will be moft diligent to fcek them by lavvfall meanes,and 
carefnll to prefer ve what the bountifuU hand of Godfhall 
minifter unto him. He that is filent,expcd;ing Gods helpe 
when mcanes faile,cannot fit ftill when meanes be at'hand, 
nor lavifli indilcrectly when his cup runneth over.Labour 
and providence be impoled of Godjwhereunto faith doth 
as freely fubmit it felfejCven wl'icn Gods blcflings do flow 
in abundantly, as it doth heartily wifh and exped fupply 
from God in the time of need. 

Thirdly, It maketh inquiry into the heart, turncth 
from evill, and feeketh the face of God earneftly. Con- 
fidence in God breeds fuf pition of our felvcs, left any fin 
(hould harbour fccretly in our bofome, or corruption get 
head to hinder profpcrity : fpeciallyifGod blcffeusnot 
according to promife, the firft workcoffaithistoran- 
fackcand fanne the foule narrowly, to find out and re- 
move whatfoever doth offend. I thought on my waj/esi 
andtHrned mjfeet unto thy tefiimonks, 'Before I was af~ 
fiiBed Ivfffftt afiray ; bnt now J have kfpf thy word. The 
counfell of Flephaz. to lo^ was good, if he had rightly 
applied it ; ^.Acquaint now thyfelfe with him, and bee at 
peAce ; thereby good Jhall fome unto thee. Receive , I pray 
thee, the law from his month, andlaynphi^ words in thine 
heart. If thou returne tc the ayflmlghtj ^thtfU Jhah be hmlt 
up, thoHjhalt put away iniqmtyfA-^i from thyTabemaeles, 
This found advice fairh digcfteth, and with muchferi- 
oufnelTe doth early with the whole heart- feeke the Lord, 
excrcife it felfe in the v^orftiip of God ^^ibourcth the re- 
formation of what is amiffe,and compcieth it felfe wholy 
to the prefcript rule of his Word. By faith we know., 
God will draw nigh unto us, if wc draw nigh to him ; 

Aa5 he 



557 



2. 



Pral.iip.y^. 
Vcrfe 6j. 



Iam.4.8,iO' 



I I Chi-o.4.io. 



Geri'z8.so,»5 



B 5 ^ I ^^^^ ^^ ^ ^^ ^^'^^ ^fFmth tGU'chmg the 

I he will lift \x% up,if we humble our lelves in his fight j and 

j if God lift us up, it {hall goe well; ifhebe wichus, we 

Jfhall want nothing which may be for our good. This is 

the way of Faith, which cleavcthunto the Lord, andjiee- 

' i keth the accoinplifhmcnt ot his promifes, as -God hath 

j promifed to fulfill them. 
4. I Fourthly, It PciTeth up to pray without diftrulfuU, 

I fruitieffe, excelTivc care : It comtnitteth the cauie unto 
i Godi and makes fupplication to the Almighty. Oh that 
thou'vpcttldefi ble^e me indeed, and inlarge my coaji, and 
that thy hand might bee with mee, an^ that thou vpouldefi 
keepe mee from eviU that it may not grieve mee, if God 
roillbee with mse^ an:l yviii kee'pe me in this vpay that I (roe, 
and will give mee bread to eate^ and raiment to put on : 
So that I come againe to my Fathers houfe in peace, the» 
fhali the Lord be my God, It is the exhortation oiT^aptl, 
Phil.416. Bee carefull for nothing, but in every thingby prayer and 

fupplication with thankll'iving^ let your requefls be maie 
knowne »nto God. Now faith turneth precepts into pray- 
ers, and maketh requeft according to the will of God. 
Whi3t God requires, that faith petitioneth for,and in fuch 
manner. 

Fiftly, It feeth riches in God, fubniitteth tohis wife- 
dome, refteth in his love, and fo maintaincth a Chriftian 
in fome -meafure of coritentment. By .faith we fo em race 
the Lord, as that,in him wefeekeandfecwhatfoeveris 
neceffary to falvation, and pofleffe him as the portion of 
our lot and inheritance, who will keepebackenvthing 
from us, but what is hurtfull and pernicious. It Icaneth 
upon the everlafting providence of God, andpromifeth 
prefent fuccour and fupply from him, as in wifedomebe 
pfal iS.t, I knoweth beft, and of grace hath promifed. I havefet the 
Ffal.73.i3. { Lord alwajes before mee: that is, I conftantlyleaneupon 
; the aide of God, and am faftened to his providence, be- 
\ ing confident, that when neceflity doth urge, hee will be 
I at hand to fuftaine my ioule,to miniftsr unto my neccflity, 
powerfully to aflift and comfort. 
:^ ' Sixtly, 



fnmifesef earthly blefJiftgs^Bic. 



55f 



' Sixtljfi Tn profpdit'y it kcepes^ the heart in an holy tem- 
per a nd difpofition ♦, (fiil. ) in humih'ty and meekneffe, 
free from carnall confidence and pride; and in tenderneffe 
and cdrfpalTion towards them that be in mifcry,cfpecially 
the Ghlipch, if fhc be in beavineffe. For the bleflings of 
GodjCmbraced by faith, fet an impreflion upon the fonle, 
anfwerabletotbofe properties in him from whence they 
flow. What he gives in grace doth workc the heart to 
humility and tender commiferation. Faith hath learned | Pral.<<2.n. 
I that power is of God, and that all his gifts are freely be- 
ftowed of mercy, without dcfert ; but mercy received 
doth both humble and mollifie the heart. The godly man 
having obtained mercy and grace from God, is againe ho- pral,86.i, 
ly,piousjkind and mercifull to others.It is the commande- 
nient of God, Thou peak hot mak^firong thy heart^norjhm Deut. i <,y^ 
fip the bowels of companion f'om thy needle brother:'But CVCV' 
more the frame of a believing heart is correfpondcnt to 
the will and plealure of God : for faith fets the ftampc 
and Image ofGod upon the foule, ' 

Moreover, itdifpofeih the heart to thankfulnefle and 
obedience : for it prefervethfpirltuallemptineffe, which 
givctb a fweetrcHifh to the mercies of God : and exclu- 
ding all boaftiirg in our felves, ftiTreth up to glory in the 
Lord, and willingly to devote our felves unto his fer vice,? 
from whom we have received whatfoevcr we en/oy. 
What Jhall Ircncler unto the Lord for all hii mercies towards I Pfal.ii^.JSjXj 
mee ? I will take the cht> offahation and call ttpon the Name 
of the Lord. Men looke for thankes forafmall kind- 
neflej for a tolcen, a dinner- if they write but a letter, 
fpeakc a word, take a. Journey in our behalfe : Faith 
rcades the name of God in all his mercies, and ferioufly 
calleth them to remembrance, what then can it doe Icfle 
then magnifie the name of God for all his goodnefle ? 
The mercies of God toa believing heart, are as manure 
jt9 Ibund and good foyle,which maketh it more fertile.Sa- 
than himfelfe will confefle, that God is Ipecially to be 
fervcd in the daycs of prbfpcrity, for when God asked 

A a 4 him, 



3^0 



Pfal.116.5, 



A^s.f.^x. 



Pfal.jj.i5. 



8. 



what it Is t0 live hy Fdth touching the 

bim, Hafi thou ctnfiieredmy fervant Job, 4 jftji msm^r^c. 
He rcpUcth, ^oth ^(hfeare God far naught ? Hafi thou 
not mftde an hedgt about htm ? and faith doth both re- 
member man of his duty, and pcrfwadc him to be fo 
much the more fcrviceable and obcdicnt,as the mercies of 
God are powred upon him more plentifully. Iwill rvafl^ 
hefore the Lord in the land of the living. When the 
Churches had reft throughout all /We-^i, and Galileey and 
Samaria, they were edified ^ andwalJ^ftginthefeareofthe 
L*rdy and in the comfort of the Holy Ghop, were mftltiplted. 
Seventhly, It pra} eth as earneftly for the fandification 
of profperity, and Gods bl effing upon the meanes, as for 
the meanes thcmlelves if they were wandng. The more 
we profper,the more earncft be the prayers of faith. For 
of our felves we have no power to wield agoodeftate 
well : nor ability to preferve and kcepe it. An high eftate 
is fubjecfl: to many ftormes and tenipcfts : in greatcfl: eafe 
we lie open to mpft temptations. In the hot Summer 
men quickly catcjrcold : $c if we pray not earneftly when 
we profper in the world, we (hall coole in grace. Earth- 
ly bleffings be fo fraile, and we ofour felves fo weak e, 
that the more we have,the more we ft and in :eed of Gods 
gratious affiftance and fupport. The Creatures thcm- 
, felves have no power to hclpe, can profit n thing unleflc 
God put forth his hand to blefle them for our ufe This 
makes that the requefts of faith be not formall and per- 
fundorie, but efFedluall, fervent, arifing from a true con- 
fideration of the wcaknefle and impotencie of the crea- 
ture to fuftainc and uphold us. And thus to live by faith 
in the abundance of all things makes way for patience, 
contentednefle, found peace in the depth of mifery,when 
we be left naked and dcftitute of all humane aide. For if 
when we enjoy meanes, we leane not upon them, but up- 
on the Lord ; when they are taken away, we fhall not fall, 
our ftay remaining. \ ." i. ]y - j; 

Eightly, It makes beavcnly-mindcd intheufcand pof- 

feffion of a profperous eftate. As it receivcth all earthly 

^^ blclfings 



fromifes ofemhly bleffings^B>:c, 



tdeflings from God, as pledges of his fpeciali lf>ue, and 
pare of their childes portion : fo it windcth afid puIlQrh 
up the foulc to God againc, Looke what love-tokens are 
to linke the hearts ot welwillers, and bring them toge- 
ther,or to pre£ervc,renew jand incrcafe afFc<f?:ion amongft 
friends ; fuch force have the good things df this Hfe to \ih 
up the believing heart to commune with the Lord. And 
fure, profperitie is the fitted feafon for heavenly contem- 
plation : the leffetrdoble lieth upon our ftatc, the more 
liberty we have with freedome to thinke upon iuch things 
as concerne our eternall inheritance. Befides, faith can- 
not favour earthly bleflings, unlefle it taftc his love, and 
feed upon his goodnefle in them. If being invited to a 
Nobhmans Table, he be pleafed to carve a bit upon our 
Trencher, that is better then all the feaft. The love of 
God, giving us earthly things to enjoy, is that which gi- 
veth them the beft reliOi. And if we taftc the fweetncffc 
of bis loving kindneffe in thtfe things, we cannot but 
dtfire, and long to be rcfreOicd with fiiller communion 
with him. 

Ninthly, Faith breeds godly jealoufie and fufpition, 
left the heart ftiould be drawnc away with the pleafing 
delights of things tranfitorie. Tor by grace we are made 
conlcious of our ownc weakcnefle, and of the fnarethat [ 
is in every creature to take and intanglc ns. Prolperiry is j 
pleafing,but dangerous. Children quickly furfet on fweet 
meats ; Coozening companions give flattering fpecches. 
Long peace begets idleneffe : Povertie is more fertile of 
men: plentieofriot,nicene{fe, cafe, and fuch like. Elu- 
ftering windes cannot pull the cbake from the traveller^ 
who cans it oft' in the heate of the Sunne. We have ex- 
amples of many great worthies, who have caught much 
hurt in profperity, Re[J hath efeminatcd many Cap- 
taines, who could i: ever be cru{shcd or overcome with the 
terrours of warrci Soft fands fwallo w more ftiips,; then 
hard rockcs fplit afunder. This niakcf the waking belie- 
ver circumfpeft to examine his heart, and watch over it, 

how 



361 



S6z 



what it iste live by F mhtouchinz, the 



lob. 3. 



pro 



7.1 z. 



10, 



bow h.Qpcrforjnfes holy (iaties,how heentertaines'fe&Iy 
thoughts, how his sffedioBs move cowards that which is 
above, left he {hould mifcarrie upon the fands. j 

Tenthly, It mindeth us of our change, even when our , 
mountaine feemeth ftrongeft. The thing that I greatly \ 
feared f laid lok ) U Qome Hfonmeey end that. which I was | 
afi-aid of is came unto mee. I fvai not in fafetjy neither 
hadlreji, neither had I quiet : I alwaycs thought upon 
my change, and looked for an alteration of mine eftate. 
The longcft day hath night at length entring : yea, there r 
is no winde which may not bio w raine, if God be fo pica- ! 
fed. Eftstes whichfeavethe longeft periods of profpe- [ 
rity, be at length excrcifed with afili(5tions ; and ther^ \ 
is no condition fo iiire and peaceable, but may rurne | 
tempcftious on the fuddcn, fhould not God be more | 
gratious. This being in it felfc apparant, and confir- { 
med by infinite examples, cannot be hid from the pier- \ 
cing eye of faitfe, which is; fpiritually wife to difcerhe i 
aforehand, what events wc ace fub/eft unto in this vale j 
of teares. Nature by inftindl giveth untounreafonable 
Creatures a facultie, which maketh them afore-hand | 
apprehenfive of that which is ready to enfuc : The wife- i 
dome which is from abdve, maketh the Lords children , 
fenfiblc in like kinde, that as Ithy fo they,in t heir greatcft ' 
calme forefeehow Gods hand may change for thdr ex- 
ercife. .;i>iaiifiD • 

Nor doth faith onely forcfee danger ,but prepare for it. 
The wife manfeeth the -plague and bideth himfetfe, The be- 
liever hath learned by duecontideration,how wanting he 
is in wifedome,and weakc in ftrength toftand when God 
trieth j and fo. renouncing his wit and ftrength, he fiieth 
unto God, and holdeth him, as he who hathbeenc, is, and 
muft be for ever his falvation ; and looketh unto Chrift 
' the Author and finiiher of our faith, who hath received 
commandement of the Father, that he fhould not oncIy 
call us, and bring us into the ftatc of grace,but alfo raifc us 
Hp at the laft day j who is that great God and Saviour,who 

will 



fromfes ofe/trtbly .hlefflngs^BitC: 



will keepe his from every evill workc unto his heavenly 
kingdomc. 

This matter may be cxepplified in feme particular, 
fcil. how \yc are to. live by faith in the ufe of mcate and 

;drinke, ■ '. :::,■':;<■..;. .«./.'.: 

Firft.By faith we learne out of the Word of God^^who 
have lonne-like iiitcr-eft and title unto the crcatures^what 
creatures are fanflified unto our ufe, and how each man 
muft {an<5lifie tlicm unto himfelfe by a reverent and holy 
ufe. As that thf perfpn imiitbe in covenant, refting.upon 
Chrifl: for falvation, and giving himfelfe unto the iludie, 
andfinc-cre unpartiall pradlife of holinefic ; the food muft 
be lawfully gotten, provided with wife refpedl of our 
pliceand meanes, without diftracling care, orexquifitc 
curiofityand niccneffej received with thanksgiving, as 
from Gods band, and ufed as in his fight and prefence,fbr 
iuch Qnds and purpofes as he hath appointed. 

Secondlyjt receiveth them not as the fruit of cur fore- 
.caft J labour, or defert,but as gifts of * Gods bounty,yea,as 
gifts 0^^ the gratious covenant, proceeding from the free 
love of God. For in the covenant ofgvace God profnifctfa 
not onely to write his law In our hearts, and- to forgive 
our fins, butalfoto conferretemporall blelTings, as they 
fhall he ferviceabie to us in our journey towards Heaven. 
Men that make a great purchafe^ dcfirc to hay e f ome part 
m prefent poffe^pn : apd our gratious Gpd,making pro- 
mife of eternall happinefie, doth give earthly blelfings in 
hand, as pertaining to that heavenly pofl eflion, which we 
fliall enjoy hercafter-Now as God gives temporall things 
to his people in covenant, fudoth faith receive them as 
tokens of fpcciall good-will and favour in Jefus Ghrift,in 
and through whom of free grace, f on ne-like right and 
title to the creatures isreftored, which by fin ne and difo- 
bedience was forfeited. And thefe confiderations ftrike 
the heart with revcrence,infiame it with love,andraifc an 
holy regard and care not to abufe this grant of mercy, 
breeds an acknowledgement of our unworthineflc of any 
. mercy.} 



^^. 



H91V 1 6 lively 

ia-th ittthevfe 
of meat e and 
dn'nlie. " * 

I. 

iTira.4.4,5. 



Titiis.i.i J. 
2. Theffj.!!. 



3. 

Prafao4.3i. 
^& K4?.iy. 

HoC2.s8,i9. 
£zek.57.i4,25 



H.:b.3.i.&2,M 



3^4 



what it istd live by Faith teuchini^ the 



Gcn,ja.io 

Dcut.8.3. 
Match.4.4. 

P£al.i«4.i$ 



Hof.4.10. 

Micli.6, 143I5 
Pfal.xo5.i 5. 



iTitn.4.4. 



Beyi annot. 
maj9r.in i.Tim 

4.5- 

Hofea. 2,9. 



Calvin,in Pfal 

8.Verfe.8 

hBtlkr.ihii. 



mercy, admiration of Gods provifion, and contentation 
with the lead: blefling ot God, 

Thirdly, By faith wc are taught, that man liveth not by 
bread only , but by the providence of God,and his blefling 
upon his ov/n ordinance,. It is not the nature of the thing it 
felfe {imply to nourifli ; if Gods blefling be not upon it^it 
can afford no rerrefhing.Breadftrengthensjwine comforts 
the heart by his ordinance and application of them to that 
ufe : but the blefling is not in the creature, it comes from 
above. Bread nouridieth when it is Gods hand or meancs 
I to confer ftrength and vigour : but if he plucke away his 
hand, it is but a dea^^e nut. Thou maift eate, and not be fiU 
■ led ; drinkc, and not be fatisfied. Thus it is noted of the 
Ifraelites, The Lord fed them with Msnna, but fent lean- 
ncfl^e into their ftules. 

This perfwafionjfinking dccpe into the believing heart, 
takcthit off the creature, and lifteth it unto the Lord in 
earneft and pertinent prayer, that he would of his grace 
vouchsafe unto us> as leave to ufe his creatures, fo his blef^ 
fing upon them,that the food we receive may do us good, 
we feeling the nourifhingvertue thereof, and that with 
J ay and cheercfulneflc. The prayer of faith,for Gods blef- 
fing upon the creatures, when they are fet before us.fliould 
be no lefle earnefl:,then for the mercies themfelves if wan- 
ting. For there is no more poflibility in meate of it felfe to 
nourifli without Gods blefling, then it is for man to live 
without meate. 

Fourthly, It teachcth to be heavenly-min'3c(^jlabouring 
to taftc Gods goodneflc, anc^ feele his gratif^us prefcnce 
with our fpirits at our fweetelt fea'^s. And this k ^he beft 
fawce to all meates, which riveth ttethe dsindeft reUifli. ^ 
When wc fit downe to meate, we come to a lively Ser- 
mon of Gods bounty and love : for the bread we feed up- * 
on is not ours, but the Lords, all the provifion are gifts of 
his mercy in Jelii > Chrift. And the more fenfible the crca- 
^ tures arcjthe more pleafant and delightfomc to our palate; | 
the more fiiould we be affcd:ed with the fenfe of Gods 
love and favoar. Fiftly, ' 



fromifes of earthly HeJ]l»gs^^c, 



3^5 



Fiftly, Faith workcth the heart to fobricty and mode- 
ration, watchfulneffc, and fearc left it fhould be enfnared 
and drawnc away with thefc delights. To fobricty in af- 
feding, and in ufing earthly things ; To fobricty in 
thought, that we fufter not the mind to be taken up with 
cogitations, what we {hall eate next, how we may grati- 
fic the palate ; Sobriety in defire, that we long not after 
dainty raeate; for fuch longing effeminates the minde,en- 
genders and ^czds pafTion, and makes way to hardnefle of 
heart ; Sobriety in receiving them, for the flrengthening 
of nature, and not to the dulling of our fpirits. 

For faith raifeth the heart to more fpiritua/1 delights, 
and guardeth the appetite, that it range not immoderately 
after fenfuall things. The word of grace teacheth to live 
foberly, and faith receiving this word workcth fobrietie 
in earthly things, refrefliing the foulc with fpirituall 
fwcetnefleSj and watching againft intemperate chcri- 
fhings, that they winne not ground. As a man, that hath 
tooke in the tafte of the bell creatures, cannot forth-with 
feed on that which is courfe,meanc,no way to be compa- 
red • fo a Chriftian, who by faith hath tafted the love of 
God, which is better then winejthc comforts of the word, 
which are fweetcr then honey to the mouth,he cannot af- 
fe(ft Cas fometimes before he did) thofe fenfuall delights, 
which carnall men (who know no better) follow with 
greedinefTc.If earthly delights creepe upon us,it is bccaufe 
the cxercifc of faith is negledled,which muft confcionably 
be renewed againc. 

Moreover,a Chriftian believer comes to his Table with 
an holy Jealoufie, remembring that a fnare is laid for him 
in every creature. Sathan is a cunning fowler, who hath 
his baits laid Secretly to catch us, where we leaft fufped. 
The Snake lurketh in thefaireft grade : and the moft dan- 
gerous grins are fet in our lawfnll liberties. And through 
neglcd to keepe up our watch,thefe oft take,when others j 
milTc. Moreperifti through the abufe of things lawfuil, 
then by the pra(aifc of what is fimply unlawful!. They 

arc 



Titus. 



2. 1 I. 



Cant. 1,2. 
Pfal. ii9.7t_, 

lOJ. 

Pfal.j^^. 

Jer.?i.i4. 
Piai.63.3,5. 



lude Vetfe 1 1.\ 



•iSb.i.f* 



Whktit istQlive hj Faith touching the 



Pf0.2|.Ijt,3. 



6. 

Deut»8.io. 
I Tim.4.4. 



are fpots in cbe feafts of Cbarkicjwho feed without fcarc 1 
Eating, drinking, building, matter of marriage,the world 
fliall b^drowned inthefe, when Cbritt comes to Judge- j 
tnent. How ix^ny times do tlie befi: offend in lawful! ' 
things ? The pleafurcpjWe take in thefc thingSjhow irifcn- 
fibly doth it ftcale the heart away from fpirituall delights? 
how doth it indifpofc the frame of the fou'e to heavenly 
cxcrcifes ? how doth it cherifh wrath, and fcfter unbrid- 
led paflioas ? Dainty meatcs are very dangerous and dc- 
ceitfull : for the fenfible delight they gjve, whereby the 
appetite is inordinately moved after them, doth prefle 
dovv^nethe foulc, that it cannot mount aloft in fpirituall 
contemplation : Thefe evils faith doth wifely forcfee and 
watch to prevent. 

Sixtly, It lifteth up the foule in thankefgiving. Our 
Saviour bleffed the Table as well by praifing God for his 
mercyj as by prayer for a blcffing. The creatures are not 
ours, but the Lords ; we mufl: not meddle with them be- 
I fore we have craved leave ; and when we have made ufe 
of them for fupply of our ncceflity, we rnuft not forget to 
j returne praife. If men borrow oughc of their neighbour, 
when they bring it home,they forget not to give thankcs. 
j Great is the mifery of man if he want thefe outward 
comforts : and the greater our mifery withour them, the 
more incomprebenfible is the Lords mercy in Supplying 
our neeeflities. The providence of God in miniftring dai- 
ly food is no lefle wonderful!, then was his feeding of j 
Ifr^el in the wilderneffe with Manna and Quailes from \ 
Hcaventfor as we are not fed as they were/o are wp pre- 
ferved from their neccflitj/. That the earth fhould yceld 
her increafe for our daily fuftenance, fb as we fecle no ex- 
tremity , is i t not as great a blcfling, as to be fupplied from 
Heaven,when we are broughtinto diftrefle ? who would 
i not chule rather never to be ficke,then to recover by mira- 
cle? what man would not rather enjoy the conftant bene- 
fit of eye-fighr, then to be reftored after long blindnefle ? 
Befides, they be not {imply favours which for the prcfent 

fuftainc 1 



fromifes of earthly hlef/t/j^s^Scc, 



IH 



ruftainenatur(^, butcthcy are focnc finall pittance of our 
, childs portion,pa wnes of our heavenly inheritance : which 
doth addc much unto their fweetnes. If friends be abfent, 
a letter, a token ferves much to maintaine lo'?e and kind- 
nefle: nowthefe be fomeof thofe love- tokens, which 
our heavenly Father fendeth unto us, that he might draw 
our love unto him. 

' Seventhly, Faith is frugall> companionate, induftrious. 
After wc have beenc refrefhed, itfufFers nottheraeate, 
which remaineth, to be loft, but referveth it for good ufe. 
At greater feafts it is mindfullofthe poorc ; at ordinane 
meales it remembers the affiidion of lofcphy regardeth 
the worke of the Lord, and confidereth the operation of 
his hands. For the mercies of God, received by faith,dbb 
leave an imprcflion of his mercy upon thefoule: andfo 
our compaflion towards others is increafcd as the mercies 
of God are multiplied upon us. Daily refreftiing renueth 
the continuall remembrance of our infirmities, and beget- 
tetb a lively fenfe of the mifcries of them that want and 
ftand in neede. And when vigour of Minde and body is re- 
paired,it Ictteth us about the worke and bufinefTejWhcrc- 
unto wc arc appointed of God. God gives none food to 
live idle. Men looke for worke from them to whom they 
give meate,drinke,and wages : and fhall not we labour in 
the worke of God,who live daily on his allowance. - 



CHAP. IX. 

fVbat it U to live by faith touching the Common k- 

msntt : which God hath given for dire^ion 

efoHr lives J according to which 

Vfie ought to rpalke. 

IN the word oi grace the Lord calletfi for'univei'fall;vo- 
luntary,(incere,uniforme,conftant obeditnce •, and pro- 
mifeth both to inable his Children to doe wliatisplca- 

- fi"S> 



■ 7v 

lohn.ft.ia. 






f.tilrfi.. 



36S 



TheL&rdcaUi '. 
[or willing^ [ 
chearejuU^vni' \ 
'verfM^vnf dined 
conjiant obedi- i 
cnce. 

Gen; 17. 1 i 
Exod.ip. J. 

Deut.5.»9-ci ' 
6.a. " j 

Deut.6. J 7. I 



Deut.23.i. 



Io£h.i».f.& 
13.8 & 24.14 



; 



Pfal. 10^.5, 

Luk.i.74,7T- 
Pro.13.17. 






what it is to live bj Fdth touching the 

fing, and to accept of their willing, though weakc fer- 
vicc. The firft of thele branches is apparant and well 
Jctiownc to them that be any whit exercifed in the word ; 
the fecond hath beene proved at large already : neverthc- 
leffe that u eakc Chriftians might have in readincffe fomc 
grounds of faith in thefe particulars, it will not be fuper- 
fiuous to point to fome paflages of Scripture where they 
may fee them confirmed. That Chriftians are bound to 
ferve God willingly and chcarefiilly without con- 
ftraint, univerfallyinholineflTeandrighteoufnefle, unfai- 
nedly as in his fight^all the dayes of their life, conPtantly m 
all eftates unto the end, thefe few texts may befufficitnc 
to prove. I am the Almighty God, tvalkf before me, and bee 
thpHperfeEi, If ye yo'tll sbey my voice indsed^ anikee^emy 
covenant^ thenyeejhall be a peculiar treafure unto mee above 
aUpeeple. O that there werefuch an heart in thetn^hat they 
rponld fears me, and keepe my commandements aiwayes, that 
it might be well with them, and with their children for ever. 
Tati Jha'd diligently keepe the Commaadements of the Lord 
your God.JfthoH fkalt he arhen diligently unto thevoiceofthe 
Lard thy God, to obferve and to doe all hu Qommandiments \ 
which I commani thee this day, the Lord thy God wiSfet 
thee on high above all the nations of the earth. Take diligent 
heede, to ao the ccmmandement andthe law, which Mofes-^^^ 
fervant of the Lord charged yoH, to love the Lord your God, 
and to walki i^ alhis waies,andto k^epe his (^ommandements , 
and to cleave unto him, and to ferve him with all your hearty 
and with allyourfoule.Blefedzxz diey that keepe judgement^ 
and he that dothjaflice at aH times. To this end are we de- 
livered out of the hands of our enemies, that wee might 
ferve him without fear e, in holineffe Oftdrighteoufnejfe before 
him all the dajes of our life. Be thou in thefeare of the Lord 
all the day long. 

And looke what fervicc the Lord doth expeft and call 
for,that he will enable his people in covenant to performe, 
what man is he thatfeareth the Lord,him wiH. he teach in the 
way that he Jball chufe. The Lord thy God will circumcife 

thine 



Commandementsi^c, 



^klnc heart:, and the heart efthyfiedc'y (ft lo'i'e the Lord, thy 

God with aUthj heart and wit h allthyfoulq^ that thou maiH 

■live, Mttdthotijhalt return e^ and obey the vQjce of the' Lor d^ 

i -d- doje^aRhiscommandsments vehichlcpmmand thee thii day. 

j4nd Itvill give them an heart fo kffovo me^tkat lam the 

Lord^ a>idtheyJh(iUbemypopie,ahdIwill ife their G&d-^ 

f&r they Jhjtlireturne unto me with. their tvhole heart., j^ndl 

■pcill pftt a netvfpirit' within you , and I will take the flony 

heart out of their fie/h ^ and rviligive them an heart ofjie/h. 

IwiSfave them out of their dvoeBng f laces , vpherein they 

have finned^ and will cleanfe them , Jo fiall they bee my 

•people^ and I will be their Go I, And David my fervant 

Jiall be kj»g over them, and they fitall all have one Jljeep- 

iheaxd: they fhall alfo walks i» «?/ judgmentf, and ob- 

\ferve myjlatutes and dee them. In that day fing yee unto 

'-her. A -vineyard of red wine. I the Lord doe ki^pe it, 

-and will water it every moment : le/l any hurt it, Twill l^efe 

it night and day . Surely (hall one fay , In. the Lord h3.ve J 

right eoufne^e and Hrength^Thofe that be planted in the houfe 

of the Lordy^allflourifhin the courts of our God. Tkey fl?4ll 

.fiillbrtn^fofthfrnite in old age ; they l^jallbefatandpmri' 

fhing, Sinne fhall not have dominion over yoH^ Now ^ we are 

delivered from the law^that being deadwherlnwe were held, 

thatwefljouldferve in newjtes of Spirit, and not in oldnes of 

the letter, ./ can doe aU things thrtugh Ghrifi whithfirengf 

thenethme, «'•'*■' l '..;'•'■ ■ 

The obedience of the faithfuli,which tbrough the pofw- 
ct of grace they performers weake & iinperFe(5t,but plca- 
fing and acceptable unto God. TheLordtakethpleafure in 
them that fear e him:in thofe that hope in his mercy, The- Lord 
.taketh pleafure in his people : he will be auiifieth^ mee^e with 
falvation.Jn every nationhe thatfearetk God and workfth 
'righteoufneejfe,is accepted of him. Thc'Lotdby Afofes did 
often times tell his peoplcthat they oflPering up their facri- 
fices, fuchas he commanded, they ftiould be accepted : 
which is often repeated by the Vvo^hzts.Thou-fhdtt make a 
flate of pure gold^ and grave upor.itMVQ thee^grAvings of a ' 
~ ' B b Jfgft^fi 



3^^ 



Verfc 8. 
Jer.24.7. 



^^^^.it-HiH- 



irayi7.£,j. 



Hay 4 J. 24.^, 
Pfal.pz. 1^,14; 

Rom. ^.14. 
Rom. 7.6. 

Phii.4:i3. " 'i 

The, €hrij}iani 
ohediente u im- 
perfeSi,butf lea- 
fing. 

Pro. 12.11, I 
Pfal.i47.11. ■ 
Pfal. 149,4.,! 

Lerit 1.3,4, ' 
& zz.ti.Sc zj. 



3T 



Efay <o.7. 



so.40,4»« 
Mal.3.4. 

Pfal.51.i9. 

Pfal.i9.r4. 

Pfalii©. 108. 
Deut.35.1i. 



what it isto live h-j Fahh mchmg the 



Rom.ii.T. 



Phil,4.i 



Hcb.iJ. i6» 



Col.j.io. 
HcKii.5. 



TiUthiitteeeJpi- 
ry to the lea- 
ding (fa Chri- 
ftim life. 



fignet , HoUnefe , t9 the Lord ; anditlhaRke upon Aarons 
fere hedd^t hat Aaron way he are the iniquity of the holy things 
which the children ef\bzz\\JhaU baSow,in all their holy gifts 
audit fiaU he alwayes upon hisforehead,that they may he ac- 
cefted before the Lord. AUthefiofkj of Kedur Jhall he gathered 
together.^ the Rams of '^cbnioth /hak minifier unto thee : they 
Jhaltcome ftp with acceptance on mine altar. The Priejfs Jhall 
Tftakeyour burnt o^erings ftpon the altar , and yo(*r fe ace offe-, 
rings, and I vptH accept y off ^piith the Lord (jodj'henfhali the 
offerings of Judah <«W Jerufalem befleafant nnto the Lord, 
as in the dayes of ol^^and as informer yeares. Then Jhalt thou 
he pleajsdfcith the facrifices of right eoufnes^rvit h burnt offer- 
ing, and whole burnt offering. Hereunto may be referred 
the pra\ cr of the Prophet. Let the words of my momh, and 
the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy fight, O Lord 
my firength and my redeenjcr. Accept I hefeech thee, thefree^ 
wi^ offerings of my month, O Lord, and teach me thy ludge- 
meMts,Thcvc be many other teftimonics to the fame pur- 
pofe. I hefeech you therefore brethren, by the mercies of(jod^ 
that yeeprefent your bodies a livingfderifce holy, acceftabU 
untfi God. Iamfull,havi);}g received of Epaphroditus the 
things which were itntfrom yott,an odour ofafrfeetefmell, 
a facrifice accept able ^wel-pleaftngto Cjod,Bnt to doe good, 
and to communicate forget not i for withfuchfacrifces God is 
wellpleafcd* Tee alfo, as lively ft ones, are built upa^irituaU 
houfe^an holy Friefthood,to offer up ^irituattfacrifice, accept 
table to God by Jefm Chrifi, Children obey your pa- 
rents in all things, for this if well pleajtng. Before his tran- 
Jlation 'Enoch, had rccdved this tefitmony, that he pleafed 

God, . yvUr^: 

And this' faith is mod neceflary to the leading of a 
Chriftian life,/c;7. to adhere and fticke faft anto the com- 
mandcments, reft apoii God for ability to doe what he rc- 
qaircth,and that he will accept whatfincere and unfained 
lervice, though weake and imperfeftj is tendred unto his 
Highneffe, v'. ^ ;-: , rr .:. r,! 

For the word of grace , which comraandeth t6 believe 

the 



Commandements, &c. 



the free mercy of the Lord to the pardon oFGnnc,tcachctb 
us to deny ungodlitteffe andworldly Iftfis, And to live godly ^ 
jftfily andffiherly in this -pre fen t evill world. Such as give up 
their names to Chrift, muft not looke to be lawleife ; but 
they come to take a yoake upon them, and ftand obliged 
to fulfill the law of Chrift* called the new Comman- 
dement. 

Want of believing the precepts is the caufe^why many 
doc ftill continue in the praclife of divers things inconve- 
nient, and fuffcr inordinate paflions to hoW them under. 
Ignorance or carelefncfle in this point , is the caufc why 
fome of the better fort of people are ofi:*and on, now for- 
ward then backward, fcarce fetled or flayed at any time : 
not knowing how to fct upon the praiflife of repentance; 
how to begin or to proccede therein : Whereas this faith 
much availeth to the furthering of the deare Children of 
God in a godly courfe, the fhunning of evill, and the pra- 
ftice of holineflfe. 

True faith is an obfequious confidence, which carrieth 
a man whitherfoever he fliall fee the Lord to goc before 
him. By faith H!r»tfc^ walked with God; ?<(jAh buWdcd 
an Arke ; v^haham offered up his fonne Ifaac : Mofes re- 
fufed to be called the fon o^PharAohs daughter. Our pre- 
fent faith or truft in God is but eommenfurable to our fide- 
h'ty in his Commandements : ere we can make a faithfull 
plea for mercy, Gods will neglefled muft be executed,ei- 
ther in a<fljf the ob/edl be prefent.and may be profecuted; 
or in fincere and conftant refolution,if abilities and oppor- 
ttinities,required to execution of what we refolve upon, 
be altogether wanting, or our cndeavotirs upon inevitable 
occasions hindred.Faith workcth by love, which conftrai- 
neth men to doe the will of God , and fubmit themfelves 
to his holy ComnTandements. The ftrength of faith to it 
ieverall objcfts is uniforme,that aflurancc of forgivencfle 
cannot be greater then care of obedience. The very con- 
fcioufncffc of any one finne , whereunto we have beene 
indulgent, will be oflike force to withdraw our affent 

B b 2 from 



371 



Tit.a.t 1,1 a. 



Joh.13.54. 



Heb.ii.f,7,S, 
9jio. &c. 



Gal.j.^. 



372 



what it is'UU've bfFmth.tmckng the 



from Gods mercy, aS th^ delight or pieafure of-^bat 
fcnfuall obje^was tocaufeus to tranrgreflc anypan of his 
will revealed. The lame ftrength, beauty had to allure un- 
to adultery 3 will that foule finne , unrepented of,havc to 
divorce our fcules from Chrift.Nor can we faile in pra- 
diceofthisorotherGoirjmandcaiehtSjwithdut a precedent 
defccl of that faith , which onely can firmely unite us unto 
Chrift : whereby like wife were itfinne it (blfe,we ihould 
aOent unto every precept of God as much better then any 
incompatible good. - v 

That acl: cannot pleafe God ; which is not animated''by 
faith ; for it is but the naked carkafl'e of a good worked 
without life or foulcjif that be wanting. It is faith, v^hich 
impellethto worke rigbteoufncfle, and putteth life and 
vigour into the worke wrought : fo that the bcfl; workes 
of the regenerate be dullaiid live'effcjit faith be dor nriant> 
and put not forth it felfc for a time. 

And when a-Chriftianknowes not, whether he {hall 
have ftrength to doe what God requireth ; nor whether 
God hath given him any promife, tl at his burden {kail be 
made light, and that Chriit will bearc the greateft part of 
it for him;it muft needs be very tedious and trcublefome; 
it will occafion riiany f cares and doubts, deadnefle, and , 
unchearef ulrtefie. This killeth tlie h^art of right good 
Chriftian'-, when they are ignoraiu:, or nor throughly 
informed, that God will make them able and fit for fp 
great a worke, as the lead ing of a godly life. But if they 
havte this faith as a foundation to uphold them, they 
fhallfoonerwade through their doubts , andgtow oiit 
of their feares , as knowing that God will bfe ever with 
them for their affiftance. Wlio doth not know, that 
when fome certainty of falvation is obtained, yet for 
allthat, iriafmuchasit is but wc-ake', they have many 
heart-griefes for tbis,tbat they fee they have a: wearifome 
pilgrimage to goc thbrdW , and little knov\ ledge anjd 
perfwafion of any greatguiding of them through all the 
I l^earesanddifficulticsof it? A Ghrlftian that hath this 1 
Ut-.vil ; : • confidence! 



Commandements, drc. 



373 



confidence, that God will ftrcpgtbcnbim to every good 
woikejhcfliali goe about it with heart and cbearcfulnesj 
he fliall be encouraged to pray as his ncceffity fhall give 
caufc ; he {ball be kept from fainting and difmaiedncffe, 
when his ftrengtb is^not very great ; and rile up againe 
when he is fallcn.But if he be not well grounded in belie- 
ving, that God will build him up more ftrongly from day 
to day, and perfed the good worke in him which is be- 
gun, he fhall very much ftagger and goe backe. If a chiefe 
& maine poft in a building be wanting, will not the whole 
houfe be foone (liakenjfo if a Chriftian,who muft reformc 
his life, goe about it, not refting upon the grace of God in 
Chrift to be made able, he may be fare he fliall want a 
maine helpe hereto, even that which may fliake all that 
is fet up. 

Sundry true-hearted Chriftians, very Confcionable in 
their converfation , be yet much difcouraged by reafon of 
the infirmirics of their bcft duties, and have little com- 
fort in any thing they doe, becaufc they queftion what ac- 
ceptance their poorc fcrvicehath with God. And though 
they defire to pleafe him, willing in all things to live ho- 
tieftly ; yet tlill looking upon their frailties, they hardly 
admit any comfort, becaufe they come fo farre (hort of 
what is required. Whereas, if they were well inftrudled 
and afliired of this, that although, by reafon of thcirxor- 
ruption dwelling in them, they can never offer up any fa- 
crifice to God without blemilli and fpot (for which God 
mightre/efl:all,which they offer unto him) yet offering 
them up in the Name of Chrift they (hall be accepted and 
rewarded ; this would put life and courage intothcm,and 
make them performe all holy duties with more cheare- 
f ulnefle and conftancy, to the glory of God, the comfort 
of their foules, and the good encourage aient of others. 
Confidence in God to be accepted, what tedious difputcs 
would it remove? What temptations would it cut off? 
Whatdifcouragemcnts would it trample under fecte? 
W hat ftrcngth, vigour, refolution and fbrwardnefTe in 
B b 3 wcl-doing 



Heb.13.18. 



