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Therapeutica Sacra : 

— ■ -* - - 
Shewing b icfly, TI.e 

METHOD 

Of HE \LING t 

DISEASES 

OF THE 

ConCcfetue 

CONCERNING 

REGENERATION 

Written in Latine by DAVID DtCXSOM, 

Profcfloref L 

hurgh: And thereafter Tra: by him. 

MATT H. 9. 11. 

They th.it he whole need not a IhyfictaH, hut 
they that arejuk. 

The Second Edition. 



EDINBURGH, 

Printed by James Wat fen in Crargs-Clofs. on 

the North-fide of the Crots. 160-. 



Edinburgh March iSrA. i6$t. 
ADVERTIS E MENT 

v 

7# the Buyer and Reader of this | The- 

ra^ucica Sacra. 

THa: whereat - jnd Imp': 

which hith bceu pibl shed and ex poled to Sale, tor Ic 
Mooeths bcrore any ofthcKelauousot t. eAu:hor kiit.< <mc, 

And w « c a what rhrough t! • I'ukm^ncj of the pcrloo wiio w-i 

nargeofthe Iir. » • a or tat 

Prcfi, tod w'ut through the Cartit Uoi ■ n • 

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• f theScnfeof thefcj-lacei where the lime ire, as ikew/i.eche whole 
Tabk to! the Chapters rend red ulelela bf printing it at 
ic waicalcuUte tor tncErft Imprtilion. Therefore the Courteous 
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I be plcalcd w:th his pen to cor i ing 

-:ngfuch at art mofl ntKerial.bccaufcot the I I 
the true Meaning or Emphafis ofthewordun the places OUfkci 
w ere >f lerebe fete:. 

ng Reader i yet the Imprellion being defgacd for 

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ply w .at Words are wanting , and::> as 

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.Dle«r Word from onr pj^; M an^rl-er ; a»:,c... 
nig. or want of Pe -^res, and the wre of 

ionotin -ofrhepL 

^ < ■ t, ( they being Inch as anj of o; nay 

obfc hoped the judicious Re, 

r«V -mend or pardon the fame, cl^ecu .atbyfo 

» in^&by fofplyiogt! eLmc 

the ^ wc e w n [ beuignow reprinted, and he L 
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ar.er the ue here i fol- 

io>kwill be found in Scbftam n to 

rortgiati Copy. 41] which with I en 



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To the BOOK-IINDEK, 

Place this zJdvcrtifement with the Corrections of the Errata ftU 
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Th« CORRECTIONS of the ERRATA are as follows: 
In fe ting down of which Corrections, ©bierve that the Lcrter( P) 
il ..-in ties the page whercthcC^rrecliou istobemadej as Letter (L} 
the Line of tfaeuid p£g$ and the Letter (R) toRead, to wit as is 
let down in the places marked. 

Which Corrections tho they may fecm to be bulkie, yet there 

f be but little to mend in companion of what arc fer down here- 

;rds, becaufe there isanecefsity to repeat more theo istobc 

&'cd»and that to make is the moie clear for the Roadex how to a* 

en4 the faults. 

Car- 



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€hty 71* T~4 BLM T*gi 

XIV. Wfcereia it felvod the doubt ofthe true Convert, whether he be in 
the fate of Grace, becaufc fume god Jy pet foos look upon bin as an Hypo- 
eiice, 44t 

XV Wherein the Converts donbting of his being in the ftateof Grace, ib 
oft* s ac doth not feel the fenfc of his Reconciliation v-itk God ii examined 
and anfwered. 44.J 

XVI. VYhcrein isfolvcd the true Converts Doubt of his Regeneration, be- 
•anfe he fcemeth to himfelf not to grow in Grace by the ufe ofthe weans ap- 
pointed rbf his growth. 4j 1 

XVtI. Wherein is folved the Converts doubt whether he be Regenerat.be- 
eaufc he feemeth to himlclf to follow Religion and Righteoufncfs fr*m 'the 
common operation of Gods working by Moral fwafion, and netftetnthefpe- 
rial Operation and Iropultion ot the Holy Spirit, 4JJ 

XVII?. Wherein if- folvcd the true Converts doubt, whether he be Regc- 
nerat ? Bceaufcbe fiadethnotfelf denyal in thcmcafuic which is Re^uifit 
in Converts. 459 

XIX. therein is folved the doubt of the true Convert, whether he be in- 
deed Converted, arifing from this, that bcknoweth no Child ol God lb 
haedtrexercifed as he is. 4*3 

XX. JTherein isfolvod the Converts doubt whether he be Converted? Be* 
eaufe he doth not rind in himfelf the infallible markt of Regeneration 467 

XXI. Wherein is folved the donbt ofthe true Convert whether he be in- 
deed Converted, beeanfe he cannot confidently apply to himfclf the pjomifea 
ofthe Gofpel. 47? 

XXU . wherein is folved the doubt ofthe true Cenveir concerning hit 
Conversion. arifing from the Obferratien in himfelf orprcfumptinn and Secu- 
xtty in his Prolperity. and of bis misbelief in adveffity, 4 g, 

XXUl Pfherein is folved the doubt of a true Converts Regeneratioo,ari- 
fingfrora fomc falfc Ruleapplved without Rcafon to himfelf. 4 g$ 

XXIV. jrhercin is folved the CoDvertsdouhtrf bis Own Conversion, be- 
eanfe he hath found the deceitfulnefs of hi* or a Hca:t,and dare not truft it a- 
nyanore. 4*p 

X XV. ffherein it (olved the doubt ofthe True Converts Conv«fion> ariiing 
from his b . racti of the Covenant of Grace as he conceiveth. 495 

XXVI, herein is folved the True Converts doubt whether he be Rcgene- 
**s beoaafe he flndeth himfelf notonly far from the meafuicor Holynefs 
which beobfetvethro have been in the faints commended in Scripturej but 
alio thortof the Mcafure which fome of bis Acquaintance have attained 

XXril. herein is foWod the Trne Conceits doubt, whether he be m the 
SleOed State of Grace, becaufe he Sndeth himlelftrequentlyinan evil con- 
dition* 5 °* 

XXml: ^herein isfolved the Doubt ofthe True Convert concerning his 
laceration, beraufc he findeth the power 01 the Body of death in thepol- 
loiioo ofthe JmaginatioMof his Heart, rigorous and Powexrul ,ro 

XXIX. fhewinghow to quench the firy Darts of Satan, and Res<jfihniln- 
lalfuegeftibas, vvherlnroflhortetenduTanceorotlongercootinuance. , ,, 
, XXX, W'heicin arc feme mixedcafesfpokenol, whetenwo the True Con- 
vert is fabjeft, sadfe way fall to doubt of aw Convciuon <» intereft in 
•feiift. k 

B9QJL 



BOOK IT! 

C^Ooc«Toin| Come pre» r - , . . „ . « 

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acoaomxijM, ao4 r 

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•c NHMHl I c c?cm.o: I men dcttfiofl * .' - 

laji.ntt • «. 

•fothcri h»xri been fteiblf loentT sod laaprudeot ccmci 6|« 

XV. I n£ uat r..:i|it C ^viaitpeA wal 

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C**p. ThttA-MLW. Pip 

XXI V. Concerning the Converts imprudent cenfiire ofhi«(elf for his felt 
impuiencr in bearing leffct troubles, after his patient beating of gteatec 
troubles. 6to 

XX/. Concerning the Converts miftaking his cafe, for wanttfiacb a <ub« 
m;.'ioai;nro GoJicxerciiingot bim> as he would hare. 6t» 

XX /I. Concerning the Converts sniftaking of his condition, becaufc of 
TCECptanons. US 

XXVU. Concerning the Converts naiftaking his condition, when he dotli 
obici/eforac degrees of Gods deferring him. 6»0 

XX /lil. Concerning cafei,whcicintnc Convert is in doubt wkjftto ictez- 

mineabontnisGoniiuoa. 491 

F I K I S, 



[ »] 

■MHGK : :■•:■•:••:•■*« : ••: —:<<:^:. **..;, 

To the Right Hooouj and Very Noble 

T H Y 

COUNTESS Dowager 

GLENCAIRN 

M A A M, 

A I 1 r i tit Author W I »«?/! 
///2r</ //.;< Irettije in Latinc, /*r /Ar 
.y^ 5/ «r Theology; /; 

-'f// and trc lurnt Fntr- id< % 

be ivas ind ided to TranllJte it into 

9*r VtJfpr Tvn ' enho un- 

Jerftood not the Latir.c \ >md for - .'*^ theLx- 

&e< r \ men- | * iki/Jw, were 

alont the dotn^ rt ft, mut 
Ai mthfg i. 

% - 

d the 1 
mm to have A it / > r/, W/t 

fAf World under your rro~ 
kmtfi .:*.. 
• rfter the* 

h '- MMT, • ' • 

ft I /. 



4 The Epiftlc Dedicatory. 

Labours to enter into his Maflers Joy)Jeafing upon 

him, before he could write an Epiffle Dedicatory, it 

iv as his will, that your honourable Name fhould be 

prefixed unto it. In purjuance whereof, it comes 

noiv, as an Orphan, to k if s your Noble Hands, ft augh- 

ted with hopes of Favour and Shelter for the Pa* 

s fake, and of Acceptance, as a Teftimony of 

yiceritycf the Refpetts he carried to your L'ady- 

Venues. 

It hath the ftronger Plea for a tender Reception, 
that it is the Child of his Age, being his I aft La- 
bo'.tr, and being brought forth in ' his. Seventy, and 
Second Pear ; and that it comes arrayed in a jute 
cf Count rey-Cloth, which himfelf put upon it, being 
pub lifted according to the Copy written with his own 
Hand. 

That it may be, as. it was defigned by him, ufeful 

for the good of Souls, and that God may comfort you 

under your prejent J ad Affliction, and make up the 

Jofs of your Noble Husband, the late Lord High 

Chancellor 0/ Scotland, is the Prayer of 

MADAM, 

Your Ladyihips moft humbly 

Edinburgh, 13. devoted Servant, - 

June. 1664. 

Alexander Dickfon. 



THE- 




[ 

A UTHO R 

1 N G 

the 

CONSCIENCE 

RlXIIiNlZRATION- 

C i! A r. i. 

Sur purpofe is t 
nr | 

i 

\ 



BOOK I. [ 6 ] CHAP. II. 

the Cafes of the Confcience in general ; Thirdly, 
What Regeneration is, and who is the Man re- 
generate; Fourthly, Of divine Covenants, re- 
lating to eyerlafting Happincfs ; And, Fifthly, 
Of the orderly and prudent Application of thefe 
Covenants in general, that thereafter we may 
defcend to fpeak of Application thereof in par- 
ticular Cafes the more clearly. 

2. As to the Firft, What Confcience is,it hath 
pleafed God, the foveraign Lord and Judge of 
all Men, in the Creation, to put in Man's Soul 
a natural Power or Faculty, whereby he might 
hot only underftand the revealed Will of God, 
(the only Lord of, and Law-giver to, the 
Confcience) not only concerning what he Ihoulcl 
believe and perform, but alfo might judge of his 
own Faith and Obedience, whether performed, 
or net performed ; yea, and might judge alio 
of the Faith and Obedience of Others, in fo far 
as Evidences may be had of their conformity un- 
to, or dil-agreement from the revealed Rule of 
Faith and Maners. This Power of the Soul of 
Man, whether it be cpnfidered only in its natu- 
ral aptitude and fitnefs to judge, (though not 
as yet, or for the time, actually judging) or 
whether it be looked upon as it is putting forth It 
felf in qxcrcife,we call it by the Name of Confcience. 

3. The Word Confcience is divers ways taken ; 
for fomctime by it is meaned, the natural Power 
*f the Mind, to judge both of our own and o- 
fhers conformity to the Rule : And in this lar- 
ger 



BOOK !. { : ] ( MAP. L 

gcr mbatbaCm/cm 

that i ry Man, whether M 

whether Old or Voung,whccbci Sleeping or W 
ing. bach a Faculty, which may, and kxncfii 
(hall, judge of their own and others behaviour 
towards God. Sonn or that na- 

tural i of the Mind, putting forth it iclf 

aduaJiv in c b) judging of other* i bo 

doth the Apoftle take it, i < | . /rn^faitli 

tifcjl in your Confcirnccs. But 
in this Treatiie, WC take Cmfciemcc more 
-unethand judgethofourfeh 
, it is mofl property called Con~ 
r Joir.t-knowledge ; partly, becauii 
it i th, tha we know our Obe- 

CO the R lenbed to 

by Him; partly, becauieConfcicnce import . 

t our know of the Rule; and. next, our 

kn ir Behaviour in relation to the 

Ru r comparing of thclc two together. 

and - - our fc 

\ I nee, as it dotl t our (elves, is 

^r thing, jn , then the undcrfb; 

bow Matters do 
fta« I and us, ■illre- 

* with our [ Cf 

lc or omitted, 
and | : \z thereup 

tpii urt of Co 

(*l Depute in us, as ii 

A 4 



1 



BOOK r. [ 8 ] CHAP. I. 

of Self-examination ; 2. The Thing we are to 
examine ; 3. The Rule whereby we are to ex- 
amine ; 4. The Procefs of the Confcience unto 
Sentence giving ; And, 5*. The execution of the 
Sentence lb 'far as the Confcience may. 

-. As to 'the Firft, the duty of Examination of 
ptk {elves and judging our (elves, it is required 
of as, left we be judged of God and chalufedwith 
dharp Rods, 1 Cor. 11. 31.32. and hereunto we 
■are exorted, T [.^.Commune with your own Hearts 
upon your Beds, and be flill. 

6. As for the Second, the Thing which we are 
to examine concerning our felves, it is one of 
three,or all the thrce,iq their order; to wit either 
out eft ate, whether we be in the ltate of Nature, 
under Wrath, or not : or whether we be regenerate 
and in the ftate of Grace through Faith in Jefus 
Chrift,ornot. Cfthisfpeakeththe Apoftie, 2 Cor. 
13.5- .Examine your fe 'foes whether ye be in the Faith. 
Or it is our condition, whether being in the ftate 
of Grace our prefent difpofition or inclination of 
Heart and Affections be fuch, as becomethaMan 
reconciled, or not. To this point of examination, 
Chrift doth call the Angel of the Church cHEphe- 
[us, Revel. 2. 5*. Remember therefore from whence 
thou art fallen. Or, the thing we are to examine 
is our Deeds, Words and Thoughts adruallydone 
or omitted : the neglect of which examination is 
reproved, fetthb 8. 6. and Bevel. 2. 19. 20. 

7 . The Third Thing to be looked unto in the 
Court of Confciciicq, is the Rule whereby we are 



to 



ROOK L [ 9 1 CH Al\ L 

to examine our (elves in all, or "the 

ill of 

.herein «m.i d 

I 

;• of 

Faith, and what is the Puftifl 
cmv. Ami I 

crnr 

- 

S 

8. oedft 

1 

fou n . or not d< h Procd 

inform 

v 

Law rhen 

om- 



Cone 

> he 

i 
anJ Manners./ »<»ji: 



BOOK I. [ 10 ] CHAPL 

But, the holy Scripture God hath appointed to he 
the only Rule of Faith and Manners. 

Therefore, / mufl take heed to follow the Scrip* 
ture as the only Rule. 

Or more fnortly, the Lord hath commanded 
to repent and turn unto him (offering Reconcili- 
ation in Chrift) therefore it is my duty (b to do. 

But in theProcefs of the Confcience untoCon- 
vi&ion or Abfolution, fometime moe, fomctimc 
fewer Reafcnings are ufed. 

As f6r Example, for Conviction, the Procels 
goeth thus, 

that which Cod hath commanded me IJhould have 
done : 

But, to repent and turn to Him, He hath Com- 
memded me. 

Therefore ,7 'fhould have repented (§ turned to God. 

Again, He that hath not oleyed the Lord, in re- 
penting of his evil wayes and turning unto God, is 
under great guilt inefs, and worthy of Death, by the 
Sentence of the haw, 

But, fuch a one am I, may every impenitent Per- 
fon fay of hi mi elf; 

And therefore may conclude of himfelf, I am 
under great guilt inefs, and worthy of Death, ly the 
Sentence of the Law. 

Likewayes, in the Procefs of the Confcience, 
a humble Pcrfon well imformed, may realbnthus. 

That way of Re cone Unit ion which Grd hath appointr 

edafelf condemned § inner to folhw, I am hound to 

follow : 

Bup 



DOO K L [ ii ] I H A P. 1 

i i way ( and IM i d app*t*ttd 

:bf St*tttr t LOtrjiH,\' nd of dei'rvcd 

uyiej *J* 

man, aiul na 

r. / am bound to fil 

f k v / andetcrn.i 

litnct t* 
(tod, xsundci ; true Believer and 

God \ 
but. Inch a Mfjw /,mav tlic humbL'J Sin 
fled 

Therefore, / m / iodundvnkc 

a ttmBtticver and a Child of God. 

i he may . coftreogthen 

Fiichand to comfort h 

:*, Vol • ftfiv 

:' 

never to par: 

- .' :o endeavour to ghf€ net* 

f to t m/:* 

tromifcdB l*p» tv 

;n poftcjfion at / 
• Buc/nci an one am /. ma\ the humble J Sinner, 
rift, lay of him 
Til . / am an Heir of tiff pror 

jiufs with Ila«k\ and may hope r :hcm pa 

dnpifrjfm. 

I 15 as tlusJcthchc Coo(ci»C 

the 



BOOK I. [ n] CHAPL 

the regenerate Man follow when he reneweth the 
A&s of his Repentance, and fentenceth himfelf 
worthy of what the Law pronounceth againft his 
Sin ; and when he reneweth the Adts of his Faith 
in Chrift, through whom alone he is fred from 
the deferved Curfe of the Law. 

9. As to the Fifth Thing to be obferved in 
the Court ofConfcience, which is, the execution 
of the Sentence it hath pronounced ; becaufe the 
Confcience is fet over the Man by God,as judge- 
depute: therefore it goeth about,in the name of 
God by and by to execute, as it may, the Sen- 
tence juftly pronounced by it; and according to 
the nature of the Sentence, of Condemnation or, 
Abfolution, pronounced by it, it ftirreth up dn 
vers Motions and Affe&ions in the Heart ; fome 
of them fad and- forrovvful, fomeof them joyful 
and comfortable. The lad and hitter Pailions that 
follow upon the Sentence of Convid:ion and 
Condemnation, juftly pronounced, are Shame, 
Grief, Fear, Anxiety, Vexation and fuch-like ; 
whereby the guilty Sinner is either fretted, as 
with a Worm, or fired and tormented. Qf this 
we have m example in pur firft Parent Adam, 
who, being convicted in hi§ Confciencc ofSin 
and defer ved Wrath, did flee from the Face of 
God, all amazed and afrighted, Gen. 3. 9, 10, 
The Lord calkd unto A&zm^ndfaid unto him/her e 
art thou > And he faid y I heard Thy Voice in the Gar- 
den, and I was afraid, becaufe I ms naked } and I 
hid my fe If • 

But 



BOOK I. (r, ] CI! A V 1 

l ■■. i i • i ' Is (braid) the 

uvl to aSiolvc ihc 

Motions in die r Cortv- 

11 KC . \ li CL^UHDX'Bb »Vildv^'I ** C IlC 111 

, r. i. i. Our - iiyctffj laith lic« cx/ti 
•fry #/ oicr Cnm/cie t limplictty 

ami jfl ^ ^K 

/I* £/*-ff */ God, 'we k lomrcorrjcrjuttcn in 

I 

is wounJc.l by the 

citiru: inbcfbr inal;andd 

of in Ojfrrr, prclenting the M \.\ H the Bar; anJ 

the part of an Accnjer % challenging the Man for 

hu tranfg Recorder, 

producing the Br rok of Statutes 

luiKacnt ics, pro 

of the Dec 

•ainit d i JuJ'r- ing 

ice an. 1 . 

Mtrftv? 

tli 

oound v part oj >UTg- 

I 
irvl rco 
iftcr] cc aid \ aith, cml 

dcci 

I 



BOOK!. [14] CHAP. 11 

deemer, it doth the pare of an honed /r/>W,carc- 
fally comforting the Innocent or Penitent ; and 
the part of anAdvocat, excufing and defending 
the Man againft all Challenges; and the part of 
Witneffcs compurgatours ; and the part of the JuJgf 
abfolving ; and the part of the Rewarder. Andfo 
much concerning the Nature and ufe 6f Con* 
fcience, as may fuffice opr purpofe. 

CHAP. If. 

Of Cafes ef Confcience in general. 

A Cafe of Confcience, taken in a large (enfe; 
comprehends every accident which any 
to ay affects or qualifieth the Confcience. And in 
this fenle , the pcrfwafion and certainty, which 
the Confcience may have, the foundnefs, health 
and ilrength of the Confcience, may be called 
Cafes, and good Gates of the Confcience, 

Soalfo, any effed: which the Confcience dotl 
work on the Soul ,fuch as are Peace of Confcience, 
Comfort and Joy in the Heart, may be called 
Cafes of the Confcience a!fo. 

But the Cafes whereof we are to treat, are the 
ill Cafes of the Confcience, whereby it is fallba 
from the foundnefs and ftreightnefeit ihould have, 
which we call by the name of Wounds, Difeafes, 
and Sicknefs of the Confcience : Whereunto, 
that we may defcend to fpeak more orderly, a 
SfrcHfald ditterencc is to be obferyed 

z. Firft, 



hook i. [**] chap. ir. 

B wc mu -ice becwcca t 

a fick ( v Con. 

inys | K>thc Role o! ;d, doth 

th pel > u> 

OfTuch a < 
Umc*. A (o«nd Heart u the Life of | ro v. 

j I hcmcanctli the Lonfc/' 

Scripture is called the Heart. 
And he t ic founa Conscience is the Life of 

Icfll ; becaufe the Body is fomuch in bet- 
ters »c the C ice DC ac Peace toward 
Idling is allowed upon every 
Believer mChrirt.in his orderly walking, i. Tim: 
t f. Go J bath not &ive* *$ the Spirit of Fear 9 
imt of Power ; of Lrue % and of a fowid Mm J. \ Con- 
ifpofition needcthnot Mcdkiac, 
vounihment and c l in all 
Chr; 

AfickCo.". .it which ci:'irr is 

own I ts it is in. 

ind fittcth d xurcly, aud reftcth without a 

1 >r. which isjuftl] I la- 

] am; or \ is 

upon mifkakes an making 

nflpor the true R 

cjk. if pollible, by God\ a 

word 

Confciencc, or to rcfrclli the weary Soul, that 
being recovered fr may be 

iblc to focd upon rUc Bread and Water c 



BOOK I. [ 16 ] CHAP. H 

and work the Works of God in the ftrength oi 
Chrift. 

3. Secondly, we muft put difference between a 
troubled Soul and a troubled Confcience ; for. 
the Soul is more largely taken then the Con- 
fcience. The Soul comprehendeth all the Powers 
and Faculties of the Man ; but the Confcience. 
as we fpeak of it, is only one Faculty of the 
Mind, judging of the Mans moral ill or well-be- 
ing; and fo all Cafes of the Confcience are Cafes 
of theSoul: but all the Cafes of the -Soul are not 
Cafes of the Confcience: For, the Soul may be 
troubled while the Confcience is not troubled ai 
all ; yea a Man may have a commendabk 
trouble in his Soul, when he leeth God diiho- 
noured, or His Church in hazard, whereby hu 
Confcience is fo far from being troubled, tha 
fuch a holy Trouble ftrengthens his Con£cienc< 
in his Addrefs to God,as is in many places of th 
Tf alms to befeen. 

Again, a Mans Mind may be troubled by fun- 
dry natural or civil Motives ; while the Gon> 
fcience is allowably quiet, as inlolTes of Thing' 
temporal, Fears, Pains or unexpected incoiv 
encics occurring ; yea, there may be Paifionsan. 
Perturbations of the Mind friPxaihns that attcC&i 
capable for the time of the etarcife of Co 
as may be feen in young Infants, and 1. 
der fort in fits of Fever,Melanchoily and Pheranfie 
and yet further, it is p'oflible that Paffions^ Per- 
turbations and Troubles of Soul may be 1 



BOOK 1 [ i- ) • | p. in. 

our Loiv 

>bnoxi< 
new no 

■ 
Job. 

t* Ale from 
mi I ma . Of the ( 

. but ( (infill 

ifcs of *ce. 

a diirJ Di ceo be ob- 

■ 
I 

Doubi <. 

I 
*nJ Manocn 

about t )uc the 

• 
■ 

trine hcLi forth in 

not b 

fir as 
:i. 



BOOK L [ 18 ] CHAP. III. 

CHAP. III. 

Of Regeneration, what it is ; and theregenerat 
Man, who he is. 

WE fpeak not here of the Regeneration of 
eled: Infants, dying in their Infancy, 
God hath His own way of dealing with them ; 
but of the Regeneration of thofe who are capa- 
ble of being outwardly called by the Miniftry 
of the Word which we may thus defcribe, 

Regeneration (being one in effcdt with effectu- 
al calling ) is the Work of God's invincible Power 
and meer Grace, wherein, by His Spirit, accompa- 
nying His Word, He quickeneth a Redeemed Perfon 
lying Dead in his Sins, and reneweth him in his 
MindjVili, and all the Powers of His Soul; convin* 
j:ing him favingly of Sin, Righteoufnefs and Judg- 
ment, and making him heartily to embrace Chrifl 
and Salvation, and tv confecrat- himf elf to the Ser- 
vice of God in Chrifl, all the days of his Life. 

%. The main thing we muft take heed to 
in this work, is to give to God intirely the Glo- 
ry of His Grace and Power and Wifdom, fb that 
the Glory of Mans Regeneration be neither given 
to Man, nor Man made fharerof the glory with 
God, but God may have the whole glory of ffij 
free Grace, becaufe out of His own good- will, 
not for any thing at all forefeen in Man, He lets 
forth His* ipecial Love on the Redeemed in a 
time acceptable; and the glory of His Almighty 
Tmer, becaufe by His omnipotent and invincible 

work- 

*v7 , f ( 



BOOK t [ ro 1 CH A P. nr. 

Working, He makes the I .k: fa Sins ro | 

opens In I ro take up 

of God, takes 2 

ikes him a new Lrcaturc, to will - 
H mdthc m, 

who dcaleth to with His ( rcaturc as H 
HOC <K .c perfect the natural 

I, making i ' nrcgenerat.moft fr. 
ratly ar, to embrace Quill, 

and to confccracc himfclf to ( I he 

rcafbn why we urge this, is, becaulc Artufc, by 
corrupting the Dodnnc of Regeneration, and 
pci - ig Men that they ai of them \ 

the common ami the natural ftrcngth ofth 
fa free-will, without the fpcc.al jal 

jcc of God, b ind 

others alio, doth 

hmdereth them from emptying anJ humbling 
thcmfclves !f- 

lyal, doth mar the R, :ion of them that 

arc delude ) Fnor.and obfeureth what 

he can, the (hining of the Glory of < ace, 

co iretiion of Ml 
- Praifc, proud Men let g tad 

Sod tor making M crfion pcf:Iic % vet 

* iiolc Glory of *3**l C "onvcrhon 
to tJ winch Ci ribcth to 

and Icavcth no more for Man to glo' 
lnt Mil Regtn~ 
glory 1:1 his own iiniralGviicratiod. 7^.3.5. 

B x % And 



BOOK I. [ 20 ] C H A P. HI, 

And the fame doth the Apoftle leach, Epfef. z. 
8, 9, io. and Philip, z. i;. It is 'G^(laitlihe) 
which ivorketh in you loth to iviU and to do of His 
even good pleafure. And therefore it is the duty of 
all ChrilVs Difciples, but chiefly their duty 
who are confecrat to God, to preach up the 
Glory of God's free Grace, omnipotent Power 
and unfearchable Wifdom, to live in the fenfe of 
their own Emptinefs, and to depend upon the 
furnitour of Grace for Grace, out of Chrift's Ful- 
nefs ; and zealoufly to oppofe the proud Error of 
' Man's natural ability for converting himfelf, as 
they love to fee, and find the effectual blefling 
of the Minftery of the Gofpel, and themfelves 
accepted for true Difciples at the day of 
their meeting witliChrift the Judge at His fecond 
coming. 

3. For opening up of Regeneration thefe five 
Propofitions mult be holden. The Firftis this, 
the natural Man receiveth not the Things of the 
Spirit of God; for, they are foolifhnefs unto him; 
neither can he know them, becaufe they are fpiri- 
tuallydifcerncd, 1 Cor. z. 14. 

The Second is this, it is the Spirit of God 
which convinceth Man of Sin, of true Righte- 
oufnefs and of Judgement, Job 16.9, 10, 11. c 

The Third is this, in Regeneration, Conversion 
and Quickning of a Sinner, God, by His invinci- 
ble Power, createtliand infufbha new Life and 
Principles thereof. Pfal. no. 3. Thy People fhaU 
le wiling in the day ofthypoiver, and Job 5. zt. 
and 6. 63. The 



• ] 

&:c. 

, . whcre- 

ium&prcjvt ^8° 

liter the igof 

junto .1 - inch 

who 
on of ufmg the 

• t the f r mft 

rem: 

i 
I 

I rod .Jell itutc of origins 
ccpu cnimity with God, ben 

for ail 

comnton Re; • 

ft ; 



BOOKI, [ *t ] CHAP. m f 

whereby he may confufedly knew that which 
is called fpiritual Good , acceptable and plealant 
unfo God, and fitto lave his Soul ; yet the Un- 
derftanding of the unrenewed Man judgeth of 
that Good, and of the Truth of the Evangel 
wherein that Good is proponed, to be meer 
Foolifbnefs, and doth reprefent the fpiritual Ob- 
jed: and fets it before the Will, as a thing un- 
certain or vain; and the Will of the unrenewed . 
Man, after deliberation and companion made 
of O^efts, fome Honed, fome Pleafant, and 
fome Profitable in appearance, naturally is incli- 
ned to prefer and choofe any feeming Pleafant 
pr Profitable Thing, whether the Objedt be Na- 
tural Qr Civil, rather then that which is truly 
Honeft, and morally Good. But if it fall ouf 
that a fpiritual Good be well,and in fair Colours 
defcribed unto the unrenewed Man, yet he feeth 
it not, but under the notion of a natural Gopd, 
and as it is cloathed with the Image of fome 
< natural Good, and profitable for preferving its 
(landing in a natural being and welfare therein. 
$o did the falfe Prophet Balaam look ypon the 
felicity of the Righteous in their Death,when he 
did feparate eternal Life from Faith and San&i* 
fkation, and did rent afunder the Means frqm 
the End appointed of God, faying, Let me dye 
the death of the Righteous, and let my lafl end be 
like his. Numb. 13. 10- 

After this manner the Woman of Samaria ap- 
prehended the Gift alid Grace of die holy Ghoft 

UN 



OOK I • ; ] v . in. 

an to bet ( nft, 

Lor J { tail me of tbst fVster, 

J » t) r f and m*y not come a 

to ( 

I 
Irn ig for their . cd- 

' ClMHOt 

i«f«? the tfo*^* of 

i, i C$r. 2. 

DO 

\i : for ic is not 1 aw ol 

innot I into it, / 

• 

loMllg 

of a lpir: 

li anJ not fpiritual : Fa 
Object, r pcrnatural Power of the 

I nderilanding and Will, to ttkc II right- 

ly ooncei natural \ acul- 

Man lsdcftia 
incual i id, that lie 

(piritually. 
4. 1 imoc a 

Mans Rcgau the Lord, that He ir 

Jbrcak I ice of the pcrfon whom 

ft, flvcwcth hii by 

DoArinc of the I Coven 

W 

powerful illumination < oly Spi: 

if Ignorar. 
13 Hi 



BOOK 1. [ 24 ] CHAP. Ill 

He flieweth him his Guiltinefs & deferved Damna 
tion, wherein he is involved, &fo taketh away 
all conceit and imagination of his Innocency. 
Thirdly ,He doth convince him of his utter ina^- 
bility to fatisfie the Law, or to deliver himfelf 
from theCurfe thereof, either by way of action 
and obedience, or by way of fuftering and pay- 
ing of the penalty of the violat Law of God : 
And fo overturneth all confidence in himfelf, or 
in his own Works. Whence followeth, theeledl 
Man's Defperation to be delivered by himfelf, 
becanfe he feeth himfelf a Sinner, and that all 
hope of Juftificationby his own Deeds or Suffer- 
ings, is cut'ofE Now, that this is the work of 
the holy Spirit,is p\ait\,Joh. 16 Z. When the Com- 
forter, the Spirit of Truth, fhallccme, hefhall con* 
wince the World of Sin, &c. And in this condition 
iundry of God's dear Children, for a time are 
keeped under the Bonds of the Law, under the 
Spirit of Bondage and fad Conviction. 

5. As for the third Propofition, the Lord af- 
ter He hath laid the Sin of Hiscled: Child, wh,o 
is to be converted to his charge by the Dodhinc 
of the Law, firft, openeth up a Light unto him 
in the Do&rine of theGolpel, and lets him fee 
that his Abiblutiotr from Sin and his Salvation 
is poffible, and may be had, by flying unto Chrift 
the Reedemer. Secondly, the Lord drawing 
near hand the humbled felf-condemned Soul,deals 
with him byway of moral fwafion, fweetly in- 
citing him in the preaching of the Gofpel, to 

> re- 



BOOK 1 [ i CH I 

receive the R t JefiM 

j 

i 

mon. he m 

i ufc 
the \ itli be: 

iruni Power, till h ral- 

ptnddcth unco mo i, crfe:l 

•icth in the Soul i . 

i 

the will of God. T 

(broctimc is called : u . ingofch 

tare, fomet 'n?rjticn % \< 

vkenin^ 
time S*vi*g Gra. the / 

I WofGixl. lu Tin- 

ciptc ot all Sarin) 

. 
IC, true it 
of tl 

t 1 the Lord w | i }. 

reak the power of 
: it Jot. 
God dui i 
Refinance ofthe Man in his C 



BOOK I. [ %6 ] CHAP. III. 

verfion fliould certainly follow, and God Ihould 
be difappointed of His purpofe to convert the 
Man, even when He hath put forth His almighty 
Power to work Converfion;but God doth fo wife- 
ly and powerfully flir up this new infufed Life 
of Grace, and fetteth it fo on work, that the Un- 
derftand'tng and Judgement like a Counfeilor, 
and the Will like a commanding Emperor, and 
the Attive Power of the new infufed Faculty as 
an Officer, do all beftir themfelves to brhg 
forth fupcrnatural Operations. Whence it 
cometh to pafs that the new Creature be- 
ginneth to look kindly on Chrift: the Redeemer, 
and to defire to be united unto Him, and doth 
ftretch forth it felf to embrace Him heartily 
for obtaining in Him Righteoufiiefs and Salva- 
tion, as He is offered in the Gofpel : And fo he 
calls himfelf over on Chrift with full purpofe 
never to Hied from Him, but by faith to draw 
out of Him Grace for Grace till he be perfected. 
And here the Man that wasmeerly pafTive, in his 
Quickning and Regcneration,beginneth prefent- 
ly to be adhve in his Conversion, and following 
Converfation : for, God giveth to him to will 
and to do of His good pleafure ; and he hav- 
ing obtained by God's effectual Operation fo 
Will and to do, doth formally will and do the 
good which is done. 

6. As to the fourth Propofition, when the 
JPower of God is put forth, invincibly for the 
inverting of a Soul,, jha; mviacible working 

is 



BOOK 1. [ i- ] CHAP, in 

n dcflroymg the natural hhjrty of 
dx - tecs 

it right on tic right ObjetfJ I it. 

nh tfa Man's 

>:mg chai be doth behold tin: Wonders 
La\r, when he re 1 the natural 

Bli (ce 

H thc( m and Power of 

•> i ; which (onetime he coMfc> 
he doth no ways de- 
ft roy i Mans Judgement, or I ng, 
COrrcd \ heal, aid I t it | 
iric doth powerfully tod c 
.rn the IViS of 

ing Offers of Chn 
Golpcl, ttid i . lnm del: 

ratly choole tins b\ mon, and 

to renounce all confident inhfa own, or any 
>rks. He doth not deftr 
WJf of the J- loth 

it up from 1 -:s damnable Inclination, 

and makcth it joyfully and mod 

• • 
(elf in its choice for t jreforc, let no 

Man i ill, 

prhen God (tops it; 

fully, gracioully and i weedy, movct'n it to 
chooic the way of ! 

re to take the Glory of actual t 
Men, from God. and either give it f xm 

their Idol of Frc:-ws!l 9 or make it barer ol the 






BOOK I. [28 ] CHAP. IK 

Glory of Regeneration with God, which Glory 
God will not give to another, but referve whol- 
ly to Himfelf : for all Men, in the point and mo- 
ment of Regeneration, are like unto Lazarus id. 
the Grave, to whom God by commanding, 
himtoarife, gave Life and Power to arifeoui 
of the Gtave where he lay dead and rotting. 

7. As to the fifth Propofition, We muftaiftin- 
guifli the Work of Regeneration from th~ Pre- 
paration and Difpofition of the Man to be Re- 
generat, whereby he is made more capable of 
Regeneration to be brought in him : for, the 
material Difpofition of him, fitting him for Re- 
generation, is neither a part nor a degree of Re- 
generation ; for, albeit the Lord be not bound 
to thefe preparatory Difpofitions, yet He will 
have Man bound to make ufe of thefe external 
Means which may prepare him, becaufo by the 
ufe of external Means (fuch as are, Hearing of 
the Word,Catechifing & Conference,^.) a Man 
may be brought more near unto Regeneration, 
as Chrift doth teach us by His fpeech to that 
Pharifee, who was inftrucled in the Law and 
anfwered difcreetly unto Chrift ; Thou art not far 
(faith he ) from the Kingdom of God, Mark 12. 24, 
This preparatory Difpofition, in order unto Re- <x 
generation^ like unto the drying Timber to make 
it fooner take Fire, when it iscaften into it. For, 
drynefs in the Timber, is neither a part nor a 
degree of kindling or inflammation of it; but on- 
ly a preparation of the Timber to receive inflam- 



I [ 19 ) ttAf. IH. 

1 ire ilull be fee to u, oc it 1 
l long time after, hi d 
S4j .vill Jc 
.renewed, hadi a natural 
Idd hear monpr 

turc.tobe iaforme ateclufui 

* iicn He plcafc: make u 

Wherefore, w! 
foc\ cr in 1 ig of die Gofpel, arc charg- 

1 to Repent, 
I lnlt, or Turn unto G mmand 

1 toufcall: SAnfewbotby they 

of the Duty required; an J of 
:hercunto; in (be 
of which is, they may meet with 

fur mmon Operations and effects of Go 

may be foui >, hut 

tto follow chel irtory 

1 for Com cr- 
k1 and Ma 
i guilty of of die 1 tri- 

ll, 
6fv ft the holy M 

i. 
. 

ibilicy k> Ik 
himfe] inhiso 

Pa: 



BOOK I [ 30 ] CHAP. «L 

Parts, and pofiible Righteoufnefs of his own 
Works, and fleeth toChrift offered in theGofpel* 
that in Chrift alone he may have true Wiiclom, 
Righteoufnefs, San&ification, and Redemption ; 
and doth with full purpofe of Heart conlecrat 
himfelf, and endeavour,. in the ft rength of Chrift, 
to ferve God acceptably all the days ofhis Life. 

For the ground of this Defcription, Wc have 
the words of the Apoftle, Philip. 3. 3. Where 
putting a difference between the true People of 
God, and the counterfit, he faith, We are the 
Qircumcifion who worjhip God in the Spirit ', and re* 
Joyce in Jefus Chrift \ and have no confidence in the 
flejh . In which Defcription of the regenerat 
Man, the Apoftle firft points forth uatous three 
fpecial Operations of the Spirit of Regeneration, 
then three duties of the Man regenerate. 

The firft Operation of the Spirit of God, the 
only Circumcifer of the Heart, is the humbling 
of the Man in the fenfe of his Sin by the Doc- 
trine of the Law, and cutting ofFall his confi* 
i^ncQ in his own Worth, Wit, Free-will and 
Strength to help himfelf. So that the Man hath 
no confidence in the flefh. 

The fecond Operation, is the infufion of Sa- 
ving Faith, making the Man humbled to cloie 
With Chrift in the Covenant of Reconcliation, 
and to reft upon Him asthc only and fufficient 
Remedy of Sin and Mifery ,- ib that Chrift be- 
cometh to him tiie ground of rejoycing and glo* 
fiation* 

The 



BOOK L [ Ji ] CHIP, Ilf. 

TWc third Operation, is the ■pftiiriflg & cnabl. 
big c Chrift, >ur new 

Obedience. lip God in the Spirit. 

the three Duties of the Man rc^encrat, 
The tirtlis, to follow the leading of the Spine 
in the point of more .1 

Ixrforc ( 1 the 1 his own in- 

fufficieoi i efllCWing of all leaning on bii 

Works, or anv 

thing clfc bcfidc Chnlt ; lie mull have ** c <mji- 

JetKC in tbefle 

Th is to grow in t!ie ctlima- 

jbteoufii . i hilnefs of all 

Graces to be let' th to thelklie\ n:>ly- 

and comforting himlelfin 

I ift againft all Difficulties , Ti 

muff R in Jr/ns ( 

irdDu: maniai 

in the coir . ;w Ob 

in ill l 

fcart; he be a H'orllvper 

lad Thing hold ;n forth in the Apo- 
rds, which is the 

z of the Man I circuma- 

Tci in H 1 the conflam 1 

iihcfi ... 

ichoftl tnceaoot 

be foood ia o«r 
'Jod in 
:; but, let t! ^s be made u 

<? 



BOOK I. [ $z ] CHAP. III. 

to extinguifti and abolifh all confidence in our 
own Parts and Righteoufnefs, and that our day- 
ly Failings may humble us and cut us off from 
all confidence in the Flefh. 

But let not thefe Failings fo difcourage us, as 
to hinder us to put confidence inChrift; but by 
the contrair, the lefs ground of Confidence we 
find in ourieives, let us railefo much higher the 
eftimation ofRemiffion of Sin and imputation of 
Chrift's Righteouihefs.and ftirup our felves by 
Faith to draw more Strength' and Ability out of 
Chriftfor enabling us to walk more HoliJy and 
Righteoufly before God ; and having fled to 
Chrift and comforted our felves in him let us 
not turn His Grace into Wantonnefs ; but the 
more we believe the Grace of Jefus Chnft, let 
us flrive, in His ftrength, fo much the more to 
glorifie God in new Obedience: And in the circle 
of thefe three Duties, let us wind our felves up 
flairs toward Heaven; for, God hath promifed^ 
thatfucli as wait on the Lord, Jh all renew their 
ftrength they jkall mount up with wings as Eagles* 
they Jhall run and not le weary, they flail walk and 
not faint , Kaiah 40. 31. 

In the conjun&ion of thefe three Duties, the 
Evidence of Regeneration is found. If thereebe 
not a fincere endeavour after all thefe three Duties, 
the Evidence of Regeneration is by fo much 
darkned/ and ihoit for Probation : for, it is not 
fufficient to prove a Man regenenir, that he is 
driven from all confidence in his cwnRightccuf- 



! 



BOOK f [ |j CHAP 

and filled with the Icnlc of J defer- 



red Wrath, b*cautc a Man that luch do I 

than thu; pcrilli - »ndir 

W,/j th <Jon- 

hurdem l the foil 1, but did 

bek Mercy and Pardon. Neither is it luffi- 

cicnt to boaft or Acquaintance with ( hnft, an«i 

| a Him, bo nany dd 

>rJ f who neither renounce their con- 

. ihip 

liod »:i Spin: 

11. Mrf Lirii 

/brf fjf/rr tmto tlx KingAom of God. risit 

icnt to id the WorQiipti Ood in 

hothtuk tobejufti 
their 

id [ptncua 

- :i the i S'°* 

•J ID lll> I Wll 

i >dwas cr unto him 

had, 
Ijikc . Go J, 

am not hkc ( lJ*l- 

irncdcohi! 
that 

Ctopr fcnrCfl 

rat, to caafi v 

( 
attain An that profc: 

i 



BOOK I. [ 34 ] CHAP. DI; 

fclves-Chriftians, who think ca be juftificd by *ha- 
Merits of their own and other Saints Doings ani 
Sufferings, anddodifdainfully IcofF and mock at 
the Dadfrine of the imputed Righteoufneft of 
Cbrift ; how many are they aifo,who think their 
bygone Sins may be wallien a way, and be record 
penced by their purpofe to amend their Life in 
time to come? How many are they, who, being 
willingly ignorant of the Righteoufnsfs of God, 
which is of Faith in Jefus Chrift, go about to c* 
ftablifh their own Righteoufhefs as the Jews did > 
Rom. 10. 3. 

And how few are they who follow the Example 
of the Apoftle, who carefully ferved God in Spirit 
andTruth,but did not lean to his own Righteoufc 
nefs, but fought more and more to be found in 
Chrift, not having his own Righteoufhefs, which 
behoved to be made up of his imperfed: Obedi- 
ence of the Law, but that Righteoufnefs which 
is by Faith in Jefus Chrift ? Phil. 3. 9. 

But that Man, who daily in the ienfeof his fin- 
fulhcfs and poverty fleeth unto Jefus Chrift, 
that he may be Juftified by His Righteoufnefs, 
and endeavoureth by Faith in Him to bring forth 
the Fruits of new Obedience, and doth not put 
confidence in theft his Works when he hath done 
them, but rcjoiceth in Jefus Chrift the Fountain 
of Holinefs and Bleilednefs : That Man ( I fay) 
undoubtedly is rcgenerat, and a new Creature, 
for fo doeh the Apoftle defcribe hwn, Phil. 3. 3. 

CHAP. 



BOO K L [ Jf ] CHAP. Ilf. 

C H A \\ IV. 

file* ; W in f/*ci*L if the C */ Reiemf,- 

fel thereof. 

Bliog of the Sic! | of the 
CMC co . right 

rc- 
icvsac ne mca know* 

lcJ$ >c opened up. 

i. A tUiuc Covenant vvc call, a ( \ or 

rty 
Cou&u 
the eternal fly 

fHirpurpofc) there arc'I hr(x\ 1 he I . 
1$, the Covenant paft between 

U Qffid I OflCU of th v. 

j Scoon Covenant of Works, made 

laJucJ with all rut 

ftO kztj ir. (b i ll.mj ro 

tbc cow 

ren God and ChtJdiei 

)thcC 

itter, we rnufl y 

ons of die 



BOOK I. I 3 CHAP. IV. 

time it is taken for the Contract and Agreement 
of Selling and Buytng-back to eternal Saivation, 
of loft Man, looked upon as in the (late of Sin 
and Mifer v. In which fenfe, we are faid to be 
bought by Chrift, both Souls and Bodies, i Cor. 
6. 19, xo. 21? are not your own; for ye are bought 
with a Price : therefore glorifie God in your Body, and 
in your Spirit, which are GocTs. And this may be 
called Redemption by Paclion and agreed Bargain. 
2,. Sometime Redemption is taken for the paying 
of the Price agreed upon.- In which fenfe, Chrift 
is faid to have redeemed us, by fuffering of the 
Puniiliment due to us, and ranfoming of us, Gal. 
3. 13. Chrift hath redeemed us from the Curfe of 
tie Law, being made a Curfe for us. 3 . Sometime 
Redemption is taken for the begun application of 
the Benefits purchafed in the Covenant by the 
Price payed , Ephef. 1 . 7. In whom we have Redemp- 
tion through His B/ood, even the RemiJJion of Sins, 
according to the riches of His Grace. 4. Sometime 
Redemption is taken for thepcrfed: and full pot 
fehion of all the Benefits agreed upon between 
the Father nd Chrift HisSon the Mediator. In 
which feme, we are faid to befealedwith the hc- 
ly Spirit of Promife, which is the earneft of our In- 
heritance, until the Redemption of the purchafvd 
Toffeffion. Ephef 1. 14. and EpheC 4. 30. it is faid, 
Grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are 
fe ale d unto the day of Redemption ; which is the day 
of Judgement, when Chrift fliall put us in full 

'• pol- 



>OK I ; ] 

all th< 
cJu 

i 
and Quill 

out 

1 - 

ok 
up 

■ 

nu- 
nc the hun 

and for cli 
kcthc ( 
to J fGod,a 

c Son v 



BOOK I. [ 38 ] CHAR TV. 

and fovcraign Power according to His own Plea- 
fure to difpole of Men,looked upon as lying before 
God (to Whom all Things are prefent) in Sin and 
Death, drawn on by Mans own deferring, and 
yet for the Glory of His Grace refolving to fave 
theEledr, fo as His Juftice ihal 1 be fatisfied for 
them, in and by the fecond Perfon of the Trinity, 
the co-eternal and co-effential Son of the Father. 

4. This Covenant of Redemption then maybe 
tli 11 s d eferibad . It is a Bar gain, agreed upon between 
the Father and the Son defigned a Mediator, concern- 
ing the Elecl (lying with the refl of Mankind in the fl ate 
hj Sin and Death, procured by their own Merit) wifely 
and powerfully to be Converted, Sanclified and Saved, 
for the Son of Go£ s Satisfaction and Obedience (tn our 
Nature to be dffumed by Him) to be given in due 
time to the Father ,even unto the Death of the Qrofi, 

In this Bargain or Agreement the Scripture Im- 
ported! clearly , a Selling and a Buying of the Eledt, 
Acls 20. 28. Feed the Church of God, which He hath 
p ur chafed by His cwn Blood, 1 Cor. 6. 20. Te are 
bought with a Trice, and 1 Fet. 1.18. The Seller 
of the Eled, is God; the Buyer, is God Incarnat ; 
the Ferfons bought, are the Church of the Eled ; 
the Trice, is the Blood of God, to wit, the Blood 
6f Chrift, who is God and Man in one Perfon. •• 

This Covenant of Redemption, is in effe<9: one 
with the sternal Decree of Redemption, wherein 
the Salvation of the Eleft, and the way how it 
ftall be brought about is fixed, in thePurpofeof 
God 5 Who worketh all things accordftig t6 the 

Goun- 



»/V ▼* ~' ^ 7 *^ If j 



, S/ ^Av/V ^ 



BOOK ,/ J CHA* 

■ < .vii u ikJ. w 

,"V/. t ivu 
A 

,(* CO Dl'UKjlltll 

C2>CT U: 
crxlni hcCWcvn tiK 



and prekippcxlc a formu the 

Partita, buying .md v 

.on* relating t< 
rcmat I>ocra 
die ( oroBtnr 

;>rdbnt*Uw ofliii 

cj«, i to as the He 

^v hwreitt the I ioc 

r . 

■ik, ■*/'■' 



BOOKI. [40] CHARIVv 

fery by Blood, {hewing that no Remiffidn of Sfti 
could be granted by Jtiftice, without lhediqg of 
Blood, and Chrift undertook to pay the Price, 
and bath payed it. 

Again tlie Inheritance which the Ele<3: have 
promifed unto them is called a Pure bafe, import- 
ing, that the Difponcr of the inheritance to the E- 
ledt, muft have a fufficient Price for it, and that 
the Redeemer hath accepted the Condition and 
laid down the Price craved for it, Ephef. 1. 14. 
and fo bought back loft Heaven and forfeited 
Bleflednefs to fo many Sinners, who otherways 
for Sin, might juftly have been excluded and de- 
barred therefrom for ever. 

A third Expreflion is hold en forth* ^&io, 
x8. wherein God Difponer and God' Redeemer, 
are agreed, that the El ed: fhall gorfree for God 
the Redeemers obedience unto the Death, who 
hath now bought them with -His Blood- 

A fourth Expreffion is in plain Terms fet down 
by Paul, 1 Or. 6.20. Te are hugbtmth a Price: 
God the Difponer Selleth, and God. the Redeem- 
er Buyeth the Eled: to bb His Conqueft, both 
Body and Spirit. And Peter more particularly ex- 
preflcth the Price of Redemptio|iagreed upon to 
be not Gold or Silver, but the Biopd of the Mt- 
jfliator Chrift, the innocent Lamb of God,ilain in 
typical Prefigurations from the beginning of the 
Wprk!,and flain in real perfc^manceinthefufeefs 
of time. 1 Pet. 1. 18. 19. 26. zi. \ 

A fifth Expteffion is, tha£ of pUfckotd Jefus" in 

' the 



BOOK I { .}i ] ( H \P. IV. 

chcinllicution i ncnt o: *cr, 

. 

1 1c \grcaaent bctvwctn the Pcilccmcr •& 

tic thde w \ - 

left, (hall Iuyc El *c- 

-oicfs Ran I he 

m, and i 
the ^acrament < ;r. 

lie Second i 

Ti of 
R I i oil 

>r dchgn 
jn 1 Styles a> en to ( 

the procuring ol a 
Ktlution between * 

ioctrctcx 

Juilicx, in »; Reconciliation mi " j iU -o on ) for 
paving a r > mpcni.itory [Vice, L'.iiii. ictit c > Utis- 

\¥lt', 0^x1 ilK.ifJl.ii //;:' Mftfl ( * v / { . s.i'jC 



BOOK I, [ 4 x ] CHAP. JV. 

19. 24. Where He is called a Redeemer, a nete 
Kinfman, who before His Incarnation had o- 
bliged Himfelf to take on humane Nature, and 
to pay the Price of Redemption (represented by 
flain Sacrifices) for the Elect BisKinfmen. 

A third Title is held out in that He is called 
a Surety of a better Covenant, Heb. 7. xx. Where- 
by is imported, chat God utfould not pafs a Co- 
venant of Grace and Reconciliation to Mea, ex- 
cept He had a good Surety who would airfwi* 
for the Debt of the Party reconciled, and would 
undertake to make the Reconciled (land to his Co- 
venant. And Chrift' undertook the Suretyfhip, 
and To hath procured and eftablifhed this Cove- 
nant of Grace, much better then the Covenant of 
of Works, and better then the old Covenant of 
Grace with Ifrael,*$ they made ufe of k» This 
neceftarily imports a Covenant between Hifeft 
and the Fathers Juftice, to whom He becowicth 
>%rety for us .* for, what is Suretifhip, buca vo- 
luntary transferring of anothers Debt upon chfc 
Surety, obliging to pay the Debt for which he 
engageth as Surety? 

A fourth Title given to Chrift, is, that He is 
a Reconciliation by way of permutation; the Atone- 
ment, Rom. 5 . 1 1 . We have by Chrift- received t^e 
-Atonement, that is, that which hath paSifkdthe 
Fathers Juftice and reconciled Him to us, -i&mtide 
over in a Gift unco us; for, by Chrift s procure- 
ment we have God made ours;& Chrift pacifying 
<5od, put, as it were in Q$t Bofsmi : &>?> God 



book i [ 4 h ( if u\ rv. 

rig fold trs ft, by r 

or ows. Htr hath co<n<: over ro tl i 
.1 given ns< rhc Rccon 

the AtoncmriTfro in \grce- 

ment m a»uf ( 

for ( 

ivcn roChrrtl, is 
I 

iffcd, nd 
alfo for the 
I Pro- 

I Jufttc* 

trha 

- 

rcjuirv 

I 
i jtzA htfor: 

TVJS 

1 bout the 

rion tc 



BOOKI. { 44 ] CHAP. IV. 

God were all His Works from the Beginning, Aft s 15. 
18. And whatfoever God doth in time, He doth 
it according to the eternal Counfcl of His own 
Wi\\,Ephef. 1. 9. Now, Chrift the eternal Son of 
God, being made Man, laid down His Life for 
His flieep. The Son of Man goeth, as it was deter- 
mined, but wo unto that Man by whom He is betray- 
ed, Luke zx. 1%. And whatfoever Chrift fuffered 
was by the determined counfel of God, Acts z. 
.Z3. And God the Son, before He was incarnat, 
declares the Decree of the Kingdom proinued 
unto Him by the Father, and of the Vi&ories 
which He fhouldhave over all His Enemies, and 
of the Felicity & Multitude of the Subjects of His 
Kingdom, that fhould believe in Him, FfaL z.j. 
I will declare the Decree, faith He ; prefuppofing 
therefore the Decree of God, offending His eter- 
nal Son into the World, to become a Man and to 
ttiffer, and thereafter to Reign for ever, we muft 
alfo necefiarily prefuppofethe Content of the Son, 
making Padtion with theFather & the Spirit fixing 
the Decree and Agreement about the whole way 
of Redemption, to be brought about in time; for 
the fame Perfon, Chrift Jefus, who dwelt among 
Men in the dayfc of His Humiliation, Job, 1.14, 
Was with the Father from eternity ; and as</£y 
Him all things were made, which were made. Job. 1. 
z. 3. So without Him nothing was decreed which 
was decreed, Prov. 8. %p to 31. which alfo is 
manifeft in the Apoftles words, z Tim 1. cy.He 
favedus, and called us with an holy Calling, not ac- 

cor? 



; 1 [ .j? ] CHAP. IV- 

cfirdt*^ to vur Works, h' cording to Ih% #** 
Pnrfojt sad i ./. ^nc* tu tn Chrt : 

rid, the 
I *: • 

:hc price agreed ujxjti ; 
u*e to be £i\en in ume to the Redeem- 
ed b is givtti from Eternity unto 
( hrii c. Alio, / 
were eled I hnit, un: 
\ition and tint ritual l> 
were prcdeftmatto th rion o< v 

r. 1. 18,19,10. We are Re- 
deemed not with Gold or Silver, bur precious 
Blood of < *howai predelltn.it higftn tie /• 
"'"& rfth* World. Whereby it 1 that the 
I the I at 

ach and Rcliirroaion, and 
alio: ings belonging to th 

X. 

mf. 

rof the 1 ivcr 

■ 
hoi 
l#, I ft of 

• 

lies, 
1 Co* 

and the Son the R<; 



B OOS I. [ 4<S J CEUp. IV> 

ftifying and Siring fuch as believe^ in the Mejfiab 
by an expiatory Sacrifice, to be offered intheful- 
nefsof time, for the Redeemed ; fo alfo they were 
Prefigurations, Predictions, Prophecies %&d Pled- 
ges, of the Redeemer's paying of the promifed 
Price of Redemption. And this Agreed-upon-pricc 
(becaufe of the PerfeiSions of the Parties Contra- 
&ers, the Father and the Son) was holden and 
efteemed as good as payed, from the beginning 
of the World ; and the Agreed-upoa-beiiefits pur- 
chased thereby, to wit, Grace and Glory, were 
cfFe&ually beftowed on the Faithful before 
Chrift's Incarnation, as the Ffalmijl teftjfies. Pfal. 
84. 11. The Lord, faith he, is a Sun axd ' a Shield, 
the LQrd will give Grace and Glory, and m good thing 
will He withhold from them that walk uprightly 5 
and, Pfal. 73. 24. Thou /halt guide we with Thy 
Counfel, and afterward receive me into GUry ; aact 
that becaufe the promifed Price of Redemption 
was of no lefs worth, to give Righteoufnefs and 
Life eteraal to Believers in the Meffiah to come, 
than the Price now payed is now of worth to give 
for it,Righteoufnefs and Life eternal, to thefe that 
believe in the Meffiah now come, Jefus Chrift in- 
ra&rat And this Donation of faving Graces, as 
Rcnxiilion of Sin, and carrying on to Life eternal, 
\ras fealed unto Believers in the Covenant of Re- 
conciliation, by the appointed Sacraments of Cir- 
r ;ii<a£on and die pafchal Lamb. 

He 



BOOK L [ 4- ] I H AR 

THe hfth L>u:cfK | Cofcnaru |*tt be- 

en* Far 
be mcanu ii. Chnllnovr locariM 

dungs which the Father and Hiui- 

and ch. ,*>- 

ken in the Old Tcrtameiu. about (he talwtiou 

the Eltdt, and the I Vice of : jo, 

nous to be ixrrormcvi <»n cither 

I »t were of new. doth repeat aiui 

renew the I 10c, w 

tucca die Father and Himlclf, Ix-forc Ho waft 
for L*.: eaking £ and 

lc was about T* r$ 

old. He la ;l ><r wf, r/uf / m*^ / 

RwhHcis f in.. efoncs 

A%c arid Surety tor Sinn rcthe 

Fat. he Baptized for them wich thcBapci 

Uflic^jon. and to fiilh! all Rjghreouliic 
wtf agreed upon before, vafk the 

* And admit the f and- 

Payment, a* '. 17M : I*, 
trtm M.:tflf,layn: ;!/Wyir 






» 

thm \r tht*t 
tbst : 

thac ail r 1 rhc K.. 

.illcr, 
W«ild f thai Hcraight fvilhuha: 



BOoK'l- t 48 ] CHAP. Bfa 

fent Him to do and fuffer, which He calls His 
Work that He was about. And more fpecially He 
Jhews the Agreement part between the Father and 
Him before He came into the World, concerning 
His Incarnation, and the difcharge of His Media- 
tory Office, and His Power to give eternal*Lifc 
to thofe that believe in Him: For the Father fent 
Him to be Incarnat, Verfle 37. and that He with 
the Father might give eternal Life to whomfloevet 
He will y and might quicken the Dead, Verfl 21. and 
that He might exercife Judgement, Authority was 
given to Him as the Son of Man, l r erf 27. Yea, 
He fheweth, that it was agreed upon between the 
Father and Him, about all the Do&rine which 
He fhould teach, fvh. 8. 26. I /peak to the World 
thefe Things which I have heard of Him; and He 
ilaeweth that they were agreed about the Price 
of Redemption of the Ele<5,and about His Relur- 
rection from the Dead, and that His Death did 
fully fatisfie the Father, Job. 10 ij. As the Father 
knoweth /tie, even fo know like Father ■; and I lay 
down MyLifefortheSbeep&nd Verfl. 17. therefore 
doth the Father love Me, becaufe Hay down My 
Life that I might take it again ; and Verf, iz.this 
Commandment have I received cfl the Father. And, I 
Luke 24. 2 y. He propones in fhort the ftim n>i" 
the Covenant paft between the Father and Him- 
felf, fpeaking to thetvvoDifciples going to Emails; 
Fools and flow of Heart, to ielieze all that the Pro- 
phets have fpoken, ought riot Qhrifl to have fluff e red 
thefe Things, and to enter in His own Glory . but 

mod 



IOK I [ .}• CH I r 

cliche whole >■' 
calleth i 

tmmt pail bcti I iimi 

. 

of. 

che 
! th<: 
( 

I 

I ou t 

• 
I I 

; :mrch c 

I 

Hun, an 

tcrriii they 
( .;nll. I 

' >cath o: the ( 

d no mo: 

- 
;^<^r» die 



BOOK i. [ so ] CHAP. W. 

have more Certainty of their own Salvation, then 
they have of the Certainty and (lability of their 
own fickle Mind and Will : and fo no more Cer- 
tainty of their oWn Salvation, then of their own 
Perdition. The Order we fhall keep in fpeaking 
of the Articles of the Covenant of Redemption, 
fliall be this. 

TheFirft Article, fliall be of the Pcrfons Re- 
deemed. 

The Second Article, fliall be of the Price of 
Redemption to be payed by Chrift in the fulnefs 
of time. 

The Third Article, fliall be about the Gifts 
and Benefits purchafed for, and to be given un- 
to, the perfons Redeemed. 

The Fourth Article of this Covenant of Re- 
demption, pad between the Father and the Son, 
fliall be of the Means and Ways whereby the 
Gifts and Benefits purchafed, may be wifely, or- 
derly and effectually applyed,to the Redeemed. 

In ranking of thefe Articles, we do not pre- 
fuppofe a priority of one of them before another 
Jn order of Nature or Time; but we choofe to 
fpeak of them in order of Doctrine, for our more 
eafie underftanding of the Matter. 

For, the Covenant of Redemption pad between 
the Father and the Son, is by way of an eternal 
Decree of the Trinity, comprehending all and 
whatsoever belongeth to Redemption. In the de- 
cerning of which Decree, there is notaFirfl: nor 
aLaft, but a joint purpofe of God to bring about 

and 



OOK I. [ S i ) ( H.U\ IV 

Qflppllfli ail the 1 Luvls an 



T. 






'Off. 

I 



who 
; Lime 

i chat ol 
U did forekfttm 
fred v — 

r vAtff ! prede,: 

<alled\ J*J : : fi J*JI' 

jwd wkoi 

and 

ljpok -I rhcy ai 

I that iiod hath ap- 
n to a certain \ nd, to wil 

Vm rhcy 

GckI in 

them 

^g with thci 
iition h icnt, 

.capers of - 
D 



c/v 



BOOK I. [ yx ] CHAP. IV. 

nal Salvation. They are called Foreknown and 
written in the Book of Life, in regard God hath 
comprehended them in His fpecial Love, nolefs 
diftituftly and unchangeably, then if He had 
their Names written in a Catalogue, or Book; 
And they are called given unto Chrift, in regard 
the redeeming of them, and bringing them to 
Life, is committed to Chrift. But by whatfocver 
Name they are defigned, the Perfons Redeemed 
are ftiil the fame. 

z. Bat whereas the Elect, given to Chrift, are 
called the Redeemed, it prefuppofeth, that they 
were confidered and looked upon as now fallen 
by their own fault, and lying by their own Merit 
in Sin and Mifery, Enemies to God, and altogether 
unable to help themfelves. For, this much doth 
the notion of Redemption, or Buying back again 
import: and that it is fo, is clear, becaufe the 
Mercy of God, the Grace of God, the Good-will 
of God, is put in Scripture for the only Motive 
and impulfive Caufeof Redemption, Ephef. i. 7, 
8,9. In whom we have Redemption through His 
Blood, even the forgivenefs of Sins according to the 
riches of His Grace, wherein he hath abounded to- 
ward w in all Wifdom and Prudence, having made 
known unto us the Myftery of His Will according Po 
His good pie afure, which Hehadpurpofedin Himfelf. 

3. The Scripture ihevveth us that there is an 
innumerable Multitude of Redeemed Perfons,and 
a fort of univerjality of them extended unto all 

Na. 



BOOK i. [ji ] r iv. 

\ tad Ages and (b thac 

RcAemf 
( • • Blood \ .ily 

N fflc of a World 

J. 1 6. to be * thac Rcpr 

■ 
the truth of ihis Mjtccr, the Redeemed do 
r worllnping Chrifl 

w waft j 

ettiu to 6. 

' a ill ha . fa\c, 

;0- 

aid 

ftiouIJ be I : 1:1 of Whom many WCfC n 

J in the many 

1 \\\ (hoi 
ming till l 
Rcconci the numbers 

I^e& (hould be 

fa 00 place of S 

•A, or eve 
1 ■ 

!) 1 



BOOK I. [ 54 ] CHAP. IV 

Man without exception ; but by the contrary, it 
is fure from Scripture, that Chrift hath merited 
and procured Salvation for All them for whom He 
entered Himfelf Surety, their SinsonXy were laid 
on Chrift, and in Him condemned, fatisficd for, 
and expiat, If a. 53. for thefe, and in their place 
He offered Himfelf to fatisfie Juftice,for them He 
Prayed/few only He Juftifieth andGlorifieth:for 
the Sentence of the Apoftle, .2 Cor. 5:. 15-. ftand- 
cth firm ; in Chrift All are Dead (to the Law) for 
whom and in whofe room Chrift did die. And 
therefore for thefe His People the Law is fatisficd, 
from thefe the Curfe is taken away, to them Hea- 
ven and all Things neceflary to Salvation arc 
purchafed, and fhall infallibly in due time, yea 
invincibly be applied. 

Chrift hath not Sandtified, Confecrat, and Per- 
fected All and Every one, Hel. 10. 14. only for 
His Sheep predeftinat, He laid down His Life, 
John 10.15,16,26. He did not buy withHisBlood 
A{1 and Every one, but His Church called out, 
and fevered from the World, Acts, 20. 28. He 
faveth not All and Every Man from their Sins, 
bin: His 011?* People only, to wit, whom He hath 
L^Ught with His Blood to be His own, Matth. 1. 
21. whom He hath ptrchafed to be His own pe- 
culiar, whom He doth purifie, and kindle with a 
fervent Defire to bring forth good Wovks.Tit . 2. 1 4. 

Such as Chrift hath Redeemed, He loveth 
them infinitly, and counted them dearer to Him 
then His Life, But many fhall be found to whom 

Chrift 



HOOK I [ f Ci IV. 

( hritl (hail fay, 1 never knew yon. to \vi: 
- 
They for wh« hath die 

glory againftall Condemnation ; but 
lli | 

rill never pur, 

ray 
i arc given CO Him our 
• n R orld will He Pra} and K. 

and willruifc then rnal Luc, fob. 17. 

d it from ( ,;(••.-> to 

ftfand Every Mo*! that He hath d 
dccrecvl torn 
eernal ncccfl&f Conversion a: 

\.i. Word 

m: stents u 

nd 

At * ludgem \c no! known them, 

1 for td - >urfc of biding the 

of Sah 

Mco in rl: k! 

:h the I i>. I thank thee, 

.;;;/ } indent, 
amdhdf} revealed t> 'r. 

i§r jo it fee me J g 

t Second Article. 

Anothe S of the ( tf 

»n concerning the Price of 1 
• . -I. ric Rfviirfcuicr 

4 



BOOK I. [ 56 ] CHAR IV 

accomplifhing the Work of Redemption, God 
would not have Silver or Gold, or any corrupti- 
ble Thing, 1 Pet, 1. 1 8. Herefufeth allranfome 
that can come from a meer Man, Pfal. 49. 8. But 
He would have His own co-eternal and only be- 
gotten Son to become a Man, to take on the Yoke 
of the Law, and to do all His Will, that He 
alone might Redeem theElecl:, who by Nature 
are under the Curfe of the Law. He would have 
Him,the Second Adam, to be obedient even to the 
Death of the Crofs, that by His Obedience many 
might be juftified, Rom. 5*. 19. 

This is clearly confirmed by the Apoftle,£&£io, 
^d^io.commenting uponthe.7 8L8Ferf.ofPf.40. 
In burnt Offerings and Sacrifices for Sin Thou haft had 
no pleafure, then faid Chrift coming into the World, 
Lo, I come {in the volumnof the Book it is written of 
Me)to do thy WillO God—by the which Will we arefau- 
ilified.by the offering up oftheBloodofJefus once for all. 

2. By Chrift's Obedience we underftand not 
only that which fome call His Aftive Obedience, 
nor that only which fbme call His Pajfive Obedi- 
ence : for, His Active and Paflive Obedience, are 
but two Notions of one thing; for, His Incarna- 
tion, Subje<£Hcn to the Law, and the whole 
Courfe of His Life was a continued Courfe of 
Suffering, and in all His Suffering He was a free 
and voluntary Agent, fulfilling ail which he had 
undertaken unto the Father, for making out the 
promiftd Price of Redemption, and accomplilh- 
ing what the Father had given Him Command 

to 



BOOK I. [ 57 ] CH AT. IV 

en to the Death of the 
( 

c of a Servant 
Aid run on till 

C end of 

lich He turfcred both aixi 

UoJ C the corapleai His formcr- 

: noc 
r us, or His only Suffering 
much from 
His I uonbcforcl iion and D, 

the high ree of His Obedience, w\ 

bought deliverance unto us, from Sm 

id wlicrx it unto 

cy and eternal IMeilr m Heaven, 

Death on the Crols complcating our 

have faid. that one drop of 
ficicnt to Redeem mo-. 

Me, it is but an m- 
nptural 
badfufieredall 
c time ath, it be! Him 

>. Lnke : ltbeh 

Hun no r more ,;c revju 

Rani! j agreed 

- 
ement He 

lis Life 

ght gOn 

ri sown He 



BOOK I. [ 5:8: ]. CHAP. IV. 

teftifie His Lave to the Eledt World, and riches 
of His Grace toward them to whom He would 
be merciful, by infli&ing no left Punifhment of 
Sin on the Mediator, His own dear Son ( taking 
upon Himfelf full fatisfadtion to Juftice for all the 
Sins of all the Eled: given unto Him to Redeem) 
then the Death both of His Body and Soul 
for a Seafon. 

And indeed it was futeablc to His holy and 
fbveraign Majefty, that for the Ranfome of fo 
many Thousands and Millions of damnable 
Sinners, and faving of them from everlafting Tor- 
ment of Body and Soul, no lefs Price fliould be 
payed by the Son of God, made Man and Surety 
for them, then His Sufferings both in His Body 
and Soul for a Seafon, as much as fhould be equi- 
valent to the due deferved Punifhment of them 
whom Pie fliould Redeem ; and it became the 
JulHce of the infinite Majefty offended, to be 
reconciled with fo many Rebels, and to bellow 
upon them Heaven and Eternal Bleiiednefs, for 
no k£ Price then the Sufferings of the eternal 
Son made Man. whofe Humiliation and volun- 
tary Obedience, even to the Death of the Grofs, 
was of infinite worth and value; and therefore He 
yieldeth Himfelf to the Sufferings agreed upon 
in the Covenant of Redemption both ia Body 
■and Soul. 

Of the $t<f-erlngs ofChrifl in His Soul. 

OUr Lords Sufferings in His Body did not 
fully fatisfie divine Juftice % i. Becaufe as 
God 



OKI. [ <9 ] CHAP. IV 

Cuk\ pu on the Law and ( 

C vfith us all 
and his Ibould ibU to Death both 

(which Cove bciog 

all Sinners became ol 
Death both of IV die Re- 

deemed behoved to be deliver. 
oF b the Redeemers Totting ol h in 

> much as fhould! 
Redemption. 
- 
eft no | r power of l Soul 

froc ; fo jufhec requited, that the Re 

:ng uuhe roomofth nod, 

lid feci dit force of tlv both in Body 

»il. 

can the Soul die, fcin^ it is, 
i nance ol le Immortal? 