374 



Chifiianf are 
aUdived to be- 
lieve thit God 

I roillcr.ahleto 

\ obedience. 
Jer.53.59j 40. 



Rom.S, 14. 

Verfe 2. 



Exod.4. iz. 



I Ghi-o.a8.z©. 
Jo{h.i.9. 



|^^4^ it is to live b.j Faith touch f^g the 

wcl-doing would it noari(h and conferve ? The fliarpeft 
fpvirrc to incite unto, and encourage to goe forward in 
the workes oiholineiTc , is affi^mccol favourable accep- 
tation. ' . :-'nVA ; .. ■ -^i ;. 

Every Chriftian is allowed to believe , that God will 
ftrengtben him by his grace to waike in obedience , and 
make him able, through the hearing of the Scnp:ures, to 
caftoffhisoU converfation. Por God hach promifed m 
Covenant, that he will reach them the way that they fhall 
chure,§uide them with his cye,and put his fearc into their 
hearts, that they fl-jall not depart from his Commande- 
ments.The Spirit ofgraceis promifed, and given to all 
true and unfained Believers , to leade them into all truth 
andholinefle. As many as be the children of God, they 
are led by the Spirit of God ; and the law of the Spirit of 
life, in Jefus Chrift , hath freed them from the law of (in 
and death. 

The Lord, wh:nhe fendeth forth his fervants upon any 
meffage or bufineflc, doth evermore promife, to be with 
them, to aide and aflift them in the" execution of ix» 
Thus the Lord promifed to Mofes , igoe, and I will be vptth 
thy mouth, andteAch thee rohat thoajhaltfaj. Thus cur Sa- 
viour to his Difciplcs, Loe^ T am with yen alwayes , even to 
ithee)tdofthewor/d. And thus D<iW encouraged his Son 
Salomon^ ^eflrong and of good conrage, and doe itifeare not 
n'Y hedifmaied^for the LordGodjCVCn mj God.v^Wi be mth 
I thee • he will not f die thee nor for Jake thee^ uttttli thou hafi 
fni/hed aU the work^for the fervice of the houfe. of the 
Lord, and the fame promifc belongeth to them , that 
yeeld obedience to his Commandements ; for the wprkc 
is his, and he will not faile nor forfake themjthat fet their 
hearts and fbules to feekehim , and doc the thing that is 
good iu his fight. 

\Vhat£oever the Saints have and may bcgge m prayer, 
according to the will and pleafure of God,they are allow- 
1 cd to believe that they fhall obtainc it,and be anfwcred m 
their requefts with favourable acceptation,fQ farreas fhall 
- , . be 



1 



C omman dement Sy ^c. 



be for their good, and the glory of God : But the fcrvant^ 
j ,of God have and doe:begge grace to bring forth fruits 
worthy repentance and amendment of life. / voillrunthe 
race sfthy CommanekmcntSy when thou Jhalt ifilarge mine 
heart. Teach me the way of thy fiat mes , Lord^anll fhali 
kee^eit unto the end, C^fakf ms to goe in the paths of thy 
CommandemcntSyfor therein doe I delight, Teach mee thy 
roAjiO Lord,ImJivi>alheinthy truth: finite my heart to 
feare thy Name, Leads me in thy truth, and teach me : for 
thoH art the Godofmyfalvatier^ on thee doe I tvaite all the 
day. Holdup my goings in thy paths that myfoetHepsflip ?i&t. 
Teach me thy ivay, O Lordy and leadme in a plaine path l>e- 
caufe of mine cnenties. 

The faithfiill have bound themfelves, by covenant and 
oath, to keepe the righteous judgements of the Lord. / 
havefrvorne^C^ I reiH performe it ,that Iwill keepe thy righte- 
ous judgements. But they came not to this covenant and 
oath, a^ trufting in their owre ftrength, but in afltirance of 
divine ailiftancc ; as the Prophet prayeth , / mil keepe thy 
iiatuteSy Of or fake me not utterly. Incline my heart nnto thy 
teflimonies^andnottocovetoufne^e, Ordermy fieps in thy 
tverdy and let not any iniquity have dominion over me, Afake 
thy face to fhine upon thy fervant , and teach mee thy fla- 
tutes, -Adrim^ 

God will pcrfe(5l: the faving worke, which heliatlfi be- 
gun in any of his children: for the gifts that flow from 
his etcrnall and free graceare without repentance. God, 
who calleth us according to his purpofe, is faithfull, who 
will alfo confirme us unto the end, that we may be blame- 
leffe in the day of the Jiord Jefus Chrift. 7<««/ faith, he li- 
ved by faith in the Sonne of God , Ijy whom he was 
ftrcngthened with ability to performe whatfocverwas re- 
quired of him.Not withftanding all the hope of helpe that 
-he had, yet he complaineth of the rebellion of his flefli, 
which did mightily refift the Spirit in him : But ftillhc 
-Was confident in the promifc of God,that he fliould be de- 
livered from every cvill worke , and prefer ved unto the' 
^ B b 4 hea-\ 



37S 



PraI.Si9.}2jj3 

Vetfe I J. 
Pf2i.86. II. 



Pral.af.y. 
Pfal.i7.y. 

PIal.17. II. 



i King. 23. 3. 
I'fal. 1 19,106. 

Nehei«.iai.a9, 



Pfal.iip.g. 
Verfe 36. 
Verfe, ij^j 
Verfe j 3 jr. 



1 Cor. 1. 8,9. 

Phi (.J. 6. 

2 Theil.j. 24, 

G3I.2.20. 

Phil. 4. 1 1. 



Rom. 7, 1$, 



aTim.4.18, 



37^ 



^{istf faith 
touehing obedi' 
ence Tcquired, 
I. 



Pfal. 11^.97. 
98,99. 

Pfal.u9.14* 



2. 
1 1 Joh. 5. 4. 



Phil. 3.5. 



Matth.13.44. 



what itistoUvt by Fdth touehmg the 

^avcnly kingdomc. Now in all this T««»/had no peculiar 
prerogative above other Chriftians :buc what he cxpcdcd 
from God, they may all hope for. 

The adls of faith touching that obedience, which wc 
owe unto God in Chrift, are thefe or the like. 

Firft, It makes a man wife to difccrne what is lawhill, 
good, and feafonablc, both in rcfped: of the worke , the 
meanes,and circumftances of ir.'i><«^'f^3f faith, he was wifer 
then his Enemies , then bis Teachers , then the Anci- 
ent : and he renders the caufe thereof, from the worke of 
his faith; for thy rcfti monies are (fz^^rr rvith me^ they are 
mj meditation y2X\d the«s^« of mj counfell with whom I 
advife. 

Secondly , Itcurbes and bridles inordinate pa(fions» 
and overcomes all impediments, temptations, difficulties 
and allurements to the contrary. Tkis u the vi^oYj 
T»herehj tvee overcome the voorld ^ even our faith. For faith 
being wel-rooted , pofi'cffing the heart, and having its 
force united by clofe rcpofall therein, commands every 
delight, affedion or pleafure of our foulcs, and breakes 
the violence of every inclination contrary to fuch motion 
I as it fuggefts ; feeing no hopes can be equall to the reward 
I which it propofeth to the conlUnt and rcfolute, no feares 
comparable to the terrors which it reprefents to the neg- 
ligent or flothfull followers of fuch courfes as it pre- 
fcribes. 

What? that faith fets an incftimable price upon the 
pearle of the Gofpell, accounting all other things as droffe 
and dung in comparifon ; which caufeth a free and advi* 
fed renouncing of allintereft in the world, the fleftj, and 
all their appurtenances, for afliirancc of it , with as great 
willingncflfe as good hasbands forfake bafe teneroents,and 
hard-rented leafcs, to compafTe fome goodly royalty and 
large poffeilions , offered them more then halfe for no- 
thing. 

Againe, faith fightcth againft temptations and inticc- 
ments untofinne'by the power of Chrift, which cannot be 

van- 



Common dements-, (^c. 



vanquilhed. Sathan and the world are too ftrong for us, 
ftanding in our owne might : but by the grace of God, 
leaning upon his power, we reraainc invincible. -The 
ftrengthofnauirc is corrupt, feeble, and defiled through 
finnc^and therefore the truth which it taketh hold of, it 
hathnotefiR'rtuallj'. But faith hath joyned with it the 
in{l-)iration of Gcd, and the power of the holy Ghoft, 
and th-reforeit taketb hold- of the truth cfe(5tually. 
Wherefore this difference is not in the truth it felfe, 
but in the meane and inftrument whereby we cm- 
brace it. Hereof it comraeth, that by faith we are 
changed , but in the other cafe we remaine the felfe- 
fame that we were before, A clcarc teftimony of 
this we have in the Gofpell. Chrift fet forth to the 
young-man , what he fhould doe to obtaine falvation ; 
but when he heard, be was not perf waded to obey » but 
went away forrowfull. Contrariwife Matthev?^ fo foone 
as he was called, embraced the fame with To great faith, 
that he left his money and Cuftomer-flnip , and 
ftraight-way followed Chrift. And ZAcheta when he 
had heard of the Lord, that he would turne in unto him, 
he not only received him into his houfe with a glad heart, 
but alfo offered immediatly to diftribnte halfe bis goods 
to the poore and to reftorc foure-fold,if he had defrauded 
any man. 

Indeed paflions are not fo bridled, nor corruptions fo 
killed that they doc not ftirrc,& rcfift the worke of faith : 
But the force and power of them is fo farre fnbducd, t'^at 
they fliall not raignc,or hale us ordinarily to that which is 
cvill. Whatfoever inordinatencflTe faith can efpicit doth 
prefcntlycondemncbcforethe throne of grace, and en- 
deavour the killing of it hy the power and efficacy of 
ChriRs death, which it doth happily effect in mcafure, 
and by degrees* Haft thou then becne long kept under of 
fbmc violent paffion, ftrong corriiprion, or cuftomary 
vice, againft which thou haft rcfolved and refolvcd, but 
not prevailed or gotten vidory ? Get thee to Chrift, and 
by 



377 



Matth.ig. 
Luke ip. 8 



22. 



378 



a ret I 

X John 



4. 
4.4- 



Wh^ii istolivthj Faith touching the 



by faith thou fhalc draw vertue from him to care thy, k- 
firmities. Dietothyfclfe,renounce:tl~c broken reed of 
thine owne free-will, which hath fo often deceived thee: 
and put all thy truftin the grace of Chrift, and it will cru- 
cifietheold man^ and give him his deaths wound. Be 
weakc in thy felfe, and Ctrong ixi the .Lord, and through 
faith thou rhalt be nx)re then conquerour. Digge up the 
fallow ground of thy heart, that the word of the King- 
dome may take deeper roote in ir,raife thy foule to an ho- 
ly admiration of the promifes of life , ftirre up thy felfe to 
cleave and adhere firmely to the grace of God:as faith in- 
creafcth , the power of corruption will languilh and dc- 
creafe. Admirable is the efficacy of faith we 11 planted in ■ 
the heart, it cafteth downe I'trong holds,and brings every 
imagination into fub/edion. 

Thirdly, It inableth to obey : for it purifieth the heart, 
feafoneth every faculty of foule rcafona:bleand fenfuall, 
qualifieth and.tlrengtheneth our naturall inclinations to 
good , and altcreth the taftc of every appetite. By faith 
wearepartakersof the divine >rature : by faith Chrift 
dwelleth in our hearts : by faith we receive the Spirit of 
I promife, who is greater then he that is in the world : No 
marvelltheujifthat be fwecteand delightful! to the be- 
lieving heart, which istedious and irkefome to the unrc- 
generate. How came T>avidto that highdelight in Gods 
fervice,that hclovedthccommandementsofGod more 
then thoufandsofgold and filver, the honey and the ho- 
ney combe? That he rofe at, mid-night to meditate in 
thfm, was it rot by faith P'The grace of Chrift, the 
I powerof the Spir k, and the Word of life, doe change the 
aifpofiticn of the foule,{o farre as they enter and be recei- 
ved into it : But by faith their vertae is diffufed into 
the whole mafle. /^j;-;; ;p ; 

- Fourthly,, Admirdble in force and efficacy is the pcr- 
fwafion of faith , above all the Oratory in the world. All 
the common inducements taken from pr6fit,pleafure, ho- 
nour, what poore and weake engines are they to the irre- 

fiftible 



Comman dements, (^c. 



S19 



fiftiblc arguments of faith, by which it movcth the heart 
to yecld willing and cheareihli obedience. Thus it gocih'' 
to workewithus, HathChrifl: given himldfe for theei 
forgiven thee fo many debtsjconterred favours of all kin^s 
upon thee, and what haft :hou to retribute ? I f thou give 
all thy goods to the poore,thy body to the fire, thy foulc 
to lis jfervice, were not all fnorc off ecamp^nce ?. Loveft 
thoujloveft tbou this Saviour of thine, andidarett ihou ad- 
I venture upon any thing difpleafing unto him? Js there any' 
I thing too hard to be done for his lake ? too dearc or good 
j for him ? Whom hall: thou in heaven or earth worthy lo 
I be sffeded in comparifon of thy Saviour ? What is to be 
I dreaded but his difpleafure ? Is there any recompence to 
the joyes of Heavcnfany danger to the torments of Hell B 
any pleafureto the fcnfeof his favour ? O' my fouk why 
docft thou not refignethy fclle to the pleafure of his will 
ill every thing, runne when he calleth, and doc what hee 
requircth at thy hands? What doft thouicare? Wherewith 
art thou-intangled ? God is thy foveraigne, thy Fathcr-,thy 
Saviourjto him thou o weft thy fclfe,and all that thou haft, 
thy honour, wealth, life, or if any thing be more prctious j 
then thefe.Thoucanft not love thy felfe as ismcete,if thou ! 
denie not thy felfe to follow the Lord in all things. For in | 
keeping his Commandcmcnts there is great reward. Can, 
or did any Believer ever give the nay to thcfe melting 
commar.dsjor commanding intreaties of faith? Will it take 
the repulfe?Doth it not conftraine or extort more then all 
rackes andftrapadoes; allure more then all wages aud pri- 
zes .? When thou wouldft be fure to fpeede,. & obtaine any 
, thing ofthineowne untoward heart, fet faith on workcto 
make the motion, and thou ftialt prevaile.For the motives 
of faith arecertainejevident,and fuch as ciufe firmc aiTsnt, 
whereby the heart is drawne to follow after the thing 
propoled. n '.- 

Fiftly, It difpofc th and movcth the heart to abfolute, 
uniformcunpartialljandconftant obedience to every com- 
mandemcnt, and that in one eftatc a fw ell as another. In 
Scrip- 



38o 



Deut.jo.i*. 

&II. 22. 

2 King. 1 8.^. 

Pfal.1i9.j1. 
Heb.ii.5,33- 



6, 

Cant.8.7,8. 



*PfaU5-8. 



Luke 7.47. 



What it is to live by Taith touching the 

ScripturCjto believe in Chrift,and to kecpc the Command 
dements mutually infcrrc one another, either capable of 
others properties. Faith includes the complcate and pra- 
d:icall knowledge of good and cvill, inclining the facul- 
ties of our foule to avoid all commerce with the one, and 
embrace every branch of the other. It frameth the Image 
of God or Cfarift in our minds, and propofeth him -as a 
patterne for our imitation in all our workes,thoughts,3nd 
refolutions ; It acknowledgeth his foveraignty, affenteth 
faithfully to his will & pleafure^embraceth foundly every I 
part ofthe holy truth of God, and ftickethf 6 faft that no- 
thing can come betwixt the heart and it : from whence 
iffuethuniverfallrefpedtoall and every precept. Faith 
doth not admit one part ofthe Word and exclude another ; 
nor receive it barely into the Head,and (liut it forth ofthe 
heart, ; but cntertameth it wholly, diffufeth the vcrtue of 
it into every power ofthe foule,and changeth the naturall 
difpofition into the quality of the truth. And thus by faith 
the foule is kindly difpofed to follow the Lord, whither- 
foever he goeth before us. If the heart be dull and unto^ 
I ward, the beft courfeto redrefle what is out ofordcrjs by 
I quickening our aflcnt to the good pleafure of his com- 
mand, and our confidence in his mercy, 
1 Sixthly, It fires the heart with fuch an indefatigable and 
unquenchable love,that in comparifon of obedience it c6- 
temneth the whole world. For it acquainteth with the in- 
comprehenfible mercy and favour of God towards us in 
giving his Sonne,pardoning and forgiving manifold ofFen 
ces,lading us with his daily ble flings : It reprefenteth the 
ineftimable joy , that is prepared for them that waike be- 
fore God in holineffe and righteoufncffe : and this enf?a- 
meth the heart * to follow hard after the Lord. When by 
faith we difcerne what love the Lord beareth unto us, we 
cannot but returne love for love.Many finnes arc forgiven 
her, therefore fhe loveth much. 

And from all thcfe adts it followeth, That what a tem- 
porary believer doth by the halves, fupcrficially, or with 
_^____ an 



'Cpm?it^iidt77p^^j-\(^j[;\y 



t\ V 



vcr wk^s iij bsnd vBitb'an ifetjtrcs lourid,.iiprtgh£^ a^tdion; 
What Ht,the>Qns i^a livelefleadsoriytbc (SVi'-fide , of. car* 
caOe ofa^QOd workc'; tbaiinthe other is a good works 
indced,fprioging (rona an holyvwelr planted confidence in 
tlie mercy,' ot Godj ^refoktcadlitrencc to his Comman- 
demcncs, which (^a'sthe=^r»jmaU!faciUty):inipels to thattx- 
erc^.e.ThQX4fe-iAir.CKibt!es!iria;5t!bS.doji'i.e by the clviljnian 
and ^y rhcbcHevec fortbcout'fide.&rfdtkede.donci both 
iray goe to CI iircl^hearca^frerimoH -r^ade a Chapter jgive 
anAlir.cs, make a I?nayer ;.but the &ue gjoeth as a Bca^ e to. 
tjieftake in comparifon js^tbc' other b/whoi) is movbd by 
'rsith.: orletcheeiviUnianfe^jelig^^.be as. it may, ihfs adte 
I arc livcleflei becauretbbyiflucl aQt.'frojii;,aa ;txb{xlicnt^ill 
confidence int,he.LordAmccc'y.'; ; .: ,rl ;]cfj : i ■:> 

Seventhly^ Faith -makes 'fenfibb of our !raanifo!d die- 
ftfl:.^;, infif mirics; a!ijdFaUings|i ' faintinga and codlings^ Iti 
fheUfe^ hovyitW^^p We are ofourldjresi .hQ\^faTre.iW.eJ 
come fliortjhoW aptwc acciticiKdediiafi aodift^cRafidfiiAiii'ii' 
this confideratioa of faith "hath blcfTe^dtcff^iSrs.;!; .hr ti^.irn'l 

Fir[}, Itcaufcth fc.rious artd artenriver! meditation -upon' 
the \^9rdpfG6dj tbac.it mayifinke dcspca.;idabide.fir!i23c' 
i{);^be h&e^xtylha^v^id {jar trcafut^ek 'cfcfjK-]}. fhyl^j^onohmHS^' 

this purpgfe, a believer waiSn or be negligent td iwaich aU 
oppoFtunitieSy-w hen his fouie is tbrgughly iffcd ?d with 
uncxpcldt^ itiatxcr of.forrow,'j%,griefe,feaTey!^dinirarioii 
or jtj^e li kc j^a od iwr tfewitb to app ly fudi pafl^esi ofc S onipw 
ture, as fute bcft to the prefenc affe(5iidwf.M\v'.r lal-^r ov.'.-.!.\ 
. ■ S<corid'y; JUVorkv^dithchftirt (oftieni^id dcBlifccxt-fly 
to renew its refoluriQrjnbt.ttiii}ing irinur idwnel^rcngrh, 
but in the grace of God. I,haveftvorne,.>(iniyvMfc^forme it 
C^w(^ingppo4Vthy[ divine gfiacejWitbou^iivliich i^c^cainilO' 

^\TSir'^ly vl]^ iVi>he5>iipjeariicftvci^'nft^^ !r,,aTidlitafty'|^y'- 
^rSy ;q. tjc tauoht'in the iaw^ iipt^ld "eil^bl!%;d andtrcJiifir- 
vp^ed. ^IF^tblqan^th uponthc Lpi'd, and d^ijcWi xihtQ^^bw\ 
>v\ for 



3S1 



.oi.^ir.h 



^oi •;£•:;.;! J 



I. 



Pial . ri 0. 1 r. 
uk i.oj;, 66. 



Luk i.oj 



rn^i^v 






582 



Pfal.il9-i8. 
Verfe 5. 
Veife 10. 
Verfe a8. 

IS. 



What it isMlin^hy Faith touching tht 



Hckil.piio, 
ii,iz,i3, 15. 

Verfe, 17a 18. 
Verfe J f, 3 6. 

Pfal.t7.14* 
&3i.»4. 
Efay 50.7. 



for hclpe,kno v^ing that wc have no ftFehgth-of our fdves. 
Of en thcM nalaeeyes fhm I mdy behdid .the 'wettdmufhtrtgs 
am 9fthj Uw. O tfMt niy'.T^ayeiwer-e'^reSi'idtokitepethy 
fiath'tes. With my y»h&le heart have J fought the^, O let me 
rjotwandgrfrsm thy Comm^}ide»tems. My fettle meltethfer 
heavinep ; flrevgthen theu me according to thy -w^rd. Hold 
tiji fny^cings in tky faihs,^C\^tmy fooifteps flip net, > 

Eigbtly, It dotKconfirme in obedience, and pricke for- 
ward therein, though it be in manifold and bitter perfecu- 
tions : It puts into us both courage and condancy to fight 
againft the ftrongcft lufts, and let upon the pra^ice of the 
moft difficult duties,.notwithftandin^ aloppofition from 
the World, or the Divell;yea, thoughwc have beenc foi- | 
led, or taken the repulfe. He will not fearcthe fubduing 
of the moQ: head-ftrong paflion, who refteth upon God 
I for power and ability ; nor be difmayed becaufc once he 
hath received a foile, vv ho depends upon God for ftrength 
to recbver • nor dread the might of his^teatcft adverfary, 
j whoknoweththat God willbcat his right hand to fu- 
j ftaine and ftrengthen bim ; nor dart afide in the moll dif- 
ficult duty ,whofe heart is faft hnked unto the Lord .and re- 
licth upon his grace to be enabled unto whatfoever he is 
j pleaied to call him. By fz\th tAlfrAhdYn fo/ourncd in the 
land of promife, and mipded rot to returne to his native 
Country,thoughhe had opportunity. By faith, being tried 
Q^GodiyhtQScxcdiU^Ifitac:.andhethat had received the 
premi/e/y offered up his oftely begotten Sonne. By faith feme 
were torture^yHot accepting deliver AKce, iome fioned^ fbmc 
flaine tvith thefw&rd, .. c - 

, Faithcncoiiragethtoconftancyin wel-doing, by affu- 
ring of Gods all- feeing prefence , powerful! proteftion, 
continuall afli{lance,gracious acceptance, good iucceffe, & 
everlaiting recompence : ^efiroKg in theLordy'andinthe 
power ofhi^ might, Wdte on the Lard: bee of good courage, 
and heRJhaliSirengtkeh thine heArt, For the Lord €od wiff 
^^helpe mffy therefore Jhall I not be confoun^d'Aherefore have I 
Jet my face like flint, and I k*tovp that JJhall not be confounded 

Let 



i Comi>h4ndemijt$s^, ^e, 



K C -.h 



\'^T'5' 



Lit Hi gocfdrth therefore unto him without the Campey bea- 
ring his refroAch. For here vfe have fto cpntin^ifig C^'Jf-i hut 
wefeeks o»e ta conte.Bjf faith Moizs4i4ehfffe rather tofupr 
sffli&ioM yvith thepofh of God, th^jf toenjoy thep/eafures of 
finite for a feafon ; efieemin^ the reproach of Chrifi gre^iter 
riches then the treafkrer of ^^y^t: for he had rejpe^ unto 
the ricempence of reward, ,..1 

But faith that continually drives forward to doc good 
. worke5, dotli eyer force the believer to (ieniehimiclfe,^ 
lacknowlcdgeicto be the mercy of the Lord in Chrift, 
i that he is not confounded.Though a man be plentifully la- 
den with good workes ; yet faith doth ever prefent him 
before the throne of grace as poore and miferablcdefiring 
ofrocerc mercy to be recqived and accepted ;It confeffetb 
the n;ianifoldimperfe(flions of our heft workerj ack-now- 
Icdgeth every grace and goo^.worke to be of Cjod;& ne- 
ver lookcth to workes further then as they be figncs df 
grace, cffed:s of faith, and qualifications of that fub/cifl, 
which makes faithful! plea to the Kingdpme of Heaven, 
through the free mercy of God in jcfus^Chrirt- ■ • , , 
, But how fliould a Chriftian quicken fajth td.the cbear^ 
full pradicc of that duty, whcreunto be fmdcs bimfclfe 
dull and (luggifh ? 

. Firft, He mud acknowledge and bcwaile his dulncfie 
and fioach, make it hatcfull, and (haofie bimfelfc for it be- 
fore God. OL©rd, I cannot, I ddire not to hide from 
thee mine indifpofition, and unfitneffe to any holy duty ; 
how dull, rcmide, fleighty lam in the pra(5life of true 
piety and godlincffe. I finde more life, diligence, cheare- 
fulneffe in any worldly bufinefle, then in the workes of 
holineffc which thou requircft. C*tr(ed is the- m^n that 
dojth the warke of the Lori negligently I who hath a male in 
his flockeyandoffereth the halt or lame unto the Lord, What 
is my portion, if I fhouldbe dealt with in /ufticc, who 
have neglected my,duty,and facrificed that which is tome 
and fickc unto the great King and Lord of hofts, whofe 
name is dreadful! among the Heathen ? It is hatcfull \n ij 

fcr- 



^^' 



Heb. 



»Jii,i4 



Heb. 1 1, i J, 4^. 



Meaner to 
quic'ienour 
felvcs to the 
praffije of ok- 
dience. 

J. 



Jer. 4 *?.!♦. 
Mai. 1, 14, 



3^4^ 



What h i^i^lmi^^jA 



hlng the 



Servant to do M^w^fke'b/thefelV-esi'^ecia^^^ 
himfdfe unto his^M after -f o>r uridefef vcdirndneffes t^iiac- 
foever I am> Ihavercc^fivedit oftbefcOrd : iTi'poflibTc 
i^ty jtbatKsgn berperfcrtned of aPrbfOHable cr'ekltire,T bW^ 

ny great, undeftrvedi iilc^t^ftcllcn'rfble meKcieSjtliati am 
never able to repay, or fufficientl-y to acknowledge*: and 
in xpe it is rnoft'^nominabie that I have beehe halting and | 
deecitfuU in ^^hat he commandcth. G^n any man deferve '- 
.that daty from' aftothcr, that thoUj-0 Lord, haft 'and 'doft < 
•dcfetVeof me ? Can he be in fuch'dependance #t6 anc^- 1 
therjaslamuntothy Majefty, in whom I live, move, I 
have my being -, by whom I am pfeferved,redecmed,and i 
called unto life ? If the idle, ufitfafty, deceitFull fcrvant j 
•mcrifi^ripes'f'myfl«ightne{fe^nddbuble= dealing in the i 
■exei^eires of GodliHe&5 is w^rt^y diaineaiid con|tifi6n of I 
ij ^face'for evcrm^re.NomarvelU It I'findc fmall comfort in 
i! life, feeleno power and fwectneife in- the ordin^ntes'of 
I grace, when I deale par^iaiUy, 'heare perfumfloril^, pray 
j coldly, labouf "nottofedeR^nthe word/^ and fu^ke vi- 
j-gouroat'ofiJr.ThedHties of courtefie lofe thiir .\^'on:h.and 
ij xfteeme tv-kh H>en,Vvfeen wrung from us by impqhiihacy, 
I or followed withaflackehand.-Lerdjthouloveftachearc- 
fdllgiver,delightcft in willing and free-hearted offerings; 
•with wha^ face then ^an I {yre^Ht;tinto tir^' Mia'jefi'y', oi* 
•how {hoiildeft tlidiVtakc pleafiire in that a^i medico rrupt, 
.unchcarefull, fuperjficiallydead >ferviee which I perforine ? 
In formertimes Ihaveferved finne and Sathan with more 
willingnefTe, alacrity and paines ; I havebecne ready to 
runne whither the divell drove me.; I am ftill forward to 
gratific unruly defires with this of t^^at they ftand linto, 
and are bent upon. Whatani Ibut a^fpirituall adiiltcrcfle, 
in that I have yeelded'the members of my body as wea- 
pons of unrighteoufnes to doe the will of Satan,& liftened 
to the motions of the fle£h>with mo.sreadineffe to Icane 
Onto them, then hitherto I could give nay felfc unto Qodi 
ia&lithingstob)erukdanddiifedledby him? G' tord, i 

am 



CemmAndtmd^ts^^z, 



585 



3K 



Veifc.158. 



am vile, -k is of thy imfpeakcaWc merci© that thou art 
pleafcd to'looke d^vrnc upon me, or to accept of any fcr- 
vice^atlcafi offer. 

Sccohdly,He muft call upon his foule by many powerful! 
& ftrbngpcrfwafions,taawakc to the work of God with 
UveHnciie. ArifcjO my foule, why flcepcft thou,ftirre op 
'thy fei f e with readincfle to obey the charge of God in the 
'duties of his worfhipjand the worksof Mercy and luftice: 
wiihftand fin, fubdue corruptions, fight manfully againft 
•the temptations of Satan,& the allurements of the world: 
Sticke faft unto" the teftimonies of the Lord, and lay his 
judgements before thee. For the teOimonies of the Lord 
are wonderfull, his judgem.ents good, righteous and very 
faithfull : his word is very pure j and his law \s the truth. 
The fervice of God is perfc^ freedome: he walkcth at li- 
berty, who runneth on in obedience. As thy love to the 
1?w is,' fuch {hall thy life be : nothing is hard to a willing 
'■ftimde. Want ofafFedion to the word of truth makes the 
duties comanded to fecmc irkefomc and tedious. Love the 
Gommandements above gold, and obedience will be as 
pleafant,as gaine to the covetous. Looke upon the Saints, 
who-have gone before : they endured imprifonmcnt.lofle 
of liberty, the fpoiling of goods, hazard of life with joy, 
looking untd the eternall and incomprehenfiblc recom- 
pence of reward.Thou art not called to fuffer,but to obey; 
at leaft not to fuffer fuch grievous torments as they did : 
why doeft thou then delay, ftartafide, or goe forth unwil- 
lingly ? Wouldeft thou raignc witll them, and not labour 
with them ? receive the price,and not run the racc?dividc 
the fpoilc, and not fight the battell ? In the affaires of this 
life we love to cxcell, and out-goc our fellowes ; as to be 
ifirft up,and about our worke ; to exceed in favour, riches, 
honour,wifedome ; and in matters of Religion to be dead 
and lumpifli, is it notabhominablc ? Obedience is no dull 
fervice, no dead piece of worke, but the way to blclTed- 
nes and the crowne of glory. The Lord hath not faid,i'^^4 Efay.45.1^, 
mee in vnine. The reward of obedience is ccrtaine,though 

Cc our 



3^^ i 



iCov.i.^. 



^ 
1Pfai.143.10. 



Cant. 1. 4. 

Pfal.119.3j, 

3453?- 
Vcafc 1 3 J. 



IPfal.l19.36. 

4. 

KPial.11993. 



'Pfaf.iip57. 
112. 
Pfal.up.153 



What it is to live hy Faith touching the 

our workcs dcfervc nothing. The Merchant uadertakcs 

dangerous adventures to raife his cftatc,inrichhimfelf.But 

what is the gold of India to the j oyes of Hcaven?a !&ding 

poffeflion to an cternall weight of glory ? ftrive to enter, 

and goc forward m the ftraitc way that Icadcth unto life. 

Arifc, why tarricft thou ? forget not the high price of thy 

callingjbut contend forward towards the marke. Heaven 

is worth all thy labour. We are glad to be entertained of 

them, who have a name to be liberall & bountiful! to their 

attendants ; who is to be compared to the Lord our God 

herein ? He is moft able, and bcft willing to prcfcrrc his 

fcrvants.Eye hath not feenc.eare hath not heard,it exceeds 

all humane capacity to conceivc,what furpalTing glory and 

Joy the Lord hath prepared for them that love him. 

Thirdly, He muft pray to ,the Lord that he w^uld re- 
vive and quicken him. Teach me to die thy tvlttfor thou art 
my God '^ tkj Spirit i^ good\ lea^ms into the land of uprights 
neffe. My defire is to do thy good pleafurc, but of my felfe 
I have no ability thereunto : Draw me and IwiHrunne af^ 
ter thee. Teach me the vfaj of thy ftAtutfS, atdl will ^epeit 
unto the end. ^ive mee underflanding^ andl Jhmll keepe thy 
law '^yeay IJhall obfirve it -with my whale heart. Lord thoii 
haft commanded me to kcepe thy te[limonies j give me J 
pray thee to doe what thou requireft. Incline my heart to 
thy fiatutes, and not to covetoufnejpt 

Fourthly, He muft renew his refolution to walke with 

GQ(i trufting in his grace* * I will never forget t hy precepts, 

for with thernthoH hafi qmck^ednte. I have fully purpojfcd 

to kecpe and cleave unto thy Commandemenrs, for they 

are the >oy of my heart. But, Lord I leane not upon mine 

j ownc ftrength, but upon thy gracq, whprgivefl: both to 

i will andsto doe,. , Thofi art my portion, O ^ordy I have/aid 

' that Iwill keepe thy. words, Ordir my Heps in thy word: and 

. let not any iniquity have dominion over me., '; 

CHAP. 



duties ofmrv9CAtien. 



387 



Chi ft tans are 
'2llotveJioUve 



CHAP. X. 

fFhat it « to live bj faith in the duties of 
our vocation. 



IT is the ordinance of God, that men flnould labour in 
fome honcft vocation,for their private maintenancc,and 
the common good, that iSf the benefit and good eftate of j bJM in the 
mankind : And for encouragement be hath promifed to I ^^^^" ^/'^"> 
protc^ and bleflc them that kcepe themfelvcs within the 
limits, and doe the workes of their calling with diligence. 
The texts of Scripture are plaine for both. The Lord God 
tooke the many andput him into the garden o/Eden to drejfe 
it, andtokeefeix Inthefweate of thj face p: alt thou e ate 
head, tin thou returne unto the ground. Let him that fie le-^ 
flea le no morcy but rather let him labour^ ivot king with 
his hands the thing that is good : that he m<nj have to give to 
him that needeth. Let every man abide in the fame calling 
wherein he was called. Study to be quiet ^ and to doe your owne 
bufineffe and to worke with your owne hands, (at we comman- 
dedyou ) thatyee maywalke honefily towards them that are 
without. For even when we were withycu, this we comman- 
dedyou, that if any man woulei not worke neither fhouldhee 
eate. The hand of the diligent maketh rich, Thefubflance of 
a diligent man ispretious. He that gat hertth by labour fljall 
encreafe. The hand of the diligent fhaU beare rule. See fi thou 
a man diligent in his bufineffe ? heejhallftandbefre Kings ^ 
hee fball not fland before meane men, Hee fhall give 
his tyingels charge over thee to keepe thee in all thy 
wayes. 

Now feeing God hath commanded us to labour in a cal- 
ling, prefcribed the bounds of our calling, and promifed 
his protedlion and blelTing to our honeft endeavours, it 
fcannot bee queftioned whether we be allowed to live by 
I faith in the duties of our calling. For the exercife of faith 
is as large as the word whereby it is guided and modera- 

C c 2 ted, 



'Vocation. 



Gcn,2.ij. 

Gen. 5.19' 

Ephei;4.28. 



iCor.7.zo. 

Pro.io.4.& 
12.27. 

Pro.13,11. 
Pro. 1 2. 14, 



Pro.2X.2^, 

Pral.5,i.u. 



388 



what it is u live by Faith in the 



Its necejfary to 
live by faith in 
the duties of our 
[vocation. 



Heb.u.6. 



ted, that it neither exceed, nor come fliort. Where a 
workc is commanded, faith puts forth it felfc in adion ; 
where a promife is made, it truftethj relieth, and waiteth 
for accompliHiment. In every honeft ftatc and condition 
of life there is ufe of faith in both refpcfls : For labour is 
commanded,and promife of blcfling is made to them that 
worke according to the will and pleafurc ot^GodK Moreo- 
ver , God is hereby much gloritied , that wee com- 
mit our felves wholly unto him, . labouring as hec hath 
appointed, and depending upon his grace for good fuc- 
ccfte. 

It is neceffary wee fbonid live by-faith, to prevent 
the evil's which bcfot us in our ordinarje caVings : cove- 
toulneffe, injuftice, impatience, and diftrading care. Na- 
turally men are apt to incumber themfelves with fuper- 
fiuous bufinefle, and trouble themfelves about the event 
and fuccefle : they content not themfelves with their lot 
and condition, but deiire to heaps up riches and increafe 
their fubftancc above mcaiu^-e ; they forecaft many things 
in their heads long before ; and know no end of their 
cares. The trouble men meet with in the world, begets 
love of the world^and whether they be croffcd or profper j 
the more they be exercifcd about the things of this life , 
the more they follow after them with greedineife, vexa- , , 
tion, difcontent, plotting and devifing how to compaffc 
their defignes whether by right or wrong, fraud or op- '■ 
preffion. Tlie foveraigne remedy againd thcfc and other 
the like mifchiefcs, which we are prone to runne into, is 
a lively faith, which liftctb up the heart to better things, 
then oughc is to be found under the Moone, quietly fub- 
mitteth unto the good pleafure of God, commendeth 
; the fucccfle and event of all honeft endeavours unto his 
^ Highnefle, and rcHeth upon his grace for prefeat helpc 
\ and future fupply intbrC ufe of £uch meajic&as fie hath or- 
dained. 

PVkhoHt faith it isimfojjlble topieafe GoJ. God U the 
Auihour of every honeft vocatiott^,and by bis appoi^itment 

men 



duties (fenrvecAthn, 



men ougtitto labour m^omc particular ftatc or condition 
of life : but that work is r.ot acceptable, which is not done 
in faith. If faith doe not quicken, fcafon, and guide the 
workes of cur calling, they arc dead and carnall as they 
come from us,neither begun upon found ground,nor done 
in uniforms and right m9nner,nor ditched to a right end. 
That which ftiould put life into the aftion is sbfcnt, if 
faith be lacking. 

Experience is of great ufe in a godly life, both to con- 
firmc faith, ftrengthen hope, preferve love, overcome 
I temptations, and dircft in difhcUities. But the resdy 
mcanestoget grounded experiencejis tolivebyfaithinthc 
workes of our vocation, and obfcrve how the Lord dca- 
leth with us therein according to his word. 
The afts of faith in this particular be thefc. 
Firft, It informeth to make choife <if an hotwft vo- 
cation ; for which we are fitted ; andinto which we may 
enter, by dired, good, and lawfull meanes. Hee thst ntt- 
derfiandeth a matter JhaH finde good, faith Solomon: 
wherein hcc teacheth, that what bufincfle any man ta- 
keth in hand, hee muft know it well and accurately, if he 
lookc to finifh it honeftly and with good fuccefTc. This 
therefore is the rule, by which we arc dire(5Ved in our 
vocation, that what art any man knoweth, he fhould 
cxercife himfelfe in it. This, as \t mufl: be obferved in all 
arts, fcienccs, profcffions, in the famih'. Common- 
wealth, Church ; fo, as every art or proff ffion is of grea- 
ter moment in any (ocictie publikc or private, facred or 
prophane, it is with greater diligence, more ftudioufly to 
be looked unto. As our calling mufl be honefl, that 1%, 
fcrviceable to the Church, Common- wealth or private 
family J and as we mufl: be gifted for it ; fo mud we en- 
ter by lawfull anddiredl meares appointed of God, that 
wee may bee afTured our calling is of God, and that hee 
j will accept of our fcrvice in that efliate and condition of 

Secondly, Faith infl:ru^eth not to meddle above our 
!_ Ccg know- 



38^ 



The aSis of faith 
inreJpe^oftU 
duties of our 
tatting. 
Fco.i5.2o. 



3Po 



What it is to live bj Faith in the 



Pro.i6.ao, 
Pio. 5.5,6. 



Pfal. 117.1,1. 
Hag. 1.6,9. 

Ecde.^.ii. 



4. 

Pfal.itS.i. 
Bph.6.j,6. 



knowledge, but to leane upon the living Lord, not on 

our skill or cunning, tvhe fo trufieth in the Lord ha ppic 

ishse, Trufi in the Lord with all thine heart, and leane 

nat unto thine owne underfianding : In all thj wayes ac- 

\ knowledge hint, and hee fhall direEh thy pathes. Ic is bard 

I for a mm very skilfull, fo to with-draw his heart and 

thought from his skill, as that he doc not wholly reft in 

ic : but faith, looking further then fence or reafon is able, 

difpofleflbch the heart of this carnall confidence, and 

fixcth ic upon the Lord alone. For it acknowledgeth him 

onely to be the fountaine of all good, and perfwadcih the 

foule, thatunlefleit rele upon his grace, wifdome, and 

ftrcngth,he fhall bring nothing to pafle by his o wne wife- 

dome,wit and cunning. For cither he fliall not eiiedl what 

he indcavours to doe, by ths helpe and benefit of his skill j 

or if he bring it to paffe, it (hall not fucceedor availc him 

to thofe honeft ufes which he intended. The race is not to 

thefmftynor the hattellto the flreng.neitheryet bread to the 

wife ^nor yet riches to men ofunderfianding-^ nor yet favour to 

menofsktlL 

Thirdly, It quickencth the moft skilfuU workeman 
to drive with Gcd in prayer, that the workc he fctteth 
upon might fuccecd well and profper y that isy that his 
skill might be ready and at hand, whereby he might fi- 
nifh the thing hee goeth about, and that it might be 
ofufe to them for whom it is appointed. For being fcnfiblc 
of his owne weakencfle, and expecting helpe and fupply 
from heaven, he will not ceafe to crave the aide and blef- 
fing of God.It is the property of faith to pray continually, 
looking i^nto the moft high for helpe, and having a lively 
fence of prefent want,which ftirreth up a ferious affedion 
\ ofpraying, 

\ Fourthly, It caufcth diligence, care, uprfghtnefle, and 
faichfiilncfle in all the workes, adions, and bufineffes of 
ourca'ling; as knowing that whileft wewalkehoneftly 
therein, wee doe fcrvice to the Lord Jefas. It is noted 
ofthcvertuous, wife, faithfull, and godly woman, that 

Jhee 



duties efeuwoeAticn, 



Jhee feeketh wostty and fiaxfy anA worketh vpiUiftgiy with 
herhandt: Sheerifethalfo whi/eitisyetmght, andgiveth 
MfAte t9 her houfhold. Faith awakcneth the fluggard, 
rowfeth the lafic, makcth the idle lay his bones to worke, 
andhimihatwasapurloyncr, to dcale trucly, yuftly,and 
honeftly. It is tkc bcft cockc to caR up thedrowfie : for 
it ringeth in his eare 3 when wilt thou arife ? loc the 
Lord callcth thee to thy taske j why tarrieft thou fo long, 
ftirreft foflowly > The Sunne rejoyceth as a Gyant to run 
his race : why fharpeneft not thou thy felfe to the worke 
which God hath laid upon thee ? It is the willingeft 
mcflenger to be fent upon any bufincffe, the truftieft ovcr- 
feer of any labour, the moft free undergoer of any toyle 
or paines ; you neede not call him to reckoning who 
accounts with faith ; nor haft him forward who moveth 
by faith ; nor chaine him to bis worke, who by faith un- 
dertakcth it. For he is aflured he doth it unto God, who 
callcth upon him, and from whom bee mtifl: exped: rc- 
compence, if hee walke chearefully, and infingleneflfc 
of heart. When a man is perfwaded, that his calling 
is approved of God, and profitable to men, by helping 
to maintaine the ftate of the Church or Commonswealth, 
and tbat it is that, in which God will be fervcd of him •, 
then he takes it in hand, not like a drudge or droilc who 
doth his work for fearc of the whip ; nor like an hireling, 
who workes onely for wages ; nor like eyc-fcrvants who 
leave their bufinenc when the matters eye is turned afide : 
but with good will, diligence and finglenefle of heart, he 
addrefleth himfclfe to his worke , being affured of Gods 
alfiftance and furtherance therein, whom he krves in his 
vocation. This perfwafion that we ferve the Lord in our 
callings, who is a bountiful! pay-mafter, and bath promi- 
kd a large bleffing unto us,f orceth to goe willingly about 
|that workcjwhich otherwifc would feeme toylefome and 
unplcafant. 

Fifthly, It incouragethto the moft difficult, painfull, 
and (in the worlds cftccmc ) difgracefiiU workes of our 

C c 4 callings. 



391 

Pro.ji.ijjij. 



2Chro.j4.1z. 



Ephcf.5.8. 



5. 



^9z 



what it it t» live Ifj Faith in the 



I0A.7. f, 
fi Pro. 3 1,17. 



2,Tim.i.7,8,f 



Heb.11.7. 
Iiiclg.1.4. 



Mark. 6. 18. 



6. 



cjdling. Diftmd « breeds niccncflc.f care and fluggifhncs : 
faith producoth *»hardineflcj valour, andadivity; font 
aflUrcs of divine prorcftion and goad fucceffc : Pride 
make J msn afhamed of many things, which in the world 
be matters of dif grace : but faith witneffcth>that the true- 
cH: honour is to be Gods fervant, and the greated glory to 
dowhatfoevcrthc Lord rcqairethat our hands. By faith 
2^9ah prcpareth the Arke, le: the men oFthcold world 
mocke their fill. By faich IndAh goeth up to fight the 
Lords battels, whatfoevcr danger appeare in the voyage 
Faith bringeth Abraham from his native countrey,and his 
father.' houfejto fojourne in aftrangc land, when he is cal- 
led of the Lord.Faich makcth lohn the Baptift bold to tell 
Herod plaincly, that ic is not lawfuU for him to have his 
brothers wife, let him take i: as he pleafe. Corruption 
will fuggeO, filch a thing bcfecmech not a man of my 
place,brceding, bringing up ; ii would be taken ill,might 
procure difpleafurc, trouble, difgrace, and danger : but 
faith boketh co the Word of God, and ific be a dutiere-, 
quired, incouragerh to fet about it with fpeed, referring 
the iffue and event to him that hathcommanded it, and 
efteemeth it thegreateft credit to doe the will and plea- 
lure of the Lord, 

Sixtly, It ftrengtbcneth againH; manifold troubles, dii- 
graces, oppofitions, and difcouragemcnts that men mcetc 
withall in their places j and inableth to goe through 
ftitch with our bufineffe in ill report and good report, 
in honour and difgrace. Diftnift brirgeth forth weari- 
neflc and fainting: faith perfifteth in the worke, notwich- 
ftanding all difficulties which may arife, either from the 
dayly continuance of the labour, or other impediments. 
Faith either negledleth, or removcth , or breakcth 
through all lets and obftaclcs. Worldlings and hypo- 
crites are diflieartned in their bufinefTe, bccaufenoman 
refpedls their paines, is well-pleafed with their doings ^ 
let them doe what they can, they {hall not have a good 
word : But the found believer is aboundantly fatisfied? 

with 



duties of our vocation. 



393 



I Cor. 4. J, . 
iThcff.z <?j9. 



with Gods approbation and reward, and gocth on chcar- 
fully, though men {hew him no countenance, altow no , 
rccompcnce j yea though he be moleftcd, pcrfecuted, im- j Heb.i i ,3 j^j 
prifoned, killed for weli-doing. If God bcpleafcdto 1 37. 
vouchfafe other incouragemenrs to take paines, faith ' 
makes ufe of them with thankefulnefle : but if they bee 
wanting, it will not give place to negligence or re- 
miflcnefl'e, Pf^ith mee it is 4 very fmall tktn^ that I 
fhculd bee j^i^£fd "f y^**> or of mans 'judgement, 7^r 
of men fought wse glory, neither of you, nor yet of others,, 
when xfee might have beene bnrdenfome as the ^Apo- 
fiUs of Chrjfi. *BHt what things were galne to mee, 
thofe J connte^d lofe for Chrifi* Tea, doubt lefe and I 
count all things but /offe, for the excellencie of the knowledge 
ofChrifi Jeftts my Lord : for whom Jbavefttferedthe lojfe 
of all things j and doe count them but dung that I may winne 
Chnfi. 

Seventhly, It dircftcth wifely to order the affaires of 
our calling, and to goc about them in good manner, that 
is, m obedience, to right ends, and with an heavenly 
Minde, cxercifingthe graces that God hath befto wed up- 
on us : whereby it comes to paffetbat ihey arc furtheran- 
ces and not hinderanccs in the duties of piety. Thus Da- 
vid behavedhimfelfe wifely in all his wayes:and being called 
ofGod to the governcmcnt of the kingdome,he promifeth 
to execute his office in uprightneffe and innocencie to the 
praifc oi God : / willfing efntercy andJHdgement, to thee, 
O Lorc>,willIfing. 

Eightly, As faith quickencth to labour and doe what 
pertaineth to our calling ;fo it teacheth to moderate cares, 
confine defires of earthly things, and commit our fe1v;s 
to God for the fucceifc of our worke. Labour is m ms 
dutie ; good fucce{fe is theble(Tingof God. Men coin- 
monly take upon them a double care ; one to doe the 
workes of their place, the other to take thought about 
theblefling and fuccefl'e of their labour- .But faith in Gods 
Word, where it raigncs, applicth the hearts of men to the 
________^ pertor 



7- 

Ecclc.2.i5, 
iSam,iS.i4. 

Pfal. 101.8, 
8. 



35^4 



PfaJ. J y.a?. 



What it is to live by Faith in the 



Matth,6. J I, 
I Pet. J 7. 



PfaI.ii7.J, 
Prov^i^.j, 



Matth.6.33 

Pfal.4t.t. 
Pfal. 16 5. 



performance of their duties, and leaveth the blcfling of 
their indeavours to the goodwill and plcafure of God 
Thus we arc exhorted to doe. Cafi thy burthen upon the 

^'^d,4tnd he JhaHfufiainetheeiheJhali never MertLrlfh. 
teens to be moved, •' JJ S 

A Chriftian is to confidcr the difficulty of all things 
pcrtainingtohim,andwhatdangerisinthem. Hcisdili! 
gently to fet his hand to the worke, and through neg J 
gencc^ to offlit nothing that is of moment to t%a and 
bringit to pafle. But having tak en counldl, and laboured 
painefully,he muft lay afidecareof theeventA rowkhis 
burtheuupon the Lord who hath promifed that all thin^ 
ftallbe wellregarded. And this*^ faith hath an infallibfe 
ground, namely that God bed knowesour want., and 
will give us all things, which in his heavenly wifdoi^e he 
kno wcth to be neceflary.r.«r heave./jFJeri.o^^that 

y9ur care on god,forhecarethforyou. Norhine Ihall be 
wantmguntothem that feare God. And thus! thM. 

Ood with eflfe care, toile, and vexation, then worWlings 
can by all their cunning ihifts,fleight.,and dcvT<^l nZ 
^^^^^l^^orHsunto 

a. ^W%tt reftraincth the dt^r^z^ of tranteric things, 

^Mrft;^^ f -^u^ Kmgdome of Heaven, hungers and 
rnnfnrf -^^^ fecdeth upon the mercy of 

Son "''"'^ ''^''^ ^^'''^'^ ^" ^^^ ^^^^ ^« if* o"eIy 

he miferies and calamities that accompany us L our cal! 
^^T ^"'".'^^ ^allofe^^.^, ]aboLanSa?fl?ft: 
aree/r? ."T^.u^'^r^".^ both which 

o Ev^th^ '^'!i'' f^ith confidereth,that this commeth 
to pane \,y the good providence of God, who fometimes 

crofTcth 



dutiej of our vocation. 



croflech our good and lawful! attempts, Icaft wee {hoiild 
tmftinourfclvcs, dcfpifc the poore and afjfli(5ted, and be 
glued faft to thele earthly things. Alfb it remembers us 
of Gods dearc and tender love,who of meere favour doth 
chaftife, and will fo order, that all raiferiesfliallinthe 
end turne to our good. And by fuch like meditations it 
workcth the foule to contentation in every eftate. I have 
learned in rohatfsever fiate Jam, therevptth to h content, I 
know both how to be abafed, andl k»ovt> how to abound: every 
■where ^ in all things lam infim^edj both to be fully and to 
behnngriey both to abound ^ andto[ujferneed» Moreover, 
faith turnethcrofles into advantage, as itcalleth the affli- 
dlcd unto the examination ofhiswayes, and reformation 
of what is amific.worketh felfc-denialljcmptieth the heart 
of the love of bafe and tranfitory things, quickeneth un- 
to praycr,caufcth toreUifli mercy with more fweetnefle, 
and covet fpirituall things more earncftly, reviveth hope, 
and gaineth experience ot Gods favour and teoder com- 
pafTion. 

Tentbly, Faith reftraineth diftruftfall care concerning 
the fucceffe of oiu* labours, but is not flackc to crave Gods 
bIclTing upon our labours. It wrappeth all gricfes,vexati- 
ons and cares togcther,and powreth them forth before the 
I*ord iti prayer. B^ carefuU for nothings but in every thing 
by prayer andfuffUcation with thanksgivingyletyour re^uej} 
be mtide k^owne unto God^ In the midft of forrowes faith 
is (ilentfronimurmuring and impatience ; but it is never 
filent in. prayer :it doth continually cry unto the Lord for 
fiiccour.-.. ,.:;;,:,-t; ,-. :,•■ - -,i \ . 

Eleventhly. If we findc wiflied fuccefle, it makes vi- 
gilant, frugal, humble, mercihill, and thankefull : for it 
receiveth all blcfling8,as gifts of grace,to be imploycd ac- 
cording to Gods will and appointment,to the glory of his 
Name, and comfort of his people : andteacheth fo to ufe 
the world, as willingly to renounce all intcreft in the 
world, for the fafhion thereof pafleth away. And with 
what confciencc towards God we arc inclined to labour, 

with 



295 



rhil.4.1 



T,IJ. 



10, 



Phil.4;<5. 



PfalCij 



II. 



1 Cor.7.ji. 



3P5 



Pro.ii t«f,t6. 
Plal.iia.9. 

12. 



^/^rf/ it is to live b^ Faith in the 



live by faith 
touching tie 
fuccejfs ofwr 
i4bours. 
I. 
•Pro. }.f. 
Jcr,io.»3. 

£1.2. 



Lam.s.37' 



with the lame we arc ftirrcd up to give to others, as need 
requircth. The defire oftheflothfrll kjUeth him: for his hands 
refttfetfi Ubonr, He coveteth greedily all the day Ung : $M 
the righteous givethan^fpareth not, 

Twclfthly, faith ccupleth the labours of our calling 
with the pradice ofChriftianity : for God hath laid his 
Commandement upon us, both to feeke his Kingdome, 
worke out ourfalvation, make our cledlion lure, exercife 
our felvcs in all good workcs,walke in love and labour ho- 
ncftly in (Hir particular vocation : and faith cannot fc- 
paratc what God hath joyned. He that laboureth in faith 
lookcth not onely what he doth, but why he doth it ; and 
hath refpcdl to one duty commanded as well as another, 
the rcafon of bis obedience being one and the fame,na[nc- 
ly, the will and commandcmcnt of the Lord. If a man 
labour in faith ; the better he laboureth, the more diligent 
he is in the fcrvice of God, and workcs of mercy j and the 
more diligenthe is in the duties of piety,the more faithf ull 
in his honcft labour. 

But how (hould a Cferiftian live by faith touching the 
good fuccefTe, and diredion of that worke or bufineflc, 
I whcrcunto he is called,which he findcs to be much above 
his ftrcngth or meanes. 

Firft, Faith eaufcth felfe-deniall in refpc(5l ■ of judgc- 
mcntjwifcdomCjand power : for we are blindc in chufing, 
foolifli in refolving what is to be done ; * what is rii;ht in 
our eyes is abomination before God. Nor is our wifdome 
todifpofe andmarinage matters refolved on, of greater 
ripencflc and perfeftion.Our owne counfell oft leads us a% 
* wry in things corporalljcither we milTe of the right man- 
ner, or ufc right meanes amifle, cither we Icane upon de- 
ceitful! props, or take a good ftaflFe by the wrong end. 
And if we be brought into diftrefle, then how are wee 
I plunged in our confultations, not knowing which Way 
to turne our felvcs. As for power to accomplifh any good 
worke, though never fo well conceived, though meanes 
never fo potent,fo ready at hand, fo well ordered :though 

the i 



duties ofourvocapon. 



the bu(ineflc be in never fo good forwardneffcjWe have it 
not. AlaSjpoorc impotent creatures, what can we doe of 
our fclvcs,who cannot keepe our breath for < nc moment? 
In God wee live, and move, and have our being : and bee 
that maintaincs life muft pcrfedl all our workes for uSi In 
matter of profit no man can fay, my power, my labour, 
the might of nr.y band hath gotten mc thiy. wealth. Nor 
in point of honour, By my policic I bavcboilded my neft 
on highjby the tlrength of my arme I have gotten mc the 
viiflorie. This weakncfle i-^ difcovered by faith, which in 
every bufinefie vvorkethielfe-deniall,knowing the begin- 
ning, dircftion, and fucceflc of allhoncft labours to be of 
grace. 

"Secondly, It teacheth fubmiiTion to Gods direftion, 
and depcndance'upon his helpcandaflfiftancc. It asketh 
counfell at the word, and followeth the determination of 
it. It chufeth what God approveth, though to humane 
wifdome it feeme bootleffe and improbable : it rej'cft th 
what God condcmncth, though to corrupt rcafon it pro- 
mife profit and contentment. For true confidence is obe- 
diential!, (ub/efting it felfe to tVe will of God as the rule 
of holineffc,acknowl€dging his fovera'igntie, fubfcribing 
to his wifdome as moft abfolute, and to his wayes as moft 
true, juft, and merciftill. 

And as it confulteth with God, fo itputtetboverall 
bufincfle into his hands, and in a manner our ot our owne. 
For it traftcth to him for ability to the workc, provifion 
ofthc meancs, the difpofition of them, and good fucccfle 
to come by them. Yea, though all meanes faile, and all 
things feeme to make againft the procecdings,faith relieth 
upon God, who fs cverlafting, unchangeable, the fame 
for ever.Tbe eye of faith is ever towards the Lord, * that 
he may inftru6l and gukle in the way ; that he would be 
with us to enable in the workc we take in hand. i\nd for 
the meanes, it looketh to have fuch mtniftr d which may 
advance our juft dcfignesjandcftcemethihcm moft preci- 
ous, which hce fhall put into our hands. --To provide 

meanes 



^91 



Detit.8.i7,iS 



Pfal.44 3 



2. 

20. 1 8.13.2?, 
Efay.S.ao. 



& 10. ig, 

Exod.4.1 1. 



3^8 



Thepro^s of 

this faith, 
I. 



2. 

Matth,io,»9, 
Pro.20.z4. 

Prov.i^.?. 

Pfal.37.f. 

A<ftf.i4.23. 



W&at ft is u Iwe hj Faith m the 

meanes is the workc of God : it onely belongs to us, to 
ufc them whichhc fliall grant in raercy . And feeing'wc 
hgvc not this wifcdome and ability of our fclves, faith ex- 
pecfleth both from the band of God, fcil, to prepare 
meanes, and make us wife to take the opportunitic 

The props of this faith arc thcfe two. 

Firft, The exaA infinite wifdomc of God, who know- 
cthwhat meanes will befit to bee ufed now, and what 
not, both for his glory, and the cftablifliing of the thins 
m hand : who knoweth what may hinder, and can cither 
prevent or fruftrate it : and who can knit fecondarie cau- 
ses one mto another, and make them confoire toecrher 
in.an admirable harmonie, which wee om lelves cannot 
doe. 

.^.^^°"^Jy»^o^s providence, which rules in every tbinp 
which falls out, even the leaft matters. Not a Sparrow 
tails to the ground but by his will. LMansa.inis are of 
the Lord, ^Hce difpofeth of every thing that concernes us 
and our affaires. The worke that we take in hand is not 
ourownc, but the Lords : and thefuccefle of the bufi- 
nefle doth depend upon his pkafurc, to whom it muft be 
committed. Let the Lord doc what feemcth him good. 
And he gives iflue, not according t© the fceming abilities 
of the pcrfons, or likelihood of the meanes ufed, but ac- 
cording to the good pleafure of his owne will. 

Thirdly, Faith thus underpropped bringeth forth in- 
dullrie. and mdeavour to obferve God in his providence. 
Hec that is moft confident to fpeed, is moft vigilant to 
take all opportunities, moft diligent to labour in the ure of 
all lawfuU meanes. Tor God, whoworkcthforus, will 
have us worke with him. Faith laycth hold upon the pro- 
mifes of aide and provifion with one hand, worketh with 
the other. Nothing can fo much encourage, quicken,con- 
hrme in paines-taking, as faith. The perfwafions of faith 
arc moft powerfull, the motives ft rong, the incoura^rc- 
ments effedtuall to put life and vigour into the dull alid 
liuggilh. Hec that belicveth will labour, and not make 

hafte. 



duties of our vocation. 



\ 399 



bafte. Hccthat diftruftcth not hispay-mafter isnotha- 
ftic to get the pay into his own hand : beeaufe he knowcs 
whom he hath trufted. ; -■ 

Fourthly, Paith cannot be filent, as hath bcenc rormer- 
ly obfervcd. Hee that believcth will pray. The. weaker 
he is in himfelfe, the more difficult his taskc.thc more fer- 
vent his fupplications. Q Lsrd, there is no firength in 
m, to ftandagaiitft thisgreat'feofle, that commethagaii^fl 
us neither doe wee kpove what to doe : but our eyes are to- 
Tvards thee. And if the worke fticke faft, and ftirre not at 
the firft,itpuHetb the harder : difficulties incite to earncfl: 
prayer. /» the morningwillldireBmeftntQ-theey and will 

Fiftly, It puttetb life and hardmcfle into us. It the 
worke be great, and our ftrength fraall,- faith biddcth us 
bee ftrong and play the men: for God will be with us for 
our fupport. Zehulon and T^phtali v:ere a people that 
jeoparded their lives unto the death, in the high places of 
the field. In the moft eafie worke faith will not fuffer to 
Icane upon our owneQrength : in grcateft difficulties it 
wii notdefpaire of the Lords aide. This is the ftay of faith j 
He will not leave thee:nor forfake thee.E very thing is too 
hard for us, if we relieupon cur felvcs : nothing too hard 
if we truft m the Lord, and goc forth in the power of 

Sixt^y,*It waitah upon God for good fucccfle, and 
triumpheth before the viftory. Commit thy wajes unto 
the Lord, and thy thoughts Jhall bee direBeA Faith loo- 
kcth to thepromife, and concludeth afikrcdly. The word^ 
of the Lord fliall never faile : The zealeoftbc Lord of 
hofts will bring it to pafle. ., /- jr 

Seventhly,Faith is ready and forward to praile God tor 
good fuccefle, as it is willing and defirous to obey. For it 
abafeth it felfe, looketh more and more into Gods admi- 
rable kindncffe,and is afhamcd of unthankfnlneffe. David 
promifcth to praife God three times, nay./even times in a 
day: that he would doe it openly in Uie Congregation, 

^ and 



4. 

V 

Judges. J I S, . 
loflnia. 1.5,9. 



6. 

Pro. 16. 3. 



'\:}-- 



7. 



400 



Pral.i«5«i3^» 



Jud.j.j,io,ii 



There be many 
promifei of 
Gods blefing 
his ordinances 
to his peoples 

good. 

Erayyj.1,253, 



Hkword' 



Pfal.i9.7j«. 



Hffia; te li'ue hj Faith in the ufe of 

and privately by himfcife : and yet, as though he had fop- 
got himfelfe.aJ3d becnc much behind others in this dutyjhe 
quickensth up himfelfe unto it : -Biep the Lord, o my \ 
fouk^m iaU that is mtUnmH, bh^e huholy Titjtme, The ! 
medication ot Gods name is fvvecf, the remembrance of \ 
his kindneffc is pleafaivt: the faithfuU eamot fatisfie them- ' 
fclves irr finging his prayfes; Hence it b that they ftirrc^p ■ 
themfclves and provoke others to magnifie the Lord My 
heart u towards tht Governmrs ^flfrael, that offered them- 
[elvesviiill'mgly<tmongthepeople;Bleffeyeeth€ Lord, Speake 
yee that r^dem white ^jfes, jee thatj^t in MgemeJ, and 
walke by the way. They that are delivered, from the noyfeof 
the<tArchers in thepUees of drawing water ; there JJhaU they 
rehear fe the righteopu aBs oftheLordfiven the righteous ^ds 
towards the inhabitants, of his viUages in Ifrael, " ' - >' tov ' 



CHAP. XI. 

How to h ve by Faith in the ufe of Gods Ordi- 

nances^^the Word and Sacra- 

ments, 

IN Scripture wereadc many promifes made to fachas 
A Ihali conlcionably hearken unto the Word, and receive 
the holy Sacraiiients, the fcales of the covenantor sracc ^ 
that God will blefle his owne Ordinances to their edifica- 

tion,conifort,ftrengtheningingrace,andeverlaftingfalva. 
tion Ho, every one that thirfteth .come jee to the waters, and 
toe that hath no money : Come yeeMy andeate^yea come.buy 
■mne animtlke wttheat money, and with out pnce : Wherefore 
doyeejpendmmey for that which is not bread ? and your la- 
bour for that which fatisfieth not ? Hearken dtligently unto 

^ff^deateyee that which is goo^.^ ani let your foible delight 
ttjelfe wfatnejje, Encline your eare, and come unto mee • 

hcare,^ndyourfonlefhalllive,The law of the Lord is perftd, 

^ con- 



Gods Ordirpafice^s, theWotdmd Sacraments. 



eetnvertjrtg tbefoule : the teftimonyef the Lord 'k fme^ ma-' 
J^ttg.rfifrthe fimple.The JlatHtej sf.the Lord are right rejoj- 
cihg the heart: thf Commaniements of the Lafd are pure^iM- 
Itghtmngtheeyes.ATHcifemmmUheAre ^-tviflittcreafe /ear- 
pifif:& a man of under ftandingjhall attame unto wife coun^ 
feli. Takefafi- holdofinfiruBioyii let her not gee ; • keepeher, 
ferjhe u thj life, {Juyfonneyheare thy fathers commander 
ijfenti andforfake not the lavf of thy mother-^ Bindetheni con. 
timaily upon thy heart, and tye them ahem thy neckf. When 
thoHgoeftt itfhaltleade thee • iivhen thotipepefi^itJhaM keepe 
thee, andrfhen thoU wakifi itjhalltalke mth thee. For the 
Commandemeni is a lampe, and theLavifU light : and re- 
proof es ofinfiruBion are thi way ef Uf^i ■ San Si, fie them 
4h^Mgh thy truth: thy^wordti trkfh. 'DoeH^twy words doe 
gcadto him that ffdlfeth uprightly? As new ^orne hahes 
dejtre the Jtncere milke of the Word , that yee may grorv 
thereby. This is confirmed* by the coiiiiJarifons j which 
are ufed to fct forth the ufc and profit of the word; as it 
is refembled to the lightj raine, dew, living water, wine 
and milke: •By the titles which ar&^iveii unto it • as 
it is called the word of this life , the word of this fal vati- 
on: and by the paffages of Scripture, which teflifie, that 
the word is able to fave our foulcs. Andnow ^Brethren, I 
^ommendptt to God^andto t^ewdfd of his grace jwUich uable 
i^i'mld'youHpyaudtogiveyoft dn mherkance ahfong-all th^ 
v^ycfjarefanSified; For after 'that in^'Mhwifkome of God, 
theyvorldbyvififdomeknew not C^od, it'ple^fed ^oh by the 
foolifhneffe of pre aching to fave i^$0f that' belii'O'e.' Take 
heednntfi thy f elf e ; and unto '-the M'o^yine :''cMtinffe /« 
them : far4n doing this thou^jhali both favi Wy'T^lfel 
and thvm that hearethee. H^herefere lay apart ait' ftlt hi- 
neffe, and fuper fixity of naughtineffe , and receive with 
meekene^e the ingrafted word, which is able t6 ftvve your 
foules.. 

; Thisalfoismanifeft of thfl Sacraments, which be truly 
called a vifible word, bccaufe that which is fpoken in the 
word to the carcjis in vifible fignes reprefentcd to our eyes 
"3;!ir. D d and 



— 



401 

Pro.i.f, 






John 17.17 

^ Efay 9. j^ 
Matth;4.ij. 
Deut. 1%. r,^ 
ZSch.14.8. - 
Ezek.47. p. 
Cant. a. J. 
Efay J J. 1,1, 
a Ad:s j.zo. 
Ads 15. a^. 

Ads 20. lu \ 



I Cor. I, a I, 



r Tim.4.16.. 



I 



James 'I .'ix, 



ments. 



402 



Rom.4< 1 1> 



I Pct.3.ii, 
Ads tt. i6. 

Col, 1.1 1. 
Rom.6.3, 



Pto.l,j4,Sf. 



Haw tttive ij Fmh in fk ufe of 

wnrdi^^f ° '"'''^•°f :^'^' '^'■*' 'hat having his 
word and feale we might be put out of doubt, thaf we 

and all his benefits, as we are of the outward (ignes of 
h.. covenant What the Apoftle faith of C rcumcifion 
that IS true of Sacraments in generall. They are S ^ 
>b'mhuoufncfe.ffM,h, or Of the covclntJZ"J 
And for the better affurance of the believer, thatfeS 
ving the out ward figne as he ought , hee fliall be partaker 
of the thing fignified, very oft fhat' which proS b^ 
longs to the thing fealed. is given toth: oufw^d ffsne 

nafttjme ; nxdthM we 4« buried nith Ckrifi h BattirL. . 
And the like of the Lords Supper , when IXTfcL 
didordameit, he fpeakmg ohhe Bread faid , Thi/^l 
Body , and of the Wine , This. umjEM.fth T^Z 

(■ n r^^? Promifes are firmc grounds,whcreuponthe faith- 
full foule may build this affiance, that by the fincerrand 
confdonable ufe of Gods holy Ordinances, die Word and 
Sacraments, he fhall be made wife unto falvation, confi7 
med in faith, ftrengtbcned in grace, rcfrefhedWrth mv 
and comfort,andpcf fcaed unto cverlafting happinc^ imi 
the fcnous medication, and remembrance of thcfe thi3 
IS e^ccccding profitable to quicken and encourage uifto 
cbearefull andconftant attendance upon God in & ordi 
naDces,that fo wc may indue leafon rcape the fwcct f rui> 
thereof. SUffedis the «4« that hcareth L : ^aukZ Z 

t7^/T' '^J'']Hffy'^\'^'f4s<>fmyd,orts, WorwL 
l^f^hme.finieth hfe'^(indjhaa<fbt^ine favour of t^ 
Did Chriftians oft and carncftly breath themfclves in me^ 
ditation on thofc great things, that God offcreth in the 
C^ofpdl. and his truth and faithfulnelTe to make eood 
whatfocverhehathfpoken : Did they fet before tfem* 
both the mercy ofiSod in ordaining the Sacraments for the 

ftrengthc- 



G^ds Ordinances, the Word and Sacraments, 



ftrengtheningof their faitb,andhis grace and faithfalnefle 
in bcftowing upon them frccly,that which he offereth and 
fcalcth unto them in thefe outward feales : Did they con- 
fidcr what he gratioufly promifeth in both, and exped: to 
be made partakers of them in the ufc of thofe ordinances; 
it would marvcloufly comfort , and quicken to the dili- 
gent ufe oPall holy meanes ordained of God for our pre- 
feiit comfort, quickening , andftrcngthening,and for our 
cvcrlafting falvation. 

This faith is neceffary ; for it availeth not to live under 
the Gofpell, and to be prefent at the adminiftration of the 
Sacraments, if they be not ufcd in faith- The word profi- 
tcth not, unleffefV he mlngicdivith faith in them that he are 
it. And the fame may be faid of receiving the Sacraments. 
Faith is the eyc,thc hand, the mouth, the ftomacke of the 
fou-c : by it we fee, Teccive,fced upon Chrift. Looke as at 
a feaftjthongh the Table be never fo richly furni{hed,yct if 
a man have neither hand, mouth, nor ftomacke, he is not 
fed thereby ; fo is it here. 

Nor is it fufl§cicnt to have faith,but it mud be cxercifed 
to receive that grace which the Word of God doth reach 
us with the fealc. It is not the having but the new exer- 
cifc of faith, which maketh us profitable hearers of the 
word,worthy receivers of the Sacramenr.Looke as a man 
may have a hand, and yet, if when a thing is reached forth 
to nim, he doe not put it out, nothing is received : fo we 
may have the grace of faith,and yet,if when God reacheth 
us the body and bloud of his Chrift, we doe not then awa- 
ken ir,<to lay hold on the grace God offereth, we fhall go 
away without receiving it. Or looke as at a feaft, though 
we nave a mouth, and there be plentituU provifion, if we 
will not open itjand take downe the fuftenance before us, 
we fhall rife empty ; fo though we have the mouth of 
faith,yct if we do not open it to God now offering to feed 
us, we fhall not get a crumme of grace. 
The Adls of faith be thcfe or the like. 
Firft> It teachcth to worfhip the true God purely : to 
D d 2 cfteeme 



405 



Its necejfaryto 
lively faith in 
the ufe of Gods 
Ordinances. 



tin Am of 
faith it the 
tife ofGeds 
Ordinances, 
I. 



404 



Efay 8.10. 



Efay 29. 13. 
Matth,!?.^. 

Jer.7 5i- 



MmtoMsfe 



/> theufe^ef 



2. 

pfai.ioj.4. 

I Chro.i6.ii. 

PfaL42.z. 
;Pfal.(53,i,a. 



Pfal, 54.1,2. 
j, Yerfc 3. 



Rev. 4. ^. 
a Cor. 3. 18. 



ilPi:<V&34.: 



cfl:ccfnc,approvc,and exercife that worfhip, & that alone 
which he ptefcribeth ♦ for faith looketh to the revealed 
will of God, as the rule of all acceptable fccviGe,.>afid to 
the promifes, as the grounds of comfort ^ and good fuc- 
ceffe. It tenders unto God, what he rcquireth.; and loo- 
keth unto God to receive what he is pleafed, & hath pro- 
mifedto give. But God will not accept that woriLip, 
which he h^th not appointed, por.woirke effcdually by 
the devices of men. No piety, comfort, or true devotion 
is, or can be ftirred up by humane traditions : for as they 
aredeftitute of commandement for their rule, fo are they 
of promife, that God will kindle or quicken by them any 
fparkle of knowledge, faith, invocation, thankfulnefle,or 
other laving niotions of heart.' ; : ' >:n: \ ; ; ; ■: ;. • . ,"' 
' -'■' Secondly^ It ddighteth greatly to behold the face of 
God in his fanftuary. When thou faideft, Seeks jee my 
face, my heart [aid Pinto thee yThy face ^ Lor^ will I feekf, 
when Jh all J come and appeare before God, O God, thou 
,art my G od, early will I feehe thee: my fottle thirfieth 
forihee,tnyflejhiongethforthee,iniftdrie and thirfiy land, 
where no water u : To fee thy power and glory, foas I have 
feene thee in the SanBui^y. How amiable are thy taberna- 
cles^ O Lardofhofis ? tjlfy foule lo}f.geth,yea ev'en.fainteth 
for. the courts of the Lord: myhear.t,apd.my.fiejhcryeth 
out for the limng G'di,.Ble^ed are they that 'dwell in thy 
hoftfe. The Leviticall worfhip was as a. glaffe more 
dimmc,in which they beheld the face of the LordobfcUfe- 
ly : the Word and Sacraments are to Chriftians as a cicare 
glaffe,in which as. with open face we behold the glory 
rof God in Chrift. Chrift is prefent with us , as- lon^ as 
we hold his publike worfbip : lie is found , when we re- 
cover it having beene loft. Then doth the face of the 
Lord fliine upon usjwhen he offers himfelfe unto his peo- 
ple to be feene in his publike worfliip : the pure ancf un- 
defiled exerciles of piety. And from hence fprineeth the 
willingnes of the Saints,to waite continually at the poftcs 
of wifdomes gates, to heare her wordsjtheir earneft con- 
tention 



Goiis Ordinances, theWord and Sacraments. 



tcntion and ftudy to prefervc,niaintain, uphold, & fet for- 
ward the pure worfhip of God, & to favcor free it from 
the droflc of fiiperftitioas vanities , which obfcutc the 
cleare light of the Lords countenance, and to reftorc it ac- 
cording to the patterne, ifonce it fall ; and their diligent 
cnquirie after Chrift, if his face be hidden from them, or 
his worfliip be polluted with Idolatry, Tell me (O thou 
whom mj [otile loveth) where thoufeedefi , where thou ma- 
hB thjflockf to refi at no one : for why (hould I bee oi one 
that ^ vaile^yamonaH theflock^s of thy companions ? Why 
fliould I be as a woman wafting her felfe with forrow 
& griefe,whiles I feeke thy prefence in thine ordinances. 

Thirdly, It fceketh acquaintance with God, and the 
knowledge of his will in Chrift Jefus. Without fome 
knowledgeof God in Chrift, and of his word going be- 
fore, there can be no faith : but faith endcavoureth theen- 
i creafc of knowledge : It crycth after knowledge, and 
Ufteth up the voice for underftanding : It feekcth her as 
(liver, and fearcheth for her as for hid trealiires. (Jl'/y 
fmlebreakethfor the longing that it hath unto thy judge- 
went s ^ at all times. CMake meeto underfiand the way of 
thy precepts ^ fo pjall I meditate or talke of thy wondrout 
workes, * This is implied in the phrafe of feeking God, 
which fignifieth to bend all their ftrength and power to 
know , acknowledge and worfhip God aright. Know- 
ledge is pleafant to the believing foule , and wifedome 
delighteth the heart. Children covet fwecte meatcs, be- 
caufe they pleafe the tafte ; and the believer defires the 
knowledgeof God and his word, becaufe it is £weetc 
and dcare unto him. God in Chrift is the objedt offaith ; 
the matter, wbatfoevcr is revealed of God to be received 
or believed ; and faith it felfe is more ftrong,and the ope- 
rations offaith more lively and comfortable, as thefe are 
better knowne. And from this defirc it commeth,that the 
believer doth apply himfelfe to attend unto the word of 
truth, ponder it ferioufly , and treafurc it up fafc, that it 
might not overflip him. 

__^^^^^^ D d 5 Fourthly,\ 



405 



Cant.i«7. 



Rom, 10. 14. 



Pfal.iip.zo, 

Vetfe 27, 
^Plal.^.io. 
& 49.16. 
PfaI.iof,4. 
EfayjS.z. 



Ads 1 6. 1 4. 

Luke a. 5 1, 
Heb.i x,s. 



. -A 



^0$ 



E)Cllt,L0.10. 

Joh.6.5i,?4« 
« pral.xi9-3*' 
(ijasi.i>2ii> 



Jcr.xjxn 
1- 



Geh.4.4. 

Heb.ii.4, 

Pfal.42,,4, 



How t$ live Ifj Fmh in the ufe of 



Fourthly, It glacth the heart dofc to the word, rc- 
ccivctb and pofleffcth the good things promifed , and 
cbangctb the difpofition of foule into the nature of the 
Word.Faith « followethhard after the word till it be made 
our owne,and its lively Character ftamped upon the foule: 
It '' feedeth upon every part of the word, getteth intereft 
in every pronnife,and lucketh vigour and /uycc out of it. 
By faith w» <= fticke clofe unto the word, arid ^ the word 
doth fticke, or is ingrafted into us. 

And to the end we might poflefle the pearle of the 
Gofpell , and be feafoned with the dodrinc o^ grace 
throughlv , faith rcnounceth all intereft in the iufts of the 
flc{h,ancl things of this life. It carncftly pondereth and 
mcditateth upon the great things of the laWjto worke the 
heart to an holy efteeme of the excellent and heavenly 
things contained in it, and to a gratious affedation of eve- 
ry duty therein required^^A-nd it importuneth the Lord by 
true prayer, without hypocriticall halting or ftarting afide, 
thathe would be plealed to write his law in our heartJ, 
and keepe us ftedfaft unto him, that we may never depart 
from his fearc. For by faith we cleave faft unto God ; but 
it is God that knitteth us unto himleUe : e^if the girdle 
I cleaveth to the loynes of a man , fg have I tyed unto mee 
the whole houfe of Ifraell , that they might bee my peo- 

FiftIy,Itquicknethto'ferveGodin the ufe of all his 
ordinances with diligence, cheerefulnefle,a«d beft endea- 
vour. By faith t^^be/ brought of he firftlings of his 
fiockc . and of the fat thereol an offering to the Lord. 
By faimD^z/^V went with the multitude unto the houfc 
of God, with the voice of joy and praile: faith can neither 
be cloyed with Gods prefence, nor account any Icrvice 
too good for him.The voice of faith is,I will fing and give 
praife with the beft member that I have flow {hould he 
be negligent in the ufe of any ordina iccjwho fecth God in 
his whole worlliip, and findeth comi-ort, tafteth (wect- 
neffe in every part. Wee fee by experience , tjie defire 

of 



G$(is Ordinances, the Word and Sacraments. 



of gainc drawes men to rife early, reft late, toyle 
hard in any bii{ine{re that may bring in commodity : Eut 
faith bcgettcth an unfatiable. operative.conftant third and 
defireof fpirituall things which makes the believer in- 
duftriousintheu eofall meanes, whereby his treafure 
may be encreafed. Looke as the Merchant takes paines to 
enrich himfclfe, and encreafe his fubftance ; fo doth the 
faithfull f oulc to get pofleflion pf the true treafure. Lively 
faith,and barning iovc towards the Lord,lodge both toge- 
ther, which bring forth paines and forwardneffe in the 
workes oK holineffe, wilUngneffe and delight to plcafe 
him in all things. 