Anf. The Death of the Soul is not. mail 
Things Death , al- 

:he ipi: :ude 

immort.i not :o b 

fubj. fort of Death, wl 

cfcparationof it from( uuonwich ( 

(iich Dcgre. 
t>e Death of the Sou I; 

ic Soul, not only doth not 
:h augment it and 

r. But, til of oij-I-otH 

•ever kv 



BOOK I. [60] CHAP. IV. 

Holinefs, wherewith it was endued in the firft 
infufion of it in the Body, and could never be fe- 
parated from the indiflblvable perfbnal Union 
with the fecond Perfon of the God-head afluming 
it, How could His Soul be fubjed: to any degrees 
of Death? 

Anf. Albeit the Coli-natural Holinefs of the 
Soul of Chrift could not be removed, nor the 
perfbnal Union of it be diflblved, no not when 
the Soul was feparated from the Body, yet. it was 
fubjed:, by drift's own confent, to be emptied 
of Strength-natural, to be deprived for a time of 
the clear nefs of vifion of its own Bleflednefs, and 
©f the quiet pofleffion of the formerly felt Peace, 
and of the fruition of Joy for a time, and fo iuf- 
fer an Ecclipfe of Light and Confblation, other- 
Wife fhining from His God-head ; and fo in thifc 
fort of fpiritual Death might undergo fome de- 
grees of fpiritual Death. 

The Degrees of the Suffering of ChrifFs Holy Soul. 

AMong the Degrees of the Death fufFered by 
Chrift in His Soul, we may number, firft, 
that habitual heavinefs of Spirit, which haunted 
Him all the days of His Life, as was foretold by 
If a. 53. 3. He was a Man of Sorrows, and acquain- 
ted with Grief We hear He weeped, but never 
that He laughed, and but very feldom that He 
rejoiced. 

x. He fuffered in fpecial, Sorrow ani Grief in 
the obfervation of the Ingratitude of them, for 

whom 



BOOK i [ Si ] ( u \ r iv 

ay down His bid 

Oi : m Him ■ I : *4 

\ //mmt. II 

lurdncfsof V ins, and rhc n 

and ttM i 

Iv Contumelies and detpitcful l 

Ril daily I 

( rriffleJ tfMnt. II . ;. 

1 
and albcic in them all, never tainted 

5 
paring the 

i nothing is nx 
bid i the fici k the Devil, and i 

; to Sin ; lly 

ifn Id the variet) li- 

hcrcuni 

* Imp 

I 

Bcgio- 

Imputai 



BOOK. I. [6z] CHAP. IV. 

binding Himlelf to bear their deferved Punifti- 
ment. 

Now when we fee that the vileft Sinners, as 
Liars, Thieves, Adulterers, cannot patiently hear 
themfelves called Liars or Thieves, nor bear the 
ihame of the vilenefs r whereof they are really 
guilty, with what fufferingof Soul? with what 
clouding of the Glory of His Holinefs, think we 
that our Lordiitook upon His Shoulders fuch a 
Dunghil of all Vilenefs, than which, nothing 
could more be unbefeeming His Holy Majefty ? 

6. Unto all the former Degrees of Suffering of 
His Soul, the Perplexity of His Thoughts fell 
on Him, with the Admiration and Aftonilhment 
of Soul, when the full Cup of Wrath was pre- 
fented unto Him, in fuch a terrible way,as made 
all the Powers of His Senfe and Reafon for a time 
to be at a (land. Which Suffering of His Soul, 
while theEvangelift is about to exprefs, he faith 
He began to be fore amazed, and alfo to be very 
heavy, and to exprds Himfelf in thefe Words, 
My Soul is exceeding forrowful unto Death. Mark 

14- 3 3> 34- 
Obj. But did not this aftonifhing Amazement 

of Chrift's Soul fpeak fome Imperfe&ion of the 

humane Nature? < 

Anf. It did no ways argus any Imperfe&ion 

or Inlake of San&ity in Him, but only a fin- 

lefs and kindly Infirmity, in regard of nacural 

Strength, in the clays of His Fleili ; for, the 

Mind of a Man, by any fudden and vehement 

Com- 



BOOK !. j ] IV 

tion arifmg born .1 terrible OS-ci, may 






wii *m 

SilXcourk may -for a wli: 
mxI. ind I 
While: all the Cogitations ofthc Mind fleeing 
together toconftilr, m i eooext 

then wmn intiant, m;ir flaiui a 

fit d. Job's rncmb aft oni died, 

<>rd, talcm ir Natur; aru 

common finlds tafirmuu >. became tike urn 
in all thiols 9m. Dnar/iioft ithc 

fight of an Arv.;:l. was i**r Sm, />.n 

ion^ 

A - . clue 

ftiou '.! Hioi, aid toM I 

I 
chinj 

«:nvcd 
in til id thcl igs ^rf/i 

lprdBtft 
i c prec$ncrt utntag Tron, b. 

i 
\rull in 
i 
• ecu Fort nip: an.' -. br 

:*rd, Chn* > 






BOOK I. [64] CHAR IV. 

to learn experimental Obedience hy thefe things 
which He fuffered, Heb. 5. 8. 

7. Another Degree of the differing of our 
LokTs Soul, is die Interruption, for a time, of 
thefenfibleuptaking and feeling of that quiet and 
peaceable Injoyment of the Felicity of the hu- 
mane Nature, given ( for the point of Right) un- 
to it in its perfonal Union with His God-head, 
in fofar, .that in the midft of many Difciples, 
Greeks and Jews looking on Him, the vehemency 
of His trouble did not differ Him to hide His per- 
turbation ; for, (Job. iz. 17.) ourLordcryed 
out, Now is My Soul troubled, and what Jh all I fay > 
and Mark. 14. 34. made Him declare His ex- 
ceeding Heaviness ; My Soul is exceedingforrow- 
ful unto Death. In which words he Infinuats, 
that to His Senk, Death was at hand ; yea, that 
inn© fmallmeafure, it had feafed on Him, and 
wrapped Him up in the forrows of Death, for 
the time, as in a Net of which He knew He could 
not be holden ftill- 

Obj. But did not this hudge heap of Miferies 
take away from the humane Nature, the Feli- 
city of its Union perfonally with his God-head ? 

Anf. It did indeed hide it for a time, and hin- 
der the fenfible feeling of it for a time, as it pas 
neceflary, in His deep differing ; but it did not 
take it away, nor yet ecclipfe it altogether ; for, 
as a corporal Inheritance hath a threefold Con- 
nexion with the Perfon owner thereof ;, foa fpi- 
ritual Inheritance hath a threefold Connexion 

with 



ROOK I \ V. IV. 

v of lawful 

of die fn- 
; co the 1j 

Oft ft | jfc of 

die I 

. the 
: : and llu 

ad not on' 
i unco \ 

pcrU d Union I poflcfi 

; 
I 



tion to look 



MY 



8. I \d the s God, 

n went on to tin 

1 






-oil inv 



BOOK h [ 66 ] CHAP. IT. 

Soul and Body, that out of all His Veins it drew 
and drove forth a bloody Sweat (the like where- 
of was never heard ) as when a Pot of Oyl, boy- 
ling up and running over by a Fire let under it, 
hath yet further the Flame increafed by the 
thralling of a fiery Mafs of hot Iron into it. 

Hence came fuch a wading and eating up of 
all His humane Strength, and emptying of His 
natural Abilities, fuch a down-throwing of His 
Mind, fuch a fainting and fwounding of His Joy, 
and fo heavy a Weight of Sorrow on Him, that 
not only He defired that fmall Comfort of His 
weak Difciples watching with Him a little, and 
milled of it, but alfo flood in need of an Angel 
to comfort him, Luke xx. 43. 

It is without ground, that fome of the Learned 
have denied the Caufeofthis Agony to be the 
drinking of the Cup of Wrath, holden forth to 
Him by the Father, faying, that the fight of it 
only, and of the peril He faw we were into, was 
the caufe of this heavy Exercifc : for, the Cup 
WaSr.ot only fhown unt» 8Km, and the hud'ge 
Wrath due to our Sin fee tofore Him, that He 
fhould fee it, and tremb!<§ at tbe Apprehenfion of 
the Danger we were in, but it was poured into 
Him, and not only on Him, that He for the 
Sins of His' Redeemed fliould fuffer it fenfibiy, 
and as it were drink it, that the bittemefs there- 
of might affect all the Powers of Soul and Body: 
for, the Scripture teftities,that toot only upon the 
Sight and Apprehenfion of this Wrath and Curfe 

com* 



.BOOK L ] CHA 

coming on Him, the holy humane Nature 

Holily abhor it, but ... ai He iubmiu 

receive ir, UpOQthc i 

Decree and A tl C COlCltf 

be pa Him, ar*J thai upon 

ul, and Blood) 

0/' 
Father's Wrath upon H 
confift wid 

I 

Him for, 

ing capital W 
ment on a condemned 1 



»'' 



n 



on 
tow ( 

fore it to bec 

. 

illeth forth amon.: 

i unto God, arc / :.uhcr ©I His Ho- 

towar 
Him ; 

. do always tc olciTcdt 

uc from another 

9. Among the Degrees of the 6 

may number not on 
turban 

:rturbatu 

E 



BOOK I. [ 98 ] CHAP. IV 

ly His fear ; for, His humane Nature was like 
unto ours in ail things except Sin, and was indeed 
feared when it Taw and felt the Wrath of God, 
left it ftiould havebeen fwallowed up by it, and 
of this Fear the Apoftle< He!?. 5. 7.) beareth 
witnefs, faying, Who in the days of His Fleflb, 
when He had offered up Prayers and Supplications , 
andflrong Crys and Tears, unto Him that was ah le 
to fave Him from Death,' and was heard in that 
He feared. 

Now, albeit this feemetlvthe faded pafiageof 
all His Sufferings, that He was feared for being 
fallowed up, yet this His feat is not to be won- 
cered at, noris it inconfitiant withHisHolineft; 
for when Chriit affumed our Nature ( as hath 
been faid ) He aflumed alfo all the common and 
fmlefs Infirmities, Paffions and Perturbations of 
b our Natnre : Now it is kindly that the Creature 
St the fight of an angry God fliould tremble; for, 
we read, that the Rocks and Mountains have 
trembled before God, when He did let forth His 
Terror ; and it is natural to Man, at the fight of 
a terrible Objed:, at the fight of a Peril and Evil 
coming upon him, but much more already come 
upon him (efpecially if the Evil and Peril be a- 
bcveail his natural Strength ) to tremble and 

r the woril ; and this becometh holy Nature 
very well to fear prcfent Death, Off-cutting, Per* 
ditionand Swallowing up in the Danger, >vhen God 
appeared angry ana Avas hading to be avenged 
on Sinners in the perfon.of their Surety, what 

could 



BOOK 

-;ather I 









• 



^/v 



' 













. 




I 








^Cll'C A 








• x. 








^ 




[ 







BOOK L [ 70 ] CHAP. IV. 

cut in a Holy way, that which He behoved to 
furfer : for, if on the one hand, Chrift had not 
been weakned, & emptied of all humane Strength 
inHisFlefh, He could not have been humbled 
enough for us, He could not have fuffered {b 
much, as Juftice did exaeffc for fatisfaftioafor us ; 
and on the other hand, if He had not Hood firm 
in Faith and Love toward God's Glory and our 
Salvation, He could not have fa tisfied Juftice, 
nor been ftill the innocent and fpotlefs Lamb of 
God, nor have perfe&ed the expiatory Sacrifice 
for us. 

Olj. But was He not tempted to doubt by 
Satan? 

Anf. We grant that He was indeed tempted by 
Satan to doubt, yea we iliall not {band to grant 
that He was tempted to Defperatipn ; but we 
altogether deny, that He was tainted with Sin 
by temptation in the lead degree : for, the Scrip- 
ture faith, He was tempted in all things like 
unto us, but yet without Sin in Him, or yielding 
in any fort to any Temptation, And feeing by 
the Evangelift, Matth. 4. we underfland, that 
He was tempted in the Wildernefs by the Devil, 
unto the moft horrible Sins that Satan could devife , 
and yet wa^ not flamed or polluted in the lead 
Degree, with the lead meafure of yielding to the 
finfur Temptations ; we need notftand to grant, 
that He might be tempted, or that He was tempt- 
ed unto Doubting and Defperaticn ; for this was 
among the topft notable and prime temptations, 

where- 



OOKI. , ] CI 

irhcrcby Satn ulli- 

God, very God ai . one 

l knew 
Ht I otic th Scm i' 

■ I 
an all the 

not be 

tot hn6il Nature in to, tare nuj app 

and be polluted: lint the matter was not lb with 

i of Glo: 
our : 
- in a. winch being : 

foul: b 
I 
f*rr and pu 

-ever it be troubled a:ui 
;urc and frcco 

But at lead, was there not a Ccr. 
cur nth, and the R on 

I Conflict of ( 
mancna ich the bur. 

t andWreftling ol 
. tation to doubti 
ng doth DC I rguc the Inrirnv : 

lgcl \vhoi> 

J in God was 

ot argue 

the 

ttrtuoai of 



BQOKI. [72-] CHAR IV. 

an Adverfary, who being repulfed and call down, 
doth not at firft leave the field, but rifeth up a- 
gain,infifts and preflethon, fo long as it pleafeth 
the mod powerful party to differ the Adverfary 
to make oppofitioh. 

Ohj. Butyou muft grant, that in the Conflict 
of Chrift's humane natural Strength, with the Af- 
fliction and burden of the Punifhment laid upon 
Him by the Father, He was overcome, and fuc- 
cumbed and died. 

Anf. Yes indeed : but we mud put a difference 
between the Conflict of natural Strength with the 
burden of Affiidion, &the Conflid between Faith 
and a Temptation unto Sin ; in the Conflid of 
holy humane Nature inChrift, with the Punifh- 
ment of our Sins laid on Him, it was not a Sin 
to have His natural Strength over-powered, and 
to lye down under the Burden, and to lay down 
His Life and die; but it was a main part of His 
Obedience, it was the performance of His Promife 
and Undertaking, to yield Himfelf to Juflice, and 
to die for us, that we might be delivered from 
Death eternal. But in the wrcftling of His Faith 
with the Temptation unto Doubting, it had been 
a Sin to have yielded in the lead degree, and that 
which could not cpnfift with the perfed Holiness 
of the Mediator, Surety for Sinners. 

Ohj. But,did not the perplexity of His Thoughts 
and the anxiety of His Mind ; dimini{h fomething 
of the vigour and conftancy of His Faith? 

Anf. It did ditfrinift nothing of the vigour and 



COR 



BOOK I. i) 

a the he. 

mc Di 

■ • mo 

the i 
the uork 

ung urn 

1, or Uj>on 
gtv 
rca 

I 

i His h 



BOOK I. [74] CHAP. IV 

lets forth theConfeffion of His Perplexity: Pre* 

fently after this, He fubjoineth, ' Father, fave Me 
from this Hour ; wherein, behold ! holy Nature, 
trembling and Shrinking to fall into the Wrath of 
theFather/& according to the Principles of Holy 
Nature, teftifying the fimple Abhorrency of His 
Soul, from fiich an Evil as is the Wrath of God 
His Father, which had it not been for love to 
fave our Souls, He could not have yielded His 
humane Nature to endure, or bear it : Therefore 
He, confidering that we were but loft for ever, 
if He ihould not fuffer Wrath for us, He repeats 
the fum of the Covenant of Redemption agreed u- 
pon, But for this Caufe came I unto this Hour. And 
laft of all ft^ts up His Speech and Exercife in the 
triumphing Voice of victorious and untainted 
Faith, Father, glorify Thy Name; and here He reft- 
eth : Wherewith the Father is fo well pleafed, as 
that from Heaven He fpeaketh to the hearing of 
the Multitude Handing by, / have hoth glorified 
it, and will glorify it again. 

10. Among the deepeft Degrees of the Suffer- 
ing of Chrift in His Soul, we reckon thatDefer- 
,non, .whereof Chrift on the Crofs giveth an ac- 
count, crying out, My God, My God, why haft Thou 
ferfakenMe? By which Speech He doth not mean, 
that Mien the perfonal Union of the Natures was 
jm Him diflolved, nor yet that God had withdrawn 
His fuftaining Strength and Help from the hu- 
mane Nature, nor that the Love of the Father was 
taken off Him, nor that any point of the Perfe- 
ction 



BOOK I [ is ) A A P. IV 

■ of Ho 
trnc l l to ihw\i'. 

i, an J fth 
from ! ic Soul. 

• 

i 

he looked upon 
-Son of 
ways well pica 
room ot 



vrcrcboun 

us. 
n. '1 

• 
aras 6 
Hiftory o€ 

toexpou 
where* 
of tint horrible Gap, wasp >ored 

I 

in J Be 



BOOK I. [ 76 ] CHAP. IV 

therefore not without ground have Orthodox Di- 
vines taken in Chrift's Sufferings in His Soul,and 
the detaining of His Body in the Grave ( put in 
as the clofe and laft part of Chrift's Sufferings^ 
as the true Meaning of that Expreffion, He de- 
fended into Hell : Not only becaufe tliefe Pains 
which Chrift fuffered both in Body and Soul, were 
due to us in full meafure ; but alfo becaufe that 
which Chrift fuffered in the point of Torment 
and Vexation, was, in fome refped;, of the fame 
kind with the Torment of the Damned : for in the 
Punifliment of the Damned, we.muft neceflarily 
diftinguifh thefe Three Things, i. The perverfe 
Difpofition of the Mind of the Damned in their 
Sufferings, x- The duration and perpetuity of 
their Punifliment. And 3/ The Puniihment it 
feif, tormenting Soul and Body. The flrft Two 
are not of the eflence of Punifliment, albeit by 
accident they are turned into a Puniihment, for 
the Wickednefs, Vilenefs and Unworthinefs of 
the Damned, who neither will nor can fubmit 
themfelves to the Punifliment (and put the Cafe 
they iliould fubmit, are utterly unable to make 
Satisfaction for ever) do make them in a defperar, 
doleful Condition for ever, though obftinat Sin- 
ners do not apprehend nGr believe this, but go,pn 
-tcafuringup Wrath againil themfelves, plea- 
themfelves in their own Dreams,to rjieirown 
Perdition. Of thefe Three, the flrft Two 
hayc no place in Chrift: Not the Firft, be- 
:Iq willingly offered Himfelf a Sacrifice for 

out 



book I. - ] R iv. 

>on agreement, payed the i 
S 

«>lden in the So: f Death 

what 
i Kim ; mul H lien- 

[to be of infinii 
to our evcrlal: :ig. 

I then remaincth, which is tlie real 
Sic tor ; of Soul ami Bod 

ing made a Curfc for U to feel it lb in 

nee. And w!. 
hellil where Pain and Torment, and the 

Curfc with felt Wrath from (i 
11, till Jufl 

as certain, that Qui it 
by th irs of Death. 

rurc. that He could not be ho. rows 

of Death. . 

Q*efl. But what inters?!! ' 
in His bun both 

fo lliort anvl 
• 

i 

or. (w 

D 

- 



"I For t tli( 

# 



BOOK I. [ 78 ] CHAP. IV. 

only the humane Nature ; yet the principal Suk- 
jed: of Sufferings, both in a PhyficaL and Moral 
Senfc, is Chrift's Perfon, God and Man, from the 
Dignity whereof, the Worth and Excellency of 
all fort of Sufferings, the Merit and the Satisfy 
£tory Su fficiency of the Price, did flow. 

And let it be confidered alfo, that albeit 
Chrift, as God, in his God- head could not fuf- 
fer in a Phyfical Senlh ; yet, in a Moral Senle i 
He might fuffer, and did fuffer ; For, in as much 
as He, being in the Form of God, and without 
Robbery equal to God, did demit His perfon 
to afiiimc humane Nature, and empty Himfelf 
fo far as to hide His Glory, and take on the 
Shape of a Servant, andexpofe Himfelf willing- 
ly to all the Contradi&ion of Sinners which He 
was to meet with, and to all Railings, Revil- 
Ings, Contempt, Defpifings and Calumnies, fhall 
it feem nothing, and not enter in the count of 
our Lord's Payment for our Debt? 

Ohj. But, how could folow a down-throwing 
of the Son of Man, or of the humane Nature 
afTumed by Chrift, confift with the Majefty of 
the Perfon of the Son of God > 

AnJ. We mud diftinguifh m Chriftf thefe 
Things, which are proper to either of the two 
Natures, from thefe Things which arc afcribed 
to His Perfon, in refped of either of the Na- 
tures, or both the Natures ; for, Infirmity, Phy- 
fical Suffering, or Mortality, are proper to the 
humane Nature, The Glory of Power and Grace 

and 



BOOK r. [ -9 ] Cfi AP. IV. 

M:rcy, and fupcrcxccllclu Majefty, mi 
arc proper ro die Dcit 
fenngs of the humane Nature, are lb far from 

itngthe Glory of the divine > 
ritey do marufcrt the lame, and nuke ic appear 
morcclc For, by how much the hu 

is nxjJt*tJ, deprcfled, and depifedg 
fake, by ibmucli the Love of C 
and Man in one Peribn, toward Man, and 
i and Grace to Man 

iiofethac judicioufly look 
i Him. 

•ut (cing C Satisfaction for Sinner | 

doth nor any one pair ot His Doings 

"•nngs, but in the whole a.id intire 
n Pearl, and complcat Price of His whole O- 
% orn His Incarmnon, even to 

. how cometh ic to pa 
■jre the i nation of our bin 

xrd lb oft to I nd particularly 

toHisBloo 

A*J. cometh : . i. Ben 

Certainty and Verity of H I hum 

icy of differing, 

f all the Lev: tccs 

;ear unto 

thf entire 
of H 

Frofion ofHrs&ooJ; F< 

wT|, Wll 

irchyMan. : 



wtift X .i- 



BOOK I. [ 80 ] CHAP. IV; 

Sou], Drops of Blood fell down out of all His 
Body to the Earth. 3. Becaufe His Blood-fhed- 
ing and Death, was the laft A6t of compleating 
the Payment of the Ranfom to the Father for us, 
which Payment began in His humble Incarnation I 
and went on through all His Life, and was com- 
pleated in His Blood-ihed andDeath,whereofour 
Lord gave intimation on the Crofs, when He 
cryed as triumphantly victorious, It isfinifhed. 

The t/fe of this Article of the Covenant of Reel mption^ 

WE have at ibme length fpokeli of the 
Price of Redemption, and of Chriit's 
defraying of the Debt by His Paiiion. 1. That 
hereby the Merit of our Sins, may the more 
clearly be feen. z. That the Sublimity anu Ex- 
cellency of Divine Majefty, offended by Sin 
may appear. 3. That we may behold the feverity 
of God's Juftice till He have Satisfaction and Re- 
paration in fome fort of the injuries done to Him. 
4. That the admirable largnefs of God's Mercy 
may be acknowledged and wondered at. 

For in the Price of Redemption payed, aS in a 
Mirror, we may fee how greatly the Lord hateth 
Sihjhow great His Love' is to the World in fending: 
His Son Chrifl amongft us; how heavy the 
Wrath of God fhall ly upon them that flee not 
to Chrifl's Satisfaction for their Dilivery : how 
great the Dignity and Excellency of the Lord our 
Redeemer is, for whofe caufe Reconciliation is 
granted to all that take hold ef the Offer of Grace 

through 



BOOK!. [ 81 ] CHAP. IV 

I [in ; how great tli 
is ro k 
greatly the Glory of all I 
3oth ihmc in the Work o( Rcdcn 

i. Hv tlr, ' inc. it a; 

and Wicked the I 

for pacifying of ( 
apr> 

and Soul- mat.. 
i akeocbccAbominatio 
Qpd hath not fpofcea, but fr . I the 

brin^ aboil) , i :is 

:n the i 
aiul to ah tiic 

po- 
ther S i 

is touch 

our 

i all ch< 
irtorm. M in Whom 

I, for fettling our I 

.: purpol 

War- 



BOOK I. [ 8x ] CHAP. IV. 

may be quieted, who Co ufe to exaggerate the 
grievoufnels and the multitude of their Sins, that 
they forget to put a right eftimation upon the 
Satisfaction made by Chrift, for all that cortie 
unto God through Him. 

The Third Article. 

THe Third Article of the Covenant of Re- 
demption, paft between the Father and 
the Son, concerneth the Benefits, Gifts and Gra- 
ces to be given unto the Redeemed .- All which 
Gifts and Graces, are fummarily comprehended 
In that one Gift of God, fpoken of, Job. 4. 10. 
which Gift is Chrift, Who is freely offered unto, 
and given to, the ele<3: Believer for Righteout 
*iefs and eternal Life, according to what was faid, 
Ifa, 9. 6. For, unto us a Child is born, a Son is gi- 
ven, on whofe Shoulders the Government is laid, 
whofe Name is called Jehovah, the wonderful Coun- 
fellor, theftrong God, the eternal Father and Prince 
of Peace. And, 2 Pet. 1. 3. Who according to 
His divine power, hath given unto us all things 
which pertain to Life and Godlinefs, through the 
knowledge of Him who hath called us to Vertue and 
Glory. 

z. The Benefits which are appointed for the 
Redeemed, are fo conveyed and brought unto 
them, that firft, they are Chrift's Riches which 
He hath purchafed unto the Eled:,and being re- 
fblved to die, that the purchafe might be made 
faft to His People, Hs hath made His latter Will 

and 



BOOK L [ 83 ] CHAP. IV. 

and Tcftament once and again, and left in Lc- 

Ecy to all that believe i:i[ 1 things 

longtoRighteoufnctsarv :ion; andti 

Benefits, in an acceptable time, He effectually 
apphcth and puts them in pon thereof. Oi 

which Gifts, wc lhallnamc c I'hrcc: The 

\m[\ is Regeneration, or turning of the Man to- 
ward Hi miclf. The Second is theGift< 
.1: The Third is Pcrlcverancc. la 
ic Patrt 

ee-will, d in them ly- 

ure the Glory of Gods free 
By glorying that without the ipccial Grace of 
Goo onrcrt themfclves or n 

plcafc, Jo that when God in: - Conver- 

fion, and u let h ali eir Cofiverfion, 

are able to re lift aliH Opera: 

nnkcvoid -a , ' \ 

this ( int of B 

Fa: l the Son, Mediator an. ! 

doth decide the Quel and give t 

ror, m whom God Jit ft 

r conform to t : 
So* — **d ■ 

7; andwb&m He caA 
fted\ and whom j He alio * 

fed. Rom. 3. tS. 

i 71 rr 

IT is a 

taliibly, and that laving Fait' 

F 



BO OK I. [84] CHAR IV. 

on them, and that they fhall perfevere in the 
obedience of Faith fo, as they fhall not totally 
and finally fall away from God's Grace. 

Itispromifcd to Chrift, Pfal. no. 3. That 
tn the day of His Tower, His People fhall le wil- 
ling. For, albeit the native Corruption of their 
Will, oppofeth it felf, and refifteth the Holy Spi- 
rit, when He is ufing the Means to Convert 
them ; yet in an acceptable time, the invincible 
power of God's free Grace toward them, fo tak- 
eth away all adtual Refiftance, that the Man, 
unwilling of himfelf, is made mod freely and 
heartily willing to be reconciled to God : For, 
God can both prefer ve the Natural Liberty of 
the Will, and take from it that Grookednefs and 
Frowardnels that is in it ; He can infufe and 
create in the Man a right Spirit, and new Ha- 
bites of Grace, and can bring forth thefeHabites 
unto J£xer,cife, making the Redeemed Man not 
***^y able to will,but alfo actually to Wi// and to Do 
what is pleafant to Him, Phil. x. 13. and Ephef 
z. 8. w r e are taught, That Faith is not of our f elves, 
it is the Gift of God; not of Works, left any Man 
flwuld haft. And this Gift of faving Faith ; is 
beftowed only on the Eleit ; and therefore it is 
calied, The Faith of the Eled, Tit. i. 1. and 
only they believe in Jefus Chrift, that are or- 
dained unto eternal Life, Att. 13. 48- yea, every 
one cometh to Chrift, who is given to Him of 
the Father, Joh.6.iy. and no Man cometh to 
Chrift ; fave he whom the Father draweth, Job'. 

6< 



BOOK !. f S^ CM \I\ IV 

but they that aic nocRcdcei 

Right Job. 

thChriftto 

re not c 

I bum /' 

! 

..! i.ic R 

Lord to < 

" ■ • 
*p>. ve**h 

Mo,. I not depart oh: 

Seeds Si ! 

■ 

///«£ Cruen.: M tot tnrn a 

from them to do them food, but I will put 

jll not depart from 
I 
) come 

lob. 10. i"8. while 
' in* unto them eternal 
(hd'il nei:r f ■■/ / '. neither jball 4tf) MsBf/pci :< i 
out i nut, th not too 

1 

pUCJ 



BOOK I. [ 86 ] CHAP. IV. 

Ad verfaries take their pretended Arguments from 
the Inftability of Mens Will, in the Matter of 
Perfeverance, and from the Freedom and Power 
of Mans changeable Will, in the Matter of Con- 
version and Saving Faith, and from the Manner 
of God's fpeaking to the mixed Multitude of 
both Called and not Chofen, and to them that 
are both Called and Chofen, we fliall content* 
our felves, for clearing this Covenant betwixt 
the Father and the Son, Mediator and Redeemer, 
to make the Matter faft concerning the Eledt, 
founding their Converfion, Faith, Repentance, 
Perfeverance and Salvation, upon the unchange- 
able Covenant of Redemption, fixed upon the 
fettled Agreement between God,and God the Son 
Mediator and Redeemer, as fliall be proven from 
Five places of Scripture. 

the Firjl Proof is from VerC 13.0/ Ma. yx. to the 
end <?/"Chap. 5*3. 

THe Ffrft Place is Ifa. $x.Verf.iy and for- 
ward to the end of Chap. 53. where we 
have, Firft, The Two Parties Contraders, God 
the Father, and Chrift : For, the Father brings 
forth His Confederat Son to be Incarnat by Co- 
venant, His Servant, Whom He imploysin the 
whole Work of Redemption, as the meritorious 
Caufe and Accompliflier of it ; Behold My Ser- 
vavt faith God the Father by His Spirit,fpeaking 
by the Prophet, Cfap.f z.i 3. Next, Both Parties 
are fure of the Event of the Padion, and of the 

ac- 






\vh 



ROOK I CH \i\ IV 

acomphlaing of the whole work glonoully M- 

ill deal prudently wdprefpe- 
«//>, He '. • xjlttd and cxtftllec 

He cells thepn 

I mil tlit pay f°r "** Rede 

ling of i lu- 

jc, unco the ig.. us Death* 

71*/ / / rrid m 

■mir.n: 

Hm\ Ih 
cd j»d relied #/ Mc» t a . rms 

% mi**f*i*ieA ■ 
vmmdtJhr om> rfffitms, 

m*k W**< tor S;», Ve£ IO. 

treat, is 

: of His 
I of many Nations, 

1 of the 
rhc Water of His 
fprinkk 

ro have 

htfoFA IC - //V 

til Regencrat th 

an <! h an.l Ice thOB 

His fad 



BOOK I. [ 88 ] CHAP. IV. 

Sixthly ■, No meritorious nor impulfivc Caufe 
is found' in the Perfons Redeemed, for which 
the Puniihment due to them ftiould be transfer- 
red upon the Mediator Chrift our Redeemer: for, 
they fhould be found in themfelves but Defpifers 
of Chrift, becaufe of His Sufferings, Chap. 5*3. 
4. Surely Ht hath horn our Griefs, and carried our 
Sorrows; yetwedidefteemHimflricken, fmitten 
of God and afflitled. 

Seventhly, No Sin nor meritorious Caufe of 
Puniihment is found in Chrift the Redeemer, for 
which He fhould be fmitten, Chap. 53. 5. 9. He 
was wounded for our Tranfgreffions — He had don$ 
no violence, neither was any deceit in His Mouth. 

E/ghtly f Peace and Reconciliation, and heal- 
ing of our finfuland miierableSicknelles^and de- 
liverance from Wrath, are purchafed by the Price 
of His Blood, Chap. $"$. 5. The chajlifement of 
cur Peace was upon Him, and with H% Stripes we 
are healed. 

Ninetbly, Thefe Sufferings Chrift did not en- 
dure unwittingly, or unwillingly, .but by Con- 
tent, by Covenaitt-cfeliberately, Chap. 53.7. He 
was oppreffed, and He was afflicted, , yet He opened 
not His Mouth ; He is brought as a Lamb to the 
Slaughter, and as a Sheep before .His Shearers is 
dumb, fo he opened not his Mouth. 

Tenthly, The Caufe of this Covenant, where- 
by the Price is called for, and yielded unto^ and 
payed, is the only free Grace of God and His 

good 



BOOK I [ X» ] P. IV. 

good PlcaUirc, ( io. It pleaUclthe L*r4 

t$ m, be bafb put him to 

Son, ti 

^hceoulncts mi 

j 3 . t i . / 
A'mwUtlfc, or I iHim, 

I 

. 

unto them all the pun! 

I 
r Intcrcejfum jv 

(IOC 

all and 

vjs 

* 

- 



BOOK I. [90 ] CHAP. IV. 

ti not on Him, that the faying of the Trophei 
Ifaiah might be fulfilled which he fpake, Lord, mho 
hath believed our report .-> and to whom is the Arm 
of the Lord revealed > therefore they could not be* 
lieve, bscaufe that Ifaiah faid again, ( I(a. 6. 
9, 10. ) He hath blinded their Eyes, and harde* 
ned their hearts, &c. 

Secondly, It foiloweth heace, that Election 
and Redemption were not for the forefeen Faith 
or Works of the Ele<ft Redeemed, but of the 
meer Grace and Good- Will of God, and all done 
for them and in them, eontrair to their Deferv- 
ings: For, it is faid, Ifa. 53. 6. All we, like Sheep 
have gone aft ray, and the Lord hath laid on him 
the imquity of us all. 

Thirdly, It folio weth hence that it was agreed 
upon, that faving Grace and Converfion & Sanc- 
tification, fhould infallibly and invincibly come 
topafs, and be given to the Redeemed, Ifa. ^z. 
13. Behold, My Servant jhall deal prudently and 
profperoufly ; and, Verf. 1 5-. he (ball fprinkle 
many Nations ; and Ifa. 53. 11. By his know- 
ledge jhall My righteous Servant juftifie many. 

Fourthly, Hence it foiloweth, that the A- 
greemenrispaft for their final Perfeverance and 
full Salvation : For, Ifa. 53. 5-. With his ftripes 
ive are healed : Now our healing, is our full Sal- 
vation from our Sin and Mifery, or our deadly 
S:cknefle$. And Ifa. 53. 10. The pleafure of 
the Lord jhall profper in lis hand: The pleafure 
of the Lord is partly our San&ification, 1 Thef 

4- 3- 



BOOK I [ 91 1 CI \? TV 

j. }. r*rtly**r SsIvJtion .nu/GUreficatio*. 1 

9. Thu Mthtrt will mbkh kuth <<*t 

tbot of jU which he bjrh ^ mm V I I 

ImjuU raijc tt hv. 

us purpoic jxnvc >i'\ Hi* Inter- 

.rtcfrom which rhc Apoftic 
- 

them f hat come to God h bim t femg heeocr iiveib 
to make Intercejfion for them. 

The Second Proof is fro* ! 10, 1 1. 

T Second Place 
when I ce- 

I 
the Redeemer He taich.thiu I 
as Redeemer. 
mene between 

1. arulehc Redeem ned, 

for uhom. arui 
grecnu.u ; 
I 

I J.:co' 

which 1 T ark o* 

., for whom 
as/u?m. 11.-./ 1 f 

../ted 
AH: 



BOOK I. [ 9 % ] CHAP.IV. 

fhall be not only by Price paying, but alfo by 
powerful and effectual working, as the original 
imports, Rom. n. z6. and, Ifa. 59. 20. Fifthly, 
the Benefits beftowed upon the Eledt, are compre- 
hended under the Designation of the Redeemed; 
they are to be turned from their iniquity by 
effectual Convention, by granting them Faith 
in Chrift, Repentance and Reconciliation. 
Sixthly, it is fliewed how thefe Graces fhall be 
brought to pafs, to wit, by application thereof 
by the Word and Spirit of Chrift ; from which, 
Saruitification, Salvation and the perpetuation 
of all Graces unto Salvation, do flow and fol- 
low on them ; My Spirit that is in Thee, faith 
the Lord to the Redeemer incarnat, and My Word 
which I have put in Thy Mouth, fhall not depart out 
of Thy Mouth, nor out of the Mouth of Thy Seed, &c. 

Thefe Articles of the Covenant of Redemption 
make exprefly, Firft, Againft univerfal Redemp- 
tion of all and every Man: Becaufe Chrift, as is 
lhewed before, makes His Bargain for the Eled, 
and leaves the reft in Blindnefs, and is a Re- 
deemer of none but of thefe to whom He is a 
Deliverer aftually, from whom He turncth away 
Iniquity and Ungodlinefs ; which Benefits befal 
none, but theEle<9: and the Redeemed. 

Next, They make againft Election for Faith 
and forefeen Works, becaufe when Chrift cometh 
to call in the Jews, He finds nothing commend-, 
able in them but Impiety and Tranfgreflion and 
Defection, and whatfoever might provoke Him 

to 



OOK L [ 91 ] CHAP. IV. 

re tmrnttl from Tranfgrejfiom. 
2 meer pcjjiblc 
and contingent ten 

I or, the Word an Spin* 

i dull take up a dwelling in them, and 
I hoc depart from them. 

twtbly. I akc agamfl the Dodruie of 

die e of th 

it is promitevl 
trom the Heart Aouth of 

rd and .Spine of Chrift lhall 
d . 

ThtV:irdrrc p, Joh. 6. 3-. (Sc. 

X6. from. /'. 
to 4>. where, Jtr(i t is let down the Par- 
;• v oofea&ersin the ( ovenant of Redemption; 
arc giw into the Eland 

r ; All 
fMe, cow. 

igofchcEIcdt 
. in d Con- 

I aith of die Redeemed; 
mttb to Me, (a 

med arc oomm 

( 

Ufenotbi tfhonti 

Fm 



BOOKL [94] CHAP. IV. 

Fourthly, It is agreed by what Means the 
Faith of the Redeemed (hall be formed in them, 
which are, the revealed fight of Chrift the Son 
of God in the Word ; the powerful drawing of 
the illuminat Soul unto Chrift; which powerful 
Draught overcometh all oppofition & refiftence, 
becaufe it is omnipotent and invincible; For, 
J$oman ccmtth to Qhrifi, hut he whom the Father 
draweth, V. 44. and that by making them faving- 
ly,and in a lively manner fee the Son and believe 
on Him, v. 40. 

Hence followeth, 1. That it isfalfeDo&rine 
to teach, That there is an Univerfal Redemp- 
tion unto Life, of AH and Every Man; becaufe 
hot All, but only Some are given, and made to 
come to Chrift; the reft that are not given,come 
not. 

Secondly > It followeth, that EtedHon is of 
meer free Grace ; becaufe Merf tome not unto 
Chrift that they may be givea, but they are gi- 
ven unto Chrift, that they may be brought and 
come unto Him. 

Thirdly, By this Agreement the powerful Con- 
verfion of the Redeemed, and their powerful 
Prefervation unto eternal Life; is as certain as' 
the Power, and Conftancy, and Obedience of 
Chrift unto the Father, is firm and certain; This 
is the mil of him thatfent w, that of what he hath 
given me, I fhould lofe nothing but raife ii up at 
the lajl Day. Verf. ffi 

m 



BOOK I. [ 9S 1 CHAP. IV. 

The Fourth Proof is, Joh. 10. 14. 

THc Fourth Place is,. Job. 10. from H 14, 
to V. 30. where we fee that the Lordje- 
fus, the true Pallor of Ifrael, before He was In- 
carnat, Pfd. a 3. continueth in that fame Office 
now, being Incarnat, and gives His People to 
underftand this, when He faith, / am the good 
Sheepherd. 

Secoxdly, The care and cuftody of all the Re- 
deemed, both converted and unconverted, was 
put upon Chrift, V. 14, 16. I know my Sheep, 
and am known of mine; and other Sheep I have, 
which are not of this Fold, them alfo I mufl bring 
in, and they fhall hear my Voice. 

thirdly, The Price of their Redemption is 
clearly agreed upon, V. 1 j. As the Father knows 
me, evenfe know I the Father ; and I lay down my 
Life for my Sheep. 

Fourthly, The Father accepts the Price, and is 
atisfied and well pleafed with it, Verf 17, 18. 
therefore doth my Father love me, hecaufe I lay 
iown my Life, that I may take it up again, &c. 

Fifthly, All the Redeemed are infallibly Con- 
certed, but they that are not Redeemed are nor 
Converted, V.zj. My Sheep hear my Voice, and I 
-vow them, and they follow me ; %\y& V. z6. But ye he* 
ieve not, hecaufe ye are not of my Sheep. 

Sixthly, Albeit the Redeemed and Convci> 
ed fhall not want Enemies, who fhall go about 
o mar their Perfeverance andSalvati$n,yet (hall 

they 



BOOK I. [576] CHAP. IV 

they not prevail, V. 28. I give them eternal Lift 
and they fh all never perijh, neither {hall any Mai 
f luck them out of my hand. 

Hence followeth, Fir ft, That the Dodhrine o 
Univerfal Redemption of All and Eyery Mai 
unto Life is falfe ; becaufeonly the Redemptioi 
of the Eled: Sheep is agreed upon> for vvhon 
He layeth down His Life, V. 15*. and the ref 
are not Redeemed, nor ordained to Life ; fo 
thefe He fpeaks to, 15.1x6, they were not of Hi: 
Sheep, but remained Unbelievers. 

Secondly, It followeth that the Eledion o 
Men is not for Faith or Works fore-feen, but or 
the contrary, Faith is ordained to be given urin 
the Redeemed, becaufe they are Eled-ed anc 
given over unto Chrift, to Convert and Save 
therii, V. 16. Other Sheep . I have, and them 1 
mufi brin^in, and they fhallhda? my Voice. 

Thirdly, it folio weth* that the Converfion ol 
the Eled: doth not depend on their Will, bui 
upon Chrift's Undertaking to' make them be- 
lieve, and upon His Omnipotency, Verf. 16 
Other Sheep I have, and them I muff bring in, and 
they fhall hear my Voice. 

^Fourthly, It followed^ that albeit the Redeem- 
ed Believers be in themfelvcs witlefs as Sheep, 
and weak, and ready to be deftroyed and com- 
pared about with many Enemies as Sheep a- 
mong Wolves, yet becaufe of the Omnipotence 
of the Father, and of the Sony that have taker 
the Care and cuftody <rf themy they {hall perfe 



BOOK I. [ 9? 1 CHAP. IV. 

vere. And it is impofliblc they Jhould perifli, 
Or not perfevere. Joh. 10. 28, 29. I give them 
eternal Life ; and they /hall never perijk, and nont 
can take them out of My Fathers hand. 

the Fifth? roof 

T He fifth Place is, Pfal. 40. explicatbythe 
Apoftle, H^.io. 5, 6, 7. where Firft, 
the Spirit of God expounds the Covenant where- 
of we are (peaking, and brings in the Parties, 
God and Chrift:, as fpeaking one to another, 
and as it were, in bur fight and audiences re- 
peating the Terms thereof. The Price of Re- 
demption is firft fpoken of, for expiation of Sin, 
not to be forgiven without Blood, without bet- 
ter Blood then the Blood of Beads. Hek 10. 4. 

Secondly, All Sat fsfad: ions by Men, and what- 
foever Price can be payed by meer Man, are 
reje&ed ; Sacrifice and Oblation Thou wouldfl not, 
Verf. <;. 

thirdly. Nothing except only the Incarnation 
Of the Son the Mediator, His Obedience and 
Suffering to the Death, could fatisfie divine 
Juftice ; But a Body haft thou prepared me, VeC 5-. 

Fourthly, The Mediator Chrift offers Him-" 
felf Pledge and Surety of His own accord, and 
takes the Condition ; then [aid I, lo I come, to 
wit, as Surety to pay the Ranfom* and to do thy 
will, Heb. 10. 7. 

Fifthly, Chrift the Surety, not only conde- 
fcends upon the Price, but alfo upon the 

Q Per- 



BOOK T. [ 98 ] CHAP. IV. 

Perfons ro be Redeemed, and their San&ification $ 
By which Will we are Sanftified* by the offer jug 
of the Body ofChrifl once for all : And this Price 
is now a&ually payed Heb. 10. 10. 

Sixthly, The Price being payed, the Media- 
tor goeth about the Application of the purchaf- 
ed Benefits, by His Interceflion, Heb. 10. 12. 
1 3 . This Man after he had offered one Sacrifice for 
Sin for ever fat down on the Right Hand of God 
ftom henceforth expelling till his Enemies be made 
his foot (toot. 

Hence followeth, Firjl, That there is no uni- 
verfal Redemption of All ag$l Every Man unto 
Life, Becaufe by one. offering he hath perfected fore- 
ver, them that are Sanclifed, Heb. 10. 14. there- 
fore they were never Redeemed, who are. ne- 
ver Sandified : and only they are perfected, who 
are Redeemed. 

Secondly, It follo\veth,tha.t not for any thing in 
Man, neither fore-feen Faith or Works, are Men 
EFe&ed and Redeemed, becaufe all is rejected 
that nicer Man can do, that the meer Grace of God 
may appear in Chrift's undertaking for Men of 
His own accord ; Sacrifice and Oblation thou would- 
eft not, then J aid I, behold \ I come , Heb. 10. 5, 7. 

Thirdly, By Chrift's Death purchafe is made 
of the infallible Converfion and San&ification 
of the Redeemed, and, of their Perfeverancc 
unto perfe&ion. By one Offering of Chrift He 
hath perfected for ever them that are Santtified, 
Heb. 10. 14. And therefore the Redeemed can- 
not 



BOOK I. [ 99 ] CHAP. IV, 

not but be Converted, cannot but be Sanctified* 
cannot but Prefevcre unto Perfection, and that 
forever, Heh, 10. n, 13, 14. 

The ufe of this Article is, Fir/?, That all 
thefe who hear the Gofpel, and have in any 
fort embraced it fhould in the acknowledge- 
ment of their natural Corruption and perverfe 
Wickednefs, humble themfelves before God, and 
pray for, and exped: Grace according to the 
promifes offered in the Gofpel. 

Secondly, That they who are already fenfible 
of their Sins and ill Defervings, may not turn a- 
way or be difcouragcd, but fo much the rather^ 
flee to Chrift in whom relief from Sin and Mi- 
fcry is promifed to fuch. 

thirdly, That they who have fixed their Eye 
on the Son refolvingto cleave unto Him, fhould 
acknowledge the powerful Draught of God's 
almighty Hand, who hath caufed them to come 
co Chrift, and Ihould upon the begun Work of 
Grace, conceive lively Hope of Salvation, and 
fludy to purifie their Souls in this Hope. 

Fourthly, That they who find the instability 
md inconftancy of their own Free-will, and have 
experience of their own Htart, deceiving them 
"requently, after they have engaged themfelves 
3y Promifes and Vows to take better heed to 
::hek ways, fhould not caft away their conft- 
lencein Chrift, becauft of their own Infirmity, 
Hit that they fhould lean lefs to their own 
Irength, and lay hold on Chrift's Power, Fide* 
Q % H* 



BOOK I. [ 100] CHAP. IV. 

delity and Conftancy fo much the more, for to 
help the Weak at fuch a dead lift. The Apoftle, 
looking to ChriiVs Engagement in the Covenant, 
for ctiot.e who in any meafure of fincerity adhere 
unro Him, hath faid, i Cer. i. 8, 9. Chrtfl 
fhall confrm you unto the end, that ye may he blame- 
lejs in the day of our Lord Jefus Chr/f. God is 
faithful lyVvhom ye are called unto the Fellow fhip 
of ffis Son Jefus Qhrift our Lord. 

Fifthly, Let us not take the guiding of our 
own Free-will, but let fo many as are fled to 
Chrift, give Him the Glory of the inclining of 
our Heart to His Teftimonies, and to His O- 
bedience in any meafure, and know that every 
fpiritua! Motion flowethfrom HisPurchafe, and 
Application of what is beftowed on us. And 
when we find His Hand withdrawing, and our 
Heart inclining to what is not right, let us run 
to Him to right it, in hope to be helped by His 
Grace, to fight againft whatfoever Adverfary of 
our Salvation, 

The Fourth Article. 
A S to the Fourth Article of the Covenant of 
Jf\ Redemption, it concerneth the Means and 
Manner how the Elccl: fhall be called forth from 
the Perifliing World, and be effectually called 
and turned unto God, fo as the World, among 
whom the ElecT: do live, fhall not have cauic 
of (tumbling juftly : For,- fie hath taken a mod 
Wife courfe lb to execute the Degree of Election 

and 



I (OKI. [ ioi ] CHAR IV. 

and Redemption, as He fliall be fure to bring 
in His own to Himfelf, and not to open up His 
Qounfel in particularto thedifcouragingofany, 
as is told by the Father, If a. 52. 13. My Ser- 
vant Jball deal prudently and pro/pen The chief 
Mean appointed, is the Preaching of the Gofpel 
to ail Nations, commanding all Men, where 
the Gofpel is by God's Providence preached, to 
Repeat and Believe in the Name of Jefus Chrift, 
and to love one another as He hath commanded 
them, Acts 1.7. 30. and', 1 Joh. 3. 23. and 
they who refufe to obey are without Excufe. 

Another Mean is, the bringing of fo many as 
profeis their Acceptation of the Oder of Grace 
by Chrift Jefus, them and their Children into 
the Bond of an exprefs Solemn Covenant, that 
they fliall iubmit themfelves to the Dodtrine 
and Government of Chrift, and teach their 
Children fo to do, as Abraham the Father of Be- 
lievers did, Gen. 18. 19. Matth. 28. 19, 20. 
Make Difciples of all Nations, or, make all Nations 
Difciples to Me. 

A Third Mean is, the fealing of the Cove- 
nant by the Sacrament of Baptiim, Matth. 28. 
19, 20. Make all Nations D/Jciples to Me, Bap- 
tizing them in the Name of the Father, of the Sw, 
and of the Holy Ghoft.. 

A Fourth Mean is, the gathering them into 
all lawful and pofiible Communion with o- 
thers His Difciples, that by their Church fellow- 
fbip one with another, they may be edified 

C 3 UIH 



BOOK I. [ io* ] CHAP. IV. 

under their Officers appointed in Chrift's Tefta- 
ment to Feed, Govern and Lead them on in the 
Obedience of all the Commands which Chrift 
hath commanded His People in HisTeftament: 
By which Means He goeth about His Work, 
aod doth call effectually, San&ifie and Save, 
His own Redeemed Ones, leaving all others 
without Excufe r 

Concerning all thefe and other Means and 
Manner alfo of executing His Decree, it is a- 
greed upon between the Father and His Son 
Chrift, as His holy Spirit hath revealed it to 
us in Scripture. All which majg be taken up in 
Two Heads ; the one is, The agreement about 
the Dodrrine, and Dire&ions given to His 
Church ; the other is, About Anions, Oper- 
ations, and all Etfe&s to be brought about for 
making His Word good. 

Concerning His Dodtrine, Chrift faith, Job. 
12. 49, 50. I have not fpoken of My f elf > hut 
the Father Who hath fent Me, He gave Me a 
Commandment whatlfhouldfay, and what I Jbould 
[peak, and I know, that His Commandment is Life 
everlaftivg, whatfcever If peak therefore, even as 
the Father faid unto Me, fo If peak. 

Concerning Actions and Operations, and the 
execution of the Decrees, it is agreed alfo be- 
tween the Father and the Son. Joh. 8. 16. If 
I judge, My Judgement is true : For, I am not a- 
lone s lut land the Father that fent Me ; and verH 
29. He that fent Me, is with Me, the Fatter 

hath 



BOOK I. [ 103 ] CHAP. IV 

hath not left Vie alone : For I do always thefe things 
that pleafe Him ; and Joh. 6. 38. / came dam 
from Heaven, not to do My own Will (without the 
Confent of the Father ) but the Will of 'Him that 
fefit Me. 

In a word, the Confent and Agreement of the 
Father and the Son JefusChrifl our Lord, is fuch, 
that the Son doth nothing by His Spirit, but 
that which the Father doth work by the fame 
Spirit from the beginning of the World, Joh. 5. 
17. My Father worketh hitherto, and I work; 
and Col. 1. 16. For by Chriftwere all things create 
ed that are in Heaven and that are in Earth, vi- 
fible and invifible, whether they be Thrones or Do- 
minons, or Principalities, or Powers all things 
were ere at <td by Him and for Him \ He is Alpha 
and Omega, the Beginning and the Ending, the 
fir ft Efficient, and the la ft End of all things. Rev. 
1. 8. becaufe for the Glory of Chrift, the Cre- 
ation, the Covenant of Works, and the Cove- 
nant of Grace, were made, and had, and {hall 
have their full execution, all for the Glory of 
God in Chrift, by Whom all Things were made 
and do fubfift. 

CHAP. V. 

Of the Covenant of Works. 

W£ have fpoken of the firft Divine Co* 
venant, wherein God, and God Jncar- 
nat are the Parties; it followeth to 
(peak of the next Divine Covenant, to wit, the 

G 4 Cp ? 



BOOK I. [ 104 ] CHAP. V. 

Covenant of Works between God and Man, A- 
dam and his Pofterity, made in Man's Integrity. 
In which Covenant, God is onely the one Par- 
ty of the Covenant, and Man created with all 
natural Perfections, is the other Party. In this; 
Covenant, Man's continuing in a happy Life, is 
promifed, upon condition of perfect perfonal O- 
bedience, to be done by him out of his own na- 
tural ftrength bellowed upon him, as the Apoftle 
teacheth us, Gal. 3. ii. the Law is not of Faith, 
hut the Man who Jh a 11 do thefe things Jh all live by 
them. And unto this Law or Covenant of Works, 
is added a threatning of Death in cafe Man 
iliould tranfgrefs ; The fenfe whereof is told by 
the' Apoftle, Gal. 3. 10. Curfed is every one who 
doth not abide in all things, that are written in the 
$ook of the Law to do them. 

'The Difference between the Law, and the Covenant 
of Works. 

THe word Law, is (bmetime taken for the 
Matter or Subftanceof the Law of Nature, 
written in the Hearts of our firfl: Parents by Crea- 
tion; the work of vvhichLaw is to be found in. the 
Hearts of their Pofterity unto this day. And in this 
fenfe the wordLau>,is taken by theApo(tle,i?^w.x. 
1 j. "The Gentiles (faith he) [hew the work of the 
Law written in their Hearts, their Conference alfo 
tearing wit nefs, &c. Sometime the Word is ta- 
ken for the formal Covenant of Works, as Gal. 
3.10. As many as are of the works of the Laiv,thzt 

is 



BOOKI. [ioj] CHAP.V. 

is, under the Covenant of Works, are under the 
Curfe: For, it is Written, Curfed is every one that 
continueth not in all things that are written, in the 
Book of the Law, to do them. 

x. The Law as it is taken for the Covenant 
of Works, differeth from the Law of Nature, 
written by Creation in the Hearts of our firfl 
Parems ; firfl:, becaufe the Law of Nature, writ- 
ten in theHeatt of Man, in order both of Na- 
ture, and Time, went before the Covenant 
made for keeping that Law ; becaufe the Co- 
venant for keeping that Law, was not made till 
after Man's Creation, and after h(s bringing in- 
to the Garden to drefs it, and to keep it, Gen. 
z. 16. 17, 

Secondly, God by vertue of the Law written 
in Man's Heart, did not oblige Himfelf to per- 
petuat Man's happy Life : For, albeit Man had 
keeped that Law mod acuratly, God was free to 
difpofe of him as He faw fit before He made the 
Covenant with him ; but fo foon as He made 
the Covenant, He obliged Himfelf to preferve 
him in a happy Life, fo long as he fliould go 
on in obedience to His Law and Commands, ac- 
cording to the Tennor of the Covenant, Do this 
and live. 

thirdly, Death was the natural Wages and 
Merit of Sin, albeit there had no Covenant been 
madeatall: For, Sin againft God, deferveth,of 
its own Nature, Death ofSoul and Body, by 
the Rule of fimple Juftice, whether the Sinner 

had 



BOOKI. [106] CHAP. V. 

had contented to the Puniftiment or not . But 
Man by entering in the Covenant adtually gave 
a formal voluntary Confent, that Death fhould 
feife upon him, if he fhould Sin, as Evah bear- 
eth witnefs in her Conferrence with the Serpent, 
while fhe doth repeat the Condition put upon 
the breaking of the particular Command given 
by God, and accepted by Man, Gen. 3. 3. 

Fourthly, When the Covenant of Works is 
abolilbed fo far, as it can neither juftifie, nor 
condemn the Man that is fled to Chrift, and 
^ntrcd in another pofterior Covenant of Grace, 
the natural Obligation of the Man ftandeth ftill, 
rbr taking direction from, and giving obedience 
to the Law; For, it remaineth ftill the Rule of 
a Man's walking, and it is impoflible that a 
meer Man fhould be exeemed from the Autho- 
rity of God over him, and from fubj edition due 
by Nature to his Creator : For upon this ac- 
count that Man is a reafonable Creature, under- 
ftanding God's Will about his Behaviour toward 
God, he is always bound for ever to love God 
with all his Mind, Heart and Strength, and 
his Neighbour as himfelf. Neither can the na- 
tural Merit of Sin be taken away, ncr Death 
defervedbe efhewed but byForgivenefsofit for 
Chrift's Merits. 

The Covenant then was fuperadded unto the 
Law in the deep Wifdom of God : For this way 
of dealing with Man by a Covenant, was, of its 

owq 



BOOK I. [ 107 ] CHAP. V. 

own Nature, amoftfit Mean uftto Man's Felici- 
ty, and unto the Glory of God. 

Hvwthe Covenant of God with Man was a Vie an 
to Mans Felicity. 

THe Covenant of God with Man, tended of 
its own nature to Man's Good and Hap- 
pinefs. 

Firft, Becaufe a Angular Refped and Honour 
was put upon Man, when he was made a Con- 
federal Friend of God '• For if it be an Honour 
to a mean and poor Man to be joined with a 
King or Prince ina formal Bond o£iutual Friend- 
fhip,how much greater Honour is it unto Man, 
to be joined in a Bond of mutual Love & Friend- 
{hip with God > 

Secondly, Before the making of die Covenant, 
Man had no Promife made to him by God, but 
fo {bon as the Covenant was made, the Lord did 
freely oblige Himfelf to give, and made to Man 
a Right to ask, and to exped: of God, with a 
Ground of Certainty, to obtain of Him fuch 
Things, as without Promife pad, he could not 
ask, or at leaft, he could not certainly exped! 
Co have granted unto him. 

Thirdly, Before the making of the Covenant, 
nothing hindred the Lord, if He had pleafed, to 
command Man to return to Duft whereof he was; 
but after the Covenant, it pleafed God, by His 
own free Promife, to oblige Himfelf to perpe- 
tuate 



BOOK L [ 108 ] CE[ AP. V. 

tuate Mans Happinefs wherein he wa^made, fo 
long as he fhould go on in Obedience. 

Fourthly, By the making of the Covenant, a 
Door was opened, and a fair Entry to a higher 
degree of Felicity than he poffefled by his Crea- 
tion : For, when a natural Life and earthly Fe- 
licity was given to Adam to enjoy upon the Earth, 
God, by the Covenant, made padion with him 
upon condition of perfed: Obedience, to give 
him a Life and Felicity fuper-natural, oppofite 
unto Death bodily and fpiritual, which was 
threatned unto him if he fliould tranfgrefs the 
Command. 

Fifthly, A Jam, by the Covenant, had a fort 
of Help to make him keep the Law written in 
his Heart more carefully and cautioufly, and a 
Prop to make him (land more fixed : For on the 
one hand, he was advertifed and forewarned of 
the Danger of Sinning, that he might beware to 
offend God; and on the other hand, he was en- 
couraged and allowed to ferveGod more cheer- 
fully, and to perform due Obedience to God 
the more diligently ; For^ in the Covenant, the 
greateft Reward that could be thought upon was 
let before him, and promifed unto him; to wit, 
eternal Life upon his Obedience, and the grea- 
teft Punilhment threatned if he fliould Dif-obey; 
both which ferved greatly to move him to be 
conftant in his Obedience, 



BOOK I. [ 109 ] CHAT?. V. 

Hott> God's Covenanting with Man ferved for God's 
Glory. 

IN God's covenanting with Man, His Glory- 
did notably fhine and fhew forth it felf to 
Man. Firft, The Goodneis and Bounty of God 
did manifeft it (elf therein : For, in making a 
Covenant with Man, the Lord demitted Him- 
felf, and in a manner humbled Himfelf to deal 
with Man, for the {landing of mutual Friendlhip 
between Himfelf and Man for ever: And when 
we confider this, as the Pfalmid faith, Pfal. 8.4. 
What is Man that Thou art mindful of him? and 
the Son of Man that Thou vifitefl him ? So may we 
fey, What is Man ? or the Son of Man, that 
Thou fliouldeft enter in Covenant with him ? 

Secondly, By covenanting with Man, God did 
Ihow His wonderful Moderation : For, God is 
Soveraign Monarch and Abfolute Emperor over 
His own Creature, to make of it what He pleat 
eth ; yet, in covenanting with Man, He did 
fweetly temper His Supreamacy, feeking, as it 
Were, to reign with Man's Confent. And when 
becaufe of His Soveraign Authority and Abfo- 
lute Right and Int@reft, he might have put upon 
Man harder Commands and Conditions of the 
Covenant, and thefe alfo altogether Righteous 
and Juft, He choofed to ufe fuch Moderation, 
that He would require nothing of Man, except 
that which Man fhould and behoved in reafon 
judge both a juft and aneafie Yoke, and in ac- 
cept- 



BOOK I. [ no ] CHAP. V 

ceoting the Condition of the Covenant, acknow- 
ledge it to be fuch. 

Thirdly, The Lord declared His Wifdom in 
covenanting with Man, becaufe when He had 
made Man a reafonable Creature, He choofed 
to draw forth a free and voluntary Service, moft 
futeable to his reafonable Nature, and that in a 
moft fweet way ; to wit, not only by giving 
unto Man a moft equitable Law, but alfo by 
fetting before the Man, by way of padtion, the 
higheft Reward that he could be capable of, e- 
ven Life everlafting. 

Fourthly, In covenanting with Man, God did 
moft wilely and holily have a Refpedt to the Glo- 
ry of His own, both Soveraigncy and Holinefs; 
becaufe after He had made Man by Nature Good 
and Holy (albeit muteable and fubjecft to change, 
if the Man pleafed to eflay another way ) He 
took courfe to help themutablity of his Free* 
will, not only by fetting a Reward of Obedience 
before him, but alfo by a threatning of Fu- 
niftiment, if he fliould tranfgrefs, andfbonthe 
one hand and the other to hedge him in, and 
guard him againit all temptation unto Sin, that 
neither he Ihiuld be forced by any external 
Power to Sin, nor by any Counfel or Suggeftion, 
or moral Swafion ( whereunto only Man was 
expofedin the trial of his Obedience,) fhould 
have fo flrorg Motives to draw him to Difobe- 
dience, as thepromife of God, and thethreat- 
nirg fl-.cuid have force in all Reafon, to keep 

him 



BOOK I. [ m ] CHAP.V- 

him faft to, his due and loyal Obedience. Thus 
was Adam fore-warned and fore-armed againfl; 
whatfoever, without himfelf, might aflault him : 
For, what Reward for Difobedicnce could be 
offered unto him, ib great as the Favour of God 
and everlafting Life in the fellowfhip of God; 
promifed to; him, if he continued faft ia Obe- 
dience > and what Terror eoUld be fo great to a- 
fright and skar him from Sin, as the threatning 
of Death bodily and (piritual,if he tranfgrefled? 

Quejl. But the profane Curiofity of Mandareth 
to ask a Reafon, why God did not make Man 
both good by Nature and immutably good al(b> 

Anf. It is indeed proud Curiofity to enquire 
for Reafons of God's holy Will, which hath its 
own mod fufficient Reafon in its felf, and may 
fatisfy all His Subje&s, who will not devilifhly 
prefer their own Wifdom and Counfel to His : 
But we fliall content our felves foberly to anfwer 
the Queftion thus : To be both criminally, or by 
Nature Good, and unchangeably Good alfo, be- 
feemeth God Himfelfonly, as His Property and 
Prerogative, which it became His Majefty to 
referve to Himfelf as the Fountain of all Good- 
nefs, and not to communicat this Glory either to 
Man or Angel in their Creation, that the due. 
diftance between God and the natural Perfections 
of the Creature, fliould not only be provided 
for, but made manifesto the Creature alfo. It's 
true, Chrift's humane Nature was fo (an&ified 
in His Conception, that there was no poflibili- 



BOOK I. [ in ] CHAP. V. 

ty that Sin fhould be in it ; but let us confider, 
that Chrift's Perfon which did affume the humane 
Nature into perfonal union with His God-head, 
is not a Creature ; and to afiiime the humane 
Nature into a perfonal union with His divine 
Nature, is the proper Priviledge of God over 
all, blefled for ever. And what the humane 
Nature of Chrift hath of Holinefs, it hath it 
not of it felf, but of Grace from the fecpnd 
Perfon of the God-head, who did affume it. 
And the Angels that Hood when the mutability 
of angelical Nature was manifefted in the fall 
of many of them, did (land by the Grace of 
free confirmation of them in their ftation. 

Fifthly, God in covenanting with Man, made 
way for . the Demonftration of His moft holy 
Juftice in the execution of Puniihment, which 
was not only the natural Wages arid deferved 
Reward of Sin, but alio by Padhoh and Cove- 
nant appointed by mutual Content! 6f Parties, 
if Man, fo much obliged tbGdd, fhould break 
fo equitable and cafie a Command, as was gi- 
ven to try him by, being fore-warned of his 
Danger. 

Sixthly, This way of covenanting with Man, 
Was a moft holy and fit Mem to fnanifeft the 
Vanity and Inftability of the moft perfect Crea- 
ture, except in the cxef cife of all its' Abi titles & 
Habits, it do acknowledge God; and in every 
thing left and more; conftantly miploy Him, 
and depend upon Hin : 

m 



BOOK! [ 113 3 CB-AP. V 3 

Lafi of all, This was a mod holy Mean to 
bring forth to light the Grace and Mercy of 
God in Chrift,providing a Remedy for fallen Man 
before he fell, and to open up the Decree and Co- 
venant of Redemption in due time,to be brought 
about by Chrift, to the Glory of God in Chrift, 
by Whom, and for Whem all things were wade, 
Col 

Cbejl, Had this Covenant of Works no Me- 
diator, no Surety engaged for Adam and all his 
Pcjfterlry.? 

if. No Mediator was in this Covenant ; for 

the party on the one hand, was God, and on the 

other hand was Adam and Evepwi common Pa- 

ling upon the ground of their natu- 

,, reprefentirig and coir- iing 

■turalOfffpring: fliftd ring to 

:he Condition oi the Covenant in their own 

name,and name of their Pofterisy, promifingO- 

bedjen:; receiving the- condition of Life if 

thfey continued, and of Death in cafe they failed, 

Gpti: . U >v}\ofe.i i H have finned, Row, 

of a Mediator, did not ap- 
pear in this Covenant fo long as it flood, that 
aftenvacd in the making of another Covenant; 
it might more timeoufly appear. Firft, becauie 
Man being created; Holy according to the M 
©f God, ;- was the Friend of God while he had 
net (mmd ;.aitd again his Service, while he 
flood m Ohedieuce, < was very plea&nt irid 

fit 



BOOK I. [ ir 4 ] CHAP. V. 

ceptable to God, becaufe fo long freely and fm- 
cercly he ferved God according to the Com- 
mand and Rule written in his Heart. 

Queft. After that this Covenant was broken, 
was it not abolilhed altogether, feing it could 
not now be any longer perfectly obeyed, nor 
iave us who are Sinners ? 

Anf. Albeit this Covenant, being broken on 
Mans Part, did become weak and utterly un- 
able to produce Juftification by Works, or eter- 
nal Life to us, by our inherent Righteoufnefs ; 
yet, on God's part, the Bond of this Covenant, 
doth Hand firm and ftrong againft all Men by 
Nature for their Condemnation, who are not 

c :m riled to God : Wherefore all that are not 
a and made Friends with God by another 

- nit of Faith in Godincarnat ( the Seed of 

- i oman, who deftroyeth the Work of the 
Devil ) do lye bound under the Bond of this Co- 
vciant of Works, as Chrift teftifies, Joh. 3. 18. 
He that believeth on me, is not condemned ; but he 
that believe th not, is condemned already ; to wit, 
by the force of the Covenant of Works violated 
by them, and are not delivered from the Curie 
by Chrift the Son of God, till they fly to Him : 
And this doth the Apoftle confefs, fpeaking of 
himfelf acd other elecl: Jews before their Rege- 
neration, Eph.i.^We alfowere Children of Wrath, 
even as 0//w.r:for,whofoever is not reconciled to 
God by Chrift, againft him doth the Sentence 
of the Law, and Curfe for Violation of the Co- 
ve- 



BOOK I. [ u S ] tHAP.V. 

venant, ftandin force .- For, finning againft the 
Covenant, doth not loofe the Man from the Co- 
venant,neither from the Obligation to obey it, 
nor from the punifhment of breaking it. 

Olj. But feing a Man is utterly unable to o- 
feey the Law, or to keep that Covenant, doth 
not his utter inability oxcufe him and diflblve the 
Bond ? \ 

Anf. No ways : Becaufe that Inability is the 
Fruit of our Sin, and is drawn on by our felves ; 
nor doth God lofe His Right to crave the Debt 
due to Him, becaufe the Bankrupt is not able 
to pay what he oweth : For, even among Men, 
fiicn as have mif-fpent their Patrimony, are not 
abfolved of their Debt becaufe they are not able 
to pay the Debt; yea, even the Children of the 
Mif-fpender of his Goods, do Hand Debtors fo 
long as the Debt is neither payed nor forgiven. 

The Covenant of Works therefore being 
broken, the Obligation ftandeth, to make us' 
give obedience fo much the more in time to' 
come, and becaufe of the Cur fe pronounced for 
the breaking of the Covenant in time pad, the 
Obligation to undet-lye the Puniihment for by- 
gone Sins doth ftand ; andfo both the Obligati- 
on to underly the Punifhment, and the Obliga- 
tion to give Obedience, do (land together, while 
a Man is not abfolved from the Covenant of 
Works, by entring in a new Covenant, where- 
by the Debt is payed and the Sinner abfolved. 

H x Who- 



BOOK f. [ 116 CHAP. "V, 

Whofoever then conceive, that they may be 
Sect from by-gone Sins by their own Obedi- 
- in time to come, either by way of doing or- 
. ;. theybiit'cleceivcthemfcives, drcaoi- 
•^cy can do ImpoiTibilities ; For, the Puniih- 
it to be fliffered for Sin by the Sinner, is the 
"Curfe-evcrlaftingof Soul and Body, icing ameer 
ature cannot for ever fatisfie for his Rebellion, 
how long foever we preilippofe his duration un- 
der fuffcring. And for Obedience by way of do- 
perfedfcly what the Law doth crave, it is ut- 
y impoinbie, becaufe we are carnal, fold un- 
Mii, and cannot fatisfie the Law* ; and becaufe 
:\nnot fetisfie the Law, the Law becometh 
I; arid unable, to juftifie -and fave us, jR^w.8.3. 

How the Covenant of Works may he called the 
• Covenant of Nature. 
: A Lbeit the Law written by Nature ift Mens 
jTx Heart, dirlereth from the Covenant for 
rmance of the Law, as hath been fhown be- 
; yet, the Covenant of works made with 
before he-fell,; tying him to keep that 
ay be called the Covenant of Nature. 
■ Frrfi, Becaufe 'the C :: of Works is 

n the Law of Nature, and doth 
dung of Man, fave that which God 
[it require of him according to the La 
:ure. 
Secondly, Bec'au fe when the Covenant of works 
made with Adam, it was made with all his 

' .Na- 



^EOOE [ 117 3 CHAP. V, 

' natural Pofterity, which wastofpringefThirn by 
natural Generation-; and fo tba Obligation there- 
of did pals upon all his natural Pofterity, by the 
Law of Nature, which niaketh the Child b. 
ten to bear the Image of the Begetters. 

Thirdly, That the Covenant of Works r 
jiiflly be called the Covenant of Nature, ap : 
:e of the Confcience being wai 
fieepy Security; for, it cba 
Sin according to that Covenant, and pro- 
riofcneeth the Sentence of God's .Wrath ag 
Sinner: For, the Confcience doth acknow- 
e the Judgement of God, That they 1 

ikitfgSj arewrthy of Death, Rom. 1. 32,, 
Fou oecaufe the Confcience naturally 

clineth aMan to leek J unification by his 

ks, if it can any way find pretence for it* 
as we may fee ia the Phqrifee,' who m his Speech 
to God, doth judge himfeif a holy Man, becaufe 
he is nor nmongli the word of Men, and hath 
iy good , Works above others to reckon 
forth and lay before' God, Lu&. 18. 11 

Fifthly, The Inclination of Man's Heart, to 
expect a Reward of every good Work he doth, 
whether it be in fome part real or only apparent- 
ly, fiich tellihcth fo much, *jWg. 17. 13./?//- 

\pod, Viie to my P.riejl* 

how bly the Confcience may be d 

"ale, when Men do dote upon their 
: crying, a] u in L 

H ; 



pOOK I. [ 118 ] GHAP. V. 