More particularly it may be inquired, How parents in 
faith (hould prefent their children unto baptifmc , What 
ufe Chriftians fliould make of their baptifme, when they 
come to age and difcrction 5 And how we arc to receive 
the Lords Supper in faith. 

The dedication of a childe to God, is a worke of fingu 
lar and great importance, one of the weighticft fervices 
we can take in hand^though (we may fcare) it is confidcr- 
ed of few. For to fay nothing of the ignorant and profane 
iortjwbo favour not the things of God, and therefore can 
have no reverent regard to the (ealcs of the covenant how 
manyT)e tTiere of better hopes,well inftrudled in the prin- 
ciples of rehgion, diligent frequenters of Gods Ordinan- 
ces, and carefull to beautifie their profcffion with an holy 
converfation, who did never diftin^ly, and in good ear- 
ned confidcr of this matter? when yet they muft needs ac 
knowledge, that it cannot be well done as it ought, if it be 
not done in faith. 

The aAs of faith in this particular bee thefc, and fuch 
like. 

Firfl, It calleth to remembrance the free and gratious 
covenant which God hath made with the believing pa- 
rents and their pofterity. I am thy Cod ^ and the God of 
thjfeeJe, For the proptife is made unto you, and to your 
childretty and to aU that areafarre ojf, even at many as the | 

D d 4 Lord\ 



407 



Efay <;4.4, 
com wit'i 
I Cor.t.9, 



Paretitf Jhould 
in faith prefent 
their Child to 
God in Bap- 
rifme. 



The a!ts of 
faith in this 
particular, 
I, 

G.en.17.7,9. 
Aft* 1.39, 



4o8 



3. 



1% S2m<7,t7' 



How U live by Faith i» the ufe of i 

Lordjar G,dMj:»U^ which covenant.as it is made with 
the parentsand chcir fed . fo doth the faith of the parent 

tor his fcede. And this is the ground of that tender rnhirh 
aChriftian makes of his Child unto holy BaSc For 
by naturallgenerationtbe Children of believing parents 
are defiled with finne, and founder wrath : bSeTrre 
holy by covenant and free acceptation, the believing na 
rent embracing the mercifull promife of Godfor himfSfe 
andforhispofterity. Infants are not borne ChrSsbv 
na turall birth, but made Chriftians by vertue of"he cov^! 

?:Wm%X"arer""^"'^'"="P°"°'^^^™^^ 

fefve?m?/^r ''/''I'' r''^ 'l'"'™^ P^^rents muftgive them- 
lelves unto God, chufing him to be their portion, and re 
fign ng tbemfelves in alhhings tobe guided by bis word 
m all eftates and conditions.fie t.hat lould give his d,ilde 
unto God, muft give himielfe firft. I, it p^obabefhat 

??*""■] t™lydefire,andIong after the prefermen of 
hischildeinthe Kingdome of grace here, and Srv 

hereafter,whowillnotenterhiSfeIfe,norfubmithifw S 
tbe&r''''r. -"'."^S'^^' ■ The promife is mJcto 
the faithfull; and that faith one'y, which drawes a man 
toyeeldupfouleandfaody.asa fiWng facrificertoGod 
pleafingandacceptable unto his Mafefty, doth auick^n , 
P5="«™^.fin«rely, freely, and s he ought^o make 
tender of his childe unto God. ^ ^^^ i 

!„nPr''i^,;'lP''°^°''"'' P"'"'' f° °ff" tbeir children 
unto Qod by hearty and unfained prayer, affoone as ev^ 
they have received them from himf Gods P omife t„ 1/ 
ceptourchildre„,calleth for prayer and fK rio„ o^ 

ZW^l r^-'Ti*^- Thus©„».areafoneth, Thm.o 
I;or<iofhoflsg,dofIfraettMjl revealed t, th, ferZnt 
^^n.'^mumhee .„y.fe: therefore hJhtlyt;. 

And fo Ihould every Father.O Lord.thou haft covenanted 

to 



Gods Ordmncesj the Wordaf^d Sacraments. 

to be mjr God, and the God oFmy pofterity,therefore am 
I bold to intreat thy Fatherly acceptance of my pooreln^ 
fant. 

Fourthly,. It confidereth what a fingular prerogative it 
is, to be adtuaily admitted into covenant with God, re- 
ceived into his family, and to have his name put upon us ; 
to be partaker of the feale of regeneration, remilTion of 
ilnnesj adoption, and everlafting inheritance; folemnely 
to be made free of the fociety of Saints , and weare ther 
Lords badge and livery. And what an high and incom- 
prehenfible mercy it is, that God hath promifcd , and 
doth vcuchfafe thefc great and ineftimable bleffings, not 
onely to himfclfe a miferable and wretched finner,but alfo 
to his pofterity , who by naturall generation are enemies 
to his Highneffe, dead in trefpafTes, and in bondage unto 
thccurfeofthclaw^ Withthefeor the like meditations 
of faith, beh'eving parents muft prefcnt their children 
unto Baptifme,that they might receive the fcalc of rege- 
neration, remiflion of {inncs,and fpiritualllibertyjthat the 
Name of God might be fet upon them, and their names 
regiftredamongfl: the free Denifonsof the heavenly le- 
rufalem. And fervent cfteduall prayer doth accompany 
this admiflion, that God would be pleafed to accept the 
party baptized for his cbilde by grace and adoption, re- 
leafe him of his fins, and make him partaker of his everla- 
fting kngdome. Faith bclieveth what God promifeth^ 
as he promifcth it ; and beggeth fervently , what he gi- 
veth freely. 

Fif tly , It ftirreth up hearty rejoycing in the Lord, that 
he hath vouchfafed in tender compaffion to lookc upon 
the m,and their pofterity, and thus to honour and advance 
them : for the trueft Nobility is to be made a Chriftian, 
and to live in favour with God. A worldly Father wou^d 
muchrejoyce, if his cbilde fhould be preferred to fome 
chiefe Office in the Princes Court,alToone as it was borne; 
A Chriftian Father hath much greater caufc of joy, that 
he is admitted, not as a iervant, but as a fonne and hcire, 

into 



40P 



4. 



4IO 



^. 



Mar.io.if,x^ 



By faith me 
Jhould makt 
right ufe oj our 
Saptijme, 



How u Ihe hy Faith in the ufe of 

into the Court of the grcar King of Heaven and Earth, 
If parents can compafle but a Lcafc of fame Farme for 
thcmfclves , and theirs , they arc glad : and fliall they 
notrejoycc, that God bath by covenant and icals pal- 
fed the grant of the Kingdomc of Heaven to them and 
theirs ? 

Sixtly, It ftirrcth up parents to be diligent and carefull 
to bring up their children in information and feare ot the 
Lord, being inftant with God to bleflc their endeavours 
for the good of their children, and the glory of his name. 
For thus faith perfwadeth : Thy childc is not thine , but 
the I*ords ; thou haft dedicated him unto the lervke of his 
Majefty, and he, from whom thoureceivcdft him at firft, 
hath committed him to thy charge, to be trained up in 
his feare. It is a great honour to be trufted with fuch a 
charge, and it is a fearefull finne to neglcd fo great a truft. 
Wilt thou confecrate thy childe to God this day , and 
leave him to the Devill for ever after ? Wilt-thou teach 
him a trade, that he might live as a Man, and not teach 
him the way of godlincffe , that hec might live as a Chri- 
ftian ? Didft thou not undertake for bis education in the 
true Religion, and wilt thou negled the performance of 
that folemne oath? Chrift commanded the children of 
Chriftian parents to be broaght unto him : and wilt thou 
prefent them untaught, and ignorant of the Chriftian 
h\z\ ? The feme confcience, which moved parents to of- 
fer their children to Baptifme, will quicken them to en- 
deavour their education in the true taith, and fcrvice of 
God. 

Baptifme is a feale of the covenant betwixt God and us; 

of Gods promife tons that he will be our God,and of our 

^romife to bim, that we will be his people, repent of our 

(insjbelieve in Chrift, ^ walke before him in fincere obe- 

dience.For fignificationj force, ufe and fruit it continucth, 

I not for a moment of time , but ?or the whole courfe of a 

1 mans life. It doth refpert not oncly the time paft,and pre- 

jfent, but that which is to come 3 yea, that whole time a 

» man 



411 



Gcds Ordnances y the Word and Sacraments, 

man hath to fpcnd, from the very ad oi his Baptifmc, to 
his death. For as it is the fcalc of a free, cverlafttng , un- 
changeable covenant j fo is the force and ufe of it perpe- 
tuall. Baprifmc is the true Sacrament of repentance, for 
remiflion of finncs , and fpirituall renovation , which 
being once received , remaincth a perpetual! teftimo- 
ny and pledge of the everlafting Covenant of God, and 
eontinuall wa{htng away of finne by the bloud of Chrift, 
and the Spirit of fanftification. By fingular appropria- 
tion it rcprefentCvh and confirmeth oar engrafting into 
ehrift, but withall it fealeth the whole Covenant of 
grace. 

The ufcofBaptifme is twofold. Firft, It fervestobee 
a pledge and token of Gods favour , and that divers 
wayes. 

Firfl:, In that it is a fcalc of our regeneration by the ho- 
ly Spirit , whereby a divine quality is infuled into us, in 
the roomc and place of originall corruption. And f here- 
fore Baptifme (as the text is ordinarily expounded} is cal- 
led the Uver of regeneration : it being an ufuali thing 
to cal the principall caufe,and the inftrument by the fame 
name. 

Secondly, It fealeth and confirmeth unto ns the free 
pardon and forgiveneffe of our fins. Rrpmt andbe baptized 
every cneofjoHin the Name oflefm Chrifi^fortheremiJJion ^'-^•*' S^* 
of fins, ^yirife andbe baptizedyandrvajh awaj thy ^nnestCal- \ Ad.az. 1 
iin^ on the 2^me of the Lord, 

Thirdly, Baptifme is a pledge of the vertuc of Chrifts 
dcathjand of our ♦^^ellowlbip therein. Z> op jee not know tbAt 
all we^yvho have beene bapi<edinto lefm Qhrift^havcbeene 
bapttK^dinto hii death f 

Fourthly,It is alfo a pledge of the vertue of Chrifts 
life, a d of our communion with him therein. The life of 
Chrift is the life of cvfry believer, who liveth in Chrift, 
fhaU live for ever with him, and in hrm x a certaine 
pledge whereof he bath given us in this Sacrament. For if 
we have beene planted together in the Ukenes of his death: ree 

fhali 



Theu/etob& 
made of our 
B^iptifme « 
two-fold. 

I. 
I. 



Titusj.f, 



2, 



J. 
Ron3.<S.j* 



Hom^.f. 



412 

Col.Z.I2. 



Gen,48.i^. 



Gal.j. 26,17. 



6. 



I Cor.12.13. 

Ephef.4,J. 



Mack 1^.1 5. 
Titus 5.5,^,7* 
1 Pet.j.ai. 



How t6 live hj Faith in theufe cf 

j^all he alfointhe likene^e of hii refmreBion. Buried with 
htm in -Baptifme wherein a '(oyeH are rifen with him,thrm<rh 
thefatth of the operation ^fGod, who hath raijed htm frtm 
the dead. 

V\ii\y, Baptifme is a pledge of our adoption in Chrift 
By nature wee are the children of wrath : but by 
grace and adoption the Tonnes of God, through faith in 
Cnrill ; which is fealed in Baptifme, wherein the name of 
the Father, Sonne, and holy Spirit is pat upon us When 
Ucob bleflbdthe fonnes cf lofe^h, Epbraim zndManaf, 
ps, iaym^, Let w/name he named on them -, he adopted 
r them for his fonnes, to have inheritance with them in the 
Imdot Canaan: and when God putteth his name upon 
us, hefignifiethandaflureththat we are his fonnes. 7>^ 
are ali the children of God By faith in Chnfi hfm. For as 
many of you , as have beene bapti<,edinto Chrifijhavepm on 
Chrifi, 

Sixthly, Baptifme is a folemne tcftiraohy of our com- 
munion with all the hvely members of Chrift Jcfus. It is 
afeale of the bond of mutuall love and fcUowfhip/both 
of Chrift with his members, and of his members one 
with another. For by one Spirit are wee all baptized into 
one body ^ whether wee be lewes or gentiles, whether wee 
bee bond or free : And Baptifme is one of thofe things 
whereby the unity ofthc Spirit is preferved in the bond 
of peace. 

Seventhly, It is a fealc and pledge to aflure, that God 
will provide for us \h this life, raifc up our bodies unto 
life at the laft day of Judgement, and befto vv upon us that 
evcrlafting Kingdome and Inheritance, which hee hath 
prepared. For in Baptifme the Lord doth promifc to be 
our God, that he will provide us of all things ncceflary 
for foule and body, turnc all evils which doe befall in this 
eiiferable life, to the furtherance of our falvation, raifc up 
our bodies at the laft day, and receive us unto himfelfe to 
dwell with him for evermore. 

In all which refpeds Baptifme is of great force to 
ftrengthcn 



Gcds Or d nances ) the Werdand Sacraments. 

ftrengthen faith, and cafe the heart in diLlrcflc. For when 
the repentant OnncrFeeleshimflFe heavy laden with the 
burden of his finref} vthenSathan tempts him to doubt 
or defpaire in regard of his cor; uptions 4 iwhen his owne 
corruption moveth him to finne,andhe is even now in the 
combate, the Spirit lufli.g againft the flefh and the fiefh 
lufting againft the Spirit j and when he is deeply perplex- 
ed with fcare of falling away t then the confideration and 
remembrance of what was proraifed , and fealed in Bap- 
tifme williervetoftay, fupport, and comfort the foulc. 
For there he fhallfinde that his name is written in the co- 
venant of God, that God bath promifed to give Chrift to 
be his Redeemer, to accept of Chrifts fatisfadion for him, 
to wafli away all his fins, as certaincly as the water wa- 
flieih away the filth of the body ; and having fuch a faith- 
full promife confirmed by feale , wherefore Ihouldhe be 
difmayed? In Baptifmealfo God hath fealed unto him 
the mortification of his finnc by the power of Chrifts 
death : which is ground of ccnfidcnce,diat God will cna» 
ble him to overcome the rebellious luilsof his heart, and 
crucifie the old man more and more, untill the body of fin 
be utterly deftroycfl. True it is, that man by nature is dead 
in finne *. bdt in Baptifme, God of his mercy hath fealed 
unto the. believer, his rifing from the death of finne to 
newncffe of life.Trus it is,tbat of our felves wc arc prone 
to fall away from grace received : But God of his rich 
grace fealeth unto the faithfull in Baptifme a Refurrcdion 
unto immortall life , which fliall grow daily , but never 
decay. . / -. 

If the faithfull be afflided,and dcfpifed of mcn,peTfc-u- 
ted and forfaken, caft out of the vifible Congregation, a d 
banifhed from the houfe of God : yea, even in the agonies 
of death; the remembrance of the promifes fealed in 
Baptifme, will afford comfort. For if men have forftkcn, 
Ood hath received them ; If men fcorne and contemnc, 
the Lord will acknowledge them. He hath long agoe 
fealed them for his ownc, received them into his family, 

under 



4^3 



Rom. ^.9, 10. 



414- 



II. VfC 



I. 



Marke x 4. 



How t9 live Ify Faith in the ufe of 

undertaken to provide for thcci , and adopted tbcna as 
heires apparantto the Kingdome of Heaven. If God had 
given them his word alone for fecurity , it had becne fuf- 
ficient ; But having confirmed it by feale in Baptifme, 
they have great caufe to reft affured. True it is they may 
be caft out of the vifible affemblies, but they can never be 
cut ofFfrom the invifible Communion of Saints •. They 
muft die , but God hath fealed unto them their rifing 
from the _grave to everlafting life, by the power and vcr- 
tueofChrifls Rerurrc(5iion : which is a comfort oi all 
comforts, able to uphold the foule of man in the hourc of 
death. 

The fecond ufe of Baptifme , it is a feale of our du- 
ty promiled , and fo a fpurre and provocation to re- 
pentance , faith , new-obedience , brotherly love , and 
unity. 

Firftj It is a fpurre to repentance and mortification: for 
Baptifme doth feale remiilion of linnes to them only that 
repent, and by godly forrow come home unto God. And 
as we expert the blciling,wc rauft looke that we failc not 
in the condition. If we be buried with Chrift in Bap- 
tifme, it is our duty to mortifie the flc{h with the affefti- 
1 ons and lufts, that it may live no longer , to bring forth I 
I fruits unto death. For a dead man cannot live. By fo- | 
I Icmne oath we arc bound to crucifie unruly luftj, which 
fight againft the foulc : and {hall we falfifie fo great a pro- 
mife ? Againft whom ftiould we fight, if not againft Sa- 
than ? or what will he be willing to fpare for the Lords 
fake , who will not part with his finnes ? Why {hould 
v*/efeare the ftrength of Sathan, the power of finne, 
the rage of perfccutors , the loflc of earthly things ? 
or defpaire becaufe of the wrath of God /uRIy kindled 
againft finne. IfweturncuntoGod by unfained repen- 
tance, we have his faithfull promife confirmed by feale, 
that he will be mercifull unto our finnes, enable us to 
overcome our corruptions, fortific us againft the powers 
ofHcll,fupport us under, or deliver us out of all trials, 
^_ and I 



Gods Ordnances, the WordandSAcrAmems. 



and gratioLifly provide whatfocvcr ihali be ncedefull 
for us. 

Secondly, It \s a provocation unto faith, and a pledge 
thereof. We have the promifc of God under his hand and 
feale, that he will walh as from our iniquities , receive us 
for his children, remember our necelJities , beftow upon 
us the Kingdome of Heaven : weflialldoe great wrong 
anddiflionourtoGod,if wedoubt or ma«e queftion, 
whether he will performe promife freely madcjand con- 
jBrmed by covenant and feale. We arc bound by com- 
mandement to believe in Jcfus Chrift, and to commit our 
fclvcs wholly unto him, as unto a faithfull Saviour : And 
we have bound our fclves by promife,covenant and feale, 
that we will believe and cleave unto him, as our only Sa- 
viour ; fhall we then goe backe, grow rcmiffe, cr give 
way to doubting ? If doubtings ari/e , through the light 
offinnc, orwantof lenfe and feeling comfort, or ihc 
world begin to crccpe into the heart , and divide it from 
Chrift, let us then remember, we have troth-plighted 
our felves to Jefus Chrift, and by faithfull promife,nevcr 
to be called backe, given our felves wholly to reft , and 
fticke clofc unto him : and therefore muft admit no 
thought, whereby we fhould be drawnc afide^ or divided 
from him. 

Thirdly, It is an incitement unto new obediencc,and a 
^tdi^z^zxto''l,Weea,rehHrte(iyfithhim by 'Bafttfrne into 
death, that like as Chrifi rvas raifed up from the dead, by 
tkt glfry of the Father : Evenfo yvte alfo Jhould walks 
innevpnefeofUfe: in which Chapter the Apoftlc difput. 
teth of our anions, that we {hould abftainc from evill 
and follow thofe that arc good. We have folemnely 
fworne to fight againft the Devill, the World, and the 
Fle{k; and having taken the preffe-money of Jefus 
Chrift , it were an itnmortall difgrace to accept of truce 
with Satban. Wee carry the badge and livery of ]efus 
Chrift, and fliall we foi fake our colours, and fight for the 
DevilU It is ftrange, that children (hould leave their pa- 
rents 



415 



2. 



3. 

Rom.6.4. 



J^i6 



■*Thne)!v exer- 
\cife of faith re- 
-quired m the 
tyerthyrecei' 
ving the Lords 
Suj^per. 



thj AUs Qf 
:fdith in thii or- 
idinance,. 



' HoTV to the hj Faith in the uje of 

rents and take part with their enemies ; Wee have given 
onr fclves unto God , and were once dedicated unto his 
fervice;ftiaU wc now turnc backhand offer bur felvcs un- 
to Sathan ? Honour is due unto parents ; It God be our 
Father, we muft freely fubmit our felves to his will and 
pleafurc. God will ftr^ngtbcn us to obey, and accept of 
wcake, if fincere obedience : and that (hats forth all place 
of excufeJf we be engrafted into the (imilitude of Chrifts 
refurred:ion, we muft CKprefle by our adions the power 
and likeneffe of Chrifts refurredf ionjwhich is done,when 
wc walkc in ail-pleafing before Godjsnd fet our affedions 
upon things above.And this,as it is commanded on Gods 
part, fo it is fealcd on our part in Baptifme, 

Fourthly, It is a pledge or pawne of love and unity. 
We muft keepc the unity of the fpirit in the bond of 
peace ; for wc arc all baptized into one body. Wee muil 
not j'arrcjfor we arc brethren : We muft not quarrell nor 
contend, for wc are members of the fame body, and have 
beenc fealed into the fame body. It goeth ill with the na- 
tural I body, when thc/oynts arediffolvcd : it is u'nnatu- 
tall that the members of the body myfticall fhould be di> 

* It is not the having faith, but the new exercifc of 
faith, which maketh us worthy receivers of the Lords 
Supper. 'XhtCorinthUnshz.di faith, yet received not the 
grace of the Sacrament, becaufe they received not in 
faith. 

Thea(5ls of faith in receiving the Lords Supper are 
many. - . . '^ . 

FirftjBy it wc difcernc the Sacrament to be the holy 
Ordinance of God, inftituted for our fDCciali good ana 
benefit, fealing unto us the promi fes, which God of his 
free mercy hath made unto us in Jefus Chrift , By faith we 
underftand what promifes God hath made, for what 
caufe, in whom he hath made them, what he requiretb,; 
& how he hath fealed his free promifes in the Sacrament. 
And the certaine, diftindl, cleare, effcd:uall knowledge of 

.^ this 



Gods Ordinmces^he Wvrd dnd Sacraments, 



Ms potiir,ts a^matter offiiigular ^nd great impoFtancc.For 
if worldly men m^kc good account of a fufficient mans fc- 
curity for'fomc great fumnle dt itoridy ; in what efteeme 
Mil a Chriftian have this fledge of Gods f avour,wben he 
certainly under Hands what it doth fignifie and afTiire ? 

Secondly, By it we fee what the Lord doth offer unto 
us therein, how excellent and precious it is, with what 
aflurance it is freely tendered, and may be received. The 
outward fignes in the Sacrament are vifible to the bodily 
eye : but the inward grace fignified and fcaled thereby, 
which mufl; ferioufly be confidered and minded of uj,is not 
manifeft, but to the underftanding enlightned by the Spi- 
rit,ahd feafoned by faitb,which onely can Judge diftinftly 
of its worth and excellencic. :..,... >,, 

Jhirdly,It fharpeneth fpirituall appetitCjand ftirrcth up 
hungring & thirfting after Chfifl:,and his benefits* By faith 
we fee our want, by faith we tafte how good the Lord is, 
how fweccand plcafantthe dainties hee hath prepared j 
which raifcth an appetite of defire, and complaeencie. O 
God, thou art mj God, early mil I feekethee ■: mjfoule 
thirfiethfor thee^ my fiejh longethfor thee. The Sacrament 
of the Lords Supper is a great and fpirituall feaft.wherun- 
tothc faithfull arc invited ; and faith whettech the fpiri- 
tuall appetite to long after, and rellifh thefatneffeand 
marrow, which is there provided. ; .- 

Fourthly, It earneftly contcndeth for mercy, confelfing 
Cm with gricfe and hatred, judging and condemning it 
freely, unfainedly begging pardon with ftrengthofgrace 
to withftand fin for the time to come. Whenfoever faith 
commeth to receive the feale of pardonjitpleadethguilty, 
humbleth for tranfgreffion, and intreateth forgivcnefle of 
undeferved mercy, that grace might be magnified in fbr- 
givenefTc. 

Fiftly,By faith we receiveChrift offering himfelfc free- 
ly to be contracted unto us.Chrift maketh love as a fuitcr, 
and hath given the Sacrament as a token of his love and 
faithfiilnefTc : faith apprehendeth the mifcrie of the foule 

E e with- 



417 



3. 



Pfal.5j. 



I. 



4i8 



6. 



Rom. 7 .4. 



, 7- 



8. 



Cant.}. 1^.1 



H,tfir ^<? livz bj Faith in the ufe of 

without Chriftjthc excellent dignity jhoiour and beauty of 
Chrifl:, and the happincfle of the lou^e which is united un- 
to him jand thereupon humbly embraceth his offer of love. 
Sixtly, By faith wee refigneup our fclvcs unto Jcfus 
Chrift,and willingly yeeld foule and body unto him. This 
the nature of the matrimoniall contraf^, which paderh be- 
twixt Chriib, and the believer, requircth : forasChrift 
promikth to be a Saviour,Head and Huiband unto the be- 
liever :fo doth he troth-pligh: himfclfe unto Jefus Chrifl:, 
to cleave unto him as his onely Saviour j and in all things 
to be obedient unto his will and pleafure. jfherefore my 
brethrefi^ yee are alfo become dead to the Law by the body of 
Chrifl, thatyejhould be married to another^eventohim who 
ii raifed from the dead, that Kve Jhoald bring forth fruit unto 
God, 

Seventhly, paith feedcth upon Chrift, and fucketh vi- 
gour from him. His fiejh is msate indeed, and his b loud is 
drinke indeed. Mcate to be eaten, not with the teeth,but by 
faith. Meatc indeed, not in nature,but in t&di, becaufe it 
nourirheth the foule, andgiveth eternall life to them that 
eate thereof And by faith we fpiritually eate the fleih of 
the Sonne of Man, and drinke his bloud. And as he that 
cateth whoHome foodjis flrengthcned thereby,and made 
fit and able for the aflions of this life ; fo he that fecdeth 
upon Chrifl: fpiritually and by faith, is ftrengthened to the 
.adiions of fpirituall life,and made able for the cxercifcs of 
piety and holinefle. 

E ightIy,Faith affureth of that fpirituall contradl which 
hath paffed betwixt Chrifl: and the Chriftian foule, and is 
fealcd in the Sacrament ; fo that he may truly fay, CMj 
beloved is mine, and I am his. As a couple, who have la w- 
: fully given faith to each other, and confirmed the fame by 
' pledge or token in th; congregation, are afTurcd of each 
other :fo when we have contracted our felves unto Chrill, 
and received the pledge thereof,we come to be aflared by 
faithjthat Chrift is ours, and that we have communion in 
all ihe benefits of his death and paflion. Thus faith reafo-.. 

neth. 



Gods Ordimnces^the Word and SAcraments, 



neth, God the pather bath freely promifcd the pardon of 
all finnes in and through Jefus Chrift ; Chrift doth offer 
himfelfe as a Redeemer to deliver them from the power 
of darkenes, and to bring them into perpetuall grace with 
his Father, to wafh them from their fmnes by his bloud 
and fpirit,and to preferve and nourifh them unto life eter- 
nal), who will receive and believe in him. And being fo 
lovinsly called and invited, I have received the mercifuH 
promiif, and refigned my felfe unto Jefus Chrift ; why 
then {hould I ftand in doubt ? I hcare the word of pro- 
mife I fee and have received the fcales annexed to the 
Word of grace, the true and faithfull teftimony of God 
confirmed by oath, and I may not qucftion his truth, nor 
draw backe from mine owne promife to reft upon, and 
cleave unto him for evermore. , ^ , ^, .,^ 

Ninthly, Itftirrethupjoyandthankmlnefte, withlc- 
rious remembrance of the manifold benefits and bleflings 
which in Chrift Jefus arc vouchfafed. When men have a 
ieafeof fomegood bargaine fealed, they are merry and 
dad ; much greater caufe of joy have they, who have re- 
ceived from God, who cannot lie, fuch a pledge of his 
love, the^f^alc of an cverlafting inheritance, Arife.O my 
foulc, and fipg for joy, for thy light is cotrie, and the 
olory of the Lord is rifen upon thee. Thou didft fit m 
darknefle, forlornc and miferabic, guilty of fin, in bon- 
dage to the curfe, in feare of eternall condemnation : but 
nowGodisappeafed, Chrift hath fatisfied jufticc, par- 
don is proclaimed, thcu haft received the free gracious 
promife, and eternall blefled peace is concluded. And 
for thy greater aflurance, God hath added his feale to 
his free grant of pardon : holy bread is added, and given 
to thee for a Sacrament and divine teftimonie, that the 
body of Chrift was crucified for thee : blefTed wineis 
added and i^iven to thee, for a certaine pledge and token, 
that the bloud of Chrift was {bed forthce, thatnghteouf- 
ncffe purchafed by that facrifice is thine,that eternall lalva- 
tion procured bv that price is thine by an irrevocable title. 
, Ec2 "Praifc 



4iS> 



42 



\Meaneitofiirre 
up mr jtlves 
toreceive the 
Lords Supper 
in faith. 
I. 



2. 



Praifp^the -Lor^j O my foule, and forget not the great love 
of God ii> giving his Sonne to die, that thou mightcft be 
delivered f roni the fcarc of hell and death ; forget not the 
Love oi Chrifl: in fuffering death, that thou raighte(Ujc~ 
1 fet free from the curfe oKhelaw, and burning wrath of 
j God;dcrerved by- linnjc; forget not the grace and favour of 
; God in icalUpg.thceto .feafl:,with him, and giving.this 
pledge and, ?arncft of his.perpetualUove. Thou canft not 
forget the fe,. but thou forgetteft thy felfe : thou canft not 
negled: thefe, but thou hated thy felfe. What canll thou 
defire niore,then to have God to be thy GodjChrift to thy 
Saviour? What wouldft thou remember if thou forget the 
loveof Chrift in fufF.ring death for thy redemption, and 
the earned of his love, whereby he doth affure, that hig 
bodie was crucified, and his bloud {bed for the; ? 
Now the better to dirrc upourfelvesto receive this 

SacrameJitiniaitb.; . . 

Firft,We mtA bewailc our unbeliefe,du]ncffc,earthly- 
mindedneffejthe diftemper of our (pirituall tadc,and con- 
ceit of fpirituall fulncflejlabouring.to quicken the feqfeof 
our milery,and raifc the loulc to an high pryfing of Chrid , 
andhungring after him, JEmptineffe prepares tp recpive 
meatc,and hunger gives it a good rcLi^;.3nd,if we fe^ our 
mifery and nakedneflje withoucehrid,and thirO: after him,, 
wcdialleatehij^flcfli, anddrinke.his blpud.wit^fwccte 
con)fprtandrefre{}iing..4jij',o':.::-^i i.: ^-ihit:. -jiiioj , . . 
, Scjcondly,. Gonfidor howfreely the Lord doth tender 
Chri I to bee receivedin bis Word and Sacran)ent. The 
LordjI fay, faithfuH in his promifes, plentifull in mercies, 
who hath authority to give what he promifeth, ofFercth 
Chrid with, all the^benefits of his death, and pa0ion> to 
CYiCry.poo^:?, vdefpifed, thirdie, affti(ftcd'foule, who doth 
defire and will receive him. . y <„ 

Thirdly, . Weighand confidct the. bleffed date and con- 
dition of them, who be reconciled unto God, contra(5led 
unto Jefus Chrid, who are eafed from their fins. wafKed 
fr§m -their filthkeffe^ ;and.feperatW wnto glory. ; _an4 fa 
|f:> : .: :i quicken 



Go4s Ordinances, the word, and SacrAmenu, 

quicken Qur foules to receive and lay faft hold upon thefe 
inefti mablc benefits offered unto us by name. 

Fourthly, Having troth-plighted our felves to Jefus 
Chrift unfainedly, wee muft awaken and rowfe ^p our 
foulcs to rejoycein him, What can Idcfire more?God the 
Father hath given his onely begotten Sonne to be my Sa- 
viour, and 1 have received and am betrothed unto hi'm : a 
firme peace is concluded^aneverlafting inheritance is aflii- 
red unto me. I have.a good legacy bequeathed unto me in 
the promife?, whcreunto I fticke ; fealed unto me in the 
Sacrament, which I may produce'as an evidence to (lop 
the month of Satan,if hce fliall contend and feeke to robbe 
me of my priviledges bellowed of grace. If I be hunger- 
ftarved in my felfe,the body of Chrift is true meate,nouri- 
fliing mcto life eternall; If thirfticand dcftituteof the 
fappe of grace, the bloud of Chrifl; is true drinkc, nouri* 
{hing me to life eternall : and eating his flelhj and drin- 
king hi&bloud, he dwelleth in mc, and I in him. Thus we 
muft quicken our hearts to rejoyce in beliefcoFthepro- 
mifes made and fealed,waiting uponGod,till he be pleafed 
to give the fence and comfort of it. 



421 



rohn.6.56. 



CHAP. XII. 

Th faithfattare houndy andit isbehovefuU for ■ 
themito believe the threat ni»gs. 

God is sfwell /uft as mercifull/aithfull and true as well 
in his threats,as in his promifcs : and therefore equal- 
ly to be believed in both, fofarre as iri his word he hath 
affur^d us. pfboth. He who is certainc of bis falvation, 
knowe.tji afljiiredlyihc fliould be damned, if he {hoald goe 
on.in fin without repenrance, andfbalLtaftcofmuch bit- 
terncfle, ifhe grow indulgent to his corruptions. Itisas 
fure,that God willcondemnethc wicked and impenitent, | 
as -that he wilUave the righteous and repentant.- WFrntL i Ccr'5.i7. 
■ .■ , , E e 3 beate 



^12 



rhefdthfull are hound,mdit is behovefull 



Rom.i 
I Cor, 



f.4' 



0,6. 



\ beate not dovvne his body, and bring it into fubjedion.hc 
Ezck, 18.24,26 j fliall be as droffe and refufe. If the righteem forfake f^i^ 
righteoufnejfe And commit wicks^ne^e^ or be a vporker of 
tni<jmty^ all hi^ former righteoajne^efhall be forgotten. 

The godly man is not Gavifhly to fearc falling away, or 
running into deftrudion;but wifely to believe the threat- , 
ning5,to prevent falling into finne, and fo into condemna- : 
tion.The (ub jed, who feareththe punilTiment of the law, 
and keepeth bimfelfc innocent, taketh a wife courfe for ^ 
his owne fecurity. j 

Every part of Scripture is Gods W ord, of certaine and 
undoubted truth, which cannot be gaine-laid ; written for - 
the benefit and profit.of the m who fhall be heires of falva- 
tion : But the thrcatnings are part of the Word of God. '■■ 
Whatfoever things were written afore-time (even as well ex- 
amples of judgement infiided upontranfgreflours, and 
threatnings denounced againft them that (hall offend, as 
promifes of mercy to allure unto obedience) were written 
for oar learning and inftrudion. 

I In the ftate of innocencie there was ufe of threatnings, 
j fo is there in the ftate of grace. As a meanes to keepe our 
firft parents from finne, the Lord denounceth death a- 
gainft them, if they fhould eare of the forbidden fruite. 
lob profefTeth, he durft not lift up his hand againft the Fa- 
thevlei^cfor deJ}ru5lion from God was a terrour Hnto himSo 
David, Afjf fiejh tremblethfor feare of thee : and I am ajfraid 
of thy Juigements. The righteetis man wifely conftdereth the 
houfe of the wicked: but God overthroweth the*.wic\edfor 
their wickedne(fe. \ 

And fure ir is expedient for u-^ that threatnings {houl4 
be mingled with the promifes of grace •, for (fo prone are | 
1 we to flatter ,and favour our felves) milder dodrine would i 
I grow colde, unles thefe fpurrs were added. The tartneffc j 
jofthethreatning makes us beft taftthefweetnefleofthc 1 
promife : Sowre and fweet make the beft faucejpromifes i 
and threatnings mingled fit our ftatc,and ferve to keep the ' 
heart in the beft temper. We grow overbold with God,if 1 

the 



Gen.s 
Job.3 

Pfal.i 
Pro.1 



.17. 



l.^li^l* 



I p. 1 20. 



1.12. 



forthem^to belt eve the threatnin^s. 



the threatning doe not awe ; are foonc dejecfled, if the 
promife doe notfupport. The Lord knoweth both ne- 
cefiary to kcepe us in awe ; and therefore beginneth with 
promifes, to the intent we might follow him the more 
willingly ; but to drive forward when we ftop, or grow 
rcniifle, he addcth threatnings. wherefore we receiving a 
klyjgdome which cannot be moved, let ^ have grace^ whereby 
wemay [erve (jod acceptably .with river ence and go ilyfeare. 
Tor our God is a conjumingfre. 

The ad3 of faith in refpcfl of the threatnings bee 
thefc. 

Firfl:, It worketh humbhneffc of minde and heart : for 
what the law thrcatncth,the faithfull will freely acknow- 
Iedge,that they deferve,and fo arraigne themfelves as guil- 
tie of all ttiiferic and death before the throne of grace j 
! whereby the pride and ftubborneflc of nature is much aba- 
I ted. Say we not of him, who hath bccnc once impleaded 
; before the tribunall of an earthly Iudge,as guilty of felony 
or treafon, he hath no rcafon to be ftour ? What then will 
i the arraignementof the foule worke,when a man Hiall be 
idrawne CO acknowledge before God, that he hath defer- 
red to be cafl: into hell, for his manifold offences and 
tranfgreflions againfl: God. 

Secondly, It bringeth forth awefulnc{fe,reverence and 
fcare. The righteous alfo fhall fee andfeare. As the 
Childequaketh, when he heareth that his Father is angry 
with, or doth corrert a fervant : fo the heart and body of 
the faithfiill tremble,as oft as they confider the feverity of 
Gods wrath againft the wicked and ungodly, vphen I 
heard, my belly trembled^ my lips (Quivered at the voyce : rot' 
tennefe entredinto my bones ^ and I trembled m myfelje,that 
I might re^ in the day of troable : That is, when the 
fame of thy divine punifhment and judgement came to 
mine eares, which thou haft decreed to inflitfl upon 
thy people ; my bellj, that is, " my heart and bowels 
moved for griefe and feare. Thus 2\(^«'<i^ hearing of Gods ; 
juft wrath againft the finfull world, and of hispurpofe 

to 



4^3 



Heb,ta*28,is 



The aSis of faith 

I inrejpe£}ofthe 

Threatnings. 

I. 



Ads. J. 5. 
Pfal, 1 1 p. 1 2© 
Ion, 1.1 6. 
iChron.ij.u 



Hab.j, i6. 



l'ral.40.8. 
Hcb.11.7. 



414 



ThefdthfuJl arehomdjAnditis behovefuU 



Dcut.15.11i 

&I7.I5.& 
1 9. ^6, 
Ier.10.7. 



Phil.J.ts. 

Mat.10.28. 

Lak.i2.4,f. 



Cor.y.iOjti 
lpfal»9o.ii, 

4. 



to overthrow alllivingfiefli by water, was moved with 
great feare and reverence at this ftrange, dreadful! and 
mighty work of God; and from the view of this his great 
and jult judgcmcntjhis faith madehim arife to amore ear- 
neft confideration of the glorious Majefty of the Almigh- 
ty. And this is the cffedt of judgement executed by men 
according to the diredion of Gods word. <tAnd all Ifrael 
fi>all he are Andfeare^^ndfijall doe no more anyf»ch wickednes. 
True faith then worketh an holy feare and reverent awe 
of God in refpcft of his judgements, fvho wottld not feare 
thee^O King of nations ?for to thee doth it appertaine.Thou^ 
even thott art to be feared, and who may fi and in thyjight I 
when once thoH art angry ? \ 

The godly mans affurance of Gods favour will (land I 
well with reverence of his Majefty,and feare of tcmporall 
afiflidions, fpiritualldefertions, and the torments of hell, 
not as an evillhe (hall fall into, but which he ftiallefcape 
by thcGonftantftudy and pra^life of holineflc. For our af- 
furance to efcape damnation, through the death of Chrift, 
is no greater then our care to avoid fin, which Icadeth 
thereunto. JVorke out your falvation with feare and trem- 
bling. Feare not them which kill the bo)y^but are not able to 
kill the Joule : but rather feare him which Is ableto defiroy 
bothfotile and body in hell. 

Thirdly, It ftirrcth up continuall watchfulneffe to fhun 
whatfocver might breed danger,or procure Gods difplca, 
I fure. When fleepineffc beginneth to come upon us, faith 
I )'^%%^^ our elbow, and telletb the Lord is at hand with a 
whip to awaken us. The approach of perill apprehended 
will rowfe up the fluggard to lookc about him. Faith alfo 
teachcth fo to acknowledge the anger of God, as that it 
draweth the heart above al things to take heednot to pro- 
voke himby carelefnefTe & iQoxnXy.who kporveth the pow- 
er of thy anger ? Even accordlngfo thy feare ^lo is thy wrath. 
Fourthly, The threatnings, mingled with faith, caufc 
forrowfuU melting or relenting of heart for fincommit- 
tcd.When the King o£ Nineveh believed theprcaching of 

I«nah, 



for them, to belt eve the threatrnt^s. 



lonah jthkt within forty daicsthat great City ftiould bedc- 
ftroyedjbcrofe from bis tbronc:^aton fecl«:lGtb,and pro- 
claimed a Faft unto the Lord And whenth^ Lord teftjficd 
his difplcafurc agairjft the I/raeiit^rhfkMirsg thunder 
and. lightning in Wheate Harveft, sllthe people feared 
greatly, Sind [aid tint o Satnutl, *Trayfor thy fervamsHnto 
the LerA thy God^ that yoe die not '^ for vee have added nnto aU 
eurJinSithiieviH', to oik^ m a King' Now the threatnin^s 
belie ved^work the fame cffcdjthat the judgementfs leenc. 
When lojtah heard what the Lord fpake againft /<?r/^/<fw, 
and agairift; the inhabitants of thatplacei hk henrt was 
tender J. and he h^mi)/edhimfe/fe before the Loyeif. ■ ■ ■ 

Fifrly^when we fee by faitbf f om what miferies we are 
delivered of the free grace and mercy ofGod, our hearty 
arc enlarged in praifc andthankfgivingi In diftreffe faith 
po w reth out f uppl ications j w ben the cala mity is o ver-paft 
it fetteth forth the goodneffe of the Lord, and fingeth of 
his glory. When the Jfraelltes were in fafbty on the 
flioare, looking backe upon the danger efcaped, when 
they pafTed through the red Sea, they make a jbyfull noifc 
to thcGod of their falvatlon : their fongs are anfwcrablc 
to their for^conceived fcare. And fo when, the Lord 
brought back the captivity of 5«»^j/oj^,their mouthes were 
filled wit?b jaughterjand their tdngiies with jby. The due 
confidefation of our defeats, manifeft by thd threatnings 
contained irt the Word of Godj doth mafveliouBy affecfl 
theiieart withdefire to publifli and fpread abroad the lo- 
ving kindnefl'c of the Lord^when by faith in Cbrifl: we fee 
our felveitobc <et free from tbe drcadfull eurffes of the 
Law, arid mertifiilly fa ved ftona tlie' rightCoiis Judgcm^ 
of our firrnes. ■•."•. ■; r, T' :;- r-./ 

Bv this which hath becnc faid , it is nianifeftjitliat this 
lifeof faitli is moft excellent dnd comfortablejand by good 
ptodf^ and eTiperiencc wejfbould be laible to <ay fo, if we 
wsiiki be^effw'atel(^' bat to* pakt ci telfte of M benefie and 
fweetticfifc that itbringfeib; "^l^oribythisftich wd^t^di- 
rcfted to feckc and follow aftcp Chriftjtill'we ebme to be 
'r i Ff affured. 






19. 

iKing.zz«igj, 



Exod.i^.i,8, 



Pfal.ix^.a. 



^i6 



ThefdthfuU are homdyMdit is hehevefull 

afTiircd, that he d wcllcth in us as the fountaine of life, and 
that in him we arc delivered from the guilt & punifliment 
of all our fins : whereas others,who live not by it, waver, 
are oft diftracfled, and know not where to begin the foun- 
dation of that great worke,nor how to bmld thereon. By 
this faith we may come to found reft and holy fccurity 1 
about our falvation fro time to timc,enjoying the comfort 
of it ftill more and more with incredible joy : whereas 
others,cvcn the beft,are oft unfetled and much difquieted. 
If the Lord leadc us into the darkc, and exercife us with 
manifold af flidioHS and temptations, by this faith we arc 
enabled to hold him by the hand, to caft our felves upon 
the promifes of grace,& fo relying upon his power,faith- 
fiilnefleandi mcrcy,to promife lafety unto our felves above 
likcli-hood and appearance ; yea, when we feclo the con- 
trary.The rage of (in is weakened,and we have ftrength a- 
gainft it, though not alwaies to prevaile (which were not 
expedient) yet at lead to be in combate with it, which is 
ever a good teftimony of our fafety *for hereby we prove 
our felves to be lively members of the Church Militant. | 
Alfo by this we are preferved againft fcarcfliU fins ,& have 
grace to walks in ncwnefTeof life,and all parts of it with 
joy and chearfulnelTe. If we live by faith we have delive- 
i ranee from many fharpc and bitter affli^ions ; andbeare 
thofe,which we muft go under,morc meekly and patient* 
ly ; becaufe it makes us depend upon Gods promifes, not 
(linting him to any fet timejmSner of deliverance,or mca- 
fiire of affliiflion.By it we walk in our callings more chcar. 
fiil)y,honeftly,painefully ji and with le0e diftrajfl:ion,toile, 
pfal I S7. 1 jt ai^^ vexatioi>5 b^ with more, pTofic, then they that flow in 
with wealtli, and have all fhif ts & cunning flight to gaine 
by.For^vhilcs wc fee C^od ever going before us in all our 
earthly dealings and actions (as we fhould more lookc to 
itjthat wc find it fo,thcn to ourgreateft profits & weighti- 
eft dealings) this faith ffeall uphold us ipthequieteft eftatc 
attdmoftfweet peace, fuchas allthe<:arnall Wifedomeof 
man fhall never finde nor enjoy. This faith teacheth iisro 

pray 



;*: Ui ■ffu sa tw a atw^.pffnt 



for themyto believe the thr earnings. 



pray at all times as our ncccflitks require, with fctvency 
and confidence; even in the depth of affiidionsjwhcn the 
grave \% ready to fwoUow us up,andiliut her mouth upon 
usjit enableth to looke unto the Lord, and with ftrong ar- 
guments to implore his aid. O LordGodofmyfalvatiofty 1 
have cried day And night before thee, fct my foule is full cf 
treubleSy and my life dravoeth nigh untc the grave. Out of 
the depths have I criedanto thee^ O Lord : Lord hear e mj 
'Votce.My ^irit voithtn me is oiier-v^helmei^my heart nithin 
me is defolate, Jfiretchfortk my hands unto thee, my fsule 
thirflethfor thee as a thirfiy land.O remember not againfi m 
former inlcjuitiesy let thy tender mercies jpeedily prevent m r 
for n>e or/ brought very loiv. If the affifdlion be very -grie- 
vous & oflong continuance,faich doth-neirher quaile,nor 
ccaft to fecke helpc'butlooketh up to the Lordjcxpccfiing 
falvation in diKrtime to be revealed. O godywhyhaft thou 
cafi us off for ever f Whj doth thine an^er fmoake ^.gainfl the 
P^eepe of thy piftuyc ?Kemcmber thy (fongrcgation^pfhich thou 
hafi purchafed of oldjthe rod of thine inheritance^ which than 
hafi redeemed,! am poore andforrevpfalljet thy falvation, O 
Qod, feimeuponhigh - for *God is the ftrcngth of his 
people, * who willoring them againe from the depths of 
the Sea. The life offaith fhall end in joy and comfort. He 
that trufteth in the Lord fhall re Joyce in his holy Name. / 
ftmavfonder unto manyjbut thou art myfirong refuge, Lep my 
mouth be filled with thy praife, and with thy honour all the Jay, 
Our heart Jhall re Joyce in him, becaufewe have trufledin his 
holy Name. Loe^thts is our God,we have waited for him^ and 
he willfave mxthisis theLord^we have r^aitedfor him^we wiU 
begladyandrejoyce in his falvation 'Xhz expedation of them 
that hope in the Lord, (hall not be fruftratcd, therefore 
they fliall re/oyce in him, and found forth his praifes. 

Hec that hath learned to live by faith, , fliall alfo die in 
hkh.Allthcfe died in or according to the faith. If \^c know 
jliowtowalke with God by faith, as Henoch did, all the 
jdaies of our lifcjamidft the manifold temptations & chan- 
ges that we meet withall in this world ; we fliall the bct- 
1 Ff2 ter 



427 



rfai.^ 



9'lhH 






Fi:ii. 



3^3 1 



IJ0-T.2. 






pr^J.74 



Is2- 



^Pfal.68.5j. 
*Vafe.az. 



Pial. 



71.7.S. 






rfal. 8 



8i.6, 



6 19. 



'^.30. 



Hcb, n.ij. 



ThefdthfuU an bomdymdit is khvefuU 



tcr cncoutiter with death, when the agonic? thereof be 
upon us. Death is many wayes terrible, and the affaults 
of Sathaa at that time'arc uluilly moA ftrong, as being his 
lafl: -.but he that hath taken out this leffon, To live by 
faith, {hall calily qiieach the fierie darts of the Divell, 
manfully conquer this ftrong enemy ; renew his repen- 
tance, and confidence in Gods mercy upon the fight of fin; 
and willingly refigne himfclfe into the> hands of God. 
This is the ordinary courfe, live in faith, and die in faith, 
Liveholily, anddieblefledly. Therefore let us leave late 
repentance to them that thinkc it but a fporc to veiiture a 
foule, and take that courfe that is fure to^fpeed . To fay nq 
morCpit is exceeding dangerous to put of repentai^e from 
day to day,though fome few have obtained mercy at thei« 
latter end : But this is Cure, hethatlivethinifaith, /hall 
die in faith, and live in glory for evermore^ 



Fi:^C^s. 





AN 

ALPHABETICALL 

TABLE OF THEPRINCIPALL 

Matters contained in 

this Booke. 




A 

Actepable. 

O afijon is tiuly ac- 
ceptahh, unleffeit 
be quickened and 
cnHved by faith j 
part. i« ca: 8. pag. 
9<?.c:2.i,p!iS4 &c;9.pag:57». 

Sincere obedience, though itn- 
perfeft, is plcafing zndacceptaik 
unto God,par:2.c:5.pagt3 69, J 70 

Acceje, 

Free accefe to the throne of 
grace with bordncflTe and confi- 
dence is a pi'ivi ledge accompany* 
ing afliirance ©f our rcccnciliati'. 
on with God,par.'», c; a,pa§i a^o, 
asi. 

By faith wee are adopted to bee 
[the Sonne of God, and fo have 
j title to the heavenly inheritance , 



par: i, c: 1 o, pag: i^tj par:2,c.'4, 
pag: 250. 

God in great mercy voiichfa- 
feth to his children many excel- 
lent royalties and priviledgcs in 
this life, par:2jc:4,p;i57,z5'8. 

The ttdepted hare fonnc-like 
intereft and title unto the crea- 
ture* in Chrift, par.2,C"8,pa.3^3. 
&c.4,pag.258. 

Sdi^ of fairh that arife from 
the priyiledges of the adopted, 
p3g.2j^,a6o,&c. 

The children of God having 
the promife both of this life and 
that which is to cOm«)do by faith 
rely upon- his grace , to receive 
from him whatfoevcr may bee 
good for them,pag.3 ^9,261,257. 
The fonnc'thip of believers 
being purchafed by Chrift, miift 
needs be an incftimable benefit, 
pag. 2^5", 

To be the Ton ofGodhYadop- 

tianM « greater dignity then to be 

Monarch of the whole world, pa. 

i6 < .z66.a more honourable con- 

F f J dition 



An AlfhabettcaHTdyie^ 



jiffidims. 



ditioH then that of Adam in in 
nocency,pa.266. 

The promifc o^adopthn and c- AffiiifUns are not more ordins- 
ternall inheritance is freely offe- rie then burdenfome and heavy to 
led, and freely given to them that be borne, par,i,ca.7,pa,j 1 1. 
bee moft uaworthy in their ownc Outward affit^ians often occa« 
cyeSjpag 2^3, to them thag were fions of gnevous temptations, 
fervants of linne,{lavest9 Sathan, p.i.i,ca.i i,pa.i8^,paif.z,ca,7,pa. 
children of wrath, pa.z^4,i70.to 
fuch as are moft contemptible ia 
the world, pa »6 3. 

Believers may know and be af- 
fured of their ©wnea^o/)rto//j pa. 

Every Believer is notaffared of 



Our trailtiein bearing /^j5?iffi- 
om; fhew«s what need wc have ta 
be ftrengthened and incouraged, 
that they hinder us not in our 
Chriiiian courfc, pa.jilj^it. 

Great ^ffiSitons ^ of diverfe 



his addition, nor dnth any in this* kiadSjof long continuancc,are no 

life cn;oy perfect affurance with- more then neceCary to expell our 

Gutdoubtings, pa.ti7. See cer- corruptiens, para, ca.7, pa.gjS, 

tainty or aflarance of Salvation. 3 3 7 j J M* 

Meanes to Itirreup faith in af- Satan and wicked men cannot 

furance of the priviledges of the fet the time, or meafure the quan- 

«t^ej>fe^,pa.i6t,i6j,z63,&c, titie offuchinifcriei, whcrof they 

arc inftruments to the godly, pa. 

Affiance. 1^3»?j8. 

Faith put for jjffianu of Heart The godly themfelves ate not 

cmbiacing the Word as good, par. to appoint the time or meafure of 

i,c.i,pa.3,& c.io,pa,i57. their chaftifements, pa,3af,j38^. 

j4Jjianc& how diftinquiflied , . Gods hand muft bee acknow- 



ibid. 

Juftifying faith is an a^awe or 
confidence, par.i,cap.3,pag,j4, 
28. 



ledged in all our afpHiom whofo- 

evcr bee the inftrument, pa. 320, 

4j8. Thfs is aground crf"Humi- 

liation, pa.jzo. & gti. of pa* 

Faith is an ©bfequious affiance, tience, pa.? 20. & 52 1, ji», &c. 

par.ijcap 3,pag.5i,par.», cap.p. of profit and comfort by that wee 

pag.37i.& cap.io.pag.3$7. fuffer, pa.jaojjiijjaij&c. 338, 

Affiance mnft bee well rooted J39. 
and kindly planted, par.ijcap.j. ^j^'fl»ii^«f, though bitter for the 
P^g'34j5ccap.4,pag.49.&cap .8. prcfent,are meanes to doe us good ) 
pagioi. found and permanent, manydaiesafter, pa.324» 
par.!, cap.3,pag.34. Affiiifions in themfelves arc 

Over.ruling,pag.3 j. & cap. 10 hunfiill, but they arc changed in 
P^V^^* and by Chrift, and made fervicca- 

Sigries of lively, found, well- ble for our good, pa. 3 14,3 1^ 
rooted <7^tf»(;e,where there is but The Lord ou: moft mercifull 
fmall aflurance offalyation, par. and loving Father, hath plcnti- 
Xjca, I o,pa. 1 4 f . fally fi^nified,that he will correft 

his I 



. II iE^rii%>. 



jiM AlphMb&ticMUTAyie, 



his children for their good , and Th« ads offa^th in rcfpeft of 
graciouflypromifcd that hec will the promifes of fupport and com- 
be with them in,and deliyer them fort in ajpiifion^ p. 3 %o^% 2 1 ,5cc. 
out of their adverfities, pa, i|». Wee muft live by faith in the 
3 » 3,3 i4j&c- heavieft and longeft affiiSism. pa. 

God correScth in great wife- 335,31^. 

dome, pa.j 12,313,324,538. in In fuch faith is moft excrcifed. 



pa.?3^» 

In fuch there is moft need of 
faithj becaiife then Satan is moft 
bijfie to tcmptjibid. 

God doth love tenderly, when 
hee doth correft feverely/ par. i^ 



meafiue; pa. 311, xj8, 3^35334* 

3 3 8. for a moment, pa.3i2,ji3. 

mlove and tendcrnelie, pa. ^ 13, 

323,325. to prove them, pa.3 13. 

to purge andrciine them, pa. j i j', 

3x4, J 23, to confirme grace, pa. 
■ 3 14,3 23. and to fave them at the ca.ia, pa*i8^. 

end, pa.3 14, The Lords ch.iftifements are 

God corrc6:s his children that ^^ purgative medicines to pre- 

they might know thcmfelves, vent or cure fome Tpirituall dif- 

thcir frailties and graces, pa.3 1 3, eafcjiljid. 

3 1 f.moft perfcftly undci ftanding Our conformitic with Chriftian 
theirneed, their ftrength, and the afJliSIions ^ and his partner- fljip 
working of his owne potion, pa. with us therein, fliould make us 
32^,324,528. willing to bcare them^ par.a, ca- 

God hath promifcd to deliver 7apa.3»<5. 

his children out of troiibIe,p3.ji4, F.'^ith in God \s the onely ftay 

3 25,3 26. Is tender o/er them in and fupport of the he.-irt in trou. 

trouble, pa 3 14,315. and prefent ble and affliSion , fp'ccially that 

for their helpe pa.315. whrchi$moftburdcnfome,p.3t6. 

It rs neeeflary to Icarne to live Faith turncth crofTcj into ad- 

byfaich touching thefe promifes vantages,par.2,ca io,pa.j9y. 

intimcofd^jflfo»,p.Ji«,3i7,&c. Faith raifeth the heart to ex- 

^fflHiont profit not where pcft profit and comfort by every 

faith is wanting, pa. 3 1 q. trpiSiion^ini the grcatcft comfort 

The godly ate allowed to live and profit by zhe greatcft affiiffion, 

byfaithin<j^;^io»f,pa.5iJ,3i^, par. z, ca.7, pa. 317, 330, 3^1, 

&c. 34«'34x- 

Faith fweetcns affiH'tons^ fup- The a(*ts of faith in time of 
portcth under them, teacheth to greatcft fl^i5io»f,p, 3 3 <.3 5 7,&c. 
profit by thcmj&c. par.i,ca.io. How it comes to pafle that in 
pa.i33,par.2,ca.i,pa.i96. & ca. a^i^M«; faith feemes to bee moft 
4,pa.z5x,35S. & c3.1Ojpa.394, weake, and corruption moil ftir- i 

3«5. "ng,pa.34i,ui,3*3. 

Inwardly chetres the heart,par. Hclpes to ftirre up faith in deep 

», ca.4, pa.2^1. & C3.5, p3.i8o. 6jj!7/fif/o»f, when all meanes faile, 

and aflures ot helpe in trouble, p3,54j,344,&c. 

triumphing befoie the tiftory, Faith fctting before us the in- 

par.2, ca.7, pa.3 3 5, finite recompence of reward, ma- 

Ff4 keth 



A» AlphahtieaHTalfle, 



keth our afficlions feeme light confidence, par, i, cap* i,pag. 3, 
and momentame , pag. 326, There is a doable afent, one 
3x7. from reafon, the other from au- 

By faith the godly heart is thority,pag.i6. 
dra wne to ufe all lav>»full meanes Juftifying faith is an Ajjent, pag. 
of helps ia diftrelTe, but refteth 16,18,19. 

on Gods promifes, not on the 
probabilitie of the thing pro- 

mifed, pag.35 i.&cap.i,pag.iOx, 

Z02. 

The dependance on the promi- 

fcs is abfoliue, without limitation 

of time, mcafure of affiSlion, or 



The (5j^»f which faith gives to 
the word is abfolute and unlimi- 
ted, pag. 17,11. 

Faith is a firmc ajfefif, pag-jo, 
&cap.Sjpag.6o. 

How faitb is an evident afentj 
01 time, mcaiuLK 01 ajjnMioHf ur pag.X?. 

manner of deliverance, and that Faith is in fome fort an ajfint 1 
when all meanes faile, yea againft difcurfive, pag.ag. 
all things that? may feeme toop* In living by faith one aft is to 
pofe, pag»J5 ijj}*. ajient unto th^ whole word, par. 

For frtppart in this eafefaith 3,cap.ijpag.zoi, 
turneth it felfe to meditate on AJfewt unto the articles of 
Gods truth, power, wifdome,tcn- Chriiliaa faith as true ajid good, 
der compafllons ; his ufuall man- whiles conlidercd onely in them- 
ner of dealing j and our ownc ex- felves, without oppoGtion of fuch 
periencc : And directs us to ac- matters as bee much valued, is 
cufc ind checke our felves for our (hallow and unfound, par.i 3 cap. 
onbeliefe, and to incite and call 4, pag. 5 i . 
upon our foules more confidently 
to wait and tratt upon the Lord^ E. 

Baptifme, 

The Almighty pmer of God 
often alledgcth to eonSrme the 
wcake and wavering hcartj^ar, i , 
i cap.<J,pag.75. 

The teftimonies of Gods pow- 
er, mercy and truth are fe often 

repeated in Scripture J that v?ec Chrifts death "and our fcllbwftip 
might have them ever before us, therein^ibid. 



BAptifmz is a feale of the Cove- 
nant bttwi^tOodand us, par. 
l,cap.ii,pag.4io. 

Baptifme is a fealc of our rege- 
neration, pag,4i I, and pardoa of 
our finnesjibid. 

It is a pledge of the vertuc of 



to uphold us againft our deub- 
tings and fearcs, par.r^ cap. 11, 



Of the vertuc of Chrifts rcfur- 
rcftion,and our communion with 
him therein.ibid. 

Of our adoption irtChrift, pag. 



412. 

Of our communion with all the 
Faitk put £ot ajfent mthoMt lively members of Chrift Jefus, 

ibid. 



An AtphahticaUTahie, 



To believe, is to tfuft in the 
Word of God ay fure andflable, 
pag24 



x6. 



Tfuft «i»oundcd by htliefe^^^. 



To yetUhti >s to kane upca^ot 
fticke,6r adhere uiltdj pag. 25,47. 

To belitve on Chrift is to re- 
ceive him,pag.a7.goc or corrie un- 



ibid, and that God will provide 
for «« in this life, raifk up Our bo- 
dies unto life at the day of judge- 
ment, and befiow upon us that e- 
vcrlafting Kingdom e which hee 
hath preparedj pag.4 1 2,4 1 3 ,4 1 4 . 

iBaptiJme alCo is a fparlre to re- 
pentaace and mortifiGationj pag. 
414. a provocation unto faith, ^, 

I and a pledge thereof, pag.4if, an to hfiajiibid. 

incitement unto new obedience^ To believe theMeflias, is not 

I and a pledge thereof, ibid. , A *ncly toknow, butfbhaTeantf. 

' pledge and pawiie oflovcandu- fisnccinhi/n, p'ag.iS, 

nity,pag\4i^. To Je/icx-ff, is trot bftely to give 

By fingul.-lr appropriation it «redenee tio what the Stfiptare 

reprefenteth and coafirmeth our Taith, but toerabraee whatisfaid 

engrafting into Chrift, pag.4 1 1, with intire adherence of foal c, 

Forfigntficati©n,force, ufcand pag.ji.'- 

frait it continueth the vvhole Tobitie'V6CWi&::Biid8t'fiCtnj 

courfe of a mans life, pag. 41 o. is* not barely to hcUeve the hiftory 

By faith we arc to make ufe of of his death, but th^ fruits aiid be- 

5drp/^^eall the daycsofourlife, ncfits therecJjf, arid that witk affi- 



pag.410. 

How farcnts fliould in faith 
prcfent their children unto Bab' 
///5ae,p3g.4d7340*- 



ance,par. i,cap.6 pag.7 j. 

Belief e in th^tfidh mercy of Cod 



Believe 8i Believer, 



frameth tRP^^^c'bf God in our 
hearts, aad rlitp^i ntcth the virtues 
•f Chrifts deatfh upon the foiilc 
par,i,cap.tf,pag,78. 

Sd/e/ein Chiiftis abfolutely 

Faith put for Beliefej par. i,cap. »ce«irary t© rcmiflion of finnes /n 
'5 P^g-3' ^^^ them that bee of age ^nd difl 

Believe Gidyind Believe in Goil, ctctieft , par. i , cap. 8, pag. j 5. & 
what the phrafes import, par. I. par.i,cap.io,pag.i4«. 
cap.i3pag.4,y.& c»p.4,p3g*49. They believe notuntO righte- 

Bslieveinioth fometimesim- oufaefle who turne their gifts to 
port ho mere but JBe/icye, par. i, the fcrvicc of their lulls, par. 1, 
cap.ripag.j. &cap.9, pag. ii8, Wp.4,pag.48. 
129. Such as truly Je//evcrtia;^knovv 

Beliefe in the underftanding it they believe, par. ijcap.^jpag.y^^, 
the foundation of confidence in loi,io8. 
the heart, pag. f . Many that believe, cannot ccr- 

Beliefe is grounded upon the au- tsinly affirme that rhey do' believe, 
thority of the fpeaker, but may be par. i, cap, 5 , pag 1 8.& Wp.7,pag. 
fuflained and ftiengthcned byo- 84. 

thcr motives and inducements. Encouragements to iie//evc,par. 
pag. 19. i,cap.ii,f(3g.i5i, 

. VVc 



jin AlfhabetlcaUTable, 



Wee are not more defitousto takes diret^ion ^^m God in all 
ie/ieve,thcnGodisthatwefhould bufinefles,«f "this life, par.i,ca. 



10 do, par. i jca. i a,pa. 1 6 f . 

Chnft hirofelfe doth gracioufly 
inyite all that bee poore , needy, 
weaiiej thirfty, and heavy laden, 
who iieithet fecle inward lap nor 



8,PM5^- 



Te/»pra/2 at earth!)/ blejfwgt. 

Earthly bltjjing; are ncccffarie 
for the maintenance of this life. 



Blafpbemrs. 

Bla/phemsrs are not to be rea- 
outward fruit of grace .to come foned witii, par.i, ea.^, pa.i9^j 
untohim, par.i, ca<,io, pa.151, zj7. 
15 5.& ca, 1 2,pa. 176,190,191.8c 
par • 2jCa.i,pa. 13 1 ,2g ». 

The Lord hath ftraitly char- 
ged and commanded us to beli&ve 
inhitn, pi.ifi. 

By belkvtKgwic glorifieGod par.7,ci.§,pa.547 
bothinhistruth,povyer,wifdomc. The Lord by covenmi: hath i 
love, grace and mercy, pi. I J 3. piomifed to furnirti his people; 

If men conGdcr fcrioufly what witii all needful! blcflingspertai- | 
rare,furpa(Iing,preci©u$ things be iiifig to this Lfe, that being freed ; 
promifcd. to thpn chat coins un. from cares about them, they! 
to Jefus Chnft, what (hall with- might, with greater freedome, at- 
hold them fro.n belj^-vlng^ pa. tenduponhisfervice, par.2,ca.8, 

The ftrait chpfge_o£ the Ltsrd In fpcciall the Lord promifeth 
hath laid upon ui^to^He^Je, and length of dayes, health, ftrength, 
diflike of our wcaJp^rtflc is a ma- wealth, favou», pcaccj joy, good 
niteft aigument Jaf his bounty Iuccc{re,fafcty, good name,and ail 
and goodwill, par. i, ca.i,"., pa; thcfe not oncly to the righteous 
i58. thcmfelrcs, but to their children 

The fcverall flatcs of true B«- and poftcrity, pa,348334»>Slo. 
/Kxicri", par.l,ca.8,p.i. 94 j9 J. To wicked men God vouch- 

Every Believer hath a proper, fafes outwaid thmgs of common 
fingular,Gnccte^individuall faith, baunty, to his children they are 
par.i,ca.iOjpa.i40. gifts oi love and fpcciall good- 

Ordinarily believers are weake will, par. 2,c3.4,p3. i6o. 
attheir firftconyerfien; but fome Earthly blejings arefomefmall 
are priyilcdged above others 3 pittance of our childs portion,par. 
p3r.i,ca io,pa.i4y. x, ca. 4. pa. i^q. & ca. 8, pa. 

The ftrong fce/.'cx;er doth fome- ^67. 
times {hrinke when the weake The worth of Eijr/Wy Wc^^^gf 
fiafidsfaftjpa.ij'o. isgreat,fpecially when they be gi. 

Thettrong&c/f£ver mnftnotbe yen m love and mercy, asgiftsof 
C3relc{re,nor the weake difmayed, the Covenant, par. i, ca; 5, pa, 
P»'M°jMi. ^3.&par.t,c3.8,pa.^67. 

The beiiever confults what is It is neccflary we fliould believe 
juft, not what is gaincfuU : and thcfe promifcs, pa 3 50, j 5 i,&c. 
Tb, 

i rwrm mi l I I fc ^, „ , u ■ >■ — i j i .. . ^ mm « • ^.^ . .,. ..:..•. - < .. . 



An AiphaBeticaU Table, 



The godly are allowed to live 
by faith touching thefe tmpQraU 

pronaireS,pag.5^j. . , . , , , 
The relation which IS betwut 

God and his pec.ple fhould en- 
courage them zo reft upon him 
(ov earthly good things, pag.gH' 

Thi J gift the Lord gives to the 
man whom hce doth approve, to 
gather and ufe earthly blejirgs 
with delight and comfort^ fothat 
his ftate is comfGrrable^ th^tigh 
his revenewes be fmalljpag.j j 5. 

The patient expeftation of the 
Saints hath confirmed this^ that 
God will not bee wanting to his 
children in thisgs of this life, 
ibid. 

Faith recciycth the free and 
giacious promifesofGodconccr- 
mngthc hleftngso£thi5 life, par. 
f,ca:f,pag.65. 

Belicfe in thefe promiles brmg- 
eth forth contentment, inceura- 
geth to diligence, quickcneth in 
advcrfitieSj&c.ibid. 

By faith the temporaU gifts of 
God are fwcetned andfmftified 
unto us,par. i , cap. 1 o jpag. i j a, & 
par.i,cap.8,pag,55*» 

It recciveth earthlji hkjjtngs &s 
pledges ofGods fpeciall favour, 
and lifteth them up tofpirituall 
ufe, pag 1 53. 8c par.z, cap.S, pag. 

It prefervcth from the ufe of 
unlawful! mcancs, par.*, cap.8, 
pag.|f6' 

How the heart is affeftcd upon 
fuch like conGderations,!bid, 

The afts of faith in refpeft of 
temptraU promifes and bleflingSj 
para»,c.8,pa§.}$J,jS«3357i&c. 



Callirig, 

IT is the ordinance of God that 
men fhould laboure in fome ho- 
neft faZf/zg,par»2,cap. x©,p3g,38», 

God hath proaiifed toprote^Si 
and blcfle them that doc the 
workes of their caSivg with dili- 
gence,ibid. 

Our caUivg muft be hoHeft,that 
is, ferviceabie to Church, Com- 
mon wealth, or private familie, 

pag- 3 89. 

If faith doc not quicken, feafon 
and guide the warkes of our cal' 
lir.gj they arc dead and carnall as 
they come fromus,ibid. 

The foveraignc remedy againft 
the evils which we are apt torua 
into in the labours of our caUing, 
is a lively faith,pag.388. 

Faith laboureth confcionably 
in the duties of aa honeft caliingj 
yet without covetoufncfle or di- 
Iba^ing care, par. 1. cap. 10. pag, 
I34,p3r.2,cap,8,pag,5y7. 

The a(3s of faith in. refpetS of 
©ur caMi^gy and the duties be- 
longing thereunto, pag389*52«>. 
dec. 

How wee may live by faith 
touching the good fucccffe of that 
worke whcreumo wee are called^ 
which we find to be much above 
our Itrength or raeanes, par.z,ca. 
10 pa, 3 96. 

Diligence and cheavfulfleflTc in 
the duties ef our honell caSifig, is 
a meanes fanllified of God, to 
procure frtedome from Satans 
temptations, pat.z, ca.^, pa.a97> 
208,398. 

care 



^n,4^fhmimUTAble, 



Phyficallatiii of qualities, ol'Mo- 

Care. rail and of ftate and condition, 

par. ijcaj^./jpag.Sp. 

Exeefiive catc. akieut earthly Faitljmindethusofourfi;^;^^, 

things is an cfieiS of unbelief e^pa, even v^hen our mouataine Ice- 

»jcap.ijpag.io452oj, raeth ftrongeft, pai\»,cap.8jpag. 

Faith in the promifes of eajcthlji 362. 



It doth forcfee chan^et and pre- 
.pare for them,ibid. 

Faith is the worke of God th« 



things doth kill covetous deOreS; 
diflrultfull and diftrafting arex 
par'i,cap.8.,pag.35o. 

Faith in the ptQinifcs ofeyer- 
.lafling life doth eflablife the 
'Keatt againft «ll wovidly cares 
and fcaLcsjp9M,ca,p.4,pag. if I . & Esther in /eftti Ckri^,2^ • i ,cap. % i 



Faith in God in tirae of di- 
iirefle expells vexations and di- 
rftraftingctfre^i pac.a,.cap.j^ pag. 



There Is atwofold certiamh^'a 
fenfeaadiaevcjit, par, i, cap.7. 
pag.82. 

Things ate to m» according as 
we conceive them, whicWisnot 
ever anfwerablc to the cvid«;ncc 
of the thing in it felfe, or to the 



C}iTifi is both a Lord, aead Savi^jl 
ourjfar.i,c^p.3,pag.j^ • J, 

Cbrifi is the fountainc of the j 
water of life, par. i, cap. 4, pag. 

41. 

Chrift is the life of the foalc, ' 
par.XjCap.i,pag.i9j. | 

Pardon of finne is proclaimed 
to miferable finneis in and 
through Chrifiy par.z, cap. 2, pag. 

Faith goes dire&ly to thrift for 
pardon, wee being; in our felyes 
cerfdiwfy in regard; of tke event, Ciifullandaeairfed,pag.?^». 
pag.8^. Cilri/f is the thing which faith 

Things believed are in them- embxaceth to falvation , and 
felves more ctrtaiw then things whom it doth lookc unto and rcw 
fcenc, but not apprehended by us fpe^, as it doth make us righteous 
with fuch certaintU^nd affuranee, in the fightof Godj par. i , cap.*, 
par.ijcap.8,pag.iio. pag.74, 7J. & cap.i«,pag.i^7,, 

ConclMfions. Theologicall ^« par.z,cap.i,pag.aig. 
in thcmreWcs as (;er/«W8,as are the Chrift is the full, and adequate 
principles upon which they are objeft of beliefc as it juftifieth, 
grounded, but alwaye s they are par. i , cap. f, pag. f 9. 
not fo infallible to our undctftan- Chrift is the objcifi of faith, not 
dingaadconfcience, par.ijCap.J, abftraSly or nakedly confidcred, 

butChriilwith his benefits^ pan 
i,cap.5,pag.7i. 

In Chrift Gods wrath is pacified 

towards us, par.i^cap. 2,pag.i34. 

Gods giving Cbrift is an inccu- 



pas>5»"0- 

Change, 
There is a twofold change > 



ragemcnt I 



ragement to believe , pag. 134, God is pleafed to trie vis,pag. 527. 



An Alphal/eticall Table, 



»?? 



Chrifi nmmt unto tis of God 
wifedomc and farKflification , af- 
well ^s righteoufnefre tind re- 
demption, par. 2. cap j.pagJjS. 



330,331. 

God and Chrifi is the oncly ob- 
jcftof true confidence and truft, 
par. I. cap. 9. pag, 127. 

God having given Chi/i to us. 



7 he confidcration or which will deny us nothing that may be 
fiiould quicken to believe the for.our good, par, z^ cap, 8, pag. 
proiTiiie of fandification, pag, 352.- 353. 
348. Clrifi nzwcv rejeded any that 

Chrlfi zshtis a juftifier of us came unto him in wcakcneiie 
from the guilt of finne,and a fan- defiring to be confirmed^ par. 1, 
differ of us from the power of cap. 12, pag. 168. 
finne, jsthe wedding garment. 

Church. 



The authority of th* Church 
cannot be the gvoimd of 'faith, 
par, I. cap. 9. pag. 1 23. 

The Church is iubjeft to errour, 



par, B. cap- 4. pag. ^2; 

Faith as the pipe conveycs 
grace from Chrifi the tountainc 
into the fouk, par. z. cap, j. pag. 
243,244.247. 

They thatwouW be enriched - „_j „„^j 

with grace, or prefevere therein, neither hath it any truth iname- 
muftbe knit to Chriji hy faith^ diatelyorby divine infpirations 
' pag. 244. & cap. 5, pag. 286. ibid, ' ' 

See Grace. The authority of the £^«r<;i& is 

<7i&r//? hath purchafed for us life a thing create, ibid. 
cverlafJing no Icflc then righte- Whatfoerer credit the Church 
oufnefTe, par. 2. cap. 4, pag. 249. hath^ it receiveth the fame from 
The confideration of which theSctiptureSj pag. 124. 
fhauld quicken to believe the The authority of the Pope, 
promifeof life. pag. 25y, whom theycaLLthc^^f/Wyc/^ .virtii-l 

Chrift hath praid for his people all, is the firft ground and laft re- 
that their faith fhould not faile, folution of the Romanifts faithj 
par. 2. cap. j. pag. 27*. 280. pag. izf. i%6. 

CfcrJ/? hath praid for perfeve- Itisimpoflible the Ci?7»rci&ef in- 
ranee againftfeparating evils, par. falhblepropofall fliould bee the 
I. cap. 12. pag. 180. reafon of a Romanc Catholikes 

C^riy? IS the rock into which We beliefe of Scriptures , unlsfTc it 
muft worke our felves by faith, were the primary objed of his 
that no weight of affli^ion may beliefe, pag. 1x7. 
overwhelme us, par. 2. cap. 7. 
pag. 329, 550. Combate. 

The fpirit of wifdome and 
coiinfcUjofflrength and courage-, Thcfervants of Chrift are all 
was powred into Cifr//?, of which fouldiers , and have continual! 
we partaking by faith, are inablcd warre with Satan, par. 2. cap. 6. 
to beare that beft, with which pag. 2^0. 

We 



An AlfhabeticaUTahle, 



oftentimes God caufcth his 

children to feeke long before 

they find canj/er^ibid. 

It is Gods worke to give com- 

240. f^Yt, it is our doty to waitc for it 

Bee the cow&^fe never fo hot, in the way of obcdience^ibid. 
faithwilinotyceld to corruption. Comforts when they come are 



Wee are weake and feeble to 

I Withftand oiir fpirituall enemies 

potent and vigilant to aflaile, par: 

»,cap:5, pag: 877,8: cap: 3,pag; 



par;j, ca]j,63pag;39i. 



ufually proportioned torhemci- 



Faith IS the fhicldof tbe foulc fare of tribulation, and multitude 
to <lefend it againit all the fiery of fervent prayers powred out bo- 
darts of the Divelljpag.-i^ J, ^P4. fore the Lord, pag: 1 80, & par. 2, 



&cap:7,p3g;3l7' 

God hath given his fcrvants 
mnny encouragements to fight 
valiantly , and made them many 
promifes offtrengtii and vitSory^ 
pag; 190,19 1. 

The craft of Satan is great to 



C3P-7,p3g: 340,54 1. 

Comm^ndsmnn. 



Whatfosvcr the fcrvants of 
God did upon common grounds 

- - ^ ._ and reafons , pertainingto us no 

deceive ,his power great to moleU;, leftc then unto them ; that duty 
but if we be valiantin the Lord, belongcth unto usafwell asunto 
we fltall get the viftory, pag: 191, them,and their example is fcr our 
»9Z. ' imitation,par:2jCap. r,pag:»co. 

Todoubtandfcara becaufewe Speciall eommandements given 
areexeccifedinfpiritualifcw&^/ex, by priviledge to fome peculiar 
is to lay afidc our harncfic be- perfons, belong not unto them, 
caufc we arc called forth to bit- who have received no fuch war- 
Cell,pag;i92. rant { but if tihe immediate 

Faith is the fiifl: thing that 1$ ground be common, the dutyi-t 
formed in a Chriftian,whercwith {clfe reachcth unto us,ibid. 
Godfurnifheth him whcnhecals The precepts of finiftity and 
him forth to the incowtCTj pag: holincfle bind the confciencc to ! 
29 ?. obey God, as well as the promifes ' 

God. calleth not forth his fer- bindtotrnftinOod, par;i,cap:j. 
yants to tht eoH^iff, antill^hee pag'-66,p3r:i,cap;Q,pag:57i. 

I have enabled them to make re- The commandements of God^re 
fiftancc,par:2,C3p.6.pag:504, laid before believers, not as the 

Set Temptations, caufe for obtaining eternall life, 

but as the way to walkc in unto 
Comfort. eternall life, affured unto us by 

the free promife and gift of God, 
Faith may be ftrong when wee par;i5cap.8,p3g:ii2, 
ha/eao fenfe or feeling of mercy Faith ,uniteth the heart to the 
or C6mfsrt, par: i ,cap: 1 Sjpag-, 177, promifes, and glueth it faii to the 
Sometimes the godly walke commandernentSf paf:r,cap:i,pagi 
without f6w/frrf,bccaufe they put 3 1,3>,J J.p^:i, cap:i, pag.ic>^5 
ic from thcmfclves,pag; 17^, I97.& C3p:i,p;227,& c:4^p 254, 

Fathi 



An Al^hahetkall Table, 



Faith cleaveth unto the c^m- 
mandments as juft, cquall, honeft 
and goodjin all things, and at ail 
times to bee oWcyed, pat; i jCap; f. 

To the leading of a Chiiftian 
life, it is necefliryj that by faith 
we adhere and fticke faft unto the 
Commandemnts, par.»,cap: 9,pag: 

37P. , 

Want of belie vingthe/)rece/'^*f 
is the caufe why many ase kept 
under of inordinate paflions, pag, 

a 71. 