Gen. 30. 18. Leah faith, God hath given m e 
my hire, becaufe I have given my Maiden to my 
Husband. 
* Sixthly, This Point is alfo made manifeft by 
the natural Ignorance of Righteoufnefs by Faith' 
and affe&ation to be juftifiedby Works, which 
the Appoftle finds fault-with in the Ifralites 
Rom.9.3 1. 7hey fought Righteoufnefs not by Faith 9 
but as it were by Works : And Rom. 10. 3. being 
Ignorant of the Righteoufnefs of God, and going a* 
bout to ejlablifh their own Righteoufnefs ( to wit, 
Righteoufnefs by Works, according to the tenor 
of the Covenant of Works) they did not fubmit 
themfelves to the Righteoufnefs of God. 

Seventhly, The fame Courfe followed by Pa- 
fifls and other erroneous Teachers, teftifieth the 
natural inclination of Men to feek Righteoufnefs 
by Works, according to the tenor of the Cove- 
nant of Works, and not by Faith in Chrift Jefus, 
that Righteoufnefs may come by Grace only;and 
lb are feme Mens Hearts glued to this Error,that 
jhey do transform J unification by Faith injufti- 
ification by one Work in flead of all, as if the 
Work of Faith were the Man's Righteoufnefs, 
and not Chrift Himfelf laid hold on by Faith •' 
Notconfidering, that to the Man thatrenounc- 
eth all confidence in any work of his own, and 
flieth to Chrift by Faith, Chrift is made of God 
unto that Man Wifdom and Righteoufnefs, 1 Cor. 1.30. 

Laflofall, This natural Inclination even of the 
Regenerate to feek Righteoufnefs by Works, doth 

^ prove 



BOOK I. [ 119 ] CHAP V. 

prove the Covenant of Works to be naturally in- 
graft in all Mens Hearts, as appeareth in the 
Galatians, who being inftrudted in the Do&rine 
of Juftification by Faith in Chrift, without the 
Works of the Law, did eafily upon a Tentation 
offered, lookback with liking to the way of 
Juftification by Works,for which the Apoftle re- 
provech them, Gal. 4. 21. Tell me (Taith he) 
ye that defire to he under the Law, . or Covenant 
of Works; and Ver. 9. But now after ye have 
known God, or rather are known of God, how turn 
ye again to weak and beggarly Elements, whereunto 
you dejtre again to be in bondage ? 

Obj. But, the Galatians as itfeemeth, did not 
rejedt Juflification by Faith, but did join with 
it Juftification by the Works of the Law, think- 
ing that the fafeft way was to join both together. 

Anf. The inconfifiency of rhefe two ways of 
Juftification, theApoflle flieweth, Rom. 11. 6. 
For, Juftification by Grace,is no more by Works, 
otherwife Grace is no more Grace, and what 
Juftification is by Works, is no more of Grace, 
otherwife Work is no more Work. And there- 
fore the Apoftle makes the joining of thefe two 
ways of Juftification to be nothing elfe but a 
plain feeking of Juftification by the Covenant of 
of Works, which cutteth a Man off from any 
benefit by Chrift, Gal. 5*. 2. and whofoever 
feeketh to be juftified by the Law, or Cove- 
rt of Works, is fallen from Grace, Ver. 4 

H a For 



BO'OJK'I. Jbfi£ ] GHAP, H. 

For further clearing this Matter, we may di« 
ilinguiih Two forts of the Covenant of Works: 
The one is True, Genuine, and of God's Tniti- 
tution, which God made with. afli M -dam, 

for perfect obedience unto God's Law, out of 
Man's own natural Abilities. The." other 

Couhterfit,8aftard Covenant of Works,6f "Man's 
own devifing, which : a Siiiner, lyifYg'inhis Sin's 
(unable to do what the Law commands, or to 
fuffer what the Law, being-broken^- binds'*" 
him) of his own head devifeth, upon other Con- 
ditions than God hath f r will have God^ 
to take hisdevifed Covenant inflead of perfe6fc 
Obedience to the Law, th*c Co i. be Jufti- 
fied. Such was the Covenant, which the carnal 
Ifraelites made with God in ttie Wildernefe, and 
which their Pofterity did follow, turning the 
venant of Grace, whereunto God was •ealling them 
intoa Covenant of Works of their own • 
For, the Grace which- was- offered' to ' 
Chrift,under the vail of Leviticai Types, Ffjgi 
andCeremonies,they turned into an - I fer- 
•vice'of performance only of bare- %nd dead'Gere- 
monies, and into a of theXetter and 
Death: For they did not takeupChrift to be the 
End of the Law, for P one 
that believes in Him, but did think, that both' 
the Moral-and Ceremonial La\V was given- unto 
them- of God, so the i; '.hey 'flio'ald do 
rfo of the Moral -.La ; r- as- 
they could; and when they cranfgrefied the 






BOOK I [fc« CHAP. V. 

Mora lliw, they fhould "{He to the Ceremonial 

and make droeri£s4bt their Fades' by {arisfy- ; 

ing eir Sin xrernal Sacrifice of 

feme clean Beafl o(fered to God, the 

d their Glostlk" S' 
novy teiays many 
make w mttln th the old Pfe- 

r/fey'di&(ertfe*o£t '• Law, br 

exec. 3 " iiiay keen 

the> : in- 

2 Utl- 

xhteot^Vx 7 ; i And-' 
this es : to be : gui!ty 

of original -fe Lfiftj andby extenuating 

and d'imimfl Faftlis,< as $&« Hgh't and- 

factions? fc '&£* 

*ead 

or )V 
that (b £ •/ be ju'fl'ified by r - -rks'and 

Such- air; k Covenant, who 

feek ]ui : ? deeeafed Sfillts Merits; I 

itagt • Absolution from Sin, an4 

of Co- 
venants of Mens fram I call Baftard-Co- 
of Works, becaufe God will not admit 
any other Covenant of Works than that which 
requires, perfonal Obedience, And 
die*' r.o bejnnified by 

-t the Obligation "of per- 
ionatOk- Mgftt pal;* of Death, 

1 



BOOK I. [ lia, ] CHAP. V. 

and will be found not only utterly unable to do 
any good Work, but alfo to be without Chrift, 
and to be fallen from Grace, as the Apoftle 
(Gal. 5-. 3, 4. ) doth teach us. 

Obj. Seing God doth abhor thefe Baftard- 
covenants of Works, and doth well know, that 
Men are fo far from performance of the due o- 
bediencc of the Law, that they are utterly un- 
able before they be reconciled through Faith in 
Chrift, to do to much as one acceptable Work 
as the Ffalmift teacheth, PfaL 14. 1. 2, 3. Why 
doth the Lord exadperfed Obedience unto the 
Law from Sinners? why doth He prefs fo inftant- 
ly the Slaves of Sin to perform the Duties requi- 
red in the-true Covenant of Works ? 

Anf. The Lord juftly doth abhor and rejcd 
thefe Baftard-covenants, becaufe they evacuat 
and make void both the Covenant of Works and 
the Covenant of Grace, which is by Faith inChrift; 
and He doth prefs all Men to perform perfed O- 
bedience to all the Commands whereunto they 
are naturally obliged, to the end that proud Men, 
conceity of their own natural Abilities, may find 
by experience, that they are unable to perform 
the Condition of the Covenant of Works, and 
may acknowledge the fame, and fo defpair of 
Righteoufnefs by their Works, and be forced to 
flye to Chrift, and to the Covenant of Grace 
through Him, that they may be fred from that 
Covenant ; and being juftifiedby Faith in Chrift, 
may be enabled to begin new obedience to the law 

in 



BOOK I [ 123 ] CHAR V. 

in the ftrength of Chrift's Furniture:For,C£/7$ is 
the End of the Law for Right evufnefs to every one 
that believeth, Rom. 10. 4. And the Law en- 
tered, that Men might by the Law fee and ac- 
knowledge that the Offence did abound, and 
then might perceive, that the Riches of Grace 
by Chrift, did faper-abound, Rom. 5. 20, 21. 
and, 1 Tim. 1. 5. The End of the Command, is 
Love out of a pure Heart, and a good Confaence, 
and Faith unfained. 

This was the End of the promulgation of the 
Law in Mount Sinai, that a ftiff-necked People, 
milling in their own Abilities, might be made 
fenfible of their imperfe&ion, by the repetition 
of the Law. And to this alfo God fuper-added 
the external Yoke of the Ceremonial Law, which 
neither they, nor their Pofterity were able to 
bear, Ads 15. 10. that the People perceiving 
their manifold Pollutions and Guiltinefs,where- 
in they were daily involved by breaking of 
God's Law, might, in the fenfe of the Burden 
lying on them, and of their damnable Eftate 
under it, fly to Chrift the Lamb of God that 
takes away the Sins of the World, as He was 
reprefented and offered to their fight in the Sa- 
crifices and Burnt-offerings. 

Of this End of preffing the Law upon proud 
Men, we have an Example, Matth. 19. 16, 17, 
18, 19, 20, 21, 22. in the Conference of Chrift 
with the young conceity rich Man, who in the 
opinion of his own inherent Righteoufnefs, and 

of 



gOOK I [ 1*4 ] CHAP. V, 

of his Abilities, was hudgely fwelled, as if he 
had already for time by-gone fatisfied the whole 
Law, and that he was ab!e and ready to do any 
good Work which could be prefcribed unto him; 
ior obtaining -of eternal Life; whofe pfoud Con- 
ceit, that Chrift might humble and bring down, 
He craveth nothing but that he would keep the 
Commands: And when the young Man denied 
that he had broken the Law, He proveth hini 
guilty of grofs and vile Idolatry, from this, that 
he put a higher eftimation on his Riches than 
on Remiffion of Sin.and did love them more than 
Heaven and feliowfhip with God in eternal Life* 
In all this let it be confidered,that albeit Mens 
confidence in their Works, doth dilpleafe 'God ; 
good Works do not difpleafe Him,but they 
are io far pleafant unto Him, that- there is no 
moral Motive which may ferve to ftk up in His 
People,an endeavour to follow after good Works, 
which the Lord doth not make ule of; partly ,by 
(etttng before them the Reward if they o; 
partly, by fetting Puriifliments before their 1 
if they obey not: "yea, and the very Obfervation 
of external rnor&I Duties and Obedience 5 fuch as 
may be difibharged by the unregehera't Man (al- 
beit God in relation to Juftification do efteem it 
polluted »and vile) yet He dothibmetimcs reward 
their external Works, by giving them externa! and 

oral BenefitS'for their encouragement: 
zvznAba&s temporary Huniiihnon the Lord ib 
>ed ; thar there ♦ 

- d 



BOOK!. I'xxf CHAP, m 

delay to take Vengeance upon him, 1 Kings 2,1, 
27, x8, 2,9. Likewiie the Lord uieth to recorn- 
pence the civil juftice of Pagans with a temporal 
Re ward, yea and to reward the outward Diligetace 
ery Man in every lawful Occupation/ with 
feme anfwera tie outward Reward. 

The very Pharzfees, who for the railing to 
themlelves a Fame and higher Eftimation for Ho- 
linefs, did take a great deal of pains, in Prayers 
in the Streets and .Mcrcat-places, and other Exer= 
cifes of Religion, wanted not an anfwerable Re- 
ward; Verily (faith Chrift) thy have their Reward, 
Matth. 6. z. 

And this Courfe the Lord doth keep, that He 
may entertain & fofter the civil fociety of Men 
among themfelves, and that His People, looking 
on this Bounty of God,may be ft irredup the more 
tc» bring forth the Fruits of Faith,in hope of amei> 
ciful promifed better Reward of Grace in the Life 
to come, befide what they may have in this Life, 

C H A P. VL 

Of the Covenant of Grace. 

THE Third and '.Laft Covenant concerning 
Han's eternal Salvation, is the Covenant 
of Grace, made between God and Man, 
through CL ; Mediator. 

Grace, fometiffies fimply and abfolutely taken, 
is oppofed to Merit ; and in this fenfe,every good 
thing,, which of God's gece .re is ordained^ 



BOOK I. [ 116 ] CHAP. VI, 

or promifed,or actually beftowed on the Creature, 
prefuppofe innocent, is called Grace: Becaufe it 
is impoflible that a meer Creature, can properly 
merit any good thing of God; becaufe the Crea- 
ture neither hath,nor can have,that which it hath 
not received, Rom. n. 35. Who hath fir ft given to 
him, and it [hall he recommenced to him -again. 

Sometime Grace is taken for every Gift or Good 
beftowed by God upon the ill Deferver: In which 
fenfe, Gifts,common to Eledt and Reprobate,are 
called by the name of Grace. Rom.u>. Efhef.q.j. 

Sometime Grace is taken in opposition to the 
pa&ional Merit of Works,or to the Reward due 
by Debt covenanted, as Rem. 4.4. To him that 
worketh, the Reward is not reckoned of Grace, hut of 
Deht. In Which fenfe, That which is given for 
Works, is not given of Grace, Rom. 11. 16. and 
in this fenfe we take Grace as it is oppofed to the 
Covenant of Works: For, the Condition of the 
Covenant of Works, is the giving perfed: Obe- 
dience to the Law; but the Condition of the Co- 
venant of Grace, is the receiving of Chrifl by 
Faith unto Righteoufnefs and Life, offered in the 
Gofpel, without the Works of the Law ; which 
Covenantjnay thus be defcribed, The Cove- 
nant of Grace is a Contrad: between God andMen, 
procured by Chrifl upon thefe Terms, that who- 
foeverinthe fenfe of their own finfulnefs fhall 
receive Chrift Jefus offered in the Gofpel, for 
Righteoufnefs and Life, fhall have Him and all 
the Benefits purchafed by Him> according to the 

60*- 



BOOK I. [ i% 7 ] CHAP. VI. 

Covenant of Redemption ; and that God will be 
his God, and the God of his Children. This 
Covenant of Grace is founded upon the Cove- 
nant of Redemption, paft between God and Chrift, 
wherein it was agreed, that all theEleit given 
unto Chrift, ihall be reconciled in due time to 
to God, and that to this end, this Grace Ihould 
be preached to bring about the Reconciliation ; 
and therefore Chrift is called the Mediator of the 
new Covenant, Heb. n. zz. 

Of Infants Inter eft in this Covenant. 
G#C/?.T7[THat Intereft have Infants in this Co- 
V V venant > 

Anf. The fame which they had fince the firft 
exprefs and formal making thereof with Abraham, 
to whom God promifed to be his God, and the 
God of his Children, whofe Children all ar$, 
who are in Chrift, Gal. 3. 27, z8, 29. 

For, of the Redeemed (ome come to Age,whom 
God,having called by the Preaching of the Go- 
fpel, doth induce and effectually move, to em- 
brace folemnly the offered Fellowlhip with God 
and His Saints in Chrift, and to confecrat tfiem- 
felves and their Children unto theferviceofGod. 
There are other Redeemed Ones,wko die in their 
infancy, before they come to the ufeofReafon, 
to whofe Salvation God hath exprefs refped:, in 
making His Covenant with their Parents, that 
He will not have them excluded from the Blet 
fing, when He calls theirParcnts toHrm, but 



•BOOK I. t i*8 ] CHAP. IV. 

. in the common Cfier of Grace and Reconciliation 

: by thrift. He - promife jointly to Ae 

Parents and -the Chile; or, ino fcoittcfc, 

{ £!kI -with one Breath, Ut faith, /will 

le thy Gotland thy Seeds after thee^Gtw. 15. -ij 

whereofthe/ippliv ufc, Ails z^q 

declaring the Promife to be n^deto the Jews and 

-their Children, and to the- called Gentiles znd 

their Children, And upon this gound Tad and 

Silas, timeoufly did offer ation to the Jai- 

lour, trembling and anxious whatwayheihould 

be fayed, Ails r 6, 3 1 faying,, Believe hi Chrijl 

■ Jefus, andthoufhaltbefaved^thouandthy Houfh, 

As for the manner how the Lorddealeth with 
Infants' ail converting theni, the 

- ipture doth not fpeak, for this li; S rjg the 

d,> which doth not. concern 11s 
fsarch after, Dent. 29. 29. kfhouU befqff;: 
to us, that God in covenanting with %\i 
promifeth to be the God of their .Children. 
according to this Covenant the Lord complains 
of their faying and offering their Children unto 
Idols,c3iiingthem His. own Sons and Daughters, 
Ezek. 16. zo pqn this grouty -Se- 

cond Command, the Lord prornifeth to i 
Mercy to the Thoufarid Generation of believing 
Parents j and, 1 Con 7. 14. tl lie doth 

call the Children of one of the Parents believing, 
■Holy Children,- becaufe of their Confeeratiqn 
to God by the believing co^fedt. 

Ira 



BOOK l [ 119 ] CHAP. VI, 

in regard of God's Right and Iiitercft in them, 
as the Children of His own Family by Covenant. 
Arid Chrift out Lord upon this gtound, 
doth call the Children of confederat Parents, 
Burgefles of Heaven; of fuch is the Kingdom of 
Heaven, Matth, 19. 13, 14. and becaufe In- 
fants are dedicat to Chrift, to be taught and go- 
verned by Him in His own way and order, they 
are called Difciples, Atts ij. 10. astheDifpu- 
ters for the Circumdfion of Chriftians Children, 
as well as of their Parents after the Law ofMofes- 
do make it maniftft : And in the inflicution of 
Baptifm,our Lord gives the priviledge of the Co- 
venant unto every Nat?on,no lefs than to the jews, 
that by Covenant whole Nations might be drawn 
in, and given up as Difciples to His Do&rine, 
Matth. 28. 29. make all Nations Difciples by 
your Do&rine, Baptizing them, &c. that the 
Children with the Parents, might be Partakers 
by Baptifm, of the feal of the Covenant for the 
Righteoufnefs of Faith, no lefs than the Children 
of Ifraelites were by Circumcifion. 

Of the Means to draw on the making of this 
Covenant. 

OF thefe Means we have fpoken in the Fourth 
Article of the Covenant of Redemption, 
and need not to infift more about them than to 
name them. 

The Firji Mean to draw Men into this Wefled 
Covenant, and to keep them in it^ is the exter- 



BOOK I. [ 130 ] CHAP. VI. 

nal Revelation of the Will of God, for teaching 
Men how great their Sin and Mifery island how 
they may be reconciled and delivered by the 
Grace of our Lord jefus Chrift, and how they 
may tellitie their Thankful nefs (being reconciled) 
forYuchaMercy; which Grounds of Saving 
Knowledge, are fully and faithfully fetdown in 
Holy Scripture, and committed to His Servants 
in the Miniftry, who fhould in Preaching of the 
Gofpel, inform and perfwade Men to Repent and 
embrace the Grace of Chrift,andput onHisfweet 
Yoke of Obedience upon them. 

The Second Mean is, after application of the 
Lord's Word to the Hearers for convincing them 
of Sin in them, and Righteoufnefs in Chrift and 
Judgement to follow, to wit, of Abfolutionof the 
Believer, and of Condemnation of fuch as be- 
lieve not. To receive into the bond of this Co- 
venant of Grace,all that appear ferioufly to con- 
fecrat themfelves and their Children to the Faith 
and Obedience of the Dodtrine of our Lord Je- 
fus Chrift, without determiningwhether they be 
Regenerat for the prefent or not. 

The Third Mean, is the folemn Sealing of this 
Covenant, for Righteoufnefs of Faith and Salva- 
tion through Chrift, by Baptizing both the Pa- 
retics that accept the Covenant, and their Children 
alfo ; and by Exhortations,Promifes andCommi- 
nations, and all other Arguments, which may 
more and more convince them of their need of 
Chrift, and duty of following Him, to fix and 

ftrength- 



BOOK I. [ 131 ] CHAP. VI. 

ftrengthen their hearty purpole to cleave unto the 
Lord.Such as are,the Lord's Command to believe 
in Chrift and lore one another, \Joh 3. 23. and 
His threatening, if they believe not, Job. 3. 18. 
and, 1 Job. j. 10, it. 

The Fourth Mean, is the gathering of thefe 
that have embraced this Covenant, into all law- 
ful & poflible Church-communion with other His 
Difciples, and fixing them in their leveral Con- 
gregations, that they may be edified under their 
Offerers, appointed by Chrift in His Tefta- 
ment in their moft holy Faith, and obedience 
of all His Ordinances. And for further clear- 
ing the way of God's bringing the vifible Church 
of Chrift into this Covenant with Himfelf, let it 
be confidered. 

1. Albeit of thofe that are come to the u(e of 
Reafon, with whom God doth formally and fo- 
lemnly make this Covenant of Grace and ketitrk* 
ctltation, many are externally only called, and few 
m comparifon chofen, Matth. 20. 21. yet, it is 
not the will of God, odierways than by Doc- 
trine to feparat the Eied from the reft of them 
that are externally called, or to make the Ele&s 
name known to the World .♦ For, the Kirk know- 
eth not, but God only knoweth who are His, 
2 Tim. 2, 19. And therefore He hath ordain- 
ed Means common to the Eled and Repr0b2.ce, 
to bring both unto the external embracing of His 
Covenant and continuing externally therein, and 
He dosh bellow Gifts both to the one fore and 



BOOK I. [ 131 ] CHAP. VI. 

to the other, and He vvorketh in both the one 
fort and the other according to His own Will : 
But as for inward and effectual Calling, oivfpecial 
laving Graces which do accompany Salvation, and 
the fpecial Operations of the holy Spirit, Here- 
ferveth to the EleM and Redeeme d only,to whom 
in a time acceptable, He revealeth Himfelf, and 
fealeth them for His own Service 

z. By this wife and holy dealing with the 
Hearers of the Gofpel, whereby the Lord fo makes 
good the Covenant of Redemption,and bringeth 
His Decrees to pafs, as none lhall havejuftrea- 
fon to ftumble ; no wonder, that many be com- 
pared within the Draught-net of the Gofpel,and 
be moved to enter into this holy and blefled Co- 
venant, of wljom there may be Eledt, not as yet 
converted, whereupon by God's appointment, 
followeth a folemn covenanting of all that con- 
fent to the Condition of the Covenant, and pro- 
fefs their Faith in Chrift : All whom ( with their 
Children) Chrift tranflates from the Pagan World, 
into His vifibic Kingdom and fellowfhip of His 
Church militant, and grants unto them right to 
the common Priviledges of Citizens, in the order 
appointed in His Word, that keeping all lawful 
and poffible communion with the Catholick vifi- 
ble Chinch of Chrift, they may be edified in their 
particular Congregations, and governed with o- 
thers by Ecclefiaftical Difdpline. 

3 . Together with thefe external Means ferving 
for drawing on the Covenant and going on in it, 

the 



BOOK I. C 133 ) CHAP. VI 

the common Operations of God do concur ; com- 
mon to all the called, both Eleit and Reprobat, 
and Gifts common to both, are bellowed, ilichas 
Illumination, moral Perfwafion, hiilorycal, dog- 
matical and temporary Faith,moral change of af- 
fections, and fome fort of external amendment 
of their outward Converfatioii, SavhtgGrace be- 
ing the fpecial Gift of God to His own. 

4. Of this manner of covenanting and tak- 
ing into Church-fellowihip all the Called that 
confent in a moral way to dtfi condition of the 
Covenant Regenerat and Uuregenerar, we have 
a patemin the Lord's covenanting with all Ifrael, 
Exod. 1 9. the Covenant is offered to all the Ifrael- 
ites without exception, All are invited to enter 
in Covenant without exception,Arguments, Mo- 
tives and moral Inducements are made ufe of, 
from their experience of the Lord's Goodnefs and 
Gifts given to them before ; mod ample Promifes 
offpiritual Benefits, are made unto them, condi- 
tionally to be bellowed on them both in this Life 
and in the Life to come, Ferf.4, 5,6. the People 
embrace the condition of the Covenant, V, 7, 8. 
the People are ian&ified, and prepared to receive 
the holy Commands and Will of.God, in the reft 
of the Chapter; then, in the 20 Chapter and in 
the reft of the Book, the Duties of the Covenan- 
ters are propounded,which concern the.acknow- 
ledgeinent of Sin and deferved Death ; and thefe 
alfo .which concern obtaining of Juftincation and 
San£incationby Chriil, and which concern their 

" I 3 ftievx- 



BOOK I. ( 134 ) CHAP. VI. 

Jhewing forth their Thatikfulnefs, all the days 
of their Life. 

The fame Covenant, after Fourty Years is re- 
peated and renewed by Mofes, a little before his 
Death in the Land of Moab, Deut. z$. the Lord 
commands Mofes to renew the Covenant with all t 
the People, Verf 1. all the People oflfrael, are 
gathered together, Regenerat and Unregenerat, 
Verf z. the fum of Arguments and Motives to 
enter in Covenant of new, isihortly fetdown, 
Verf 3. thegreateft part of the People to be join- 
ed to God in Covenant, are openly declared by 
Mofes to be Unregenerat, Verf 4. 

After that, Arguments areufed to move them, 
in all time coming, to truft in the Lord and to 
obey Him. to Verf 9. the Covenant is made with 
the Heads of the Tnbes,and Elders of the People, 
and their Governours, and with all the Men of 
IJrael, with their little Ones, with the Women, 
and with the Strangers that were in themidft of 
their Camp, Verf 10, 11. the Covenant is folem- 
nized with adjuration of all to keep the Condi- 
tions thereof, Verf n, 13. the Covenant is ex- 
tended with adjuration to the Pofterity, Verfi^. 
15. neither is there any exception made, orex- 
clufion of any that contented to the Covenant, 
whether unregenerat Ifraelites or Strangers, but 
all are admitted within this Covenant/ 

The fame way of covenanting did John Bap- 
f//? follow, admitting to his Baptifm theSealof 
this Covenant, all thofe that came from Jerufa- 



iem. 



BOOK I. [ 13? ] CHAP VI. 

km, and out of all Judea, and from the Borders 
bi Jordan, without exception; whofoever con- 
fefled their Sins, or that they were Sinners, and 
profefled they did receive the Offer of Grace, 
made in the Name of Chriftjefus, the true Lamb 
of God that takes away the Sins of the World, 
Matth. 3. 5, 6. and Co far was John from waiting 
for Evidences of faving Grace and Regeneration, 
before he admitted them that came to his Bap- 
tifm, into the Fellowfhip of the external Cove- 
nant of Grace and Reconciliation,that on the con- 
trair, he made publick profefflon, that the Fan 
whereby the Chaff is feparated from tlfc Wheat, 
and the Hypocrite difccrned from the fincere 
Chriftiaft, was not in his Hand, or in any other 
Man or Mens Hands, but in the hand 01 Chrift 
Jefus Himfeif only. And therefore (which is 
worthy to be obferved) after he had publickly 
teftified his fufpicion of the Hypocrifie and old 
poyfonable Difpofition in the Pharifeesznd Sadu* 
ces that came to hisBaptifm, and offered to re- 
ceive the Covenant of Grace and the Seal there- 
of, Ferf. 7. forthwith, without enquiring into 
their Regeneration and fincerity of Heart, he 
Baptized them among the reft, r. 11, and left 
them to be examined thereafter by Chrift Him- 
feif, whether they were upright in Heart or not. 
The fame way of gathering Members of the 
yifible Chriftian Churches out of the W r orld,did 
Chrift f s own A poftlcs follow in His own Com- 
pany, Chrift Himfeif being prcfent bodily, be- 

I 1 hold' 



BOOK I. ( 136 ) CHAP. VI. 

holding and approving their Baptizing of Mul- 
titudes, who after hearing of Qirift's Sermons, 
offered to receive Baptifm, and went down to 
the Water Arnpn, where Chrift's Apoftles did 
make and baptize moe Difciples than John, Job. 
4. r. that is, they admitted Multitudes into the 
holy Covenant, and fealed the fame with Bap- 
tifm, taking noftrider courfe of Examination 
of them than John did, but admitting all that 
"craved the benefit of the Covenant and the feal 
ofit,though they had no certain evidence of their 
Regeneration, being (atisfied, thatChrift did not 
forbid to baptize them, when He faw them go 
down to the Water to be baptized, after hearing 
his Sermon. Now, thereisnoqueftionHeknew 
their Hearts all of them, and that many of them 
would afterward fhortly make defection from 
Him, and depart from Him, and from His Dif- 
ciples fellowfhip, as is plain, Job. 6. 6. 66, 70 
This way of receiving into external Covenant, 
all thcfe who receive the Offer and the Condi- 
tion of the Co venant,without enquiring into their 
Election or Reprobation, their Regeneration or 
Unregeneration for the time, (which may be 
called a covenanting outwardly and in the letter ) 
in the deep and wife Counfel of God is appoint- 
ed for the gathering and conftitution of the vi- 
able Kirk .• For, by this Mean,/vr/?, God fo ex- 
ecuted! and perfec9:eth the Decree of Ele&ion, 
that in the mean time He hindereth none, of all 
the Hearers of the Gofpel, from receiving the 
1 ' ' - " ' ■ ■ rf ' ■ Grace 



BOOK I. [ 137 ] CHAP. Vi. 

Grace of Chrift offered therein. He excluded! 
no Man from embracing the Covenant ; hut, 
on the contrair, He opens the Door to all that 
are called, to enter into( as it were ) the outer 
Court of His dwelling Houfe, that they may Co 
draw more near to Htm; and fo He doth not 
particularly manifeft any Mans Reprobation. 

Secondly, By this means alfo He hideth the E- 
le&ion of theEle£t from others, and from them- 
£elves,tillthey repent their Sins and flee so Chrift, 
and bring forth fome Evidences of their Election, 
in their obedience of Faith & begun Sanftification. 

Thirdly, The Lord makes life of this outward 
and common Covenanting with all Receivers of 
the Offer, as a Mean to draw the confederat in 
the Letter, to be confederat in the Spirit: For,the 
Faith which He requires as the condition of the 
Covenant, He worketh in the Ele^if nor before, 
or with the external Covenanting,yet undoubted- 
ly after,iiva time acceptable, and that by the or- 
dinary Means, the ufe whereof is granted to all 
confederat externally: Aud fo as common Illu- 
mination is a Mean to that fpeciaL fpiritual and 
faving Illumination ; and dogmatical or hiftori- 
cal Faith, is a Mean unto faving Faith; and ex- 
ternal Calling, is a Mean to effectual Calling: So 
external Covenanting in the Letter, is a Mean 
moll fit and accommodat, to make a Man a 
Covenanter in the Spirit. 

Fourthly, This external Covenanting, wheroin 
God promifeth to be the Believers God,and the 

God 



BOOK I. [ 138 ] CHAP. VI. 

God of their Children, is a Mean not only to 
beget and fofter Faith in the covenanting Parents, 
for their own Salvation, but alfo a Mean to com- 
fort them about the Salvation of their Infants, 
dying in their Infancy, whether before or after 
their Baptifm ; and a Mean to give them good 
hope of thofe Childrens blefled Refurre£tion,by 
vertue of the Promife, becaufe in Covenanting, 
the Lord doth promife to be the Believer's God, 
and the God of his Children,& doth not exadt the 
condition of actual Faith from their dying Infants. 

From thefe Grounds, it followeth, F/rfl .'That 
fome are taken externally and conditionally o 
the Covenant, upon their Engagement unto t : 
Righteoufnefs of Faith, and their Baptifm 
of their Engagement unto it, who alfeeit they be 
not as yet regenerat, yet they are to be eUeemed 
Members of the Church,and ChrittianS outward- 
ly ,Chriftians by Calling, and in tlie Letter, whpfe 
Praife is of Men,as they were-alib in the Church 
before Chrifl's coming, Jews outwardly and in 
the Letter, whofe Praife was of Men, commen- 
ded indeed for fo much.- But if they came not 
up to lay hold upon,and follow after, Righteouf- 
nefs by Faith, were not Jews in God's account, 
and unto them Circumcifion was but in the Let- 
ter, and the fealing of the Engagement only, and 
not of the good Things covenanted. A?w.2. 2.8,29. 

Secondly, It followeth, that there are fome 
Covenanters outwardly and inwardly alfo, in 
the Flefli and in the Spirit alfo, whofe -Praife 

is 



BOOK I. [ 139 ] CHAP. Vi. 

4s not of Men only, but of God alfo, to wit, 
fuch'as not only hare engaged to fulfil the 
Condition of Living in the Faith, and fol- 
lowing after the Righteoufnefs of Faith, but are 
Performers really of their Engagement, anc( unto 
thofe their Baptifm is not only outward and in 
the Flefh, but inward alfo, in the Spirit alfo, ap- 
proven of God alfo. Such as were in the vifible 
Church of old, Jews inwardly, Performers of 
their Engagement to live by Faith, Jews in the 
Spirit, arid not in the Letter only, whole Praife 
was of God, and not ofMen only. Rom. z. z8, z$>. 
Thirdly, It folio wcth, that ibme are in the Co- 
venant abfolutdy, or without condition requi- 
red of them for their part, whom God taketh in 
His own Hand abfolutely, fuch as are Elecft In- 
fants, dying itl their Infancy, for whom, that 
they might be delivered from original Sin, and 
deferved Wrath, Chrift hath engaged and laid 
down His Life, and promifed in the Covenant to 
be their God ; whom therefore ere they die,He 
doth immediatly quicken and fandtify, and tran£ 
lateth to Heav en after Death ; Offich (faith Chrift) 
is the Kingdom of Heaven, Mark 10. 14. 

Hew the external Difpenfat/on of the Covenant of 
old, differ eth from that which noiv is under the 
Gofpel 

ALbeit the Covenant of Grace in it felf, be 
one and the fame, from the firft preaching 
of it in Paradke, unto the end of the World,be- 

caufe 



BOOK I. [ 140 ] CHAP. VI 

caufe Chrift the Saviour of His People, is one 
and the fame, Y efterday and to Pay, and; for 
ever, and becaufe the Faith of theEled is of ; one 
kind, and was and fliall be to the World's end • 
yet, the external out-letting and difpenfation of 
the Covenant differeth, as it was propounded 
before Chrift's Incarnation and after it : For, in 
Taradicc this Covenant was fet forth by way of 
Promife, (according to the Articles of the Cove- 
nant of Redemption) that Chrift ihpuld aflume 
the Seed of the Woman, and fliould fuffer in the 
Flefli, or humane Nature, and by His Power de- 
ftroy the Works of the Devil, in favours of His 
own chofen People, which fliould niilitat againft 
the Devil under His Banner. 

x. And left any Man fliould fancy, that the 
Covenant of Grace, founded upon this Pronnfe, 
was made with all the Pofterity of Adam^s the 
Covenant of Works was made with Adam and 
all his Pofterity, the Lord, in the uttering of 
the Promife, did not direct His Speech unto A- 
dam and £W;,but to the Devil by way of threat- 
ning, and curfing him and his Seed, even ail the 
Rebrobate, in the audience of Adam and Evah, 
that our firft Parents over-hearing the Curfe of 
the Serpent and his Seed, and the Promife of 
Chrift's Incarnation, in laying hold upon thePro- 
miferby Faith, might be juftified and faved as 
private Perfons, after the fame way as other Pe- 
lievers 1 after them, fliould bejuftified and faved. 
This their Faith in Chrift", the lord 4id fofter 

and 



BOOK L [ 141 3 CHAP. Vi; 

and augment by His Doftrinc taught unto them,' 
and ..by the perlcr;bing typica; Sacrifices to be of- 
fered in Faith to God for remiffion of Sins: And 
the Lord did admit their Children into, the ex- 
ternal Fellowfhip of this Covenant, without put- t 
ting difference between one and another outward- 
ly, as we fee in Cain and Abel: Of which two, 
the one, to wit, Cain, was a Covenanter in the 
Flefli outwardly, and in the Letter only; for he 
was deftitute and void of faving Faith; the other, 
to wit, Abel, was both outwardly and inwardly 
a Covenanter, not in the Letter only, but in the 
Spirit alfo, : ,indued with lively juftifying and fav- 
ing Faith in Chrift to be incarnat, and to die for 
His own People, as the Apoftlc teftificth,reckon- 
ing him up among Believers juftified by Faith 
Heb. ix. 4. 

3. After the Flood, God did not make the Co- 
venant with every Man, nor with any Family 
byway of explicitc and formal padtion, except- 
Abraham and his Family only, of whom the Mef- 
fiah, God the Mediator, was to come according 
to the Flefli; and with him the Lord confirmed 
the Covenant, by adding unto it the Sacrament 
of Qrcumcifion, as the Seal of RiglKeoufnefc 
and Juftificatipn b.y Faith. 

4. In the Wildernefs at Mount Sinai, that the 
Lord might make evident the nece/lky of JuflLi- 
ficationby Faith in Chrift jo came, He did re- 
peat the Law of Works $ and , to them that did 
acknowledge their Sin, lie didftc forth Chrift 

rhctr' 



] 



BOOK I. [ t&* ] Cft A P. VL 

their Deliverer, under the vail of Sacrifices and 
Levitical Tipes, and the very fame is the Cove- 
nant now, whereunto Chrift and His Mmifters, 
laying afide the vail of the Ceremonies, did o- 
penly invite their Hearers, that acknowledging 
their Sins, and renouncing confidence ih then? 
own power and worth, they fhtfuld cstft them- 
felves into the Arms of Chrift the Saviour, that 
through Him they might obtain Juftification and 
Life eternal. We fee here indeed a divers manner 
of difpenfing, and outward managing the mak- 
ing of the Covenant with Men, but the Cove- 
nant wasftill the fame, cloathed andfet forth iri 
a diverfe manner, and did no other ways differ 
then and now, but as one and the felf fame MM 
differed! from himfelf, cloathed futably one way 
in his minority,and another way in his riper Age; 
5. If the Covenanters therefore be compared 
among themfelves, in refpedt of divers difpen^l 
fatioh^the Covenanters iiVSpif it aftef Chrift's In- 
carnation, are in a better Condition, than the 
Believers before Chrift's coming ; For, the Be- 
lievers before Chrift incarltat under the pedagog 
of the Lavv/did lye under a Servitude and Bon- 
dage as to the outward Man, for then the Sons 
and Heirs not come to age, -did differ nothing 
from Servants, Gal. 4. 1. and in regard of the 
inward Man; they faw the Miftery df Salvation, 
. albeit fa vingly,yet more obfcurely 5 for through 
the Vail they (aw/the Miftery of Salvation to be 
had by Chrift ;' r buf after Chrift^ doming, the 

fcfifdr 

\ - 



BOOK I. [ i 4 ? ] CHAP. VI. 

Lord dealt more liberally With Believers,becaufe 
by their Freedom from the levitical Ceremonies, 
taking away the Vail, they may behold with o- 
pen Face the Glory of the Lord, as in a Mirror, 
and be transformed into the fame Image, from 
Glory to Glory, even as by the Spirit of the 
Lord, z Cor. 3. 18. 

6. But as for what concerns the Covenanters 

in the Letter and outwardly only, they are in 

worfe condition after the coming of Chrift,then 

the literal Covenanters before His Incarnation .- 

For, the Unregenerat under the Gofpel, are in 

danger of more heavy Judgement, then the 

uncircumcifed in Heart were before Chrift came, 

in regard it is a greater Sin to negled: and defpife 

Chrift fpeaking from Heaven, in the more clear 

i Manifeftation of Himfelf in the Gofpel, than it 

! was before Chrift came to contemn the darker 

? Do&rine of Mofes, Heb z. 3. and 10, xo. 

Concerning the Condition of the Covenant. 

IN Receiving or Admiffion of Perfons,wio are 
come to the ufe of Reafon into t^ Cove- 
nant, thefe Three Things are to be o^erved and 
diftinguifhed one from another ; fcrft the Con- 
dition of the Perfon defiring to« 5e hi Covenant 
with God for Reconciliation 11 ^ Grace through 
Chrift ; z. The Cond^io* upon which he is en- 
tered in Covenant ; 3. TAe Condition required of 
him, for evidencing of his fincere Covenanting. 

The 



BOOK I. [ 144 3 CfiAP. Vl. 

The Firfi Condition required of the Man who 
defireth to enter in the Covenant of Reconciliati 
6n,is the acknowledgement of his Sins ; for, ex 
cept a Man confefs himfelf a Sinner and unable to 
help himfelf, Chrift reje&eth him^ and will have 
nothing to do with him for Chrift hath faid, t 
tame not to call the Righteous, but Sinners to Re 
penttnee Matth. 9. 13. 

As for the Next, the Condition of the Cove- 
nant upon which the Man is received, and where* 
by the Man becometh aconfederat, itishis 
confent to receive the Grace offered, even Chrift 
with His Benefits, as He is holden forth in the 
Gofpel : or, the condition of the Covenant is 
Faith, receiving Chrift for RighteouCiefs and e- 
ternal Life. 

As for the Third,the Condition required of the 
Man now entered in the Covenant, for evidenc- 
ing the truth and fincerity of the Faith, which the 
Covenanter profefleth, it is the taking on him 
tha Yoke of Chrift, which He layeth on his con- 
fedetit People ; or, this Condition, is the Cove- 
nanters ^p.gi v ing of himfelf to Chrift's govern- 
ment, ana n b ec |i enc c of His Commands: And all 
thefe Three ^ r c exptefled by Chrift, Matth. 
11. 28. 19. 

Firfl, They th*.. labour, and are heavy laden, 
are they whom ChriK calleth unto a Covenant 
and Fello wflii p of His %' A -e. 

Secondly, He propounds tte Condition of the 
Coyenantto wit, that they believe in Chrift, or 



BOOK I. [ i4jr ] CHAP. VL 

come unto Him,that in Him they may find full re" 
lief from Sin and Mifery, and in Him fullRigh- 
teoufrtefs and Felicity. 

Thirdly, He requires of them who do embrace 
Him by Faith, and fb have accepted the Condition 
of the Covenant, that they give evidence of their 
Faith in Him,by taking on of His Yoke on them; 
Take My Toke upon you, faith He. 

All tliefe Three a Covenanter indie Letter ex- 
ternally, will profefs to have, and to purpofe to 
follow ; but the true Covenanters in Spirit,have 
indeed all the Threes For true Faith in Chrift,or 
the Receiving of Chrift offered in the Evangel 
for Juftification and Salvation,which is the Con- 
dition of the Covenant,prefuppofeth the Condition 
of the Man who is called to embrace Chrift, and 
draweth after it the Condition required of the 
'Man covenanting ; For,he that receiveth Chrift 
for Righteouftiefs and eternal Life, of rieceffity 
muft- acknowledge bimlelf a Man; in himfelf Un- 
righteous, and a loft Man, and that he corfteth id 
Chrift tobejuftified, and Sanctified and Saved 
by Him ; and fo to perfevere in this eourfe ttnro 
Life eternal. 

Of the Terms whereupon this Covenant is offered and 
preffedin Scripture. 

THe Terms of the Covenant, ar£ diverfely 
propouned in Scripture, .EAW.19.5-.the Lor J 
propounds it thus, If ye will obey My Voice indeed, 
and keep My Covenant jhch ye fhall be a peculiar reo 1 
mto Me.- &c. 



book i. [ i 4 6 ] chap, vl 

In thefe words, the Condition required of thole 
that are already entered in Covenant is molt emi- 
nent : For, this People was in Covenant from the 
rime of Air .warns covenanting, and was admit- 
ted to rhe Sacraments before their coming forth of 
Egypt ; and therefore the Conditions previous 
to their entering in Covenant, and required for 
clofing the Bargain, are not fo much infilled on 
at this time. This condition the People . do ac- 
cept, and give anfwer to God by Mofes, Verf. 8. 
All that the Lord hath jpoken lve will do. 

Another Form and Expreffion isufed, Acls 16. 
3 r. Paul and Silas fay to the Jaliour, now anxi- 
ous how to be laved, Believe in the Lord, and thou 
(bah lefaved ; thou and all thy Houfe* The Jai- 
lour accepts of the Coadition,and he is Baptized 
and all hisKoufe. Verf. 33. 

The Condition of his Perfon taking with guil-- 
tinefs, and granting his loft condition is fpoken 
of, Verf. 37. the Condition of the Covenant 
therefore is propounded in the next room, and is 
accepted, whereupon Baptifm is adminiftred un- 
to him. 

Tfal %7. 8. In other words the fame Condition 
is propounded ; The Lord craveth Faith,feeking 
Communion with God for the Condition, Seek 
ye My Face ; the Ffalmift accepteth the Condition, 
and anf\vereth,77^ Face, Lord, ivi/lljeek. 

Ifa. 45-. 22,. Clirift requires Faith in thefe He 
calieth , and upon that condition promifeth Sal- 
V;Uipn, Lock unto Me, all ye Ends of the Earth, and 

u 



BOOK I. [ I47 ] CHAP. VI. 

leyefaved: The Anfwer of the Believer is fet 
down VerJ. 24. Surely (kail one fay, in the Lord 
have I Righteoufnefs and Strength 

Likeways the way of making this Covenant, 
is fet forth by Chrift, offering himfelf a Saviour 
on the one part,& the Believers receiving Chrift 
on the other pzrt,Job 1.11,12,^ many as receiv- 
ed Him, to them He gave power to become tht Soni 
ef God, even to them that helieve on His Name. 

And, 2 Cor. 5. 19. 20. upon this only Condi- 
tion of confenting to Reconciliation offered, he 
fummeth up mod fhortly and clearly the Cove- 
nant-making, We are Ambajjadours for Chrift, as 
if God did befeech you by us, iteprayyou inChrift^s 
flead, be reconciled to God. There remained] no 
more for making of the Covenant, but that the 
Hearer do honeftly anfwer, thus, The Offer and 
Condition pleafeth me well, I confent to be Reconcil- 
ed. Now he who confenteth to be Reconciled, r . 
Granteth his natural Enimity; 2. Accepteth Chrift 
the Mediator, Redeemer, Reconciler, offered to 
him by God, whofe Fulnefs is in Chrift ; And v 3. 
obliegeth himfelf to entertain this Fri'endihip 
all his Life after. 

Lad of all, the making of the Covenant, is 
fometime preffed to be received and followed un- 
der the Form of a Precept 1 Jch. 3. 23. This 11 His 
Command, that ye believe in the Name of His Sen 
Jefiis Chrift, and love one another as He hath Con:" 
manded us : In which Words, the Condition, or 
Eftate of the Perfon ; who is called to believe and* 

K r en-~ 



BOOK I. [ 148 ] CHAP. VI. 

enter in Covenant, is prefuppofed : For it is 
imported, that he muft acknowledge not only 
that he is a miferable Sinner, and unable to re- 
lieve himfelf, but alfo that he is naturally averfe 
from the way of feeking Righteoufnefs by Faith 
in Chrift, and hath need that the foveraign 
Power of God draw him to Chrift. Secondly ,the 
condition of the making of Covenant is propoun- 
ded, which is to believe in Jefus Chrift In the 
Third Room, the condition required of him that 
is entered in Covenant,by believing in Chrift,is, 
That we love one another as He hath commanded us. 

This offered and commanded Condition of the 
Covenant of Grace, fome by the Grace of God 
do accept, and engage to perform, and do per- 
form fincerely, albeit weakly; other fome, truft- 
ing id their own ftrength, engage unto the obe- 
dience of Faith, and with their Mouths profefe 
they are Sinners, and do believe in Chrift, and 
that they will fubmit themfelves to His Govern- 
ment,dra\vingnear to Him withrheir Lips, when 
their Hearts are far from Him; and foch Mens 
Faith changeth not their old Difpofitionand way 
of living, but it fuffereth them to ferve their 
Belly, or Mammon, or vain Glory, and luch 
other Idols ; yet becaufe the Church are not 
Judges of the Secrets of the Heart, they muft re- 
ceive into Church-fellowlhip, all who confefs 
themfelves to be Sinners, and ptofefs they do 
accept the Offer of Chrift's Grace, and promiie 
Subje&ion to His Ordinances. 

Oif. 



BOOK I. [ 149 1 CHAP. VI. 

Ohj. But how can the Church receive Men in 
Church-fellowfliip, who are deftitute of lively 
Faith > 

AnJ. The Church is not Judge of the Heart, 
or of the Secrets thereof, becaulc it cannot fee 
Faith in it felf, but muft look to the Profeffion 
of Faith, and to the Fruits thereof in the own 
order and time ; the Church is Witnefs to their 
Engagment, but not Judges of their Sincerity. 

2. The Covenant of Grace doth not exclude 
the moftvile Sinners, if they acknowledge their 
Sinfulne(s,and dofolemnly confent unto the Con- 
dition of the Covenant: Becaufe, according to this 
Coveriant,nothing is bellowed on theCovenanter, 
of Merit, but of Grace only, which the Church 
knoweth God can give, and (bmetimes doth give 
unto counterfit Confederals making them fincere 
in His own time, and that by the Means of the 
Ordinances, made ufe of in the vifible Church. 

3. It is one thing to be a confederat Chriftian in 
the Letter externally in the fight of Mcnjanother 
thing to be a Covenanter in the Spirit, inwardly 
in refped: of the Heart and inward Man. Bom. 2. 
28. and albeit the external Covenant doth not 
bring on Righteouinefs and Life, except a Man 
be aifo a Covenanter inwardly in his Heart, 
in the fer/e of Sin and Imperfection, making dai- 
ly ufe of Chrift; yet it is certain, that outward 
Covenanting is an ordinary, and blcflai Mean 
unto many, to beget and toiler Faith, and help 
forth the Fruits thereof. 

K 3 I* 



BOOK I. dso) CHAP. VI. 

It may and fliould fuffice us,that God, in the 
firft framing of a national Church, did admit, j 
and commanded Mofes to admit all the Ifraelites 
in Covenant,of whom very few were converted, 
or reconciled to God in their Spirit;and this was 
not hid from Mofes, or from the truely Godly 
in the Camp of Ifrael, as is plainly fhewentous, 
Deut. 2,8. 29, where God bears witnefs againft 
the People, that their Heart was not according 
to their Profeffion and Engagement : And Mofes 
fpeaketh out this Truth in all the Peoples audi- 
ence, while he is renewing the Covenant with 
them, notwithftanding they were Unregenerat 
pent. 29. 

Oij. Butfome will infift and tell us, that the 
vifible Church is a fociety of Saints or regenerat 
Perfons, and that they who live in the vifible 
Church, mud be vifible Saints, whofe Life at 
lead doth not contradid: their Profeffion, and 
fuch as by the Judgement of Charity we mud 
efteem Regenerat. 

Anf Chrift's vifible Church, is the Company 
of them that are called out of the World unto Him: 
the Company of them that are confecrat to God 
and engaged by folemn Covenant to follow the 
courfe of Holinefs : By calling they are Saints, 
albeit many of them may be found polluted in 
their Manners : thus doth God Himfelf teach us 
to judge, PfaL 50. f. Gather unto Me My Saints 
faith He,& who are thefe? Thefe who have made a 
Covenant with Me iySacrificeRowflt thefe,many 
"-■'■- did 



BOOK I. [ i?i ] CHAP. VI. 

did not worfhip God in Spirit,but placed all their 
Religion in Ceremonies,and went about by their 
outward Sacrifices to pacific God, and to expi- 
at thpir Sins, as is plain Verf 7. 8. others of 
thefe called Saints, confecrat unto God,andjoyn- 
cd with Him in a vifible Covenant, were very 
wicked, who noways behaved themfelves as be- 
came Covenanters with God ; and who there- 
fore were to be excluded from the Benefit of the 
Coyenant,except they repented : For, they hat- 
ed true Holine(s,and did caft; the Commands be- 
hind their back, Verf. 16. were Thieves and A- 
dulterers, Slanderers & Calumniators of their Bre- 
thren, Verf. 18. 19. and yet for all this,the Lord 
doth not exclude them out of the vifible Church, 
but doth in a fatherly Manner reprove them, 
that they might Repent, and notPeriili. 

2. There is noqueftion, whether all in the vi- 
fible Church ought to be both in open Converfa- 
tion, and in Heart holy, and that they {hall cer- 
tainly be damned and perifh, that are not fuch ? 
but the Queflion is here, about the Duty of the 
Governoursof the Church, and of the Godly in 
in it, Whether they fhould exclude from Church- 
membcrfhip all who are not Regenerat, at lead 
fbtobe efteemed in the judgement of Charity > 
or, whether all are to be holden for Church- 
members and keeped within the Church,who are 
in Covenant with God, and fcaled with the feal 
thereof, to the intent that by Dodtrine and Cen- 
furesof the Church (fofar as may b? by means) 

K 4 they 



BOOK I. [ 152 ] CHAR VI. 

they may be Regenerat, and being Regenerate 
helped on in the way of Holinefs ? 

3. There is a difference to be put betwixt the 
Precepts,concerning the perfonal San&ification of 
every Man in himfelf, and the Precepts given for 
the governing of others,and keeping holy Socie- 
ty with the Called Saints, renewed or unrenewed 
in the vifible Church,fo far as God's Word giveth 
Light and Order .• For it is commanded to me 
and thee, that we purfue Peace and Holinefs, 
without which none Jhall fee the Face of God : 
but it is not commanded to me or thee, that we 
iliould keep no Church-fellowfhip in God's Or- 
dinances, except with the Regenerat. It is not 
commanded to the Governours of the Church, 
that they muft examine every Perfon concerning 
their Regeneration;' neither are they forbidden to 
admit any into the Society of the Church, fave 
thefe whom they efteern Regenerat; but they are 
commanded to bring in to the Church, all that 
oblige themfeives to be Chrift's Difciples, with 
their Children, and by the Means appointed of 
God, in Do&rine and Cenfures of the Church, 
to promove their Sandtification and Salvation: 
For fo many doth Chrift's Commiffion to the 
Pallors of the Church import. Matth. 28. 19 20. 

4. Regeneration is not (he juft meafure where- 
by to fquare the Dimenfions and Extent of the 
vifible Church; but, Confederation and Obfigna- 
tion of the Covenant by Baptifm: For the Church 
is Chrift's vifible Kingdom,\vhofe vifible Subje&s 

arc 



BOOK I. ( in ) CHAP. VI 

are all they who folemnly are engaged to fubjedt 
themfelves to His Do&rine and Government,and 
therefore the Church vifible is not to be defined, 
the Company of the Regenerat, but the Compa- 
ny of the Confederat with God, and called unto 
Holinefs : among whom, Chrift tells us, there 
are few Elect,and fo fewer Regenerat; and there- 
fore the Church of Chrift is compared to a 
Barn-floor, whereinto is gathered both the Chaff 
and the Wheat, both they that have Faith, and 
that prof els Faith, out of whom Chrift doth ga- 
ther his own Elect and Redeemed Ones. 

Obj. But at leaft in gathering of a Church out 
ofthe World, refpect mull: be had,that the con- 
tenting ofthe Covenanter be ferious : and how 
can the Confent be ferious, where the Heart is 
not fincere, where the Perfon is not Regenerat ? 
Such a Mans confent to the Covenant, as is 
without laving Faith, is but Fained, Counterfit, 
Hypocritical, and fuch a confent as may hinder 
the Man's Regeneration, and do nothing but pro- 
voke God's wrath againft the Man and the Re- 
ceivers or Admitters of him alfo. 

Anf. Serious is Ibmetime oppofed to Sport oc 
Play, and fo a Matter may be Serious which is 
in earned gone about, and is not openly Hiftrio- 
nical- And fometime Serious is oppofed to the 
intention of Fraud and Deceit; and fo that may 
be called Serious, which is done without a pur- 
pofe to deceive or beguile the Party. But when 
|he Confenter to engage in Covenant, fpeaketh 



BOOK I. [ i J4 ] CHAP. VI. 

as he thinketh, albeit poffibly his own Heart de- 
ceive him, his confent to the Condition of the 
Covenant may juftly be called Serious, becaufe 
he intends to deal in earneft, as in a weighty Bu- 
finefs. And fuch was the Confent of the People 
of Ifrael unto theCovenant made with God.£xi 9. 

Likewife, Count erfit and Hypocritical, is fome- 
time called fo, in oppofition to that which is 
real, true and fpiritual: And (b all confent to 
the Covenant of Grace, which doth not proceed 
from the Spirit of Regeneration, ^s butfained Faith, 
and indeed is notfaving Faith ; yet, it may be ■&- 
rious and morally Honeft, like Ifraels. ExoJ. 14. 
20. and Co fufficient to make a Covenant, and to 
tye an Obligation on the Man to fuch Duties as 
may lead to Salvation. 

Again, Fained, Counterfit, Hypocritical, is cal- 
led that which a Man purpofely doth fain, mak- 
ing fliew of that which he knows not to be, be- 
ing confcious to his own Wickednefs ; and fuch 
a fained Confent, we grant, doth provoke God 
againft fuch a Perfbn; but the Church is not Judge 
of this, Co long as they know not of this grofs 
Hypocrify. 

We hold then, that there may be, and ufually 
fall forth, fuch amoral Confent unto theCove- 
venant of Grace without fa ving Faith,which may 
be called a Serious, really honeft Confent, as ta 
the Agreement of the Mind and Mouth of the 
Covenanter, fuch as is found in ordinary civil 
Contra&s, between one Man and another, and 

muft 



BOOK I. ( iff) CHAP. VI. 

muft be acknowledged to be an external Church- 
covenanting with God, and with the reft of the 
Members of the Church : And fo the Confent 
in refpeft to the making a Covenants not fained, 
neither is it dilpleafmg unto God in the own kind, 
albeit it be not fufficient or acceptable to God un- 
to the Perfqns Salvation : For, (b much doth God 
Himfelf teftify (Dettt. j.) fpeaking of the Israelites, 
(who were ignorant of the Deceitfulnefs of their 
own Heart,and of their Inability to perform what 
they promifed) He faith, (Ver. 28, 29. ) They 
have well j aid, all that t key have fpoken. There- 
fore unto the tying a Man in this Bond of the Co- 
venant, this moral Honefty, is fufficient, albeit 
to Salvation it is notlufficient,butin order there- 
to a Mean of God's appointment. 

Now, that there isfuch a thing as we call mo- 
ral Integrity or Honefty ,which differcth from the 
true Chriftians fpiritual Honefty, or Sincerity, it 
is plain from thefe Places of Scripture,\vhich fpeak 
of this Integrity of Heart in fuch Perfons as were 
not renewed, becaufe they intended no other 
thing than they pretended. Thus Abimelech ex- 
cufeth himfelf to God, when he took away Sarah, 
Abrahams Wife from him, thinking Sarah had 
been his Sifter and not his Wife, Gen. 20. 6. In 
the Integrity of my Heart and Innocency of my Hands, 
have I done this. And this the Lordfdoth acknow- 
ledge to be true, Verf 1 7. So alio the Captains 
that came with their Companies to David in 
Ziklag, are faid to have a perfeft Heart.becaufe 

they 



BOOK I. [ 156 ] CHAP. VI. 

they were morally Honeft, and refblved as they 
profefled, uprightly to make David King, and 
to help him in the War, and not betray him, 1 
Chron. 12. 33, 38. 

Of the fundry ways of Mens framing of the Covenant 
of Grace. 

AS we told there was a Covenant of Works, 
one truely fo called of God's Inftitution; 
and another falfe fort of Covenant of Works, of 
Mans framing: So it is alfo in the matter of the 
Covenant of Grace, there is one truely fo called, 
& another fort falfe & counterfit of Man's fran> 
ing. That which is of God's framing, is the 
Covenant that God makes with the Church, for 
giving Righteoufnefs and Life by Faith in Jefus 
Chrift: That which we call a counterfeit Cove- 
nant, is the Covenant which Men frame unto 
themfelves upon any other Condition than Faith: 
Such was the counterfeit Covenant of the falfe 
Apoftles, who corrupted the Gofpel-covenant a- 
mong the Gallatians, whereof the Apoftle Paul 
complaineth, Gal. 1.6,7. challenging them that 
they had forfaken God, who called them to the 
Grace of Chriftand were turned over to another 
GofpeI,that is,to another Covenant of Grace than 
the true one, which is only one,andnot various,but 
by theTroublers of the Church was changed into 
another frame : For the true Covenant, was per- 
verted and corrupted by thefe who went about to, 
join together JuftiScation by Works, and Jufti- 

fi- 



BOOK I. [ 157 ] CHAP. VI. 

ficationby Grace through Faith in Chrift: Which 
two forts of Covenant, are inconfiftent, and do 
Mutually overthrow one another : So alfo did 
the Fharifee ( Luk. 18. 11, iz J corrupt and per- 
vert both the Covenant of Works and the Co- 
venant of Grace; he corrupted and perverted the 
Covenant of Works becaufe he put up to God 
fome external good Works for the perfect Obe- 
dience of the Law; and he perverted the Cove- 
nant of Grace, becaufe albeit he did acknow- 
ledge rhe Grace of God, and gave Him Thanks 
for giving him Ability and power to do good 
Works, and for lnfufing Habites of Piety and 
Juftice in him; yet he exalted himfelf, and 
took the Thanks and Praife to himfelf, who 
had made good ufe of thefe vertuous Habites. 
God I thank thee, (faith he ) that I am not like 0- 
ther Men, &c. 

2. Like unto this fault is the Error of many, 
of whom fome makes the Aft of Faith brought 
forth by the power of Natural Free-will to be 
the condition of thfe Covenant, contrary to the 
Dodtrine of the Gofpel, which makes Faith in* 
fufed to be the Gift of God renouncing its 
own Righteoufnefs and the Merit of all Works 
alfo: and refting on Chrift, to be the Condition: 
For, the fentence of the Apoftle ftandeth firm 
and immovable, Rom. 1 1. 16. If it le b\ Grace jit 
isno more of Works, &c. 

Other fome make this the Condition of the 
Covenantjthat Chrift flieuld pay for mortal Sins 

bv 



BOOK I. [ r 5 8 ] CHAP. VI. 

by his own temporal Sufferings, and fo take a- 
wayeverlafting Punifliment, but will have the 
Sinner himfelf to pay for venial Sins by tempo- 
ral Sufferings, partly in this Life, and partly ifi 

Purgatory. 

Other fome dream of framing the Covenant of 
Grace thus, If a Man do all the Good he is able, 
and hath a will to ferve God better than before, 
they conceive, that God muft take the Will for 
the perfect Deed, andfo for good Payment. 

Which counterfeit Conditions and other fucli 
like Inventions of felf-pleafing Conceits, are all. 
of them nothing elle but the adulterating both of 
the Covenant of Works,and of the Covenant of 
Grace appointed of God, by which Inventions 
Men deceive themfelves to their own Perdition. 

Now, that fuch perverting of the Covenant of 
Works and of Grace,are rife and frequent among 
Men, Experience may prove: For, before Chrift's 
coming this was the way of carnal Ifraelites, Rom r 
10. 3. and Rom. 9. 30. For they being ignorant of 
the Riqhteoufnefs of God, went about to eft ablifh their 
own inherent Righteoufnefs, and would not Jubjetl 
themfelves to the Righteoufnefs of God. And oi 
the Galatiansjtis fold. Chap. 5 ^.Chrifl is become 
of none effed unto you, whojoever of you arejuftified 
hy the Law, ye are fallen from Grace ; that is, ye 
who feek Righteoufnefs or Juftification by Works, 
have renounced fo far as in y6u lyeth Grace to 
be had by Chrift ;& Experience dail^ ffieweth the 
fame difoofition- in many profefled Chriftians. 



BOOK I, [ 159 ] CHAP. VI. 

Quefl. Are not then fuch Corrupters of the Co- 
venant of Grace loofed from their Obligation, 
wherein by their Baptifm they were tyedtofeek 
Righteoufnefs by Faith only \ 

An], No-* For, albeit by fo doing they prove 
themfelves to be Corrupters and Falfifiers of their 
Covenant, to their own perdition, if they repent 
not ; yet they ftand obliged ftill before God 
to their Covenant fealed in Baptifm : For,the Co- 
venant of God with Man, cannot bediflblved 
by Mens Treachery, and without God's Confent, 
not only becaufe the Covenant of God with 
Men, in regard of the perpetual Equity thereof, 
hath in it a perpetual Obligation, but aifo be- 
caufe the foveraign Dominion of God, hath the 
force of a Law to oblige them whom God hath 
taken in among His People, that being once His 
confederat fubje&s, they fhould remain ftill His 
Subjects :For,as Circumcifion was a Seal of cove- 
nanted Righteoufnefs by Faith, fo Baptifm is a 
Seal of the fame covenanted Righteoufnefs by 
Faith, whether the Covenanters remain conftant 
unto their Covenant, or not ; as we fee in the 
Ifraelites, who albeit they were polluted with I- 
clolatry in E^ypt, and albeit they proved rebelli- 
ous in the Wildernefs, and in the Land of pro- 
mife were found often guilty of breach of Cove- 
venant; yet, ftill in the Scripture they are called 
God's People, and the Lord's intereit and right 
in them,ftood fait, and their right alfo unto the 
external Priviledgcs of the Citizens of God's 

King- 



B06K I. [ 160 ] CHAR VI 

Kingdom, remained faft alfo, until the time that 
for their open and obftinat rejecting of Chrift, 
the Children of the Kingdom were caft out, and 
were broken off the true Olive Tree: Soalfo,the 
Obligation of the Baptized, who turn the true 
Covenant of Grace in another of their own fram- 
ing, doth ftill (land, tying them to perform the 
condition of the true Covenant ; and their Right 
to the external Priviledges of the Confederat,doth 
remain ftill in fome fort, even when they are in- 
ter-dited from the honourable pofleffiori thereof 
by Excommunication : For, the Apoftle teach- 
cth us, that the Excommunicat remain,as to their 
prefent Ecclefiaftick State, (albeit not as to their 
prefent Ecclefiaftick Condition) Citizens and 
Members of the Church, and fubject to Jurifdi* 
dtion Ecclefiaftical,and to Chrift's Difcipline; be- 
caufe when they are judged, and are tinder Cen- 
fure, they are faid to be within the Kirk, and not 
Without it, i. Cor. 5. xx. What have I to do to 
judge alfo them that are without? do not ye judge them 
that are within ? And thefe that were delivered 
unto Satan, as to their prefent external Condition, 
remained notwithftartding, as to their external 
flate, the Domefticks of God, tinder tire Dif- 
cipline of God's houfe, and were prefled by the 
Cenfure laid on them, to learn to ceafe from 
their finful courfe, and (penally from thefe Faults 
for which they were Cenfured and Corrected by 
their Excommunication, 1 Tim. 1.20. Hymeneus 
and Alexander were given over to Satan, that the) 

fniypt 



BOOK I. [ 161 ] CHAP. VI. 

wight learn not toBlafpheme ; that is, that being 
humbled and brought to Repentance, they might 
return to the acknowledgement of the Truth, and 
to a teverent fpeaking of Holy Things, and fo 
the Right to be counted Brethreh and Members 
of the Church ( albeit under Cenfure, Reftraint 
and Dif-refpe(3: till they repented) was not 
taken altogether from them, even under Excom- 
munication ; nor yet were the privat Duties of 
Charity, due to Brethren in that fearful 
Condition, to be altogether denied unto them, 
even when the pofleflion of the former Honour 
of blameleis Brethren, vyas taken frdm them; for, 
the Apoftle will have them,albeit Excommuni- 
cato be efteemed ftillcelifured Brethren,and not 
looked upon as Enemies/ z Thejf. 3. 14, 15. If 
any: Man ohey not our Word by this Epiftle, note 
tfefii Man ( to" wit by putting the Cenfure of Ex- 
communication on him) and have no company i faith 
him, that he >>. L amed\ yet count him not as' an 

Enemy, but ad ' im as a Brother : and this is 

lb much the more carefully 'to be obferved, 
that the cdnftitutiori of the' vfhble Church 
of fuch and fuel: Members, and the ufeof Ex- 
communication may be the better underftcod ; 
left the Excommunicato being overburdened by 
the fharpnefs of the Cenfure, fliould feem to 
themfelves altogether excluded fronV Church-fo- 
ciety, and fodefpair of returning to the full pof 
fe/Iion of their Priviledges, but might know 
that the Right of Citizens of the City of God, w: 

t: 



BOOK I. [ i6z ] CHAP. VI. 

referved unto them, and was to be reftored by 
way of pofleffion after their Repentance,and that 
they were not cut ofFfrom the, Chriftan Charity 
of the Brethren, no not when they were lying 
under the Sentence,that they might fo much the 
fboner return to Repentance^d to the pofleffion 
of their Ecclefiaftick Honour. 

Obj But here there arifeth a greater Doubt and 
Gbje&ionjiow, and upon what reafon, God doth 
require the condition of Faith, which Men can- 
not perform, except it be given of (jod, as the A- 
poftle teftifiieth, Ephef z. 8. Ton are faved of 
Grace by Faith, and that not oj your f elves , it is the 
Gift of God ? 

Anf The Equity of the Duty required, doth 
not depend upon Mens prefent Power or Strength 
of whom the condition is required, but upon this 
Ground, That Ability was given to Adam, and 
to \v.s pofterity in him : For,all injoined fervice, 
and fo the duty of believing in Chrift, is found- 
ed upon Man's natural Obligation to obey the 
Moral Law ; For, by vertue of the firft Com- 
mand, Adam was bound, and we in him, not on- 
ly to believe the Word of God already revealed 
unto him; but to believe alfo every Word of God 
to be revealed, and he was bound to give unto 
God the Glory of all His Attributes,notonly of 
tj ie which already did ihew forth thcmfelves 
in His Works,but alfo of thefe Attributes, which 
as yet did not put forth themfelves in actual ex- 
ercife : For as it cannot be denied.thatMan was 

bound 






BOOK I. f z6j ] CHAP. VI, 

bound to gire God the Glory of His avenging 
Juftice, upon His threatning toinflid the Puniih- 
ment of Death in cafe Man ihould fin, albeit he 
could not lee the execution of it before he fell, 
fo alio it is manifeft,he was bound to give God 
the Glory of His Goodnefs and Mercy, albeit 
no object of fliewing Mercy was yet to be founds 
And that partly, becaufe it was his duty to give 
the Glory of all Perfe&ions unto God, whereof 
Mercy is one; and partly,upon the Experience he 
had of God's manifefted Goodnefs in his Crea- 
tion,and God's making a Covenant with him a- 
bout eternal Life, upon fo eafie and equi- 
table Terms : Upon the fame ground, even after 
the Fall, Adam was bound not t6 defpair, nor 
flye,nor hide himfelf from God, from Whom itr 
was impofllble he could efcape. 

It cannot then be reafonably denied, but Matt 
by the Law of Nature* is bound to give credit 
to God when Hefpeaketh, and bound to truft 
in God when He ofTereth Himfelf as a Friend 
and a Father to him, arid when God bids him 
feek His Face, he isbound to obey Him, and 
feek His Face,and to follow after more and mote 
near communion with Him. 

It is true indeed, that Adam in his Intergrity, 
could not formally and actually believe in God 
as a Redeemer : partly, becaufe this Mi fiery was 
not yet revealed ; partly, becaufe he not having 
yet finned, had not need of a Redeemer, or of 
Remiffton of Sin ; but yet the Power and Abili^ 1 

h n if 



BOOK I. [164] CHAP. VI. 

ty of believing it>God, according as God flioulel 
let forth His Will,and the Power to adhere unto 
God, and reft on His Goodnefs and Good-Will, 
was given to Man in his Creation; For, this Per- 
fection was a part of the Image of God, where- 
in Man was created, even as the habit of fhew*- 
ing Mercy on theMiferable (though (uch an ob- 
ject was not to be found, while Man continued 
in the ftate of Innocency) was a part of that ori- 
ginal Holinefsin him: And if this Ground hold 
not, Sinners by their finning once, fhould make 
themfelves free to fin for ever after, and exempt 
themfelves from all the Duties of the Moral Law, 
upon this pretence, That they were unable to 
give obedience to it; which is moft unreafon- 
:able. And, 2. Becaufe the Hearers of the Go- 
fpel efteem themfelves able to perform the Con- 
dition of the Covenant of Grace offered, and to 
believe in Chrift, yea and to give credit, or not, 
to what is preached unto them, as they feerea- 
fon : Is it not equitable then to put all Men to 
it, who judge themfelves able to perform what 
is required ; to the end that after experience and 
trial taken of themfelves, they fhould either ac- 
knowledge their natural Inability to believe in 
Chrift, and fo go feek of God the Gift of Faith, 
or elfe be deftkute of all Excufe, if they fhall 
not do what they conceive and profels themfelves | 
able to do ? 

Thirdly \ It is equitable to crave Faith from 
them who are able to pron^ife morally the obe- 









BOOK [ 16s ] CHAP. VI. 

dience of Faith, and arc able to ufe the external 
Means leading unto true Faith : For the Lord 
Himfelf followed this way in His Covenanting 
with the Ifraelites, Exod. 19. where the Lord 
propounds the Condition of the Covenant, and 
promifeth to be their God, if they fhould hear- 
ken to His Voice, Ferf.$ y 6. the People did ac- 
cept the Condition, and undertook to perform it, 
FerJ. 7, 8. and upon thefe Terms the Covenant 
was made with them morally, in an external 
way, which did bind the Obligation fail upon 
them. 