It is ncceffary a Chnftian 
fliould reft upon God for abilitie 
to doe what he requireth, pag: 
372 ay 3, and that hee will accept 
then- willing (though weake) fer- 
Yice, pagjj 73,3 74. See obatence. 

Cmmini to Chifi. 

Cmminj^to Chifl is a fpirituali 
motion o( the heart and afFefti- 
ons towards CM/, parii.cap.-j. 
pag.»8. 

The receiving o£Chrifiis not 
onelyacomprehenGon oftheun- 
deiftanding, but an embracing of 
the heait and aSeftions, par: i, 
cap: 3, pag: 27. 

Wee put on Chnfi when by an 
-affianced knowledge and confe- 
qucnt afFeftions wee comt more 
and more to bee united with him, 
par: I J cap; 4, pag: 5*- 

Commnionwith Clrifr. 

By faith wee are maried unto 
Chr'tfl, and have eimmunim with 
him in the death and rcfurreiainn^ 
par: i, cap:io,pag:i3». 

A true bcliovcrj though never 
I fo weakeidoth pofleffe efcriy? vyi th 



all his benefits,par:i5cap:io.pag: 
146.& cap:i Zjpagu^y. 

The incrcalc of faith makes 
cnr communion with Chrifi more 
fwGet and comfortable, pag; 148. 

C$nfeJfiofi of faith. 

faith (if fiime) bringcth forth 
CO}ifeJJiofi,p?.i-t J J cap;4, pag: f i. 

Faith which bringeth forth fin- 
cere confejfian is coupled with 
love, but confejfton it felfe is an 
efFea offahhy >bid. 

Faith put for unhmtd profejfton 
fl/f(i//^,par.i,capi,pag:3. 

ConfeJf9n offinm* 

Confejfwn offmne isrequifitcto 
the obtaiuing of pardon by faith, 
par.'i, cap.», pag:2 i5,i|j. 

HovY the (onjeffion ©f the true 
believer differs from the tenapora- 
rie,pag!ii^,?,i7. 

The promifcs made to him that 
truly conjejfetb his _^»wM,pag: zi 7 

Sinte, andourmiferable eftate 
by rcafon of it, muft bee confeffed 
and bewailed, that wee may be- 
lieve the* promifes of luftificati- 
on3par;i,cap:i, pag; 216,23 3. Of 
Saniftification, cap: 3, pag: 341, 
24f . Of Adoption and the eycr- 
lafting InhsritancejCa, 4,pag: 261, 
263. Ofrerfeverance,c3p».5.pag. 
a87,i88. 

The finnes, which fet open the^ 
foule to temptation, muft be cc«- 
fefedi^^v. I, cap: 1 a.pag: 1 7 1 ,173 . 
&c.pai-:2,cap:6,p.ig;304,?0 5. 

Inaffliftion and diftrefls wee 
muft eonfejfeovx fins withhrtred 
and godly forrow, far:Zjcap.7. 

Whenfocvcf faith comes to 
receive 




An AlfhaheticallTabh, 



receive the Icale ofpai-don, it is ever. fearctull, caufeth unquiet- 
pleads guiltie, par. i. cap. i i.pag. Rcfle and impatience in affli(^ion. 



417. 



Confidence. 



p.;r.a cap.7 pag jzz. 
Content dtion. 

Faith fceth riches in God, fub- 
mitteth to his w.rdome,refteth ia. 
his love, and fo maimaines a 
Chriftian in fomc mcafure o£ con- 
tentment, pai'-a.cap.S.pag.g 58.& ' 
cap io.pag.39^. 

To live by faith in the abun- 
flance of all things, makes way 
ionfidince in" God dotfe the for patience, contentednejfe, and 
more bind and oblige hjm ( as it found peace in the depth of mift- 
were)todoeusgood, and todcli- rie^pag.j^o. 
ver us from evill, pai.i.cap.y.-iag. 
lip.TofhQwrehisbleffiagsplen- Covenant, 

tifullyuponus,cap.8.pag.j ji; 

The. faithfull have promifed The Co'ueffaKf which God hath 
themfelvcs helpe, and cauftdently made with his people, is ^never- 
begged ad, becaufe they tiujted in. lafting Covenant ^^zx 2.cap.5 pag. 
the Lord.pag.^ig.jao 272.173. • .": 

Confidence is oppofcd to doubt- The Covenant of God made in 
ingand diftruft, nar.i.cap.j.pag. Chrift ihould encourage to be 



The kinds of Confidence^ par. r , 
cap. I. pag. 4. 

Subftancc put for Confidence, 
par.i.cap.j.pagjp. 

Confidence as it doth embrace 
Chrift with certaine affiance, is 
the forme of faith ; as it beget- 
tcth confidence of liberty, it is an 
effetl of faith,p.ig.50. 



lieve the pvomife of pardon, par, 
i.cap 2.>pag.ij4 , 

SaQ<5tification is promifed in 
th& covenant 9f§race,par,a cap.3. 



3». 

Confidence in the ftcfla is an ef- 
fect of unbeliefe, par.a.cap. r.pag, 
20 J. 204. 

They arc accurfed who trufi in pag.2 x 8. 

Man,p3c.i.cap.9.p3g.i27. Peifeveranceispromifed in the i 

Faith in God in time of di- cox»e«a«/ofgrace.par.2.cap.5,pag. ' 

flrcffe drawes the heart from car- 27.2. 7^.-i89.%<>©. ■ ; 

nail repo/e in naeanes and friends. To the children of God earfhiyi 

and emangeth from the ufe of bleffingsaregrfcsofthecowwaw/, 

unlawfull meanes of helpc, par. z. part of theircbild? poction,and fo 

cap.7.p3g.3» 1.549. received by faith , par. 2. cap. 4,. 

He will never renounce caifnall pag. 266,8c cap 8 pag. 3 6j.. 

fupporte thzt makes not God the In the Covenant of grnce God 

fiay of his foule for outward givcth Vyhat hereqwireth,i paj:, z» 

tliingSjpatii.cap S.pag.j 5: i .: ^ cap;^. pag.2 jp^^Sc c^p.jf P'ig«S ^1. 

^ ■-:■■ - $69. 

Gonfcience. The condition of the co'uewdwf 
is promifed in tlie cQvenc^ itifMlt^ 

Guiltinefleof C««/?/c«£CiWhich cap^4.pag.Z7|. , .,;;[, dj^.s.v •:.'; 

It 



An AlfhahetUsUTalfU, 



\ 



It is not the caufe of fulfilling 
the promifc.pag. i7f. 

The external! betrothing by 
Covenant may be broken, but not 
the imernall. pag. 17 j. 274* 

The benefits promifed in the 
C6venant being c6parcd amongil 
thcmfelvcs , one is as it were a 
condition to another, but they be 
all cffeds in refpcft of the grace 
and free favour of God, promi- 
fing them in etvenant , and cer- 
taincly conferring them upon 
whom he will pag. 27 j. 

Courage, 

Chriftians being fpiritaall foul- 
diers mull put on Courage, par. x. 
cap. 6. pag 29J- 

Cowardifc doth encourage Sa 
tan, courage daunts hinu pag. 291 
297. 198. 

No course without faith, ibid. 
& cap. 7. pag. 31^. 

Faith maketh cowi^ieus and 
hardy in the profcffion of the 
Gofpell, even to the lofle of goods 
and liberty, par. i. cap. 10, pag. 

It puts into us courage and con- 
ftancy , to fight againft the 
ftrongcft lulls, and fet upon the 
prafticeofthc moft difficult du- 
ties, par. ». cap. 9. pag. 381. 

It entouragetb to the moft dim- 
cult, painefull, and(in the worlds 
eftecmej difgracefuU workes of 
our calling par.».ca.io.p3g.59i. 

The Devillwill renew his af- 
faults againft us, and we muft re- 
new our courage and ftrength a- 
gainfthim,pag. J95. 300. 



D 



cap 



B4rtht}^7)eltghtt. 

•He abufe of Earthly flight 
many wayes hurtfull. par. 2. 
I. 8. pag, 36^. 

T^eliveranee. 



God hath promifed to his chil- 
dren dtliverancs out of trouble, 
par. ». cap. 7. pag- ?X4. 

Faith after ferious hum'iliation 
of the foulc, bringeth tidings that 
God will fend helpe and deUve 
ranee in fittcft feafon,p j if .3 1# 

God ufually granteth ^te/we- 
r««cgwhen the affliftions of his 
fervants bee incrcafed, and fends 
helpe when to fenfe and reafon it 
is furtheft off. pag. 3 3 2.. 3 3 3. 
Gods promifing<ie/<t'cr<wce pro- 
pounds the depth of miiery as an 
argument to move his people t» 
believe his promife, pag. 334. 

The people of God praying for 
deliverance^ propound the depth 
of mifery as an argument to move 
the Lord to heare their prayer. 

pag- 3? 5- 

Faith believethone contrary in 

another, and out of deepeft di- 
fircffes gathers affurancc of fwee- 
teft deliverances i pag, 3 3 ?• 3 34' 

Deftrt. 

*Defre is either of want or 
complacency, par. ». cap; 4. pagi 

All holy dafires kindled by 
faith, par. t. cap. 2. pag. ii4' 

To de fire and Ung after tor-i 
eiycncffe an aft of faith, ibid. 1 
^ n g Thisl 



Jin^AlfhtibftkAUTahl^. 



^oflrinc. 



' T his (/ejfJrcarifeth from the ne- temptation to dot his children 
ceflity an^ excellency of forgive- good^ ibid, 
neflcjpag. »i4, ii J. 

It is not a dead or";fluggi{h 
wifh, but a deliberate </e/5rCjatten- 
ded with a proportionable care to 
get the thing defiredjp.a 1 5^x1^. 

Earneft ^e^re of more graca is 
not taken away, but iacreafcd by 
the participation of gracCj par. z j 

ca:4,pag. l7^ , 1 • u- l 

' Faith in receiving the Lords rauti is one thing, the private aft 
Supper doth Iharpen fpiritnall <jp. of the hcart.rclying upon the pro- 
pc^//^e, and liiirs up hungring and mifes of mercy, another, par: i, 
thirlting after Chr;ft and his be- cap;6,pa: 77. 
nefits,par.2,ca:ii,pag.4i7. What^affr/we^ are called mat- 
In temptation the godly are tcrs offaithjpar.i,ca;y,pa; j8. 



All Chriftians fljould acquaint 
thcmfclves with the i^atiw of 
faith, par. I, ca: I J pa: I. 

The fumme of daSlrine, to be 
believed tofalyation, is explancd 
ia the Creed : but the iaSfrine of 



In a large acccpution,all truth 
revealed by God in his Word, 

is a matter of faith : ftriftly and 
properly, they arc called matters 
of faith,which pcrtaine to the na- 
ture and eflence of faith^ibid. 

doubting* 



oft deceived touching their </e- 
yireofgracc, par, I. ca: iij pag; 
187. 

7>igikncc ot difiru/l 

diffidence in Gods power^mer- 
ey, goodhcfTe, truth and provi- 
dence is to be abandoncdj par; 1 . 
ca: i»,pag 181. 7>oubting may fom^times ac- 

Thc hope of prefervation flay- company fiume aflGni,par. 1^ ea* 3 , 
inguponour owne flrength, is pa. ao. -, ,i .u . . /-i - '1 1 -(- 
fclfe-confidencc, and the feare of Faith is oft mixed with (Jouht- 
falling away arifing from the w^ through our infirinity,ibid-& 
fenfe ofwcakenefie is</i^(/g»cein ca. 6, pa. 8i, 
God, ibid. Fa.th doth fometimcS waver 

2?'yfr«/?breedethniGeMcs,fearc and ftaggcr touching the very 
and fluggifnnefl'e, par: 2, ca; 10. principles themfelycs, and imme- 

pagi 594. diate Word of God fpar, 1, ca, 8. 

2)f/?r«/? iii the temporall pro- pi. 93, 108. 
mifes hath diiyen the faithfull to Many good Chriflians live long 
many hard fhifts, beenc the occa- in feare and doubt, ywho would be l 
fionof diverfc flips and falls, par, content to take any paincs to bee I 
2, cap. 8, pa. 3 52. fetled in afltu\mce of Gods love, l 

2)i/?rMy?inthepromife$ofper. par. », ca, 2, pa. zay.- ••.:. ■ 

feveranceisthecaufeofmahypcr-" - Mif-conceit diat ' God hath 
plexities wherewith Chriflians made no promife of mercy unto 
are entangledjpar.a,cap.f jp, 177. them,is the main caufe whymany 
How God doth order this Chriflians^o«&; and feare^pjijo* 

' * lon^^rancfi 



An AlphahticallTa^^e, 



Ignorance of the nature of 
faith, the v^ay to get affurancc, 
andthctrueufcoffanaification, 

i$ the caufc why many deuht.^.i 3 1 
Many that truly believe, cm- 
nor ccttaincly affirme that they 
believc,pai-a,ca:j,pag:i8. 

Itis notthe office of faith to 
maimalnc fcarcsand (^t/J'fr,' but 
throuah the ftrength of conupti- 
on and wcakncfli; of faith wc arc 

oftaflaulted, par.i ,ca:8,pag;§i- 
Motions to diftiofl argue faith 
tobcweake, par:i. cap:io,pag. 
.I4?.&capispag:i66 butfauh 
may be true and lively thanj but 

weakc:-pag, 167. 

In refpea of the believer him- 
fclfc donhting is a v%'eakcnc{re to be 
vyitUifood asd overcome ; but by 
the vrife proyidencc ofGoditis 
diCpofed for his good p; 1 69, 1 70- 

Troubles and fcarcs by the wiU 
providence of God make for the 
incrcafc and confirmacion ot 
faitli.par;t,ca:8,pa§:m- 

We may not spprovc rfowWJng 
for the geod thatQod vtorkcs by 

it- past III. ,. . 

In the middtft of all fearcs 
faith i« ftill running uiatoCod. 
par:i,c».8jp3g>5' 



king into the bookc of Gods Ele 
ition,ibid. 

If Satan temptcth is to doubt 
of the promifes, bccaufe we know 
not whether we be of the number 
of the Eleif, wee muftholdfueh 
fuggeftions to arife from the Spi- 
rit of crroiir, and notheatkcn un- 
to hinijibid. 

We come to know out Eleflion 
by the eff;dts thereof , as Faith, 
luttificatioMjSanaiHcationjpar-.i. 

cap;7,pag.85« 



ELeSfion i» a« aft imipanent and 
cternall,par:i,cap:7,pag:89. 
The word of life,no« the fecret 
decree of God, is th« rule accar- 
! ding to which woe muft walke. 
' parfi,cap;ia,pas;i^6. • 

Wee arc bound to receive the 
ofFor of mercy and foroiveneffc 
made in the Gofpcll without loo- 



Enour. 

All Errour or misbeliife doch 
not deftroy the truth of faith, par 
i.cap,3,pag.'vi. 

Evidence, 

MAny objcfls of faith may al- 
fo be cfi^/f wr.pa V»^ 3»P* ' ^j 
There is an evidence direa,and 
an evidence by confcqucncc,p.2». 
The apprehenfion of the joyes 
of heaven cannot bee diftintft in 
this lift.-but that God hath provi- 
ded fuch joyes j$ cert«inc and 
evident, f3g.li. 

I,xaminatio)t. 

■Ex4mif4tionoUoann»^yJ^>^ 
touch- flon« is commanded ot 
God.par.i,cap.3,pag.i7. 

Wc muft examine our hearts to 
find out the fins which haply do 
hinder comfort,par. 1 ,c 1 a,p. 1 7 » 

If God blcffc us not according 
to promife, the firft work of faith 

is toranfacke and fanne the foule 
narrowly, to find out andremate j 
whatfocver doth oftcnd,par.i»".| 
8«,357.&^cap.io,pag.j^9j^.^.^\ 



Aft AlphAhetieallTAble, 



troubles, pag! J 5 J. 

Experience of Gods power and 
goodneflc in bringing us alive in- 
to the worldjfhould bee a meancs 
to fupport faith in the moft hope- 
Icfle condition, pag: 353,345. 

F. 

Faiths 

DTverfe acceptations of the 
word raithj par.i,cap:i,pag. 
2, J. 

How and in what refpefts/^j/jf, 

isncccflaryjibid. >- 

Snitsof/a?/i&,ibid. 

What thefc phrafcs, Faith of 

Clrifi, & Faith ivhieb u by Cbrifi, 

Faith on Chrifi, and Faith in 



Examination of oiur liearts is a 
neceflary duty, but to \>t done in 
due order, fo as w«e bee flirred up 
unto,not driven from the pradice 
of other duties no kfl~e needfull. 
par. 2. cap. 6. pag. 305. 

Faith tcacheth in time of affli- 
aionto examine our wayes that 
wee may find out what is amific. 

par;»,€ap:7,pag:3^»j J35>« 

Mxample See Commandement 
and Fromife* 

Experience. 

Experience and fenfe is a fiay or 
prop for our better eafc, not the 
ground upon which our faith lea- 
ncthjp.ir; ijcap: 1 a,pag: 177. 

Faith goetb before experreacc, C^'n/jdonotCjpag. 5. 
and waiteth for falvation in the There is a fained and dead 
depth of mifery, grounding it felf fawi&jandafoveraigne, well roo- 
upon the tender mercy and faith- ted,unfained/<«i/ipar; i,cap;4, 
full promifc of Qod, ibid, P^g'4f3f4. 

Experience is of great ufe ia a The Author and worker of 
godly life to confirmc faith, &c. /(J/Yib is God in Chiift by the Holy 
par;2,cap;io,pag:38^,par:ijCap: Ghoft,par: r, cap; 2, pag; 7,8. 
ii,pag:i^3. A twofold workc of God in 

The fmallcft beginnings are prodUcingJ^»/ir/&jpag'. 10, ii, 
pledges ofgreater favours, pari 1, /<*i?fc is a free workc of Gods 
ca; 1 2, pag: 171. grace, par: i, cap; 2, pag: 7. 

Prcfent and former blcfllngs af- Though God give noifaith un% 
fureeffuturcprotedionaadcom- to all men, hec violently with- 
fort,par:i,cap;3, pag;a3.becaufe h<ilds faith from none that fee- 
God is unchangeable, the fame keth it, pag; 14. 
forever, par: I, cap; 11, pag: 163. As the beginning, fo the in- 

Having once found Itrength creafe and progrefle of jfiw'fi is of 
and ie/iverawce.in temptation and God, pag; u. 
diftreflgjby flying to God in How/tfiA& is the worke of God, 
Chrift , w€« know by Experience and the ad of man, pag: i z. 
what to doe, when fuch like ftatt Kflowlcdge concurres to the 
rcturncth onus,par;2,c.7, p: .301, being of^ffi^jpar:i,cap: j,pag:i5 

Experience of Gods dealing 16 . See I^nonfledge. 
with us in former diltrefles is a Faith and evidence may ftand 
meanestofiipport faith in prefent together, pag: ip. 

Faith 



An Aif^^^^**^^^^'^^^^^' 



^faith anT Science aix habits 
that may ftattd together, ibid. 
faith ii an 3ffent,pa.i S^ip.bec 

JfT^nt. , . , . 

In it owne nature fattb is op- 
pofite to doubting, pa.io, &~ca. 
8, pa. 91 



TAtth is the meafure of love, 
pa. 41. 

HoYV the gpodnefi* of God it 
the objed both of our faith and . 
love, pa. 59. 4®. SttGoo^cJJl on 

In rtfpcft of fpirituall life/i«fc 

- ^r^M.r t.U«*^ /-U-jrit-v -n. 



P^' ^.^ a u «,• . ;n lU fuH- i» more necclTary then charity,p. 
jfT^iffc mutt be entire m all fun- ^^^ .^^^^ ^^^^^^^^. ^^^ p^-. 

damcntallpoints.pa. ri. ^^jcly, and for his owns ufe, ibid, 

/aiffcis an affiance,bee Affiana ^ ^^>^ ^^ ^^^^^^ ^^^^^ ^^^j^^^ 

8c confidence. r ,,„^„orefl'8 of Juftification,/«rr& muft be pre- 

Severall words ufed to expreuo J 

thenatureofrhat/<«rA,whKhthe ^^^n w J c,„fe the Apoftle 
Lord requires of his people,^ pai ^^.^^ ^^ ^^^ ^^^^ ^ .^jj,^^ ^^^ ^^^, 
''kowM* is the fubftance of nt/ofaith^ithoutmrk,^uical' 
things hoped for, and the evi- P'| jj/^ ^reth up and direftcth 
dence of things not fcene,p 25 «9 , ^ ^f ^he fo.ulc in 

Confidence oft pnt for fmh 2,^, operations, par. J, ca. 4 

^^biffcrcnce betwixt /flir& and PJ'^fj-jJ^^l^uey^ifB which is fevc> 

hope, pa. 30. u».^ red from good workes,pa. 54. j6. 

/^«fe ordinarily rule th where '^'^^J'^^^^i, ^ pevfcacd by works 

i:dwelletb,but the rule is mild "°^^^"; ^ 

andgcntle,pa.3f. ^„„,m ^ Vtf f Jt movcth and ftirrcth afFc- 

Thc ftrength oifatth is equall >« ^ j^ccording as the nature of 

tothepromifesoflife,andto the ^}^'''^^l telifved fhould and j 
offices of piety and love. pa. '^^^^J^^,^,, ,sof the Crc- 

'"uitV. oppoCed towa.e.„g, --^f^^S^^^^^^^^^ 
dc«ble-mindednes,difobed:ence. ^y^'^;^";,>573.6o.6i. ^ 

ibid. , c r/,'»tl> doth reft upon and cm- 

Ac Word inco ".ry Acuity of ^"^^^/foftkaMteptomifobc 
„ftc,howfe»crJefeanefordc- 5° ""f >„ „,f,„ i„„edibU , .n 

/«,V.par ., ca: 4, P'- S'- S« fj,*2J. «t,o hath takc» 

f orwe and Lo-ue. nnr nature . which fhould eiicou- 

f^irfeworkethbylove. tmd is ^;7„\^j;VaTevc,p.x.c.xi.p.i5t. 

notwioughtby love,p.4i,44-5 »• "S^"' ^® ^"^3 ^ '^*^ faifl 



An Alfhaheticall Table, 



Faith cannot take and Ica?e, ftrongly fhaken and greatly af- 

yeeld and with-hold affent at faulted, pag^^, SteTemptations. 

plcafurc, part and mangle, divide i''di/fc that is fincercm quality, 

with times, feafons, and private is ever found in degree, and doth 

rcfpeaSapag.66,par.ZjCa. 9jpag. confirme and itrengthen it fclFe 



What God approveth, that is 
pleafing to/di/i, though ccolTe to 
agejediicationjcuftomejcredit^&e. 
ibid. 



every day more and more, par. i. 
". 3 J pag.J ?. Faith s fomctimes 
litcle and wcake par i,cap.4 oacr, 
SO. 

There are diverfe degrees of 



Faith fubdneth theftrongeft faith^UttUjaitb^g'tatfaitb, Ml 
paflions as well and (if due and affuraace ofjfvji//5i, par, i, cap, 8. 
right comparifoa bee made) as pag. 109, ca. io,pag. I40. par. a. 



much as the weakeft, pa. 6jj 6gj 
70. &«: 10. pa. 13^, pa. 2, ca. 
9.pag. J76, 

In particular pradifes the faith- 
full may faile,but the conftant re- 
folution of the believer is to 
cleave unto God,pag. 68 i 

Faith is nectflaryto falvation, 
but full affnrancej that I believe 
in fuch fort, is not of like ncceffi- 
ty,par. i,ca.7,pag,84. 

The dayes of faith are as the 



cap 3. pa 244. 

The/<ii/fe of the ele£l is finccre, 
thzfaithoi Corns perfed in com- 
parifon of others, but abfolately 
faith is perfed in none, pag. 141, 
par. i,ca. ig, pag. 189. 

Faith is impcrfed extenGvely 
and intenfively, pag. 141. 

The faith of the weakeft Chri- 
ftian is fufficient to falvation. 
pag. 141. 

The degrees of true and lively 



feafons of the yeare, fomc fairc, /dirfe may be confidered according 
fomefoule,par.i,ca S.pag.Qi. to the diverfe growths which 

There is a ftate wheid'n faith God bringeth his children unto, 
is a fmoking weake , defiring it their time and raeanes of grace. 



could bclieve,rather then getting 
up CO feele it felfe believe, pa. 94. 
In which cafe want of feeling ar- 
gueth not want oi faith, pa i, ca. 
la. pa. 169. 

Chiiftians cannot alwaycs 
iudgeofthatthey do, nor of the 
great confequcnces thereof , 
though y4f/)[> be not troubled, pa. 
94. 

There is a ftate wherein faith 
is exencifed with temptations ibid 
In which the weake in faith muft 
notmeafure themfelves by their 
owneprefent feelings and infir- 
mities, par. I , cap; 1 1, pag, 1 6g, 



p3g.I45. 

Fourc degrees oi faith, ibid. 

Faith is weake in knowledge, 
affent, confidence and the fruits 
thereof, pag 145, 144. 

The weakeft/d/f J is advifedly 
ref-slved to fticke faft unto the 
promifes of life, as much better 
then the pleafures and profits of 
this life. ibid. 

Faith wsakt in one refped may 
be ftrong in another, pag. 1 4 j. 

A weake and ftrong/di/i diflFer 
not in nature and plantation, but 
in degree, pag. 14^. 



,^ ,,^ ^^ ^ . ,, The bene6ts of the weafccft | 

Sometimes the ftrong faith is faith , if true and livclyi ibid. S 



An J/phaheticallTai>le, 



&cap. ii.pag. 167. 

Wen^ouldftrive to be ftrong 
andrichin/;»ir&,pai-.i,ca.lo-paS- 

' Wcakc/dt/l^^if foundjWill grow 

and inci-eafe, ibid, , . , „ 

The benefits of ftrong/a//», p- 

'"^Me'anesfor the rigbt planting 
of/«i/lb,par;i,cap;ii,pagi53- 

' %itheticc obtained is ferioufly 
to be regarded, pa. i S 8, 1 5i>>«c. 

The labour taken about the 
prefervatlon of faitb is m^re 
fweet then any pleafure or delight 
in the world, pag. 160. 

Mcancs whereby /fli/fe IS ft'^cng^ 

thened and confirmed, pag. i&o- 

161.&C. , 

Wc muft eftccme/aiffe to bee 
our richeft jcwcll , and nioft pre- 
cious treafure in this life, ibid. 

Faith increafeth by exercile, 
and groweth by continuall ule. 
pag.i64,pa.'.,ca. I,pa.l9^ 

Many eviUs follow the weak- 
niBgcffaiffe,ca,ii,pa.i64.anJ 
no Icffe the negleft to nounlh 
and pref«Yeit,par. i,cap,i i.pag- 

r'aithmiy be true^though much 
were amjffe when fiiftwee recei- 
ved the truth, par. 1, ca. 12, pa. 

''si'eht oifaith^^y ^^ ^'^ /^'^f 
our knowledge , and the lively 
funaions thereof intevmutcd, 
par. i,ca3,pa.i8,&ca. 12. pa. 

, ' ^F J/l may be ftrong, when we 
have nofenfc nor iccling ot mcr- 

'^'SiV«s*an incftimable price 
upon the peatlc of the Gofpell. 
par. «,ca.9,pa. 576. 



In the workes of our calling 
/<jj^j[) teacheth to leane upon the 
living God, and not on oar skil, 
and cunning, par. 2, ca. lo. pa. 

Itfubmittethto Gods direai 
on, pa. 397- dependeth upon his 
heipe and allilbnce, ibid, waiteth 
for goodfuccefle,pa. $99. 

fflfrbfeedethupon ev?ry part 
of the Word , getteth intcreft in 
every promife,3nd fucketh vigour 
out of it,par.2,ca.i i,pa.4o6. 

The Faitb of one may helpc to 
obtaine for another, fof?.rrc as it 
movcth to pray for others, par. I. 
cap, io,pa. 1 40. 



Faithfulnejfe. 

Faith put for truth, fidelity or 
ftfi/fc tt/»e/e, pa' i»ca- 1, pa. z. 

faith caufcth diligence and 
faitbfulnefe in all workes and bu- 
finefTes of our calling, par. i, ca. 

pag 590j39** 



lOi 



Falling. 



Many good Chriftians through 
feare o( falling away are entan- 
gled with divers perplexities, par. 

'The Temporary believer who 
wasneverknituntoChnftasa 
living, naturall,and proper mem- 
ber,mayfaU away from tha 
which he fcemed tohave:but 
the true believer, who receiveth 
newfupply of grace commually 

ftom S.ntt the fountaine of 
grace,(hallnever be utterly defti- 

^"^^h^^lXmayfallintofome 
fouleandenormious crime wa- 
fting conference, andfor at me 

^ G g 4 i£i: 



An AlphabeticallTAble, 



loofc fome degree of ne wnefle of 
Spirit, clcaneflc of heart, comfort 
of the HolyGhoft, and peace of 
Confcfencc,par.i,ca;83p3; 1 1 8, 

Faith fhewes a man his owne 
WeakcnefTe, how apt he is not on- 
ly tQfallj but to faU away, ftures 
upholyjealoufie & fufpitionleft 
he ihonUfaUi but yet makss con- 
fadent in God through Chriit to 

beuphcld, pa.'28a,z8^,i87^,88, 
289, 

Hethattrufts not in himfelfc, 
but in the power of God, will 
though hc/a/^f oft, ftill have hope,' 
and renue his courage to fet upon 
his enemies after fome foiles re- 
ceived, pa. 1, ca; 6, pa. z j^-. 



Feare is a deceitful! and malit/- 
ous paffion,tyrannicall,iaih and 
inconfiderate, proceeding many 
times from want of judgment, 
more then from the prcfence or 
approach of ci^ill to bee feared 
par: i,c3. 12, pa; i8i, 

Feare, doubting , fcebleneffe, 
tainting,nicetehdernefleor mel- 
ting of heart in trouble, proceeds 
from infidelity and diftruft, par; 
i, ca: 7,paiggo. 

ExuQivcfear^ bnngs that up. 
onus from which wee efpecialiy 
defire to be freed, fets open the 
heart to Sathans malicious temp- 
tations,and binds the hands that 
they can make no rcfiftance, par, 
I, ca. 1 2, pa. 18 j^par. 2.ca.6 pa. 
Z97, 298. - "^ ^ 

, Anaffliaedfpirit, tofledwith 
feare & terror, through the tcmp- 
tanons of Sathan, is unable Jo 
judge of It owoe eflate, par. 2, ca' 
'6. pag.joi^^oj. 



Slavifh/e^re is to be ftfiven a, 

rt^f/^*'"^ of caution to bee 
chenfhed,par.2,ca.. ,»^pa.4,,^' 

F0rme. 

The fome is th^ beginning of 
aaions,par.i,ca:4,p!.4^.^°' 

..C^ n\^T'''^^'^'^'-»i^and 
accidentall, ibjd. 

It is the efrentiall/or»,e or aa of 

fauhtoacceptofthcpromifesof 
mercy, pa. 59, 

Charity may be called an acci- 
dentall/orMeoffaith,pa,4o. 
Faith is not quickened by cha- 

rityGrtheworkesofchaiity,but 
quickenerh,pa. 44. ^ 

Fnt'teill 



If'snotthegoodufeofamaas 
]Tn.mU that makes him differ 

tromothermen,par.,,ca.,,pa9. 
rhercarenofeeds of faith in 
our nature, ibid. 

Of our felves we have no pow- 
er to beIieve,or prepare our fclyes 
thereunto, pag, 7. 

The infufion of faith is neccf- 
lirily precedent to the a(ft of faith 
par." I J ca: 10, pa. 1^6. 

Man cannot naturally either fee 
and perceive^ or WiII & defire the 
things of God, pa. 10, 11. 
. Thereisnonaturall difpofiti- 
on m the will of man to ccme un- 
to God. pag. If. 

It is God that inclines the will 
agreeably to the difpofition of it 
tocomcuntohim,ibid. 

How it \s true that wee believe 
becaufc we will believe, pa. i a. 
Faith i% a work^not of the po'w- I 



er 



An AlphahticaU Table. 



cr o£om free-mil, but of the effi- 
cacy of gracc,pai-.i,ca. io,pa.i36. 
The leflc able we are to belicvc, 
the more carefuil fhouid wc be, 
to ufe the meancs, that God hath 
ordained jthat we might obtainc 

IffaithwGvethewoikeof our 
freemUit might well periflij^par. 
a, cap. 5,pag-i89. We could have 
no lett or quiet concermng our 
future eftate,pag. 479' , . 

He that relics upon the good 
afc of his freewiU, muft neceflan- 
ly afcribe the praife of his pcrfeve- 
rancein part, if not principally, 
unto himfelfe, par. z, ca, 5, pa. 

Tnigdiiy> 

He that ejipef^s Gods helpe, 
when meanes faile, cannot lavifh 
indiscreetly when his cup runneth 
over, par. », cap. 8, pag, 357. 

J^7. 

G. 

Gifts. 

Faith is &gift of God moft free 
aidprofitable,par.i-,ca.i, pag.7. 

It is agi/? of free, eternall, and 
unchangeable love, pa. 9. 

Goodnefe of God. 

Thcgoodnefe of God is the ob- 
jea of our charity, by bemg fiiit 
I the objeft of our faith, par. i,eap. 

Ouraffeftions cannot in love 
move to, and unite thcmfelvcs 
with God.till by faith wc know 
him to bean amiable objea for 
us finncrs to;cmbtacc,pa. 47* 



Gojpell. 

Faith put for the GoJpell,p^v.i* 
ca. I, pag. z. 

Grace or free favour. 

It is through Grace that men 
believe, par: i , ca. i, pag. 7. 

It is of grace that one doth be- 
lieve,and not another, pag. 3 . 

Grace or mercy is freely promi- 
fed that we might believe , and 
vouchfafed to him that doth be- 
lieve, par. 2, ca. x, pag. 111. 

Life is through faith , that it 
might be oigrace,ip3v. z,c. i,p.l9^ 

Pardon of fin is offaith, that it 
might be of^r«ce,par.i,ca.z,pag. 
zi 1.212. 

SalvatiS it felf is of^r<jce,a$ well 
as any benefit we havc^, tending 
thereunto, par. 2,cap.43p3g,z5a. 
Which fhould quicken faith in 
the promife of falvation,pag.z6s. 

Grace or gifts of grace. , 

Faith acquaints a man with his 

€mptincsof^mce,par 25C.3,p.24^ 

Faith is diligent in the ufe of 

the meanes of grace, but reftcth 

not in them, pa. Z42. 

Faith being the pipe whidi coiv 
veyes all grace from Chnit the 
fountaine, they that would be in- 
richedwith grace, muft bee knit 
unto Chrift by faith.pa.z44. The 
want of this is the trwe caufe, why 
men labour in valne to praftue 
fome particular vcrtue,pag.i44-. 

They that would perfeverc in 
grace, muft be knit to Chrift by 
f3ith,par.z,ca,5.p.ig. a«f. 

The believer doth not rehe up- 
on thofefanaificd gr^ce^, which 
are given unto him,that he might 



An A/pkaheticall Table, 



be qualified and fitted to plead pag. 17^. 186. 

for ^racc and mercy, par. a, ca. 2. Thc^rdceiofGoddoebbeand 

pag, 21 J. flowinhisf«ivants,pag.!7j, 

Graceh given frccIy,not defer- In Geds dcareft children there 

ved by workcs, yet by the ap- may bedecayofgracMin part,and^ 

pointmentofGod, he that would for atimcj pag. 171, 17} Leftif 

encreafe in gracCy muft employ we had attaiaed facility in all 

what he hath receivcd,par.ZjCa,3. things^w: /hould thinke that our 

owncj which is meerely his work. 



pag. Z45. 

We arc aflurcd from God that 
he will perfeS the worke of grace 
which he hath begiin,par.»; ca: 5. 
pag.27 5.andca, 9. pag. 57 J', 

The ieaft meafure of fanftify 



The Lord.many times with- 
drawes the ufe of fome particular 
grace, that fome other may in 
greater meafure fhcw forth it 
ing^mce, isanearneft of further felfcjibid. 
grace to be received, par. z. ca. 5. In the time of temptation the 
pag. 24f. godly want the fight of Gods^ra- 

Grace is an evidence, pawnCjOr cei-inthem, p.ir. 2, cap, 6. pag. 
carneft,yea the beginning of glo- 30 1. 
ry^par. 2,c2,4,pag.2 53,25 5,256. This comes to paffe/ometimes 

According to the meafure of through feare, fometimes through 
^rdjcereceived/oisthelifcofglo- pcttiflmeffe, pag. 301,304. 
ry be§uninus,ibid.&pag,26)J. Grace may appearc to others 

LivelinclTe and a^ivencfle whcnin the time of temptation a 
may be lefle when the truth of godly man cannot difcernc it in 
grace is the greater, par. z. ca. 6. himlclfe,par. i.ca. 12. pag. 190: 
pag. 3ii.&pani.ca.i2.pag, 187. par. 2, ca. 6, pa. 302, 503, 31-1. 

<?r^fc may be true whiles it is True^race, well planted in the 
fmall,par.i.ca.i2,pag. 17 i, heart, how weake foever, fhall 

Noneattaine to perfeftion of holdout for ever^paMjCa. 12. pa. 
grtffem this.Iife,ibid. Therefore 182, 

wc muft feeke to be cured of our The long and manifold temp- 
weakenefle, and not<lefpaire of tations, wherewith the godly are 
life, ibid. cxercifcd, is to them an argument 

The^rdce of God workcs not oi grace received, pa. 303. 304. 
alwaies alike in his children, par. inrefpedof the exad meafure 
».cap.6.pag.305.3 1 i.par i.cap, la of grace and ftrength, the regcnc- 
pag. 1I7. rate arc oft deceived, but of the 

The effefls of grace doe not al- truth of grace they may be aflured, 
waies appeare the famejyea fome- par. 1 , ca. 8, pag. 100 



times they fecme to be quite 
overwhelmed, par. i,ca; 8. pag. 
92 



He that fees himfelfe mifcrable 
by finne, though hee can fee no 
grace in his fbule,fs called to come 



Graces may lie hid, and worke unto C hiift,anfl believe, that hec 
in refpefit of our acknowledge- . might receive of his fulncffe, par, 
meat infenfibly. par. i. cap. 13. i, £ap. iz, pag, 176, 190. i9i. 

par. 



An A^pha^eticaU Table, 
Glatk. 



Faith feaConeth every faculty of 
foule,reafonablc and l'enfuall,pai-. 
i.cap. 3.pag>34'P^i'« zeap.^.pag 
587. 

;r<,ofnArdon By faith Ghriil dweUeth and 

i:aith in the Vf^f^f^^:^^ rukth m our ie^rr.,par,i cap. 10 

maintains theg/ory of Gods grace ^ ^^ ^^^^ ^^ ^^^_ f^ ^^^^ ^ ^g^ 

'"? '; ^'ic';Srt" t?God 'that The whole hzart noteth the xn- 



Iwel.veby faith on him concer- 
Ining our future eftate,par.z.ca. 5. 

'^'!n't!mc of temptation wcglo" 
,ifieGodbybeleeving,andgr^^ 



tegrity and uprightncfle of the 
foiile,'notthcperfeaion of grace 
without any infirmity or defeft. 
par. I. cap. 8, pag. 101. 

- ,, u . • inc, -ind sive The fcearf unregenerate IS dc- 

rificGodbybeleevuig, and gr^e ,egenerate is 

Mm as It were a "ft^^onuU^^^^^ rVcand faitUfulI, P.grxoo. 

his truth,power,n.ercy,and good- j^ ^^^^ ^^„,'J,,\efolutions, 

ne{re,par.i,ca^6.pag.J9i. ^hefaithfullmay be ignorant of 

God is hereby muclglonhe^, their ownek.m' but of their ge- 

thatwe telle upon him m time f^they may betruely 
of dilUefle, par. z. cap. 7. PV^^^j-^/^J -bjd.pag. 114. & ca. 

3»9' li: pag. 174- 



Eabit- 

Not the Sflbir of faith (though 
that be neceffary) but the 
aa of faith is that which God 
commandeth in the Scriptute,paK. 

"S:dln?uf?th;he-fc.Hr of faith 
intoman,whercbyheegiyethto 

will to come unto Chsiltj pag. i o. 
II. 

Heart. 



In Scripture the IbwrMS taken 
for the whole foulc, with all its 
powers and operations, par.i. ca. 

'°Th?ic'a?eoffaithisihci<?^rf 
contrite,humbkd, bc>^,aihng fin, 
denying it felfe.andafteaed with 

defire otremiflion of hnnes, pag. 

*37. 



Did men know the worth and 
glory of the Kingdomc of heaven 
they would fceke it with all. car- 1 
neftaeffc, par. Z3cap.4. pa-i^T- 
i68. ., ,. 