Fourthly, By preaching of the Covenant of 
Grace, God doth ordinarly bellow Grace, and 
Grace for Grace, on the Redeemed in a time ac- 
ceptable; and in craving theCondition,the Lord 
giveth Grace to accept the Condition, and to per- 
form it: And this courfe is very (ii table to God's 
Soveraignty or Supremacy, futable to His Wif- 
dom and His Jullice, and futable to the Freedom 
of His Grace : For it becometh the abfolute Su- 
premacy of God, and the Liberty of His moft 
Holy Will, to fend the Gofpel only to whom He 
will; it becometh His Wifciom, where ever He' 
doth fend the Gofpel, to make offer of Grace in- 
differently to all the Hearers, whether E'ccl or 
Rcprobat, that all may be tried, whether they, 
plcafe to receive the Offeror not : It becometh 
His Juftice to with- hold Grace from fuch as re- 
fufc the Offer of it; and it becometh His Wjf 
dom, Mercy, Grace, Truth and Juftice, both to 

L 3 ex- 



BOOK I. [ 166 ] CHAP. VI. 

exa& from the Eled:, for whom Chrift did fatif- 
fy, the performance of the Condition of the Co- 
venant, and in the mean time, by the Offer of 
Grace, to make them favingly to believe, ufing 
the Cqmmand of Believing in Chrift for a fit Mean 
to beget Faith : Hence it is that faving Faith is 
given only to the Eled: ; which Faith therefore 
is called the Faith of the Eletl, Tit. 1.1 . Hence 
it is that the Eledt are called, Heirs of the Pro- 
mifes, Gal. 3. 29. and Children of the Promife, 
Heb.6. 17. partly, becaufe they are the Children 
promifed to be brought in to Chrift, If a. 53.10. 
partly, becaufe by the Promifes they are regene- 
rat to a new Life, and by believing in Chrift,they 
obtain Righteoufnefs and eternal Life : For 1 Pet. 
1.23. they are called, Begotten again, not of cor- 
ruptible Seed, hut of the incorruptible Seed of the 
ty^ord of God. 

Qsejl. If it be asked, Since Faith is Co necefla- 
ry, what is the Objed: of Faith ? 

Anf. We anfwer, The Truth of God revealed 
in Scripture, or God fpeaking in Scripture, and 
promifing eternal Life, upon Conditions holden 
forth in thefe Promifes : Among thefe Promifesi 
feme pertain to the Covenant of Works, fuch as, 
Gal. 1. 12. Do this and live, and Matth. 19. 17. 
If thou wilt : enter into Life, keep the Commandments. 
and fundry other particular Promifes of Bleflings 
both Spiritual and Temporal, annexed unto the 
Promulgation of the Law ; which Promifes do 
ferve to encourage them to make good their un- 
der- 



BOOK L [ 167 ] CHAP. VI. 

dcr taking,if tlicy be able,as they conceive they 
arc, and to humble them when they fliall find 
by experience, that neither Threatning nor Pro- 
mifes can make them to fulfil that Law. Befide 
the Promifes annexed to the Covenant of Works, 
there are other Promifes which pertain to the Co- 
venant of Reconciliation, and tend to the mak- 
ing Men embrace the Covenant of Grace,and to 
continue therein, fuch asthefc which are propoun- 
ded m the Gofpel, for giving unto the Believer 
all the fure Mercies of David, and the Benefits 
pnrchafcd by Chrift. And of this fort,fome are 
more general, feme more fpccial, feme of them 
belong to this Life, fome of them to the Life to 
come: For true Godlinefs, comprehending Faith 
and the Fruits of it, hath the Promifes both of 
this Life, and of the Life to come : Of all thefe 
Promifes, the Foundation and Fountain is the Co- 
venant of Redemption (whereof we have fpoken 
Chap, 4.) wherein Chrift promifeth to the Father 
to do His Will, and the Father promifeth to 
Chrift, as Mediator and Head of the Church, 
in favours of the Redeemed, that He fhall fee 
His Seed and be fatisfied, and the pleafure of the 
Lord fliall profper in His Hand • Upon this Co- 
venant of Redemption, all the Promifes made 
to the Church, do depend, whether they be ab- 
lolute Promifes, whether conditional Promiics, 
whether qualified Promifes, which are like unto 
conditional. Abfolute Promifes we call (for Ex- 
ample) fuch as do promifc abfoluteiy the taking 

L 4 a\va\ 



POOK I. C 168 ) CHAP. VI. 

away the Heart of Stone and the Converfion of 
the Eled, and their Perfeverance and Salvation, 
Jer. 3 1. 31, 31. &c. and i%. Verf. 40. Such are 
the Promifes of Gathering, Edifying, Propagat- 
ing and Perpetuating, of the Chriftian Church to 
the World's End, as Matth. 16. 18. Upon this 
Rock I mil build My Church, and the Gates of Hell 
jfha/J not prevail againjl it. Which fort of Promi- 
fes, do ferve to move Men to come and embrace 
Chrift; and after Men have fled to Chrift, in 
Whom all the Promifes are Yea and Amen, the 
Believer may make Application and comfortable 
Ufe, of all the precious Promifes of Righteouf- 
nefs and eternal Life, fet forth in the Gofpel. 
Conditional Promifes are fuch, as make offer of 
Chrift and Reconciliation to the Hearers of the 
Gofpel, upon this Condition, that in the fenfeof 
Sin and fear of Wrath, they fly to Chrift as the on- 
ly and fufficient Remedy of Sin and Mifory .Qua- 
lified Promifes like unto Conditional, are thefe 
that have in themfome qualification of the Per- 
fbn who is already a Believer, and do feem to 
make that qualification or defignation of the Be- 
liever, to be a condition of the Blefiing promis- 
ed therein : Which Promifes if they be well con- 
fidered, do pre-fuppone the qualified Perfon, to 
whom thePromifo is made, to be both a Believ- 
er, and alio to be. evidently endued with the 
named quality : As for Example, Matth. 5. Blef- 
fed aretheMerciful,the Peace-maker, the Meek, 
die Mourners^ the Poor, the Sufferer of Perfecu- 
1 %ion 



BOOK I. [169] CHAP.VI. 

tion for the Gpfpcl, or for Chrift, &c. which 
Vertues, if the Perfoii be not a Believer in Chrift 
do as yet fignify nothing in him, nor do not in- 
title the Man to this Golpel-bleflednefs ; and be- 
ing the defignations of Believers, they give, the 
Pcrfons endued therewith, encouragement to go 
on and encreafe in that Grace, and ail other 
Graces,that they may thereby more & more give 
evidence of their being real Believers: Such alfo 
are the Promifes which are made to the confident 
Waiters on God,Rcjoiccrs in God, Lpvers and 
Fearers of God, &c. In which promifes, Grace 
for Grace to be derived out of the Fulnefs of 
Chriftjis promifed to the Believer. Some Promiies 
defign fit Perfons to enter in Covenant, and do 
invite them to come to Chrift, fuch as are, Come 
unto Me all ye that are weary and heavy loader, 
Matth. u. 28. And Ho\ every one that thirjls, 
come to theje waters, &c. If a 55. 

And befides thefe Promifes which contain the 
Condition of the Covenant, made to them who 
embrace the Condition, and do already believe, 
fuch as is t They that believe in Me, jhall not perijh, 
hut fhall 'inherit eternal Life; there are alfo Pro- 
mifes Conditional ,ferving tp make Men who pro- 
feft Faith in Chrift to be real and ftedfaft in the 
Covenant, wherein they are at leafl: outwardly, 
and folemnly entered, fuch as, Joh. 15-. 7, to, 
If ye abide in Me, and My Words abide in you, ye 
fhall ask what ye will, and it Jhall be done unto you, 
and if ye [keep My Commands } ye Jhall abide in My 

Love 



BOOK!, [170] CHAP. Vi. 

Love, &c. And Job. iz z6. If any ManferveM e * 
him will My Father Honour ; and /r/\ 14. zi.He 
that loveth Me y Jkallbe loved of My Fatherland J 
will love him and manifefi My Self unto kirn. 

Ohj. Seing it is certain, that the Condition of 
the Covenant of Grace, is not the doing of one 
or moe Works,but Faith receiving Chrift offered, 
without refpedt to our Works, as any part of the 
Condition ; and feing the Condition of the Co- 
venant, is not the having, or exercifing of fuch 
and fuch Vermes, but the receiving of Chrift 
through Faith unto Righteoufnefs and eternal 
Life, by the Man who hath renounce i all confi- 
dence in his own Works ; how eemetb it to pafs, 
that fuch conditional Promifes are made to them 
that are endued with, and do exercife fuch Ver- 
mes ? 

AnfMhzit theEndeavour to work good Works 
or the exercife of fuch &!uch Vermes prelcnbed 
■ by Chrift cannot be the condition of theCovenant 
(for then noMan could clofeCovenant withChnft 
till firfthe fhall find thefe Vermes in himfelf.and 
have given proof of his conftant exercife there- 
of) yet fuch conditional Promifes are made ufe 
of after a Man hath clofed Covenant with 
Chrift by Faith, as Conditions required in a true 
Believer to evidence the Sincerity of his Faith. 
And that becaufe many make pretence of their 
Faith inChrift,and yet do turn the Grace of God 
juntoWantonnefs,ana do no ways fet themfelves 
to new Obedience unto God's Law, and are no 

ways 



OOK I. [ 171 ] CHAR. VI. 

ways careful to bring forth Fruits fuitablcto pro* 
fefled Repentance, but are Indulgent to their vi- 
tious and flefhly lufts,and in effed: do renounce 
all Endeavour to exercife good Works in Head 
of renouncing acarnal confidence in good Works.- 
Therefore God doth put the Endeavour to exer- 
cife Chriftan Vertues on all profeflcd Believers, 
as* a condition diftinguifhing a fincere Believer 
from an Hypocrite, left any Man fhould pleafe 
himfelf,becaufe he is externally in the Covenant 
pf Grace, while, it may be, as yet his Faith is 
but a dead Faith, net working by love: Againft 
which fort of pretended Believers James {Chap. 
2) difputcth. Such conditional Promifcs are di- 
rected toward them that are outwardly already 
in Covenant,and doferve for thefe feveral Ufes, 

Firft, That fuch as both pro feis Faith in Chrift, 
and are endeavouring the Duties required in fuch 
conditional Promiles, may acknowledge, that 
they have obtained of the Lord Grace for Grace, 
Grace to believe, and Grace to bring forth the 
Fruits of Faith. 

Secondly, That the honeft hearted may be en- 
couraged to fet up thefe Duties,and may hope to 
be furniftied for them, out of the rich Fountain 
of Quid's Grace, John 1. 16, 

Thirdly, They ferve to make fuch as believe 
in Chrift, when they , feel the In-lake of any 
fuch commanded Duty,or the bitter Root of any 
vice in themfelves, to humble themlelves.in the 
fenfe thereof,and to flye more earneftly to Chrift 

the 



BOOK I. [ 17% ] CHAP. VI. 

the Redeemer, that firft they may be covered 
with His Jlighteoufnefs, and then from Him re- 
ceive the power of the Holy Ghoft, to bring 
forth good Fruits, as He hath promifed, Job. 
15*. 5. If ye abide in Me, ye fhall bring forth much 
Fruit. 

Fourthly, They ferve to make Believers in 
in Chriftfubjed: themfelves to the order of the 
operation of the Holy Ghoft, Who giveth Grace 
for Grace, and worketh one Grace before another 
in his own order, as the forefaid Promifes do 
import. 

Fifthly, They ferve to ftir up Believers in 
Chrift,to the Love and Exercife of fuch and fuch 
Vertues,in the hope of the promifed Reward. 

Sixthly, They ferve to move Believers to join 
one Vertue to another,for certifying themfelves 
of their own Calling and Eledtion by their growth 
therein, 2 Pet. 1. 3, 4, 12. 

Lafl of all, They ferve to make thefe who are 
destitute and void of fuch Qualifications,and are 
carelefs to have them,manifeit to themfelves and 
Qthers, that they are blind, and cannot fee a far off: 
and that they have forgotten that they were in Eap^ 
tifm, ecclefiafikally purged from their old Sins, 
x Pet 1. 9. 

Obj. How can this Offer of Grace to all the 
Hearers of the Gofpel,and the folemn making of 
a Covenant with all that profefs they do accept 
of the Offer,(land with the Do&rineofEle&ion 
of fome^and Reprobation of others, or. with the 

Do- 



BOOK I. [ 173 ] CHAP. VI. 

Dodtine of Chrift's redeeming of the Eledt on- 
ly, and not of all and dvery Man ? 

Anf The Ele&ion of fome and Reprobation 
df others, was made clear of old by God's mak- 
ing offer of Grace unto, atid covenanting With^ 
©ne Nation only, and not with any other, Pfal. 
147.19, 20. He /hewed His Word unto Jacob, His 
Statutes and His Judgements unto lixael ; He hath 
not dealt fo with any Nation, and as for His Judge- 
ments they have not known them. 

z. And die 'Offer of Grace to all Hearers of 
die Gofpel, and covenanting with all that pro- 
fefs to accept the Offer, do corifift with the Ele-' 
dtion of fome only, as well now as of old, when 
God made a Covenant external and conditional 
with all Ifrael, of whom the great part Were not 
eledted to Life, and of whom it is faid, Albeit 
they were in number as the Sand of the Sea, yet a 
Remnant of them only were to be Saved, Ifa.10.22. 
For by this Courfe, God was not fruftrat of His 
Purpofe, and Fruit of His Covenanting with the 
mixed Multitude of Ifraelites; For the ElecS by 
Faith obtained Righteoufhefs and Life, but the 
reft were blinded, Rom. 1 1. 7 

4. This common Offer of Grace to all the 
Hearers of rije-Gofpel, and the making of a Mo- 
ral Covenant with all that do profefs that they 
accept the Offer, may ftand with the Do&rine of 
ChrilVs Redeeming the Eled only, no lefs now, 
than of old,whenChrift did make offer of Grace 
to them that were not His Sheep, Joh. 10. 26. and 

did 



BOOK I. [ i 74 ] CHAP. VI; 

We fay that it isfalfeand contrair unco Scripture^ 
how plaufible fo ever it (eem to proud Sinners ; 
yea it is a mocking of Chrift,and a hinderance 
of Men's Repentance and Converfion unto God. 

1. Their Do&rine is contrair to Scripture, be- 
caufe contrair to the Covenant of Redemption, 
wherein the Father and the Son Mediator, are a- 
gteed upon the Perfons to be Redeemed, to wit, 
the Eled: only, given unto the Son to be Redeem- 
ed ; and agreed upon the Price of their Redemp- 
tion, to wit, the Obedience of Ghtift,even to the . 
Death of the Crofs ; and agreed upon the Graces 
and Gifts to be given to the Eledt, to wit, all la- 
ving Graces, as Faith, Repentance, Perfeverarice, 
and whatfoever belongs to Righteoufnefs ande- 
ternal Life; and agreed upon the Means and Way 
of gathering in the Redeemed,out of all Tongues 
and Kindreds and Nations, prudently and prof 
peroufiy,as is proven from Scripture, Chap. 4. 
and ihall be more confirmed in the next follow- 
ing Chapter. 

2. Their Do&rine it mocketh Chriil,becaufe- 
it chargeth Chrift with Folly in His making Co- 
venant fo, as neither God's Juftice nor Man's 
common Wifdom,\vould allow, to lay down the 
Price of His Blood, and not before who ihould 
be favcd by His Blood,to pay as much for Judas 
as for Peter, to Redeem All and Every Man, and 
yet put the difpofingofthe Benefit of Redemp- 
tion, and Fruit of His Death out of His own 
Hand, into the Hand of Mens Free-will,to make. 

6? 



BOOK I. [ i75 ] CHAR VII. 

of it fomething or nothing as they pleafed;to buy a 
pofiibility umo Men to fave themfelyes actually, 
without the ipecial Grace of the Holy Ghoit, 
and to cut Himfelf off from hiding the Glory of 
the actual Converfion of Sinners, as far as He is 
from the blame of Mens remaining in Sin and In- 
fidelity: For they fay, He hath purchafed alike 

[>ower to all and every Man s Free-will, to br- 
ieve or remain in infidelity as they pleafe;ifthey 
ufe it ill, bear they the Blame;if they ufe it well 
they have the Praife. They make Him to lay 
down His Life for All and Every Man,and to pue- 
chafe unto All and Every One, Power to believe 
in Him,atKi yet never to purpofe to make offer of. 
the Golpel to the Thoufand part of Men. Thefe 
land many moe Blemifhes they caft by their Do- 
ctrine upon theWifilom and Power, and Grace 
of our Lordjefus, Who is infinitely Wife and 
Holy in all His Poings: 

.. 3. This Dodtrine is a great hinderance of 
Men's Repentance and Coriveriion unto God, 
and to the Exercife of all Holy Duties; for who- 
foevcr Believeth ih\$ their Do<ib*i:ie, he cannoc 
renounce nor deny his own Wit, Worth and A- 
bility, that he may come humbly unto Chrift and 
follow. Him, but he muft (tand to this concede 
of himfelf which this Doilrine teacheth him:, 
yea, fucha Man cannot fay to God, in humble 
and. hearty Prayer, Open mine eyes that I may be- 
hold the Wonders of Thy Law : and teach me Thy, Sta- 
tutes; he cannot in earned fay with David, in- 



BOOK I. [ 176 ] CHAP. VI. 

dine my Heart to Thy Teftimonie$ 9 and not unto 
Covet oufnefs: For, he hath ( in his conceit ) this 
Power of Free-will in himfelf,by common Gift to 
every Man, he cannot heartily thank God (if he 
feem to himfelf to do any Good) for giving him 
both to Will and to Do of His good pleafure ; 
for,this he hath in his own Hand, as this deceit- 
ful Doctrine perfwadeth him. 

Ohj. But fome there are who mantain the De- 
cree of Redemption, and Covenant between God 
and Chrift (which infubftance, is one with the 
Decree ) to be Abfolut@,concerning the powerful 
and invincible Converfion,Perfeverance and Sal- 
vation of the Elect ; but concerning the reft of 
the World,they tell us of a conditional Decree 
of Saving every one who flial] believe in Chrift 
Jefus, which doth make fome difference from what 
is faid before. 

Anf. There is indeed an Offer to be made to 
all the Hearers of the Gofpel, to whom God in 
His Providence doth fend His Meffengers, who 
are appointed to make offer of Peace and Recon- 
ciliation through Chrift,upon condition of hearty 
receiving it, even to fuch as the Lord knaweth 
will reject the Offer altogether ; againft whom, 
His fent Meffengers, are to lhake off the duft of 
their feet, forawitnefs againft them, Matth. 10. 
13, 14, 15. which accordingly was done by Paul 
and Barnabas, Acts 13.46. 51. and our Lord made 
offer of Himfelf to His covenanted People the 
Jews, who did not receive Him. Job. 1. n. 12,. 

and 



BOOK I. [ 177 ] CHAP. VI. 

and this is to be done according to one of the 
Articles of the Covenant of Redemption,concern- 
ing the prudent way and manner of Clirift's Ang- 
ling forth His own Eledt, from the reft 6f the 
World: But this doth no ways import or infer,ari 
iini verfal conditional Redemption,or any conditi- 
onal Decree of God.:Fo'r,there is a vaft difference 
between a conditionalDecree of God,& ^Decree for 
bringing aboutGodsPurpofe,by offerihgPeace un- 
to Men upon a Condition. A conditionalDecree pre- 
fuppofeth, that God is not refbl ved what to do a- 
bout chem,to whom Hefhallmake offer of Peace 
upon Condition,butthatHe doth fufpend the De* 
termination of His own Will, till the Offer be 
made,and the Man hath fefufed or aiccepted of 
the Condition propounded unto him; which fort 
of Decree cannot be in God,to \yhom are known 
all His own Works, and all Mens Works front 
the Beginning, Ads 15-. 18. And Who doth all 
things according to the deter minai counfel of His own 
Will,Ephef.i.i 1. But a Decree to offer Peace,upon 
Condition of Believing in Chrift,is a wife mean 
both of hiding and executing His own fecret De- 
cree, and putiitg the Perfons to whom He makes 
the Offer unto.Trial;that after the drawing forth 
of die natural Enimity & Back-wardnefs,which is 
in all Men to come unto Chrift,till they be drawn 
by God,He may have Mercy on whom He will, 
and take the Refufe at the Hands of Others 
for the Glory of His Juftice and Grace, accord- 
ing a£ Me hath determined in Himfeif. The one 

M % way 



BOOK I. [178] CHAP. VI. 

way determined! Man, as God willeth • the o- 
ther way determineth God,as Mm wi rl :ch. M Dre- 
overfuch a conditional Decree concerning all tfire 
reft of Mankind, befide the Eleil, is inconfiitent 
with the Scriptute,and the way of God's Difpen- 
fation toward the moft part of Mankind: For, it 
was not God's purpofe to make the Offer of Grace. 
upon condition of Believing in Chrift, to All ana 
Every Man, Pfal. 147. 19. 20. He fheweth His 
Word 'mto Jacob, His Statutes and His Judgements 
unto Ifrael, He hath not done fo with any Nation. 
And as for His Judgements they have not known them. 
This fame doth Mofes infinuat Deut. 4. 7,8. And 
for His Difpenfation, Experience in all Ages 
flievveth,that the Grace of the Go(pel,is not offer- 
ed to All and Every One, and fo they cannot be 
faid to Refufe the Condition, who never have 
the Offer of Grace upon Condition : For, our 
Lord givethus ground fo to reafon, fpeaking 
of them who fhould Refufe the Offer of the Got 
pel, J oh. 1 j. 22. If I had not come &Jpoken unto them, 
they had not had Sin, (to wit, the guiltinefs of re- 
jecting the Offer made in the Gofyd) i>ut now they 
have no cloak for their Sin. wherein alfo He giv- 
eth a Reafon wherefore the Offer is made to them, 
whom He knew would Refute the03er,td wit, 
that they may be rendered inexcufable,& be with- 
out Cloak or Precence of this Allcdgence, that if 
they had gotten theOffer, then would they have 
believed & repented:For.this is the Pride of Adams 
Poiterity .they conceive they can Believe and O- 

bey 



BOOKI. [ 179 ] CHAR VI. 

bey God,if He fhall be pleafed to reveal His will 
to them. And this is futable to the Covenant of 
Redemption ;which, becaufe it was not made for 
the faving of All and Every Man therefore it was 
nptGod's purpofe to reveal His Gofpel & make of- 
fer of His Grace to All and Every One,but out of 
all forts of Men to call effe&ually the Eledt, 
fending the G )fpel where they live, or bringing 
them to the Place where the Gofpel is preached,, 
that the Predeftinat might be of purpofe. effec- 
tually Called and Ju (lifted aud Sanftified and Sav- 
ed, Rom. 8. x8. 30. and becaufe the Eledt and 
Predeftinat were to live in the Civil Society of 
the reft of the World, it was agreed and decre- 
ed, that the Offer of the Gofpel fhould be made 
to all indifferently where God fhould fend His 
Mefiengers, becaufe God had determined to bring 
about the Salvation of the Eled;,fo wifely & ho- 
lily,as none of the Hearers of the Gofpel fhould 
be (tumbled, or hindered from embracing theOffer 
made to all the Hearers indifferently, without let- 
ting any Man know of his Eled;ion,tiil he had re- 
ceived Chrift offered to him, & other felf-condem- 
ned Sinners, or declaring a'iy Man Reprobat in 
particular, to whom He maketh Offer of Grace, 
Ohj. But except we grant an univerfal Redemp- 
tion and the Univerfal Grace (as they call it) of 
the Power of Free-will to All and Every Man, 
how fhall we fatisfte our {elves about God's Dif- 
penfation toward them, who iivc without the 
Church, Strangers and Aliens from the Com- 
mon-wealth of Ijrael Anf. 



BOOK I. [ 180 ] CHAR yi. 

Anf As for theEledt among therji, either they 
{hall be brought to the Hearing of the Gofpel 
where it is preached, ot the Gofpel fhall be fent 
unto them where they do live; and for the reft 
the Lojrd dealeth with them on the Terms of 
the Covenant of Works, the power of keeping 
whereqf^lbeit they have loft in Adam, yet they 
&re not loofed from the Obligatiqn and Penalty 
of violating thereof,and even they have not laid 
afide the proud Opinion of their Ability to fol- 
low Vertue and efhew Vice as they pleafe. And 
the Courfe which God folio weth concerning them 
the Apoftle fheweth us, Rom. z. 12, 13, 14, 15. 
As many as have finned without the written Law 
(faith he) fhall perifh without the Law, &c. for, 
when the Gentiles which have not the Law (to wit, 
the written Law given to the Church) do by Na- 
ture the Things of the Law ; thefe having not the 
Law, are a Law to themj elves. 

Obj. But if the Do&rine of Redemption of 
the Eledt only unto Life, be mantained, and 
power of Free-will to believe and obey the Got 
pel, be npt given to every Man,fpecially of thefe 
that have the Offer of the Gofpel,andthat with- 
out any fpecial Operation of the Holy Ghoft, 
how can it be faid, that God dealeth juftly in 
earned and fairly, with miferable Sinners, when 
He Exhorts, Requeftsand Obtefts all that hear 
the Gofpel to come to Chrift,and perfevere in o- 
feedience of the Faith, vyhen He knoweth that 

none 



BOOK I. [ 181 ] CHAP. V[. 

none of them have power to Believe or Obey, 
and that to many of them He hath no purpofe 
ever to give Grace to Repent and Believe, that 
they may be faved ? 

Anf. Fir ft, what can the Patrons of the Power 
ofMen's Free-will, fpeak againft thejuftice and 
Goodnefsof God, when they hear His Complaint 
againft Ifrael, Pfal. 81. 8, 9, 10. &c. Hear 
My People \and I will teflife urtto thee Ifrael, if 
thou wilt hearken unto Me, there /hall he no jlrange 
god in thee, neither (halt thou worfbip tny ft range 
go J; I am the Lord thy God, which broufht thee out 
cf the Land of Egypt; open thy Mouth wide, and I 
will Jill it; but My People would not hearken to My 
Voice, and Ifrael would none of Me: So I gave them 
up to their own Hearts luft,and they walked in their 
own Counfels. What can they fay againft God's 
Juftice and fair dealing,when He, having drawn 
forth to light, by His long continued Preaching 
of His Word, the obftinat Enimity of the Repro- 
bat Multitude againft Him, opened up His De- 
cree againft all that fort in the fad MeiTage com- 
mitted to Ifaiah, Chap. 6. 9, 10. Go and tell this 
People, hear ye indeed, and underfland not; Jeeye in- 
deed, but perceive not : make the Heart of this 
People fat, and make their Ears heavy, and/hut their 
Eyes, lell they fee with their Eyes, and hear with 
l heir Ears, and underfland with their Heart, and 
convert and be healed, Verf. 1 3. yet there jhall be a 
tenth part, the Holy Seed, (to wit, the Eled) (hall 
be the fubflance thereof And of this Prophefy 

M 4 ule 



jSOOK I. [ i8* ] CHAP. VI. 

ufe is made, when the Multitude of Misbelie- 
vers was like to obfcure the Glory of Chrilt, Job. 
ix. 37, 38. to 42,. they heard the Offer of Grace 
preached by Chrift Himfelf, and faw His mani- 
fold Wonders,yet they believed not,neither could 
they belie ve,becaufe God had rejected fhem, as 
John doth prove from the Prophefy of Ifaiah. 

Secondly, Is it not fair Dealing,when the Lord 
profeffeth, that His Word fliall be p:eached,and 
His Wonders manifefted (for the Elects caufe, 
albeit they were but asaTenthparO to a Curfed 
and Reprobat Multitude, who ihould hear and 
fee without His Bleiiing, and in His difpenfation 
doth in effect as He hath profefled ? As it is a 
reafonable Anfwer of a Husband-man and Gar- 
dener to his Child, asking him, Why he beats 
the whole Sheaf, and watereth all the Garden, 
feing the Sheaf is moft part Straw and ChafF,and 
the Garden full of Weeds, to fay to his Child, 
that he beats the Sheaf, that he may fever the 
Corn from the Straw and Chaff,and that he wa- 
tereth the Ground, where Herbs and Weeds do 
grow together, that he may make both to come 
up above Ground, and after that, may pull out 
the Weeds, and fofler the Herbs for the Mailer's 
ufe? So is it a reafonable Anfwer to fuch as cavil 
againft the preaching of the Gofpel, to a mixed 
Multitude of Eled: and Reprobat,to fay that the 
Gofpel is preached to both, for the Converfion 
of the Eleft, and bringing to light the Hatred 
of the Reprobat againft God,and the Offer of His 
Grace, •' < ' " Third- 



BOOK I. [ 183 3 CHAP. VI 

Thirdly, We grant the Lord knoweth Mens 
Wickednels and Inability to obey His Commands, 
and their Natural Enimity againft Him; but He 
knoweth alfo, that all Men by Nature are proud 
and puffed up with the conceit of their own Wif- 
dom and Rigbteoufnefs, and Ability, fa as they 
will not acknowledge their Sinfullieis, nor be (en- 
■fibie of their Mifery and danger of Perdition, 
but do entertain a high Eftecm and Opinion of 
themfel ves, and in (pedal this, That they love 
God above all Things, and that they can do 
any thing commanded, at leaft in (uch a meafure 
as may reafonabiy {atis<kGod,as it is to befeen in 
the Example of the Israelites undertaking, Exod. 
19. therefore, God in His. Wii^oro before He 
convert any Man,dcth pull down this falfe Con- 
ceit, by putting his Ability to Proof by the 
Preaching of the Law, to the intent, that as the 
Lord knoweth what is m Man,fo Man may know 
it alfo both in his own and other Mens experi- 
ence: and this is brought to light yet more clear- 
ly by the Preaching of the Qofpel : wherein al- 
.beit God make the precious Offer of Life & Sal- 
vation to every Hearer of the Gofpel, if he will 
acknowledge his Sin, and betake himfejf to 
Chrift; yet no Manofhimfelf will either believe 
or receive the Offer, but will go on in his own 
counfel and w T ays, till God by His Grace 
convert him. This Sicknefs is common both to 
the Eledt and Reprobat, but when the natural 

Per- 



BOOK I. [ 184 ] CHAP. VI. 

Perverfnefs of both is manifefted, God cometh 
and maketh the difference of the one from the 
other out of His meer Grace,by drawing the fi- 
led: powerfully to Chrift, and letting the reft go 
on to their own Perdition in His Righteous 
Judgment. And our Lord doth fo expound the 
matter, Job. 8. 47. He .that is of God, heareth 
God's Words; ye therefore hear them not, becaufe ye 
qrenot of God. 

Fourthly, The Lord profefieth plainly, that in 
the Difpenfation of His Word and Works of Pro- 
vidence,^ intendeth the trial of Men, and the 
difcovery of their hearts to themfelves and to o- 
thersjand what fairer dealing can there be than 
this > for Exod. 16. 4. He tells them that He 
will rain down Mama upon them,to prove them, 
whether they will walk in His Law or nor: and, 
Exod. xo. zo. He tells them, He will give tnem 
His Law and Preaching of His Word to prove 
them,that His fear might be before them : and, 
Deut. 8. z. that the Difpenfation of His Provi- 
dence toward them, all the Fourty Years in the 
Wildernefs,was to humble them,& to prove them, 
to. know what was in their Heart, whether they 
would keep His Commands or not : and, Deut. 
13. 1, 2, 3. that He would fuffer falfe Prophets 
to arife among them,to prove them, and to try 
whether they would love the Lord their God 
with all their Heart. And to this fame intent, 
we are advertifed,that Chrift fiiouldbe not only 
a tried Scone, but alfo a Stone for trial, fet for 

the 



BOOK I. ( i8y ) CHAP. VI. 

the ruine of fome, and raiftngup of other fome, 
Ifa. x8. 16, 17. and, 8. 14. compared wich Luke 
x. 34, 35-. for, by this manner of Difpenfation, 
the Lord maketh manifeft, that both the Eledt 
and Reprobat are concluded under Sin and Un- 
belief of thcmfclves, and that no Man can 
come to Chrill, except the Father draw him, 
that He may have Mercy on whom He will 
have Mercy. And this manner of probation of 
Men by a common Offer of Grace unto all, is 
a part of that Prudence, whereby Chrift, by 
His conditional Promifes and Exhortations, and 
the Preaching of the Gofpel to all Hearers, mak- 
eth all thefe that are outwardly called to be with- 
out Excufe,and fiftieth forth the Ele<ft out of the 
Sea of Sin and Mifery, and out of the Society 
ofthofe that perifh : of which Prudence Ifaiah 
fpeaketh, Chap. $z. 13. Behold, My Servant Jball 
deal prudently and profper, and he extolled, and 
be very high. 

Wherefore this Wifdom of God in Converting 
the Eled, without giving caufe of Stumbling un- 
to any of the reft, is rather to be Admired and 
Praifed, than to be Difputed againft, as we are 
taught, Rom. 11. 33,34, 3 5, 36. the depth of 
the Riches, both of the Wifdom and Knowledge of 
God, how unfearchable are Hts Jitdgefyents , and His 
Ways p aft finding out> 

Obf But for all this, the carnal Wifdom of 
proud Men is fuch, as neither is it iubjed to God, 
$cx indeed can be, but ftajyleth in hoftilc £*■ 



BOOK I. [ 186 ] CHAP. VI. 

mity againft Him, and will not be quiet, but 
when it heareth what is faid. Rom. 9. 18. that 
God will have Mercy on whom He will have Mercy, 
and whom He will He Hardeneth, will fay, as it 
is, Verf. 19. Why doth Godyet find fault t for who 
hath refifted His Will? this Do&rine, fay they, 
doth hinder Mens Repentance altogther. 

Anf We Anfwer with the Apoftle, Verf. 20. 
Nay, but Man, who art theu that replieth againji 
God > whether do<l thou compear Procurator for 
the Reprobat and for Satan the Enemy of God, 
to quarrel and difpute with God anent His righ- 
teous Decrees ? If thou wilt avow this, we leave 
thee and all fuch proud and prefumptuous Mis- 
believers of plain Do&rine, to reckon with your 
Judge. But if thou fpeak only for they felf, we 
fhall let thee fee, that this Dodrine lhall not 
hinder thee from Repentance. If then thoufhalt 
fay, I will not difpute againft Qod, but do defire 
earneftly to be fatisfied about my felf; for I be- 
lieve, that many are Reprobat and few are Cho- 
fen : and my fear is, that I be found of the worft 
fort, and do not know how to rid my felf of 
my Doubts and Fears. For, Anfwer we lhall deal 
with thee in a Friendly manner; and Firft,we put 
thee in Remembrance, that God hath ferved an 
Inhibition on all Men, not to medle with the 
fecret Counfel of God, Deut. 29. 29. Thefecret 
Things belong to the Lord our God, but thefe Tbings 
that are revealed belong unto lis and our Children 
for ever. Therefore do not hearken to this Sug- 



BOOK I. [ 187 ] CHAP. VI. 

geftion, but go about thy Duty. We ask 
then, Firft, art thou convinced of thy Sin and ill 
Deferring ? If thou fay, J am a Sinner, and can- 
not aniwer for one of a thoufand of my bygone 
Sins, for which God mayjuftly, and I fear He 
fhall in effed: reject me. We anfwer unto thee, 
it is to good purpofe that thou art fo far convin- 
ced of Sin,as to judge thy felf worthy of Death, 
and utter Exterminion from His Mercy: Mean 
time be comforted thus far, that thou art not of 
the number of thofe who confide in their own 
Righteoufnefs, nor of the number of them who 
truft in their own Strength, or power of their; 
Free-will. 

We ask again, doth thy bygone Life difpleafe 
thee? and wouldft thou have thy Sins forgiven, 
and thy felf reconciled with God > doth Cnrift, 
offering Himlelf in the Gofpel, pleafe thy Soul, 
when thou heareft from His Word, thatHecrav- 
eth nothing of thee, fave that thou welcome His 
Offer, and Confecrat thy felf to Him, that fo 
in Him thou mayeft have Righteoufnefs and 
Sanclification and Salvation ? If thou ani\ver,that 
the Searcher of Hearts knoweth thy defire to be 
Reconciled to God in Chrift, to live before Him 
hereafter as a reconciled Child, there is good 
hope of Salvation for fueh a one as thou art. 

Thirdly, We lay, feing thou haft heard the 
Law convincing thee of Sin, and haft believed 
God's Word fo far, why doft thou not believe 
Him aifo, when in the Gofpel thou heareft His 

Offer 



BOOK I. [ 188 ] CHAP. VI. 

Offer and Call unto all felf-condemned Sinners, 
to come unto Chrifl, and reft their weary Souls 
iipoh Him ? who hath excepted thee from the 
embracing of Mercy offered in Jefus Chrift? look 
therefore tvhat His Word faith to all Sinners fly- 
ing for Refuge unto Chrift, Who is the Hope 
fet before Sinners, and leave Him not, whatfoe- 
ver be thy Fears : For He that hungreth and thir- 
fteth for Righteoufhels through Chrift, fliall be 
fatisfied. 

CHAR VII. 

For a further Clearing and Confirmation of the ho- 
Brine alout the Three Covenants, from Jer. 31. 
and Heb. 8. 

THe Prophet Jeremiah giveth us a fliort 
Compend of the former Do&rine anent 
thefe Three Covenants, Chap. 3 i . VerJ. 
3 1. &c. whereof the Apoftle giveth a cleat Com-* 
mentary, Heb. 8. Verf. 6. 7. &c. 

As to the Covenant of Redemption,it is here 
prefupponed to be paft,as the Apoftle,expounding 
this place of Jeremiah, giveth us to underftand, 
while he flieweth us,that the Covenant of Grace 
was no other ways purchafed than by the Media- 
tion of our Lord Jefus, trarifa&ing about the 
Covenant of Redemption with the Father. And 
that he may give us to underftand this; 

1 . Chrift is called the Mediator of a better Co- 
venant ; Heb, 8.to wit, of the Covenant of Grace. 



BOOK I. [ 189 ] CHAP. VII. 

z The Covenant of Grace is dcfigned by the 
Name of a Teftament, which giveth us to under- 
ftand that Chrift the Mediator,did not obtain the 
making of this Covenant on a le(s Price than the 
laying down of His Life, that all the Benefits 
contained inthefe better Promifes, might firft be 
His Goods to difpone upon,asHe pleafed;and that 
He being refolved to die,did make His Teftament f 
and leave them all in Legacy to the Redeemed, 
His Heirs and Affigneys,defigned from Eternity. 

3. The Mediator making His Teftament, is 
called Jehovah y not a meer Man,butGod to be in- 
carnat, making an unchangabie Latter-will or 
Teftament, whfch of neceflity required the Death 
of the Teltator, that it might be ratified, Heb. 
9. 1 £, 16. and the Death of a Teftator not a meer 
Man, but the Son of God to be Incarnat and to 
Die, W ho had Life in Himfelf, that He might 
lay down His Life, and take it up again. 

4. The Goods which He purchafed accord- 
ing the Covenant of Redemption,and left in Le- 
gacy to His Heirs, are all and every Bleffing 
which do belong to Godlinefe and Life eternal, 
i&Remiffion of Sin, and writting of the Law in 
their Hearts, &c. 

5. The Redeemed, and defigned Heirs,arenot 
all and every Man,bur the Eledonly, thefethat 
were to be faved only , and who were to be effectu- 
ally Called, and endued with the Saving Know- 
ledge of God,who from the leaft to the greateft, 
were all of them to know the\L»rdi not (uch as were 

the 



BOOK I. [ 190 ] CHAP. VII: 

the Reprobat Fathers, nor their unbelieving 
Children, but the chofen Society of the Ijrael 
of God, and of Chrifts Family, the Houfe of Ju- 
dahy which is the Tribe of Chrift: For, the Apo- 
ftle doth extend thefe Promifes unto the Cove- 
nant between God and the Elecl:, to be gathered 
under the Evangel unto Chrift, out of Jews and 
Gentiles, 

As to the Covenant of Worksat is certain,Firft, 
That God made a Covenant of Grace in fubftance; 
and upon the Matter with the Fathers, that were 
brought out of £gy/tf,aswemay gather from the 
consideration af the Parties and Articles of that 
Covenant: For, albeit Gcd 'repeated the' 
Covenant of Works, and declared the force 
of the Law,for binding the Curfeupon all Tranf- 
greflbrs thereof; yet He did prefs the Law on 
them in order unto their Reconciliation, by the 
Sacrifice of the Lamb of God, to be in due 
time offered up,and did teach them,, that Chrift 
was the End of the Law, for Righteoufnefs to 
every one that believed. 

2. It is certain, that in the framing of this 
Covenant of Grace, between God and the vifi- 
ble Church of the Fathers, God did make the 
Promifes of Righteouliiefs and eternal Life and 
fpiritual Bleflmgs, under the vaii of temporal: 
Types, upon Conditions more hard and difficile 
ill appearance, than the newCovenant doth re- 
quire : For, this the Apoftle iheweth to us plain- 
ly, Heb. 8, 6. 

i it 



BOOK I. [ 191 ] CHAR VII. 

3, It is certain, that the un-belicving Fathers 
did not take up,nor underftand the Covenant 6f 
Grace, but turned it over in a Covenant of Works, 
which is manifeft by comparing the Words of 
Jeremiah, and the Commentary thereupon by the 
by the Apoftle: For, Jeremiah faith, that they 
did tranfgrefs the Covenant, albeit God did Ihew 
Himfelf a Husband unto thefe un-believing Fa- 
thersjthat is,they changed the Covenant of Grade 
in a Covenant of Works of their own framing, 
and tranfgrefled that Covenant alfo. And the 
Apoftle faith, they did not continue in that Cove- 
nant, becaufe they changed it to themfelves in 
a Covenant of Wcrks,according to which Cove- 
nant God did deal with them : For, in ftead of 
being a Husband to them, He exa&ed of them 
the Penalty of the broken Covenant of Works, 
and Lorded it over them,and did not regard them 9 
Heb. 8. 6. For, they fought after the Righteout 
nefs of Works, and not to have Righteoufnefs by 
Faith ;and therefore did Hedifpife them,and dealt 
with them after the Tenor of the Covenant of 
Works. And it is obfer vable, that the Words of 
Jeremiah do comprehend the Apoftie's meaning 3 
For, the Words may bear both ,that God was a 
Husband unto them, to wit, in making a Cove- 
nant of Grace with them; and that He dealt with 
them as a Lord over them, by exacting of them 
the*penaltyof the broken Covenant of Works, 
and ^of the rejected Covenant of Grace, 



BOOK I. [ i 9 z ] CHAP VII. 

As to the Covenant of Grace, the Apoftle 
fpeaketh of it in exprefs Terms, Fir ft, By God's 
■Pr-omifing that He would make a new Covenant 
with the Houfe of Ifrael and Judah. 

Secondly, By His letting better Promifes before 
them, than thefe were which were made to the 
Fathers in the Wildernefs. 

Thirdly, By His giving no other Caufe of be- 
flowing fo great Bleffings on them, but His own 
Good-will and Pleafure. 

Fourthly, By His requiring no other Condition 
of them but Faith, that they who feel in them- 
felves, the want and need of the promifed Blef- 
fings, and are convinced of their own Unworthi- 
nels, might give credit uiito God that maketh 
the Promife,and fo embrace the Promifes, and 
apply them to their own u(e. 

As to the external Difpenfation of the Cove- 
nant, it is certain,Fir(t, that it was common to 
all that were externally Called, to all the Mem- 
bers of the vifible Church ; for, the Covenant 
made in theWildernefs with the Eledt Fathers & 
Reprobat,\vith the Believers & Unbelievers,with 
thofe that rejed:ed the Covenant of Grace and 
the Offer of Righteoufnefs by Faith, and with 
thofe who looked through the vail a far off to. 
Chrifl: coming, and were Saved, was one and 
the fame. 

z. Jt is certain, that the external Form of the 
Covenant: of Grace, was more obfcure and vailed 
over, bv the Types and Figures of the Leviticai 

Cc- 



BO OKI. [ 193 ] C HAP. VII. 

Ceremonies before Chritt came;but after His com- 
ing, it was propounded in clearer and better 
Promfes. 

3. A day is fet, to wit, the fulnefs of time, 
whenthefe Shadows and typical Figures fhould be 
aboli{hed,atld the Grace of God fliould be fet be- 
fore HisPeople,to be looked upon with open Face. 

4. And yet, the Grace of God was not fo hid 
and obfturely propounded to the Church before 
Chrift's coming, as it could not be tak#nup by 
the Children of God : For in the midlt of the 
Shadows and dark Typs, the Star light of gra- 
cious Promifes did ihine, and the Dodtrine of 
the New Covenant, was in fubftanceholden forth 
by the Prophets ; and one inftance thereof doth 
appear in this place of Jeremiah. 

As to the internal Covenant of Grace, Firftj 
tliefe Things which are promifed in that Cove- 
nant^ declare in what (tare God doth find Men, 
whom He doth convert and draw into Covenant* 
with HimfelfrFor, when theLordtakerhin Hand, 
that He will write His Law in their Heart, that 
He will teach them HimfelftoKnow Him,by the 
teaching of His Word and Spirited that He will 
forgive their Sins,He pre-fuppofeth, that lawleis 
Rebellion did reign in them, with Biindnefs of 
Mind and Hardnefs of Heart;and that the Eledt, 
by Nature are without Law, without God, with- 
out Faith, before He reform them, according 
to the Articles, or Tenor of the Covenant of 
Redemption. 



BOOK I. t 194 1 CHAP. VII. 

2. Albeit by Nature, the Law be written In 
Mens Hearts, as to the knowledge of fundry 
Moral Duties, and fo far as is fufficient to make 
them inexcufable, for their contraveening chefe 
Sparks of Light, Row, 1. 20. and 2. 14,15'. Yet 
the writting of the Law, here promifed is Spiri- 
tual and Super-natural, enlightning their Minds 
by the Light of God's Spirit, and renewing their 
Heart ; and, in effect, the thing promifed is ac- 
tual Converfion of them. 

3. And feing Converfion is here promifed by 
Chrift the Teftator abfolutely, He hath taken 
in Hand abfolutely to effe&uat it: For, it is not 
faid, /will put My Law in their Heart // they 
pleafe to fnffer Me, but determinatly, / will put 
My Law, I will write My Law in their Heart and 
inward Tarts, that is, I will make them willing 
who were averfe, and obedient to My Law who 
were rebellious. 

4. Chrift, the Teftator, doth in all this, 
not fatisfie Himfclf by promifing the Illu- 
mination of the Mind and the enclining of 
the Heart, for a time ; but promifeth, alfo 
to make a folid and permanent work of it, by 
making them perfevere, which is imported in 
the Words / will put, and / will write it; for, 
to write it, is as much as to fix and engrave it, 
that it may remain. 

5. The chief Head of the Covenant, and 
which in fubftance doth contain all I31eftings, 
is fet down in thefe words, / will be their God, 



BOOK I. [ 195 ] CHAP. VII. 

and they [ball be My people : For, by this Promife 
Right is granted unto the true Heart-convert and 
Confederat, firft, unto God Himfelf, then unto 
all His Benefits, whereof he hath need, in 
order to Righteoufnefs and eternal Life : 
For, they whofe God the Lord is, they do 
live, and fiiall live for ever, as Chrift faith, 
God is not the God of the Dead, but of the Liv- 
ing, Matth. 22. 32. And all particular promi- 
fes, what are they elfe but Explications of 
this great and firft Promife, and Applications 
thereof to His Childrens Cafes in particular ? 

Gifts of the Spirit are promiled here, and En- 
duements whereof Difciples have need, whereof 
Pilgrims going Home to that Heavenly City 
have need: yea,the Spirit Himfelfis promifed to 
them, who is to remain with them to the end of 
their Life, as a Dire&er and Leader, They fha/l 
all know Me, faith the jDW,that is, as Chrift doth 
interpret it, They fhall be all taught of God, 
J oh. 6.45. 

7. The Lord flieweth here, that He will deal 
with Men, in their Regeneration and Reconcilia- 
tion^ with reafonable Creatures, by preferving 
and not deilroyingthetn in their fimpie Naturals, 
by maintaining and not over-turning the 
Liberty of their Free-will ; 1 will make a Orce- 
nant,{aitaHc,with the Houfe of Judah. Now a 
Covenant is a free and voluntar Contrach 

8. He flic weth, that He is Lord and Over* 
ruler of Mans WUl,Who can turn it about as He 

pleafi 



POOKL [ i 9 6 ] CHAP. VII. 

pleafeth, and that He is not hindered nor imped- 
ed to execute and bring to pafs, whatsoever He 
hath purpofed to do,by the variable contingen- 
cy or differency of Mans Will,but can work upon 
the Will of Man, and by the Will of Man, what 
pleafeth Him ; and by fecond caufes, whether 
working freely and contingently, or by a Natural 
Neceflity,can wifely ,holily and powerfully bring 
about His own purpofe,in Hisfet time;The days 
come, faith }Ht,whereinIwill make a Covenant with 
the Houfe of Ifrael. Wherein He taketh upon 
Him the effectual Work of Covenanting,promi- 
fing not only for His own part, but alfo for the 
Elect of Ifrael and Judatis part: For,His promife 
is, that it ilia.ll come to pafs, that by enclining 
their Will unto Reconciliation, they fhall wil- 
lingly confent unto a Covenanting with God : 
For,He faith, I will make a Covenant with them ; 
He faith not, if they will, but absolutely, I will 
make them clofe a Covenant with Me heartily. 

9. The party to be Converted and to enter 
in Covenants not all Men, nor every Society 
but the Church-, God's own Family ; not every 
Nation, but God's People, chofen out of all 
Nations on the whole Earth, I will make a Cove- 
nant with the Houfe ej Ifrael ; as it is alfo cleared, 
Deut. 7. 6, 7, 8. 

10. The Church of Chrifl under the Gofpel, 
as the Apoflle looketh on this place, is compre- 
hended under the Name of Ifrael and Judah; 
partly, becaufe Ifraelhzth the priority of all o- 

ther 



BOOK I. [ 197 ] CHAP. VII. 

thcr People in God's Covenant 3 and partly, be- 
caufe all the Chritlian Church of the Jews and 
Gentiles is comprehended under the Name of the 
Houfe of Judab,\vh\ch is Chrift's Tribe,whereof 
He came, Who is the Prince and Head of all 
Believers and confedem Perfons, reconciled to 
God ; and partly, becaufe the Ijraelites or Jews, 
have tins Prerogative above all other People and 
Nations on the Earth, that of that Race of 
People, the pollcrity of Abraham, Ifaac and Ja- 
cob, there fhall be in all Ages ibnie elected per- 
fons; til! the great bulk of the now fcattered 
People turn Chriftians, and till the End of the 
World/ Rom. 11. 5. 

11. No Age, old nor young, no Sex, Man nor 
Woman, nor any external difference of Men that 
can be put between one and another in this Life, 
doth exclude any Mali from the Benefit of this 
Covenant, or commend a Man to God that his 
Perfbn mould be refpecledof God,but all & every 
one whom God ihall externally Call, may fafe- 
ly accept the Offer of Grace, and join themfelvcs 
tojeius Ghrifb For, the Grace of God here, is 
extended unto ail degrees and forts of Men, 
from the lea (I to the greatefl. 

12. In the mean time God knowcth His own, 
Man.be Man,bodv great and fmail,and with the 
fame Love,doth embrace them all: For,the Pro- 
mife is, that all thofe Elecl:who are known to 
God, ill a 1 1 know Him, from the greatefl even to 
the leaJL 

13 The 



BOOK I. [ 198 ] CHAP. VII. 

13. The great Obftacle which may be fuppo- 
fed to exclude any from coming in to God 
through Chrift, is here removed; to wit, the 
greatnefs and multitude of by-gone Sins, call up 
againft the incoming of fome when they are Cal- 
led: The Mercy and Grace of Chrift,; the Te- 
ftator,taketh this Doubt out of the way, faying, 
I will forgive their iniquity, and their Sins I mil 
no more rememler, Jer. 31. 34. 

14. Thispromifed Remiflion, the Lord will 
not have limited nor abridged, neither by the 
number of Sins, nor grievoufnefs thereof, nor 
kinds of Sins, but He purpofeth and promifeth 
to toke away all Iniquity by Forgivenefs, and 
to forger their by- gone Sins, Verf 34. And con- 
firmeth-thisby repeating the Promifeof not call- 
ing: them ofT who fhaii acknowledge Him, 
Verf 37. 

1 y . rrom this Promife the Apoftle (Heh. 10.) 
draweth this Confequence,That under the Go£ 
pel, cr new Covenant, there is but one Offering 
fpr Sin ; \\ hich Offering cannot be repeated, in 
regard that full Remiflion thereby is purchafed : 
For. ( Verf 14. ) he faith, By one Offering He 
hath perfected for ever them that are Santtified-, 
and this he proveth from the Words of the Co- 
venant, Verf 15. 16, 17. whence he concludes, 
Verf. 18. Now, where Remiffion ofthofe are, there 
re Ojferinjfor Sin. 
1 6 If any ihall ask for the Caufe of fb 
Mercy and Grace Covenanted, he iliall find 

none 



BOOK I. [ 199 1 CHAP. vn. 

none in Man at all. The only Caufe is fet 
down here,to wit, the Will and good Plcafure of 
God, I will forgive their Iniquity, faith the Lord, 
and their Sins will I remember no more, that is, I 
vvill have Mercy on whom I will have Mercy. 
17. Becaufe the Lord our God and Mediator, 
is here making His Teftament, wherein alfo He 
taketh upon Him to be Executor of His own 
Latter- Will, and to perform all that ispromifed, 
therefore in confirmation, He fubfcribeth and 
fets down His Name, ]er. 31. 35. Thus faith 
the Lord; and that His Sublcription may be 
of weight with all Men, He defigns Hmfeif by 
His (lately Stiles or Titles,taken from His Crea- 
tion and Government of the Creatures, Thus 
faith the Lord, which giveth the Sun for a Light by 
Day, and the Ordinances of the Moon and of the Stars 
for a Light by Night, which divideth the Sea when 
the Waves thereof roar ; the Lord of Ho ft s 1$ His 
Name. 

This He faith, led the Faith His People ihould 
be fhaken, by their looking to Impediments and 
Difficulties, and that they may gather Strength 
and Courage to go on in the Lord's way con- 
llantly, when they confider the Power of God 
in the Workmanfhip and Government; of the 
World. 

1 8. Unto His Subfcription, He addeth, both 
Witnefles and Pledges of His Promiks ,l r erf. j<$. 
If thofe Ordinances depart from, before Me, faith 
the Irordi then the Seedof\i\-jLQl(\vl\ich compre- 
hend- 



BOOK t [ 200 ] CHAP. VII. 

hendeth the Seed of Abraham's Faith) /hall 
c&tfe-frvm being a Nation before Me for ever 
VerC 3 6. 

19. Laft of all, left any Man, in the conside- 
ration of the Grievoufnefs of his Sin, or of the 
apparent impoilibility of performing thefe Pro- 
mi fes, fhould doubt, of RemiiTion of Sins to be 
granted to the Confederat, or of the Perfeverance 
of the true Believer, or of the Perpetuation of 
the Church, the Lord bids His People that come 
in to Him, be confident and quiet, Verfn* fay- 
ing, If Heaven above can be meafured. ami the 
Foundations of the Earth fe arched out beneath, I will 
alfo cafi off all the Seed of\{xxt\,for all that they 
have done, faith the Lord. Now, both thefe are 
impoflible, that we can.meafure the Heavens,or 
feardi the bottom of the Earth; Therefore it is 
impoffibie, that this Covenant and the Promifes 
made therein, ihould fail.- 

The manner of Difpenftng the New Covenant outward- 
ly and inwardly. 

AS to the Difpenfation of this Covenant,both 
outwardly and inwardly. Firfl, ThisPro- 
rnife of a New Covenant, is a challenge againit 
the mif-believing Fathers, who (lighted the Of- 
fer of Grace, and followed after the Covenant 
of Works, feeking Righteoufnefs by Works; 
which Covenant of Works, they were not able 
to -perform, and it feryed unto them only for 

their 






BOOK I. [ 201 } CHAP. VII. 

their Condemnation : This the Apoftle doth col- 
led: from this place of Jeremiah, Heb. 8. 8. He 
found fault with the Fathers. 

Secondly, The Apoftle obfcrveth the wonder- 
ful Mercy of God-, that whiieHe is findingfaulc 
with the Incredulity of the Fathers, who lived 
under this old Covenant, Be will avenge this 
their Incredulity, Ignorance, Foolifhnefs and In- 
gratitude, by telling them, that He will make a 
new Covenant, and give them that were then 
living a taftc of it, for recovering them, finding 
fault with them, He faith, The Days come, that 
I will make a new Covenant. 

thirdly, This Covenant of Grace made with 
the Church, is procured by Chrift, to this end, 
that the Covenant o{ Redemption might be brought 
unto a real accomplifhment by the Covenant of 
Grace. This Obfervation is grounded upon this, 
that Chrift is called the Mediator of this better 
Covenant, Heb. 8. 6. For He will draw up a 
clear Covenant of Grace with His People, that 
the Bleftings purchafed unto them, according to 
the Covenant of Redemption, may be applied 
unto them by this Covenant of Grace and Recon- 
ciliation. 

Fourthly, The preaching of the Promife of 
this new Covenant, is a moft fit mean to draw 
on and dole this Covenant of Grace between 
God & His People, who are the Called according 
to His Purpofe : This Obfervation is gathered 
frem Jeremiah's Preaching, and FauFs Preach- 



es 



BOOK I. [ 20i ] CHAP. Vn, 

ing of this unto the Hearers of the Golpel, to this 
very intent and purpofc. 

Fifthly, In the Promifing and Preaching 
of this Covenant of Grace, God will have 
all Mens Opinions, Thoughts and Concepti- 
ons about this Miftery, limited unto, and 
depending upon,His Mouth alone, revealing the 
fame in His WordrThis Obfervation is gathered 
from theLord's invitation of all Men to take heed 
whatHe is to (ay,and what He is to let forth in this 
matter. Behold the Days come, faith the Lord, 
wherein I will do fuch and fuch Things, which 
now I fore-tell I will do. 

Sixthly, Both the making and way of making 
a Covenant with Man, dependeth abfolutely on 
God, either to make a Covenant or not, to make 
what Covenant He pleafethto make, upon what 
Conditions He pleafeth, and with what Perfons 
He pleafeth to make His Covenant. No Man 
ever preveened God, defiring Him to make a 
Covenant, but God did preveen ail Men, He 
preveened Adam once before his Fall, and again 
by preaching the Gofpel in his audience after 
the Fall, He preveened the Fathers in the 
Wildernefs, He preveened his Pofterity, that 
have lived or fhall live in the latter Days, 
p^pmifing to make a Covenant with thefe 
vyiio were not come into the World, but were 
ogme long after the Promifc. 
I Seventhly, The Lord will have all Men 
tpunderlland, thaf the End of His Covenants 

ing 



BOOK I. [ 203 ] CHAP. Vlt. 

ingwith Men, both in that Old dark Form, and 
in the New clear Form, is His own Glory : For, 
He hath made all things for Himfelf, even 
the Wicked for the Day of EviL This Obfer- 
vationis gathered, partly, from this, that the 
Lordbringeth forth His Soveraignty for aRea- 
fon of His Reje&ing of the Mif-believing 
Fathers in the Wildernefs, / defpifed them, I re- 
garded them not ; / Lorded it over them, as the 
Original may bear. And partly, from this, 
that He bringeth forth His own Will and Plea- 
fure for a Reafon of His fhewing Grace to their 
Poflerity, / will forgive their Sins, &c. 

8. He Iheweth alfo that in His Works He 
doth not depend upon Man, but that all His 
Works are known unto Him from the Beginning, 
and that it is determined by Himfelf, what, 
and how, and by what Means, He will do e- 
very Thing. This may appear from this, that 
He doth fore-tell what He is to do about the 
Saving of His EledJ, Jews and Gentiles, being 
no lefs certain to do what He promifed about 
the Polterity to come, than He was certain of 
what was paft already about their incredulous 
Fathers. 

9. The Lord will have us to know, that lay- 
ing afide the confideration of His Decrees, it is 
(imply in the power of God to punilh Sin,in whom 
He will, and pardon Sin through a Mediator 
to whom He will, that is, to have, Mercy on 

whom 



BOOK I. [ 204 ] CHAP. VII. 

whom He will have Mercy, and to Pardon 
whom He will Pardon. This is collected from 
this, that the Fathers do fin in, the Wildernefs 
and juftly Perifh, and the Pofterity do fin and 
are gracioufly Pardoned. 

10. In all this proceeding, no violence isufed 
upon the Will of Men, whether of them that 
Perifh, or of them that are Saved. The Saved 
do walk freely in the way of Salvation, as 
their hearty choife ; and thefe that Perifh, walk 
willingly in the way of Perdition. God proceeds 
with both by a voluntary Covenant, as this place 
doth fhevv. 

11. In them that Perifh, the meritorious and 
culpable Caufe of their Perdition is in themfelves^ 
but in them that are Saved, no Caufe is found 
at all, but the Caufe is foutid in God's Grace 
ailenerly. This is collected from this, that the 
Lord giveth the Reafon of the Perdition of the 
mif-believing Fathers, from their Sins and trarrf- 
greffion of Covenant, they tranfgrejfed My Cove- 
nant, and I dejpijed them; and of the Salvation 
of their Pofterity, no other caufe but this, their 
Sins I will not remember any more. 

12. The Lord's Juflice is cleared in the Perdi- 
tion of them that perifh, becaufe He gave Pre- 
cepts and Promifes, and other moral Motives 
to hinder them from Sinning, and to move them 
to keep His Ways, albeit He did not efFe&ually 
impede their running on to Sin according to their 
Inclination^ and pronenefs to follow their own 

way 



BOOK I. [ ^os ] CHA'P. VII, 

. This is collected from this, that the Lord 
faith, He made a Covenant with their Fathers 
and they did break it. 

1 3. It pleafeth God, not only to give His Pre- 
cepts unto Men, concerning their Duty, but al- 
fo to condefcend fo far unto them,as to open up 
in a part His Decrees and deep Defigns about 
about Men's Salvation,that they being admitted 
fomewhat near to the Treafures of His 
Wifdom, Goodnefs, Juftice and Mercy, might 
be fo much the more wife, and the more ftir- 
red up to dilcharge their Duty, and make u(e 
of His Difpentanon. This we colled from His 
Revealing of the Decree of Election of the Po- 
fterity of IJrael, and drawing them effectually 
into a Covenant of Grace with Himfelf. 

14. The Lord doth reveal to the World the 
Doctrine of Election unto Life, only in the ge- 
neral, and doth not defcend to the nomination 
of them in particular. This is collected from 
this, that He doth promife to Convert and draw 
into a New Covenant Grace, the Pofterity of 
Ifrael and Judah, without naming particularly 
thefe that were defigned for that Salvation. 

15*. Albeit the Lord keepeth up the Names 
of the Elecl: (except of tome few) before their 
Converfion,yet,He giveth forth Marks and Evi- 
dences, whereby after their Converfion, they 
may be known both to themfelves and others. 
This we collect from this, that He fets down in- 
fallible Marts of the Eled, who are to be Gods 

CO- 



BOOKI. [zo6] CHAP. VII. 

covenanted People or Worlhipers of God, that 
they do know God, and have His Law written 
in their Hearts and inward Parts. 

1 6. As for the Reprobation of any Man,the Lord 
hath given no certain Mark as long as they live 
(except that malicious & Wilful rejecting Stoppe- 
ring of known Chrift Jefus) to the intent that none 
fhould dare to exclude, either themfelves or o- 
thers from Repentance and hope of Mercy, fo 
long as the day of God's long-fuffering & patience 
doth laft. This is colle&ed from this, that God 
doth not make mention of the Reprobation of 
thefc mif-believilig Fathers, while they are liv- 
ing, but now long after they are dead ; and this 
mention making of them, is in general only, and 
not by naming them particularly. 

1 7. Albeit in the Difpenfation of the Covenant 
of Grace, for application of Saving Mercies,the 
Matter be fo wifely carried by God, that both 
the Decree and Covenant of Redemption is keep- 
ed clofs, as to particular Names, and yet it is 
zffedtually made out in the applying of Grace 
to individuaiPerfons, as the Agreement is made 
between God & Chrift Mediator ; yet the Cove- 
nant of Redemption is made this far clear.that it 
did not pafs for die Conversion & Salvation of All 
& Every Man,by this Evidence,that not fo much 
as the Offer of the Covenant of Grace and Re- 
conciliation fhall be made to All and Every Na- 
tion, far lefs to All and Every fiilgular Perfbn: 
But that the People and Nation of Ifrael and J«- 



BOOK I. [ io 7 ] CHAR VIIL 

Jab is chofibn out of all People and Nations in the 
World, comprehending fuch others as fliould be 
called unto their Society, arid the fcllowfhip of 
the Olive-tree among them, asPfal. 147. 19,20. 
holdeth forth. And in this place the whole Eledfc 
under the Gpfpel are taken up under the Name 
of this one Nation. 

18, That the Decree of Eledtion offome,may 
both be keeped up as to particular Nomination, 
and yet have certain Execution and be preform- 
ed, the Lord taketh up all His Confederate whe- 
ther in the Letter or Spirit, alfo under the fame 
common Name. This is gathered from this; 
that the misbelieving jfraelites that perifhed in 
the Defart, with whom God made a Covenant 
and they did break it, are defigned under the 
common Name of Fathers, and are taken up in 
that Covenant under the Name oiSpotfe. Jer.31. 
}x. and theEledt Poftcrity are taken up under 
the common Name of the Houle of Ifrael &JuJah. 
■ 19.S11CI1 as the Covenanters are,in regard of their 
inward Eftate,fuch is the Covenant wherein they 
really are ,or fuch is the Covenant in relation to 
their perfons. Unto the Reprobat, who do change 
for their part the Covenant of Grace into the 
Covenant of Works, the Covenant of Grace be- 
cometh in effedtthe Covenant of Works, and is 
rendered void to them, as the Apoftle doth 
threaten the Galatians. Gal. 5. 4. and as did 
befal the Pharisaical Fathers, who are here de- 
clared as Inftancesjbut the Covenant of Grace unto' 

& rite 



BOOK I. [ xoS ] CHAP. VII. 

the Eled and trueBelievers,remainsftill the Co- 
venant of Grace, from which they do not fall, 
nor can fall, altogether as the companion here be- 
tween the Fathers in the Wildernefs and their 
Elect Pofterityinaketh evident. 

20. The Lord hath wifely joined Life with the 
Means and Way to Life, and Death with the 
Way to Death, and will not have that fepara- 
ted which He hath joined. This is colledied 
from this, that the Fathers by not continuing in 
the Covenant, are Defpifed and Rejected of 
God, and fo Periilied ; but their Eled: Pofterity 
having the Law of God in their Hearts, and 
cleaving conftantly unto the Lord, are Saved. 

21. The Lord will have this Do&rine taught 
where His Word is preached, concerning the Ele- 
ction of fome, and Reprobation of other fome ; 
of God's Covenanting with feme People and 
Perfons, and not offering a Covenant to other 
fome ; of Covenanting with fome in the Letter, 
and with other fome in the Spirit alfo, to this 
end and intent, that Men, leaving the fearching 
in particular of that which God hath keeped 
fecret in the particular,may follow commanded 
Duties,Repent their Sins ,and flee to Chrift offe- 
red unto them,and take up His Yoke upon them, 
and beware that they neither Defpair, nor yet 
Prefume, or turn the Grace of God into Wanton- 
nefs. This we gather from this, that God fen- 
deth forth Jeremiah to preach theie Things, not 
only to the vifible Church of die Jews going in- 
to 



BOOK I. [ 209 1 CHAP. VII. 

to Exile and Captivity, but alfb to all who fhall 
hear this Do&rine from Him, to the End of the 
World. And the Apoftle, repeating this Do- 
ctrine for the ufe of the Chriftian Church of 
Jews and Gentiles, doth confirm this. 

CHAP. VIII. 

Of the prudent Application of Divine Covenants in 
general 

HAving fpoken of theft Three Divine Cove* 
nants concerning Mens Salvation,it follows 
now to fpeak of the Application thereof, Firft, 
in general, and then more fpecially. 

In the matter of Application, we muff, Firft, 
look upon God's effectual applying and work- 
ing in the Hearers of thefe Covenants, fuch Ef- 
fects as He hath intended by thefe Covenants 
to bring to pafs i Next, We muff look upon the 
Means whereby He ordinarly doth convey and 
work His intended Works in Men. And Third- 
ly, We muft look upon the prudent way of ufe 
making of theft Mcails, both by Paftors and 
People, for Peoples good. 

2. As to the Firft, the Lord's effectual Appli- 
caion, is a real and adtual bellowing the good 
of theft Covenants upon His own, byway of 
powerful working on their Spirits. Such as are 
i. The giving the Grace ofUndcrftandingofthc 
Scripture: And, 2. The belief of what is under- 
ftoodrAnd, 3. The Application of the Dodrine of 
the Law,concerning Mens Sin and Miftry to their 
O % •wn 



BOOK I. [ no ] CHAP. Vltf, 

own Confcicnce: And, 4.the making them judge 
themfelves according to the Law: And 5. The 
raifing of Sorrow in their Hearts and Fear of 
Wrath; And, 6, The fetting of their Eye upon 
Chrift,for Delievery from Sin and Death. And,7. 
The making them perceive a poffibility and pro- 
bability that they may be Saved: And, 8.Tohave 
an earneft Defire after Reconciliation withGod in 
Chrift : And 9. The making of His own to caft 
themfelves over on Chrift,and to believe on Him: 
And, 10. The making them to Confecrat them- 
felves to God in Chrift,reconciling the World of 
meer Grace to Himfelfyiot imputing Tranfgreflion 
to the Reconciled through Chrift; And, 11. The 
making them to wonder at the Riches of the 
. free Grace of God,whoin a felf-condemncd Sin- 
ner defirous to be reconciled with Him,requireth 
no perional Dignity, no good work which may 
commend him to God, but only that he would 
receive and welcome Chrift offered in the Go- 
fpel.as the only neceflary and fufficient Remedy 
againft all Sin and Mifery requiring no other con- 
dition,but that he flee from the Curfe of the Law, 
and theWrath to come unto Chrift the Redeemer, 
who oflferethHimfelf unto loftSinners inthe preach 
ing of the Gofpel, that through Him the Belie- 
ver may be Juftified,and Sanctified ,and Saved for 
ever: And ,12. after wondering raifed in the Hearts 
of His Children, the making them cleave clofly 
to Chrift, and to ftrive againft all Temptations, 
which might w 7 eaken their Faith, and to rejoyce 

in 



BOOK I. [ in ] CHAP. VIII. 

in Bclieving,and to be zealous for the Lord's Glo- 
ry, and careful to bring forth more and more 
Fruits of Faith & Love, and working fuch other 
gracious Works of His Spirit in His Children, 
as may more and more mortifie Sin in them,and 
perfed: the Image of God in His New Creature. 
This Divine,Magifterial and Effectual Applica- 
tion of real BleiIings,belongeth to God only,and 
is the end of all ministerial Application, which 
is of the external Means appointed of God.to be 
made ufeof by Men, the Bleiling whereof mull 
be left to God, to bellow on whom,how,and in 
what meafure,and on what time it pleafeth Him, 
as the Apoitle doth ihew unto us, i Cor. 3. 6. 
I have planted, and Apollos hath watered y lut God 
giveth the increafe. 

3. The external Means, which do (erve unto 
the forefaid Divine Operations,are, 1. The Do- 
ctrine of Life and Salvation fet down in Scrpture, 
to be heard and read by all Men,and meditat up- 
on with Prayer for a Bleffing; And 2. Sent Mi- 
ni fters,to whom God hath committed the word 
of Reconciliation, by whofe Miniftery Difciples 
may be made unto Chrift out of all Nations ; 
And, 3. The Adminiftration of the Sacrament, 
whereby they,with their Children,are Baptized, 
and gathered together in fcveral Churches, and 
put under the Government of fuch Church-offi- 
cers, as His Teftament hath appointed • And, 
4. Thefe Churches joined together in the 
mod edifying way of mutual Communion, 
O 3 and 



BOOK I. [iii] CHAP. Vm. 

and ftrengthening one another in true Do&rine, 
pure Woriliip and Discipline, which God's Pro- 
vidence doth make way for, that the Kingdom 
of our Lord Jefus may continue and grow in the 
World, and all His Ordinances may be exerci- 
fed publickly and privatly,to the bell advantage 
of the Church, for perfecting of the Saints, 
for the work of the Miniftry, and for the edify- 
ing of the Body ofChrift,as the Apoftle requir- 
eth, Ephef. 4. 12, 13, 14. 

4. In the ufe of thefe external Means, and fpe- 
dally in the Application of thefe Three Cove- 
nants, Prudence is required, both in Paftors 
and People, to which intent and purpofe thefe 
following Confiderations may ferve. 

1. The Remedy of every Sicknefsof the Con- 
fcience muft be grounded on the Dodxine of 
Salvation fet down in Scripture ; which Doc- 
trine, muft, Firft, be known and believed by 
the Party difeafed, before he can receive Bene- 
fit thereby; And therefore that a prudent Ap- 
plication of wholfome and faving Doctrine may 
be made, of neceflky the Party difeafed muft be 
acquainted with the Dodhrinc to be applyed un- 
to him, before he can make ufe thereof to his 
advantage. For, Experience teacheth us, how 
hardly grofs Ignorants can be convinced of Sin, 
and how hardly fuch can be comforted, when 
their Conference is wakened with the Terrors of 
God, becaufe they neither know from the Word, 
of God the caufe of the Terror & Anxiety where- 
in 



BOOK I. [ 213 1 CHAR VIII. 

in they are, nor can they be capable of the Re- 
medy of their Evil, except they, Firfl be Cate- 
chifed in the Heads of the Saving Do&rine, 
held forth in the Law and Goipel, which Inftru- 
dion can hardly be given or received in a fhort 
time; and howfocver a prudent Paflor mud make 
ufe of time as it is offered, yet when Death is 
hear to the Party to be inftru&ed, how little is 
it that can be expected to be done ? 

i.The order of applying Saving Dodrine,doth 
not begin at the Application either of the Cove- 
nant of Redemption, or atthd£ovenantof Grace, 
but he that will follow a right order,muft begin 
at the Law and Covenant of Works, under the 
Yoke whereof we are all born by Nature, Chil- 
dren of Wrath. And if a Man apply that Cove- 
nant and Law to his Heart, and fubfenbe his 
own Ditty anddeferved Condemnation,then may 
he turn up his Soul to Chrift Jefus the Redeem- 
er, aud fly to Him for Refuge, and accept the 
Offer which He makes in His Gofpel of a 
New Covenant of Grace, for pardoning of Sin, 
and reconciling unto God in Himfelf thcPerfon 
who is fled unto Him, and for Sanctifying and 
Saving of him; which Covenant, when a chafed 
Soul doth content unto,and layeth hold on Chrift 
offered for Relief from Sin, Wrath, Death, and 
Hell, then may he afcend by Faith unto the Co- 
venant of Redcmptiot^and apply tahimfelf with 
God's aliowancc,all the Saving Graces purchafed 
by Chrift, by that Covenant, to all that fly unto 
Him and believe in Him, 2. This 



BOOK I. [ 214 ] CHAP. VIII 

3. This order of making ufc of thefe Three 
Covenants,many do not follow, but they begin 
at the Covenant of Redemption, ^nd will either 
be fatisfied about this, whether they be Ele&ed 
or not, given to Chrift to be Redeemed, or not 
(which is a Secret and not to be enquired in- 
to, favein God's order, as we havefliown) or 
clfe they will not enter upon the ufe-making of 
thefe Means,which God hath appointed to bring 
a Man to Repentance and Faith in Chrift. This 
is aTentation of Satan, which if they yield un- 
to, it fhalllead them either to refolute Profani- 
ty with Cain, or to anxious Defperation with 
Judas. 

4. There are fome alfo,who make Leap-year 
of the Covenant ofWorks,and do take no notice 
of their own natural Sinfulnefs or Wrath due ro 
them,& lying on them by Nature;but neglecting 
this order do (tart a Race,and run to aprefump- 
tuous avouching of their Faith in Chrift,and will 
thruft inthemfelves inthe Numberofthe Eled:, 

fiven before the World was, unto Chrift to be 
adeemed and Saved, pretending their believing 
of the Gofpel, when they have not believed the 
Dodhne of the Law, and fo do turn the Grace 
©f God into Lafcivioufnefe and Wantonnefs, and 
go about the fatisfying and fulfilling of their 
ownLufts: Wherefore it is neceflary, that e- 
very Man who feeketh to be Saved, and hath 
refolved to follow God's Way to attain unto Sal- 
vation, do begin, Fir ft, At the Covenant of 

Works, 



BOOK I. [ 21? ] CHAP. VIII, 

Works, and examine himfelf according to the 
Rule of the Moral Law, how he hath behaved 
himfelf in Obedience unto the Firft and Second 
Table,and having found aDitty great enough,that 
he judge himfelf and pafs Sentence on himfelf, 
as guilty and worthy of everlafting Wrath for his 
Sins. Secondly, When he is convinced of Sin and 
deferved Wrath, and of his own utter Impotency 
to deliver himfelf,then let him flee to Chri{t,and 
lay hold on the Grace offered in the Gofpel, ap- 
pling the fame to his burthened Confcience, ac- 
cording to the Tenor of the Covenant of Grace 
fully revealed in the Gofpel. And Thirdly, when 
he hath in earned confented unto the Covenant 
of Grace and Reconciliation, and hath laid hold 
on Chrift, with unfeigned Faith, fceking in Him 
Remiflion of Sin, a#d Reno vation of Life,being 
refolved by the Grace of Chrift.to ufethe Means 
appointed of Him for that end : Now it is time, 
and not till now, to look, up unto the Cove- 
nant of Redemption, and there to read his own 
Name, as it were, written in the Book of Life, 
and to acknowledge, that the meafurc of Re- 
pentance and Faith in Chrift, beftowed on him- 
felf now in experience, hath flowed from that 
Fountain of God's Love and free Grace through 
Chrift. b 

Except this Order be keeped, a Man cannot 
warrantably, and with confidence and comfort, 
make Application of thefe Covenants. Hence it 
followeth, thgtt it is a prepofterous and perilous 



courfc 



BOOK I. [ zi6 ] CHAR VIIL 

courfe which fome do follow,and prefs others to 
follow, that prefently upon the Hearing of the 
Gofpel, every Man fhould believe, that Chrift 
hath died for him: For, Chrift calleth no Man, 
warrandeth no Man to come to Him, except 
he, firft,do acknowledge his Sins,and himfelf to 
be worthy of Wrath, Condemnation and Hell,for 
his Sins,and to be utterly unable to Save himfeif 
by any Mean,faveby Chrift: For, (Luke y. 31.) 
Chrift faith, / came not to call the Righteous, but 
Sinners unto Repentance. Neither doth Chrift re- 
quire of any Man, to believe himfelf to be of the 
number of Chrift's Sheep for whom He laid down 
His Life, except he come by Faith as a loft Sin- 
ner to Him, and fubmit himfelf to His Dodrine 
and Difcipline, and paftoral Care over him : 
For, (Joh. 17. 9J Chrift faith, I pray not for the 
World, but for the fe thou haft given Me out of the 
World : And no Man ihall know, that himfelf 
is given of the Father to Chrift,till firfthecome 
in the order forefaid unto Chrift, and when he is 
come to Chrift, refolveth to abide with Him, 
then may he fay, the Father hath given me to 
Chrift, and drawn me to Chrift : For, this is 
the Mark which Chrift giveth, Joh. 6. 37. All 
that the Father hath given unto Me.fhall come to Me. 
And again, Verf 44. No Man cometb unto Me .ex- 
cept the Father draw him. 

3. There is an Order alfo to be obferved in 
the Application of the Graces offered in the Go- 
ipel;for ; in the Evange,lFirft ; Chrift Himfelf is of- 
fer- 



BOOK I. [ xi7 3 CHAP. VIII. 

fered, as the only and fufficient Remedy againft 
Sin and Mifery;and Next, unto the Perfon that 
receiveth Chrift heartily, all Chrift's Benefits are 
promifed to come to him by Chrift,and are to be 
found in and through Chrift, fuch as are Juftifi- 
cation, Adoption, the indwelling of the Holy 
Ghoft,Love, Joy,Peace, Gentleneis,Bounty, Fide- 
lity,Meekne(s,Temperance, and other Chriftian 
Graces, Gal. 5. 22. For, no Man hath right unto 
Chrift's Benefits,before he be a Believer in Chrift. 
I3ut fo foon as a Man,in the forefaid order is fled 
unto Chrift,and hath laid hold on Him by Faith, 
ftraight way a Door and Entrefs is opened unto 
him unto the rich Treafure of Grace, and Right 
is given to him unto all the Benefits of Chrift ; 
For,all the Promifes are Yea and Amen, not be- 
fore a Man come to Chrift,notto a Man without 
Chrift, but they are ail Yea and Amen in Chrift. 
4. Therefore they wrong both God and their 
own fel ves, who when they come unto the Throne 
of Grace,do prefcribe unto God another order of 
working, then He hath fet down in His Word, 
craving,in the Firft place Conlblation and kn- 
fible Peace in their Confdcnce,fe!i: in theirHearts; 
& that God would work tome Rich Saving Graces 
in cheirHeart,which the Reprobat cannot counter- 
fir.which diredions,if God will take off their hali4 
& befto w His Graces on them fenfibly as they pre- 
fenbp unto Him, then they will ftand obliged 
to continue in the Faith of Chrift; but if they 
find nQt their Dire&ions obeyed,and their Peti- 
tions 



BOOK I. [ «8 ] CHAP. V[H. 

tions in their order granted, then with grief of 
Heart they begin to complain, and to pretend 
that they dare not approach unto God or Chrift, 
fo long as thefe Petitions are not firft granted, 
and felt to be granted. 

This Temptation doth invert and overturn the 
order of God's Calling: For,Chrift doth not call 
unto him Well-doers, or thefe that do found their 
Faith upon their own good Behaviour, and lean 
to their own Works, which they defire to find in 
themfelves, before they fatten Faith on Chrift; 
but Chrift doth call Sinners in their own fenfe 
and acknowledgement, who renounce all confi- 
dence in their own Works,paft,prefent, or to come; 
He calleth iuch as are loft in their ownfenfe,and 
do feel themfelves utterly unable To much as to 
think a good Thought of themfelves, that they 
may be cloathed with the imputed Righteoufnels 
of Chrift, and endued with the Spirit of Sandifi- 
cation by Him ; and Chrift's Willis, that they 
who believe in Him,abide in Him, and fuck by 
Faith out of Him(as the Branches do fuckfap out 
of the Tree) Grace to bring forth Fruits more and 
more aboundantly: For, this is the order which 
Chrift doth prefcribe unto his Difciples, Job. 1 y, 
5. He that abideth in Me, and I in him, the fame 
Iringeth forth much fruit: for without Me ye can do 
nothing. Whofoever therefore will not believe 
in Chrift,ordo think it is not lawful to approach 
unto Him,till firft they find in themfelves amend- 
ment of Life, and evidenr Fruits of Saving Faith, 

they 



BOOK I. [ 219 ] CHAP. VIII. 

they do in effed change the Condition of the 
Covenant of Grace, and do fulpend their Faith 
in Chrift till they find Works to build upon, when 
it were their Duty, the more they feel their Bar- 
rennefs,fo much the more ftraitly to lay hold on 
Chrift and hold Him faltand ply Him with ear- 
ned Supplications to make good His promife to 
them who do abide in Him. Joh. 15-. 5. 

5. It isneceflary to prete every Man,who doth 
believe his Juftification by Faith,that he be care- 
ful to obfervethe Moral Law or Ten Commands, 
as the perpetual and unchangeable Rule of good 
Works prefcribed of God : f or, Chrijl came not to 
deftroy the Law, lut to fulfil it, Matth. 5. 17. He 
hath indeed,unto Believers in Him, diflblved the 
Covenant of the Law, not only by His Dodrine, 
teaching them, that by the Works of the Law no 
flefli fliallbejuftified in the fight of God,becaufe 
by the Law,is the knowledge of Sin gotten, but 
no Abfolution from Sin, Rom. 3. 20. Butalfo by 
Abfolving every Believer in Him, that walketh 
not after the Flefli, but after the Spirit, from all 
Condemnation, Rom. 8. 1. Mean while He hath 
not broken the Yoke of Obedience of the Law 
from ofFthe Believer, as He hath b roken off 
the Yoke of the Covenant* of Works; but by the 
contrair, He preienbes to them who come unto 
Him for RemifTion of Sin,that they take on His 
Yoke upon them, and bring forth Works 
of new Obedience, Matth. 11. 29. and this 
is the order which the Apoftle doth pre- 

(cribe 



BOOK I. [ no ] CHAR VHi. 

fcribe. Tit. 3.8, This is a faithful Saying, andthefe 
Things T will thou affirm con/lantly, that they which 
have belie-ved in God, might be careful to maintain 
good Works: thefe Things are good and profitable 
mto Men. 

6* The moral Precepts of the Law are fo to 
be preffed,that the Hearers whether un-converted 
or converted,may by them, whether in fome mea- 
fure obeyed or difobeyed, be driven to Chrift, 
that the Law may ever,in fome fort, be a Peda- 
gogue untoChrift:For,before Converfion,Sin mufl 
be made manifeft by the Lav ,and the merit of Sin 
committed,muft be fliown lorth,that the Man to 
be converted may fee himfelf in aloft condition, 
and that he mufl certainly perifli, except he flee 
for Refuge to Chrift the Redeemer, that by 
Him he may have RemifTion of Sin. 

And after a Mans Converfion, the Believer 
muft,by the Precepts of the Law, be convinced 
of his Duty, and inability to perform Obedience 
except by Grace,Power be communicated unto 
him from Chrift, both to will and to do. And 
when he hath gotten Grace to give obedience 
in fome meafure,yet muft he examine his bed 
Works by the Rule of the Commands, and ac- 
knowledge the Imperfection of his Service, that 
he may be more and more humbled in himfelf, 
and glory only in the imputed Righteoufnefs 
of Chrift,and withal give unto Chrift the Glo- 
ry of any good thing which he hath in any 
meafure done well. 

7 The 



BOOK I. [ 2^I ] CHAP. VIII. 

7. The Threatnings alfo all of them,muft fo be 
applied in general,as both Converted & tin-con- 
verted may be forced to run to Chrift, Who only 
can deliver the Un-converted from Guiltinefs and 
Wrath, and Death eternal deferved by Sin; and 
Who only c an deliver thofe who are Converted 
from the deferved Puniihment of their Sins, and 
from the Execution of the Sentence which the 
Law pronounceth,& Who only can make them e- 
ihew and hold offthe way which God hath curfed. 

And it is eafy to judge how much caufe of Hu- 
miliation the Godly {hall have,by daily compar- 
ing their Actings with the Law, and how dear 
and precious Chrift muft be to them, Who giv- 
cth unto them,as many Deliverances from Death, 
as they commit Sins, and do fail of their obli- 
ged Obedience to God. 

8. A Sinner already convi&ed of Sin aodlmpe- 
nitency,and hardnefs of his own Heart,and who 
is grieved for the fame, muft not be skarred nor 
deterred from going unto Chrift,till he firft attain 
fuch a prefcribed meafure of Contrition as he con- 
ceiveth hisSins do call for; which meafure,unskil- 
ful Phyficians do rigidly exad: of Sinners, who are 
defirous of Repentance, pretending for their Ri- 
gidity,their Fear,left if fuch Sinners fliould be fo 
eafily admitted unto Chfift, the work ofRepen- 
tance fliould be marred in them,and Prefumption 
fhould have way and be foftered in them: This 
Fear is needlefs,becaufe it belongs to Chrift alone 
to give Repentance.and He came to call Sinners 

(cea- 



BOOK I. [ 2ii ] CHAP. VIII. 

(convi&ed of Sin and deftitute of Repentance,in 
their own eftimation and fenfe) unto Repentance, 
that He may give them Repentance. We grant 
that thereisaDanger,left a Sinner lightly touch- 
ed with the Sting of the Confcience,do not well 
weigh the weight of his Sin and the merit of it, 
and that he go to Chrift with his Lips only, when 
his Heart is far from Him ; but, on the other 
Hand, there is no lefs hazard, left he who is 
deftitute of Repentance in his own fenfe^ and not 
permitted to go to Chrift to have it, may either 
be driven to Defpair, or conceive, that by his 
own Pains on his own Heart, Repentance muft 
be wrought before he go to ChtiftyWhom God hath 
exalted with His right Hand to he a Prince and a 
Saviour y for to give Repentance unto Ifrael, and 
Remiffion of Sins. A&s 5. 31. 

We muft be wary therefore, left a burdened 
Confidence in any meafure,being excluded from 
going to Chrift till he be in fuch and fuch a mea- 
i'ure humbled, fet himfelf fo upon bodily Exer- 
cife of Ordinances,without daring to go to Chrift, 
as that he put feme Merit in effedl,upon his bo-. 
dily Exercife which he ufeth, to bring himfelf 
unto Contrition, or elfe turn defperatly carelefs, 
and leave off all ufing of Means. 

We need not fear, that inftantly upon a Sinners 
coming to Chrift, he ihall find too foon Confola- 
tion, and fo not be humbled as need were : For, 
Chrift is only Wife, and can prudently deal with 
the Sinner coming unto Him \ He hath Eye-falve 

* id 



BOOK T. [ 223 1 CHAP. VIIL 

to give His proud Merchant, to let him fee hi$ 
Biindnefs, Poverty and Mifery, as well as Gold 
and Garments to the poor and naked t But if any 
be Proud and Rich in their own conceit, and ap- 
proach toward Him without fcnfe of Sin, He can 
fufperid them from Comfort, till firfl: He rebuke 
& chaften them, and" keep them off from felt ac- 
cefsa while,tilltheybetruely humbled,andthirft 
inearneft after Pardon & imputed Righteoufnefs. 
9. A$ the narrow way to the Kingdom of 
Heaven mud not be made flraiterthan God hath 
made it : Co neither muft the way be made broa- 
der than God hath made it; and Reignies loofed 
to Mens Lulls, a$ if Believers Siris Were either 
none, or but light ones : For, God is not a Fa- 
vourer of Sin, and vvhofoever do turn theGrace 
of God irito Wiintoiiiiefs, undoubtedly they are 
ignorant both of the Law and of the Gofpel. 
Wherefore the Law and the Gofpel mult be fo tem- 
pered, that on the one Hand, hone who would 
be at Chrift, and through Him at Mortinarcion 
of their finful Nature be difcouraged ; and on 
the other Hand, that no Man, feoafting of his 
Profeffion of Faith be (Irengthened in his Iniquity: 
For,this is the true Senfe and Intent of God, botli 
in His Threatningsand Proaiilcs, that none De- 
fpair, hearing Thrcaterdngs, bur Repent and 
Live; and that none prefiuiiC to Sin. upon hear- 
ing His Gracious Promifcs, but \Vaik in fear 
bcforeHim,£^33. 10,1 r,ix.'toFio. &Chri(t 
cloth blot out from the number of the Savdl all 

P th£n* 



BOOK I. [ 224 ] CHAP. VIII. 

them who break off] and make void any of the 
Precepts, and do teach Men fo to ^o.Mat.^.i^. 
10. Becaufe God doth make ufe of the fame 
Arguments in His Word,both for Moral Swafion, 
and for effectual Operation of Saving Faith,and 
bringing forth Fruits of New Obedience ; there- 
fore the force of God's Arguments and Induce- 
ments (as occafion is offered) mud fo be opened 
up, and lharpned and prefled, that the Hearers, 
being foundly convinced of the Holinefs,Equity, 
Verity and Neceflity of the Lord's Commands, 
may at leaft be morally perfwaded to yield unto 
them. And to this end, that Hearers muft be 
exhorted, that they call to Mind and weigh fuch 
and fuch Arguments unto Duties, that by reafon- 
ing with themfelves, they may prevail by God's 
Bleffing to believe the Word of God : So did 
Taul y directing his Speech to the Governor Felix, 
brafh the Caftle of his Confcience with this En- 
gine, that he near-by took it in, Att. 14.12,5. and 
io did he deal with Agrippa,. whom he near-by 
perfwaded to become a Chrifiian, Ails, x6. 28. 
and this was his endeavour to perfwade all his 
Hearers to believe the Truth he taught, 2 Cor. 
5. 11. Knowing therefore ( faith he) the terror of 
the Lord, we perfwade Men. And the fame Apo- 
ftle hath taught all Chrift's Difciples to exercife 
the Faculty of Reafoning,in the matter of ftrength- 
ening their Faith and purpoTe of Obedience, 
that having (et before them the Arguments which 
the Word of God doth furnifh, they may fum 

up 



BOOK I. [ zz$ ] CHAP. VIIJ. 

up the Truth in Conclusions drawn there-from, 
and by holy Reafoning, tye themfelves to be- 
lieve and obey the Word of God ,Rom.6.i i. Li lee- 
ways ( faith he) by reafoning, reckon ye your /elves 
to be dead unto Sin, hut alive unto God through Je- 
fus Chrift our Lord. And giveth an Example of 
this Reafoning, 2 Cor. 5. 14. 15. the Love of 
God conjlrainethm, lee aufe we thus judge, &c. 

11. Becaufe the Lord divers ways, according 
to His own Wifoom, exercifeth Men, that fome- 
tinie by His long-fuffering Patience He leads 
them unto Repentance, fometime alio by His 
Word and Rods, He doth drive them thereunto; 
therefore let the ufe of all Exercifes, all Tempta- 
tions and Afflictions, and the uieoi all Bene- 
fits and Divine Difpenfations of Providence, be 
carefully made ufe of, that Men may fo look u- 
pon God's Bounty and Loag-fufFeringon the one 
hand, and upon their own Sinsand Ui-defervings 
on the other hand, as they may be led and con- 
ftrained in love to feek after fo Gracious a God, 
and to flee for Refuge unto Chrift, mourning 
for their provoking of Juftice fo oft againft them- 
felves; and in whatfoever condition, of Prospe- 
rity or Adyerfity, to fubmit themfelves to God, 
however He lhall be, pleafed to difpofe of 
them. 

ix. The Dodtrine of Reprobation muft not be 
determinatly applyed to any particular Perfcn, 
how wicked foever he fliall for the prefent appear; 
neither mud the fufpicion which any Man may 

P z have 



BOOK I. [ zi6 ] CHAP. VIII, 

have of his own Reprobation be foftered, becaufc 
particular Reprobation of this or that perfoiij is 
among the Secrets of the Lord, not to be medied 
with, whereof a Man may not give out Sentence 
before the Lord hath revealed His own Decree. 
But on the contrair, all the Hearers mud be war- 
ned and prefsed to be wary to entertain any ho- 
ftile thought of God, or to fofter fufpicions of 
Him as implacable, but rather think of Him as 
their faithful Creator : Juft indeed, yet Merciful, 
Long-fuffering and Bountiful, both to the kind 
and the unkind, as they fhall find if they will 
leek Him : For,Satan wili prefs this Temptation, 
hard enough, and fofter the fufpicion which he- 
bath fuggefted againft God,in the Minds of them 
whom God hath afflicted, albeit he get no At 
Mance by any imprudent and unjuft application 
of the Lord's Word, unto this or that particular 
perfon, ro conclude their Reprobation. 

i j. The Scope of all Do&rine muft be this, 
ikii Sinners may be humbled in the fenfe of 
their Unrighteoufnefs, Indigence, Infirmity and 
Unworthinefs; and being humbled, may be led 
\mto Chrift, believe in Him, and be more and 
more glued unto Him, and grow in the love of 
Him, and reft their Souls -upon Him, as God, 
one with the Father and Holy Spirit, worfhip- 
ing Him in Spirit and Truth, endeavouring ac- 
cording to their Vocation to advance His 
Kingdom in themfelves and others. And 
to ihis end, let neither on the one Hand His 

lb* 



BOOK I. [ 117 ] CHAP. V1IL 

Incarnation, nor Humiliation in the Days of 
His Flefli, wherein He was in paying the pro- 
miled Price of our Redemption, derogat any 
thing to the eftimation of His Perlon, vvho is 
one God with the father and Holy Spirit, God 
over all bletTed for ever ; Nor on the other Hand, 
His Majcfty make Sinners (land oif, or be afraid 
to make their Addrefs to Him : but, by thecon- 
trair, that thcPerfonal Union of the Divine and 
Humane Nature in Him, andHisdoathing Him- 
felf with the Offices of Prophet, Prieft and King, 
may allure all Sinners, who hear of Him, to 
come to Him as Mediator, Who will not deal 
with them who come unto Him as a Judge 
againftthem, but as an Advocat, Surety, and 
Interceflbr for them, and Who will firup to the ut- 
termoll every one that come unto God through Hir/i, 
Heb. 7. 2,5*. 

14. For trial of a Man's Regeneration and 
coming rightly to Ch rift, and growing in Grace, 
the exercife of thefe Three Duties are ttcceffetly 
required, to wit : 1. The exercife of Repentance, 
or the entertaining in hicnfelf of the {enfe of his 
natural Sinfulnefs and Infirmity to do good, and 
of the power of inherent Corruptions, wherch" r 
he may be made more and more to renounce 
all confidence in himfeif, and walk liiifnbJy be- 
fore God. 

2. The exercife of Faith, orthedaily renew- 
ed employing of Chrift for Grace, and acUial 
Help in all things, as His Gate required;. 

3. The 



BOOK I. [ 228 ] CHAP. Vin. 

3. The exercife of Love, or the endeavour 
or new Obedience, flowing from love to God 
and his Neighbour through Clirift. 

CHAP. IX. 

Of the morefpecial Application of Divine Covenants, 
for removing the Impediments of Regeneration. 

WE have fpokenof the prudent Applica- 
tion of Divine Covenants in general, 
it followeth that we fpeak of the 
curing of theSickneffes of the Confcience concern- 
ing Regeneration more fpecially. Some of thefe 
Sicknefles, do tend to hinder Regeneration, that 
it be not wrought at all, whereof we fhall fpeak 
God wi i ling in the reft of this Firft Book. Other 
Sicknefles do tend to obfcure the Work of Re- 
generation begun, andtofofter Queftions in the 
Regenerat Man, and make him doubt whether 
he be Regenerat or not ? or whether he be in 
the ftate of Grace or not ? and of thefe we fhall 
fpeak fome-what in the Second Book. And 
laft of all, fome Cafes and Sicknefles of the 
Confcience, do tend toward the deceiving of 
the Regenerat Man about his prefent condition, 
wherein he is without calling his ftate in que- 
flion at the firft.; and of thefe we fhall fpeak in 
the Third Book. 

2. As for the Firft fort, thefe Cafes which im- 
pede and altogether marr Regeneration, cannot 
eafily be numbered, becaufc of the multitude, of 

De- 



I3UUK I. [ 219 J ^HAR IX. 

Deceits whereby the Unregcnerat are deluded ; 
but it fhall fuffice for our purpofe, to name 
fomeofthem only for Examples caufe; in handl- 
ing whereof the way of Curing other like Cafes 
may be obferved. 

In handling of thefe Cafes, it is not to be ex- 
pected we ihould follow any cxait Method, or 
accurat diftin&ion of otae Cafe from another ; 
partly becaufe many Faults may be varioufly in- 
terwoven one with another ; partly, becaufe in 
all thefe Cafes, the fame Faults are found after 
divers ways to put forth their Poifon. We 
therefore, that we may follow the eafieli courfe, 
fhall divide all Unregcnerat Men, impeding 
their own Regeneration, in three Ranks. The 
Firft Rank [hall be of thofe who efliew,{b far as 
they can, all Examination of their own Confid- 
ence, left it fliould pronounce Sentence of their 
ftate and difquiet them. The SecondRzrik. fhall 
be of thofe who do judge themfelves indeed ac- 
cording to the Law of God, but after Examina- 
tion do defpair of any Remedy. The Third 
Rank fhall be of thofe, who make a fl'ght Exa- 
mination of themfelves, and upon fome flight 
pretence give out Sentence of Abfolution of 
themfelves which God will not allow. 

3. As to the Firft Rank, to wit, of thofe 
that efhew all Examination of their own Con-. 
feicnce we fhall name only Seven Sicknefles, 
or impediments, hindering their Seif-cxami na- 
tion and paffing Sentence en themfelves. The 

P A Fuft 



BOOK I [ z]o ] CHAP. IX 

Firfh is grofs Ignorance of their natural Sin and 

M'ifery, and of Deliverance to be had through 

Chriil, and of the Duty required of them that 

arc delivered by Chrift. The Second js a falfe 

Religion, or damnable Error in Judgement about 

the Matters of Salvation and God's Worlhip : 

In which Error, fo long as a Sinner doth ly, he 

cannot be humbled for the damnable courfe he is 

in, or put queftion about his way. The Third 

is diffemhled Unbelief and Atheifm, covered over 

with grois Hypocnfy, which under hand doth 

rejedt the rule of Examination. The Fourth is 

tkp&rktijb^ Stupidity of the cauterized Confcience. 

The Fifth is a vain pretence of Fear to examine 

themfeives, left it drive them to Deiperation. 

The Sixth is a lazy Delaying of Examination 

from day to day. The Seventh is immoderat 

care fox Things of this Life. 

4. Concerning all thefe Impediments hinder- 
ing Self-examination, thefe Three Things are 
obfervable in general. 1. Albeit all, or fome, of 
thefe Evils may fall upon the Reprobat, yet 
are they nor their proper Maladies: For, fome 
of the Eiedt before their Regeneration, may ly 
for a time under one or moe of thefe Evils. Where- 
fore the Paftor, hoping the heft of all, becaufe 
hcKnpweth not the Marks of Reprobation, muft 
deal with all his Flearers to guard them againft 
?ll thefe Evils ; that the Eled, whom God will 
blefs with the Faith and Obedience of His Com- 
ma-ids, may be Saved, 

Second- 



BOOK I. [ 131 ] CHAP. XL 

Secondly, We mud deftinguifti between a 
voluntary Examination of the Confcience, where- 
unto the Godly do in their beft condition fet 
themfelves daily, and a forced Examination and 
wakning up of the Confcience, whether the Sin- 
ner will or not. This fort of Examination, may 
come either by Preaching of the Word, an Ex- 
ample whereof we have in Felix the Governour, 
who at the Hearing Paul's Difcourfe ofVertues 
and Vices, fell a trembling, Ail. 24. 25-. Or 
this wakning of the Confcience may come by 
Affliction whereof we have an Example of Jo- 
feph's Brethren, whofe Confciences did ly fleep- 
ing fecurely under the guilt of diftrefling their 
Brother Jofeph, but by affii&ion at length were 
wakened, Gen. 42. 21. The Pallors part here is, 
not only to exhort Men to a Voluntair Examina- 
tion of themfelves, but alfo by the Sword of the 
Spirit, muft labour to open the Apoftums of 
proud Sinncrs,difcovering unto them as occafion 
ferveth,their Wickediieis, and denouncing the 
Wrath of God againft them, if poffibly the Lord 
ihall give them Repentance, as He did to the 
hearers o£ Peter, A(5fe 2. 37. 

Thirdly, Let not a Preacher be toofollicit and 
anxious about the fuccefs of his Labours, when 
he hath to do with obftinat Sinners, whofe 
Confciences cannot be wakened, neither by 
Challenges, nor Threatnings, nor Exhortations ; 
But after he hath ufed Means publickly and 
privacly, let him commit^ the matter unto 

God 



BOOK I. [ y» ] CHAR IX. 

God, Who will have Mercy on whom He will 
have Mercy, and whom He will He hardeneth. 
It may fuffice him, that ail ChriiVs Sheep will 
at length hear His Voice. Only let not the 
Paftor defpair utterly of any Man, but even to- 
ward thofe that areExcommunicat, let him fol- 
low fuch a Courfe as may reduce them unto Re- 
pentance^ the Apoftle giveth diredion,.z Theft] 
3- 14- 1 S- 

For removing of the firfl Impediment of Self 
examination. 

BUt that we may fpeak more particularly of 
the Cure of thefe Sqvqh evil Difeafes, for 
removing of the Firfl Impediment, to wit, grofs 
Ignorance ; it is not needful to lay much of Ca- 
techetick Inftru&ion : feing in all Churches it is 
prefuppofed there is fome Form of a Catechife, 
wherein the Rudiments of Saving Knowledge 
are fet down, by way of Queftion and Anfwer, 
for the ufe of Children, and of the Ruder fort 
come to Years. Only, we offer to thofe that 
intend the Holy Miniftery, this Overture, for 
difpofing and preparing People, for a more eafy 
up-taking of fome formed Catechife : Becaufe 
moft part of formed Catechifes, are fomewhat 
larger than they can be read at one time, or be- 
ing read can be, explicat any other way than by 
parcels, io many Queftions and Anfwers at one 
time, and fo many at another time, which how 
hardly it can be all explicat to the whole Con- 
gregation, in a long time, Experience may bear 

wit- 



BOOK I. [ 133 3 CHAP. IX. 

witnefs;therefore it may ferve to good purpofe,if 
fo many of the Ruder and Ignorant fort, as may 
well be gathered together into one place at one 
time, the Paftor fliould profefs before them all, 
that he purpofeth to hold forth unto thcm,a fhort 
fum of Saving Dodtrine, in Six or Seven Heads 
of Do&rine; fo that in the fpace of an Hour or 
thereby, before they difiblve their Meeting,they 
may, if they be attentive and willing to learn, 
have fome meafure of found Light and Under- 
ftanding of the Grounds of True Religion. 

After which Preface ufed, let him fo fhortly 
or plainly as he is able, (peak fomething, firft. 
Of the Creation of the World bv God the Father, 
God the Son, and God the Holy Ghoit, the on- 
ly One True God in Three Perlbns ; and fome- 
thing alfo of the Creation of Adam and Eve our 
firft Parents, according to God's Image, in Wit 
dom, Holinefs and Happinefs ; and fomething 
of the Covenant of Works made between God 
and them, including their Pofterity, the fumm 
of which Covenant is this, Do this and live, but 
if thou fin, thou fhalt die. 

Secondly, Let him fpeak fomewhat of the 
Breach of the Covenant of Works by our firft 
Parents, in whofe Loins we are all made guil- 
ty of Death, according to the Tenor of that Co- 
venant. 

Thirdly ',Let him fpeak'of the Remedy provided 

nitheCounfel of God, before time, butrevea- 

. led timeoufly after the Fall of our firft Parents, 

to 



BOOK I [ 234 ] CHAP IX. 

to wit the Covenant of Redemption, between 
God and God the Son defigned Mediator, Chriit 
Jefas our Lord, the fum whereof is. Gen. 3, 15-.' 
The Seed of the Woman /ball tread Aowyi the head 
of the Serpent, &c. That is to lay, it is agreed 
in the Counfel of God, that the Second Perfon 
iliall be born of a Woman, and differ for the Sins 
of the Ele&,and deitroy Sin and Death,the Works 
of the Devil. 

Fourthly y Let him fpeak of the Covenant of 
Grace and Reconciliation between God and Be^ 
lievers in Chrift, the fum whereof is this, who- 
mever do acknowledge their Sin, and fly toldus 
Chrift for Relief from Sin and Wrath, fhaii not 
perifli, but have eternal Life. 

Fifthly, Let him fpeak of the Two Seals of 
this Covenant, to wit, Baptifm and the Lord's 
Supper, whereby the Covenant, with the Bene- 
fits held out therein to all Believers isfealed. 

Sixthly. Let him fpeak of the neceflity of A- 
rnendmentof Life, and bringing forth of good 
Works,for glorifying God and probation of the 
Sincerity of their Faith. 

Laft of all, Let him fpeak of the Day of Judg- 
ment, when Chrift fhall come in the Clouds,and 
perfed: to all His Eledi and Believers in Him, 
all His Promifes of Righteoufiiefs and eternal 
Life, and call all the Wicked and Unreconciled 
into the foe of Hell. The fame courfe maybe 
taken with ruder Ignorants in private, vvhofe 
Confcience is wakened with Terror. After that 

about 



BOOK I. [ 23* ] CHAR IX. 

about the fpace of an Hour the Paftor hath fpoken 
co all thefe Heads fhortly, and repeated again, 
and inculcat at fome other few Meetings, till the 
People have fome- what underftoodthe Bufinefs; 
then he may draw forth thefe Seven Heads irt 
fome few Queftions, taking anfwer of the 
People in their own Words as they have con- 
ceived the purpofe. 

Thefe Grounds being laid, the Paftor iliall 
find, by God's Bl effing fome defire and appetite 
raifedin the People after more knowledge of 
thefe Grounds,and hope put in them to overtake 
a formed Catechife, and to have it by Heart as 
may be ; To which end, the People muft be en- 
couraged by Promifes on the one Hand, andftir- 
red up by Threatenings on the other Hand,fuch 
as are, Joh. 17. 3. and, z Thejf. 1. 7. 8. and 
other like places. 

Now when the People or any Ignorant before, 
is begun to underftand thefe Seven Grounds, 
they muft be prefled to make life thereof; and 
that 1. They fhould acknowledge their Sins and 
deferved Judgement, according to the Cove- 
nant of Works, which curfeth every Sinner for 
every Sin. 2. That they fhould fly for Refuge 
to Chrift according to the Covenant of Grace. 
And, 3. That every one who is fled to Chrift 
for Grace and Mercy, muft take on His Yoke 
and endeavour new Obedience of His Holy 
Commands, by His Grace and Furniture. 

F$r 



BOOK I. [ z 3 6 ] CHAP. IX. 

For removing of the fe con d Impediment. 

THe fecond Impediment of Self-examina- 
tion, which is an unrenewed Mans 
infection with fome deadly Error in Reli- 
gion, and this is not eafily removed : for, the 
Confidence that is deceived by Error, abfolveth 
the Sinner from the Crime, whereof the Error 
maketh him guilty, how grievous foever it be, 
and therefore fo long as he lyeth in the Error, 
he fecurely contemneth all Accufations and 
Threatenings for his Error and erroneous Pra- 
ctice, till he be convinced of his Error. And 
ufually Four Caufes do concurr to obdure him 
in his Error. The Firft is, the Cunningnefs 
and Malice of the Devil, who when he cannot 
altogether obfcure and fupprefs all the Articles 
of Saving Doctrine, nor banifh the Scripture out 
of the World, he ufeth by his Emiflaries ( of old 
deftinat to this Damnation ) to fpread Do&rines 
of Devils in the vifible Church, whereby fo far 
as he can, he may detain Men in their Sins. 

The Second Caufe is, the Wifdom of the 
flefli, which is Enimity to God, and therefore 
very bent to defend every Luft whereunto Men 
are inclined, and to fight againft the Truth of 
Godcontrair to their Lufts. 

The Third Caufe is, the multitude ofthefe 
who confent with the perverted Cohfcience, and 
avouch the fame Error. 

The Fourth is,the Righteous Judgment ofGod, 
who upon fuch as receive not the Truth in 

love 



BOOK 1. [ *37 ] CHAR IX. 

love, fendeth powerful Delufions, and efficacy 
of Error, that they may believe a Lie, and fo 
be Damned, who have not received the Truth 
in love, but have pleafure in Unrighteoufiiels. 

x. But becaufe the Paftor cannot know any 
Man's Reprobation in particular, and therefore 
muft take the beft courfe he can for every Man's 
Salvation, who is under his Charge, if the erro- 
neous Perfon cannot be content to fall uponChri- 
ftian Conference, in private with the Paftor, it 
feemeth not expedient to fall flat at the firft upon 
the Error wherewith he is infe&ed, but to hold 
upon agreed unto Principles, and from thefe 
Grounds, lay open the Merit of thefe Sins, where- 
of the erroneous Party will grant himfelf no left 
guilty, than other Men will be found to be, and 
labour to convince him, that for thefe common 
Sins, no Ranfom can fatisfy Gods Juftice, fave 
the perfect Obedience which Chrift gave to the 
Father, even to the Death of the Crols,in name 
of all that flee unto Him for the benefit of Re- 
demption. If the erroneous Party can condefcend 
to call himfelf wholly on Chrift's Mercy, offe- 
red in the Gofpel for Pardon of acknowledged 
Sin, then at anpther time the Conference may 
be further followed, and the Danger of the Er- 
ror may be laid out before the Erroneous, and 
he no more urged for the time, but that he 
would confider what hath been told him, and 
that he would by Prayer, for Chrift's Caufe,beg 
Light from God in the Point queftioned : And fo 

g° 



BOOK I. [ 238 ] CHAP. IX; 

go on with him in all Meeknefe and evidence 
of Love to his Soul, as the Lord openeth a Door 
for ufing of all Means that may reclaim the Par- 
ty erroneous. 

3. But if the Error be likely to infed the 
Flock, let the Paftor openly refute the Er- 
ror or Herefy, and that not only by hinting 
at fome Arguments againft it, but of fet purpofe 
once at lead, folidly {hewing how contrair it is 
to the Word of God, and what are the fearful 
Confequences thereof, that it may become in 
the fight of the Judicious, no lefs vile and odious 
than grofs Tranfgreffions againft the Second 
Table of the Law ; which fort of Sins is more 
hated of natural reafonable Men, than Sins a- 
gainft the Firft Table : For Nature's light is iliar- 
per fighted in the mutual Duties of Man to Man, 
than in the Matters of God and Religion, where- 
in a Man hath no light at all in fpecial, fave 
that which is by Revelation of Scripture. The 
true Intent and Meaning whereof, if a Man be 
ignorant of it, or fhall miftake it, theConfcience 
runneth head-long (without the lead fecret check) 
after the Error andDarknets which Men natural- 
ly love more than Truth and Light. 

For removing the Third Impediment, 

THe Third Impediment of Self-examination, 
to wit, Infidelity, diiiembled and covered 
with grofs Hipocrify, whereof the Man himfelf 
isconfcious, and ftudiethco hide and delighted* 



al 



BOOK I. 039 1 C fit A P. IX, 

himfelf in his cheating of others, of all Evils is 
moft hardly cured : Of this fort of Hypocrites are 
they, who think they can give a Reafon of all 
their ways to any Man. And becaufe they refpedr 
the Laws of the Kingdom, wherein they live, 
more than the Scripture, therefore they cover 
over all their Avarice and Cruelty with pra&ice 
of Law, that Beholders, think what they pleafe, 
can fay nothing againft their following of the 
Civil Law : For, fuch Men fear not God, and 
and are not afraid for His Judgement. And al- 
beit they largely commend the Piety of Holy 
Men, before fome Auditors, to whom they con- 
ceive their Speech will be plaufibie, yet under 
hand,and among fuch as themfelves are, they da 
but laugh and (corn all fuch Piety,as puts Men in 
hazard of any worldly Inconvenience ; For in 
thofe Mens Eyes the Simplicity of the Godly 
is Foolifhnefs, and their Faith in God, in their 
eltimation, is Madnefs, efpeciallyif for Defence 
of the truth of Religion they differ Perfecution. 
Thefe Hypocrites the Pfalmift calleth tmvife and 
foolifh Pfal. 14. 1. The fool hath [aid in his Heart y 
there is ??o God ; and verf. 6. Ton have fbamed 
the com/el of the Poor, hecaufe the Lord is his Re- 
fuge. Such Men as thefe, albeit they feign them- 
felvcs to be holy,yet in Heart they are Haters bf 
all true Saints, m whom the Sparks of G?hce 
and folid Religion doth appear, for fo fakhthe 
Lord of them, Pfal. 14.4. They eat up My People 
as they eat Bread, and call not upon the Lord, 

Q^ Thej 



BOOK I. [ 240 J CHAP. IX. 

They have a form of Godlinefs,but in their Deeds 
they deny the Power of it ; for, they believe ne- 
ver a word of what is preached of things fpiritual, 
revealed in die Word of God:No wonder therefore 
that they will not examine themfelves, nor receive 
any Accufation from their own Conferences for 
any Sin of this fort, which concerneth Godlinefs. 

z. The Caufes of fuch Mens hardening of 
their Heart, may be Four; theFirftis, themea- 
fure of worldly Wifdorn, granted to them ando- 
thers like themfelves, above common People, 
with the conceit whereof they are fo puffed up, 
that they care for nothing fave this prefent 
World, they acknowledge no other Holinefs,but 
civil obfervance of humane Laws, as if Scripture 
and all Religious Exercifes were to be referred 
to this only end, that Men living according to 
the Laws and Cufloms received, into the Soci- 
eties they live into, fhould ftudy to make the 
beft they can of this prefent World. And this 
worldly and carnal Wifdom, is called, PjaL 1. 
The Comfel of the Ungodly, becaufe all Ungodly 
Perfbns do think it fliall be more fafe to walk 
in the ways of their Wifdom, then to be hemmed 
in by the Laws of God. 

The Second Caufe of their Obduration, is 
carnal confidence in their worldly Profperity, 
which they hope always to enjoy, and that by 
the Principles of their Wifdom, Pfal. 10. 6. He 
hath [aid in his Heart, I Jhall never he moved, I 
Jh hill never be in.adverfity* 

The 



BOOK I. [ 141 } CHAP. IX. 

The Third Caufe, is, The (tumbling Block 
of the Crofs and Affliction, wherewith they per- 
ceive the Godly, ufually to be exercifed. Upon 
which offence they (tumble the more readily, 
becaufe they judge, that the greateft part of the 
Affliction of the Godly proceeds from their own 
Imprudency,and do afcribe their own Profperiry 
to their own Wifdom, wherein they are fo lifted 
ap in their own eftimation, that they defpife all 
Men in comparifon of themfelves, PfaL 10. 5^ 
As for his enemies, he puffeth at them. 

The Fourth Caufe is, the not obferving, the 
flighting and defpifing of God's Judgements, 
concerning which they do not give credit unto 
God when He fpeaketh, and therefore do not 
make ufe of the Operation of His Hands Pfal.io. 
5. Thy Judgements are far above out of his fight. 

3. Albeit there be very fmall hope of the Con- 
Verfioii of any fuch, becaufe they cannot abide 
free dealing from any Man in private, for to give 
them any Admonition, is to them a Reproach, 
and they cannot endure it, and nothing can cue 
them at the Heart more, then that any Man 
lhould fufped: them ofHypocrify and Atheifm ; 
yet becaufe no Paftor may defpair of any Man, 
or judge him a Reprobate ,fo long as the long {Of- 
fering patience of God invitcth him to Repen- 
tance, therefore the Paftor mult deal with fucli 
Men in the general in his Sorrnons, that from the 
Scripture he may convince them of their Igno- 
rance of God's ways and of their Atheilm. 



BOOK I. [ 241 } CHAP. IX 

To which end and purpofe, firft, he muft 
point fuch Men forth in theit colours as the 
Scripture doth defcribe them, yet To as he hold 
himfelf in general in dealing with all fuch Per- 
fons without particular defcription of any. Man 
by particular circumftances,whereby fuch a Man 
one or moe of the Auditors may appear to be 
picked out and fliot at. 

Secondly, He muft denounce gravely and with 
Companion, the heavy Judgements of God a- 
gainft them. 

thirdly He muft pull the Mask of civil Ho- 
nefty off their Face,and let them know the Righ- 
teoufnefs of Chrift imputed to humble Sinners 
flying to Him, to be the only Garment to hide 
Nakednefs, if poffibly the Hearer may conceive 
hope,he may be forgiven his former Hypocrify, 
and be allured unto Chrift. 

Fourthly, Let him often againft fuch Perfons 
make ufe of the Apoftle's Admonition, i Cor. 
3. 18. 19. Let no Man deceive himfelf, if any Man 
among you feemeth to he wife in this World, let him 
hecome a Fool that he may he wife, for the Wifdom 
of this World is foolijhnefs with God for, it is written, 
He taketh the Wife in their own craftinefs. 

Fifthly, Let the Paftor obferve the occafion, 
if at any time it {hall pleafe God to lay Calami- 
ty on fuch a Man ; and then let him wifely la- 
bour with all Meekjiefs and Tendernefs to a- 
v/aken up his Confcience, to take notice of the 
Sparks of Wrath, left he perifh in God's DiC 

plea- 



BOOK I. [ M3 1 CHAP. IX. 

pleafure, if he do not humble himfclf before 
God, and draw in to Chrift; upon which condi- 
tion let him make the faircft offers of Grace and 
Mercy that the Gofpel can yeild to him, if poC 
fibly the Lord may give him Repentance and 
Faith in our Lord Jefus Chrift. 

For removing the Fourth Impediment. 

THe Fourth Impediment of Sel£ : examination, 
is the Stupidity and Senfelefncls of the 
Confcience, pad feeling, as it were burnt, with 
a hot Iron. This Difeafe may be feen in befbt- 
ted Epicures, given to their Brutifi-i Lints, who 
are fo carried on after their furious beaftly Affe- 
<Sicn£,thatthey have ho more power overtliqm- 
sthen Beafts, and fuch Monfters of Men by 
frequent finning have extinguilhed all fenfe of Sin; 
for, albeit by Nature there is fome remainder of 
Light in fallen Man^. whereby the Work of the 
Law maybe found written in their Heart, as far 
as to make them inexcuiabie, when they do con- 
trary to it ; and albeit there is left in the Natural 
Man fome natural power of the Confcience to 
vex him thatrebelleth againftit, to reftrain him 
thereafter from doing the like, yet fome have 
£o fold thcmlelves to the Lull and Wantonnefs of 
their fieih, that they will not hear any Admo- 
nition or Check of the Confcience, which might 
make any remorfe, but do run madly after all 
fort of Unclcannefs, corrupting- them (elves as 
brute Beails. 

0,3 



BOOK I. f 244 ] CHAP. IX 

The like Difpofition may be feen in openly 
prophane Perfons, who not only in their Deeds 
have denied the power of Godlinefs, but alfo re- 
nounce the profeffion of all Form of Godlineft, 
and fhamelefly foam forth their Ungodlinefs, as 
an open rotten Grave cafts forth the ftink there- 
of. Of this fort are thefewho when they do Blas- 
pheme will not be reptoved.F/rt/. tz.^Our Tongues 
are our own.whoishord over ml and who as Dogs 
do trample under- foot all Holy Things,and rent 
them who reprove them, and who infult over 
the Godly in their affliction, faying with David's 
Enemies, where is there God* and who openly 
fcorn all Religion like thefe defperat Scoffers, 
a Pet. 3.4. faying where is the Promife of his cow- 
ing. Such as thefe are pradically Atheiits, and 
in feme fort alfo in their Minds: For, albeitthey 
have feme natural Principles of a God-head im- 
printed on them, yet they {mother all knowledge 
of God, and belch out their own ftiame againft 
God and Religion,and all the Godly. 

2. Of Men's falling untofuch a fearful Abo- 
rnination; Four Caufes may be rendered. The 
Firft is,the Man's violence ufed againft his Con- 
fcience frequently,in committing of grievous Sins 
wittingly, and from the flighting of the Admo- 
nitions of the Confcience, arifing up to the con- 
temptof all Accufations, which the Confcience 
can lay in againft him, and at laft boldly rifmg . 
up againft the Confcience, as it wpre, to be a- 
vengedofit, for rebuking him, by committing 

thefe 



BOOK I. [ 245- ] CHAP. IX. 

thefe fame Sins moft frequently, for which he 
hath been oftneft reproved by his Conicience. 
The Second Caufe may we reckon the Devil, 
who thinketh it too Uttle to allurcMen to Sin, and 
harden their Heart in it,and fpoil them of all fenfe 
of their Sin,except he alfo draw them to renounce 
God and bark againft Him, and become like the 
Devil himfelf, fo far as he can drive them. The 
Third Caufe,wc make the Holy Juftice of God, 
giving over the Man who cootemneth the Light 
and Checks of his Confcience, unto a reprobate 
(cafe, that being deprived of common ufe of 
Reafon and Judgement, he may run mad in his 
Sin like the Devil : For. if God did puniili the 
Heathen (b for this fort of finning, Rom. 1. 28. 
what wonder He pumlh feven times more them, 
who thus rebell againft the Light of Holy Scrip- 
ture ? yea, thefe that do not come to this hight 
are punifhed, by giving them over to ftrong De- 
lufions, 2 Thejf* 2. n. The Laft, but finlefi, 
Caufe, is die deep Wifdom of God, who fuf- 
fering fuch Wretches to fill up fuch a mealure of 
Sin,doth make manifeft to all Beholders,the power 
and poyfon of in-born Sin in Man, and draweth 
forth to light the natural Enimity of Man againft 
God, the Seeds whereof is in all Men,and could 
hardly be believed to be incident to Men, ex- 
cept it were by Experience feen and found in 
fome Men. 

For Remedy of this Evil, it is too little that 
fbch aMonfter-fliould be driven from all Church 

Q^4 So- 



BOOK I. [ 246 1 CHAR IX. 

Society, and given over to Satan; it is the part 
of the Magiftrate to bind Beafts and mad Devils, 
and puniili them as it becometh the Bearer of 
the Sword to do, for avenging of Evil-doers. 
Bur, if the Magiftrate do not his part, yet, let 
the Faftor do what in him lyeth ; for, albeit the 
Scripture giveth fmall hope of the recovery of 
fuch vile Monfters, becaufe of the Stupidity of 
their Confcience, that cannot be wrought uport 
by Man, yet feing fuch eviis have been found, 
even in forne Eled,as Manajfeh and fome of the 
Corinthians before their Converfion, iCor. 6. 9, 
to, 11. and becaufe Experience hath often found, 
that fome of this fort going to publick Execu- 
tion by the Magiftrate, have been Converted 
and Saved by Faith in Jefus Chrift ; a Paftor 
fhould not altogether defpair of fuch vile Men, 
but eftay what may be done by Conference, e- 
fpecially when God fends Calamity on them, or 
the Magiftrate executes Juftice on them for any 
Crime, if poffiblyfuch Mifcreants, being convin- 
ced of their perverfenefs, may Repent and fly to 
Chrift, the Redeemer of ftch as fly unto Him. 

For removing the Fifth Impediment. 
1. r T 1 He Fifth Impediment of Self-examination, 
X is a faife Fear of no fmall danger to their 
Souls, if they fhould rip up their Confcience 
for by-gones ; for; feing they feel themfelves 
quiet, they think it were unprofitable, and dan- 
gerous to trouble their own peace* Such per- 

ions 



BOOK I. [ 247 ] CHAP. IX. 

fons will tell you, that their Faith is truely fet 
on God, and that rhey never had any doubt or 
fufpicion of God's Love to diem,- and therefore 
dare not trouble themfelves with Self-examina- 
tion: . Firft, becaufe all Sermons bid them 
firmly truft in God. Secondly, becaufe they 
know, if they fliould trouble themielvcs with 
Self-examination, they might foon weaken their 
Faith, as they conceive. Thirdly, becaufe they 
know the fubtiiity of Satan as they fay, to whom 
if a Door were opened by learch of their old 
ways, they fear hefhould over-charge them with 
Accufations, and drive them to Defperation as 
(fay they ) it hath befallen fundry, who after 
wakening their Confciences,never relied till they 
put hand in themfelves, not being able to bear 
the Torment of their ConCciencc, 

There are ether forne, who,nill they wilt they, 
are drawn before the Tribunal of God's Judg- 
ment, and their Confcience begimieth tollir a- 
gainft them, whibbfc loon as they do perceive, 
incontinent they interrupt the Procefs. Such a one 
was the Heathen Governor Felix, Act. 24. 25-. 
who after hearing, for a little/ Paul's difcourfc 
of Righteopfnefs, Temperance, and judgement 
to come, did tremble, and therefore dcilred/W 
to forbear for the time. Of this fort alfo are thev 
, who do with-draw themfeives from Church-meet- 
ings, and hearing of publick Sermons, left they 
fliould be troubled with the ferious Speeches of 
a faithful Paftor. Some are alio of this fort, 

who 



BOOK I, [148] CHAR IX. 

who take the courfe that King Saul did take,and 
call for a Minftrel, or for merry company to 
fupprefs the voice of their barking Confeience, 
or do by fome fuch way divert their Confeience 
from entering in Judgement with them. 

2,. The Caufcs of this Evil in the un-regenerat 
Man, may be found thefe Four, (befides others 
more particular) Firft, Ignorance of the Duty of 
Self-examination prefcribed of God, Fj. 4. 4, or 
a voluntar mif-kenning that fuch a Duty is requi- 
red of all. The Second Caufe is a fixed purpofe 
to go on (ecurely in their old Ways. The Third 
Caufe is the fenfe of the fweetnefs they ima- 
gine they do find and have found of a long time 
in the carnal reft and fleep of their Confeience. 
The FourthCaufeis a Perfwafion,that they could 
tiot rid themfelvcs out of the grips of their Con- 
feience, nor endure the blind blows,which Con- 
feience, fet down on the Tribunal, fliould inflicSt 
on them; which Sorrow and Vexation they con- 
ceive they cannot otherways efhew,but by throw- 
ing down their Confeience from thebench> that 
he enter in no procefs againft them. 

3. When the Paftor hath to do with fuch a 
Man, his firft care muft be, that this blind fear 
may be drawn forth to the light, by (hewing 
him,that this his flying from the light and hid- 
ing himfelf in darknefs,is to no purpofe, and that 
there is no place for him to fly unto and hide 
himfelf from God. Secondly, let him prefs 

the 



BOOK I. [ 249 ] CHAP. IX. 

the Decree of God, that all Men muft once die, 
and then come to Judgement: wherein he cannot 
mifs perpetual Condemnation and endlels tor- 
ment from an angry Judge; except he now judge 
and condemn himfelf, and fly to Chrift the Me- 
diator while it is to day, while Chrift is exercL- 
fing his Mediatory-office, and is inviting all Sin- 
ners to Repent, and calling all weary and heavy 
loaden to come unto Him. Thirdly, let the Pa- 
llor ihew to thefe fearful Perfbns, that this their 
Fear is groundiefs ; For, if they mind to draw 
in to God they need not fear to confefs all their 
Sins and fly to His Grace, which iftheydonot, 
the Sleep which they love to ly into is deadly, 
becaufe God hath faid, There is no peace to the 
Wicked, Ifa. 48. 21. Fourthly, let himprefs the 
Precepts for Self-examination and judging our 
fclves, Pf. 4. 4. and trying whether we be in 
the Faith or not, 2 Ccr. 13, 5*. except they 
would chufe to be judged of God without Mer- 
cy. But feing here we fpeak to Pallors, or to 
fijfch as aim at the holy Minillry, we need not 
infill, but with the Apoftlc, 2 Tim. 2. 17, pray 
the Lord to give His Servants Wifdom and Pru- 
dence in all things. 

For removing the Sixth Impediment. 

THe Sixth Impediment is,a lazy and fluggifh 
putting off of the Duty of Self-examination 
from time, to time. And many are guilty of this 

Siiu 



B OOK I f z S o ] CHAR IX 

finful Folly, who will grant, that if is a Duty 
lying on them to fet their Confcience on work 
for trial of their ftate or condition, but like ill 
Debtors, who, promifing to pay as oft as they 
meet with their Creditors, do notwithftanding 
put off time, and delay the work from day to 
day: Such Mens Difpofition in fpiritual Things 
is well refembled in the Defcription of the Slug- 
gard, Pro v. 6. 10. How long wilt thou Jleep, 
Sluggard* when wilt thou arife out of thy nee p> 
let a little Jleep, a little Jlumber, a little fold- - 
ing of the hands to Jleep. So fliall thy poverty 
tome as one that travaileth, and thy want as an ar- 
med Man. And Prov. 26. 14, 15% 16. As the door 
turneth upon his hinges \ Jo doth the flothful Man upon 
his bed. The Slothful hideth his hand in his bofom, 
■ it grieveth him to bring in again to his mouth. The 
Sluggard is wifer in his own conceit , than f even Men 
that can render a reafon. Such are our lazy De- 
layers of Examination, of whom we fpeak,they 
cannot endure to be at pains to fearch their Ways, 
or commune with their Heart: But, fo long as 
God iliffereth their Confcience to ileep, fo long 
they put off* the. Duty of fearching themlelves, 
and ly ftiil in Security, efteeming it a Torture to 
have their fluggifli Sleeping any way interrupted 
by any perfon. 

z. Of this evil Difeafe, Fiye Caufes may be 
given: TheFirft is, The abhorring of all Pains 
in fpiritual Duties,how profitable foe ver Diligence 
might prove. The Second Cauie is, thetcwirch- 

V ing 



BOOK T. [ iji ] CH AP. IX. 

kig fenl'c of fweetncfs they conceive they feel in 
this their idle Carriage, The Third is, The de- 
ceit, of the Sluggard's Heart, ftill promifing to 
follow his purpofc of Amendment of Life from 
day to day, and yet, albeit deceived athoufand 
times.hc doth give credit to his own falfeHcarr, 
The fourth* is, A falfe Opinion which the .Slug- 
gard entertains of his own fpiritual Abiiiius,a$ 
if he were fare be could repent at any time; and 
that if aaySicknefs or appearance of Death ihould 
befathim.he would chen undoubtedly make his 
Reckoning with God, and crave Pardon, and fo 
be Saved;and in fuch pleafant Dreams be count- 
eth himfelf a much wifer Man, then many who 
do put themfelves to daily toiling and vexation 
by keeping their Confpiencc on the Rack-dock, 
when with Ids M*fery they might follow his 
fluggiili way of it. The Fiftl^buc firi left, Caufe 
is,cheLords lengthening ofProfperiry reche&iug« 
gard, which although it ilioukl lead him co Re- 
pentance, yet he becomes hereby more and mors 
drunken. & lulleth himfelf o^er in a deeper Sleep. 
3. This Sickrrefe is not eafilyCure,! cxgcjm: t\\z 
Lord take up a Rod and roufe the Slugard out 
of his Steep,But as for- the Paftor he (hali 

do well in private, if she Sluggard con reft his 
Fauk, and howfoever, tofet r?n edge on thtfLaw 
in publick, chat allfuch Sluggards may appre- 
hend the real Danger their.Soui is into % bydelay- 
ingthe:rRep,*nrancc,becaufetheendurancc orchis 
brittle and frail life is raoit uncertain; for the 

fool 



BOOK I [iji] CHAP: IX, f 

fool knoweth not whether the very next follow- 
ing night after Admonition is given to him, his 
.Soul fhall be taken from him. Secondly, lift 
rauft know, that the longer he delay, the num- 
ber of his Sirvtand the hardnefs- of his Hbart f a ft i 
the wr^rh ofGod againft him, do daily grow 
to d higher meafhre. Let the Sluggard then bs 
convinced of his Madneis, if ho ihall delay for 
ail hour by acknowledgement ofhrs Sin and fly-v 
ing to Chrift to vomit up the deadly p6i(bn oi 
his fweeteft Sins, and to have the hot burning 
Wrath o? Grd againft him cxtinguiitiediThird- 
ly.let the Deceits wherewith he baguiiech hinv 
felfbelatd open and refuted, and an offer be 
made unro bim f whethcrhe will chafe that Hi$ 
Confcience be tormented forever in the Society 
of uncle&ri Devils, after a Abort while fleep in 
Sin in this Lifc t rather then while he hath time 
while Chrift offircth Himfelf Mediator in Hi$ 
Gofpel,while4i3 may have the fwect fellowfhip 
of tha Saints, he will chufeto put his Confcience 
to it and acknowledge his Sins, and fly ro Chrift 
that he may havo peace with God, and fo be. 
Saved for ever. 

Far.rem*vhg the Stptnth Impediment*. 

THcScventh Impediment ofSelf-examination 
is the too earned: care for earthly things, & 
theMans involving himfclf in the Affairs of this 
Life: For there are many who do not refufe th$ 
Duty of trying thfir owa Spiritual flats and con- 
dition 



BOOK i [ in ] CHAP. IX. 

dition, who notwithftanding of this conviction 
of their Duty, do fpend all their time in the 
Bufincfles of this World, wherein they are fo 
involved and carried head-long, that they pafe 
perfun<5rorioufly all Exercifes of Religion,and do 
neither wait for the Direction of God's Word,or 
of their own Confcience, about what they have 
to do, nor call themfclves to account for what is 
paft, done or not done. . Of this fort are thefe, 
of whom Chrift doth fpeak, Luke 14. 18. who 
being invited to a free Supper, anfwered, fome 
of 'them, ■ / have bought Land, another, I have 
married aWife, another, I have fought a yoke of 
Oxen, &c. and fo fought to be excufed, for their 
not coming to the Marriage, all pretending their 
earthly Affairs, as ajuft reafon of their flipping 
of the invitation given them. Of this fort of 
Men fpeaketh Chrift, Matth. 13. n. He that 
received Seed among the Thornes, is he that hear- 
eth the Word, and the cares of this World, and 
the deceit fulnejs of Riches chock the Word, and he he- 
eometh unfruitful- This fort of Men are complain- 
ed of, Jer. 8. 6 J hearkened and heard, but they 
fpake not aright, no Man repented him of his wicked 
nefs, faying, what have I done ? Every one turned 
to his courfe, as a horfe rujhethinto the Battel. 

z. Of this Evil,FourCaufes among others may 
be given:Firft,inordmat Concupifence of earthly 
Things, which eateth up all the time and travel, 
which the love of Tilings fpiritual doth call for, 
and, as it were, fpurreth the Man to the immo- 

de- 



BOOK I. [ %S4 1 CHAP. IXJ 

derat purfuing of things temporal. The Second 
Caufe is, The beguiling of the Confcience un-i 
der the pretence of feeking what is lawful and 
neceflary for a Man's well-being in this Life, asr 
if a Man's fpending of His Care and Pains, and 
and time in earthly buftnefs, in it feif lawful, 
were fuiBcient excufe for neglecfhng Things fpi- 
ritual and heavenly ; or, as if it were not re- 
quired of all Men that hear the Word of God 
pointing out the way of MensSa!vation,to prefer 
that one thing neceflary before all Commodities 
of this Earth ; For, what can it avail a Man to 
gain the whole Earth, if he lofe his own Soul> The 
Third Caufe is, the Deceitfulnefs of Riches, 
which every Man naturally is enclined to purfue 
too eagerly, and which many pragmjatick bufie 
Men do attaimFor God ufeth to recompence every 
Man's Diligence in a lawful Occupation with a 
fort of external Reward of the fame kind with 
his work : This Succefs and Rewarding of Men's 
Induflry and Pains, by increaiing bufie Men's 
Riches, earthly-minded Men, do interpret to be 
thefpecial Bleffingof God, and an Approbation 
of their immoderat purfuing after things earthly, 
wherein they are ijiuch mittaken ; for God ne- 
ver ordained any Man's civil Calling to be a 
hinderance of the fpiritual Welfare of his Soul, 
and if any Man^iegied: his Soul and purfue 
worldly Riches, iflfe obtain them, what can be j 
faid? but verily he hath his Reward, and cannot 
look after the fruit of Pains taking in fpiritual 

Mat* 



BOOK I. [ ztf ] CHAP. IX. 

Matters which he neglected. The Fourth Caufc 
is, a light eftimation of the Word of God, and 
of Matters concerning Salvation which, by Rea- 
fon they fall not under fenfe and prefent pofleili- 
on, but arc offered to us in Promifes, and are 
not beftowed for the prefent, therefore many are 
left careful for things promifed after this Life, 
and do follow the more eagerly after fuch 
things whereof they can take hold in this Life. 
3. The way to cure this Malady, fo far as per- 
taineth toaPaftor, is, that both in pubiick Ser- 
mons and private Conferences, he give unto, 
tilings lawful, and to the following of a Man's 
civil Calling, the own room and time, and wife- 
ly let Men know the fubordination of all civil. 
Affairs unto the welfare of their Souls, and fo to 
lay open the peril of Mens Souls when they 
are following too too eagerly their civil Vo- 
cation, as m the mean time lie do not condemn 
Mens diligence in their Callings,butthathe give 
Directions for fuch a wife Moderation of every ^ 
Man's care about things of this World, that 
the precious Excellency of the Soul, and ihz in- 
finite worth of eternal Lifebcfirfr,and above all 
earthly Things provided for,aad that in the iif-, 
ing or conquelhing of Riches, no prejudice do 
come to his own Salvation, which is not pofii-. 
b!e a Man ihall do, if he do not daily examine. 
his own Conlcience carefully, and keep \t in a 
tender Difpofition, reforting to Chrift upon all 
occasions for pardon of daily Sin, and keeping 

it Him., 



BOOK I. [ 156 ] CHAP. X. 

Him, that if Riches increafe, he may not fethis 
Heart thereon, but may be forth-coming to the 
Duties of Charity towards others as his power 
fhall be, and opportunities fhall be offered. 

CHAP. X. 

Concerning them that are like to Defpair. 

WE have fpoken of the Firft fort of them 
who do hinder their own Regenerati- 
on by abhoring, declining, delaying 
and fhifting off of the Examination of their Con- 
fciences. The Second fort or rank of thofe 
wko hinder their own Converfion, is of fuch as 
after the wakening of their own Confidences, 
whether voluntary or by compulfion, do Defpair 
of all Remedy offered unto them in the Gofpel 
of Grace in Chrift, and renouncing the Counfel 
of God, do follow the Counfel of Satan, and 
their own Heart. 

2. We diflinguifli a voluntary Examination 
of the Confcience from a compelled and enfor- 
ced Examination thereof, as was hinted at in the 
former Section : For, it is one thing to fay of a 
Man, he hath voluntairly Examined himfelf, 
and found out his Ditty, and deferved Judgment 
and to fay of him, he is forced to Examine 
him(clf,and in himfelf,to receive Sentence accord- 
ing as his ways have been:For,there are many who 
Will not judge themfelves, yet after are forced: 

un- 



BOOK I. [ iff ] CHAP. X; 

unto it againft their will : Thefe arc faid to 
judge themfclvcs voluntairly, who, by a free 
A6t of their Will, do enter themfclves to be 
judged of their own Confcience, and do goa- 
bout the work either flightly andperfundtonoufc 
ly, or ftri&ly and exactly according to their 
knowledge of the Rule : But a compelled Exa- 
mination is evermore exa&and ftrid:,and joined 
with theCaftifement of the Sinner for neglecting, 
orfKghting,or delaying of Examination, PfaL 5*0. 
a 1. This Diftindtion isholden forth to us by the 
Apoftle, 1 Cor. 11. 31, yi. If we would judge our 
fehes, we fhould not he judged : But when we are- 
judged, we are chaflenedof the Lord, that we fhould 
not he condemned with the World. Both thefe forts 
of Examination have a Bleffing following upon 
them, when Chrift is fled unto after Examina- 
tion : But if Chrift be not fled unto, then Defpe- 
ration may follow upon both (light and ferious 
Examination, both upon voluntary and enfor- 
ced Examination. 

3. We do not take Defperation here for eve- 
ry Diffidence of God's performing of Promifes,' 
or of God's making good of His Gracious Offers, 
but for Diffidence to obtain Reconciliation with' 
God, or to find Mercy through Chrift the Me- 
diator. Neither do we call by the Name of 
Defperation every Diffidence to obtain Mercy and 
Reconciliation, caft in Man's Mind by the tern-, 
pter Satan,and yeilded unto for a time under the 
fenfe of God's Wrath: For at fome fits ; tlie piffi-> 

R % denc§ 



BOOK I. [ 258 } CHAP. X. 

dcnce will be found in renewed Saints, as In Jo- 
nah Chap. 2. 4. Heman the Ezarite, PfaL 88. 
16. DaviJ Pfal 11 6, 11. who feerried to them- 
felves for the time to be caft ofF,but did fwim out 
of this Deep by Faith. Neither do we take De- 
J per at ion for every fliort or long ©cclipfe of Hope 
wherein a diftrefled Soul feems to its felf to de- 
fpair, yea, aad may poliibly utter and profefs 
they do defpair, and in the mean time will not 
renounce the ufe of the Means, whereby they 
do get or recover Hope: Such was the 
Condition ot Heman the Etraite, PfaL 88. 14. 
1 5% 1 6. Lord why caft s Thou off my foul > why hi deft 
Thou Thy Face from mel I am afflicted and ready to 
die from my Touth up, while 1 juffer Thy Terrors I 
am diflraUed. He thought he was caft off, yet 
for all thathe went on daily praying for thefenie 
of Mercy and found it, and was directed by God 
to acquaint the Church unto all Generations with 
his long anil fad Exercife. But we take Defpe- 
rathn for a prevalent Impreflion made by Satan u- 
pon the Spirit of a Man,that God will not fhew 
him Mercy, and fo fixed in him, as the Man re- 
folveth not to deal with God any more for 
Mercy. 

4. Of this properly called Defperation, there 
are two forts, one which we may call Carelefs 
and Secure Defperation, another which we may 
call Anxious and tormenting Defperation. Cains 
Defperation in his laft Refoliition, was of the 
firft fort, and Judas Defperation was of the other 

fort. 



BOOK I. [ i S 9 ] CHAR X. 

I ore We call that a Carclefs Secure Defperation* 
tfhcii-a Sinner, being convinced of his grofs and 
many Sins,eirher belie vcz h notGod's Word, or con- 
ceiverh God implacable and irrcconciliab!e, and 
to have dcilinate him to dcilru&ion according to 
die Sentence of the Law. pronounced againfl 
jfuch Sinners as he knoweth hirofelf to be, and fo 
doth harden and oboure himielf againft all 
Threatenings, and goeth on in Iris own wa}s, 
efolved to takeEale andPlealiire in the World, 
To long as he livetln and not to make iumfelf 
miferabie before the time : Such was ;fpe- 

ration ofcarnal Ijt -aeliies, /fa. it. 13. who, hear- 
ing the Threatenings of the Prophets concerning 
the jufl Judgments of God to come upon them, 
when they fliould have humbled therr*felvcs iti 
Prayer and Falling, in Sackcloth andAfhes.and 
fought Mercy from God, they did let themfei ves 
to make good cheer, and to feaft one another, 
faying, Let us eat and drink, for tomcrrw we {hall 
die.- .Of this fort were al(b thefe in EzeheVs 
time, Chap. 33. ig. Thus ye /peak, faying, If 
our -fins and tranfgrej/fons he upon us, avd we pin a- 
way in them, hew fhaUr we then lire ? They do not 
deny that they are "leadened with Iniquity, they 
doubt nothing of the Righteoufnefs of the 
threatned Judgment; but, comparing thejutlice 
of God's Judgment with their Sins, andjaving a- 
fide all thought of a Remedy from Gods Mercy 
they flatly Defpair, as if there had been no Re- 
medy provided in the Word of God for them, 

R 3 cr 



BOOK I [ 260 { CHAP. X. 

or as if the Threatenings had been pronounced 
as Sentences pronounced abfolutly without ex- 
ception of their Repentance, 

5-. The Caufes of this Evil, are fpecially 
thefe Three : The Frift, is grofs Misbelief of 
God's Word, contemning all Threatenings, as 
but the words of an angry Prophet ftirred up to 
vent his Paffions againft People. The Second, 
is the perverfenefs of corrupt Nature, (b har- 
dened with the cuflom of finning, that the Con- 
fcience not being terrified with God's Threaten- 
ings, is nothing moved with inward Accufations, 
which they know to be juft : whereupon they re- 
folve neither to feek for Mercy, nor care for Re- 
conciliation with God, nor to flied with their 
carnal Pleafures and finful Lufts, but will go on 
in their own ways, and take their hazard. The 
Third.is a falfe perfwafion, that it is impoflible 
they can be reconciled to God,arifing partly,from 
the vilenefs of their former Life and groflhefs of 
their Sins, partly, from the Ignorance of the 
Gofpel, and of the Rich Grace of God offered 
to the word of Sinners, who fhall forfake their 
former ways and fly unto Chrift ; and partly, a- 
rifing from the Ignorance of the Scope and End 
of the Law, which is appointed to be a Peda- 
gogue to lead and draw Men unto Chrift, after 
their conviction of Sin by the Law, how grie- 
vous foever their Sins, have been. 