Men oft fceke earthly things, 
and miffe of their defires j but the 
promife of k<»a;e»,isfure and ited- 

taft, ibid. „ ^ • r 

Sloth and carelefneffc, in fee. 

king le^veay is more t© be con- 
demned, then in matters ot the 
world, par. 2,cap.4.pag.i^4^;^^ 
caufe more griefc and heart-brea- 
king* P^S'*^^' 






An Alfhaheticall Tahfe, 



^".'4^ '^'"' ''"•''"•'•• '''s°j''»'fl'.p^-jz,>s;;nr 



Holineje, 

Our iirength is too weake for 
the workc of holim/e, if thcrfore 
weebeenotpcrfvyadcd that God 
will be with us in ir, we muft 
needs fiint and be difmaid, par. a, 
ca.j.pa. Z40.&C3 U^^'-^-JT-zf^i 

Being acquaintsd with our 
weakenefle herein, wee are hum- 
bled in our felvcs, and in all our 
purpofes and refolutions relying 
upon the power of the Lord are 
drawne to prayer, pa:24i,z47. 

Faith in the promifes of cvcria- 
ftinglifc Icadeth forward in the 
path oihoUneJfe, par. a, ca: 4. pa: 
2^54 J a^i. Heartencth in the 
workesof godlineffe againft all 
oppoGtions/pa.-ijz, z^^. 

Faith in the promife of perfc- 
verancc puts forth it felfe to per- 
formc all duties of hoUneJfe and 
love with life and fervour, par, 1. 
ca: 5, pa: 178, 284. 

Faith coveteth incr«afc of 
grace and hoUneJfe^ as men doc in- 
creafc of bodily health and 
ftrength, pa;28f, 286. 

The mora afflirance of faith, 
the more holmjfe of lik^ par.- %\ 
ca;»,pa:i26,&C3: y,pa: 278. 

Hope. 

Hfl/>e of heaven is the fure an- 
chor of the foale to eflablifh k, 
that it be not overwhelmed with 
th€ miferies ©f this life^par: 2, ca; 
4jp4:iyi,2^;,&ca; 5, paiiSo. 

Hope of heaven makes undaun- 
ted and unwearied in the wayes 



Humility. 

The ^amWefpint drinkes up 
mucn grace, and fhall bee repls- 
nifhed abundantly, pa; I. cai 12 
pa; 1 8a. 

What God gives in grace doth 
norke the heart to humility and 
tender comrmferation, par. 2, ca: 
8,pa;5j6,&ca:io,pa. jgj. 

Of all graces faith is the moft 
bumlle.^^u i,ca: j^pa: js.pa.z. 
ca: I, pa: \^6. & cap: 9. pag: 

The more fincercly faith work- 
eth, the better wee difcerne and 
unfainedly acknowledge our im- 
pcrfeaions,and difclaime all affi- 
ance in our owne rightcoufnefle, 
par. I, ca: 6, pa; 70. 

The believer, the higher hee is 
exalted by the free mercy of God, 
the lower hee is abafed in him- 
felfe, par; 2, ca. 2, pa: a»i. 

Faith in the threatnings work- 
cthhumblenej^e of mind and heart 
par: 2,ca; iz, pa.- 42 j, 



Idlenejfe, 

QUth in the worke of God how 
*^made odious, pa, 2, ca: ^, pa, 
3^3-384. 

Whenwearei<//cand folitary, 
Satan faath moft advantage to 
tempt : but confeionablc imploy- 
mcnt fhutteth the doore againft 
him, and takcth away the oppor- 
tunity, par:a,ca; 6, pa: »97,»98. 
308, 509. 

Ignorance. 



An A^ff^^^^**^^ Table, 



jgrnranceL 



Thedarkeneffeofmindeis an 
impediment to full arid perfeft 
knowkdge,parii.Ga.io pag:i4i. 

142. ' . , 

Being corapaffed about with 
the roifts oftgnorance^ wc attainc 
not the undeiitanding of many 
things i-evealedjpar. i,ca:^,pa.l 8. 
The papi fts commend Jgworawce 
and difgrace knowledge, pag: 16. 
They teach that faith is muck 
bettei- defined by igmrance thiti 
by knowledge, pag; ' 7- '^ - '^ 
Faith captivates our undeman- 
ding unto the obediecc of Ghtift, 
but is not ignorant of Chrift,p: 1 6 
Faith fubjeaeth reafon unto 
thcdoarineof Sod and hi$ reve- 
lation j but it nokher «iitmgUH 
{Keth the nature of man, notti^ 
light ofreafon, ibid. 

Imp4tmce. 

impatknee an effea of unbeliefc 
par:t,ca: i,pag: ^<^^' ' '.. ' 

impatience in afflidion proceeds 
fromguiUineffeofConfcience & 
ontamcd paffions,both which arc 
corrcfted by faith,par:z,ca:7,pag. 



and cheaiefuU undertaker of any 
paines ©r toylcjpar.ijcapaojpag. 

Nothing can fo much cncou^ 
rage, quiekert and confirme in 
paincs taking as faith, pag; 398. 

He that is filcnt e^cpefiing Gods 
helpe when meaties faile, cannot 
fit flill when meanes beeat hand. 
pari »,ca.8,p3g: 5 57,367. ;' 

Faith incites men to labout i'li 
Gods workejWho live daily on his 
allowanccipag: 1^74 



jH^rntities*' 



imflicite faith.. 

JmpHcitefaithYihit,^TiA in what 
rcfpea fo called, par: i, ca: j .pag. 

impUcite faith in them who 
know-nothing is moft abfurd,ib?d 

indufiry, ' 

Faith is t^c moft free, willing 



': •■•-"^ '•'■■' 

(The true believer is feriGblc^bF 

his manifold infirmitief and- rrfi, 

lings,par;i,ca:9,pag:58i. ' , ^ 

/»^r»«i/ief mult bee acknoVvkd" 

g«d and bewailed pSg r ? § 3 • 

The /nfmities^f,t^tS3iAti'r& 
fheif troublesy »ir-;2^a;jr,pa; j-i'^ 

Joy. ■ ;■;-' 

Idy'm the Holy QKoft a privi- 
Icdge accompanying affurince of 
faith, par:2,ca:i4)ag?»iit "^ 
. Dail y exercifc of faith prcrerves 
and enereafetlydy, pagjii?. 

The loy of a Chiiftian cxccedes 
the mirth of a worldling, ibid. & 
caf4,^p3g: 167. It depends not on 
his ou/ward condition, pag; xt^. 

loy of the Saints -here and iii 
heaven differ oaely in degree and 
manner of fruition, p3g:2z6 149. 

loy in God makes us defpilc the 
world, pag: I a I. 

Faith in the promife of hfc tc- 

joyeeth in God,par:»jCa:ijp.i70. 

In tribulationsjpag: i^i, & ca; 

-7,p3g{3 3 5.H0W itrejoyceih,pag. 

^^^' I»(ii ficationA 



t - 



An AlfhakeucaU 'tahk. 



saasi-r 



lufitfieation. 



oi- negatively, cofliidered without 
hope and charity^pa,^; g ^^^ 



Jvfiifyirig faith. 
'iufiifyir,g faith how d.-flineui- 



I : 



- Iti/^if (Walton is an aft tra.nft&nt 
&i^ ^'i3Sjmfcrring4c«ne, cbfuige 
in the.pcrron ju&iBp,d,' not, phyfit 
call, but moral! and in refp^^ft ©f 
il4te,Bar. I cap;7,paE.So* ' ' 

infuCoaof lic.luisac,.fcus- (jy free ■l¥vtliatcSrir..',i;-' /'•,''' ' ' ^ ■ 

conioaari^n ^4;>c«p„i^ai of prS';: s *, 1^^"^ '» «- 

fmion m order of na.Jre: iS- of iLt&l'^ ,'"" «f'« 

Vmh ufitfies not as an aft or lu/Iifvin^ffhh A } ' 

qualuy,buciu rece.vcthChnft. ^inSv^t/ HHl'"°''f ^^^ 

dignity or e^aU^i^cy of ,t pvyne, ^af K-pia; , ""^^"'•^^l.par.i, 

&« m refpea of t&e place and of- " Hovv i^nfay b. defined'^. , 

ficcv^hich our n»«.^dful God hath ca;,,pa.-7^ « ^^^ fined, par. i, 

fredyand^bcrally granted unto C. 1^... ..n cncly is 

mS^I^S^^r^^'l"^^^^ , ^^^^4M^:niScJ/J;:hin- 

8f,S8,par.ijCa;2,pag;2i8.' ^ 
■ .. ^*Qju!ipying faith . 

.0 f i^r&^,^"<f;S s rc;';^«;T'**'"■"^.•^■ 
prom r""»1s "'*''"'«'''" "'■-i-eoll.d ,cccrd»g ,o fh^ 

bopc o CharTvf: r ^"- °"' tobeconlideted; The conLori 

rJn„\u ■ ■ l'^'"'*^^"^*'''''^^^"''- naturc.&the fpccigcall plantati 

"^g thcrcvvuh m lu^ifcatimMz on & fovcraig/ty p^r-^Ji^^; 

Jufiijyin^ 



propel- unto man in thj$ Iife.in his 
journey towards hi» perfea home 
and etetaall habitation, ibid 



4>i AtfhibeticAB TaUK^ 



imfying f*itb IS conhderca, 
' cither acc^iaing to its moll emi- 
'' nent a(f^,whrcb is to-juMe,Q^ Ac- 
cording to its full and adequate 
ad,par;i,ca:5,p3g.'58.& f^^- ^ 

CI* 1 pS". iOO* 

' The objeftof/a/fi,3/f«^ M& /» 
mofold; i.Gcnerall,tT^c^holc 
truth ofGodrevealedia his Word 

/M/i/yw^/^^^fc'S a particulars: 

certainc confidence, par i, ca: 7. 

paa.70.that is, it particularly rc- 

. lic?h upon the grace of God mjc- 

fusChriftto obtaine pardon and 

for^ivenefie. , , , 

True faith in Ghrift doth breed 

confidence and boldnefle,pag;8 1. 

expell utter defperaiion, ibid. 

TobtlicveonChnft, istore. 

ccivcChriftandfcede upon him, 

ibid. : • 

Faith is ccrtainc tn event not 
ever in fence, pag: 8 J. ' 

Jufiijyirtg faith is an obcdicBtiali 
affiance,conjoynedwith affeaion 
of piety, par:i,ca:;,pag-i4A"." 

io,pa£^:l37« • ,, , , 

' lufii'yingjaith^lt^wcth to the 

Commandements, as neccflary, 

good, and worthy to bee ftucke 

unto,pag:i4,&ca:s,pa§:66. 

'*■ Sqc Commandment i. 

Butjufiiffeihhy receiving the 

oik of righieoufnefic, which is by 

die merit of IcfHsChrift.par; i,ca; 

Faith feeketh not life and fal.. 
vationinthe threatnings, prohi- 
bitions, or Commandementsjbut 
jefteth upon the ptomiUs of mer- 
cy in Jefus Chrift,pavu,ca.6,pa§. 

In what fenfc wee read the be- 
liefc of a temporary pronufc was 
accounted for righteoufncfle,ibid. 



The faith 06 Abraham^ vvhich 
was fixed upon the gracious pro- 
mifcj^id-rulbiae-.u felfc. bj5.til>e 
cofifidcracion b£Gods pon'cr,^.^g. 
72,73.' ..-iMoJ-^n;;.! -1 ; .: . , 

Faith receitefh tte pardon of 
Gn as it is profercd in .th« word of < 
grace, par. i, ca.r,pa§. 87. 
Before the aft o£ Iujfiftcati3^ahh ■ 
hath for obje<^ this, propofition 
concerning the future j To me be- 
lieving my fins fiwli b« forgiven, 
ibid. 

No man isjupfiei by believing 
hii-nfelfe to b« juft, nor pardoned 
by believing, that he is pardoned, 
pag. 8f. • ■■'■ ■ - 

To believe, that I ain one ©t 
Gods Elca people, and that my 
finnes are pardoned and done a- 
wayis a privilcdgeofgwcc,gran- 
ted to him who belicvcth, is fea- 
Iedb5tti£Spuit,and knov^cths^f- 
furedly that he bcUevtth,pag. S-f. 

8«. - ■ ' ■ "■' 

Aflurancc that our finnes arc 
pardaned is concluded i'\ a pra- 
aicall fyllogifmc, thus \ Hee that 
-truly beicevcth hath . obtJmed 
pardon of his finnes, par. 86. 
-• Sec Salvafion. 

lu/iifyingfaithcaimot be with- 
ont love, and how that i» confar- 
mcd,par.i,c3.4,pag46547«p3>^^ ^' 

"'TheSfibat /u/^/.e^fc islivc- 
lyandoperative,par.i,ca. a^pag. 

*' Dead faith is unavailcable to 
/«,f ii?f<»H9«,asincft=auall tofct- 
fon the affections throughout, & 
incite to uniformc afts^of love. 

par. I, ca. 4,pag. 4?' ,r„- ' f 
/ The cffec'^s-aird benefits ot 

/i/y7i;;t;^/di/fc,par. x,«.ie,p^6- 
i3U^ih^n> Sundry \ 



Aft 



Atfushetkdll Tdfe, 



Sundry effeds odu/^ijying faith 
par. i.ca.i.pag.4.&€a.4. pag.42, 
4J.Ff«*.".i.pagi^6.i97. 

ThcbfnGfitsand fruits of this 
faith be found, comfortable and 
enduring, par. i. ca. i©. pag. r j 4. 

Faith is a caufe oncly inftru- 
mentalljand that is attributed to 
it ■vyhicii the prineipall caufe wor- 
keth.pag. ijj. 

K. 

K^ngdameofGsd. 

Many bee of the Kjingiome of 
<?c<(?in profcflion, which be not 
fo in Elcdion, par. i, ca. 4. pag. 

Knitvledge, 

Knmlet^e is twofoId,Of reafon 
Of rcvelatioo^par. i.ca. 3, pae i < 

par. 2.ca.2.pag.2i^. 

Faith put forChriftian l(^no)v^ 
ledge, par. i .ca. i .png. x. j . 

Things neccflary to be knowne 
cannot be apprehended without 
faith^pag.t. 

' It is impoflibic for a man to be- 
lieve that whereof he hath no 
4»o»/c(i^e, pag. 10. 

Juflifying faith prefuppofeth 
the \mwleJge of God and Chrift, 
of the precepts and the prooiifes 
ofthcGofpelI,par. i.ca. j.pag. 

Knotvk^e concurrs to the being 
offaith,pag. 15. " 

^'J^^ knowledge of faith muft be 
diltina:, found^and ccrtaine,pag. 

K»(fi»ledge^ut £<x hkh, pag. 

Knowledge is the ground «f con- 



fidence,an4 fo put for confidence 
par.j[.ca,i0.^pag,ij^ 

Fjth includes the compIcate& 
prajaicali^«,tt,/ei^^„f ^^ 

eyiU.par,i.ca.4>ag.,^8o. 

The A,«^j^/e# of that which fs 
not revealed faith utterly repels 
P^g- '7. ^ ^ 

Faith is the caufe of more am- 
ple ^,»o»/e^^e.ibiu.& cap.io.paa. 

Wee l^no^ „^, ^j^.^ 

which we fhould. nothing as wic 
Ihouldapag, ,41. 

Words of ^«oa,/e/^edoQ toee^ 
ther by connotation linpjy aileSj. 
on pag. 1 3p. 

Appetite foil owes knowledie. 
par. 3, ea. i. pag. 214. * 

Thofe who know God bdi 
trufthimbefl,pag,i4j. ' 

Faith fseketh acquaintance 
vvithGod,ai.d the l^nowledee of 
hjs will in Jcfus Chriftjpar. Jcap 
10.pag.40y. 

t. 

Latff. 

The Law is the rule of obedi- 
ence^ according to which people 
in covenant ought to waike.par 
i.ca,8,pag,nj. 



SpirituaULife. 

No^irituall life in us before the 
infufion of grace, par. i.ca. a. pag. 

Life is primarily and properly 
by Chrift, fecondarily by faith, 
par. 2. ca. i.pag. 1^4. ipj. 

Faith is the life of our foulcs, 
the Word the Iffe of faith, pag. 
198, 

The 



An Alph4hetic4UTabte, 



Thclifcofgi-accis the bcgm- pag. 251,255,156,153,164,166 
ning of the life of glory, they are 267. 

one in fubftance, differ onely in Faith in the promifes of ever- 
<legrees,par.»,ca;4,pa. 249, 253. lafiinglife will moderate dcfires 
155,156, of the things of this life, will not 

diftruft the Lord for fupply of 
them,pag. 251,870, 271. 
EternaHlife. Faith in the promifes of /?/* 

earncftly defires and longs after 
God hath made promifc o<///e the futl poffeffion of it.- pag, 
evcrlafting to be conferred upon 256. 

them that believe, par. 2, ca: 4 Mcancs to flirre up faith in be- 
pa, 248, »49. , licving the promifes of life, pag. 

The promifc oilife is certaine, t6i, 162, 263^ &c. 
pag. 267. 

Chrift hath purchafed lifs cyer- living hy faith, 

lafting for us, pag. »4S>; t i u r r r • . 

Eternall life is given of grace for in What fcnfe we arc faid to 
Chrift embraced or retted upon Hveby faith, ^2r. ijC&,i j^z.i 9^. 
by faith, par. 1, cap. 6. pag. i??-&c. 
7 J. .Whatitisto//ve^/di/^, pag. 

When firft we belccve then are t^Y, i$)8. 
wee intituled to eternall lijej pa. To live by faith neeeffary, jjag. 
»50. ^9i> ^94- 

Life eternall is then begun in us Two things to be done that 
when wc believe, pag. a 49a »0. vve might /ia;e^j//«rV/&, pag. 298. 
168. ^^* 

Eternall life already begun in Man liyeth by faith alone , 
every believer wcake and ftrong: though it be not alone , par. 
par. i,c.t 10. pa. 146. .2. cap. i.pag. 196. & cap. 2.pag. 

Evcrlafting li/c is freely offe- 2,". 
red, but men are not left at liber. A Chriftian is to live hy faith 
ty whether they will receive and all the dayes of his life. pag. 223. 
fecke it or no, par. 2, cap. 4, pa. 224- *2?. 
^£j^ The life of faith IS molt excel- 

Itis- neeeffary wee (hould live lent and comfortable, p. 41 5. 
by faith touching the promifes of The neccflity and precioufncfTe 
life pa. 251, 251. of/af/fefecne will make a man 

Eternalllife is the onely true careful! to Kve by it, par. i.cap.i. 

%,pa.268.. P^l.-"?/ ^.^, ci.rv,.- 

Theads of faith concerning The/?/«which the faithful! /we 
the promifes of everlafiing life, hy faith in Chrift is cvcrlafting, 

pa. »5». »t ? J &«^' P^'- *• ^^' ^ • P5- *7 ^* 

Bytaithwefeeke evidence, get Meanesto ftirre up our felvcs 

affurance,and labout the pofief- to live by jaith, pag. 202. aoj, 
fion of life more and more. 204. &c 

H h how 



Aft Alphabetic dUTdhle, 



How we are co iive byjatth in unto it i fajtli is effettuall by love, 
particular touching the proinifes as a primary meane, whereby it 
ofpardonaiid forgivencflcj par,3, doth produce other efteds, mt 
ca".!, ofSandificat'on^ca.?, O'tc- as by it bcgmniag, - page 41, & 
verlafting life, ca 4, ofperfeve- 
rince,c. 5, i^ teraptations,c.^, in 
times of adverfity, ca, 7, Touch- 
ing the piomifes of earthly bief- 
fiogSjCa.BjThe commandements, 
ca.9. The workes of our calUng, 
ca:iOj Gods Ordmances, ca.ii, 
and threatnings, ca.\z. 



44345. 

How faith doth beget love, 
and the ads of charity are faid 
to be done of faith, pag. 4J. 
46. 

It inciteth to the worke, ani- 
mate th the aft, and enlarge th the 
.. _^ ^ . afteclionsto the feverall brandies 

The life of faith fhall end in joy oilove, pa.41346. 
and comfort, par. i, ca.i», pag. It is not pofTible for a man 



4x6,427. 

Heethat Uveth by faitb , fhall 
alfo die in faith, pa.4 17, 



truly to know and embrace the 
chiefeft good, and yet to with- 
hold aftettion from the love ofit^ 
pa,46. 

Perfcd faith breedeth pcrfeft 
love, and the leaft degree of 
faith, fome degree of/oT;Cjpa.5©, 
par i,ca,io,pa.i J J. 

Faith fires the heart with 
an indefatigable and unquench- 



LoveojGod. 

Goiis love itfelfe, and from 

love proceedeth every courfe hee 

pafleth upon us,as well that "of ad- _ ^ _.. j 

verfitie, asthcotherofprofperity, able /avc, that in comparifon of 

I par 2,ca.7,pa 315. obedience it contemneth the 

How his /fl-ue doth fpccially ap- whole world, par.ZjCapjp, pag. 

pearc incorreftingu$,ibid. j8®. 

. The love which God beareth Love or chiritje cannot ac- 

unta his pcaple is aneveilafting cept of, or obtaine the prorai 

/o^'e, parg?,ca.4,pa.27 2,. '' '" 



par. I, C3p.4, pag. 



Love. 



fes of mercy 

Being now in friendfh p with 
Chnft, our /oi/c may give us en- 
couragement and comfort to 
make ufe to our felves of that that 
is his, ibid. 

The aft oi love is done by 
ifliie or pafling from him that /o- 
veth to the thing that is loved. 



Faith gorerncth charity, par. i, 
ca.4,pag4i. 

Chanty is obedient . to faith, 
iibid. 

The aft of love hath no priori- ibid, 
ty to beliefe, but followes after To love is more then to believe, 
it, and is quickened by it, pag, becaufc it neceflarily includes be- 
4®. liefe,pa.42. 

Ltf-uefs a grace without the be- Love excells fsith, if wee 
ing of faith, though conjoyncd refpeft latitude of ufe , and 
- length 



An AfphiiheticaUTahU, 



of time or continuance : But till us to the pradife of h©imclle,par 
faith have finifhcd ouf ialvation, a, ca 4, pa. 16 r- 
/ovemuft yeeld to faith, pag.^z, 

43- 



M. 

Meate & 'Dnn\e. 

FRee ufe of the creatures is re- 
ftord by Chnft to the adop- 
ted fonnes of God, par. 2, ca. 4, 
pa.ijS.&cxgjp.ig.jog. 

Bread nourifiicth, when ic is fon for heavenly contemplation, 
Gods hand or meancs to conferre ibid, 
fticngth, but the blefling is not 
in the creature, it comes from 
above, par. i, cap. 8, pag j^Oj 

How to live by faith in the ufc 



Faith caufeth feirious and. at- 
tentive meditation upon the Word 
of God, that it may finkcdecpe, 
and abide firme in the heart, par. 
2,ca.9,pa.38N 

The good things of this life 
have great force to lift up the 
believing foule to commime with 
the Lord. par. 2, cap.S^pag.jdj. 

3^4- 

profperity is the fitteft fea 



Mee\ne^e. 

Faith wee^ewcf fe the heart wil- 
lingly to fubiTiit it felfe to the 



of Meate and 2)nn{e 3 p3g, 165, good pleafurc of G d, and pan 
1 64 &c. ently to bear.^ his corre^ion, par. 

i, ca.7, pa, 5 i 1,5 i 2. caj, pag. 
Meditation. »+?. 

By what confiderations faith 
To conGder whom wee tnift, perfwades to fnu\znejfe under 
and to meditate on hisfaithfull- Godshand,pa.32i,3i3>P4>32.5» 
nefle, mercy, and power, is a fpe- 316. 
ciall uieancs for the right plan- 
tation of faith J and a good Merit. 
encouragemeiu to live by faith, 

par. 2, cap. i, pag. 207, »o8. Pardon is not promifed for any 
pa. 1, cap. II, page.- jf4^ »«f«? ifl lis, par. 2, cap. t, pag. 

It is very needfull againe and The wife Merchant felleth all 

aoaine to conlidcr what excel- that hee hath, not that wee can 

lent thmgs are promifed , and thereby werir pardon, bur that fo 

raife the heart to an high pri- vvce may bee capable of pardon, 

ling and valuation of them, pag, patXi^. 



»5^ 



Sec Worsts. 
Miracttlomfaitb' 

Oi Miraculotafaithf^^t. i ,c3. i , 
Meditatimoi Gods fingular pa. 3. "' j 

poodncfle towards us, conftraines Faith Miraculoua, aftive-and 

5 Hhi paffive,! 



Meditation of the benefit of 
I pardon of finne a meanes to pre- 
j tetve defire of pardon, par.»,ca. i. 



lpa.215. 



An Alphabet icaSTahie, 



paflivcj ibid« 

faith Miraculom and ordinary, 
not diverfe graces, but the fame 
grace cxercifed about diverfc ob- 
ita^i pag.3,4- & Gap.4,pag 48, 
49. 

faith Miraculom is a gift of 
the Spiritj par. i, cap. 4, pag. 
47. and confidence in the ex- 
traordinarie promifes of God, 
ibid. 

N. 

Necejfttie. 

T Wokinds o£n€ceJ}itie, par. i, 
ca.i,pa.2. 

Negligence. 

Negligence in performing holy 
duties, an efFcft of unbeliefc, 
par.2j€a.i,pa.»oy. 

O. * 

Ohedieftce, 

THe Lord calls for willing , 
chearefull, univerfall, anfai- 

ned^conftantdieiiewcejpar.z^ea.g, 
pa.5^8. 

Vpright, unfained obedience 
IS imperfea. part, i, cap. 8, 
P^S- "i» par. 2, cap, 9^ pag. 

The ohedience of the faithfull 
isweakeandimperfe<a, but plea- 
ding and acceptable unto God, 
pa. 569, 570, 

The faithfull foule may find 
i^ felfe.more prone tafome-onc 
%ne then to another j and more 
d^Il to. fomc gx>od duties th«n 



other, ibid. & par.i, cap. 6, pag. 
78. 

The believer knowes himfclfe 
bound to the oiediencc of the 
Gofpell though he bee freed from 
the damnation of the law, par.i, 
ca.f, pa.278. 

The $hediencc which faith pro- 

duceth, is mtire in the branches 

of ohedience^ par. i, cap. ?, pag. 

■ 68 . Vniforme and conftant, pag. 

69,70. 

Faith in the promifes carieth a 
man forward in obedience to the 
way of the promifes, par,z,ca i, 
pa,ioi. 

According to our ftrength 
of faith, the lively fruits of 
holy obedience fhall bee found 
in us, part, i, cap. 11, pag. 
160. 

Aflliranee of forgirenefle can- 
not bee greater then care of 
ebedience, par. 2, cap. 9, pag. 

The better any man laboureth 
in faith, the more diligent hecis 
in the feivice of God, and workes 
ofraercie, par. 2, cap, lo. pag. 
35>6. 

Ordinary failing in the pra- 
6bce of holy duties ," and due 
ordering 0/ our aftedions, can- 
not be without a precedent cffeft 
offaith, which onely can firraely 
unite us untoChrift, par.i,ca,i i^ 
pa. 159- 

Partiall obedience, an effe^ 
of unbeliefe, par.*, cap, r, pag. 
20J. 

Chriftians are allowed to be- 
lieve, that God will enable 
them to walkein obedience y par. 
2, ca. 9, pa. 574. ForthisGod 
hath promifed in covenant; ibid, 
to this end' the Spirit- of grace 



An AlfhabeticMllTable, 



is given, ibid. The Saints have 
begged it in prayer . %T( ' and 
in alTuraace oi divine afCfiance 
have bound themfclves by cove- 
nant to keep the righteous iudge* 
tnents of the Lord.ibid. 

The aSs of faith touching oJe- 
dhnei requircd.par.z.cap. ^;pag. 
576.37 7.&C. 

JVJeancs to quicken our felvcs 
to the chcarefuU prafticc of thofe 
duties, whcreuBto wea find our 
felucs dull and Huggifh pag.383. 
384.&C 

Oriinances.See Word flc 
Sasraments. 



Chrifiian Parenn, 

THe Children of believing pa- 
rents by naturall generation 
are defiled with finne, but they 
are holy by covenant and free ac- 
ceptation, par, 2. cap, xi. pag, 
408 , 

The children o£ChriJfian Fa- 
rents they are within the Cove- 
nant for their^arewrt faith.par.i. 
ca. 10. pag, 140. 
The faith of the^<»re»/f doth ap- 
prehend the promife of the cove* 
nant for himfelfe and for his feed 
pag.408, 

It is an high and incomprehen- 
fible mercy,that God is plcafcd to 
bee theOod of the faithfull and 
their fee<i, pag: 409. 

Chrifiian parents arc greatly to 
retoyce in this,that God in tender 
companion is pleafed thus to ad- 
vance and honour thcna and their 
pofterity.ibid. 
Hee that would give his child 



unto God muft give himfeite fiift- 
pag.408. 

Gods promife to accept our 
children, calleth for prayer and 
fupplication on our part , that he 
would be pleafed to make good 
his mercifall and free promife. ib- 

This rich mercy of God fhould 
ftirre y^ parents to be careful! and 
diligent to bring vp their children 
in information and fcare of the 
Lord.pag. 4 1 o. 

Fa^tons, 

Vrktzmtd Paffuns which caufe 
unquietneflc in afFeftion are cor- 
redcd by faith, par.z. cap. 7. pag. 

J2Z. 

Pajfioxs are not fo bridled as not 
to ftirre and refift the worke of 
faith, but that they fliall not 
raigne.par.2 cap.9.pag.}77. 

Faith acknowledging Gods 
hand in affliAions teacheth pati. 
ently to beare his ccnrredion. par. 
a,c3p.7.pag. Jio.j 21.3 22.3 23 .& 
cap.io-pag394. 

Without confidence in God 
there can beno filent and quiet 
expectation of faluation in times 
of afflidion. par. 2. cap. 7. pag. 

The reward^of the patient fuf- 
fering of the Martyrs was both 
renownehere, and that fanemofV 
excellent weight of glory hereaf- 
ter .pag. 316.3*7. 

Peace. 

Peatt with God,and ftablc tran- 

quilitie or calmenefle of mind, 

Hhj a 



An Alfha&etkll T^ihle, 



a prerogative accompanying alTu- 
rance ©t faith in the promile par^ 
2.ca:£.pa/2 29, 

That peace «iay bee prefcrved , 
faith muft be renewed daily pag. 

Peace of Confcienccjioy in the 
HolyGhoftjand Sanftification of 
the Spirit here , are beginnings of 
glory hereafter.pag^ 25.156. As 
thefe increafe , the pofleffion of 
glory incrcafeth. ibid. & pag. 

Faith in the promife of perfe- 
verance neceffary to found and 
(uW peace par, a.ca.'j.pa, 279, 

Perjeverance. 

God hath made many promi. 
fes oiperjivtrance. par. z.ca. 5 ;pa . 
Z7i,a7i.&c 

Iris neceflary that the faith- 
full fhould ferioufly learne and 
thinlc ijipon thefe promifes^ that 
they mjght be fetled in believing 
thcir/)er/ix»crd«ce.pag: 277,278, 
279- 

Thc~godIyare allowed to be- 
lieve their ^fr/e-yera/zce. pag;, 280, 
x8i. 

The afts of faith concerning 
/>er/evertf«<;e.pag: 282,282, 284. 

&G. 

Faith giveth afTurancc ofperfe- 
o'ertfwcfjasitdoth of the pardon 
bf finne.pa.286« 

Affurance of not falling away 
can open no gap to licemioufnes 
orfccurityiafianc. pai.- 2. cap.y. 
pag: 27 8. 

Faith for a time may fall a. 
fleepc, but it will awake and re- 
new it indeavours with more 
life and vigour, pag; 278, 284. & 
cap.-6.pag;29 5.199. 



Meanes to ftirrc up- our fdves to 
bdievc the pcomifes ot perfeve- 
ra«£e.pag:2a7ja88. 

Trayzr, 

Pantings and breathings after 
the confolations of the Lord are 
undoubted tokens of the new 
birth par. i.cap,- 1 2.pag^ 1 6p. 

Prayer is an aft of the Spirit, 
and the Spirit is obtained by 
prayer par: i .cap. z.pag; 8 . 

Faith is the mother of Prayer 
andpmj/er ameans of the increafe 
oftaich, pag.' 15, 

Prayer is nothing elfe but the 
ftreame or river ot faith, par. 1. 
ca.S.pa: 105, 

Faith comer to Chrift as an 
humble penitent petitioner par. i, 
ca. io.pa:i36. 

Faith obtaineth as a poorc pe- 
titioner what the Lord promifeth 
in fpeciall favour, par- 2.ca. 3, pa. 
247. 

Faith fiirreth up topray with- 
out diftraftfull, fruitlefle, excef- 
five care. par. z, cap. 8. pag. 
358» 

What we are taught to begge 
mprayer^thzt we are allowed to 
believe we fhall obtaine of free 
grace. par:2.ca.3,.p3g.25p,& cap. 
5. pa.- 2-8.1. 

The firmer ourfaitb,the better 
fucceflc doe we find in prayer, par. 
l.ca:io,pa:i49. 

The wicked ctie and call in 
fearebut nQtinfaith,par.-i. ca.4, 
pa:53. 

One branch of living by faith 

is prayer .par.a.ca. i.pa.ao i . And 

Prayer is a meanes to ftirreup to 

live by faith. pa; zo8j2©9. 

What is to hec prayed for, that 

wee^ 



An AlfhaheticallTahle, 



wc may live by faith. ibid. 

Faith feeking pardon of finne 
ftirres up to prayer for pardon 
through the mediation of Chnil 
par!i.ca;».pa:2i7.ij J 



forth btfore the Lord, par: a. ca; 
io,pa;39^,j^9. 

In afflidrions faith will neither 
fret or murmurc , nor yet grow 
Tecure , but ftiin s up to feeke unto 



Thcpromifes of pardon to him God by prefer both for the benefit 
that^r««j'e//b.pa.2i7.ii8. and fruit of rcflraint , and for the 

He may^jiay in fdith that wants comfort of freedome and delivc- 



aflurance of pardon ibid, 

Itislawfullin fomc regard to 
crave pardon, when it is already 
granted, and believed fo to bee 
parji.ca 8,pa:i0 2. 

Confidence and prayer God 
hatli ioyned together pa: loj. 

We mufl pray both for faith 
that we may believe pardon^ and 
the fight of our faith, that wee 
may know we believe it. par:*, 

ca.-j pa:23S.i3^. 

By faith the children of God, 



rancc.par. a. ca: 7. pa; 328, 32^. 

Faith prayeth as earneflly for 
the fandification of profpeiity, 
and Gods ble fling upon the 
meaneSjasfor the meancs them- 
fclvesifthey were wanting, par 
4.ca.8.pa: 368,5 64. 

Faith Itirreth up earneft , con« 
ftant and hearty prayer to bee 
taught in the Law. parj z, ca. 9, 
pa:38i. 

It quickencth the moft skil- 



(teing in God whatfoevcr they full workman to ftrivc with God 
heed or de(ire,will never cieafe to in^rfij/€r,that the work he fctteth 



feeke reliefe by pray er.^^i'.t, ca;4 
pa:£^e. 

We muft^r4yinflantly for fan* 
ftifying grace, par; *. ca*. 3. pag> 



upon may fucceed well and prot 
per.par;2.ca:io.pa:3jo. 

The faithfull liavc promifcd 
thcmfelves hcipe in diftrcfle, and 



239. Which is a meancs to qnic- confidently begged aid, bccaufe 
ken us to believe the promife of they truftedinthcLord.pana.ca, 



Sand ification. pa; 247 

Faith in the promife ofperfe- 
verancc caufeth to pr<^ inftantly 
that God would uphold us, and 
make us fee that he will uphold 
us. par ; 2. cap; 5. pag. 283. 289 

Faith as an humble petitioner 
recciveth the promife of life, and 
gives afTurance of what is recei- 
ved as it prayeth j^ax'.i. ca: 4, pag 

in temptation we muft pray 

par. a. cap: 5 . pag: 30 j , 306. 

310. 

. Faith wrappeth all gricfcs ^nd 

cares togcthftjSnd powveth them 



7.pa^Ji5*5*0' 

FreJUmpthn. 

It is not prefumption t^ut true o- 
bediencc to telievc whatfoevcr 
God hath promifed. par: ».ca:3. 
pag,2j8.ca:x.pag:a3 1.t34. & ca. 
6.293. 

Pride. 

Pride the daughter of corrupti- 
on,not of filiall confidencc.par: i. 
cap.8.pa;iia. 



Hh4 



Promije 



ts\ 



An JlfhahticaU TAbU, 



Fromifes^ The paaSifc of the godly, who 

have lived by faith in time of 

"Bypremifes underfta«d al thofc troublc,is both a token of our pri- 
dedarations of Gods will,whci:e- viledge,and a patterne of our duty. 
inlwfignifiesiathcGofpcllwhat cap:7.pa.5 18. 
good he willfrccly bcftow.par.a. Whenfocverwc find thatany of 
cap.»pa:i09. Gods people have prayed for any 

Fromifes fome fpeciall and fin- good thing & have been heard, if 
gular, others generall and com> k were not by fpeciall pre rojati e 
monpar.-i.cap.i.pa: 3. Dired & peculiar to them,wc may take it as 



by confe<iuent. par; a. cap: i. pa; 
i^^,xoo. 

The generall and common pro- 
mifes concerning life andfalvati- 
on,more excellent then the fpeci- 
all and fingular promi/es conccr- 



a^rowyc teus.par.t.ca, i.pa:,!^^ 
As tor extraordinary favours or 
deliverances granted unto fome 
perfons by fpeciall priviledge, we 
cannotproMf/e our felves the fame 
in particular from their example : 
ning working of miracles. pa;4. but as fuch peculiar mercies imply 
Vromifcs aie either fpirituall or a common ground or reafon,tncy 
temporall.par: X. cap. i^pa: 20^ are unto us arguments of cofortSc 
Cojicerningthis life or the life to encouragement«par z ca; i.p'xeo* 
come.ibid. The word oi promt fe doth not 

Of things fimply ncceflary to only containeti;uth,but offer good 
falvation, or of things good in untous.par:i.cap:io,pa;i37* 
themfclves, but nor alwaies good To helpe our weaknes the Lord 
for us.par; i.ca; 5. pa: 6 1, 6*, 63. goeth over one & the fame thing 
par:*.ca;i,pa:209,2io. againc & againe.par: i.c 8.p: 130 

What favour God hath fhewcd Thcprowii/ef are not only made 
vnto any of his children according to them that believe alread/e, but 
to proraife &covenant of grace,the are freely c ffcred as grounds and 
fame may all that be in covenant foundations that wee might be- 
with him exped & lookc for.par. Iieve.p3r;r,ca:z.p:ziij 119, 231. 
2.ca:i.pa:i99j:oo.ca;7.pa: jjj. Prowi/ei both temporall & fpiri- 
All the faithfull as faithfully be tuall are received by faith^as they 
partners in the fame priviledgcs arc promifed of God either with 
and promifes J and live by the or without limitation parxz.c.i. | 
famefaith.par.'i.caij.paixjj, pacxio. 

Wh^t promifes foever concer- Alltheftrflwr/ef of God be furc 
ninglife and happines were made in themfeivcSjCertaine to the Be- 
to the Apoftles, the fame were licver.par i.ca. j.pa:^!. 
made to ail believers and confir- . The ferious meditation of Gods 
med & fcaled unto them after the frcCjgratious and faithfull prowii- 
fame manner. pa.».ca:4.pa; 257. ycf reiterated againc and againe,is 
Whatone believed upon com. availeable to ftrcngthen faith 
I mon i&ordinary grounds, that is parti.eau i.pa;i6i. 
tfie priviledge of all believers. When we wit the fence of Gpds 
which they are allowed to receive tove,w€ miaft believe his word & 
cap5^a.x8|i f^^' 



An Aiphabeticali Table, 



pvmife, par.ij ca.2, pa.aj UH ^« 
The promtfes ofGod concerning 
Juftification and Sandification arc 
fo linked together, thatwhofoe- 
vcr believes not both, cannot be- 
lieve the one,pai-.i,c.j,p.240,24X 
Thepro'Mi/eTofQodrecei'/ed by 
faith are the lichesof a Chriftian 
t© fupply his waniS3& his cattle of 
defence in lisne of danger j par 2, 
ca.7,pa-3»7,3i8. 

If we cleave not to the pr»mi/ef 
of God concerning temporall 
thin^'SjVve fhall adhere to the/>ra- 
mi/es of life with leffe aflurance, 
par.2,ca.8,pa.3Jia5 52. 

Frog>erity, 

To hope for blefled and good 
fiicceffe in an evill courfe is pal- 
pable and grofle Idolatry, par.i, 
ca.8,pa.3 5d. , r a 

God is fpccially to be leryed 
in the daies o^profperity, pa 3 5 9. 

Frofperity is pleafing, but dan- 
gerous i whichmakcS the waking 
believer jealous of hiiKfeUe, and 
watchfull over his heaitjpag, 3 6 1 . 

Faith feafoneth profperity.par. 
i,ca.iOjpa. ijjaP^i'^'^'^'P'^^i'- 
In/jroJ'erfO/faith keeps the heart 
in an holy temper and difpoCtion, 
^li!{;.in humility & mceknes,p.} j9 

The more we profper,the more 
earncft be the prayers of faith, pa. 