6. The Remedy of this fort of Secure Defpe- 

ration is very li£rd,and in fomeincurable^namely 

: . thefe 



I500K I. [ z6i ] CHAP. X. 

hcfc,who do not believe the Thrcatenings and 
3 'o on (till in Unbelief; or, do believe the 
Threatening, but are fo weded to their Lufts, 
that they will not change their courfc and man- 
ner of finful carriage, come what may come, but 
refolve to cat and drink and be merry while they 
live: Concerning whom the Prophet I fat as faith, 
Chap. 22. 14. It was revealed in mine Ears by 
the Lord of Hofls, furely this Iniquity fhall not be 
purged from you, till ye die, faith the Lord of Ho/is. 
The beft ground of Hope is of fuch,who through 
Ignorance of the End of the Law and offer of the 
Gofpel, have taken up afalfe Perfwafion of their 
defperat Eftate. Now becaufe the Pallor hath 
noWarrand to read the Decree of any Man's 
Reprobation in particular, his care mud be in 
private and publick, to waken the Epicures, and 
all befotted in their Sins, out of their deadly 
fleep;laying before them,from Scripture,the unex- 
tinguiihabieFire of Hell, and the Torments of 
the Damned, to be endured forever,by the Im- 
penitent and Unbelieving Sinner, on the one 
hand;and on the other hand, making Offer of Rc- 
mifiion of Sin arid Reconciliation to all whofhalt 
forfake their former vitious ways,and be content 
to embrace Chtift Jefus for their Rightcoufnefs, 
Sandtiflcation and Salvation. And to this end, 
let him certifle all his Hearers,that Threatenings 
are not intended of God to drive away any Man 
to Defperation, but to lead all to Repentance, 
that they may be Saved, and that the 

R 4 ex- 



■BOOK I. [z6z] CHAP. X. 

exception of Repentance and Faith in the Re* 
deemcr, is to be underftood in every Threaten- 
ing,forfo the Lord hath made a plain Commen- 
tary upon all His Threatenings and ail His Pro- 
mifes al(b, that He be not for ever miftaken, 
which is this infamm, that by His Threatenings 
He doth not intend to make any Man toDefpair, 
but to Pvepent and turn to God; and that by His 
Promifes He doth not intend, that any Man 
ihould prefume to Sin, or turn His Grace into 
Wantonhefs, a$ is at large fetdown, Ezek. 33. 
from Ver. 10. to Ver. zi. atidC/^/>. 18. fromK 
21. to the end. 

Of Anxious Tormenting Defperation. 

ANxious and Tormenting Defperation is when 
a Sinner, from the apprehenfion of hisguil- 
tinelsof irremiUible Sins, and fear of inextricable; 
woful Mifery , wherein he hath thrown himfelf, 
dothcaft awayali hope of Relief to be had, and 
fo is tortured and vexed within himfelf without 
reft. In this fort of Defperation, the miferable 
Man having wrcftled a while, doth Either turn 
himfelf to a carnal temporary Confolation in this 
World, and maketh choice of a carelefs and fe- 
cure Defperation, .that he may be rid of prefent 
Anxiety ,orelfe herefolvethto difpatch himfelf by 
fome fort of Self murder counting it more eafie to 
die by his own hand, then to live and endure 
the tormenting Vexation of his own Mind. 

^ As 



BOOK I. [ *6 3 ] CHAP.X. 

z. As for that fort of anxious Defperation, 
which after the fore by ting of thcConfcienceonce 
wakned, falleth back again in carnal Security, 
it is moft perilous and givcth very fmall hope to 
the Pallor, or Faithful Friends who perceive the 
Man after fearful wakening of His Confciencc, 
to have fallen back to his old ways, and turned 
carelefs of the Means of Salvation : For, fuch a 
Man, is of fet purpofe and refolvedly wicked. 
Such was the Defperation of Cain, who, after a 
whiles lamentation and houlirrg for the Curfa 
pronounced upon him by God, plucked up his 
Heart, departed from the Society of the Church, 
where God givcth His prc'fencc, and goethinto 
the Land of AW, or voluntary banilhment, 
and giveth himfelf over to building of Ci- 
ties, Gen. .4. 13. 14. Such alio was the. 
Defperation ofEfau, who, when hc.faw he was 
excluded from the fpintual -Bleffing of tim Birth- 
right,, .laments a little, and then turned hftnfclf 
toward the Earthly Blefling, and fought all his 
Confolation . in it, Gen. 27. 34, 38. yet fuch 
Men mud be dealt with, if God poffibly may 
blefs the Means.* 

3. As for v the other fort of Anxious Defpera- 
tion, except it be cured. by God's Blefling of the 
Means ufed, it draweth on voluntary and dc- 
liberat Sclf-murther. We put a difference be- 
tween Brute Selfmurther, and Voluntary or De- 
liber at Self-murther : For this beaftly Brute Self- 
_murther, may befal mad Perfons, furious melan- 

cho- 



BOOK I. [ 264 ] CHAP. X. 

cholious, diftra&ed Perfons, orfuch as are befet 
by fome evil Spirit, in whom the Faculty of 
Reafoning is fo impeded, that without the ufe 
of Rcafon or common Senfe, they are carried to 
deflroy themfelves fome way. Such Perfons 
ean hardly be called Voluntary and deliberat Self- 
murtherers, becaufe they are neither able to ob- 
ferve and difcern their own condition nor their 
danger, wherein they are, nor any circumftances 
which might hinder them from the Mifchicf; 
and therefore it cannot properly in this Cafe be 
called Defperation,becaufe the miferable Perfon 
is not fo much capable of Reafon as to confider 
the Grounds and Motives of Hope or Defpair. 

But voluntary Self-murther, proceedeth from 
properly called Defper at ion, becaufe the wretch, 
after deliberation,how to efoape from Mifery ly- 
ing on and coming on,when all Reafon of Hope 
feemcth to fail him, he cafts away any further 
inquifition after the Remedy ; and out of ap- 
prehenfion, that he can be in no worfo cafe after 
his Death then he prefently feeleth;& that he can 
no other way be rid of his -prefent Torment than 
by Death wittingly willingly putteth hand in him- 
felf. In this voluntary Self-murther fometime the 
fenfe of Wrath for Sin committed doth predomine 
^'m Judas theTraitor his Defperation & Self-mur- 
ther;fometime the apprehenfion of more worldly 
Mi(ery,more bitter than Deach,doth predomine,as 
in King Saul, who choofed rather to fall on his 
own Sword, then fall alive into the Hands of the 



fcOOK I. [ %H ] GHAP. X. 

Vhiliftines, x Sam. 31. 4. and in Achitophefs 
hanging himfelf, when he forefaw whatMifery 
fliould come upon himfelf, when his Counfel 
was pot embraced by Abfalom, z. Sam. 17. 23. 

4. Tofpcak ofSclf-murther iiTgenercl,requir- 
eth a Treatife larger than our purpofe doth per- 
mit; it fufficeth us to fpeak a little to it, as the 
Temptation thereunto, and Defperation of find- 
ing God s Mercy, is a hinderance of Regenera- 
tion. To this end, where any fear or fufpi- 
cion of any intention toward this fearful Sin 
doth appear, all Meeknefs Ihould be ufed by 
all that have interefl in the Perfbn fufpe6ted,thac 
may ierve to fave the vexed Party, from fuch 
a Mifchief; God muft be in called and requefted 
for relief unto the patient;Phyficians Ihould be cal- 
led, and moe Paftors then one,if they can be had, 
th^Soul in danger muft by Friends be watched 
and waited on, in a prudent manner Night and 
Day, that he never be alone. If the Perfon be 
capable ofReafon, he muft bedealtwith free- 
ly toconfefs his Temptation £nd purpofe toward 
this, Sin, the Caufes moving him muft be en- 
quired after;andif they be other then the fenfe of 
Sin & Fear,or feeling of God's Wrath,then courfe 
muft betaken to make the Party fenfible of Sin Sc 
to fear God's Wrath,& to confider,that if they give 
way to that Sin they are tempted unto, they do no 
lefs,inefied; then caft themfelvesinHell, where the 
Juftice & Wrath of God ihall ly upon them without 
hope of eafe or ending of their everlaftingTormenr/ 

from 



BOOK. I 166 ] CHAR X. 

from which fearful Definition, they may be 
preferved both in .Soul and Body, if they fliall 
acknowledge their Sin, and fly to God in Chrift 
offering Grace and Pardon of Sin, and Delivery 
from Hell and Right unto Heaven, promifed to 
all and everyone who fliall embrace Jefus Chrift 
for their Redemption, And for thefe, whofe 
Vexation is roain'y from the Conference of hei- 
nous Sins,and felt Wrath of Godpuriuing them, 
the Grace offered in the Gofpel muft be cleared 
unto them and inculcated; if they can be moved 
to giveReafons of their Fear and to propone their 
Doubts, who knoweth what Blefling may fol- 
low on their free-deali»g v and from faithful An- 
fwers from Scripture returned unto them ? Con- 
ferences of experimented Chriftians may with 
profit be made ufe of in the Patient's Audi- 
ence, whereby the Party may receive both 
increafc of Knowledge and fbme beginnings of 
Comfort. Among other Means, Godly Perfons 
who have in their own Exercife had Experience 
of fuck Temptations, and have gotten Victory 
by flying unto Chrift, mayferve much by their 
Conference to encourage'them. In fome of thofe 
tempted Souls, Tokens of good hope will Ihort- 
ly appear, in others it may be, none can ecn- 
jed^jre what fliall be the event, till the time de- 
clare it, whether Juftice or Mercy was intended 
of God; for both in the Eled, who are cured of 
thisDifeafe, and in the Reprobate, who perifliin 
^heir Sin, the fame Symptoms may appear ; if 

the 



BOOK I. [ z66 } CHAP.'X. 

the Anxiety and Expreflions of the one and the 
other be compared: Therefore care mull be had 
of every one under fuch Temptations, whatfoe- 
verthe tvent may be, and the Lord's Blcffing 
waited for in the ufe of the Means, Scripture 
fheweth us how hard Exerciies God's dear Chil- 
dren havt been under. Befide many other Saints 
we fhallonly name two Witneffes, the one is 
Heman the Ezraite, that precious Soul,notmuch 
inferior to Solomon in Wifdom, i King. 4. 31. of 
whom no Man could fay, he was a weak Brain, 
and Hypochondriack, or Melancholious Perfbn, 
whole fad Exercile {lands regiftrated (Pf. 8 8.) for 
many Man's Comfort The other witnefs fliall 
be Job, whofe Perplexities we read in hisDlfpute 
with his Friends, and how he tailed of this bit- 
ter Temptation aifo, Job 7. 13, 14, if. When I 
fay my Be djh all comfort me, my Couch ft) all eafe my 
Complaint, then thou skarreft me with Dreams, and 
terrifies me with Vifions, Jo that my Soul choofeth 
flrangling. Behold, there is a very fad Exercile 
of the moll Holy and Righteous Man on Earth ; 
there is a lore Temptation even unto Self-mur- 
der, but how is this Temptation overcome? Firfl, 
he doth not hide his Temptation, but openeth it 
up in the worll lhape: This giveth die Tempta- 
tion vent, he will not conceal it, nor be Satan's 
Sccretar in this ; and this is one Mean to weaken 
the Temptation. Then he prefenteth it before 
God, and poureth out his Complaint unto the 
Lord, and this giveth him the Vi&ory. So lee 

ail 



BOOKL [ 268 1 CHAP. 3&. 

all Souls Tempted unto Defperation do, and 
and cleave to God in Chrift, and they fhall be 
vi&oriousalfb. 

CHAP. XI. 

Concerning them that Ahjolve them/elves without 
Warrand. 

T He Third Rank of thofe that impede their 
ownRegeneration^erftaineth to be fpokcii 
of. Of this kind are all they, who, af- 
ter they have (lightly examined themfelves, and 
are convinced of Sim and Deferved Death, if 
they were dealt with 111 rigor of Juftice do un- 
warrantably Abfolve themfelves; deceiving their 
own Confcienceby a Fallacy, falfe Sylogifm, or 
captious Reafoning, and from the Confcience,as 
from a blinded or feduced Judge, do draw forth 
a Sentence of Abfolution to themfelves which 
God doth not allow. All fuch Perfons do either 
lay down fome falfe Principle or Ground for Ab- 
folution of Sinners; or, if they lay down a true 
Ground, they make wrong Application of that 
Ground to themfelves, and fo beguile them- 
felves miferably. 

the firft fort. , 

SOme do grant themfelves' to be Sinners, 
but do peri wade themfelves^ that God is fo 
Merciful as He will not d'eftro/ any Man for 
Sin : which Principle being? once laid ddwn, no 

Won- 



BOOK I. [ 269 ] CHAP. XT 

wonder fuch Men go on in their own way, and 
fing a Requiem to their own Souls. Of this fort 
of Men the Lord doth fpeak, Deut. 29. 18, 19. 
iliewing, that He makes His Covenant with His 
People, left there jkould be among you, faith 
He, a root that bear eth Gall and Wormwood. And 
it come to pafs, when he heareth the words of this 
Curfe, that he blefs himfelfin his Heart, faying, I 
Jhall have peace, though I walk in the imagination 
of my own Heart, to add drunkennefs to thirft. It is 
poflible, few fhall be found fo impudent, as that 
they dare in exprefs terms, profefs this their 
Misbelief of God's Juftice ; yet, they are not 
a few who fofter this Error in their Heart, who 
having, as it were made a Covenant with Death 
and Hell, are far from fearing to perilh in their Sins. 
In this fort are all they to be ranked, who con- 
ceive, that all the Threatenings in the Scripture 
are given forth, to the intent, that Men, being 
bridled by Terrors, might compofe themfelves 
to a more Humane and Social Life among others; 
who, left they ihould fcem Atheifts in word, 
do cry up God's Mercy, Bounty and Love to 
Man, fo as they mate fmall reckoning of the 
Lord's Truth and Juftice, even as if the Juftice 
of God in punifhing Rebels,could not confift with 
His Mercy to the Penitent, or as if the end of 
creating Man, could not be obtained, if obflinat 
Sinners be deftroyed. 

2. The main Caufe of fuch Error is an obfti- 
aat purpofe to walk after the Counfel and Imagina* 

ti* 



BOOK I. [ 270 ] CHAR XI 

tion of their own Heart ; and becaufe they can- 
not quiet their Confidence in following their own 
ways, except in promifingto themfelves impu- 
nity in their Sinning, they prcfume confidently 
to go on in their own ways againftall Threaten- 
ings, and fo do blow their Confciences blind. 
Such profane Preemption, although it deferv- 
eth to be beaten with a Rod,rather than to be rea- 
fbned with, yet let the Paftor deal with the Pre- 
fumer, as he ought to do with other defperat 
like Sinners ; and in the firft place, lec him pro- 
pose for Remedy of this Evil, what the Lord 
doth fpeak againft fucha Perfon, Deut. 29. 20. 
The Lsrd mil not [pare him, hut then the Anger of 
the Lor d and His Jealoufjte jkall fmoake agatnll that 
Man, and all theCurfes that are written in this Book 
JhfJl lye upon him, . and the Lord fh all blot out his 
Name from under Heaven. And as he findeth 
this work upon Him, (b let him deal with him. 
2. Some are near of Kindered to fuch Perfons, 
who do not reject all Threatenings, yet do think 
in their Heart that none are in danger except 
grols flagitious and notorious Sinners ; but as 
to themieives, they conceive becaufe they are 
not the word of Men, they are without the reach 
of Divine JuflieGv efpccialiy if their Conventi- 
on be according to humane Laws,lb regulated as 
they have the Reputation of honed Neighbours. 
With fucli Men Chrift dealeth (Luk.i 3*1,1, y.J 
when word came concerning the Galileans, whofe 
blood Pilate mixed with their Sacrifices, Chrift 

faltU 



BOOK I. [ 271 ] CHAP. XI. 

faith to them ySuppofe ye that thefe Galileans were Si- 
xers above all Galileans, becaufe they Juffered thefi 
things? I tell you, nay, but except ye repent you fh all 
all likeways perijh. This is the Remedy prefcrib- 
ed by Chrift to fuch Men. 

3. Some there are who hope to be abfolved 
before God, and do abfolve themfelves in their 
own Confidence, by their good Works and Obe- 
dience done to the Law. Of this fort was Paul 
before his Converfion, who, till the time that 
thefpiritual Light of the Law brake in upon his 
Mind, and killed the conceit of his own inherent 
Righteoufnefs, was no mean Man in his own 
Eyes, Rom. 7. 9. Such was the rich young Man 
in the Gofpel, whofaid to Chriil, that he had 
keeped all the Commands from his Youth up, 
till Chrift did prove him a covetous Idolater,who 
put a higher Price on his Riches than upon Chrift 
and the Kingdom of Heaven : Such were the 
Pharifees y who, by their Obedience to the Law 
(Tuch as it was) doubted nothing to abfolve 
themfelves, and that God fhould abfolve them 
alfo. But that the Met-yaird lhould be no longer 
than their Cloath, or the Law of further extent 
than their imagined poffible Practice, they admit- 
ted no Metonymie or Figurative Speech in the 
Law, vyhereby under one Branch of a Duty com- 
manded, all Duties of that kind are comprehen- 
ded, and all Faults contrary to the Duty arc for- 
bidden. As for Example, they counted not die 
Sixth Command to be violate, except the Man 

S M 



BO OK I. [ 27* I CHAP. XT. 

did cake away his Neighbours Life, nor the Se- 
venth Command broken,cxcept by grofs Adultery 
and violation of the Marriage-bed; nor the Eight 
Command tranfgrefsed, except another Man's 
Xioods were openly or privately taken away, 
whofe Mjftake Chrift doth corred, Matth. Chap. 
5. and 6. 

2. Such Men as thole are far from Repentance, 
far from humbling themfelves before God and 
feeking Remiftion of Sin through Chrift; for, 
they are Ignorant of the Righteoufnefs of the 
Gofpel by faith in Jefus Chrift, and of the way 
of coming to Ability for doing any acceptable 
Work by Faith in Chrift, and therefore they 
go ahout to eftablijh their own Righteoufnefs, 
Rom. 10.3. and 9. 31. 32. The falie Ground 
which they do lay for their own Abfolution, is 
this, they think to be Juftified by their Works; 
againft which Ground, the Apoftle hath pro- 
nounced condemnatory Sentence, Rem. 3. 20. 
By the Deeds of the Law, /hall no Flefh be juftified, 
in God's fight for, by the Law is the knowledge of Sin. 
3. With this fort we may join thefe.who not on- 
ly come fhort of theObedience due to theLaw,but 
alfo are inConfcience convi&ed of many Tranfc 
greflions of the Lord's Law; yet, they conceive 
that God will not exad: of them, or of any Man 
who is about to obeyHisLaw,more than the Man 
can in the common infirmity of Flefli overtake,& 
do perfvvade themfelves that God will be fatisfied 
with all them in whom is a willingnels to obey 

the 



BOOK I. [ *73 1 CHAP. XI. 

the Law.-Their falfe Ground which they lay,is this 
that God will accept a Man's Will for the Deed 
And to this purpofe they doabufe the Scriptures* 
ffa.i.iyjfyoube willing & obedient, you flail eat the 
goods Things of the Land, And, iCor. 8,12. If there 
be fir (l a willing Mind.it is accepted \according to that 
a Man hath, and not according to that he hath not. 
4. But here is their Error^vhereupon they pur- 
chafe from their Confcience mif-informed an un- 
warrantable Abfolution; Firft,they lay down for 
a Ground that they muft be juftified by Works. 
2. Becaufe they know they, do come, and fhall 
comefhort in Obedience,they turn the Condition 
of the Covenant of Works, into other Terms 
than God hath appointed, and make the will of 
a Man to obey the Law fo far as he is able, to be 
the Condition of the Covenant, which God dif- 
ciaimcth. 3. They deceive themfelves in this,that 
what is fpoken to Converted Believers in Jefus 
Chrift,already Juftified by Faith,aiming at new O- 
bedieuce,they do apply to themfelves,lying under 
the Curfe and Covenant of Works : For,it is true 
indeed, when God is dealing with thofe that are 
already Juftified by Faith in Jefus, and have re- 
nounced all confidence in their o\vnWorks,& fled 
unto Chrift,& have taken on His Yoke 4 the Lord 
doth take in good part the firft Ftuits of the new 
Creature, & doth much efteem the tender Fruits 
of the Spirit, as the places cited (jfa. 1. and 2 
G?/\8.) do fbew.But when the Lord hath to dowith 
the proud natural Man, the unrenewed Man, the 

S 2 



BOOK I. [ 274 ] CHAP. XI. 

Man that is not humbled for violation of theCo- 
venant of Works, He dealeth with him accord- 
ing to the Rigor of the Law, according to the 
Condition of the Covenant ot Works, pronounc- 
ing His Curfe againft that Man, for every Sin, 
till the Sinner be humbled and fly to Chrift. 

5. With the former we may join all thefe, who 
believe they may wafli away their Sins, partly 
by bearing fuch Afflictions as are laid on them 
by God in this Life; partly, by their Tears, Pray- 
ers, Fadings, Pilgrimages, Penances,and Scourg- 
ing of themfelves ; and partly, by their Almes- 
deeds and other good Works, do believe they 
ihall make Amends for all their Mifdeeds ; and 
what they cannot perfect in this Life for the 
matter of good Works, they will take Afligna- 
tion to the Supererogation and Superfluity of the 
Merits of Saints, made over unto them by the 
Pope : And what for the matter of Suffering is 
not endured in this Life,they will take upon them 
to endure in an imagniary Purgatory, and place 
oi Hell after this Life ; and fo (poor Souls) they 
think they may Abfolve themfelves 3 at leaft from 
the Sentence of everlafting Condemnation, by 
fuch poor fhifts as thofe. But the truth is, 
fo long as they rely upon their own Sufferings 
and Satisfa&ions, they deny both the neceflity 
and the worth of Chrifts Sufferings ; and fo 
long a** they have confidence in their own Works, 
or Works of other Men,they reje&and difclaim 

, when^ 



BOOK I. [ 175 ] CHAP. XI. 

the Covenant of Grace ; and yet, behold how 
proud they prove themfelves to be, Ifa. 58. 3. 
when they plead with God, faying, Wherefore 
have we fa fled, and thou feefl not ? wherefore have 
we afflicted our Soul, and thou takell no knowledge* 
6. Laft of all, unto the former fort we join 
thefe,who pleafe themfelves in the compofitions 
of Righteoufnefs by Works and Righteoufnefs by 
Faith, thinking to five themfelves under the 
fhelter of the one Righteoufnefs or of the other, 
however God ihall deal with them.Such were the 
Seducers and feduced amongft the G alati am :\ or. 
refuting of whofe Error, the Apoftle (as it were) 
travelled in Birth till he brought them to take 
up the right frame of ChriiVs way of Salvation. 
7-The Caufe of all fuch Mens deceiving of them- 
felves in a falfe Abfblution of their Confcience,is 
their Ignorance both of the Righteoufnefs of the 
Law, and of the Righteoufnefs by Faith : For, 
fuch as think their Sins are fo few and light, or 
their Lives,fb innocent,or their good Works they 
have done fo weighty, and their Purpofe to do 
yet moe good Works to be fo Holy,or their Pains 
taken in Religion fo confiderable, or their Suffer- 
ings refolved upon, fo great, and thereupon do 
abfblve themfelves, confider not that the Law, 
or Covenant of Works, doth require perfe£r,per- 
fbnal Obedience to all God's Law, under the pain 
of God's Curfe, growing in Items, as the Law is 
oftener tranfgrefied,till they fly in to the perfect 
R^nfom of Chrift's Obedience. And as for the 
S 3 Righ- 



BOOK I. [ 276 } CHAP. XL 

Righteoufnefs of Faith in Jefus, they confider not, 
that His Righteoufnefs will not be bellowed up- 
on any who do not renounce all confidence in 
their own or others Works,and betake themfelves 
altogether to the only Grace of Chrift : they 
confider not that if the worth of any Work be 
relied upon, the Bargain of free Grace is fpoil- 
ed, and clear marred; Tor, if it he hy Works, it is 
no more of Grace; and if it be of Grace, it is no more 
of Works ; for, thefe two are fo oppoftte one to 
another in the matter of Man's Ele&ion and Ju- 
stification, that they can no more confift toge- 
ther, as Caufes procuring or moving God, then 
contradictory Sentences can be both true,as Paal 
teacheth, Rom. 11, 6. 

3. A Third fort of Self-deceivers and unwar- 
ranted Self-abfblvcrs, we reckon all Perfons poi- 
fdned with deadly Herefies,who,being drawn a- 
way from the Do&rine of Chrift,fet down in the 
holy Scriptures,turn after fome falfe chrift &falfe 
religion of Men's, or their own devifing, giving 
unto their Idol,what Worfhip, what Service, what 
Employment, what Power,they pleafe,and mak- 
ing their own conditions of peace with God as 
they think good; fbme denying the Eternity of 
the God-head of the true Chriftjfome cheRealiry 
of His afTumed Humane Nature; fome evacuat- 
ing fo far as they can His Three Offices, and 
the Fruit of His Execution thereof, all of them 
prormfing to themfelves Salvation in another,than 

:hetrue Chrift described to us in Scripture, who 

is 



BOOK I. [ 277 ] CHAR XL 

is Creator,Up-holder andGovernour of alf things, 
very coeternal God with the Father and Holy. 
Spirit,in the fulncis of time made Man, ever- liv- 
ing Prophet, Pricftand King to His Church,both 
before His Incarnation and conftantly fince, the 
Way, die Truth, and the Life, made of God 
unto true Believers in Him, Wifdom, Righteoui- 
nefs, Sanclification and Redemption^vho walks 
among the Golden Candle-flicks, and fearches 
the Ways and Hearts of every Man,as he holdeth 
forth Himfelf in thefe Epiftles unto the (even 
Churches of Afia, Rev. Chap. z. and 3. Of this 
danger of miilaking of the true Chrift and em- 
bracing a falfeinHis Room, He Himfelf doth 
carefully fore-warn His Difciples, Matth. 24. 4. 
5, 24, 25*, a 6. Take heed that no Man deceive 
you ; for many /hall come in My Name, faying, I 
amChri(l 9 and fh all deceive many. 

The proper Remedy of this Evil, is this, Let 
every one that hath an Ear, hear what the Spirit 
fpeaketh to the Churches, not only in thefe fevenE- 
piftlesjbut alfo in all the reft of the Hoiy Scrip- 
tures, which are the Exprefiions of the Holy Spi- 
rit; but if any Man receive not the Truth in love (et 
down by the Lord's Spirit in the Scripture,his Pu- 
nilliment isfctdownby the Apoftie, z Theff. 2. 
11. and for this caufe, to wit, becaufe they receiv- 
ed not the love of the Truth that they might he Saved, 
God fhall fend them fir ong Delufion, that theyfhould 
helieve a Lye, that they all might be damned who be liv- 
ed not theTrUth but had pie afire in Unrigjneou fiefs. 

S 4 1 The 



BOOK I. [ 278 ] CHAP. XI. 

1. The Fourth fort of AMblvers ofthemfelves 
without God's Warrand, are thefe who pretend 
unto true Religion, and deny the power of it; of 
whom fome are convinced of theirDuty to Repent 
their Sins, and to forfake their Lulls, and to en* 
deavour a Reformation of their Life ; and this 
they do promife to themfelves, and purpofe fe- 
rioufly to do (as they think)onlythey cannot pre- 
fently, and at once v break off the courfe they are 
upon, but do hope by little and little to come 
forward, and at length that they fliall wholly 
give themfelves to religious Exercifes, and a 
Holy Life; mean time they conceive, they may 
come in among the true Converts and young Be- 
ginners, albeit they come not up the length 
which they intend, but are under the power of 
fome beloved Lufts, \rhich they cannot rid them- 
selves of, but do hope they fhall by time over- 
come them. Such Men do miferably miftake 
the Matter; Firft, in that they think their pur- 
pofe of Repentance,and a new Life bred in them 
by conviihon of their Duty, to be the very 
Grace of Regeneration and begun San&ification. 
Secondly, they conceive that the Lufts which do 
reign in themfelves,are common to them and all 
other Regenerat Perfons, of whom few or none 
(think they) want their own grofs Faults. Third- 
ly, they conceive they can repent more ferioufly 
when they pleafe, and will repent after a whiles 
following of their beloved Lufts, as if Repen- 
tance were not a laving Grace of the Holy Spi- 
rit 



BOOK I. [ *7? 1 CHAP. XI. 

rit, whom they do daily provoke by their Vile- 
nets, but a work in the power of every Man's 
Free will,being once convinced of his Sin.Fourth- 
| ly they do not confider, that by the delay of 
repenting and turning from all Sin unto God, 
their Heart is daily more and more in God's 
Judgement, hardened, and God provoked tq 
punifh their voluntary Impenitence with judicial 
hardnefs of Heart, that they thai I never repent. 
Such Men our Lord compareth to the Difobedient 
Son, who promifed to his Father he would go 
work in his Vincyeard,and went not. Matth.zi. 
30. Such Men are they, who know the Will of 
the Lord, but do it not, and therefore worthy 
of double Punifliment, Matth. 12. 47. The Re- 
medy of this Evil Chrifl giveth, Luke 1 3. 24, 25-, 
2,6. Strive to enter at the (Irak Gate: for marry, I 
fay unto you, will jeek to enter in, and fhallnot le a- 
ble. Men know not how foon God may ihutriic 
Door, therefore Men had need while it u to day, 
not to harden their Hearts. Ptal. 95". 8. 

x. Other fome are, who being of a civil Life, 
profefs and do perfwade themfelves, that they 
indeed do Repent and Believe in Chrifl, and by 
Faith in Him, do certainly exped Salvation free- 
ly of His Grace. If you pofe any fuch Men,whe- 
ther they do indeed Believe in Chrift. They thall 
prefently anfwer, that they firmly do believe in 
Him, and that they never doubt but He is their 
fweet Saviour who died for them. If you prefs 
them to fpeak in earneft from their Heart, they 

fliall 



BOOK I. [ 280 ] CHAP. %l 

ihall prefently be*ill pleafed with the Queftion; 
and ask, what Caufe of fufpe&ing the Sincerity of 
their Faith and Repentance can be juftly alled- 
ged?or,what Caufe hath any Man tofufpedt them 
or,doubt of God's Favour toward them inChrift? 
In whomfhould we believe (fey they) if not in 
Chrift? Is there any other Saviour of Sinners be- 
fidehim?Jf a Manpleafe to try the Truth of their 
Faith by their Repentance, they ihall forthwith 
affirm, that they repent Day and Night,and have 
juft caufe fo to do; for in many things we fin all, 
and why then fhould we not always Repent? Jf 
they be asked of their Love to God and their 
Neighbour, they Ihall anfwer after the fame man- 
ner. Such Men arc thefe,ofwhomChriftfpeak- 
eth that they will confidently come to Him, and 
call Him Lord ,Lord, and yet be found no ways 
careful to do the Lords Will, but Servants to 
their own Lufts. 

3 .Such Men do deceive themfelves,firfl,by fra- 
ming to themfeives fuch carnal Notions of Faith 
and Repentance, and of the Lave of God,and of 
Saving Hope,& other Spiritual Graces, as in their. 
Phantafie they conceive they dopra&ife, which 
Conceptions are not grounded upon the Word 
of God. Secondly, they efteem the aflent-of their 
Mind unto the Truth, commending thefe Duties 
unto Men,as good as the performance of them : 
and they do take the Sentence of their Confci- 
ence concerning the Equity of fuch Duties, for, 
the Sentence of their Confcience bearing witnefs 

of 



iOOK l [ 281 ] chap. xr. 

:>f their Practice and Obedience of thefe Dudes, 
ihd while their Confcience faith whyjhould I do 
0? they take that for as good,as if it liM* laid / 
Jofo:but Saving Graces go deeper than civil car- 
riage,and to commend the Duties of Repentance 
and Faith in Chrift, is not enough, except they 
put in practice alfo,in daily (brrow for Sin & hat- 
red of it, and flying to Chrift daily to bewalhen 
and more and more landtified. 

4. Some there are,\vho,\vhen they have heard 
that a Man is Juftified by Faith in Chrift only, 
without the Works of the Law,do imagine a Faith, 
which needech not to bring forth any good 
Works at all; and fo they take off the Juftified 
Man from all neccfiity of following good Works, 
as far as they take off goodWorks from being the 
Caufe of Juftification, and do open a Door to 
themfelves to live after their ownWill in the Lulls 
of their Flefli, conceiving, that they who believe 
in Chrift are fred $ not only from the Covenant of 
theLaw,but alfo from the Command of die Law, 
againft whom our Lord doth fpeak, and doth cut 
off liich Libertines & Turners of the Grace of God 
into Wantonnefs, from the Kingdom of Heaven,. 
/fo/-.^. 17. 18. 19. And the Apoftle to guard againft 
thisSelf dcceit,(£feAi 2.1 ^command eth tofoliow 
ft&linefs, without which no Man'jhall fee the Lord. 

5. Some there are who pretending to eiteem 
well of the offer ofthe Gofpel, & of the Duty of 
following the means of making them partaker 
^f the Marriage-ftpyer, do yet think them- 
felves 



BOOK I. C 't$*\Y CHAR XI. 

(elves excufable, when they have much ado in 
their worldly Callings, albeit they prefer the care 
of theif family, and provifion for their Things 
outward/ unto the main work of their entertain- 
ing Communion with God ; yea they conceive, 
that God will allow them in fo doing, as Chriftfe 
doth infinuate in the Parable of the Ghuefts in-]j 
vitedto theFeaft, anfwering the Invitation with 
I pray h&vewe excufed, Luk. 14. 18, 19. This is 
a rife Evil in great Perfonages, rich Perfbns,and 
fuch as are much imploied in earthly Affairs ; 
{uch Men deceive themfelves : Firft, in laying 
down this Ground with themfelves, that theiri 
earthly Affairs, the neceffity whereof doth,firft, ; 
and moft fenfibly appear, muft in the firft room! 
be cared for, and that the one thing neceflar may* 
be followed after,as their civil and earthly Affairsf 
may permit. Secondly, they reckon Gain to be 
Godlinefi, 1 Tim. 6. 5. for they cannot be per- 
fwaded, when Gain may be had, that God re- 
quireth of any Man to flip the occafion, or to 
put his wordly Goods in hazard, by defending 
or following Matters of Religion. Thirdly, theyj 
think themfelves fo wife,as they can well enough 
fervc two Matters, God and Covetoufnefs, albeit 
when it cometh to the proof, they will be found] 
to ferve, not God, but their own Lufts. This 
Error our Lord refuteth, and giveth warning to 
beware of it, Matth. 6. 24. and Luk. %s.- 34. Takel 
heed to your f elves, left at any time your Hearts he 
ever-charged with Surfeiting, and Drunkennefs, and\ 

cares 



BOOK I. [ 283 ] CHAP. XL 

lares of this Life. No wonder tken, that fuch 
Vlen profit not by the Word of God, but remain 
iruitlefs, becaufe they arc by our Lord compa- 
ed to the Ground that receiveth the Seed among 
Thorns, Mat. 13 22. Heheareth the Word, but 
he Cares of this World, and the Deceit falnefs of 
Riches, choaks the Word, and he remaineth unfruit- 
ful. 

6. Some there are, who, having received a 
iifficient Meafurc of Gifts, whereby they may 
>romove the Kingdom of Chrift, and be profita- 
)le to the Society they live in, by making ufe of 
heir Gifts, do pack up all their Duties in a Se- 
jueftration of themfelves from allBufmefs, con-* 
eiving this way to be fitted both for God's Ser- 
vice and their own Salvation. Whereupon they 
>etake themfelves to a private Life in feme ob- 
cure Corner, choofing rather to live as Monks 
nd Eremites, than to appear in publick and make 
ife of their Gifts,with the hazard of toiling ehem- 
elves, and toffing of their Eftimation among Be- 
idlders of them. And this their Refolution is 
acked with a pretended purpofe, to fpend their 
ime in Reading and Prayers, without provoking 
ny Man to Hatred or Emulation againft them: 
Thus they conceive they ihall provide belt for 
heir ownEafe and Safety : And if withal, they 
pprchend that they are not fitted with Gifts, 
/hich may be profitable to others, and do think, 
v'hat they have beflowed upon them by God, to 
c fcarce fufficient for the carrying of themfelves 

on 



BOOK I. [ 284 ] CHAP. XI I 

on in the courfe that tendcth toHappinefs, diet 
they conceive they are well excufed, if they let 
all publick Works alone, without putting forth 
their Finger to help what they fee amifs. We do 
not deny, but fundry Godly Perfons, in the heat 
of Perfecution, have been forced to lurk in a Wil- 
derriefs among wild Beads, during the time, of* 
danger, of whole fellowfliip the World was not 
worthy ; neither do we deny that Age and Infir- 
mity of Body may make Men unfit for all pub- 
lick Imployment ; but the Fault we tax is of fuel 
Men, as being able, in Church or State, to d 
Service to God and the Society they live in, do 
for the love of their own Eafe, hide their Ta- 
lent, and not make ufe thereof for the benefit o£ 
others ; for if a narrow fearch be made of fuel? 
Mens Refolution, the fear of outward trouble 
in the World, a declining to fight the Fight of. 
Faith, impatience to be at any Pains, and a de- 
fire to keep the edimation of their Parts from 
the hazard of Mens Cenfure, and love of their 
own fieflily Eafe, will be found the Fountain of! 
their Refolution. But, here we deal with none 
but fuch as the Apofile andChrift doth fpeak a- 
gainft, to wit, fuch as in fome honed Imployi 
merit, for the common Utility, refufe to be at I 
Pains and Work, and therefore are not worthy 
of their Bread, 2 Tkejf. 3. 10. And let us hearken;! 
to Chad's Judgement of fuch Men, whom the 
World admireth for mod Holy Monks, in the 
Parable of the Talents, He taketh up the lazy 

Lub- I 

1 



book i. [ 28? ] ch;ap. XL 

Lubbarc, of whom we fpeak, under the reckon- 
ing of a knavilh Servant, who becaufe he had 
but one Talent (which amounteth to no (mall 
Sum) went away and hid it in the Earth, Matth. 
z$. z6. Thou wicke d and 'Jlotbful Servant , faith He, 
&v. and Ver. 30, call the unprofitable Servant in- 
to utter darknefs, there Jhall he weeping and gnajb- 
zug of Teeth. 

The Remedy is, that Men of parts and Abili- 
ties do not yeild unto their lazy huipor, nor to 
their difcouragemenrs which may fofter their 
Temptations to Idlenefs, but itudy rather to live 
in the (enfe of their Obligations to God, and to 
improve all that they have received from Him, 
I for His Honour and the Well-fare of His People: 
i and to this end, it is fit they Ihould hearken to 
the counfel of judicious Friends, rather than lean 
to their ownjudgment over-fwayed with Temp- 
tations, left the Lord decipher them, and lead 
: them forth with the Workers of Iniquity.F/i 2 5-. 5-. 
7. Some are very like, in all Externals, to the 
true Converts, fo far as can be obferved by Be- 
holders: For they profefs the true Religion with 
others, they feem to have confecrate themfelves 
untoChrift, they ailbciate themfelves unto, and 
haunt the company of thefe who are in bed cfteem 
and join therrifelvcs always with the reputed 
Godly, they feem ready prepared to bear Chrifts 
Crofs,and to go forth out ot the City after Him, 
bearing His Reproach,& to be Waiters upon His 
Second Coming, yet inwardly they were never 

re- 



BOOK I. [ 286 ] CHAP. XI. 

renewed, they are not troubled with thefenfeof 
Sin and Sinfulnefs, they do not in earneft, or 
ferioufly feek after ChrilVs Righteoufnefs and 
Remiffion of Sin through Him, nor worfliip God 
in their Spirit. Thefe are deferibed to us in the 
Parable of the Foolifh and Wife Virgins. Matth. 
z$. the Foolifh were in company 2nd outward 
fellowship of Religion with the Wife, their out- 
ward Converfatibn was without Scandal, as was 
the Behaviour of the Wife; they had Lamps of 
Profeffion as the Wife, and were not fufpe&ed 
by themfelves or others to be unfound, they 
went forth in Profeffion waiting for the coming 
of the Lord, as the Wile did ; and laftof all, no 
other Infirmities were found in them, than fuch 
as the Wife Virgins were fubjed: unto alfb, they 
all fell aileep now and then, nothing could be 
outwardly found to difference them from the 
Wife Virgins ; which external liknefs, as it de- 
ceived the Beholders of thefe Foolifh Virgins,fo 
alio it deceived themfelves ; neither fhall this 
perfonal difference be openly manifefted, till the 
the Judge, the Searcher of Hearts, fhall come 
and feparat the Goats from the Sheep, and the 
Hypocrites from the unfeigned Believers. ■ The 
Remedy is, that every who pretend unto Holi- 
nefs externally, fearch their owiv Hearts, and 
inward Sinfulnefs, /daily, and fly to Chrift in ear- 
ned, that their Nakednefs may be covered, and 
their Affections made fpiritual 3 feekiag after things 
above, and that by Faitlr in Chrift they may be 



BOOK I I 287 ] CHAP. X[. 

filled with the Undtion of the Holy Spirit, for 
bringing forth true Fruits of Faith. 

8. Unto the former, we may join fuch, as for 
their eminent Gifts above the common fort of 

(pious People, and their Abilities to confer, dip- 
courfednd difpute of Matters of Religion, iecm 
to themfelves and to Beholders alio, eminent 
Saints, cfpecially if they appear fharp Cenfurers 
of others, and zealous againft every icafi degree 
of Sin in others,but moft of all, if they, for their 
Enduements,be fitted and called to Pray in pub- 
lick,and Preach the Gofpel to others, and withal 
do live without Scandal,thcy doubt nothing but 
they are high in God's eftimation, as they are fee 
up in Reputation among the Godly in the vifible 
Church. Now that fuch gifted Men may de- 
ceive themfelves, and pais Sentence in their own 
favours for their own Abfolution from any Chal- 
lcnge,which may condemn thcm,our Lord doth 
fore-Warn us, Matth. 7. 21, 22. telling, us that 
not only many private Profellbrs of the Chri- 
ftian Religion,and teeming zealous Worfhipcrs, 
crying, Lord, Lord, may deceive themfelves and 
mils Heaven, but alfo Preachers of the Gofpel, 
yea and Prophets, yea, and Men endued with 
the Gift of doing Miracles, and calling out of 
Devils in ChrifYs Name, not a few ihall b * di£ 
claimed by Chrift and condemned by Him in the 
Day of Judgment. If it be asked, what can be 
their Miftake,and the Caufe of Chrilt/s rejertmg 
of them>\veanf\ver,Such Men deceive themfelves 

X 1. Be- 



BOOK I. [ 288 ] CHAP. XL 

i . Becaufe both they and Beholders alfo think 
them Ho!ier,than they who are inferior in Place 
and Gifts unto them. 2. They compare them- 
felveswiththofe they live among, and not with 
the Law of God. 3. They put not due diffe- 
rence between common Gifts and laving Graces. 
4.They confider not,that to whom much is given, 
much will be required of them; and therefore, 
after trial they will be found puft up with the 
cftimation of Gifts,Enduements Employments and 
Succefs which they have had, as if thefc were 
the undoubted Evidences of their Regeneration, 
and of God's {pecial Love towards them;they will 
be found Men void of Repentance and far from 
bumble walking. In the fenfe of their natural, 
habitual and actual Sins,they will be found void 
of all fear of Wrath,which might drive them, in 
the acknowledgment of their Blindnefs, Poverty 
and Mi(ery,unto Chrift the Redeemer and Jufti- 
/ fier of Sinners;and they will be found void of all 
u care of, and endeavour after new Obedience, 
conceiving.that the Exercife of their Gifts and 
Succefs in their Imployments, arc fufiicient Ho- 
linefs>and evidence of the Holy Ghoft's dwelling 
in them and working by them; for, othervvays, 
y^Chrift will never dilclaim them who have fled 
' to Him in the fenfe of their Sin,and haunted Him 
as their Refuge, in the fear of deferved Wrath, 
and ftudied by Faith in Him to be furnilhed to 
bring forth the Fruits of the Spirit,which He hath 
promifed to them that abide in Him. 



BOOK L t *8 9 ] CHAP. XI. 

It is one thing to be Juftified before God, a- 
nother thing to be reputed Righteous by Men, 
and efteemed fo by a Man's own felf ; it is one 
thing to be endued with the knowledge of Di- 
vine Myfteries, another thing favingly to be- 
lieve them,and have them written in their Heart; 
it is one thing to teach others the way of Salva- 
tion whereby the Hearers may be Saved, ano- 
ther thing to apply Saving Doctrine to them* 
felves> and make right life of it; it is one thing 
to cleanfe the outer fide of the Plater, and reform 
the Man's outward Carriage,another thing to be 
inwardly renewed; it is one thing to teach Re- 
pentance and Mortification of Lufts, another 
thing by the Spirit of Chrift to mortifie in-bred 
Pride ? and the Love of the World, vain Glory 
and other carnal Lulls. The courfe which Paul 
followed, is the only fafe way, though he was a 
Man moft laborious in the work of the Lord, 
yet he lived moft fenfible of his natural Corrup- 
tion and the Body of Death ; he did not truft in 
his Holy Life but in Jefus Chrift, Rom. 7. 24.25-. 
lie fomadeufe of Faith in Chrift, as he did not 
neglect the Means of Mortification of his fuiful 
Nature, 1 Cor. 9. 27. I keep under my Body ,and bring 
it under fubjeclionjeft that ly any Means .when J have 
preached to others, I my felfjhould be ,a Qajt-away. 
The Fifth and laft ibrt of Self-deceivers, by 
abfolving of themfelves without the Lords al- 
lowance or approbation,are Temporizers, who/or 

thtil' 



BOOK I. [ i 9 o 1 CHAP. XI. 

their temporary Believing,temporary Repenting, 
temporary Motions of their Affcohons.and tem- 
porary Amendment of their Manners, do ' feem 
to themfelves and others alfo.true Believers.This 
fort, however it be in fundry Cafes co-incident 
with one or moe of the former Four Self-abfol- 
vers, yet becaufe our Lord,in the [arable of the 
Sower of Seed J Matth. 13, ii. and Luke 4. 17J 
doth put a difference between the ftony Ground 
and the other forts of Ground, we fhal! give it 
a Room by it felf/ipecialiy becaufe ic may have 
the own proper Confiderations. 

Temporizers then, we call fuch, as upon tem- 
porary Motives, from temporary Principles, for, 
temporary Ends, do embrace the Word of the 
Lord readily, but flightly,and do as readily and 
lightly pafs from it upon temporary Motives, in 
fpecial, when Persecution arifeth for the Word, 
Mark. 4. 16. when they have heard the Word 
immediatly they receive it with Glarlnefs^ni after- 
ward when Afflidhon or Perfecution antes for 
the Word's fake, immediatly they are offended. 
Lightly they take up Truth delivered, and light- 
ly do they pafs from it again;thcy have no root 
in themfeves, or folid believing of the Truth,for 
the Truth's Caufe; but what pleafeth others,pleaP 
eth them, and what difpleafeth others, doth dif- 
pleafe them,in the Matters of Religion ; the way 
of God iet down in Scripture, when they hear if, 
they can fay nothing againftit; yea, they think 
it good to hear the Gofpel, and the largnefs of 

Gods 



BOOK I. [ 191 J CHAP. XL 

God's Grace, and becaufe it fheweth unto them, 
a pofliblity of their Salvation, they receive it 
With a fort of natural Gladne(s,which fort of be- 
living doth endure for a rime, to wit, fo long as 
the way of others among whom they live and 
the Laws of Country, and Profperity and good 
Eftimation with others goeth along with the Pro- 
feflion of the Truth received^but when the Wind 
of another Dodtrine b!oweth,and doth carry with 
it power to trouble and perfecute them who will 
not receive it. by and by they are offended, and' 
renounce the Truth controverted , becaufe it draw- 
eth trouble wi tli the profeflion of it.-For.fuch Per- 
fonsluppole, that Gain, Eafeand Appiaufe are 
very Godlinefs. It is true, tomenme the true Be- 
liever may be furprifed with afudden Tentation 
to renounce the Profeflion of Trrith in fome point 
for fear of Death, as Peter s Example cloth fliew 
us; but true Faith recovered! tlrength,and arifeth 
after a Fall, and endureth Perlecution for that 
Truth, as temporary Belief doth not, but faileth 
altogether: And the Temporizers Repentance 
failleth alfo.becaufe it arifeth from natural Prin- 
ciples,and is for natural Motives and Ends.Such 
was the Repentance of Saul in weeping and jufti- 
fying David for fparing his Life, 1 Sam. 2,7. 21. 
Such was the Repentance of the carnal Israelites 
PfaL 78. 36. and the humiliation of Ahah ; and 
fuch is their Amendment of Life, all nothing but 
temporary ,andwhich doth not continue as Hofea 
(chap. 6. : <4.) ilicweth/ Ephraim, what (hall I 

T 3 do 



BOOK I. [ 291 ] CHAP. XI. 

do unto thee} Judah ! what Jball I do untotheel 
jor thy goodness is like the morning Cloud, and like 
the early Dew that pajjeth foon away. 

Neither is it any wonder,that unrenewed Men 
may attain to fomething like unto Faith and Re- 
pentance and outward Amendment of Manners, 
if we confider that humane Writings find fo much 
credit with Men as riCttobecalledinquefl:ion,but 
believed to be true;for Experience tcftifieth, that 
their Affections are moved fometime with De- 
figpb and fometime with Indignation and Pity, 
not only when they read Hiftorics,but alfo when 
they read very Fables and fained Romances, 
which they know to be fuch, and yet they can- 
not command their AfFe&ions in reading of them: 
May not then an unrenewed Man give as much 
credit to Holy Scripture, and be affedted with the 
Holy Hiftcry thereof, without any change made 
of h:s perverfe Nature, the Wifdom whereof is 
Enmity againfl: God, and cannot fubjed: it (elf 
either to His Law or Gofpel? Secondly, if we 
consider what the power of a natural Confcience 
can work upon the Affe&ions, by jufl Accufa- 
lions, or Excufations, for raifing Grief and Joy 
therein, whereof not only Scripture, but alfo 
Heathen Writters do bear witnefs, we need 
not doubt, but the natural Confcience may 
hare tfi'e lame power in a temporary Believer. 
Third iy, if we con&der what the Precepts 
of Moral Philcfophy lk-rh wrought upon the 
Scholars of Socrates and Ariftetle, and other 

Hea- 



BOOK T. [ 293 ] CHAP. XI 

Heathca Maflers, for the outward framing of 
them unto feeming Vermes, we need notdoubt 
what the Precepts of the Moral Law may work 
upon a temporary Believer, for putting a luftre 
on hisLife,as was to be found in fundry Thartfees 
without Converfion and Renovation of the inner 
Man toward God. Fourthly, if we confider what 
Delight is found by Scholars in the Contempla- 
tion of thefe things which Philofophy doth treat 
o r , we maycafily perfwade ourfelves, that more 
Delight may be had in Contemplation of what 
Holy Scripture doth hold forth, without mak- 
ing the Man a new Creature. But when unto 
the natural Man's forefaid Teeming Perfections, 
Knowledge of the Myfteries of Religion and the 
Gifts of Preaching and Prophefying arefupperad- 
ded, which are but movable Gifts, common 
to renewed and unrenewed Men, and far 
from being Saving Graces, what wonder the 
natural Man and temporary Believer be puf- 
fed up with a high eflimation of his own 
worth and hope of being received by Chrift 
the Judge, and yet be found at laft to have de- 
ceived himfeif, and unwarrantably abfolved 
himfelf by his own deluded Confc\ence,as Chrift 
giverh warning, Matth. 7. 21. 

Quejh But, what > can a temporary Believer 
want coming up all the length that is now fpo- 
ken of, and iuppofed to be endued with Co many 
feeming good things, whereunto many Saved 
Saints do not attain ? 

T 4 



BOOK I. [ 294 1 CHAP. XL 

Anf. Every favcd Saint, is beaten out of Self- 
eftimation, for any thing in himfelf, beaten out 
of Confidence in any thing he doth or can do, 
and is humbled in his Heart by the Law, the fpi- 
ritual Perfection whereof being understood, kil- 
leth his natural Pride, Rom. j. 9. 

2. Every Saved Saint is chafed for Refuge to 
fly to Chrift,to His Righteoufnefs and the Riches 
of Grace holden forth in Him,and every Saved 
i Saint is a new Creature, aiming more and more 
I to follow the courfe of New Obedience,and draw- 
ing Vertue from Chrift by Faith to pleafc God, 
and worfhip Him in Spirit, Phil. 3. 3. So that 
his purpofe and endeavour in feme meafure, is 
Ijlit unto that of David, PfaL 71. 10. if, i<5» 
&ying,I will hope continually, and I will praije Thee 
more and more, my Mouth fhall fhew forth Thy Eigh- 
teen feejs and Thy Salvation all the day; for I know 
not the numhers thereof, I will walk in the Strength 
of the Lord God J will make mention of Thy Right e- 
oijnejs, even of Thine only. But the temporary Be- 
, liever,reckoncth not for his Debt and Defervings 
with the Law. he is not humbled in the fenfe of 
his Sins and Sinfulnels, and Inability to fatisfie 
the Law by himfelf, he hath not the root of Re- 
pentance in him ; for immediatly upon the hear- 
ing of the Gofpel, he receiveth the Word with 
Joy,witl;ouc Godiy Sorrow for his Sins, Luk. 8. 
13. The temporary Believer is ignorant of the 
RtghteouhefsofGod by Faith in- Jefus Chrift, 
and gocth about to eftablifh his own Righteouf- 



BOOK I. [ 195 ] CHAP. XI. 

nefs, upon the bottom of his own blamelefs 
Convcr(ation,Privilcdges of the vifible Church, 
common Gifts of the Spirit, and fuccefs with pro- 
fperity; all \vhich,becaufe he is not Juftified by 
Faith in Chrift, do not advance him above the 
ftatc of the Workers of Iniquity, Matth. 7. 21. 
22. 23. 

The Symptoms and ordinary Signs of this Ma- 
lady of unwarrantable Sclf-abfolution, are thele, 

1. All of this lort,are well pleafed with their own 
ways,they are not daily humbled in the fenfeof 
fhort-comingin Duties, and chafed to Chrift's 
Righteoufnefs, which may hid their nakednefs. 

2. They are all fecure and fear no Wrath, buc 
put the evil Day far from them. 3. They can- 
not be induced to any accurat Examination of 
their own Life, Ways, Condition or Eftate. If 
any Man infinuat any fufpicion of Hypocrifie 
inthem,or if their own Conscience begin to que- 
flicn their Sincenty^hey cannot endure it. 4.AI- 
beit they fay unto Chrift Lor J, Lord, yet they 
make little life of His Office of Mediation, of 
His Power,and Vertue for Jl!umination,Humili- 
ation, Healing and Helping on to Salvation. 5-. 
They look more to the feeming good things in 
in themfdves for (irengthening their carnal Con- 
fidence, than they take notice of the Evil of a 
Body of Death inthemfelves to drive them to 
Chrift, the only Deliverer from it. 6. Yea,they 
all ferve fome Idol, lurking in their Heart, they 
yield obedience to foni£ reigning Lull which 

they 



BOOK I. [ ^ 9 6 ] CHAP. XL 

they will not forfake, for which caufcChrift fore- 
tells, That He will declare them to be but Wor- 
kers of Iniquity, Matth. 7. 23 

ThcCaufes of this Evil, are, r. The Igno- 
rance ofthe Law and the utter Inability, yea, A- 
verfenefs of Nature to be fubjedt to it, the know- 
ledge whereof might make Men live all their 
days in a loathing of themfelves, and cut off 
all hope of obtaining Righteoufnefs by the Law. 
2.. The Ignorance of that dear bought Righte- 
oufnefs of Chri(t,and of the Riches of His Grace, 
offering to impute His Satisfaction to every Self- 
condemned Sinner,who fhall fly toHim & accept 
His Offer. 3. The Ignorance of the neceiiity 
of the bringing forth the Fruits of Fa^th in Love, 
and ftudy of new Obedience and San&ification, 
by the Furniture of Chrift, without which no Man 
fhall fee God. 4. The taking of a prefumptuous 
dead Faith, in (lead of that true juilifying Faith 
which layeth hold on Chrilt and worketh by 
Love. The taking of a vain ground lefs Hope 
for that lively Hope which purifieth both the 
Heart and external Converfation alfo. 5. The 
comparing of themfelves either with the worft fort 
of vile Sinners, or with fuch as are like to them- 
felves, or with the Saints in their groft Failings, 
not judging themfelves according to the Law. 

The ufe to be made of thisDo&;rine,isFirfl,to 
ftir us up to take notice of that power of the Soul 
called Conference, which God hath put in every 
Man to obferve all the Man's Words, Deeds 

and 



BOOK I. [ 297 ] CHAR XI. 

and Intentions, and to compare them with the 
Law and Will of God, lo far as it is ihformed, 
and to Accufe or Excufe, Condemn or Ablblve, 
Smite or Comfort the Man as it findeth Caufe, 
that we fuffcr not our own Confcience to flecp, 
but fet it on work whilft it is time, that we 
may know how all Matters do Hand between God 
and us. 

Secondly, That we inform the Confcience well 
from die Scripture,not only concerning the Law 
and Covenant of Works, whereby we may 
know how guilty we are of manifold Sins, and 
how impoffible it is for us to be juftified by our 
Works, or to efcape Condemnation,butalfo con- 
cerning the Gofpel and Covenant of gracious Re- 
conciliation by Faith in Jefus Chrift,and concern- 
ing the Covenant of Redemption, whereupon the 
Covenant of Grace offered in Chrift is grounded. : 

Thirdly, The we make due and orderly Ap- 
plication of thefe Covenants, that the Confcience 
may always be furmfhed with matter of Humi- 
liation,and held on in theExercife of Repentance, 
and not only keeped from Defperation, but aifo 
may be furniflied with Grounds of good Hope 
to be Saved, through the Grace of our Lord Je- 
fus, who hath purchafed Remiflion of Sins and 
Imputation of His Righteoufnefs, to every hujm- 
bled Sinner flying to Him for Grace. 

Fourthly , That being ingrafted in Chrift by 
Faith, we, fey way of Thankfulnefs, ftudy in the 
Furniture of His Spirit, to live IJolilyJuftly, and 

So* 



BOOK I. [ z 9 8 ] CHAP. XI. 

Soberly;and that whatfocver meafure of Sancti- 
fication we attain unto, wc beware to fall back 
to that deadly Error of feeking Juftification 
before God by our Works, whereunto we are 
naturally inclined : For, upon this Rock the 
flour and mod fhining Profeflbrs in Ifrael, after 
the Flefli, made fhipwrak of their Salvation,/?^. 
9. 32. Ifrael which followed after the Law ofR/gh- 
teoufnefsjoath not attained unto the Law $f Righte- 
ofnefs, wherefore becaufe they fought knot by Faith, 
hut as it were hy the Works of the Law. And, Rom. 1 o. 
3. For they being ignor ant of God s Right eou/nefs, and 
going about to ejlablifh thetr own Righteoiifnefsjjave 
not Jubmited themf elves to the Right eoufnefs of God. 
Unto this Error of feeking Righteoufnds by our 
Works, after entering in the way of Juitiftcatioii 
by Grace,we are all naturally inclined; for, the 
Covenant of Works is fo engraven in all Adam's 
Children, Do this and live, that hardly can we 
renounce this way of Juftification, and howfoever 
it be impoffible to attain Righteoufnefs this way, 
yet hardly can we fubmit our felves to the Righ- 
teoufnefs by Faith in Chrift, which not only the 
Experience of Ifrael after the Flefli maketh rnani- 
feft,but alio the Experience of the Galatiam "lets 
us fee ; for,they having once outwardly renoun- 
ced Juftification by Works, and embraced the 
Covenant of gracions Reconciliation by Faith 
injefus.did turn about for a time,to feek Juftifi- 
cation by the Works oftheLaw,and were on the 
way of falling from Grace and Communion with 

Chrift 



BOOK I. [ 299 1 CHAP. XI. 

Chrift. And the Experience of Papifts doth fhew 
the fame; for, whatfoever'they profefs concern- 
ing Faith m Chrift, yet they abhor Juftification 
by Chrift's imputed Righteoufnefs, and do blas- 
pheme that way as a meer conceit of Men, and 
a pautatitious or only imaginary Righteoufc 
hefe, and do feek to eftablifh their own Righ- 
"teoufnefs,and to be juftified,not only before Men 
but alfo before God, by the Merits of their 
own and other Men's Works and Sufferings; the 
Imputation whereof they can fell for Money, in 
the midft of their Blafpheming the imputation of 
ChriftsRighteoufnefs.Whatcan befaid for aThief 
condemned to die for his Faults, and redeemed 
by a potent Man,upon condition that he fhould 
be the donieftick Servant of the Redemer, to 
work his work all his Life- time, and live upon 
his Allowance, and fo never be neceflitated to 
fteal any more ? if the ranfomed Thief fhould 
after fteal his Maflers Goods and make himfelf 
a flock purfe whereupon he thought he might 
live, & loofe himfelf from his Redeemer's Grace, 
and live upon his own finding, were he not wor- 
thy, upon the finding out of his Thifts and other 
Faults, to be left in the Hands of Juftice, to die 
according to his defervings? And what coukl 
be faid for a Tenent,labouring a parcel of Ground 
of his Landf-lords for a yearly Farm-duty ,by his 
own mifcarriage falling to beggary, if he fhould 
be taken unto the free Table of his Landf-lord, 

and 



BOOKT. f 300 ] CHAP. XL 

and trufted with the fame parcel of Ground to 
be laboured for his Mailer's ufe, if he fliould in- 
terrertthe Fruits of thatGround,and being weary 
of his Mafter's Bounty and Grace, fliould feck 
to be frcd of his Mafter's Service, and to labour 
the ground for himfelf, for payment of Rent? 
if upon die finding out of his Thift, and not pay- 
ment of his Rent, he fliould be caft in Prifon, 
did he not defer ve tb be dealt with according to 
Juflice, who would not live by Grace* So may 
be faid of the Man, who fliall turn from juftifi- 
cation by free Grace!, to feek Juftification by his 
Works. 

The Fifth and Lafl Ufe of this Do&rine is f 
That to the intent we may not Abfolveour felves 
without God's Allowance, we ftudy tb make 
our Calling and Election fure, by endeavouring 
to walk in the fenfe of our Unworthinefs and 111— 
defervings, and renouncing all confidence in any 
thing without Chrift, to rely on Him for Righ- 
teoufnefs and Life-eterna], and by Faith in Him 
draw Spirit and Life from Him, for furnifliing 
us unto new Obedience : For he is the Jullified 
Man, approven of God, who hath no confidence in 
the Flefi?, and rejoiceth in Jefus Chrifi, and wor- 
fbippeth Sod in the Spirit. Philip. 3. 3. 



THE 



[ 3<* I 

... ■. 



': 



THE 

SECOND BOOK 

CHAP, t 

OfConfideratiom to he premifed. 

HITHERTO thcSicknefTes of the Con- 
fcience of the Unregenerat Man are fpo- 
kento, and this was needful, to the 
end, that we might fhcw how Regene- 
ration is either altogether kept off, or hindred 
from growing where it is begun. And becaufe 
many of thefe Sicknefles, which deftroy many 
of the Sons of Adam, cleave to the Regenerat 
Man, and though they do not reign, nor altoge- 
ther prevail over him, yet do moleft and vex himj 
and hinder his comfortable walking toward his 
everlafting Bleflednefs. Now we come to fpeak, 
Firft, in this Book, of thefe Cafes of the Confci- 
ence of theManRcgenerat,whichdo brangle,and 
bring in queliion his ftate in Grace,and make him 
doubt whether he be a Man tranflated out of the 
ftate of Nature, out of the Kingdom of Satan, or 
not. And Next, of thefe Cafes that concern his 
Condition in the ftate of Grace in the following 
Bopk, 

As 



BOOK II. [ 301 V CHAP. I 

As to the firft fort of Cafes, which concern 
the Regenerat Man's ftate, fome Confiderations 
muft be premifed, for making Particulars after- 
wards more clear. 

i. In the Queftion of this, or that Man's Re- 
generation, or his being in the ftate of Grace, it 
is all one to queftion whether he be Born again, 
or be effectually Called, or endued with laving 
Faith, or be a Juftified Man,or be Reconciled to 
God, or be an Adopted Child? AndintheAnfwer 
of this Queftion, let it be proven, that he is any 
of thefe, and it is proven alfo, that he is all thefe : 
For albeit thefe Denominations, in their formal 
Conceptions in the abftra£t,may bediftinguihed, 
yet upon the Matter in the conceit they fail upon 
the fame individual Perfbn altogether, becaufe 
it is impoffible to prove a Man to be Regenerat, 
but he mult be proven alfo a true Believer in 
Chrift, a Man Reconciled to God, a Man jufti- 
fied, and an Adopted Child. 

2. It is neceflary therefore, for proving a Man 
tabe Regenerat, to know the right Delcription 
of the Regenerat Man,whichis given by the A- 
poftle, Phil. 3. 3. We are the Circumcifion, which 
worjhip God in the Spirit, and re Joyce in Jefis Chrift, 
and have no confidence in the Fie fh. Wherein the 
Apoftle holdeth forth the truly Regenerat circum- 
cifed in Heart. 1. He is not Sinlefs; but fofen- 
fible of his Sinfulnefs, as he hath no confidence in 
himfclf, nor any thing elfe in himfelf. 2. He is 
not free of Accufations or Teneations and Doubts, 



BOOK II. [ 303 ] CHAR I 

but he flyeth toChrift for Righteoufnefs. 3. 
He is not an idle and unfruitful Branch, but a 
Worlhiper of God in Spirit and Truth. 1. He is 
burdened with Sin. 2. He cometh toChrift for 
Relief. 3. HeputsonChrifts Yoke, Matth. ir. 
z8, 29. If a Man have thele three Properties 
jointly in him, he is a Regenerat Man, and 
may defend his Intereft fin the ftate of Grace) 
and Right to Righteoufnefs and eternal Life 
through Jefus Chrift. 

3. Divine Operations and Saving Graces which 
accompany Salvation, fuch as are Faith, Repen- 
tance unto Life, Hope, Chriftian Love to God 
and Men for God's Caufe,erfeduai Vocation Ju- 
ftification, Reconciliation, Adoption go together 
in time by God's Gift, but one of them goeth 
before another in order of Nature ; for, effe- 
ctual Calling gocth before Fa:th, and Faith go- 
eth before Hope, and before Charity or Love. 
Again, thele Graces which are given to the Re- 
deemed Child of God jointly, in refped of time, 
do not ihew themfelves in their evidence alike 

* fbonin time, nor do they equally manifeft them- 
felves when they do appear in time. And (b the 
Evidences of Repentance may be difcerned in 
not a fe\v Converts; before Faith in Chrift do 
fhew it felf in them clearly. So alio Love to 
God and His Saints oft-times may be difcerned 

t in a Regenerat Man, before he himfeif dare af- 
firm any thing of his Faith in Chrift. 

t7 4. Al- 



BOOK II. [ 504 ] CHAP. I 

4. Albeit there be many RegeneratPerfons,w ho 
for the prefent time cannot perceive in themfelvcs 
any undoubted Signs of their Converfion ; yet it 
is certain alio that there be many, who,to their 
own unfpeakable comfort,are allured of their Re- 
generation, and that they are tranflated from 
Death to Life, and that they have received the 
Spirit of Adoption, and Earneft of eternal Life,as 
is pointed out in the Experience of the Epbefijws, 
Chap. 1. 14. And this is certain alfo.that all who 
are fled to Chrilt for refuge. iliould by all I /leans 
labour to make their Calling and Election clear, 
and certain tothemielves, 1 Pet. 1. 10. And to 
this purpofe wc are commanded ta examine our 
felves, and try whether we be in the Faith or 
riot,whcther Chrift by His Spirit be in us or not, 
2, Cor. 13. 5. For otherwife, except a Convert 
know certainly the Bleilediiefs of his own State, 
and that he ftandeth in Grace and Favour with 
God, it is not poflible for him to give Hearty 
Thanks to God for the change of his State, from 
being an Enemy, to be made a reconciled Subject 
and Child of God. It is not podible for him to 
rejoyce in the Lord, or let chearfully himfelf to 
lerveGod, or comfortably call on God, as a Fa- 
ther to him in Chrift : Wherefore, all who in 
the fenieof their Sins and fear ofdeferved Wrath 
are fled for Refuge unco Chrift, ihould deal by 
Prayer earneftly with God, that He would gra- 
cioufly grant unto them His Spirit, by whole o- 
perauonin them, they may kno.v the Saving 

Grace* 



BOOK II. [ 30H CHAR I 

Graces which He hath freely beftovved upon them 
of which Gift of the Holy Spirit the Apoftledoth 
{peak, i Cor. z. n. 

5-. The knowledge of a Man's own Regene- 
ration, hath many degrees of clearnefs and af- 
furance, by reafon of the variety of Conditions 
wherein a Man truely Converted may be: For, 
rriany Doubts may rife in the Man Regenerat, 
which may darken his fight, and hinder the af- 
furancc ofSaving»Grace granted unto him, where- 
of fundry Caufes maybe found, and in fpecial 
thefe Four among others. 1. In a Man illume 
hat and renewed by the Holy Shirit,there remains 
a great deal of Ignorance, much doubting mixed 
with Faith, by reafon of unskilfulnefs of the Con- 
vert to examine and difcern this blefled change 
made in him, where through that cometh to pafs 
in many young Converts, which will be {ben in 
Infants, who have a Soul indeed, but do not 
know or perceive that they have a Soul till they 
come to fome Years of Defcretion ; yea, many 
found Chriftians, are oft-times at a (land a- 
bout their Regeneration, and know 7 not what 
to make of their Faith or Repentance, efpe- 
cially when they feel the power of the Body 
of Death, the ftrength of natural Corruption 
ih themfelves, and great indifpofition for any 
fpiritual exercife ; they are forced with ths 
Apoftle to cry, Mifer able Man that I am, who 
Jhall deliver me ? Rom. 7. 24. mean time 
for weaknefe of their Faith, they arc not 

U x able 



BOOK. IF. [ 305 1 CHAP, h 

able at the firffc to wrelVea ^ainfldifcouragement, 
and to come up unto the Apoftle's thanking God 
through Chritt 1. By the Tentation of Satan 
oft times the Perfwafion of Holy Men isdarkned, 
fo as chey cannot fee the Evidences of their own 
Regeneration clearly : For,£atan fets himfelf to 
vex the Saints who are delivered from his king- 
dom and bonds, whom albeit he know that he 
cannot deftroy them; yet he will not ccafe to 
trouble them, that at lead he may make them 
lome way unfit for God's Service,and marr their 
cheerfulnefsin His Service ; and becaufe he fear- 
eth harm from them unto his kingdom, by their 
dealing with the Unconverted to repent their Sins, 
and to turn unto God, therefore he finds them 
work at home in their own Bofom, and puts 
them to defend themfelves, and to forbear to 
invade hisfubje&s, till they befetled themfelves. 
3. Oft-times the Lord is offended by the Sins of 
the Regenerat, and fpecially by their grois Tranl- 
greflions, for which His Spirit being grieved, 
doth for a time ceafe from comforting them, and 
doth not bear wltnefs with their Spirits that they 
arc the Children of God, as He hath formerly ufed 
to do. 4. Oft-times the Lord by differing Doubts 
to arife in their Hearts, uleth to try and exer- 
cife the Faith of His Children, and thereby to 
ftir them up to the purfuiugof the Duties of 
Piety and Righteoufhefs more vigorously and 
fincerely, that after victory obtained over thefe 
TentationSjthey may be more confirmed in their 
Faith,and more diligent in His Obedience. 6 It 



BOOK H. [ 307 ] CHART. 

6. It may com? to pa s, that while the true 
Convert doth molt doubt of his own Regenera- 
tion, that the work of God's Tpecial Grace may 
be obferved m him, and clearly feen by others 
more experienced in the ways of God, and en- 
dued with the Spirit of Difcretion. The realbn 
whereof is, becaufe howfoever the weak Con- 
vert, and Child of Light, walking in darknefe 
of Tentation and Delation, cannot difcern his 
own blefled State, yet there may appear, and be 
perceived in him fuch Signs and undoubted Evi- 
dences of Saving Grace, that the prudent be- 
holder of him under his fad Exercife, may in 
the judgment of Difcretion and Chanty, declare 
his Rightcoufnefs,and him for his ftate to be in 
Grace and Favour with God. In thefe two 
Difci pies going loEmam, Luk. 24. Saving Faith 
was not extinguiflied, albeit they were driven 
to fulpedfc themfelves to have been miftaken, 
when they once believed that Chrift was the 
promifed Saviour ; for, in that fame time,there 
appeared in them evidentTokens of their unfained 
Love to ChrifbFor, while they are troubled With 
fufpicion of their being miftaken about Chrift, 
they are very fad and forrowful,and wercregrat- 
ing the Sufferings of Chrift, and were gather- 
ing what Arguments they could for fupporting 
their Faith,whereby their dying Faith might be 
fupported by Conference about this Matter, 
laying forth their Doubts and Tentations one 
to another. 

U 3 The 



BOOK ft [ 308 ] CHART. 

7 .The precife time of begun Regeneration's not 
always obferved nor known, either by the Rege- 
nerat Man himfelf or by Beholders of his way, 
as Experience maketh evident in many,who from 
their Infancy are brought up in the Exercifes of 
true Religion, in whole Converfion no notable 
change can be obferved. In thofe the words of 
Chrift in part are verified, The Kingdom of Hea- 
ven cometh not with obfervation. Such Perfons 
when they begin to examine them{elves,whether 
they be Regenerat, whether they be in Chrift, 
and at what timcthey were Converted,they can 
neither determinatly condefceiid upon thp time 
of their Converfion, nor can they confidently 
fpeak of their Converfion, till after fundry Trials 
and Experiences they can gather Proofs of their 
Sincerity from fuch Signs, Effects and Marks,of 
the Work of Saving Grace in them, as may prove 
that Chriithath dwelt in them of before. 

8. Aibeit Regeneration be of the fame kind, 
fpece and definition, in all the Regenerat, yet iz 
doth admit fundry accidental Differences, when 
the Converfion of fuch and fuch Perfons is com- 
pared ; For,{ome do not flay long in the ftraits of 
Regeneration, or New-birth, but within a fliort 
f pace of time they are both wounded and heal- 
ed, are both caftendown and raifed up again, are 
both flain by the Law and quickened by the Go- 
(pel : Of this fort we have a pad Proof in fo.me 
thcufand Converts, Jti. x. who by one Sermon 
pr two were Converted to the Faith pf Chrift, 



BOOK IT. [ 309 ] CHAP. I. 

and FellowJhip with the Church. On the other 
Hand Experience of many doth lhew,they have 
been under the Spirit of Bondage along time,bc- 
forethey could receive the Confolations of the 
Gofpel, Heb. z. if. Some in the beginning of 
their Converfion are handled very tenderly, and 
afterward fall in hard Exercifes of Mind, as we 
may fee in David, who in his youth, while he 
was keeping hi s Fathers Sheep, did pafs the time 
m holy Songs, and playing on his Harp, but 
afterward he was more iharply exercifed, and 
much afHi&ed frome time to time with the fenfe 
of Divine Wrath. Some in forrow and much 
weeping do follow Chnft, and ftudy to promove 
His Kingdom : Such a one was Timothy, whom 
the ApoUie exhorteth to admit a larger meafure 
of Confolation allowed unto him by the Lord, 
that he might be the more cheerful and coura- 
gious in the Warfare vvhercunto he was called, 
x Tim. 1. 4. Another of this fore was Hemanxhz 
Ezratte who (Pfai. 83.) declareth that from his 
youth up he was fo keeped under Terror, as 
he was ready to die under difcouragment. And 
in the experience of this holy Man, we have a 
Proof of what was holden forth in the preceed- 
ing Confideration, to wit, that Regeneration 
may be begun in a Man, and weli promoved 
before either himfelf or others can welidifccrn it: 
For, of them who are keeped under the Law and 
Spirit of Bondage, it is hard determinate to 

jucge 



BOOK II. [ 310 ] CHAP. i. 

judge, before Faith in Chrifl begin to appear in 
them, whether their Exercife be the fpecial work 
of the Holy Spirit of Regeneration, or not : For 
as it may come topafs.that the Spirit of Fear and 
Bondage may for a time work, and go no further 
than to Convid: a Man, and not go on to Con- 
vert him; fo alfo it may come to pafs, that there 
be fome wreftling of Faith lying under-footin 
the midft of Terrors, not perceived for a while; 
of which wrcftling none can well give out Sen- 
tence,that it is a wrcftling of Saving Faith,before 
Faith get fome vi&ory over Tentations, and 
break forth in fome evident effects. In which 
cafe it is very needful warily and circumfpe&ly 
to apply the Do&rine of the Gofpel,fo as the af- 
fiided Soul may be fupported with hopes of a 
gracious:Qut-gate ; for, the work of the Law 
humbling the Sinner, is a fair Call to come to 
Chrift, and a Meflenger fent by Chrift to bring 
him up, Gal. 3. 24. 

9. Aibeicthe Regencrat Man, inrefped: of the 
ftate of his Perfon, by ftaading in Grace and Fa- 
vour with God,f.xeti and unmovable as the Apo- 
ftle doth fliew u$,Row. 5-. i 5 i, 3. partly, becaufe 
the love' of God' manifeftcd to the Believer in 
Chrift is unchangeable; and partly, becaufe the 
Covenant cf Grace through Chrift is an everla- 
fling Covenant, Ifa. 55. 3. and partly, becaufe 
the Saving Gifts and Calling of God are fuch,as 
God will never repent Him to have beftowed 
fhem, Rom. 11/29. yet in refpedofhis con- 

di- 



BOOK. II. [ 3T1 ] CHAP. i. 

dicion, the Regcncrat Man is fubjcd: to many 
changes in his Life and ConverfatiOn,in the Dip- 
pofition of his Mind and Affcclions, and in the 
excrcife of his gracious Habitcs, and in the fenfe 
and obfervation of the Grace of God in him, and 
Favour of God toward him : For, it may come 
to pa(s,yca,and oft-times dotli come to pafs, that 
Men who are Regenerated in the date of Grace, 
which is a notable good {Tate, may be in a very 
evil condition, in a miferable and deplorable difc 
pofition of Heart, as befel the Church of Epbe- 
fus, Sardis and Laodicea. And it may be alio, 
that Rcgenerat Ferfons after their Confciences 
are wakened, and they do perceive ths miferalxe 
and finful condition of their Aifeclions and Con- 
verfation, that no fmall Doubts arife in their 
Hearts, whether their flate in Grace be real or not, 
which Doubts will evani(h,when after the renew- 
ing of their Repentance, their condition is chang- 
ed to the better : For, Chrift pre-occupieth this 
TentationXpeaking to the Church of Sardis and 
Laodicea, counlelJing them to ftrengthen the 
thing that remaincth, which was ready todye,and 
not to doubt of His Love toward them, Revel, 
z, and 3. 

ic. Thefe Tentations whereby the Regenerat 
Man is troubled,and tempted to doubt whether 
he be m the (late of Grace,fhouldbediftinguifhed 
and difecrned trom aftual Doubting: For, there 
may be a Temptation unto Doubting without 
a yielding unto the Temptation.as we fee in drift 

our 



BOOK II. [ 3 i* ] chap. r;j 

our Lord, whom the Devil durft tempt to doubt ( 
whether He was the Son of God, but His Holy 
Heart could not admit fueh a Temptation. And 
the Apoftie ( Eph. 6. ir, 12, &c. ) doth warn 
the Saints, that our Ad verfary Satan ufeth to 
throw fiery Darts at th^ Children of God ; 
which firy and poifonable Darts, the Regenerat 
Man fhould not meddle with nor finger them, 
but by the fhield of Faith, with all (peed,quench 
and excinguifli them. But when a probable 
Reafon is joined with the Temptation, and the 
Temptation doth appear to be very reasonable, 
and when there is a Fear, that the Tentation fhall 
be yielded unto, except the Scruple be removed, 
then let the Temptation be examined and brought 
to the form of Reafon or Sylogifm, that the 
flrength of it being tried to be null, it maybe 
rejected; or let the Temptation be communica- 
ted to a prudent Friend or Paftor, who may dis- 
cover the Sophiftry of thcTemptation; for,if the 
Temptation fhall be flighted and not difcufled, 
albeit it lye quiet for a time, yet it will return 
again and raife more trouble and vexation to the 
Confcienee, then it did before. 

11. lnanfwering of Doubts and Temptations 
tending to weaken Faith, it is needful to obferve 
and flic w an ufual Stratagem of Satan, whereby 
he doth multiply and heap together a number of 
Doubts ; and after he hath fuggefted on doubt, 
prefently doth iuggeft on the back of that ano- 
ther, aad after that, another,\ybereby he marreth 

?he 



BOOK I. [ 3H 1 CHAR r. 

the anfwcring of the firft Doubtrwhich from the 
Word of God, either immediatlv, or by tome 
faithful Friend or Minifter, is offered for Solu- 
tion thereof. By this Mean, Sacan endeavours tha; 
the mind of the affli&ed Perfon may, at one 
time, both be turned off from taking notice of 
the Anfwer offered, and be taken up wholly 
with the confideration of the new fugge fled Doubt, 
fo that the Anfwer to the new Doubt hath no 
place, becaufe the affli&ed Party doth not take 
heed thereto. In this cafe, both the Party aP- 
Aided, and the Party offering Confolation,muft 
hold to the firft Doubt, and not fuffer any other 
new Doubt to have place, till afatisfa&ory An- 
fwer be given to the firft Doubt, and after that 
let every Objection, moved by the Party afrli&ed, 
be anfwered one after another in order. 

i*. Seing ever}' Doubt, whereby the Regene- 
rat Performs troubled, doth tend either to weaken 
Faith in Chrift.or to hinder the bringing forth of 
the Fruits of Faith, let no Anfwer to any Doubt 
of this kind be efteemed fufficicnt, except it 
lead the afflidted Perfon unto Chrffi, teaching 
him to humble himfelf before God ; and being 
brought low in his own Eyes, to lay hold by 
Faith on Jefus Chrift the only Redeemer, and 
Relief from Sin and Mifery ; and after laying 
hold on the Phyfician, to requeft for the 
Remedy of that Evil, which hath moved and 
given ftrength to the Doubt ; For, Chrift 



is 



BOOK II. [ 3 i 4 j CHAP. I. 

is the End both of the Law and of every fpirituaf 
Exercifc.-For, the enjoying of fuch and Such mo- 
ral Duties,whercby un-skiiful Pfrj ficians uictoo- 
ver-chargedifea(edConfciences,co!nmanouig the 
afflicted Party in die firfl p!ncc to go about fuch 
and fuch Duties, and the gxemfe of fuch and 
fuch Vertues, as may remove the Evil which 
gave ground to the Doubt, can never avail the 
difeafed Perfbn,exccpt he be led firfl: unto Chrift 
forRemiffion of Sin andAcceptation of his Pcrfon, 
that in Him Power to do thefe Duties may be 
obtained, and by His Spirit moral Precepts may 
be quickened: For,if thefe Precepts be prefled u- 
pon the difeafed without Chrift, they can do no 
more but detain the affli&ed in Self-confidence, 
and make htm hope in vain, that he may,or can 
by his own work over-come the Evil felt in him, 
or that he can by himfelf, attain to that Good 
which he conceiveth neceflar for loofing of his 
Doubt;but let him go ro Chrift for Remiffion of 
Sin, and then for Strength to go about the Duty. 
1 3. Becauie almoft in all Coles of Confcience 
which pertain to the Itate of theRcgenerat Man, 
fome Grace or Chrifrian Vertue is pitched upon 
3nd called in quefiion, whether it be in him or 
not.heed muft be taken that E\ angelick Graces, 
Vertues or Actions, be not weighted in the Bal- 
lance of the Mora! Law and Covenant of Works, 
wherein nothing hath weight which cometh 
fhort of abfolute Perfection of perfonal Obedi- 
ence; foria the ftricl judgment of God and the 

Con* 



SOOKII. [3*H CHART. 

3onfcience,according co the law of work^no mccr 
Man,nor any A&ion of Man cm ftand, Pf i^oi 
2. for, there are fo many Imperfection andBle- 
miflies i.i the Saints and theirbeft Works, being 
compared with die perfect Rule of Righteoufncfs 
by the Law, that whatfoever luftre or appear- 
ance of good may be in a Work, it is blecked? 
and made to hide it's Face before the Law : Bur, 
let the tender Buds of new Obedience and Fruits 
of Faith, be examined by the Grace of the Gofpel, 
which judgeth of the begun Obedience of the 
Believer in Chrift, according to the Sincerity and 
Uprightnefs of the Man aiming at Conformity 
to the Law, howfhort (bevcrhe come of his aim, 
and of the fpiritual Perfcdion of the Law, and 
it will be taken for new Obedience. It is true, 
the Evangel requireth, that a Man fled to Chrift 
for Juftification,and reconciled to God by Faith in 
Chrift, fhould fet himfelfto work the works pre- 
fcribed in the moral Law, for the Glory of God, 
and fhould aim: at the exafi: Obedience of all the 
Commands ; yet, the Gospel doth notrej^ft a, 
good work for the Defers, Imperfefhons and 
Blemiftics thereof, but accepterh and taketh in 
good part the firft Fruits and Buds of new Obe- 
dience, and doth fofter the tender and fmall Be- 
ginnings,that they may grow and increafe. And 
the reafonis, becaufe the Gofpel doth not teach 
ustofcek the Juftifeanon oFour Perfons before 
God by Works, but by Faith in Chdft, and then 
teachethus to ieek the Judication of our Faith 

be- 






BOOK II. I 31(f) CHAR 

before Men in our own and others Confcience, 
by the fincere endeavour of new Obedience, 
And therefore, 

14 While we are about the cure of the Wounds 
of the Confcience, and ftrengthening of Faith, 
we muft on the one hand take heedjeft we fofter 
preemption, and hinder either the Excrcife of 
Repentance, or doing Diligence in following Du- 
ties ; For,Chriftiari Graces do not impede, but 
help and ftrengtheti one another, if they be real 
and kindly ,becaufe they mud flow from the fame 
Fountain of the Spirit of San&ification, and do 
run toward the fame end, which is the Glory of 
God: and on the other hand, wemuft take heed 
lelt we prefs the Exercife of Repentance,as it \tere, 
out of ourownStrength,or the pra&ice of Duties, 
fo as we hinder the Exercife of Faith in Chrift,Who 
is that exalted Prince to give Repentance,and is 
the Author and Finifher of Faith. Let us focry 
up the imputed Righteoufnefs of Chrift, that we 
negled: not to prefs the Regenerat Man (freely 
justified by Grace) to bring forth the Fruits of 
faith, and to follbw hard after the growth of 
Sandtification, without which no Man {hall fee 
the Face of God; and let us fo extol the Cove- 
nant of Grace and Freedom of the Believer from 
the Covenant of W r orks, that we negledt not 
to keep up the Authority of the Moral Law 
and the Commands thereof, as the perpetual 
Rule of new Obedience, the ufe whereof is 
very profitable ; in the whole Courfe of a 

Qui- 



BOOK II. [ 317 1 CHAP, t; 

Chriftian Life, to hold forth the Duty of De- 
livers in Chrift, and to fhew unto diem by their 
fliort-coming in Duties, the Poifon and Power 
of Corruption remaining in the Saints, and to 
make them fenfible of the neceflity of flying dai- 
ly to that imputed Righteoufnefs by Faith irt 
Chrift, and of drawing Strength from Chrift 
to bring forth more abundant Fruits, where- 
by Chrift fhall be more and more precious in 
our Eyes and be acknowledged abfolutly ne- 
ceflar for our Juftification, San&ification and 
Salvation. 

1 j. When queflion is made concerning Chri- 
ftian Vermes andOperations of the holy Spirit in 
us, the order of God's working held forth to 
us in Scripture, is carefully to be marked by us; 
which is, that fenfeof Sin fhould go before Faith 
in Chrift: ; for, the Law is a Pedagogue to Chrift, 
for, He came not to call the Righteous, but Sinners 
to Repentance, Matth. 9. 13. And Faith in Chrift 
goeth before the Fruits of Faith, and the Fruits 
of Faith before the fenfible Approbation of them, 
and Approbation of the Fruits by Scripture goeth 
before the fenfible Sealing of the Believer, and 
the quieting of the Confcicnce in its Approbation 
of what the Scripture appro vcth ; for afcer we 
have Believed, we come to be Sealed, Eptief. 
1. 13. Now, for the not obierving this order, 
many real Chriftiansdo make unto themfeivesa 
very uncomfortable Life : for,albeitthey be con- 
vinced of Sin,& humbled in thefenfe of their own 

In- 



BOOK II. [ 318 ] CHAP. I. 

Inability to help themfelves, and are fled to 
Chrift for Pardon and Help, and do lead a Life 
b!amelefs,yet do they unhappily fufpend the ac- ,' 
knowledgirgoftheWorkof Faith beftowed upon 
them, and do diiquier themfelves, io as they can- 
not reft on Chrift, but do quarrel the Reality of 
their Faith, nil they lhall feel and perceive, with 
Approbation of their Confcience, fuch and fuch 
Fruits ofFaith in themfelves,& that in fuch a rrieaf- 
fureasthey have fore-imagined to be the neceilar 
Evidences of Faith ; yea, and they refufe to ac- 
count themfelves Peribns juftiried, becaufc they 
cannot perceive fuch mature Fruits in themfelves, 
as they conceive muft not only be, but be ac- 
knowledged a! fo to be, in the juftified Perfon, 
before he can lay hold on Juftiikation. Such 
Perfons do, in eife&dnvert the order which they 
jhould obferve; for, when it were their part to fly 
unt6 Chrift the only Mediator ,becaufe they come 
fhort of new Obedience, and becaufe they ate 
leaden with Sin, that in Sift they might have 
God reconciled to them, and by His Spirit, 
pouring in of His Grace in their Souls, to 
make them more Holy, they take another and 
contrary courfe, by fufpending their Faith upon 
their Works, and do exacT: of themfelves Works 
before Faith, and fo do weaken their own Faith, 
and hinder it to bring forth fuch Fruits as they 
do require. It is reafon indeed, to prove our 
Faith by our Works, and it is juft, that fuch a 
Faich be accounted dead, which is not accompa- 

nv- 



BOOK II. [ 319 ] CHAP. I. 

nicd with thepurpofc & endeavour to live hoi Iv, 
juttly,& fobcrly;butitisagainft all Rea(r>fi & E- 
quity to condemn weak Faith accompanied with 
the purpofeof a ncwLifc^s if it were noF;iich.be- 
caufeic hath not as yet brought for thfo fair 8c ful- 
ly" ripeFruits as the weak believer would It were 
their wifdom,when they perceive fuch imporency 
to do what is good, & fuchftrcngth ofthcBody of 
Death in them, to fly unto thcRedeemcr (o much 
the more, and inHim to feekRemiffion of Sin.and 
Strength to bring forth goodFruits,and to befucfc- 
ing Juice andSap out of Him, as the trueVine;For 
if we come to Him & abide inHim. wc fltal b i nig 
forth muchFruit J0/.M 5- 4. $. For,Faith inChrifhin 
order ofNature goeth before good Works;for only 
they who come to Chrift and abide in H m, do 
bring forth aboundant Fruit.and notthey, who 
upon the apprehenfion of their want of fruits do 
loofe or flacken their grip of Faith .& »pon difcou. 
ragmentarc ready to depart from the living God. 
16. The like Wifdom is required in dealing 
With the Conferences of Men coticcrninglhe pre- 
paratory Difpofitions of fuch as may confidently 
come untoChriftto bejuftified, £a*u3ified 2nd 
Saved; for albeit it be true that all that come ro 
Chrift, ought to come in the fenfe of riictr 5m 
and acknowledgement of Wrath $nd Death de- 
ferred for their S1HS5 ought to corns with Con/ 
trition of Heart, with godlySorrow for their Sid, 
and a humble Renunciation of &\\ Corxfid^ndHnl 
jfhemfelYes; yet mult not fuchperfonsas do ntii 



x a 



BOOKIL [ 310 ] CHAP.l 

fatisfis thcmfclveainthc meafure or finccrity of 
inch preparatory Difpofitions it* thcmfelves, be 
kfeped bzck or debarred (torn coming toCh rift, 
becaufs they not only want, as they conceive. both 
thcHumiiiation & fdrrow of //cart for Sin, & fear 
ofwrath required in fuch asha vc accefs urttoChrift; 
but alf* do perceive in themfcl ves fuch 2?!indnefs 
of Min-d& vanity thereof, fuch ftupidity ofCon- 
fcience & fluhborn&fs of a proud heart as is not fit 
fas they conceivejtobe received byChrift.Orfir to 
be comforted by bxmjfuchPctfonS I fay arc not to 
be forthwith debarred from coming torhcThronc 
of Grace; for oft times Sincerity of Conviction, 
Compunction, andHumiliation is to be found in 
fufji as arc difpleafed with their own shortcoming 
ioiuch preparatoryDifpofition$,more than in ma- 
ny others who make a fairer (how and profcflSon 
©f their godly Sorrow and Humiliation, and arc 
well pleaujd with thcmfelves in that refper% 
We mud bewary alfo while we require Sorrow 
and HuraiUation,atfd other like prcparatOryDiC- 
pofitioiis in them who may come unto Chtift, 
left wefccrerly import find .infmuate a forr. of 
Merit to be in fuch Difpofitions, fo as if he that 
ck>r& net pared ye himfelf.thus qualified, could 
ixpe& no good at Cbtifl's Hands, except he 
have in his Hand fuch preparatory Difpofitions 
as if it were a Price . of purchafing ^ddrels to 
Chriil. Buries; us bold rhisfaft, that the more 
poor and empty a Man be in his o wo Eyes, he 
he to draw the more near unto the Riches 

of 



BOOK II. [ 311 ] CHAP. L 

of Grace in Chrift, becaufe in Him only arc to 
be found all the Treafuresof every Saving Grace 
and preparatory Difpofitions for receiving there- 
of ; He is that exalted Prince Who giveth Repen- 
tance unto Iftael, Aft. 5. 31. He is the Author 
and Finftier of Faith, unto Whom all they who in 
thefenfe of their want of Repentance and Faith, 
do figh m themfelves, ought arid fafcly may 
comc,that they may have from Him a more am- 
ple meafure of Faith and Repentance. Neither 
need we in this cafe be feared, left any iuch 
Perfon go, or be fent toofoon unto Chrift, and 
that the Teacher of this Do<Srinc be found to 
fofter Prefumption, and to offer untimous Con- 
folation ; for, it is one thing to di>ed:a Man to 
go to Chrift, for fupply of vvhatfoever good is 
wanting in him, and another thing towarranda 
f^cureSinner to lay hold on theConfolations 
of the Gofpel, wliich God hath referved in 
His own Hatid, to be difpenfed indue time 
and order, to the truely humble Penitent. 
The ' Lord knoweth how to deal with fuch 
as come unto Him ; He can hold an imhum- 
bled Supplicant Praying and Knocking at 
Heaven's Door, without giving him a com- 
fortable Anfvver until he be humbled, and (6 
prepare him by Humiliation for Coiifolation 
in due time. 

True it is, that many draw near to Chrift with 
their Lips while their Hearts are far away, and re- 

X 2 main 



BOOK II. [ ux ] CHAP. I. 

main fenfelefsof their evil Eftate and Condition, 
and are far from the earneft defire of the Reme- 
dy which is to be had in Chnft : And therefore 
it is, not without caafe, that Paftors in their 
Sermons require the fight and fenfeofSin, and 
hunger and third forRighteoufiiefs in them who 
come to Chrift, and defire to profit by their 
coming to Him : For, albeit it be free to God, 
Without antecedent preparatory Exerciles, to fall 
in upon Mans Heart fuddenly, and at one Ser- 
mon both convince him of Sin, and lead him in 
to Chnft, as he huh fome time dealt with a 
Multitude, when Peter was preaching, A'Cl. z. 
yet it is not free for Men to neglect their Duties, 
when they are advertiEed that the order of GoUs 
working ordinarily, is, to take a time for in- 
formation of their Mind concerning their natural 
Mifery, and His gracious way of Delivery, and 
for a time to work on their Hearts by the Law, 
before He give them the felt Fruits of the GofpeL 
Mean time this muft be remembred, that no 
Man, difpleafed with his Difpofition, as not fit- 
ted for Mercy,and who doth regrate that he is a 
itupid Sinner,and fo hard-hearted that he cannot 
repent, Ihould be keeped off, and debarred from 
going to Chrift, till he difcern in himfelf the 
Contrition and Humiliation of Heart which he 
would have : For this were as much as to fay 
in efl'edt, that before a Sinner may go to Chrift, 
he muft leek, not from Chrift, but out of his 
own Strength apd Abilities to work up his own 

Heart 



BOOK II. [ 323 ] CHAP. I. 

Heart to the fenfe of Sin and Humiliation of 
Heart, and other tuch like D>iponcions, p.s ordi- 
narly go before the ad and decerning of favirig 
Faith ; for, if even Simon Magus, difcovered and 
Foimdout to be in theGall ofBitterAefs and Bond 
of Iniquity, was exhorted to Pray that Cud 
, would forgive his Sins, and remove the Perverf- 
nelsofhis Heart, and favehim from deferved 
WrarJi,^#.8.2i. EIovv much more are they to be 
encouraged to go to Ghrift for relief from thele 
Evils which they feel and fear, in whom not on- 
ly this Gall of liitrernefs doth not appear, but 
aifo fome appearances may be marked, by wife 
Beholders, of a begun work of Grace in them,al- 
beit the Man himfeif cannot perceive fo much 
for the time ? 

17. Seing it is certain, that God doth preveert 
by Grace every converted Man's Actions, before 
the Man do a&ually turn himfeif to God, and 
that the Lord ufcth to open the Eyes of the Man 
whom He is converting, to fee fuch and fuch 
Evils in himfeif before thefe Evils be taken away; 
and feeing it is God's ufua! way by preventing, 
to give fbme meafure of the good to be prayed 
for, that the Man may pray foL more good upon 
the receit of fome meafure of that Good already 
bellowed ; therefore all they who defire to ap- 
proach to Chrilt, mud be taught to make, ob- 
ferve, and take notice of the lead degree of 
Good bellowed upon them, of the finalleft be- 
ginnings of lUufflination,of the meaneft degrees of 

X -x coiv* 



BOOK I. [ 3x4 1 CHAP. I. 

Convi 3:ion for Sin, of the lead meafure of Efti- 
rnation ofChrift and His Grace,wrought already 
in themfelvcs, and ro thank the Lord for fb 
much Eyc-falve as hath opened their Eyes to dif- 
cern their ownBiindnefs and Mifery, and Chrift: 
to be the Remedy of all the Evils they do fee; 
and after they have marked what is beftowed 
already on them, and haveblcfled God for the 
Gift, theymuft be exhorted to requeft the Lord 
to make out and perfect the begun Mercy, that 
they may be fure of their own real Conversion; 
for fo doth the new Convert pray, Jer. 31, 18. 
Convert me, and I (hall be converted ; and the 
humble Soul, Can+li. 4. Draw me after Thee, and 
we will run after Thee. And this we fpeak not as 
if any unconverted Man could in the fen(e of his 
Sin an i Mifery fuicerely and heartily feek after 
Chrift,or for more Grace from Him. But becaufe 
fame that areConvcrtcd donor perceive that they 
are Converted, we frame cur fpeech to their efti- 
mationofthemfelves, that they may be edified 

ire brought unto Chrift, by thedraughrof 
effectual Calling. and have not as yet received the 
Gift of the Spirit to perceive thefe things, which 
are freeiy beftowed upon them, 1 Cor. 2. 12. 

18. As itufeth to be in the Sicknefs of the Bo- 
dy, (bit fallethoutin theSicknefies of the Confci- 

, that as there are forne Sicknefles fimplc,and 

io:v.o complicar,when moe Sickneiies concur 
together* So in the Confcience, there are fome 

e, fomc complicat ill Cafes, Sirnole and 



BOOK II. [ 3x5- ] CHAP. 1. 

fingle Cafes of Confcience arethefe, wherein the 
difeafed Soul is troubled with one Doubt only 
for the prefent : As for Example, when the Party* 
affli&ed, is doubtful only of the Will of God 
toward him, and not of His Power. Such was the 
Cafe of the Leper, Matth. 8. 2. Thoucanft make 
me clean, if Thou wilt. 

Complicat and involved Cafes,are, when many 
Evils concur together, and the Confcience is 
troubled with many Doubts. In which Cafe 
many Queftions may oficr themfelves in a throng 
together, which the aiili&ed Party cannot well 
diiiihguiflh, and thereupon is driven to darknefs 
and confufion of Mind. In this Cafe the Pallor, 
or prudent Chriftian Friend, mud obferve Como 
order, beginning with the moft perilous Doubt, 
that it may be firft folved; Which Doubt being 
anfwered in the firft place, let him fail upon the 
anfwering of the reft of the Doubts in order. As 
fbrExample,ifthe Party be afflidted with Tenta- 
tions unto Defperation,let him be cleared and led 
by the Hand to lee and acknowledge a poflibility 
of Salvation by Chrift,and then a Probability and 
Appearance that it fhalibe by an Argument taken 
from his prefent exercife, which putteth an Ear- 
rand in his Hand,andfoaWarrand to go to Chrift, 
and fo piece and piece let him be dealt with to ac- 
cept the general Offer of Grace inChrift,and to be- 
lieve in Him. Now that fuch may be the Exer- 
ciicof theChiklofGod,appearethF/^/.4x.7. Deep 
talleth unto deep>at the noije of thy Water-(?o>:ts all 

X 4 thy. 



BOOK II. [ 3^ 1 CHAP. I 

thy Waves and Billows are gone over me. And 
Pjal. 77. 7. 8. Will the Lord cafl off for ever y 
and will He be favourable no more ? Is His Grace 
clean gone for ever ? and will He be favourable no 
wore > &c. At lafthe difcovereth his Duty to 
believe iti God, ahd concludeth againfl himfelf, 
that his giving fo far way to the Tentation was 
his Infirmity. 

19. We mud diftiriguifti worldly Sorrow, and 
Hypocondrick-pafflons and Perturbations of 
Mind, from Cafes of Confcience, and fpirirual 
Exercife in the Wreftlings of Faith, that for a 
natural Difeafe and Diftemper a pertinent Reme- 
dy may be called for fromthebodily Phyficians; 
and to fuch as are under a fpiritual Exercife, the 
Doubts of their Confcience may be prudently lou- 
fed. In fuch a Cafe, when both the bodily Di- 
ftemper and fpiritual Exercife are joined,Circum- 
fpecftion is neceflary,that proportionable Reme- 
dies be ufed by the Phyfician, and the Paftor, or 
prudent Friend, that bodily Medicineand fpiri- 
tual Confoiations may be each in their own time 
and order wifely made ufe of : And becaufe ituf- 
eth to fall out.that exercife of Confcience and Di- 
ftcmper of bodily Humors are oftentimes joined 
one with another, let itbefufficient, that a word 
is caften in here for Advertifement. 

20. In curing Cafes of Confcience, it is not fuf- 
ficient to loofe ibme one Doubt or other ,but after 
{atisfa&ion given to the Parties affii&ed concer- 
ning the prcfent Cafe, which hath troubled them 

they 



BOOK II. [ 317 ] CHAR I; 

they muft learn to obferve other Caufes, which 
may trouble them afterward, wherewith for the 
prelent they poilibly are not troubled, and muft 
be direded to acquaint themfelves withGhrift, 
that in Him they may have Relief from every Sin, 
& every fort of Mt(ery;and to that end & purpofe 
they muft confecrat and devout themfelves to 
Him,to depend upon Him in all things.and at ail 
times,whatfoevcr way He iliall be pleafed to ex- 
ercife them; for,whoibever do come untoChrift, 
muft come of fet purpofe to abide in Him, and 
never depart from Him, but to live in Him,and 
draw Grace afterGrace out of HisFulnefs; Grace 
tomortifieSin, Grace to renew the Ads of Faith 
and Repentance daily,according as they find new 
guiltinefs contracted, and weaknefs in themfelves 
to do commanded Duties: For except they do fo, 
theyfhall eafily Aide back from their begun San- 
dhfication : and furnifh Matter to Satan for rafing 
of new Doubts in their Souls, and new Tenta- 
tions unto Sins, wherein they have not fallen be- 
fore : Therefore muft they keep the Habits of 
Faith and Repentance in aitual exercife daily. 

ir. In dealing with a troubled Confcience, 
let not the Comforter, whether a Pallor or a 
prudent Friend, truft to his Abilities, or ar-^ 
rogat to himfelf above what is due to him, but 
let him keep his Eye upon the Lord, and in 
his Heart be praying to God to blefs the Word 
in his Mouth, giving Glory to God expreily, if 
he perceive the affli&ed Party laying hold on 

God's 



BOOK II. ( 318 ] CHAP. I 

Word delivered by him. And let him alfo teach 
the Affii&ed to lift his Eyes to the Lord, when 
the Word of Confolation is difpenfed to him by 
the Miniiler or prudent Friend, that God may 
have the Glory in his Confolation, and no more 
afcribed to the Inftrument then is due: For,the 
Miniiler may fow the Seed and plant, and wa- 
ter, but God only can give the Increafe : Men 
are ready to fail in this point and mar the Blefi 
ling ; for God is a jealous God and will not give 
His Glory to another. 

22. In cafe the expected Confolation be not 
found, or the Doubt propounded be not folved fo 
loon as isdefired, let the Afflicted be exhorted, 
that he make not haft infeeking Comfort, but 
patiently fubmit himfelf to God's Will in exer- 
cifing him for a while, and humblq himfelf un- 
der His mighty Hand, in Meeknefs waiting for 
Clearnefs and Comfort in due time; for, Affliction 
is fent to work Patience, and Patience to work 
Experience, and Experience to work Hope, which 
{hall not make the patient Man afhamed : And 
it is far better for a Soul to ly for a time in the 
Bonds of Amiction, till it be daunted and fub- 
dued, than before Patience hath had the perfect 
work, to feek to have its foolifh Willies granted 
unto it: For if once a Soul heartily fubmit it (elf 
to God, or drive to fubmit, and patiently wait 
on, Confolation will be found not far off. 

23. In regard the Work of the Holy Ghoft, 
working the Convcrfion of a Man, may begin 

be- 



BOOK II. [ 319 ] CHAP. T. 

before it can be marked, it is the part of him 
who medleth with the afflicted Conscience, to 
deal tenderly with the Affli&ed, and fo to tem- 
per his Speech, as he may both furchcr Repen- 
tance and Faith, pre-fuppofing the Parties exer- 
cife may prove a begun Work of Grace; for, it is 
better fo to judge in Charity of God's Difpenfa- 
tion, than to fortcr finifter Suspicions of the Par- 
ty ailh£ted, which may readily break forth in 
fome unhappy Expreffions to the hutting of the 
Patient, and hindering his profiting by what 
may be faid beftde. 

2,4. Becaufe we have to do in this Book with 
the weak Believers, who, in the fenie of Sin 
and defer ved Wrath, are fled or fiying unto 
Chrift, with a purpofe of Amendment of Life, 
but do fear they are not, or mall nor be admit- 
ted into that Kingdom of our Lord jefus, for 
this and that pretended Reafon : Therefore, 
it will be to purpofe in comforting them, to 
make ufe, as of other Scriptures, lb inipecial 
ofthefe twoPaflages; the one z Cor. 5-. 19. 
the other, 1 Cor. 1. 30. the one iervi.ig to 
convince them, that they are already in the 
(late of Grace, and of the number of Believers 
in Chrift, how ftrongly fo ever they are aP> 
faulted with Fears, Doubts, ana Suipicions, that 
it is otherways: for,in thisPaflage, zCor. 5. 19. 
theApofde fummeth up the whole Gofpel in few 
words, holding forth, Firft, that die fuinefs of 

God 



BOOK II. [ 330 ] CHAR r. 

God in Three Perfons, was in the Second Perfbn 
of the God-head the Mediator Chrift Jefus, and is 
upon the Work ofreconcilingthe World to Him- 
felf, notimputing their Tranfgrcffions unto them 
that receive the gracious OiFcr of Reconcilia- 
tion, tendered through Chrift in the Gofpel. 
Secondly, that God in Chrift hath committed 
unto His Miniftersthe Word of Reconciliation, 
that they, with Authority, may offer Reconcilia- 
tion and Friend (hip with God unto the Hearers 
of the Word of the Gofpel. Thirdly, that the 
Apofties and Minifters of the Gofpel, are fent 
focch and directed as Embaf fodors, to exhort and 
requeft Men, in God's Name, and in the Name 
of Chrift God Mediator manifested in the fleth, 
to be reconciled unto God. Fourthly, that fo 
many as do confent unto, and embrace the gra- 
cious Offer of Reconciliation, are reckoned to 
be Believers, even all they who do acknow- 
ledge their natural Enimity and Sins againft God, 
and do welcome the Meilage of Reconciliation. 
(Tent by the Minifters of the Gofpel) and do en- 
gage themfelves to hold faft this Covenant, aim- 
ing to walk as reconciled Children and Servants 
unto God, uprightly laying forth their Burdens 
and Defires before Him daily : All thefe (I fay ) 
are Believers in Chrift, and may allure themfelves 
of Reconciliation ; for there is no more in the 
Apofties and Minifters Commifiion required, for 
entering of the humbled Sinner into a Covenant 
of Friend fliip fave this, We requeftyou in God's 

Name 



BOOK. II. [ 331 ] CHAP. I. 

Name, and in the Name of God incarnat, Jefus 
Chrift the Mediator, we befeech you be recon- 
ciled to God, V. 20. Now we judge, that hum- 
bled Sinners fled to Chrift, and purpofing to a- 
mend their Lives by His Grace, wiiinot be found 
Unwilling to accent this Offer of Reconciliation, 
but will declare their hearty Content to this Of- 
fer ; and to may be convinced, that a Covenant 
is clofed between God and them, and th^t God 
hath given unto them faving Faith, how weak 
fbever it leemeth unto them; for, the consenting 
unto, and accepting of,this Offer, is the Condi- 
tion required for entering in Covenant,& the pro- 
per acl: of Saving Faith. Fifthly, the Apoftle 
holdeth forth the Ground- right ofthis Covenant, 
and Reafon whereupon the Sinner fled to Chrift 
maybe allured of Juftification : Becaufe in the 
Covenant of Redemption paft between God in 
Three Perfbns on the one hand, and the Second 
Perfonof the God -head as Mediator and perfect 
Redeemer by Price-paying on the other hand, 
it is agreed, finally ended and decreed, that 
Chrift's Satisfaction, made for the Embracer of 
this offered Reconciliation, ihall as certainly 
make the Believer judicially Righteous and juftify 
him, as Chrift was judicially madeSm,or aSa- 
crifice for the Sins of the Redeemed : For, God, 
faith he, V. 21, hath made Chrift to be Sin for 
us, who knew no Sin 9 t hat we might be made the Righ- 
teoufnefs of God in Him. Therefore as Chrift the 
only Mediator, by accepting the Covenant of 

Re- 



BOOK II [331] CflAP. f. 

Redemption, \nd the Sins of the Redeemed 
imputed unto Him, (albeit there was no Sin at 
all, nor could be in Him,) and was punifhed fot 
them unto rhe Death of the Crofs; fo the hum- 
bled Sinner, by flying unto Chrift, and accep- 
ting the offered Covenant of Recoriciliation,hath 
Chuffs fatisfa&ion imputed unto Him, ( albeit 
he can fee nothing in himfelf but a mafs of in- 
herent Sin) and ihali not enter into Condemna- 
tion, but be brought to Life- eternal through 
Jefus Chrift our Lord. Both the Covenant of 
Redemption made with Chrill in the Redeemer's 
Name,and the Covenant of Reconciliation made 
with us through Chrift, are of God's making, and 
fomuft {land, and cannot bedif annuled for ever. 
The other place, r. Cor. 1. 30. holdcth forth 
the Right which God hath made to the Believer, 
unto the unfearchabie Riches of Chrift, where- 
unto the weakeft Believer, fled from Sin and 
Wrath unto Chrift, as the Refuge and perfect 
Remedy from both, may claim namely,Wifdon?, 
Righteoufnefs.SandHfication and Redemption by 
Him,and that by Covenant and Decree regiftrat iii 
this, and other places of Scripture,as judicially de- 
clared and adjudged unto all and every Believer 
in Him; fo that they may and fhould make ufe 
of Chriil, as made unto them Wifdom to direifc 
them, Juftification to juftifie them, Savciification 
to perfed: them piece and piece in Holineis, and 
Redemption to fupport them under, and deliver 
them from, ail Bonds of Miftry. 



BOOK II. [ 333 ] CHAP. I. 

For the better underftanding of this rich 
PafTage, vvc ihall take it up in Four Sentences, 
pronounced from the Holy Spirit by the Apoftle; 
in every one vvhereof,thefe three things arc infi- 
nuat and imported, Firft, our need of Chrift; 
2,. His engaged Help and Supply; and 3. our 
Duty to lay hold upon, and make ufe of Him 
according to the Right and Intereft in Him,madc 
unto every Believer. 

The Firft Sentence is this, Chrift is made unto 
us Wifdom, which importeth, Firft, that not 
only we are by Nature blind and ignorant of 
our Sin and Mifery, blind and ignorant of the way 
of Salvation and right manner of ferving God, 
butalfo after that wc are illuminat by Grace, and 
made in fome meafure to know our loft Condi- 
tion, and to fly unto Chrift for Delivery, we are 
compafled about with much Darknefs and foggy 
Mifts of Doubts 5 Errors,and Miftakes, and have 
need to be in every ftep of our way dire&ed and 
powerfully taught by Chrift's Word and Spirit, 
to know what is that good acceptable Will of God. 

Secondly, It importeth, that as Chrift is the 
Treafureof all Wifdom and Knowledge, Who 
hath revealed in the Scriptures the whole Coun- 
fel of God concerning our Salvation; fo He is 
judicially made over unto us as anointed Pro- 
phet to His Church, to make known unto us 
the way of Life by His Word and Spirit. 

Thirdly, It imports our Duty to receive Him 
as the great Gift of God^ and to give up oar 

(elves 



BOOK. II. [334] CHART. 

felves to His Teaching, to imploy Him and de- 
pend upon Him, as Prophet appointed to us,for 
diredfron by His Word, what to Believe and 
how to Live before God. Whereupon thewea- 
kefl Believer may trull in Him for guiding them 
in the uk of -the Scripture, and excrcile of the 
Means appointed by Him unto Salvation; be- 
came He is made of God unto us IVtfdom&nd in- 
timation thereof is made by His Apoftle. 

The Second Sentence is this, Chrijt is made of 
Gcd unto us Right eoujnefs : Which prefupponeth, 
F n ft ,that we arc by Nature deftitute d r R ighteout 
neis coi,w:en r.cd as Unrighteous by the Law, and 
unable to deliver our lelves from Condemnation, 
and when we are fled to Chrift and delivered 
from Condemnation, that we are not able to 
fiand in that ilate. but by our daily Sins where- 
in we fall, do deierve to be condemned as Un- 
righteous. 

Secondly, It imports, that Chrift is not only 
Righteous in Himfelf, and able to fatisfie Divine 
Juftice for our Sins, but alfo hath undertaken to 
pay, and actually hath payed the Price of our 
Redemption, by His Obedience unto the Father, 
even to die Death of the Crofs, and hath taken 
on Him the Office of High Prieft,to apply unto 
us Abfolution from our Sins, make us accepted, 
and to be dealt with as Righteous, and to keep 
us in that blefled eftate by His Interceffion. 

Thtrd/y, It imports our Duty to lay hold on 
Chrift our Cautioner; by vertue of our Right 



BOOK II. [ $if ] CHAP, t 

and Intcreft in Him, granted and intimat unco 
us, and fo to reft on Him, that whatfocver Satan, 
Confcience, or Lavv violat by us, fhall (ay, we 
who are fled from Sin and Wrath to Him, may 
oppofe this Sentence of our Abfolutionregiftrat 
here, Chrift is made unto us Right eoufnejs judi- 
cially by the Decree and Decreet of God. 
•• The Third Sentence is this, Chrifl is wade unto 
us of God Santlification : .Which prefupponeth, 
thatia thejuftified Believer there are remaining 
ftill the Rcliques of Sin inherent, from which 
we are not able of oiir felves to deliver our 
felvcs, but have need of Divine Power to morti- 
fie Sin in us, and to repair the Image of God by 
increafing Holinefs in us. 

Secondly, kimporteth, that Chriilthe Media- 
tor, the Holy One of Ifrael, hath not only pay- 
ed 'the Price of our Redemption for removing of 
ourGuikinefs^nd faving usfromCondemnatioLi, 
but alio hath undertaken to tha Father to write 
His Law in our Heart, and aclaft to prelenc 
us perfed: without Spot'or lilemiili, for .which 
end, He hath taken by appointment the three-fold 
Office of Prophet, Prieft and King. 

Thirdly, It imports, that it is. our Duty to lay 
hold upon.this rich Gift and Right, intimacunto 
us judicially from God, and vvhatfoevar com- 
manded Duty we. are to go about, we do it in 
the Name of Chrift, fucking by Faith, Sap and 
Vertue from Him to bring forth gsod Fruits, ho- 
ly and acceptable to God through Him : Becaufe 

Y Chrift, 



BOOK H. [ 33* ] CHAP. I. 

Chriftjthe Second Perfon of the God-head incar- 
nat is made unto us, and judicially intimate from 
God to us, our Sanilification. 

The Fourth Sentence is this. Chrift is madeof God unto 
lis Redewption.-Wh'ich importeth,jFir/?,That we who 
have fled from Sin and Wrath unto Chrift, and 
arejuftifiedby Faith, and begun to be San&ifi- 
ed,are yoked in a Warfare with our finf ul Flefli, the 
World and Satan,being fubjecft to many Miferics 
in this Life, and to Death natural and the Grave. 
In which Warefare we are not of our felves able to 
Hand, nor to deliver our (elves from the Mife- 
ries whereunto we are fubjed, except by Divine 
Power we be fupported,brought thorow & Saved. 

Secondly, It imports,that Chrift not only hath 
payed a fatisfa&ory Price for our Redemption, 
and is able to deliver us from all Sin and Mifery 
againft rhe power of whatfoever Adverfary;but 
aifo,that He hath undertaken the Work,and hath 
by compact with the Father, obliged Himfclf to 
deliver us powerfully from all Sin and Mifery, 
and to overcome to our behoove all our Enemies 
and tread them underfoot,and that He is judici- 
ally eftablifhed in His kingly Office,& made over 
to us for our ailli ranee by Decreet intimat to us. 

Thirdly, It importeth our Duty, that byvertue 
of theRight and Gift of Chrift God-man,made 
over unto us by God's Decreet now intimat, we 
ihould rely by Faith on Him, as the Pledge of 
perfe&ing our Salvation throughly,and fight out 
our Battles, againft ail adverfar Powers and all 

Mi* 



BOOK II. [ 337 I CHAP II. 

Miferies,in His ftrength,rejoycing in His Victo- 
ry over all our Enemies; for, God hath made 
Him unco us Redemption. 

CHAP. 1% 

Wherein the Eegenerat Mans Doult of his leing in 
theflate of Grace* by reafon of his felt umvorthi- 
nefs, is anfwered. 

THefe premifed Confiderations, may ferve 
for the more eafy Solution of Doubts,and 
particular Cafes, wherein the Regenerat 
Man may be troubled about his being in the 
ftate of Grace. For which end it is needful alio, 
by way of Example, to propound fome ufual 
Queftions in particular : The Anfvvering whereof 
may ferve to anfwer all Queftions which do a- 
iife from the like Original: For, 

i. Howfoever it be certain from Scripture,that 
the Regenerat {hall not pcrilh,and that their ftate in 
Grace is unchangable, and that their perfeverance 
in the Faith is eltablifhed by Chrift's undertaking 
to make them perfevere,according to the charge 
given unto Him from the Father, Job. 6. 39. 40. 
yet,it istrue alfo, that every Regenerat Man is 
not clear about his Regencration,and many Re- 
generat Perfons have only a conje&ural Opinion 
that they are Regenerat,who are not come up as 
yet to an aflurance & perlw alion of their blefled E- 
ftate. And the number is noe great of thele who al- 
ways,or any long time together, do enjoy that 

Y % 



BOOK II. [ 338 ] CHAP. E 

Serenity and Tranquility qf Confcicftce,thatthey 
can confidently triumph, and glory with the A- 
poftle, Ror/i. 5 3.4, J. becaulVof Dcfcrtioas and [; 
Tentations raifing Doubts in their Confcience, 
concerning their Eftatc.oft- times holyPcrfons arc 
difquieted. With fuch Perfons, while they .are in 
that cafe, a Pallor or a prudent Friend raud deal 
fo, as he would dca! with the Infirm, and with 
them who think themfelves not Converted, be- 
icaufethe fame Remedies will fcrve to ftrengthen 
a weak Believer, and to draw a Soul, fenfible of 
Sm, and under the Pangs of the New-birth, un- 
to Faith in Chrift. 

2.. But let us come more particularly to exa- 
mine the Doubts of fome that are Regenerated 
their pretended Reafons for their doubting. 
Some are fo fenfible of their own umvorthinefs* 
that they queftion if thcmfclves.or any like un- 
to themfelves, C2n be in the ftatp of Grace,mean 
iftm their Carriage is fuch as becometh aChri- 
fiian, blarnelefs: I feel in me (faith one) fuch 
ftrengrh cf inward Corruption, as doth defile 
every beft adioh I go about; I fee what fiolinefs 
is required in thofc that approach unto God,that 
I do utterly loath my felf, as unworthy to be 
admitted into the Feilowfhip of God or Chrift 
the Holy One of Jjrael : yea (faith another) I 
thittk it no fmall preemption todrawnear un- 
to Chrift, or count my feif among His Saints 
and Followers. 

This 



BOOK II. 1 3 39 ] CHAP. If; 

This for a fliort time was the cafe of Ifaiah, 
when in a Vifion he (aw the Glory of Chnft in 
the Temple, and heard theScraphims proclaim 
Him thrice Holy, Tfa. 6. 5*. Wo is me [(kid he) 
for I am undone, lecaufe I am a Man of unclean Zips, 
and I dwell in the miJft of a People of unclean lips ; 
for mine Ryes have fe en the King, the Lord of 
Hofls. This a!(b was the cafe of Peter, who 
in the fenfe of his own unworthinefs, wakened 
up by the Alining of the Glory of ChrilVs God^ 
head in the miraculous Tack of Fifhcs, Lak. 5.8. 
failing down at Chrift's Knees, he cryeth, De- 
part from me, Lord, for I am a fitful Man:whi<$\ 
is as much as if he had faid, I am utterly un- 
worthy to be admitted unto fcllowfhip with 
Thy Holy Majefty. The like alfo was the cafe 
of the Publican in the Parable, LuL 18. 13. 
out of which cafe, after fome wreflling of Faith, 
he cometh forth toward God, yet Handing a far 
of£ not daring to lift up his Eyes to Heaven : 
Wherein is pointed out to us the fenfe of his un- 
worthinefs, hindering him to approach confi- 
dently to the Throne of Grace. 

3. For removing of this Doubt, Five or Six 
Considerations may be reprefented to the Party 
affiidtcd, with this Provifo, that the fenfe of his 
Unworthinefs be not difcharged, or dirriiniilied, 
but wifely entertained in him rather; for, it is 
not to be prefuppofedj that any Man can e- 
fteerri himfelf fo unworthy, and far from me- 
riting any good at God's Hand, as lie is 

X 3 



BOOK II. [ 340 ] CHAP. II. 

But yet his Doubt, how he dare or may draw 
near untoChrift becaufe of his felt unworthinefs 
may be folved. 1. If he confider the nature and 
offer made of the Covenant of Grace, whereby 
thefe that are fenfible of their own unworthinefs 
are fo far from being debarred from the Cove- 
nant of Grace that the Covenant of Grace doth 
not admit any Perfbn to be received into it,but 
fiich only who do renounce all confidence 
in their own Works and Worthinefs, and do 
fly unto the offer of the free Grace of God in 
Chrift: For, our Lord hath faid, Matth. 9. 1 3. 
7" came not to call the Righteous hut Sinners to Re- 
pentance: And thePromifes of the Evangel, are 
made to the Poor in Spirit, to the Hungry and 
Thirfty for the Righteoufnefs ofChrift, which 
onlycanfatisfica hungry Soul, Matth 5*. 3, 6. 
yea, the fenfc of Unworthinefs is in efFed: that 
Self-loathing whereof Ezek. fpeaketh C/^.36.3 1 . 
which fenfe of Unworthinefs may befeeninj^, 
as a fpecial ad: and evidence of His Repentance, 
Joh. 41. 6. 

Secondly, Let him confider ,that becaufe by rea- 
fon of Sin,no worthinefs can be found in us,there- 
fore God hath freely loved theWorld and provided 
Grace in Chrift,that all that fly to Him,may out 
of His Fulnefs receive Grace for Grace, Joh. 1 . 1 6. 

thirdly, The threefold Office of a Mediator, 
wherewith Chrift hath cloathed Himfelf,doth ob- 
yiat and meet the Doubts of the. humbled Soul un- 
der the fenfe of unworthmefs;For 5 a!beit he be ig- 



BOOK. IF. [ 341 ] CHAP. IE 

norant and flow to underftand and believe the 
revealed Will of God,about Mens Salvation, and 
his prefcribed Service ; yet, upon his flying to 
Chriit, he hath Chrift offered and given to him 
for his Wifdom,a Prophet able to inform him, to 
open his Eyes, and perfvvade him to embrace by 
lively Faith all faving Doclrine. Albeit he be ex- 
ceeding finful and worthy ofCondemnation,yet 
he hath Chrift as Pried made of God unto him 
R'ghteoufnefs and Sanct?fical/(M 9 upon his flying to 
Him for Refuge from Sin and Wrath, underta- 
king alfo powerfully to fanfHfie him, by morti- 
fying his Corruptions,and perfecting at laft the 
Image ofGod in him. And albeit he have the 
World and his own Flefn, and the power of all 
Principalities and fpiritualWickednefs,with many 
Miferies in this Life to wreftle with;yet, he hath 
Chrift Jefus as King made of God unto him Re- 
demption, upon his flying to Chrift for Refuge 
againft all his Enemies ; fo that he may be fure 
to be found among them whom He hath Redee- 
med by Price-paying, and for whom He hath 
undertaken powerfully to fuftain them in all this 
War-fare, whatfoever Mifery they may be in,and 
at laft to bring them out of all Sin and Mifery to 
a perfect Reft in everlafting Glory. And to 
what end hath our Lord taken on the Of- 
fice of a Mediator and Redeemer, if not to 
open the Eyes of the Blind that fly to Him 
for Eye-Salve, to coyer the Naked flying 
unto Him, with the precious Garment 

Y 4 of 



BOOK It T 34* 3 CHAR ft 

of His imputed Rightcoufncfs, and to enrich the 
Poor,Needy andUnworthy outof the Store-houfe 
of His urtfearchable Riches of Grace? Rev. 3 .18. 
Fourthly, Let him confider the conftant courfe 
of Grace and pra&ical Difpenfation thereof,in all 
Ages toward all the Converted. Are not all they 
to whom the Gofpel cometh, in the ftate of cor- 
rupt Nature, when God cometh to convert them? 
For, never was there any Perfon called unto the 
date of Grace, but he was found in his Sins,and 
in ftate of loft Shiners by Nature: none but 
Children of Wrath and Enemies by Nature are 
reconciled; none but they, who, by the Law, 
are condemned, are jufdhed; none but they, that 
in. their own fenfe are loft, do obtain Salvation; 
tor Chrift doth plainly tell us, I came to feek and 
i fave them that are loft. Did he ever rejed; any 
that fied unto Him, became they were unwor- 
thy I No ; for it is hid, Pf 9. 10. they that 
know Thy Name will trufl in Thee ; for' thou never 
forfook them that fought thee. And (Joh. 6. 37. ) 
He faith, the fe that come unto Me J will in no cafe 
cafl out, z Tim. 1. 9. Not according to our works, 
hut according to His own Purpofe and Grace, hath 
He called its. 

Fifhiy, Let him confider the Worthinefs of 
Chrift V Perfon and Merits/ Who, (becaufeHe 
being Gad and Man in one Perfon, hath paid a 
Price of infinite value for Redemption ofSinners 
who By unto Him) is worthy, for Whofe Caufe, 
the unworthy Sinner flying to the Throne of 

Grace, 



BOOK. IT. [ 343 ] CHAR TIL 

Grace, fhould be received in favour,& made fit for 
eternal Life by the San&ification of His Spirit. 
Sixthly, Let him confider, that if he itand a- 
back fromChrift, and do not riy unto Him, how 
unworthy locver he think himfelf, lie remains 
under Wrath and the condemnatory Sentence of 
the Law, Job, i. 8. but iet him rather remem- 
ber, that he is warranted by a Command of God 
the Father, to fly to Chrift, i Jab. 3. 23. This 
is His Commandment, that we [hwld believe on tbe 
Name of His Son Jefus Chrifl, and love one another 
as He bath commanded us. And therefore, let 
him fay of his own Soul with the Centurion, 
(peaking of his Servant toChrift, ( Luk. 7. 6. 
7. ) I am net worthy that Thou jhould come under 
my Roof; but fay the word, and my Servant fhall 
he healed. The Word is faid frequently ira Scrip- 
ture, let the AfRided reft himlclf on it. 

CHAR HI. 

Wherein the Regenerat Mans Doubts, arifing from 
the multitude and weight of his Sins aga/nfj the 
Law and the G of pel, and again]} the Light of his 
Confcience, are anfwered. - 

AS in the Pangs of die New-birth, this 
Doubt hath much weight to keep a 
Soul a-back from embracing Chrift,and 
receiving Pardon through Him ; fo after a Man is 
Regenerat and made quiet in his Confcience,whcn 
through fad AjJli#ion and {oreTemptation,thefe 

wounds 



BOOK II, [ 344 ] CHAR HI, 

Wounds ofhisConfcience begin to bleed again.his 
Pardon & Peace is called in queftion.Of tins Exer- 
cife there are three Degrees: the Firftis, when Sins 

againft the Law are muftered 3 and led in an Hoft a- 
gainft a Soul; which was the cafe of the affli&ed 
Pfelmift for a time, till by Faith he over-come the 
Doubt, P f aL^o. i z. Innumerable Evils have compaf- 
Jed me about y mine Iniquities have taken hold on me Jo 
that I am not able to look up: they are more then the 
Hairs of mine Head;therefore my Heart fvleth me. 

The Second Degree is, whenbefide the Man's 
Sins againft the Law, his Sins alio againft theGor 
fpel,againft Chrift and the Means of Sal vation, 
do arifb in battel againft him, and do drive him 
to cry out. with thefe not yet converted Sinners, 
{Ail, 2. 37.) Men and Brethren, what fhall we dot 

The Third Degree is,when the Regenerat Man, 
forfbme gro(s Sins againft the Light of hisCon- 
fcience,isgivenupfora time tobefcourged with 
the Temptations and Accufations ofSatan,asif 
he had finned againft the Holy Ghoft, and no 
more Mercy were referved for him;and this was 
the cafe of the Prophet Jonah % vj\\z\\ being guilty & 
confeiousto his late Rebellion againft God, he is 
purfued and apprehended by God, andcaftenin 
the Sea, he falkth in a Fit of Delperation till trod 
gave him vidtory by Faith,jfo//.i.4. Thenlfaid, I 
am cafl out of Thy fight ;yet I will look again to Thy holy 
7ew/>/?:Which wa$ the tryfting place of God with 
Sinners in a Mediator. This was alfo the cafe of 
Pavid for a time, after that his Confcience is 

wafc- 



DO OK. II. [ 34? ] CHAP. IB. 

wakened by the Meflage of God fent unto him in 
the Mouth of tfathanzhc Prophet,when he found 
the Spirit of Confolation with-drawn from him, 
and the Wrath of God breaking his Bones, and 
confuming the Marrow thereof, /y^ 1.8,9,10,1 1. 
1 x. Make me to hear joy and gUancfs that the 
hones which Thou haft broken may rejoice, ike, 

2. In anfvvering this Doubt, we muft proceed 
futably to each degree (everally.In curing thisCafe 
in the Firft Degree,let the Afflicted admit all the 
juft Aggravations of his Sins againft the Law, 
which theConfcience doth prefs;For,by extenua- 
tion of Sin neither is Gods Juftice glorified, nor 
theConfcience fatisfied;and Contblation or Hope 
of Remiffionof Sin muft not arife from the tew 
number or lightnefs of Sins, but from the multi- 
tude and largenefs of God's Mercy: And therefore, 
we muft not cut Ihort the reckoning with the 
Lords Law,nor muft we deminifh the weight and 
eftimation of our evil Defervings;but courfe muft 
be taken, that by the fenfc of Guiltinefs, the 
judgment of the afflicted Perfon be not fo con- 
founded and perplexed, as if his Cafe were de- 
fperat, and poftibility of Salvation were pafled ; 
but rather let the Afflicted humble himfelf un- 
der the Mighty Hand of God, Who alone can 
deftroy and make alive,and Who ufuallybringeth 
down to Death and brink of Hell, and bringeth 
back again,and Who alone doth work Wonders. 

This Doubt then arifing from the multitude of 
Sins, may be loofed, Firft, by a frefh confidera- 



BOOK. IL [ 346 ] CHAP. Iff. 

tion of the infinic Excellency and Worth inefs of 
Chriftjefus, God roanifefted in the Fielh, and 
of the incomprchenLble Value of the Trice of 
Redemption, payed by Fr.mfor all who fly unto 
Him : For, the Father hath declared .Himfeif (a- 
risfied by Him in beha'.f of the Redeemed, for 
whom He did offer Himfeif, Matth. 3. if. fay- 
ing. This is My b: loved Son, in Whom I am well 
pleafed. Ana K Heb 7. 25. ) This is He, Wl.o is 
able to Cave to the utfermcfl, all that cone to God, 
by Him. Secondly, by confidcration of the in- 
fant iargenefs of God's Bounty, Grace and Mer- 
cy wherein He hath &z no bounds to Himfelf.in 
pardoning and abolishing the Sins of thole that 
come unto Him, how grots and grievous foever 
they have been. If a. 44. 21. I have blotted out 
as a thick Cloud } thy Tranjgreffions and as a Cloud thy 
Sins, return unto Me,, for I have redeemed thee. 
And, {I fa. 1. 18.) Come now and let us reajon to- 
gether, faith the Lord, though your Sins be as Scar- 
let, they fh all be as white as Snow, though they be 
red asCrimfon, they Jhall be as Wool. And. {Matth. 
1 r. 28.) Come unto Me, faith Chrift, all ye that 
-r affd are heavy. loaden,and I will give yon reft. 
Thirdly, By die confideration of the many 
Examples and Experiences of the Mercy of God 
roanifefted in the Pardon of hainovs Sinners, 
bodi in the Old and New Teftarnenr, fet down 
in Scripture, of ice purpofe to invite fuch as are 
troubled with the ienfe of their manifold Sins 
to- come unto Chrift the Mediator, or to God in 

Chrift 



BOOK II. [ 347 1 CHAP. HA 

Chrift. reconciling the World to Himfclf.lv/ not 
imputing Sins to them who embrace the Oiler of 
G ace and Reconciliation, tendered unto them 
in the Gofpel. 

As to the Second. Degree, wherein the Doubt 
is augmented by the addition of the Sins againfl: 
the Gofpel, unto the Sins againfl the Law, by 
dcfpifing or flighting the Mews of Salvation of- 
fered in the Gofpel ; true it is,that the defpifmg 
or flighting of the Offer of Grace in CHrift 
cannot be fufficiently aggreged, becaufe the Sins 
of Sodom indGGryiorah will be found ligfoterj^eing 
laid in the Ballance with the contempt of the Go- 
fpel, Matth. 10. 14, 1 5*. yet notwithftaiiding, 
when God is entered in reckoning with a Sin- 
ner, and is begun to challenge him for his 
Sins againfl the Law and the Gofpel alfo,and hath 
by His Terror humbled;the Man, there is Mer- 
cy infinuated unto that Perfonin the bofomc of 
rhc Threatening. Wherefore die Soul born down 
with the fenfe of Ul-defervjng by Sins againfl: 
both Law and Go{pcI,muft-be exhorted to hum- 
ble himfelf before God, and fly. in unto Chrfft, 
Whoof fctpurpofe that He might anfwer this 
Doubt hath declared, that whefoever fpesJcetha 
word againfl the Son of Man,iriha!l be forsfiven 
him,towit, if he repent thislnjury donetoChrift, 
Matth. 11. 31. and He ftandeth krtockin? at 
the Door of luke-warm Ldodicea, with an Offer 
|.qF coming in to them, and Tupping -with them, 
I that fkall open to Him, nocwithftandfng they 

have 



BOOK II. f 348 ] CHAP. III. 

have (lighted Him long in tHeir fenfeleflnefs of 
Sin, Nakednefs and Mifery. 

As to the Third Degree, wherein the Afflicted 
doth fufpedt, that he hath finned againft the Ho- 
ly Ghoft, becaufehe hath finned againft the Light 
of his Confidence, and Ditcment of the Holy Spi- 
rit : Let the Afflidted confider, that the finning 
in a&ual grofs out- breakings againft the Light of 
the Confcience, is indeed a high Provocation of 
God to His Face, for which the Offender is to 
be humbled all the days of his Life. Secondly, 
let him learn to glorify God's Juftice, Who hath 
made a proud Rebel to be fcourged with Scor- 
pions, and fore bitten with the remorfc of a fligh- 
ted and contemned Confcience. 

Thirdly, Let thofe particular Tranfgre/Tions, 
obje&ed to be done againft the Light of the Con- 
fcience, be examined with their Motives and Cir- 
cumftances : And out of the bitter Rod of Gods 
correcting the Offender, that he fhould not pe- 
rifli with the World, let the Affii&ed take up the 
, Lord's Love in judging him, that he may not be 
condemned. As alfo let the Paftor, or the pru- 
dent Friend, who goeth about to comfort the 
Affii&ed, carefully obferve if the Afflicted be 
grieved for the grieving of the holy Spirit, 
if he defire and long after the Confolation of 
God, Whom he hath offended, if he purpofe to 
walk morecircumfpedly afterward^nd eihew the 
fiiare he hath been taken hito,6r what other Evi- 
dence of Repentancecafl bV feen in htm.whereof 



BOOK TL [ 349 ] CHAP. HI. 

ufe maybe made to aflure the Affli&ed, that he 
hath not finned unto Death, Bccaufe the Sin 
againft the holy Ghoft,as it isdefcribed unto us 
in holy Scripture, is cither a malicious refufing 
and oppofing wittingly and wilfully of Chrift 
Jcfus,aftcr that the Spirit of Chrift hath convin- 
ced the Pcrfon.that Chrift is the Redeemer; and 
this was the Sin of fome PharifeeSj defperar, 
profefled, and irreconciliablc Enemies to Chrift, 
Matth.1x.z4. to 33. or, it is a total Apoftacy 
from Chrift,after they have known Him to be the 
Redeemer, joined with a malicious oppugning 
of the Chriftian Religion, as it is fet forth Hek 
10. 26,27, to 32. and whofocver falleth in this 
Sin he neither repents him of it,nor defires tore- 
pent or be reconciled with^God. 

And therefore, let the humbled and aiflifted 
Penitent, longing to be reconciled unto God 
through Chrift and to find the fenfe of 
His Favour granted or reftored, not fufpe6t 
himfelf any more guilty of this Sin, but 
let him make ufc of the offer of Grace in the 
Gofpel, and of the Example of Penitents menti- 
oned in Scripture. Who knoweth how foon 
the Lord may take the Penitent in His Father- 
ly Embracements, and comfort him abundant- 
ly? Mean time, till the fenfible Comfort 
be given unto him, let him hold faft the 
Promifes made to them that fly unto Chrift. 






chap: 



BOCK II. [ 3 ->o ] CHAP. IV. 

CHAP. IV. 

Wherein isfohed the Doubt ofthe-Re^emrat Man, 
raifed by his fufpicionj,vketb(sr he be Eiefted ornot. 

IT cometh to fbtfs fometimes, that a Sinner 
lamenting his S\n$ % and faeking Liberation 
from Sin and Milery, doth call in que- 
ftion whether -he be Regeiierat,b£caufe he hatha 
deep and fixed fufpicion,ehat he {foil poilibiy be 
found not amorig the El&fej and by.coniequence 
be found a Reprobat : of whofaif ye ask a'Rea- 
fon why he faith fo, he can g$ v£ hcvfblid Arifwer, 
only he will tellcyou he catr perceive no certain 
Signs and Evidences of his Election ; yea, thai 
he findeth nothing in himlelf, but that which 
may be found in Reprobats,* 3tid thac he -is af- 
fraid he be found one of that number, and that 
thisfufpicion hath taken deep root in him, that 
he cannot rid himfelf of this "Doubt and Fe 

L. This Cafe, w*e moft eonfeis, is very dan- 
gerous, except it be timoufly cured; for, here 
Faith is taken as it were by the Throat, and the 
ground of Hope is like to be razed. The fufoi- 
cion of God'sDecree is daily foftcred and augmen- 
ted, and the affii&ed Pcrfon, not only doubteth 
of Gods Good-will to him, but is tempted unto 
Defperation : By this Means the Command of 
God to believe the Promiies and Confolations of 
theGofpel, feem to Him to be offeredko him all 

in 



BOOK II. [ 351 ] CHAP. IV. 

in vain: the hope of fucceft, or profiting in the 
ufc of the Means appointed by God, is under 
mined, fo long as this Sufpicion is entertained ; 
yea, all the Exercifcs of Religion become, bur- 
denfome, out of a fear he iliail follow the cxer- 
cifc thereof to no purpofe ; and fo the Duties of 
Religion, are oft-times left undone, or call off 
for a time, if theTentatioh g:ovvflrong,and con- 
tinue with him without cure or comfort; thus 
he (landeth upon the Border and Precipice of 
fomc fort of Defperation, if his Fear and Sufpi- 
cion be not removed infbme meaiure. 

3. For Cure of this Cafe, the Pallor or pru- 
dent Friend,as in all his Conferences with the Af- 
flicted, fo herein fpecial, muft ferioufly Pray to 
to God that He would blcfs the Means of In- 
formation and Confolation, which lie is about 
to ufe for the fatisfying of the ^ffiicled. 

To this end therefore,/ 7 ;///, let all the Reafons 
whereby the AtinrQcd pretendcth to make his 
Reprobation probable, be refumed and refuted as 
frivolous, ail of them, and certainly they cannot 
but be found frivoious,beciuie Go J hath not gi- 
ven any certainEvidence orSign of P.eprobanon,fo 
i long as aMan is alive, except that Sin unto Death 
the Sin againft the Holy Ghoft, in a maiicio.u 
refufing, rejecting, and hoftile oppofirg of 
Jefus Chriil wittingly and willingly : For. as to 
final Unbelief and Impcuitency, no Man can 
pais Sentence upon any Pcrfon, that hath 
heard any thing of the Gofbel, fo long as Breath 
Z is 



.BOOK IT. [ iji ] GHAF. IV. 

isia^him ; for, God can convert a SouL to Him 
ieif ill the Pang* of imminent Death, as He did 
«thc Thief on the .Croft. 

Ail the evil which the Aifli&ed can fay of 
■himfelf, cannot prove hitn a Reprobar, the liight 
which his Reckoning can rife unto,-tofortifie his 
own fufpicion of himfelf, is only to give appea- 
rance that he is not Regenerat ; mean time we 
prefuppone the affhdred Pcrfbn under thisTenta- 
tion, to labour under the fen(e of manifold Sins 
Cwhich doth furnifli ftrength unto the Tentation.) 
and to be hungry and thirfty for Righteoufnefs, 
and to be defirous tojdraw near to God in Chrift, 
if he could be delivered of his fiifpicion of God's 
Purpofe and Affe&ion towards him. And there- 
fore his Chriftian Friends ^re bound in Charity 
to expound this his Hunger for Righteoufnefs, 
and thirfiy Defire of Reconciliation through 
Chrift, to be a begun work. of gracious Regene- 
ration, and fo alfo a hopeful Sign that he is Elected 
s Secondly, After Refutation of his pretended Rea- 
ions for his Supicion and Fear,this fufpicion mufl 
-be fet before him asaftrong Tentation of Satan 
and aSodi-muthering lie,thro\vn as a fiery Dartai 
jbim/fuchas the Apo'ftle, £/?/^/6.maketh rnentior 
of) of fet purpofe' to' bea: the Shield of Faith out 
of his Hand: Wherefore he muft be exhorted tore 
fill the Tempter,and that fo much themore,as Sa 
can out of Envy and Malice doth flander God,& th 
begun work of Grace in the Man, and all to ve: 
the Soul of him whom he cannot keep in his fnatf 

Third 



,OOK II. [ ?53 ] CHAR IV. 

thirdly, The giving fo much way to this vvic- 
ed Suggeftion, muft be reprefented to the Pa- 
tent as an adt of Ignorance and Folly ,yca an adt 
f Iniquity and Injury unto God, and to his own 
oul : For, what a madnefs is it to pry in upon 
he fecret Counfel of God, and to negle<3: His rc- 
ealed Will fet down in Scripture? what prefurhr> 
on to intrude our felves upon His fecret De- 
rees,and to cafl behind our Back His open Com- 
lands given to us? To refufe obedience to God's 
Ordinances given to us for our Salvation, excegt 
ie {hall firft: tell us what is His purpofe about us 
n particular? To open our Ears to the fallcSuggc- 
tions of the Devil a Liar, and Murtherer from 
he Beginning, and ftop our Ears from hearing 
he Voice of God fpeaking to, us in Scripture ? 
Vhcrefore let the Arrh&ed under this Tempta- 
ion take heed to what is laid. Dent. 2,9. 29.- 
r he fecret things lelcxg unto the Lord our Cod, but 
hefe things that are revealed belimg unto us and 
ur Children for ever, that ne tpay do all the 

-ds of this Law. Let c-hc Lord's Corr.niand 
>c firft obeyed, and then the Decree of God 
oncerning the Believer in Kim, fhaii be timc- 
revealcd : For, His Profits are ^;reeabie 
vith His Decrees, and His Promiies ireo^ered 
;o us, that thereby His Decrees m$y be brqught 
>n unto a jutl and gracious Execution. 
, Fourthly, Let tlic.Mli&cd caii to Mind, wfi.n 
benefits the Lord hath bellowed upon him fnprn 
lis Infancy, and inipccisl, tharjie hath c%cd, 

t 2. and 



BOOK II. [ 354 ] CHAP.V. 

and doth continue to offer Chnft Jefus unto 
hi'm, if he will receive Him for Wifdom, Righ- 
tecufneis, Sanflification and Redemption ; and 
upon this ground he is bound to give unto 
Go J a good conftru&ion in every fort of DHpen- 
fatiori toward him, and look upon God as his 
Friend and Father. 