See TempQtaUBkJfmgs, 
Troteftion. 

The Lord ft.mds betwixt his 
childich and all dangers that are 
intended againft them,pa.»,ca.6, 
pag. 29?* ■■ ■■ 

It is the promife of oUr Sayi" 



our, that hell gates (hall not prc- 
vailc againft his faithfull people, 
pa.2>7.&ca.7,pag.3ij. 

Turpofes. 

Why naany ^ood purpo/ei never 
come to performanccj par.2,ca.3, 
pa,24 1^242. 

Redemption. 

The workc of redemption re- 
maines proper to Chrift : but the 
benefit of his death is communis 
cated to every member of bis my- 
ftieall body,par.ijCa.7,pa.8 I. 

Rtdeaiption by Chnft is both 
pretious and plentifuil, par. i.ca. 
ii,pa.i52. 

Remijft&n. 

God of his rich grace and mercy 
in Jefus Chrift hath made offer 
of free and full forgivcnefle of fin 
to every burdened, penitent, and 
thirft e foule, par.2, C3.2, pag. 

Remijfton of fins in and through 
Jefus Chrift is fpecially to be prea- 
ched. This the faith of all the 
Saints hath in fpeciaU manner rc- 
fpcded, craved, embraced, piM^ 
ca.6,pa.7 I. 

ForgiA'cneffe is both of guilt & 
punifhment, p.ir. i, ca. 8, pag 
102. 

Remifton of fins dothpreluppole 
the meicy of God, pa. 7 1 . 

The promife oiremijfttn is made 
of free ^nd undeferycd ni:rcy 
through Chiitt, par.z,cnp.», pa 

»io,?»i. , 

As fooneas ever amantccies 

jfin as a burden, h(H5 is called, in- 
vited, GotiMnandcd to cotntwnto* 
Chdu* 



AnAi^aheticail Tahle, 



Chiift to receive mercy and f©i- finnes is to be prayed £or. pag. 

givencfle, pag.231, »3 23 234. & 102, 

par.i.ca;ii.pa.-i5o.i£)i. What is to be done in feeking 

The promife o^nmijpon of fins forgiveneffe par; z. ta.-'z: pa.-ai 5^ 

is conditional!, andbccomes not 216.217. 



abfolucc until! the condition be 
fulfilled, either a^uallyjOr in de- 
fire and prepaia.tionof mindjpar. 
i.ca;7.pa;if6. 



Why men negleft to feckc the 
pardon ot their fin.-pag' z 1 f , 

The afts of fauh concernina 
the promife of pardon, pao.- 21 ? 
We cannot hope to have our »i4,Jif. 
fins forgiven if wee bee not made Faith doth obtainejteceive and 
one With Chrift by faith; par; i.e. afliire of pardon in particular, pa, 
7,pa/8i, 218. 

Mercy and forgiyenefle is free- Faith afiureth of pardon by a 
lypromifed that we might be- double acl pag.219. 
lieye, and vouchfafed to him that Afliuance of pardon is not an 
doth believe.par;2^ca;a,pa; zii. aft of faith iaftifying, asit iuftifi- 
119.131. cth,but an aft of faith following 

The promife of forgivenefle is juftification, pag;tt8.2i9. 
received by faith alone.par. 2 ca;2 See Certainty of SalvatUn. 

pag;sii|iti2., , Hee that is afiiired of pardon. 

The promifes of mercy in doth both believe and knoweth 
Chriftjbeing the higheflandmoft that he belie vcth.pag; 21^. 
fpiriiualljit is the hardeft point of How we may clitnbc to this af- 
fervice in the Chriftian warfare furanceingoodorderpag:2 20. 
firmely to believe thenxpar; I. ca.' Prerogatives that accompany 



i.pa;4,& ca;7.pa; S3. 

It is neccfl'ary that we embrace 



this afTurancc.pag; a 20,2i I. 
Free remijftm and afTuratice oi 



the pLomife of forgiveneffe by a Gods love cannot puffe Up, but 
lively faith* par; i.ca; 2. pa: zi», doth abafe the believer in him 



That there is forgiveneffe with 
G cd, or that finne is pardonable. 



fclfe.pa; 2ij 

Though faith certifie that our 

J _.. j,„. „^^w, fins be paidoned,yet many good 

cannot be knowne by the light of Chriftians live long in fearc and 

nature,mufl be difcerned by faith. doubt.-pag;2 27, 

pa:ii 3,214. The caufes hereof and the rc- 

It is eaficr to fay fo much mcdics.pag.227,iz8,2»9 &c; 
whileitmenfleepein Cmu^hcn to Aswe believe to luftification, 
believe it when the confcience is fo we muft continue in believing 
awakenedibid. . for the aftuall pardon of our dai- 

We are cqmmaaded.to askc the ly trefpafles pa ; li 2. 2I3 ,224. 
pardon and forgiveneffe of our WemuftftiU looke to Chrift 
finnes, and have a promife to bee for forgiveneffe; and faith lookes 
I heard in that which we defircpar. unto him as a pctitioneirjpar; i .c. 8 
' ijca.8,pa;ipi, |)a:i04, 

Iq what fence forgiveneffe^ of Wee muft pray daily that wee 



I 



J 



An AC^habeticail 'tahle. 



Jaaye 



greatfr ^afiurance wcion to any time^peifon^c^uaUty 
pi- juiinbe'r of oftences. par. I. cap 
li.p.i;!7d pai\'2. car a. pag: ziS, 
229. 



Reverence. 
Mercy covering fin doth 6egct 



my 

ibid. ^ .^ ..:.;: ,j • 

We fin daily and arc t'orcceiyc 
aduall pardon from Ggd contf- 
nually.ibid, VVc begg the conti- 
nuance of his grace, that his mcr- 
eifull pardon may be a gift with- 
out repentance, pa: I ©5. That 

we may more fully and really pef- reveumt\ the more sflurafice of 

fefle what we doe in part inioy. falvation in a mans.foulej the 

ibid. morcfearc and trsmbling in a 

And that we might be fet in mans courfe. par; a. cap{ 5. pag: 

full and reall poffeflion of ab(o- ^Z^* 

lute intirc acquittance when the Faith in the tbrcatnings brings 

time of refreihing {hall come pa, forth awefullneffe,j'eT^erc«te, and 
106. ' feare.par.a,cap;i2.pa;4J3, 

He that is every day bufied to 

fue out his pardon cannot bfit^bc Riches. 

carefull not ro run into fin.par;i, 

ca:2.pa:2a6j2Z7. Thcworldmuftbe csfl out of 

Diredions to the weake,to ftir the afleaions.^pairj i .cap: 1 1 . pa. 

up themfclves to believe the pro- *5^' ' .' -^ — - 

mife of fergivcnefle, when they Cerift hath never due efteeme 

want the comfort ofit. pa: a. 3, with uSjUnlclTe for his fake wee 

234.&C. 



Repentance. 

Faith and rffe»f<i»cc be infepa- 
rable companions par. i.ca: 8, pa: 
100. 



withdraw ©ur hearts from all thi 
mJbei-jdehghtSjhonourSjand pro. 
fits of the world.pag. 157. 

Not the poffeflion of earthly 
things and delight in thetn, but 
that poflellion and delight in 
them which withholds us from 



Repentance is ncct{[.xvy to the refigrting our felves vnto Chrift 
pardon of fin,as a condition with- is forbidden pa: i jf 8 par.i.ca: ii. 
j out which it cannot be obtaiiied^ pa;4oi^. 
not as a caufc why it is given par. By faith a man commcth freely 
l.cap;iopa:ig6. to renounce his title and interift 

Pardon of finne is promifcd to intheworld,andtopartwithany 
them only that confeflc and for- thing that might hindct mercy, 
fake their iniquity.par.i*ca;». pa. par z c;2.pa-2i5. ■' 
119. We (hall eafily bee broiiglit to 

RemiflioH of fin is covenan- renounce the World for Chnft, if 
ted, fealed,3nd confirmed by oath we attentively eonfidcr what ex- 
to them that repent and believe, ccllent & incomparable ^'treafurej 
pa.i ca; i.i i.pa: i f 1,1 f 2. ofioy,delight and comfort.are to 

The promil'e of pardon is made be foundin Jcfiis Chrift,ovcr and 
to repentant finncrs without limi- above all the woifld can prbmifi 
- . or 






An Alphsheticall Table, 



orafFoord.par.i.cap.ii.pag, 157. thing fignified.pag. 40s. 
par.».cap.z.pag.iz6*& ca.4. pag. It is ncccffary to live by faith 
251, xjo, zju & cap. 9. pag. iH the ufe of Gods ordinances pag 

As the woild comes in upon us Faith is diligent in the ufe of 
it muft be our care to exercife our Gods ordinancex,but ktioweth to 
felres in all good workes, and diftinguifli betwixt the ordinan- 
looke that our dcfire of grace doe ccs in and by which grace is ob- 
growandincrcatc.par. i.cap«ii. tainedjand the author and giver 
pag.idi. oHt.par:z.ca.3.pa:242. & ca.ii. 

^fci^efwcllufedbe inftrunscnts pa:4o5. 
of doing good. pag. 1 56, How to live by faith in the uf« 

of Gods ordmances.par .2«ca: 1 1. 
pa.403,404,405. &c. 
S. 

Certaintk of Salvation. 
Sacraments. 

- How a true beliet^er may bee 

T'Hc Word and Sacraments arc certaine and infallibly afl'ured of 
^ to Chriftians as a cleare glafl'c the remiffion of his fins and ctcr- 
in which wc behold the glory of nalIy2t/tfa«'o».par:i.ca;8. pa: 90, 
God in Chrift.par. 2. cap. II. pag 91. 

404, , Bclicfe in Chrift for remiffion 

The Sacraments be truly called is fbronger and more neceflary 

a vifible word.pig, 40 x. then affurancc ef pardon and for- 

Menareadmittsdtothe Sacra- giveneflc.pa:96. 
wew/f bymen, and for profefiion By what fruits faith may dif- 
of faith, when many times they covet it leife to be flrong in fomc 
have none indeed par. I. ca.4. pag. refpeds, where there is fmall af- 
f I' furance of pardon, par. i. cap. 10. 

Chriftians are allowed to live pa.14;. 

byfaithjthat by the fincere and There is a particular word or 
confcionableuteofthc Word and that which is equivalent tcftify- 
Sacramtnts they fhall be coafir- ing thus much,that my particular 
med in fa]th,and madcvtife vnto pcrfon beholding the Sonne, and 
falvation.par.i, cap. ii.pag. 40Z believing on him , ftjall have 
4«=3. cternall life. par. i. cap. 8. pag. 

Thi Sacrament svvttc. purpofely 57. 

ordained to helps and confirmc This afTurancC is not fuch as 
our weakc faith par.i. ca.z.pag. that whereby a man is made ab- 
, 13.& ca.11.pag-163.par 2.ca.ii. folutelyout of all doubt, pa: pz. 
pag.402, par:2.ca.4.pa.i5 7. 

There be many promifes to The particular cerMW/y of re- 
aflure the worthy receiver,that re- miffionoffinnesisnot cqaallin 
ceiving the outward fignes as hee certainty andfirmenefle of alRnt 
oaghtjhe ihali be partaker of the to the afTurance which wee hauc 

about 



An Al^hahficaliTahlff, 



J bout the common obje^ of faith 

pa. 9 1,93- 

When faith is growne up and 
hath outwreftled temptations jVfC 
arc fubjea by ncglefting meanes, 
laying downc our watch. Sec. to 
loofc for a time this comfertablc 
perfwafionjpa.pj, 

Affurance had by extraordina- 
ry revelation, not altogether feee 
from f eares and doubts, pa. i 09. 

Infallible afliirance of falva, 
tion is to be iiiiiti:gated for, and 
may be obtained, pa. 97. 

The falvation of a believer is as 
infalhblein it felfc, and in event, 
as is the Word of God : but al- 
waics it is not fo in his apprehen* 
(ion and feeling, pa, 1 08,109. 

Ignorance of the exad multi- 
tude and greatncfle of our offences 
is no barrc or hinderance to the 
certaintie of falvation, pa log. 

Immediate & perf eS affurance 
might peradventure by the cor- 
ruption of our nature be abufed 
to fecurity, pa.i 11. 

Full affurance not to be difaU 
lowed becaufe of the evill that 
might enfue to us thereby abufing 
thefamc^pa.iii. 

The affurance which a godly 
man hath of his fal^^ation is ever 
joyned with afaithfull andcon- 
fcionable care to walke uprightly, 
par. I, ca.y, pa. 6$, & ca.8, pa. 
no. 

True affurance breeds increafe 
of refolution and care to pleafe 
God, dcteftationoffinne,unfai- 
ncd abafcmentjcontmuall watch- 
fulncffc, ardent love, and joy un- 
fpeakable, pa.i 2 1 ,1 a t* 
^ The godly mans affurance of 
6ods favour w 11 Hand well with 
reverence of his Mijeftie , and 



fcare of temporall afflidions,&c, 
par.*, ca.i2,pa.4i4. 

What infirmities may ftand 
with affurance of falvation, par. 
i,ca.8,pa.iij,ii5. 

What Hnnes hinder affurance, 
pa.iiSjii. 



Sa^llifieafion. 

What San5li;f cation is, par. 1, 

ca.3,pa.ijr. 

Vnder what tcarmes it is promi- 
fed in Scripture, pa. 1 ? 7,738. 

He that feeth himfelfe mifera- 
ble by finne, though hee can fee 
no grace m his foule, is called to 
come unto Chrift to receive from 
him the grace o( SanSiijieation as 
well as remiffion, par.i,ca a, pa. 
aja. & cap.3, pa.ajS, & c3p.6. 

p3.JOZ,^03. 

Chriftians are allowed to be- 
lieve the promifcs of SanSlifiea- 
tion, par.ijCa.jjpa.ajS. 

It is necefliry to beleevc thefe 
promifes,par, i,ca.5jpa.fi2,par.2, 
ca.j pa. 13 9,240, 14 1. 

Thefe promifes bee of great 
price, snd faith fwectly fee- 
deth upon them, pir.i, ca.$, pa 

The beliefe of thefe promifes is 
fiiiringand operativejibid. 

Beliefe that God wil mabie the 
faithfuU to every duty he doth re- 
quire, is an exceeding furtherance 
unto godlineffcjibid. pnr.2, ca,3, 
pag.240. 

The afts of faith concerning 
the promifes of S"<J»5i^ca"'o»,par. 
a,ca.5,pa.24i,x4i,&c. 

Meanes to qiucken taitn m be-- 

lie ving that God will fanSlifie,\ 

when wee fee nothing but thraU] 

dome 



An AlfthabeticAU Table, 



dome and fin prevailing. pag. 1^5, and power, par. z,cap. io,^a..ig6^ 

■i.A6 Rrr^ aOT. 



246,&C. 

Why God doth not jseifedly 
faniiifie us at ©nce,but by degrees, 
pag. 24 y. 



Scripture, 



397 

Chrift hath never duceftecme 
with uSjUnlefl^ for his fake we dc- 
nie our felvcs : that in all thincrs 
wee might bee conformable unto 
his will and pleafiue, par. i jCa i j , 
pa. 157. 

Sinne. 



Things are contained in Scrip- 
ture expreflely,or by eonfequence. 

par. i,ca.8,pa.97. Sf««e is properly all that wee 

What the i'mp^wrw fay to all have of our owne, par.i,ca n^pa, 
men, they fay to every man, what 1 5 6. 

to penitents, to every penitent. The caufe of all miferie and 
what to believers, to every belie- forrow is ^h»c, par. 2, ca. 7, pag. 
vcr, pa 97,98. 311. 

Every part of divine infpircd The defertcfy/w is f arte greater 
truth is worthy of all beliefe and then any thing we (uftcr ; which 
reverence, par.ljCa. 5. pa.59. fhould pcrfwade to nieekenefle in 

Whacfoever js delivered in ourfuftcrings, pag 5 »*. 
i'crfprwre is to be believed, but fo An iinnaocierate aggravation 
fane forth only as it is intended of fmne and aontinaali thought 
j to bee held for true by the Holy ot unwoithineffe makes m.niy 
Ghoil the author of the Scripture, doubt of Gods mercy, par.2,ca 2. 
pa 59,60, pag. Z27. 

Divine revebtions onely be of There is a difFerence of fimies : 
certaine and-infallible truth, pag pag. 2i8,iJ9» 
59. Such as walke in the light and 

W.hatfoever wee conceive of hr.ve fellowfliip wich God, are 
God befides his word it is imagi- fimerSi par i,ca. §,pa, i i 5. 
nation, prefumption, opinion,but 

I faith it is not, par, i^ ca. 4, pag. 
53. 



Selfe-denialt. 
For the right plantation of faith 



Who are the fervants ofJlmCf ! 
pa. ii6. 

Grievous and notoiious );»«crf 
muft detctt thcr yzwwe,but not def- 
paire of Gods mercy, par.i, ca.2, 
pa.22'?,2j4,par.i,ca.ii pa. 176. 
Sinnes of fimple i^^norance , 
it IS needfull to denie our felyes, meere frailty and imavoideable 
our defiresjiufts and ft:dions j to infirmitie doe not flop the lively 
make over all intereft in our lives worke of faith in receiving the 
or whatfoever is deare unto promifesof mercy, par. i,ca.'8,pa, 
us, &c. par.ijcap.i i,pag.i5 5, '^^* 

156. i'wwcf ofinconfideration, for- 

Faith caufeth felfe-deniall-rx re- getfulneflc, and paflion whercun- 
fpedt of Judgement, wifedome, to there is not advifed confent, \ 



may 



An Afphahttca/l Table^ 



may be in the godly without any 
notable defect of faith, png, 117, 
118. 

To Jim offiailty Godisplcj' 
fed to grant a pardon of cotufe, 
par.8,ca.:,pag.zj9. & par.i^ca 8, 
pag. 117. 

Foule and enormous crimes 
wafting confcience ufitill they bee 
repented of, hinder afTiirance and 
adtiMll claime to the promifes of 
etcmall life, pjg 11 8,1 if. 

What the- godly loofe if they 
fall into foule and enormous ^«f, 
ibid. 

If a man have oft fallen info 
grofle and notorious finr hec is 
not to defp ire, but fenoufly to 
confeffe and forfake his finne 
that he may obtaine mercy, par.r, 
I ca ir, pag 176, par.i, ca.», pag. 

2*9' 

A foule offence after grace re- 
ceived is not unpardonable, pag, 

2Z5>,7.JO 

The abfolutc raigne of fime 
will not ft.ind with the ftate of 
grace, par. i, cap. 8, pag. Ii9> 
110. 

Sobriefy. 

Sobriety wherein it flandcth, 
par.?,ca.8,p.ig ^6^, 

Faith worketh the heart to 
Yobriety znd modcration,ibid. 

Faith teacheth to moderate 
cares, confine defires of earthly 
things, and commit ourfelvesto 
God for fuccefTc of our work, par. 
i,caio,pa.393,594' 

Sorrow. 

Except wc feclc the taitnefTe of 
(innc wee cannot well relifhthe 



fwectneffe of Chriits death, par. 
I, ca. 1 1, pag. 161, 

All have aot like meafurc of 
/(>rro»» for finne, pa.i,ca.ia,pa. 
17 t. 

Not an extraordinary meafure 
of /orroTcp, hat forrow to fclfe dcni- 
all is required, par.2, ca.z, pag. 
Z18. 

It is good to grieve bccaufe we 
can grieve no more for finne : but 
to doubt of mercy bccaufe wee 
have felt no greater horrour, is 
great weakencffe, par. 1, ca. iz^ 
pig 171. 

The threatnings mingled with 
faith c2u(tforroT!vfull melting and 
relenting of heart for finne com- 
mitted, par.i, c3.i2,pa.4Z4,4i5, 

In true farroiv and broken hear- 
tcdnefFe faith and other graces 
may bee infolded, pai I,ca.j,p3g. 
iS. 

The fpirits wafted with violent 
and coannuallyorroa? cannot pre- 
fently recover their former liveli- 
neflcand ability, par.jjca.6,pag. 
ill. 



Spirit. 

The Spirit of God is the prin. 
cipall worker of faith, par. i,ca,2. 
pag 8. 

The Word cannot work with- 
out the Spirit, and ordinarily the 
Spirit will not workc without tl«: 
Word, pa, I J. 

How we are faid torcccive the 
Spirit by faith, and yet faith is the 
Worke of the Spirit ^ par. i, ca.2, 
pag,8,par.a,ca4,p3,g.2jj. 

How the Spfrit is obtained by 
prayer, and yet prayer is an atfl 
ofthe5'//riA, par. I, cap. z, pag. 
8. 

The 



An AlfhaheticnUTabU^ 



The spirit doth not equally in- 
cite all men to believe, but 
whom he will,and joyne his effi- 
cacie to the word in whom hec 
will, pa. 9, 1 4. 

The Spirit is received by faith 
a« the carneft of our heavenly in- 
heritance, par.a, C3.4, pa. 253, 

TheSpirit is lent into our hearts 
to dwell andremaine with us for 
ever, pai'.z,ca.5jpa.i7 $, 

It ftands us upon to nourifh the 
motions of Gods Spirit y and by 
fervent prayer to intreate the con- 
tinuance of his pr.cfence,par. i , ca; 
1 1, pa, 164. 

The Lord divcrfly gives evi- 
dence of his Sprri/f prefence in us, 
par.TjCa.12, pa. 175. 

The witneffe of the Spirit is no 
vocallteftimonie which certifyeth 
us againft doubts and feares, pa. 
179. 

Lords Sttpper. 

There are many promifes made 
in the Word to affure the worthy 
receiver, that receiving the out- 
ward fignes in the Lords Supper, he 
{hall bee partaker of the thing 
fignified, par. a, ca. 11, pa. 401, 
402. 

It is not the having of faith 
but the new exercife of faith 
which makes us worthy re- 
ceivers of the Lords Supper 3 pag . 
4 1 5. 

The afts of faith in receiving 
the Lords Supper ^ pa, 41 6, 417, 
&c. 

Meancs co ftirre up our felves 
to receive the Lords Supper in 
faith, pa.4Jio,4ii, 



T. 

SpirituaUTafic. 

Faith is the SpirituaU Tafi of 
the loulc, par. i, ca 5, pa 37,8: ca. 
4, pa. 40. Set Faith. 

Faith altereththe taj^ of every 
appetite, par. a, cap. 9, pag. 
378. 

When wee have foundly and 
truely tafied how good and gra- 
tious the Lord is. we cannot but 
love and alFeft him intirely^par. i, 
ca.4,pa.47. 

Faith cannot favour earthly 
bieflings, unleffe it tafi Gods love 
and feed upon his goodnefle in 
them, par.i, cap. 8, pag.j6i, 
364. 

SpirituaU Tafi is diftempcred 
with Temptations froai without, 
and fpirituall difcafes from with- 
in, par. i,ca. jjpa. 3 8. 

Temptations. 

Chriftians muft looke to be af- 
failed by Sathan wi:h inwari^ 
fuggeftions and outward tempta- 
tions , par.i,ca,«,pa.250. 

Sathan ufeth all meancs to 
weaken faith, yea quite to fub- 
vert and overthrow it, par.i,cap. 
II, pag. 1 J 8. & cap. iz, pag. 

Faith IS incontinuall combate 
Wn\i temptations arifing from na- 
ture, ignorance, infidelity, diffi- 
dence, the wifedome of the flefh, 
&c. par.i,ca.ro,pa«i42. 

The methods of Satan and his 
ends in tempting are divers, par.z, 
ca,6, pa.ap^jitjSjZ^jj, 

What 



An A^hAketkattTMf, 



What tettiptations (torn Satan, tan, and made many piomifes of 
the World and theflefli wee are ilrength and vi^ory, pag. 25 Oj 
fubjeft unto in afflidions, par. z, 29 1, 

ca^, pa.? 1 7. In the ftate of terxptatioH the 

In gicat afflidions, pa, ggtJ. gcdly are allowed to bthevethe 
The ftrongcrt faich is fiibjeft promifesof vidory, pa.i$ 1^292 
to ftrong temj-tationfip^r. i,ca 11,29;. 

p. 150. and fometimes the Ih-cng ItisneceffaryaChriflianfhould 
have fallen when the weake have live by faith in temptation, pac. 
ftocd couragioiifly, par.i,ca.j2, i95,?94,&c. 
pag 1 80. The afts of faith in rclpeifl: of 

What finncs God doth ufu- ^cwpf^/'/ow, pa 255^,296j&c. 
ally chaflen in his children by Faith difcovers all the plots, 
temptation, pag. 17 1, 175, 176, fortifieththe foule againft all in- 
178, 180, vafionsand afiaults of Satan, pa. 

How God confines and limits 2943'j6,i98,299, 
Satan in tempting , and dirc^s If Satan aflault with blafphe- 
the temptation to fuch an end as mous temptations, wee are not to 
he never intended,par,8,ca.5jpag. reafonwith him, but to make our 
»95,Z96, complaint unto the Lord, pag. 

Faith overcommeth the world, *9^3i97,so$,^o6,ioj, 
that is, whatfoever within us or Solitary and pcnfi/e mufing 
without us would draw us from on the temptatiom of Satan, gi»es 
theLawof God,par. i,ca.ic,pa. him the more liberty to tcmptj^z. 
I.jz,i3 5,par.2, ca9,pa.376. a9«,»s'^,.307. 

The weakcft faith is flrong When Satans temptations arc 
through the power of Chiitt to i^oft fiery, we maft then be moft 
vanquifh Satan, and overcome the diligent in the praftife ofgodli- 
world, par.i,ca. io,pag.i46,&c. neflcj and the labours of our ho- 
&ca.i2,pa.i8o, nefl; calhng, pa. 297, 258,^08, 

God in his wife providence gi- 309,3 to. 
veth the greateft meafure of faith We mull not think this courfe 
to them, who are to undergoe the vaine and friiitlefle, bccaufe wee 
greateft combates, pag. 1 4», find more dulnefle and fluggifli- 

Affurance of faith doth enable nefle then formerly, pag. 3 1 1. 
with more eafeto overcome the When Satan tempts with gvc?.- 
world, pa. 147,1 49* teft rage and furie, then his temp- 

tations are ncareftto an end,- pa. 
500. 

If Satan renew his affaults, or 
fhift his temptations, faith doth 



Faith is not flothfuUnor felfe- 
confi^ent in refiftmg Satans 
ttmptations, pa. 292,15 J,3 00, 

Faith fighteth againft /e/»/>fdri 



ow and allurements unto finne by not faint, nor ccafcto make re 
thepowcr of Chnft, par.2, ca.^, fiftance,pa.3oo,3oi. 
pa. 376. It\ temptations the poor c foule 

God hath given Chriftians ma- eying the promifc by faith, be- 
,ny encoutagcmants to refitt Sa« takes it felfe unto the Lord for 

I i fuccour 



Art Alphabetlcatt Tahle, 



fuccour promiled, and relies iipoa 
hisgcace, ^1,197 ^%oj,ioZ. 

Mtanss to ftirre up ourfelves 
to live by faicli in time of grie- 
vous temptations, 304,50 J, 

In the a^onie of Confcience 
none moie unfit to judge of oar 
! ftare,thenweof ourowaejpar.i, 
ca.izj pa.174. 

In the examination and tiiall' 
of our eftates wc commit no fmill 
errors in time of temptatioa, pa. 



Thin\efulmjfe- 



Faith difpofeth the hcait to 
thu^liefulneje, par.»,ca.8,pi.3 ^9, 
lis. & cap. 10, pag. 35,^^ 
393,599. 

Triu faith ftirretk lip to thank,- 
fulnejfe £or the beginning of fan - 
ft.ficacioj, par, a, cap. 3, pig. 
i4?. 

Living by faith in times of 
triall and vi(itatio:a doth fit and 
By extremity of temptation the prepare the hsars to tha-nJ^ulntlfe 
godly are fometimes brought £0 when light {hill fhiae from on 
low, that they can difcerne no high, and that fo much the more 
fparke of faith, no fruit of grace, as the afflidiions hare becne the 
nor marke of Gods love in the n- {harper, or of longer continuance 
felveSjpa.joi. How this co tics to par.i,ca 7,pa.34i. 
paflLc,p. 3 01,302, The remedies in In receiving the Lords Supper 
this diftrefTc, pag.302, 303,304. faith fiirreth up Joy and //&<»«j^e/M/- 
Szt Grace, ^^Jf^y with ferious remembrance 

God imputes not to hi sfcrvants of the manifold benefits and blef- 
the hellifh thoughts fuggelted fings which in Chrift Jefus are 
by Satan into their mindes, which vouchfafed, par,»^ca.i i^ pa.410 
they coftfent not to, pag, 30,6, 420- 

5 ©7. - When by faith in Chrift we fee 

The benefits that come unto ourfelvcsfct free from thedread- 

usby tem^tatms, par.i3ca.8, pa. full curfes of the Law, ourhcarts 

III. are inlarged in praife and thankf- 

^ow temptations worke for the giving, par, a, ca. 1 2, pa. 42 y. 
fpeciall good of Gods fervants, 
par.2,ca.6, pa.3og,309. 

Faith diicernes that temptations 
ferve for thefcoeu-ing of the Lords 
velTelSj and for the encreafe of 
their graces, pag.goi. 

Summer fruits of faith are not 
to be expeded in temptations, ^ir, 
r,Ga.i2, pag.i87,iS8. 

What fruits of faith are fcafo- 
n^ble iauatfWimjihid^ 



Threatnings. 

God is equally to be believed 
in his threatnings and promifcs, 
par.2,ca.iz, pa.4iij4ii. 

Beliefe of the threatnings is 
neceflary, par. 1, cap. j, pag. 

The threatnings are flrong bri- 
dles to keeps from naughtiacfle, 
par. i,ca. f ^pa.^ f , par.»,ca,i 4,pa. 

4^?.4i4j4iy. j 

Firme alTent to the accom- 1 

. plifli-* 



An Alfh^yettcaaTahle, 



plifhment of divine thnatnings 
doth beget humiliation for finnc 
paft, and vigilancic to fliunnc 
h'n and efcape danger, ibid. 

The Godly aie wifely to 
believe the threatnings to pre- 
vent falling into finnCj pag. 

42 2.. 

T he tartnefle of the threatmng 
makes us bell taft the fwcetneflb 
of the promifejibid. 

As wee feelc God to bee true 
in his threats fo wee may bee 
aflured hee will not faile of his 
promifcs, pai'. a, cap- 7, pag. 
335. 

The afls of faith inrefpect of 
the threatnings 3 par. x, ca. i z,pag. 



V. 



f^ertui. 



No wnf'e/ie'UcrcanpIeafeGod, 
p2r.i,ca.»,pa.i. 

The mother of unbelief? i$ ig- 
norance ofGodj his faithfuincfle 
mercy, and power, par. a, cap.i^ 
pa 297- 

M^ns wilfulncffe the radicaif- 
and prime caiife of obftmate un- 
belief e. par, I . cap. »'pag. i|. 
Efteds of vnbeliefe. pag. icj 

204,&C» 

Vaderflanding. 

Faith is in the under/landing, 
par.a,ca.3,pag.3o. 

f^nderftanding isthegiftfofGods 
grace p?.r. 1 cap.x.pag, i o. 

In producing faith God doth 

fiiit beftow upon man the gift of 

•vnderfianding ibid. 

Jt IS a worke irrefiftible.ibid. 



The true caufe why men h- 
bcur in vainc to pradjfe fome 
particular icr/z/e, par. 2,ca.j,pa, 
J44. 



Vnheliefe. 

How Infidelity or Vnheliefe 
may bee found out and made 
odious, par.a,ca.i,pag.2oa,to3, 
j04,&c. 

The heart that cicaveth not 
ftedfcftly unto God is incredu- 
lous, par. i , ca.j, pag. 3 2. 

The manifold rebellions of 
Ifracl in the wilderneflc are cal- 
led Mat e/ie/(r,pa.g 3, 

fw^e/i^diflionoursGod, and 
hurts a mans owne foule, p5r. 2. 
ca.i,pag.205,»o6. 



Fnioa. 

By faith we are radically vnited 
unto Chrift.par. i. cap .4. pag. 42. 
& ca.xo.pag 13a. 

The fecondary union whereby 
the foule cleaveth unto God more 
and more is by meanes of the affe- 
ftions, par.i,ca.4,pa 51. 

The weakeil faith, if true and 
lively, doth fiimely andinfepari- 
bly knit unto Chrift, par. i,ca.io, 
pa. 146,141. 

The flronger our faith, the 
more firme and clofe is our union 
withChrift, pa. 14*, 

Afrerwfl/wfolloweth Comrr.u- 
nion with Chnft, Juftification, 
Adaption, Saaftification, par.i, 
cap.7,pag.8j. 

I i z Zfntvortlinejfe, 



Att AlphahtlcaSTahle, 



with pleifing delights, par.3jca,8 , 

Vnworthinejfe . P^ 5 ^ f j 3 ^ 5 • 

■ Faith in. the promifesof perfe- 

If any be confounded in confct- verance begets care to fhua the 
ence of his owne wretchcdnefle, occfions of finne, :{nd watch ful- 
him doth the Lord intreate and «e^ to prevent fpirituall diftem- 
perfyvadeto comefor eafe andrc- pers, pau. ijca.^jpa.iSz, 
frefhing, par.ijCa.1ijpag.1j4. Satan is vigilant to tempt, as 

The fence of our «nwor/J[)i»e^ he can cfpic his opportunity ; and 
fhould make us to denie our faith is watchjUtt to avoid the 
felveSj not difcourage us frotn be- fnare, or wichftand the affault. 



leeving, par. i, ca. iz, pag. i^j-, 
par.ijCa.i, pag.2»7, az8j»34, & 
ca.4,p3g.265. 



par.s.ca.6jpa.z99. 

Faith in the tUrcatnin^s fti^rcth 



up continuall vgatcbfuhes to fhun 
whatfocvcr might breed danger, 
'■ or procure Gods difpleafurcj par, 

ytcation. 2,ca i2,pa.4i4. 

Faith may flumber for a little 
The meafure of faith is fo di- feafon, but the propertie of itj 
vidcdby divine providence, that when lively and in good plight, 
to none who are called according is to kecpe waking, pag. 299. 
to his purpofcj h given leffo then 



may fuffice to their falvatioji, par. 
IjCa.iOjpag 142. 

Effeduall vocation i» a pledge 
and token of glorification to 
enfue, par. z, ca. j, pag. 180, 



Vprightne0- 

Vpri^it walking is necefl'ary, 
but nor the caufe of Juftification, 
par.ijca.gjpag.ii^. 

The wcakeft taith gives will 
and ability in fome fort to 
walkc uprightly, par. i, cap* 10, 
pig. 14^. 



W. 

Watehfidm£e. 

Faith fs jealous, vigilant, leaft 
the heart fooiild be drawne away 



WArfAu, 

Our Warfare doth laft during 
Iife,par.i»ea.3,pag.36.. 



jyea^nejfe. 

Of our felvcs wee .have no 
ftrength either before or after our 
converfion to prevaile againft the 
enemies of our falvation, par. 2, 
ca.6,pa.294. 

Feeling i»ea\nejfe of faitK wee 
muft lookc up to Chiift, par.2,ca. 
i,paAo8. 

Faith acquaints a man with his 
owne weaknsjf& and inability for 
the workeof Saadification, par. 
^jca,j,psg.24i. 

Faith makes fenfible ol our 
X9za\YKffz aod inability to perfe- 
vcrein grace received^ par. i, cap, 

5- 



A» A/phahticali Tahle, 



j^ifidome. 



fj p3g- aSa. CoafeiTeth and Jbe- Why all doc not belicvfi that 
wailcsit,pa.i87;,i8«. _ heare the /s^ori, pa. 15 ^14. 

Faith makes us coiifcious of Though the /For^ do not work 
oatovwncweafzne/fein bearing af- faith without the Spirit, yet all 
flidionj, and raiUth theheartto nien muft give attendance toit, 
reft upon the Lord for ilrength, pag, 14. 

par. 2, ca,7, pag. jzo, 32^^ 330, The TJ^ordis both the meanes 
331, whereby we bclicvejand the fub- 

jed of our beliefe^ pa. i j. 

Without the JVord no faiihj 
par. I, ca. 3, pa. 15. 

Faith is grounded upon the 
ff^i/eJome diftinguifhed* from T^^wiof God fimply divine, (ub- 
knowledge which it prefiippofeth, jc<S to wo errour, par, i , ca.p, pa, 
par.i,ca.3,pa,iff. I23.&ca;4,pa.<f5. 

Faith a wife gift or gtacc of The pj/or Jo£G<id once fpob^n 
God, par. I, ca.t,pa. 10. &ca,3, and often reiterated is of equal! 
pa. If. certainty in it felfe, par, 1, ca,8. 

By faith 3 man is made wife to pa- no, 
difcerjie what is lawful!, good The pairs of the ^cr<i pair»t, 
and feafonable, par.2, ca.^j pag, ca,2, pa.209. 
376. That wee might live by fiith. 

Faith teachcth m^dime to vve muft bee aecjuainted with the 
judge aright of affltdions, andfo i^ord, both promifes and Corn- 
makes us willing to give our niandements, par.ijCa.i^pa.ipS, 
neckes to the yoke, par. 2, ca.7, I99. ' .. • • 

pa. 3 27,342. Wee muftcxercifc faitli inthc 

• Haviag no wifedome bf our ?Fori,. pa. 2 ao,',&c. 
felves to make ufe of chaft.fe- Faith ponders the TTori fcri - 
mentSj faitli teachcth to ieeke ou^y, andtreafurcsitupfare, pa. 
unto God by prayer, that face ^°i« 

wouU teach us taprofit by them. Lively faith feedetk on tHe 
fiiew uswhaiisamiifle, aiidena*. W^0J'iandin)3rcafeth,par.i/:a.ii^ 
blcustoperfotmeit,pa,358,3j9, pa. 163. 

340, Faith believing perfeverancr in 

grace feeds upon the ^f'oFfi of iif^, 

par.2,ca.5:,pa,283, 

fjTdrd. There be many promifes made 

to them that confcionably kear- 

Ordinarily the Holy Ghofl: ken to the f^ord, that God will 

doth worke faith by the MiuiAe- hlefle it to their cofort, ftrengthe- 

ry of the ^or</, pai* i, ca. », pa. ning in grace and everlafting/al- 

13. vation, par. 2, cap. II, pag 400, 

The^F'oriisbutaninftrument, 401, 
whereby it pleafeth God to work, Thefc promifes bee firmc 
ibid. grounds, whereupon the faithfull 
______^_ Ti ? may 



An AifhaheticttUTAbh, 



n^ay build their affiance, that by 
the confcionable ufe of the word 
they fhall be made wife unto fal- 
vatien, pa. 40^,40 j. 

It is not the having, but the 
new exercife of faith which makes 
us profitable hearers of the Word, 
pa, 40 3. 

The Word of God denounceth 
deftrudion to the workers of ini- 
quity, par.i,ca.4,pag.J^ 

Worfis. 

The promifc of pardon recei- 
ved by faith is of free grace,which 
will not ftand with the dignity 
oiworlieSy par.ijCap.Zjpag.zii, 

211. 

Men truelyjuft and holy, and 
rich in all manner of gocd7ror/;ef, 
as Abraham^ muft ftiU acknow- 
ledge thcmfelves unprofitable 
fervants, pag.jzz. &cap.9, pag. 

Life eternail is given of grace 
not f6ld for wor^ci , received 6y 
faith, not purchufed by defcrt, 
par.i,ca.4,pa.i6^,2sz. 

F lith doth not begin to appre- 
hend life, and leave the accom« 
plifhment to »or^Cf,but doth reft 
upon the promife of life uatill wd 
come to enjoy it,'par.», cap. 4, pa. 

2^. 



A preparation or promptitude 
of heart to good 'a)orf{et is an efted 
of faith as imn\e<iiate as Juftifica- 
tion, par. i,ca.43pa. 57, 

Estcrnall lepor^es which are 
outwardly vifible and apparant 
to men, cannot be the life, but 
are the fruits and cftcds of faith, 
par.i,ca4.pa.4j.4f. 

Faith brings forth good»or^ef, 
and the better fruit it bnngeth 
the fafter itgroweth, par, i, ca. 
ii.pa.i^z. 

Difference betweene the »or/jex 
of the Temporarie and unfained 
Believer, par.ijca.pjpi. 38 1, 

To do civill and naturall worfies 
without feare, reverence and due 
conhderation is a fruit of unbe- 
licfe, pag. z, cap. I, pag. 2 oy. 

World ov loporldlypleafureSt 

profits znAhonours : 

See Riches, 



Faith efteemeth,?pprovethand 
exetcifcth that tporjhip which God 
prefcribeth, par.z, cap.n, pag. 
404. 

It quickenetk to ferve God in 
all his ordinances with diligence, 
chcarcfulneffc and beft endea- 
vour, pag.40<5. 



FINIS. 



WH«MM»»ets9BsaBss)E>*a 



T'W^ F ■"'•'