CHAP. V. 

Wherein the Regenerat Mans doubting of his Rcge- 
titration, becaufe hefindeth no power in himfelfto 
Believe in ChrijI, u anfwered. 

SOmetime it ccmeth to pafs, that the renewed 
Man, after a long time ftandinginthe ftate 
of Grace, falleth in doubt about the work 
of Grace in himfelf, becaufe when God doth 
change His Dlfbenfation toward him,and bringeth 
him to trial by Trouble, wherein he is found 
weaker then he expected, he begineth to fufpedi: 
whether the former work of Grace hath been 
found omot,and his P v eafon is\becaufe hefindeth 
by Experience often repeated, that in Straits and 
DilHeu!ties when he would moft exercife Faith 
and Believe in Chnit, he is found lead able to 
do it ; yea, he findcth it nalcfsimpoffibleto ob- 
serve the whole Moral Law, then folidly to be- 
lieve in Chrift : Hence arifeth Anxiety iti the 
Soul of the Aiflicted, while he neither dare de- 
part from Chril^nor yet is able to approach unto 
Him confidently, In this caie many new Doubts | 

and 



BOOK II. [3**1. CHAP. V. 

Temptations do arifc.which weaken his Faith 
vet more, and hinder him in the o Re- 

ligion and difchargc of Duties not a little. 

Thac chis fometimemav Be the cale of fomc 
Convctted,thc experience ofthe Saints, fee down 
in Scripture maketh evident Ff. 30. 7. Lordftith 
David, by Thy Favour Thou had made my Mountain 
to ft.wd ftro?:?; Thou didfl hide Thy Face and I was 
rr^/^.Aftdinhis Prayer// 7 / 61. z.) while. his 
Maid was overwhelmed in him with perplexing 
Thoughts, he findetb in himielf no Strength or 
Ability to deliver himielf, or .put forth Ads of 
Faith on the Mediator, as he wouid have done, 
butprayeth, that while he is now exiled and 
driven far off from the Tabernacle and Ark of the 
Covenant, he may be raifed up to believe in Him 
who was fignifiedby thefe Tipes, to wit, Chrift 
the Rock of all Salvation .- which Rock of 
Salvation, he pcrceiveth to be a higher My- 
ftery than he can difcovcr or afcend upon, 
without the Hand of divine power. And there- 
fore faith, from the end of the Earth y will I 
cry unto Thee when my Heart is overwhelmed, 
lead me to the Rock that is higher then I. Yea, 
the Gojly afHided Hebrews fell in this ficknefs, 
whom the Apodle exhorteth to rake courage 
unto them, Heb. n. n, 13. Wherefore lift up 
'your Hands which hang down , axd the feeble Knees, 

I and make Jlraight paths for your Feet. 
2. For anfweringof this Doubt, the afflrdicd 
Pcrfon muft be convinced of his Infirmity and 



3 Ht* 



BOOK If. [ 356 ] CHAP, \ 

fmful Diffidence, becaufe being called of Go< 
to the exercife and trial of his Faith in Chrift b' 
whatlocver fort of Trouble, he hath been dii 
couraged and fainted, which did not become 

Souldier of Chrift, and that for no other pre 
tended rcafon but this, that he could nc 
give fuch a proof of his Faith as he ftioul 
have given and hoped to give, before he wa 

.put to trial. 

Secondly , He mull confider how far he ism: 

en in leaning to his own tlrength, in the Exei 

cue of his Faith-of which Self-confidence the mor 

2 Man is emptied, the morefpeedily he fliallb 

.•furni (lied, if being emptied he fly to Chrift for Sy\ 
ply. This was the Experience oftheApofti 
z Cor. 1%. 10. who was made weak in himfe 
taai the Strength of Chrift might be made pe 
ft- 1: in his Weaknck; and therefore he reiolve 
to make ufc p|chg 'kengm of Chrift in all his fc 
vmjtics,andchat he did, with good fuccel 
For when I am weak, iaich hc r then am I {Iron 
Whole example we muft refoive to follow. 
Thirdly After icarch, it will be found, thattl 

• Per (on a-Hidted, under the notion and expreffic 
of Xqamwt Iclicvch^in, in ekeih this meaning 
cannot find firch a ft: II ailurauce ofFaith as 1 wou 
be at; or, I cannot find fuch a ienie of the A 
prbbatioii of my Faith as can fatisfie me, ar 
peruva.ie me chat I do believe really in Chri 
And Co it is another thing, and another Gift 

£h<b Spirit lie is feeiurig, than what he prccende 



BOOK ]V [ &f ] CHAP. V. 

ro feck : For, the fenic and feeling of appro- 
val Faith and full aJiurance of Faith is not gi- 
ven to every Believer, but to him that rights 
the fight of Faith, and in his Trials adhered] 
clofely to Chrift and to His truth, when he 
is tempted to fin, as the Clauie in the clollc of 
the (even Epiftles to the Churches of Afia doth 
teach us, Rev. 2. 3, To him that overcometh 
I will give to eat of the Tree of Life, to eat of 
that hid Manna ; /will give him that white Stone., 
and a new Name written thereon, which no Man 
kmweth fave he' that receiveth it. 

Fourthly, The AiiMed mull be intruded or 
put in mind ' to diitinguifh between believing 
in Chrift, and the knowing that he doth be- 
lieve in Chrift, as may be learned from 1. Job. 
5*. 13. The fe things I write to you, that believe 
on the Name' of the Son of God, that you may 
know 'that yen have eternal Life ; and that ye 
may -believe on the Name of the Son of God. He 
muft diftinguiih between true (though weak ) 
favntg Faith and ftrong Faith. True laving 
Faith is in that Perfon, who, being purfued by 
the Law, doth fly for Refuge to lay hold u- 
pou Chrift the Hope fct before us. The Mail 
that dwelleth in this City ofChrift, and makem 
life ofChrift as the only Remedy againft Sin 
and Milery,as He is offered to us in the Gofpcl, 
hath right unto the ftrong and well grounded 
Confolation fpoken of, Heb. 6. 17. 18. 19. True 
and laving Faith is in that perfoii^whoack.^ i 

Z 4 



BOOK II. [ 358 ] CHAP. V. 

ledging himfelf a Child of Wrath, heartily re- 
ceived! the Lord Jefus Chrift, as He oftereth 
Himfelf to us in the Gofpel: For, fucha Perfon 
hath the Right and Priviledge of a Child of God, 
and may reckon himfelf among Believers in 
Chrift, Job. 1. 12. As many as received Chrift, 
to them gave He power to become the Sous of Go J, 
even to them that believe in HtsN&me, True and 
Saving Faith is in that Perfon, who, being con- 
vinced of his Entmity agiinft God, doth anfwer 
thcRequcft of God in Chrift, in the Mouth of 
His Miniftcrs with a hearty confenc unto the 
Covenant of Grace and Reconciliation offered to 
all that hear the Gofpel, % Cor. $> 19. 2,0. God 
was in Chrift, reconciling the World unto Himfelf \not 
imputing their Trefpqffes unto them ; and hath com- 
mitted unto us the Word of Reccnciliation.Now then we 
are Em b a (fa dors for Chrift, as though God did be- 
feech you by us, we fray you in Chrift' s fie ad be ye 
reconciled unto God: for He hath made Him ("that 
is, Chrift) to be Sin for us, who knew no Sin, that 
ire might /e made the Right eoufnefs of God in 
ffihk Therefore let the Affii&ed anfwer thus, 
I receive the Operand do content, upon thete 
Terms to be reconciled to God, Lord help my 
Unbelief ; for, Thou haft faid, feekye-My Face ; 
and my Soul anfwereth, Thy Face Lord will I 
Jeekfi'devot Thy Face from me, PC 3.7. 8. 9. He 
that upon thete Terms doth fly to Chrift, and 
rcfolveth to adhere untoHim,needeth not doubt 
bur he is received in the ftatc of Grace : for, 

Cone 



BOOK II. [ 359 ] CHAP. VI 

Confirmation whereof, let the Fruits of Faith 
outward and inward, which may be obferved by 
the Afflicted himfclf, or by his Comforter, be 
called to Mind, and let hi m reft and go on in 
the courfe of Obedience of the Gofpel. 

CHAP. VI. 

Wherein the Doubt of the Regenerat Man, concerning 
his being in the ft ate of Grace, arifngfrom his ap- 
prehended defeit of Humiliation and Sorrow for 
Sin, is anfwercd, 

SOme Regcnerat Perfons will be found, who 
mourn indeed for their Sin, and do ac- 
knowledge, that they deferve Death for 
their Sins, do confefs they ftandinneedofChrift, 
do thirft for His Righteoufnefs, do defire ear- 
neftly to be united unto Him by Faith,do follow 
the cxercife of Religion, and do endeavour to 
keep their Coniciences undcrillcd in ail things; 
and yet for all this, do not only doubt whether 
they berencwed,but alfo do erteemit a prefump- 
tuous Rafhnefe in them to approach untoChriit, 
or to caftthemfelves over on Him by Faith,before 
they be more ferioufly Humbled, before they 
feel a more hearty Sorrow and Gricf,beforc they 
feel the Pangs of the New- birth more fharp,before 
they be more prciled with the burden of their 
Sins, and do feel in thcmfelves the Spirit of Fear 
wd Trembling and Bondage in a higher meafure. 

From 



pOOK II. [ 360 ] CHAP. " VJ. 

From whom,if you ask a realbn oftheir doubt, 
they fhall anfwcr, That they are not yet cal- 
led to come unto Chrift/ bccabfe thefe are only' 
called to come unto Chrift, who are weary and ' 
laden in the fuperlative degree, and are fo born 
down with the weight of Sin, as they cannot be 
more, and not defpair ; for fo do they interpret 
that' Spying of Chrift, Matth. 11. 2,8. Chrift is 
lent only to the Contrite and broken in Heart, 
who fit in theDuft, under the Spirit of Bondage, 
that is to fay, as they take it, to them who are 
under Grief unipc.akable, as they expound, / 
61. 1, 2, 3. So in their opinion, Chrift came to 
Save only thofe who in their own fenfe are loft, , 
that is, who are on the brink of Dtfperationlf 
Wherefore, in refped: they are not gone down 
deep enough, as they think, into this Gulf an^- 
Hell of An£uifh and Sorrow, they dare not. ap- 
proach or look toward Chrift. 

Mean time they ly daily Mourning and Weep- 
ing, and will nor grant that their Grief is worthy 
of the Name of Grief; which Sorrow they can- 
not difieroble or hide, but do bewray it in their 
Countenance, Habit,Walking and frequent Sigh- 
ing, and will profefs, that they can hardly think- 
they have Right td eat or drink of God's Crea- 
tures, and were it not for fear of adding yet more 
Sin to the former, they would not eat or drink 
at all: Oft-times they chatter as Swallows, and 
figh as the Turtle Dove, and oft-times their Bo- 
wels found out, as if their Parents, or Children, 

or 



BOOK II. [ 361 ] CHAP. Vf. 

or neareft Relations were dead, and yet for ail 
this do not fatisfy themfelves in Sorrow, but do 
complain that they are ftupid and fenfelcfs of their 
finful and miferable Condition, wherein they ^o ly 
bound: And though they do confefs, that fom> 
times they Mourn,yet they ailedge their Mour- 
ning is but like the early Devv.,or Morning Cloud, 
that goeth foon away.Ail the while it is in vain 
to offer to the Afflicted Confolation in Chrift, 
becaufe (faith he) lam not one of the Mourners 
in Sion, whom He will comfort : And in this their 
.Miftake, they do confirm themfelves by another 
Error,fay ing,That the meafure of Repentance and 
Sorrow fhouid anfw r er unto the meafure of Sin; 
my Sins,faith he,go far beyond the Sins of others. 

This and the likeObje&ions they call in,where- 
by they do obftrud their own way unro Chad, 
and keep themfelves aback from Him, till they 
be fatisfied with their own-preferibed ineafureof 
Sorrow; which Cafe indeed deferveth much com- 
; paifion : For who would not comrniferate their 
Cafe, who, being in a very miferable con J Irion, 
dare not feck relief from their own Mifery which 
they do feel, and ail becaufe they are not yet 
more miferable? and when they are asked, can- 
not determine what mealiire of aife&ed Ha- 
miliaiion they wouid (land at asluffitcienc. 

2. In the Cure of this Cafe, as much muft be 
yielded to the Affiled, as reafonably can be: 
And Fir ft , It muft be coiifciTcd, that it is the 
Duty of all who approach unto Chrift, to come 

in 



BOOK n. [ 362 ] CHAR vr. 

iii the fenf: of Sin, and acknowledgement of their 
miferable condition, and that the due deferving 
of their Sin, is everlafting Death. 

It mu(l be confefled alio, that the rneafure of 
Compunction, Contrition and Lamentation for 
Sin, may poffibly be exceeding great, as we 
in the experience of Herman the Ezrute, Pj. 8d. 
I / . I am affliilcA and ready to die from my Tcith 
up ; while IfiJjerThy Terrors / am difiralied. And 
David, Pfal. 38. 

This alfo further mud be yielded unto him, 
that the Operation of the Spirit of Convi&ion by 
the Law, doth ordinarily,and of its own Nature, 
go before the Spirit of Adoption, or the Opera- 
tion of the Spirit of the Golpel, according to 
the Covenant of Grace, fo that no Man can in 
carneft embrace Chrift as a Phyfician, as Media- 
tor and Saviour of his Soul, except he be fenfible 
of his Difeafe, acknowledge his natural Enmity 
against God, and his own loft Condition, being 
by Nature under thcCurfe of the Law. 

Secondly, When thefe Things are agreed upon, 
the afliiited Perfon may be poled concerning the 
mcafure of the Sorrow forSin,whetheritmuft be 
the fame in every Convert, to wit, in that extre- 
mity and fupcriative degree, which he doth mils 
and defiderat in himlelf, and how long that Sor- 
row in this eminent meafurc mu ft continue? By 
this Qucftion he cannot choofe but be at a (land, 
and unable to anfwer with Scripture- warrand: for 
the Scripture doth indeed require fcrious Repen- 
tance 



BOOK II. [ 363 ] CHAP. VI. 

tance, but the mcafurc of Sorrow and Sadnefs, 
it dock not prefenbe: For Matth. Ch. 3. V. 1, 6. 
many upon the hearing of John Baptift Preaching, 
were convi&ed of their Sins,and did confefs their 
Sins in the general, and forth-with were Bapti- 
zed by him. And Ail. z. 37. 41. Three Thou- 
fand Souls at the hearing of one Sermon of Peter, 
were convinced of their Sin, pricked at the Heart, 
Repented and Fled to Chrift for Gracc,were Con- 
verted, Baptized and entered Members of the 
Chriftian Church, all in one day. Again, the 
Afflided may be pofed with another Qucftion, 
(eing he defiderats fuch a mcafure offound 
hearty Sorrow in himfelf before he can make 
his Addrefs unto Chrift, out of what Fountain 
mindeth he to draw this forrow > of himfelf he 
hath it not, and from Chrift by his Grounds he 
cannotfeek it: For he faith, for want of his ima- 
gined meafure of Sorrow for Sin he dare not ap- 
proach unto Chrift,becaufc,as he alledgeth,none 
are called to come unto Chrift, except fuch only 
as are inafuperlative degree weary and loaden, 
and fo full of the Spirit of Heavinefs,that he muft 
be at the point of Defperation near by. But 
the Scripture doth teach us, that Chrift is that 
exalted Prince to give Repentance unto Ifracl 
in what mcafure of Sorrow He plcalcth; and 
that therefore, fuch as arc convinced of, and 
in any mcaftirc forrowful for offending God, 
lhould run unto Chrift, that He may give them 
abetter meafure of PvCpcntance. 

third' 



BOOK II. [ 364] CHAP. VI, 

Thirdly, The Evils and Danger which accom- 
pany and follow upon this practical Error, may 
be reprefented unto the Afflicted : For firft, by 
this his Error he giveth way to Satan's Tentation, 
who when he perceiveth the fenfe of Sin begun 
in the A Aided by God's Mercy, and that the 
Afflided cannot now be hindered from Repen- 
tance, nor be keeped in his former Snare, doth 
change himfelf as if he were an Angel of Light, 
and letteth all at nought the meafure of Sorrow 
which the Afflided hath already, and fhews un- 
to him, how unanfwerable the proportion of his 
Sorrow is unto the multitude and hainoufiiefs of 
his Sins.and fo fpurreth him on to Mourn more 
ana tnore,that if it be poffiblc he may diftemper 
and diftrad him, or make him pine away and 
periih in his Sorrow,without Faith or Confoiation 
inChnft: This is one Evil. 

Another Evil is this, the affedation of fuch a 
degree of Sorrow, fmelieth of feeking fome fort 
of Expiation of Sin,and Conipenfation cf the plca- 
lure taken in Sin, by fuitabie Sorrow for it : 
Unro which pradical Error, we are by Nature 
too too prone: For as by Nature we drive to be 
juftified by Works, according to the Covenant of 
Works, written in the Children of A Jam; fo when 
we fee our felvescome fhortof the Righteoufnefs 
of Works, we go about (as is to be iken in Pa- 
pijls) to fupply the defed of Works, by fome 
one fort or other of our Sufferings and Satisfa- 
ctions for Sin, in fpecial, that by Sorrow and 

Teats 



BOOK II. [ 36s ] CHAP. VI. 

Tears in abundance, we may wafh away the 
Guilt and Pollution wc have contracted by Sin 
And in this Courfe we run on naturally, after 
wakening of the Confidence, to exadt Pennancc 
and Punifhmenton our (elves, till the deluded 
-Heart fay, it is enough. And then, as if all 
were well, the deceived Sinner refteth himfelf: 
.Which deceit of the Heart, theoftcner it hath 
place and prevaileth, without-being obferved, it 
•is the more dangerous. 

A Third Evil, following on this practical Er- 
ror, is, by it the free Grace of God and Merits 
of Chrift, are greatly obfeured, and both the 
Man s Confolation and Sanihhcationare marred: 
The lofs that the Afflicicd fu'ftaineth on the one 
hand, and tha drawing on of new Guiltinefs by 
fuch a courfe on the other hand, is covered un- 
der the vizard of Humiliation. 

A Fourth Evil followcth this Error, which is 
this,the afflicted Perfon, fo long as he continueth 
in this,Miilake, he giveth way to the Testation, 
and doth of fet purpofe fofter his own Misbelief, 
that he may thereby fofter and augment his own 
Sorrow,and afright himfelf with dreadful Imagi- 
nations what Jliall become of him, that he may 
augment his afti&fcd Heavinefs ofSpirit,and make 
the Fountain of hjs.Tears run the more abundantly. 

A Fifth Evil is, the AfHi&ed folong as he fuY- 
pends his going toChrift,becaufe he hath not mom- 
ned fuifiaently for Sm, he foftcrs another Fault 
unawars.to \vit r a purpofe to lay down any more 

for- 



BOOK II. [ 366 ] CHAP. VI. 

Forrowing for Sin, if once he had overtaken his 
imagined meafurc of Sorrow, and had his accefs 
fo made unto Chrift. This Deceit of the Heart, 
is brought to light in the pra&icc of forne Anti- 
vomians, who allow thcmfelves once to mourn for 
Sin,that their Mourning may make way for Faith 
in Chrift ; but after they apprehend they have 
once Repented, and caften their Burden on Chrift, 
and do number themfelves among Believers,they 
fcorn to mourn any more for Sin, they harden 
themfelves againft all Remorfe of Confcience, 
and do reje&fecret Challenges asgroundlefs,and 
make themfelves merry with their own Fancy, 
and reckon all Penitents to be under the Spirit 
of Bondage: Which Evils, if the afflicted Pcrfon 
would perceive to follow upon his Error, which 
as a Net is fpred before his Feet/ to keep him 
from going to Chrift, and following the courfc 
and exercif e of Repentance all the d ay s of his Life, 
he would take heed better to his fteps. 

4. The Afflu9:ed muft be informed, or called to 
mind concerning Sorrow for Sin, that it is nor 
commended from the quantity or meafure of it* 
but from the quality or fincerity of it. Now fin- 
cere Sorrow for Sin, is beft difcerned by the ha- 
tred which the Mourner hath againft Sin, by 
the Mourners humiliation of himfelf before 
God, by his abhorring himfelf both for his 
Sin, and for the hardnefs of his Heart under 
Sin, by his purpofe to drive againft all Sin, by 
his flying in unto Chrift for Pvdief from Sin, by 

hit 



BOOK If. [ 367 ] CHAP. VI. 

his entertaining and renewing of godly Sorrow 
after he hath believed in Chrift, according as he 
findeth the inherent Roots of Sin to be (pringing 
up in him. This is indeed fincere and godly 
Sorrow; which caufeth Repentance never to bo 
repented of. 

5. Fifthly, and lafi of all, The Affli&ed muft 
be exhorted not to linger any more but fly to 
Chrift, and let him be humbled Co much the 
more, as he is not (o humbled as he ihould and 
would be; let him call to mind,that Chrift came 
not only to comfort Mourners for Sin,but alfoto 
call Sinners unto Repentance: For,Chrifthath not 
put fiich a rneafure of Sorrow, whereof we are 
(peaking, to be the condition of the Covenant of 
Grace, He doth not fell His precious Wares, nor 
His Gifts of Grace, for the Price of Men s Tears; 
but let him remcmber,that whofoever is fo defti- 
tutc in his own fenfe of all Good, as he finds 
neither the fenfe of Sin,nor Repentance, nor Faith, 
nor any other good thing in himfelf, which may 
commend him to God, but by the contrair, 
much Evil of all forts, and yet cometh to Chrift, 
is no doubt the Poor in Spirit, whom Chrift hath 
pronounced BUfled, Matth j. 3. and that the 
fenfe of his Sin and Mifery, in the mieafure 
which he hath of ic, is the Evidence of the 
Eye-falve already beftowod upon him, to en- 
courage him to buy of Chrift all the Riches 
which He holdcth forth to the Poor in Spi- 
rit, Revel, 3. 18. 

A a CHAR 




BOOK IT. [368] CHAP. VII. 

C H A P. Vil. 

Wherein the Chriftian's Doubt, whether he he Re- 
generat, hecauje he findeth not his Right eottfnefs 
exceeding the Right eoufnefs of the Scribes and 
Pharifces, is anfwered. 

Heie are forne Regenerat Perfons, who, 
in the fenfeof their Sins, and acknow- 
ledgement of cheir Uuworthinefs.and Ina- 
bility to help themfelvcs,arefled unto Chrift,and 
have given over themfelves to Him by Faith and 
are endeavouring to bring forth Fruits futeable to 
Repentance, who for all this, fall a doubting 
whether they be renewed, whether their Faith 
be true and faving Faith; and the reafon which 
they give of their doubting, is, becaufe the Re- 
formation of their Life, whereunto they havs at- 
tained, appeareth unto them not to exceed the 
Righteoufnefs which may be found in fome Pa- 
gans, or in Scribes and Fharifees, of whom Chrift 
hath (aid iii the Evangel, Mattb. 5-. 20. I fay tin- 
to yoii^that except your R'nhtezufr.efs exceed the 
Righteeufiefs of the Scribes and Tharifees, ye fhah 
in no cafe enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. 

This Doubr is followed with'Grief, Anxiety oi| 
Mind. and fear Jeft all Vermes in them be founc 
nothing but counterfeit; and in this cafe, except 
it be fpeedily cured, cannot chufe but draw af 
tcr it heavy and hard Confequences. 

For curing whereof werjratt confeis, that ma 
By Pagans and Infidels may be found in human' 

Hi 



BOOK. II. [ 369 ] CHAP. VII 

Hiftories,who from the Principles of Nature and 
civil Education, have led a more innocent and 
plamelefs Life, than many who glory in their 
ChrijlLw Profeffion, for whole conviction and 
condemnation Pagans and Infidels lhall arifein the 
day of)udgement,and be brought forth for a Wit- 
nefs againft many called Chrfflians ,and who lhall 
be beaten with fewer Stripes, than many who 
are counterfeit Chri-lians, and do difgrace the 
Profeffion of Omflian Religion. 

But we have here to do with thefe that are 
indeed Regenerat, and indued with laving 
Faith, who endeavour to be Holy, and do la- 
ment their Imperfections, and do not give over 
the ufe of the Means, whereby they may profit 
in Holinefs, albeit with Grief and Fear they go 
on heavily; fufpeding they meet at laft with 
difappointmeht and be excluded from the King- 
dom of Heaven, for their coming fhort oiScrihes 
and Pharifees in the point of Righteoufiie'fe, 

% In this cafe, FJrfl, The Complaint of the 
Afflicted, concerning the Imperfections of his 
Life and Fruits of Faith, in as far as it is true 
andjtft, muftbc admitted, granted and con* 
firmed, and the Afflicted nauit be taught upon 
this confideration to be ferioufiy humbled in the 
prefence of God, that he may profit in Self-deni- 
al, and more and more renounce all confidence 
in his own Works or inherent Righteoufneis, 
To which purpolejethim confider yet moreths 
body of Death and original Sin, notyetttai-ghiy 



ii 



A a 1 mor- 



BOOK ft [370} CHAP. VIL 

mortified in him; let him look upon and acknow- 
ledge, in his prefcnt cafe, the bitter Roots of 
Infidelity and Inclination to depart away from 
the lmngGod,eTen then when he is moil called, 
and hath mod need to draw near and adhere un- 
toHim: Upon the fight and confideration where- 
of, he lhall perceive a ncceffity daily to renew 
die ads of Repentance and Faith in Ghrift. 

Secondly, Let the ncceffity and timeous ufe- 
makingof the imputed Righteoufnefs of Chrift 
be fhewed unto him : which Righteoufnefs, if 
the Lord had not fct before us for a refuge, what 
fhould become of us in the examination of our 
Works, and felt imperfe&ion of our inherent 
Righteoufnefs ? And here the AfRi&cd muft be 
exhorted, in the ienfe of his own urirightiouf- 
nefs, to run always toward Chrift, to have his 
Nakcdnefshid by the Garment of Chtift's, im- 
puted Righteoufheis, and exhorted to apply and 
imbrace more and more ftraidy the Righteoufc 
nefs of Chrift our Cautioner, Who is judicially 
by die Father adjudged to the Believer fled unto 
Him for Righteoufnefs, 1 Cor. 1. ^o.Eut of him 
are ye in Chr'tfl Jefus, who ?s made unto us Wifdcm 
and Righteoufnejs, and Sanclification and Redemp- 
tion. And here let the Friend,Comforter of the 
Afflj&ed, infift, that he may confider the value 
of theranfom paid for us, andoftheRighteouf- 
nefs purchaied unto us, for the cuiIy Garment 
able to hide our Nakednefs. 

Third- 



BOOK II. [ 371 I CHAP. VII 

thirdly, Let the affli&cd Perfon undcrftand, 
that it is Rightcoufiiefs with God to be difplca- 
fed with His Children, when they efteem little, 
and make little ufc of the dear bought Rightcouf* 
nefs which Chrift hath purchafbd, and in that 
Wifciom and Rightcoufiiefs, Chrift doth not in- 
creafe the inherent Rightecuftefe of thofe who 
flight Him in the matter of His imputed Righ- 
teoufnefs ; for, we are not juftified by the Per- 
fection of inherent PJghteoufnefs, which in this 
Life isimpofliblc;bi:t by the Perfection of Chrift's 
Rigbteoufncfs imputed unto the Believer m Him. 

Fourthly, When the Paftor or prudent Friend 
pcrceiveth the Afflidcd new convicftcd of his 
Miftakc and Error,and to be brought to acknow- 
ledge that the J uftification of a Sinner doth come 
by the imputation of the Righteoufbefs of Chrift 
alone, without refpedt to the Works of the Law; 
and that the juftified Man muftfethimfelf to bring 
forth good Fruits in the gracious furniture which 
Chrift hath promifed to the Believer, Now, I 
lay, let him enter upon the companion of the 
Rightcoufiiefs of the penitent Believer in Chrift, 
with the Pvighteoufnets of the Scribes ao& Pha~ 
r/fees, and then it Rial! be clear to the afflidtcd 
Perfon, that the RighteouGiefs of die weak Chri- 
fllan fhall far exceed the Righteoufnefs, not 
only of Pagans, but alio of Scrttes and Pharisees 
of the higheft pitch, and that for three ReaiPns ; 
The Firjt, is this, The Pharifee cutteh fhort 
the Interpretation of the Law, unto the meaiure 

of 



BOOK II. [ 372 ] CHAP. VII. 

of his own external obedience, left the Law 
whereby hefeeketh Justification lliould Condemn 
him : But the Chriftian acknowledgeth in all 
things the Spirituality and Perfection of the Law, 
and doth not reject any Duty which the Law 
doth command, but finds himfclf bound to o- 
bey the Law in all things, and to aim to be per- 
fect as his Heavenly Father is perfect. The Se* 
cend Reafon is, Becaufe the Works which the 
Pharifeeox Scnhe doth, are all Counterfeit and 
Corrupt,in regard they arife from the ftrength of 
the natural Man, and are done for his own Glory 
and carnal Ends, and not for the Glory of God; 
but the Works of the Chriftian, excrcifmg Faith 
in Chrift, proceed from the power of the Spirit 
of Chrift in him, and are done to the Glory of 
God by him. The Third Reafon is, becaufe the 
Righteoufnefs of Works which the Scrihes and 
Pharifeesdid a9e&at, is altogether impoffible/artti 
roaketh void the Grace of God: For, if Righteous 
nefsbe by Works, it is no more of Grace, it over- 
turns thatHeavenly way of juftification by Faith 
in Chrift : For, the Righteoufhefs of the Than- 
fee by Works, cannot confift with the Righteouf- 
nefs Which is by Faith of Grace; but the 
Rjghteoufnefs and Juftification of the Chriftian 
by Faith in Chrift, is podible and ready at hand, 
to every one who renoun-ceth all confidence iti 
his own worthineft, and flieth unto Chrift for 
Grace: And this is a moil perfed way of Righte- 
R«6ie|s, which dependcth upon the Obedience 

and 



BOOK II. [ 373 ] CHAP. VII. 

and Satisfaction of Chrift imputed to the Believ- 
er in Him. Which Righteoufnefs only canftand 
in the Judgment of God as perfect, which only 
doth open tl^e Fountain, whereby the power of 
the Holy Ghoft runneth down upon the Man 
juftified by Faith in Chrift, no enable him to 
bring forth the acceptable fruits of new Obe- 
dience. 

By this Companion, it doth eafily appear,that 
the Righteoufnefs of the weak Believer in Chrift, 
doth far exceed the Righteoufnefs of thcScr/fejr 
and Pbarifees; and thus may the Afflicted be fol- 
ved of his Doubt, arifmg from companion of his 
Righteoufnefs with the Righteoufnefs of the 
Fhar/fees. 

3. If thefe Grounds of Satisfaction, laid be- 
fore the Aiilicted, donotfatisfy, but his Wounds 
do break up and bleed a frefh, let us examine 
his Reafons. O! faith he, what 1 have been 
aiming at in the way of new Obedience, 1 fa- 
fpect is not accepted of God, becaufel find not 
thefe Fruits of the Spirit, which the Apoftlc 
ipcakerh of as evidences of a new Creature, Gal. 
y, zz. Love, joy, Peace, Long-iufycring, Gen- 
denefs, Gocdnefs, Faith, Mcckneis and Tempe- 
rance; the defect and little feeling of thefe Fruits, 
doth argue, that God doth not approve my 
Works. 

For anfwering of this doubt, let us remember, 
that it ispre-fuppofed and found by Experience, 
fhat feme that are afflicted with this Doubf 

A a a ■ tavi 



book ii. [ 374 ] chap. vn. 

ana .Wpicion, do not eeafe to follow Duties 
howbeit heartlefly, do live blamelefs in an evil 
World, and fo are not idle nor unfruitful: Only 
this doth trouble t\iem, that they find not the 
Peace of Conscience which they did expe&, they 
mifsjoy in God, Confolation in their Prayers, 
Patience in Affedicns, Chearfblnefs and Alacri- 
ty in following their Calling; they do not find 
fenfible approbation of their Work from God, 
as they did promife to themfelves and did ex- 
ped. Hence flow their -Tears, Lamentations 
and Complaints of themfelves, and Sulpicions 
of the reality and fincerity of their Faith, and all 
without j'uft caufe : For, as in bodily Sickneiles, 
fometime moe Maladies then one are eomplicat, 
and to each of them refped: muft be had forper^ 
fedting the Cure; fo in this Cafe, moepradicai 
Errors do concur, and eachef them muu: be de- 
ciphered and removed. We fhall condefcend 
upon Four; The Firft practical Error of the Af- 
flicted, is the fufpending of his Faith upon a ta- 
cite condition, that fuch and fuch Effe<fi$ be pro- 
duced, and that Gods fenfible approbation ofhis 
Diligence and Works be felt, as if there were 
no warrantable act of Faith for laying hold on 
Chrift, except after a certain time and trial taken 
whether it (hall produce fuch or fuch Fruits or 
not. And here Three Deceits do concur; The 
Firft is, a Faith with a fecret Refervation 
;h fruits follow , is by fuggeftion of the 
Tempter, chruft in, in the place of ablblute 
: * be- 



BOOK II. [375] CHAP. VII. 

believing without Refervation, and in effedr, is 
a trying of God, in ftead of trufting in Him; for 
through Temptation , the Aiih&ed tacitly crav- 
eth a Condition to be performed by God, that 
when God performeth the preferibed Condition, 
then theMan's Faith after that may reft uponHim, 
othcrways not : For when a Sinner cometh to 
Chrift, he fliould fpeak to this fenfe. " O Lord 
'• my God, feing it hath pleafed Thee to reveal 
" Thy Self to me, a blind impotent Sinner,run- 
" ning toward Hell,and haft offered Thy Self to 
" niefora Saviour, in Whom I may have Wit 
" dom, Righteoufnefs, Sandtification and Re- 
ft demption. Behold, O Lord, I heartily receive 
" the Grace offered, I imbraje Thy Word, and 
" Thy Self offered to me in Thy Word,and do 
" give up my felf wholly to Thy Government, 
" that Thou may repair in me the loft Image of 
•-■ God,and powerfully carry me on unto Saiva- 
? tion. In ftead of faying thus, and clofing abfo- 
lutely the Bargain with God in Chrift reconcil- 
ing the World to Himfelf, the Tempter would 
have the poor afflicted Man to fpeak, as it were 
to this fenfe. " O Lord, the Condition whete- 
' uporiThoudoft oficr to be myGod andSaviomr, 
" doth pleafe me well, but becaufe I fear I may 
" deceive my felf in performing that Condition, I 
P require another Condition of Thee, that Thou 
" wpuldeft, firft, let me fee the Fruits of Faith 
' in me, which ifl fliall find within fome tiaie 
[' hence, then will I count my felf a Believer, 

and 



BOOK n. [ 376 ] CHAP. VII. 

** and will reft on Thee : But if I find not fuch 
" Fruits as may evidence true Faith in me, I 
" muft pronounce my Faith, either no Faith, or 
** a dead Faith, which hath a name of Faith, 
"' but neither Power nor Life in it. For Faith 
" without Works is dead, as James faith,Ch .z.z6. 

Now, what is this clfe in e2ed, then to make 
a new Condition in the Covenant of Grace, and 
to promife upon this Condition, to believe on 
Chrift, if God fhall do as the Sinner givech Him 
dire&ion ? that is, if God ilia 11 make him bring 
forth the Fruits of Faith firft, when it became 
him abfolutely to imbrace Chrift, that he might 
both be forgiven of Sin, and enabled to bring 
forth fruits of Faitly 

Another Fault is here alfo, which is this, the 
affad:ed Perfon doth require mature Fruits from 
a weak Faith, from a Faith that is not fettled and 
fixed, but fufpended Qn a Condition, which is 
110 lets unreafonabic, than if a fooiifti Gardner 
fhould require Fruits of a young Tree lately 
planted, yea, before the Roots of it were well 
fettled in the ground • yaa, and would not let it 
Hand in his Garden, except it iliould firft bring 
forth Fruits, whereby it might evidence it (elf 
worthy of Pains caking on it. 

A third Fault is this, that the Afflicted, in this 
cafe, cloth pre-fuppofe, that true Faith is pofteri* 
or to the Fruits of true Faith, both in Nature 
j&rid Time; For, if he will nor believe in Chrift, till 
after he perceive and feeiin himfeif the Fruits of 

Faith, 



BOOK II. [ 377 ] CHAP. VII. 

Faith, upon this ground he can never Believe till 
he firft find the Fruits of Faith in himfelf, which 
is nothing eife in effed: than to imagine, that 
the Effedi muft go before its Caule. 

Unto this Threefold Self-deceit, we offer this 
one Remedy in general, that the afitidted Per- 
{'on in the forefaid Cafe, humble himfclf before 
God in the fenfeofhis Barrennefs, and fo much 
the more as he findeth fmall or no Fruits in him- 
fclf, let him fly to Chrift and taften himfclf the 
more on His imputed Righteouihefs, and cleave 
unto Him by Faith, without delay, that he may 
drawvertue and furniture from Him to bring 
forth good Fruits; for, this is the only way to 
make Him bring forth Fruits in abundance, as 
Chnfl: doth teach us. Jnh. ij. f. He that abuleih 
in Me, and I in him y the fame bringeth forth much 
Fruit : for without Ale, ye can Jo nothing He, 
and He only, can make a good Tree of an evil 
Imp, and caufeit bring forth Fruits anfvverable 
to the nature of the true Vine wherein it is In- 
grafted. And icing Chrift in the Canticle, Ch. 2,. 
13. doth make no fmaii account of the green 
Figs and tender Grapes, let not the Auli&ed do 
fpifethe day of fmall Things. 

4. The Second pra&ical Error in the AfHici> 
ed's foreuiid Cafe,is this, the afflidcd Perfonhath 
imagined in liimfeif, that fuch and (uch Fruits 
would prefently follow upon his receiving the offer 
of Chrift, as that he fhauki forthwith be skiifal in 
the knowledge of thcMiftcrics ofSalvaao^abie ta 

pray 



BOOK n. [ 378 ] CHAP. VII. 

pray eloquently, made chearful in finging Songs 
of Praifc unto God, ready and expedit to every 
good Work, and that he fhould feel conftantly 
anun-interruptedPeacc in hisConfcience,and Joy 
in the Holy Ghoft; but after that by experience 
he hath found, that he cannot fo much as ester 
upon any good Work without a Fight with Sa- 
tan and with his own corrupt Nature, and other 
Impediments, and withal he doth feel the Peace 
of his Conference and the Joy of the Holy Ghoft 
with-drawn, hereupon he begins to fufped: the 
whole Work of God's Grace in himfelf, and 
that he remaincth in the (late of Nature un- 
renewed. 

5. For removing of this Error, let the Afflict- 
ed know, that the Hopes winch he hath conceiv- 
ed at the h«anng of the Gofpel, fliali not be dis- 
appointed (albeit according to his Childifli Fore- 
conception they come not to pafs ) for in a time 
due and acceptable,God ihail perform allHisPro- 
mifcs, and bring the Believer ( fled unto Him ) 
eaupon his way, till he put Him in full pclicf- 
fion of Freedom from all Sin and Mifery. But 
yet this Felicity is brought about, not all at once 
but piece and piece, and not without conflict 
wi:h the Enemies of our Salvation, and not with- 
out uie of the Means appointed of God. Where- 
fore let the AfHi&ed be exhorted to take courage 
unto him, asbccomcthaSouldier of Chriit, and 
let him go on in the ways of the Lord in Hope 
aad Patience, b^ing allured, that whatfover 

God 



BOOK II [379) CHAP. VII 

God hath promifed, He will furely perform, in 
that manner, meafure, order and time, and by 
His own appointed Means, as He hath fet down 
in His Holy Scriptures. 

6. The Third pra&ical Error of the Afflided 
in the forcfaid Cafe, is, that he doth not judge 
rightly of his own Faith, nor of the Fruits there- 
of : For of his own Faith he judgeth no other- 
ways than of the Faith of another Man, whileas 
there isadiverfe way to judge of my own Faith 
then of another Man's Faith; for becaufe I can- 
not reach to the internal A&s of the Soul of ano- 
ther Man, therefore I muft judge only by the 
outward Effects, according to the Rule that 
James giveth, Chap. 2, Ver. 10. Shew me thy 
Faith without thy Works, and I will fketv the my 
Faith by my Works. Yet of my own Faith I may 
judge, not only by the external Effects of it 
( which in the firft clofing with Chrift, are not 
yet obfervabie poffibly ) but aifo by the internal 
act of Faith,which the Holy Spirit, who knows 
the Heart, doth reveal unto me, by making me 
not only heartily to embrace Chrift offered in the 
Gofpel, and love Him, but alfo can make me re- 
flect and turn back mine Eye upon His own Gift 
and Grace in me, according tothatofthe Apoftle 
I Cor. 2. 1 2. We have received the Spirit of God \ 
that we might know the things freely given tons of God* 

Again the AtHicted doth not judge rightly of 
his own FiUics af Faith, according as the Truth 
is, and as the Lord in his Word doth judgt; he 

feould 



BOOK II. [380} CHAP. VII. 

Ihould diftingufli between the Sincerity of the 
Work and the perfection of it (a work may be 
done uprightly, and yet be imperfect) he Ihould 
diftinguifh what is God's part in the work, from 
that which is wrong and corrupt, flowing from 
the remainder of Sin in him. Thefe things 
he doth confound, and doth To fix his Eyes u- 
pon the defeats and imperfc&ion of his Work, 
that he feeth nothing but what is wrong, when 
it is his Duty both to obferve what is wrong, 
that he may humbled, and call away all confi- 
dence in his work, and to obferve a!fo what is 
good and right in his work, proceeding from the 
Grace of God in him, and fo Praife and Thank 
God for it in Chnft, ivho will not quench the 
jmoaking Flaxi I fa. 41. 3. 

7. For the remeay therefore of this Error, let 
the Affli6ted,firft,look upon the acts of his Faith 
both internal and external,both on the elicit Ads 
of Faith and theimperat Ads (as they are cal- 
led in the Schools) and let him judge of both ac- 
cording to what is right and equitable,that what- 
soever be the meafure of new Obedience, it may 
be differenced from the mixture of lnfirmity,De- 
fects, or Corruption. And let him not judge of 
his work according to the Suggestions & Calum- 
niesof Satan, who always condemneth fo far as 
he can, what is good in God's Children:or if he 
cannot condemn it,doth labour to have itabufed. 

Secondly. Let the Afflicted obferve the due order 
both in doing his duties and injudging thereof: 

for 



BOOK II. [ 3 8t ] CHAP. VII. 

for of necefiky he muft, Firft, put forth an act of 
Faith and Love on Chrift,before he can pafs judg- 
ment on it, and let him firft do the work com- 
manded to' the Believer, and then pafs Sentence, 
that he may be ftrcngthened to do moe Duties, 
and foto prefent them to God to be vvaihen ac- 
cepted and amended in his followihg fetvice, 

Thirdly, Let him carefully look unto the end 
which he mould propofe to himfelf in judging 
of his Acts of Faith, and Obedience; for the end 
of judging our felves and our works, fhould be 
to confirm our .Faith in Chrift, when we find 
any thing done according to the Rule, and to 
fly to Chrift for Pardon and Grace if we con- 
ceive all is wrong after we have examined matters 

6. The fourth practical Error, is, that the Af- 
flicted fnffcreth his Faith to be wounded and 
weakened by Satans Tentation, and then to be 
drawn forth to the Field to give a proof of the 
ftrength of his Faith in a difficile duty, before 
the wound of Faith be bound up or healed; for, 
it is agreat difodvantagc to enter the lifts with 
Satan about thfc Fruits of Faith, whether they be 
fincereor not when Faith is wounded,yea,fainteth 
and is brought in q.ueftion whether it be true 
faith or not. Now this isafpecial Stratagem 
and Wile ofSatan, by whatfoevcr Mean he can, 
to flurt the Faith of Gods Children, that he 
may by that marr Communion keeping with 
God, and cutoff, if he can, the conduit where- 
by the power of Chrift is conveyed to the Be- 
lt. 



BOOK II [ 3 8x ] CHAP. VII. 

liver for making him give acceptable •bedience 
unto God. And certainly, it isnolefs difficile 
when Faith is wrefted,andforatimeoutofjoint, 
to fet about acceptable Service, then it is to make 
a Man to fet upon his work when his Arms 
are out of joynt. 

Therefore, for Remedy of this Error, let the 
Afflicted,fo foon as he findeth his Faith wounded, 
incontinent let himfelf down before God hum- 
bly, and acknowledge his FooUftmefe, want of 
Watching, Unworthinefs and Inability, either 
to know how he hath grieved God's Spirit, and 
made open a Door for the Tempter to fall in 
upon him, or to repent the Sins which he 
knoweth might have provoked God fo to exer- 
cife him; and next let him look unto God in 
Chrift reconciling the World to Hirofelf,and lay 
kold on the Floras of the Altar, on the Throne 
of Grace for ftrengthening his Faith, that he 
may find help for the prefent need, and thereaf- 
ter alfo to walk more wifely : for, this is the 
Counfel which Chrift doth give to the corrupt 
Church of Sardis, Revel. 3. %, Strengthen 
the thing which remanineth and is ready to 
die. Thus may the Afflicted recover ftrength 
of Faith, and Ability to refifl: Satan, and 
Furniture for bringing forth unqucftionable 
Fruits of Faith. 



CHAR 



BOOK II. [ 383 [ CHAP. VIII. 

CHAP. VIII. 

Wherein the Regeuerat Mans Douht, whether he 
he in the (late of Grace % arijwg from his unquiet nefs 
of Spirit, is anfwered. 

T His Cafe is incident to many dear Chil- 
dren of God, and may befal Champions 
in time offad Affli&ion, as we fee in the 
Prophet, Pf. 42. 11. and 43. 5. Why art then 
cafl down, 6 my Soul : and why art thou difquieted 
within we ? But even in time of outward Profps-? 
rity, or when no great Affli&ion bodiiy lyeth 
oa. many, who inthe fenfe of their Siafulneis 
have fled to Jefus Chrift, and have taken His 
Yoke upon them, are troubled with Doubtings, 
whether they be of the number of true Believers, 
whether they have rightly eome unto Chrift; 
whether they have been well accepted of Him; 
and for their doubting they can give no other 
reafon, fa ve this, I cannot be quiet, nor reft in 
aflurance, That I am in the ftate Grace ; if they 
be interrogat, what they think of the evident 
figns of their Regeneration, which have been 
and are to be fcen in their Converfation, iince 
they began in earnell to feck the Face of God in 
Chrift ? They will poflibly not altogether deny 
God's work in them ; but yet dare not lean 
weight upon thefeSigns,becaufe .they do find theie 
Signs alio brought in queftion,whetherthey have 
been ©r are kindly and iincere; meantime thev 

B b are 



BOOK II. [384] CHAP.VIIL 
are about to do that which is acceptable to God 
in the courfe of their Calling, albeit with more 
Heavine s and lefs Alacrity than becometh Per- 
fons reconciled to God in Chrift. 

x. This Difeafewill be found complicat and 
made up of moe Miftakes and Errors than one-: 
And therefore is to be the more narrowly confide- 
red,becau(e it is no finall hinderance of a comfor- 
table Chrifltan Converfation,which God doth al- 
low on His Children;for in the party troubled with 
unquietnefe, wepreiuppone, 1. There is a fe- 
rious fenfe of Sin, and purpofe to do better. 2. 
An unfained embracing of die Covenant of Grace 
and Reconciliation in Chrift Jefus. And 3. An 
boneft though weak Endeavour to bring forth 
the Fruits of new Obedience x And yet notwith- 
ftanding'the Perfon is not quiet, but walketh 
faeayiiy and is difcouraged, byreafbn of his 
uncertainty, whether he be m the date of Grace 
or hot : Yea, he is call down and difquieted, 
becaufe he isdifquieted, and cannot get a rea- 
sonable Anfvver from his Confcience when he 
asketh of it, why art thou call dpwn and dif- 
quieted within me? 

3. The Miftakes and Errors, whence this Dif- 
fatisfadrion and Unquietnefs dothflow,are many; 
but we fhall condefcend upon Eight or Nine on- 
ly. The Firft Error, and Caufe of Unquietnefs 
is, or may be this, that the Party afflidted, al- 
beit he have the Habits of laving Grace in him, 
and doth by God's Grace put forth theft Habits 



BOOK II. [ 389 ] CHAP. VIII. 

in adual exercife, yet he doth not reflect upon, 
nor turn his Eye to obfervc, the Operations of 
God's holy Spirit in himfelf, nor the Adts of Gi- 
ving Grace, which the holy Spirit hath made him 
put forth, of which if he take not notice, they 
are to him for the time as if they were not ; 
and fo no wonder he be diiquict, while he per- 
cciveth not in himfelf that which might make him 
quiet:For Example, when the fenfe of Sin is raifed 
up in a Man's Spirit by the holy Ghoft, if he do 
not cbferve that this is one of the Operations of 
die holy Spirit convincing the World of Sin, or. 
if he do not tunvback his Eye on this Opera- 
tion, and upon his own ad:,- flirted up thereby, 
to fubferibe the Sentence of the Lawagainft him- 
felf, no wonder that he doubt of hisConverfion, 
till he fee the foot-fteps of God the Converter 
of him, from the love and approbation of Sin, 
unto the hatred of it ; and when he is fled to 
Chrift the only Redeemer from Sin and Mifery, 
and hath laid hold on Him according to the Co- 
venant of Grace offered in Him, if he do not look 
back on this Operation of God drawing him to 
Chri(l,and upon his own ad of coming unto Chrift 
by the Draught of Gods Spirit, what wonder he 
do not reckon himfelf among Believers, albeit 
he be in God's account one of that num- 
ber? And when the holy Spirit hath kindled 
in him not only a purpoie of new Obedience, 
but alio a begun Endeavour to live Holily, 
Juftlyand Soberly, if he do net obfervc and 
13 b ^ ae< 



BOOK II. [ 390 ] CHAP. VIII. 

acknowledge thefe Operations of God's Spirit, 
making him to bring forth thefe Ad's, what won- 
der that this Miftake and Inconfidcration do o- 
pena Door to Difquietnefs and Dcubtipg, whe- 
ther he be in the ftate of Grace or not > 

4. For removing this Caufe of Difquietnefs, 
the affli&ed perfon muft beware that he pafs not 
Sentence of Gods Difpenfation towards him, ac- 
cording to the Tentations and Suggeftions of Sa- 
tan, nor yet according to the Opinion which his 
Paftor or Friend may have of him, judging fome 
what uncharitably of him, uponfinifter fufpici- 
ons ; Neither let Him ftand to the fufpiciems of 
his own incredulous heart; but let him confider 
what the Word of the Lord hath faid of the Per- 
fon in whom thefe three Graces do concur, to 
wit, 1. The fenfe of Sin and Inability to help 
our felves. i.Flying unto Chrift for Relief from 
Sin and Mifcry. and, 3. Some meafure oi up- 
right Purpofe and Endeavour to ferve God in new 
Obedience;for of fuch faith the Apoftle, TV;//.}. 3. 
We are the Circurncifi&n or true Ifraelitesjvho have 
no confidence in theflejh, but rejoice in Jefus Chrift, 
and worjhip God in the Spirit. Let him therefore 
efteem the difcovery of his finful and wretched 
eftate in himfeifto be the very fruit of the Eye- 
ialve and Work of the Spirit bellowed on him 
by Chrift, and let hirn efteem his hearty Confenc 
given w the Covenant of Grace and Reconcilia- 
tion, to be the undoubted Ad of faving Faith. 
For, hearty Confent to the Offer of Grace in Je- 



BOOK II. [ 391 ] CHAP. VIII. 

fus Chrift, prefuppones, Firft, that the Pcrfon 
fees no (landing for hirn by the Law or Cove- 
nant of Works, but is beaten from all con- 
fidence in himfelf, and made to believe and 
fubferibe the Righteous Sentence of the Law a- 
gainft himfclf to the praife of God's Truth and 
Juftke. Secondly, it imports the Man's belie- 
ving the Teftimony which God hath given of 
Chrift Jefus, to wit.that God hath made a Gift of 
Life-eternal to the Soul that hungereth and third 
eth for Righteoufne(s,and that thisLife is in His 
Son;yea it imports the Man's receiving & embra- 
cing of Chrift offered in the GofpeL Thirdly, 
it importeth, that the Confenter to the Cove- 
nant of Grace as he hath renounced confidence 
in his own Works, fo he hath given up himfclf 
to God, to live by the Grace of Jefus Chrift un- 
to eternal Life. Now if the Afflicted fhall re- 
fled: upon thefe two Operations of the holy 
Ghoft, making him humble in the fenfc of Sin 
heartily to receive Chrift Jefus for his Reiief, 
and withal do obferve anunfained Purpofc and 
begun Endeavour to live more holily and fruit- 
fully by the Grace and Furniture of Chrift, how- 
foever he labour under many Infirmities, not on- 
ly is he undoubtedly a new Creature, but alfo by 
obfervingtheforefaid Evidence thereof, may cori- 
clude,that God hath begun a good work of Grace 
in him,and{o iMll this firft Caufe ©f Difquictncis 
Ire removed. 



BOOK. II. [ 392 ] CHAP. VIII. 

j. Another caufe of Difquietnefs is, or maybe 
tbisjf the Affli&ed,afcer examination of the work 
of Grace in himfelf,being convinced of his blelled 
Efhte and confirmed by prefent fenfe of God's 
Love flied abroad in his Heart, do not hold faft 
his Efrimation of God's Work in himfelf, longer 
than the fenfible comfort thereof remaineth with 
him, but either doth retreat his Judgement of 
of his blelled Eftate,or doth not defend his Right, 
doth not refill Satan by being fteadfaft in the 
Faith, no wonder his difquietnefs and deje&ion 
of Courage return upon him. 

6. For removing of this Caufe of Difquietnefs, 
let the Afflicted confider, that fpiritualConfolati- 
on,and fenfible feeling of God's Favour,is granted 
to God's Children to make themftedfaft in the 
Faith of God's Grace toward them, when fen- 
fible Comfort is with-drawn, and when they are 
put to the trial and exercife of their Faith, un- 
der Trouble and Temptations. And therefore, 
when the Afflic3:ed,once being made clear of his 
interett ia Chrift, and of his keeping on him the 
Yoke of Chrift, doth find a change in his condi- 
tion, let him prefently humble himfelf before 
God. in acknowlegment of the power of the body 
of Sin in himfelf, and of whatfoever evil Fruit it 
hath brought forth, whereby he hath procured the 
change of his own comfortable condition.-and let 
him renew the Acls of his Repentance and of his 
Faith in Chrift, driving againll all Temptations 
for the Faith once given to him, and difputing, 

lor 



BOOK II. [ 393 1 CHAP. VIII. 

for his Right and Intereft unto God's Grace in 
Chrift,that he may with patience obtain the Vi- 
ctory over his Temptation, and be able, not only 
with DaviJ to charge his own Soul to truft in God, 
the help and health of his countenance fit.^z. and 43, 
but alio to glory with the Apoflle, and to fay, 
x Tim. 1. zz. I know whom I have believed .and I am 
perfwadedjhat He is able to keep that which I have 
committed unto Him againjl that day. And fo may 
the iecond Caufe of Difquietnefs be removed. 

7. A Third Caufe of Difquietnefs is, or may 
be this, If a fincere Convert, finding himfelf 
come fliort both of his Purpofe and Hope of ma- 
king progrefsiii the courfe of new Obcdience,and 
Reformation of Heart and Conversation, fhall 
inftead of being more humbled, and beaten more 
out ofconfidenccinhisownftrength and works, 
and in ftead of laying fafter hold on the imputed 
Righteoufnefs of Chrift, yeild unto difcourage- 
ment,and fo open a Door for ca! ling his own Con- 
verfion in qucftion.ln this Cafe, the Difquietnefs 
of the true Convert is augmented ,by reatbn of the 
Confcicnce of his Sincerity in his Converfion, 
wherein hercnounced the Love and Service of all 
Sin,renouncedall confidence in his own Worth or 
Works,did fly unto the Grace offered in Chrift and 
received Him heartily, andpurpofed honeftly 
to fcrve God thereafter in newnefs of Life,whicli 
maketh him lay in himfelf,! can never putRc- 
pentaneefrom dedd Works,and Faith inChrift,and 



BOOK II. [ 394 1 CHAP. VIII, 

purpofe of new Obedience more fincerely in exer- 
cife, than I have done : And now feing I come 
fhort of my purpofe and hope of Profiting, and 
can never more fincerely Repent of Sin, or Be- 
lieve in Chrift, than I have done,have I not juft 
caufe of doubting of my Eftate, and of Difcou- 
ragement and Difquietnefs. 

8. For removing this saufe of Difquietnefs,let 
the Affli&ed confider, Fir ft, That there is a great 
diffcreace between Purpofe and Pra&ice. A ho- 
ly and finccre Purpofe oft-times cometh Ihort in 
practice: For the Apoftle faith, Rom. 7.18. To 
will is prefent with me, but how to performtthat which 
k good, I find not. The inlake here is of Strength 
to perform, and not in the fmcerity of the Will 
and Purpofe. 

Secondly, Let him cohfider, that there is a dif- 
ference between the Confent of a well-informed 
Conference to the difcharge of holy Duties, and 
the pra&ical coming up of the not well- reformed 
Heart, unto the a&ual diicharge of thofe Duties: 
For oft-times the Heart is like a deceitful Bow, 
that dilappointeth the Archer; therefore let not 
the Affii&ed deny the fmcerity of his Purpofe, 
but let him be humbled for the Corruption of 
his Heart, which hath not anfwered his Purpofe 
and Expectation. 

Thirdly, Let not the Affii&ed think that he 
hath fo fully renounced ail confidence in his own 
Works as he conceived .* We may be clearly con- 
vinced not to lean toourownRighteoufnefs^nd 

fo 



BOOK II. [ 39* J CHAP. VIII. 

fo moreeafily in our Judgement renounce all con- 
fidence in our good Behaviour ; but the dregs of 
the Sin of misbelieving Jews is not cafily purged 
out of us, wherein they went about to eftabhfh 
their own Righteoufneft, and did not fubmit 
themfelves to the Righteoufnefs of Faith, Rom. 
9. and 10. 3. As he therefore who denieth,that 
he leaneth his weight on his StafF,andyet falleth 
to the Ground when his Staff doth flide,is found 
to have leaned more weight on his Staff than he 
pretended ; fo he is found to have leaned too 
much weight upon his own Works, who is call 
down, becaufe his Performances are not anfwe- 
rable to his Purpefe and Hopes. Humbled in- 
deed he ought to be, and to lament his Mifery 
under the body of Death, but not be fo deje- 
ded and difcouraged, as to loofe or flacken his 
Grips of the Covenant of Grace ; efpecially when 
he doth confider, that the Lord, by this experi- 
ence of his own weaknefs, is teaching him there- 
after to have a more high eftimation, and make 
better u(e of Chrift's imputed Righteoufiiefs, and 
to lean lefs to his own Purpofes, and Pr©mifcs, 
and inherent Righteoufhefs,that fo he may draw 
more Ability from Chrifi; by Faith, to bring forth 
better Fruits: For without Me (faith Chrift)jp« can 
Jo nothing. Joh* 15. j. 

Lafl *f a/2, Let him neither fay nor think, that 
he cajanot put forth any Adt of Repentance or 
Faith, or purpofe ef amendment of Life, more 
fincerely than he hath done; for no Man hack* 

at- 



BOOK II. [396] CHAP. VII. 

attained fuch a meafure of Sincerity in the dis- 
charge of any A6t of (aving Grace, but there is 
room for him to receive a greater Meafure both 
of Activity and Sincerity ina&ing, then he hath 
attained already.- but rather let him examine 
more narrowly, and find out the corrupt Inclina- 
tion of the Heart to lean to its own inherent 
Righteoufnefs, and difficulty of fubje&ing it felf 
wholly to the Righteoufnefs of Faith, and San- 
edification through Faith in Chrift; for, this doth 
the Apoftle teach us to do, Philip. 3. 12. 13. 14. 
he did not think himfelf already porfed:, but 
reached himfelf forth tothofe things which were 
before him, prtffing toward the Mark, for the 
prize of the high Calling of God in Chrift Jefus. 
And the end of the prefling of the Law is, that 
Sin may be the more clearly difcovered; that as 
Sin hath reigned unto Death, even fo might 
Grace reign through Chrift Jefus our Lord, Rom. 
5*. 20, 21- 

9. The Fourth Caufc of Difquietnefs is, or 
may be this, If the true Convert, being frequent- 
ly convinced of the manifold Deceits of the Heart, 
for this caufe lhall begin to call in queftion all 
the work of Grace in himfelf . Which Inconve- 
nience doth flow from his not putting difference 
between the ttue Content of the Heart unto the 
Covenant of Grace and Ads of Holinefs, in fo 
far as the Heart is renewed on the one hand, 
and the Doubting or Hefitation of the Heart, 
in as far as it is noc purged from the Reliefs of 



t 



BOOK II. [397] CHAP. VIII. 

Incredulity and BackwardnefsuntoGodlinefs 011 
the other hand; orbecaufehe puts no difference 
between the effects of renewing Grace, and the 
effedts of in-dwelling Sin in himfelf, both of 
them putting forth their power in the felf fame 
A&ions: for, if this Difference fhall not be ob- 
ferved, and Sentence fo given, as that which 
is in the renewed Man be abfolved and commen- 
ded, and that which flowes from indwelling Sin 
be difallowed and condemned, without preju- 
dice to any good which fhali be found in the 
renewed Man, it is impoflible that the Confci- 
ence can be quiet, or that any good A&ion of 
the Sainrs can be approven by reafon of Sin in us; 
for, the Evil which we would not, fliall be 
found in us, as is clear in the A po (lie's Cenfure 
of himfelf, Bom. 7. 15. to 20. 

10. For removing this Fourth CaufeofDiP 
quietnefs, let the Afflided learn fo to obferve the 
Inlakes and finful Imperfe&ions and Pollutions 
of his bed Works, as he obferve alfo that 
which is good in his Adtions, that of the good 
he may make thankful confefTion unto God and 
pray for the increafc thereof ; and of the inlakes 
and Pollutions of his Works, he may make con- 
fefiion alfo, and be humbled for them, and fly 
to the unfpotted Righteoafnefs of Chrift, and to 
the Fountain opened up in His Houfc for Sin and 
Uncleannefs, Zech. 13 1. This Wifdom is 
taught us in the example of the Father of the 
Child poflefled with a dumb and deaf Spirit,crying 

0U€ 



BOOK II. [ 398 ] CHAP. VIIL 
out and faying with Tears, Lord J helieve, help 
Thou my Unbelief, Mark 9. 24. he maintains the 
begun Work of Faith in himfelf, and confefleth 
the Evil he found in himfelf,and flyethby prayer 
toChrift to help him. 

11. The fifth Cauft ofDifquietnefs is,or may 
be this, if the true Convert fufpend the Abfolu- 
tion of his own Faith, and Fruits thereof, from 
being hypocritical and counterfeit, unril he find 
himlclf freed from Difquietne(s,and do injoy Peace 
and Tranquillity of Mind, which he deth ap- 
prehend fhould always accompany found,fincerc 
andunfained Faith, and on this Ground he e- 
fteemeth that Faith only to be true Faith, which 
hath overcome all Doubtings, and now being 
victorious, bringeth Peace and Quiecnefs with 
it ; and that Faith which is tolled, or troubled 
with Doubtings, he thinketh may juftly befuf- 
pedtedof unfoundnefs,as if Tentation to Doubt- 
ing were a fufficient reafon to make a queftion of 
the fincerity of Believing: Or as if it were afuffi- 
cient Reafon for a Man to call his Faith in que- 
ftion, whether it be true Faith or aot,becaufe Sa- 
tan calleth it in queftion;For if this were afuffici- 
ent Reafon to queftion a Work or Ad: of Grace in 
a Man, no Work of Grace,nor no Point of true Reli- 
gionjhould beholden for (bund and true,becaufe 
Satan never ccafeth to calumniatand quarrel the 
Truth, both of God's Word and Working, for he 
was fo malicious and impudent as to queftion 
If Thou he the Son of God, Match. 4. 3. 

ii Fos 

i 



BOOK II. [ 399 ] CHAP. VIII. 

12. For removing of this Caufe of Difquict- 
nefs, let the Airlifted confider, Frrft, That the 
Aflaults of the Enemy do neither diminiili the 
Worth, nor the Eftimation of Faith ; for, Faith 
fighting, is no Iels folid and found in the time of 
Battle, then it is after Vidtory, Handing vi£fc> 
rious. 2. Let him confider that we are called 
to a Warfare, not only againft Flefli and Blood, 
but alfo againft Principalities and Powers and 
fpiritual WiekednefTes, Epbef 6. and that we may 
not promife to our felves, freedom or exemption 
from Satans throwing fiery Darts at us, fo long 
as we live, as the Apoftle doth warn us, Ephef. 
5. Let him confider thirdly, that Obje&ions and 
Queftions, moved againft the Converts Faith, 
are rather a Token of the Sincerity thereof then 
a Reafon for bringing it in queftion : For the 
Pirat Satan can difcern well enough between an 
empty Veflel and a Ship loadened with precious 
Wares,& ufeth to let upon the rich Ship,that he 
may fpoil it, if he can, of that moft precious 
Faith, and not trouble himfelf to moleft a fecure 
prefumptuous Perfon, left he fhould waken him, 
by fuch means, out of his Dream, and chafe 
him unto God. But as for a Man that is already 
fled from him and turned to God by Faith m 
Chrift, he will not fail to follow the chafe, thai 
if he cannot bring him back, yet he may vex 
him and dog him at the Heels till his Entry m 
Heaven. Fourthly, Let him confider, that the 
Lord ufeth to iufler Satan to trouble the Belie- 
ver. 



BOOK II. [ 400 ] CHAP. VIII. 

ver with Suggeftions to waken his Faith, of fet 
purpofe to teach the Believer to fight His Battles, 
and by frequent Exercifes to be purified more 
and more, like Gold or Silver put oft-times m 
the Furnace ; yea, and that the Wreltler may be 
made valiant in Fight, Heh. ir. 34. whereupon 
the Afflidted muft be exhorted not only to take 
Courage, and to defpife the Malice of the Ad- 
verfary, but alfo to rejoice when he doth meet 
with manifold Tentations (as we are charged Jam. 
1. 2.) becaufe of the Fruit following by Gods 
Bleffing on fuch Exercife. And to this end, let 
him put on the whole Armour of God.that when 
he hath refilled and overcome one Tentation, he 
may Hand and refill another, Ephef. 6. 

13. The Sixth Caufe of Difquietnefs, is, or 
may be this, If the true Convert do not diftin- 
guiih, but confound the Peace he hath with God, 
iyid die Peace he hath in his Confcience ; if he 
do not diftinguiihjbut confound Peace with God 
and reft from AfTau Its of the Adversary; if he 
do not diftinguiili, but confound Peace of Mind, 
and Peace of Confcience; if he do not diftin- 
guifli and put a due difference between thefe 
forts of Peace, he cannot choofe but be difquie- 
ted, by fufpe&mg his Peace with God, becaufe 
he hath not Reft nor Peace fromSatans Ailaults; 
he cannon efhevv Difquietnefs,whcn he conceives 
that his Peace with God is dilTblved , when 
Trouble arifetk m his own Confcience- And 
go wpnder he be difquieted when he apr 

pre? 



BOOK II. [ 401 ] CHAR VIII. 

prehendeth every Perturbation of his Mind to 
be a breach of Peace with God, or with his 
own Confciencc. 

14. For removing of this Caufe of Difquiet- 
nefs, the Affii&ed muft confider, Firft, that 
Peace with God, doth follow iramediatly upon 
an humbled Sinners flying to Chrift,and embra- 
cing the ofler of Reconciliation with God in 
Chrift, when, in the mean time, the Confci- 
ence poflibiy may be going on purfuing the 
Convert with Challenges for all fort of Sin and 
Guiltinefs ; for he that is fled toChriii by Faith, 
isjuftiried, and being justified by Faith, he hath 
Peace with God, granted, decreed, pronoun- 
ced in his favours, and regiilrat intheGourt- 
book of the Evangel, albeit poffibly the ab- 
folved Converr, hath not drawn forth the 
Extract of. the Decreet, nor confidered it, 
when he hath read it, nor applied the fame 
to himfeif according as the general Sentence gi- 
veth him warrand. 

Therefore, the humbled Sinner fled unto 
Chrift, and engaged heartily to His Service, 
muft take heed fo much to what is fickly, 
and not clearly informed Confcience doth 
fay, as to what God, Who is greater than 
the Confcience, and giveth Order and Rule tQ 
the Confcience, doth fay to fuch a poor SpiU 
fled unto Chrift. 

Secondly, Let him confider, that his Peace is 
not marred with God, by Satan's warring a~ 

gaini\ 



BOOK II. [ 402 ] CHAP. VIII, 

gainft him ; for Peace with God ftandeth well 
with War againlt all fpiritual Enemies .• And there- 
fore the lets Reft he hath from Satan's Trouble 
and Moleftation, let him be the more confident 
of his Peace with God, Whofe Battles he is fight- 
ing againft Satan. 

Thirdly , Let him confider, that Perturbation 
of Mind, doth neither hinder Peace with God, 
nor Peace of Conference: For the Mind and 
Thoughts of a Man, for many Reafons may be 
rroubled and difquieted, when Peace with God 
and Peace ofConlcience are fettled andeftablifh- 
ed : For when the Mind is troubled, and temp- 
ted to Anxiety, the Apoftle fheweth how to re- 
move the Perturbation of the Mind, and fettle 
the Peace of Confcience alfo, Phil. 4. 6, 7. Be 
careful (faith he, or anxious) for nothing, but in 
c icry thing by Prayer and Supplication with Thankf- 
giving, let your Requefls be made manifefl to God, 
Mid-thePeate of God, which pa ffes all Under (landing, 
jiall keep your Hearts and Minds through Chrijl 
Jefi/s. And in his own experience he lets us fee 
the difference of Perturbation of Mind,from Peace 
with God and the Confcience alfo, 2 Cor. 7.5,6. 
When we were come into Macedonia, our Flefh had 
no rejly but we were troubled on every fide, without 
were Fightings, within were Fears ; never the lefs 9 
Gcd that comfort eth thefe that are cafl down, com- 
forted us in the coming of Titus. So alfo, 2 Cor. 
%. lz, 13, 14. 

15. The 



BOOK II. [ 403 } CHAP. VIII 

15, The Seventh Caufe of Difquietncfs, is, or 
may be this, if the true Convert be cither ignorant 
or forgetful of the way of obtaining, maintaining 
repairing and recovering th* true Peace of God in 
himfelf, and of the Change of God's Difpcnfation 
toward his Children which is common; through 
many Tribulations God doth bring his own to 
Heaven. Sometime He (hews them His Counte- 
nance in a comfortable Providence, fometime He 
hides His Face, but doth not change His Love 
toward them, Pfal. 30. 7. Thou hi deft Thy Face, 
fiaith David) and I was troubled y hxxt here was his 
Wifdom,he went the ftraight way to recover his 
J?Qacc f lcryedto thee ,0 Lord \and unto the Lord made 
I my Supplication&nd his Mourning was turned in* 
to Dancing, PfaL 30. 7, 8. to the end. But ma- 
ny weak Converts are not fo wife, who by their 
inconfiderat Courfes do call: themfelves in Fears*, 
Jealoufies and Sufpicions, both of God's Love to 
them,and of their own intereft in Him: when they 
mifs felt Conizations they fall to quarrel their 
Right. And if they rcfolvc to have their con- 
dition helped, they prefcribe their own time, 
way and meafure, and nothing can fatisfie them 
rill they recover poflellion of loft ienfe with the 
Spoufe, Cant. a. 5-. Stay me with Flagffns, 
comfort me with Aples ( faith lhe) for I am fick of 
Love. It is rrue, fometime God doth con- 
defcend to their paffionat purfuit of Comfort, 
but their not believing, in the mean time, 
and their hailing to have their conditionalte red, 

G c be- 



BOOK II. [ 404 } CHAR VIII. 

before Patience hath wrought the perfed: work, 
is not to be commended or approven. 

1 6, For removing this Caufe of Difquiernets, 
let the Affli&ed confider, Fir[t, that the Lord 
neither fheweth His Loving Countenance to the 
weak Difciple, nor hidcth it from him, but ous 
oflove ; He neither corre&eth nor comforteth 
him,but out of love;/ am thcLord and change not 
(faith He) MaL$. 6.Thercfrre you Sonscf Jacob are 
■not cenjumed. If He give confolation fenfibly, 
it is to confirm their weak Faith, by fenfible 
Experience of the Fruit of believing in Him, 
and if He withdraw His Confolation, it is that 
He may exercife their Faith, and train them to 
believeHisWord without a fenfiblePawn for it : 
And therefore,for removing this Caufe of Dil- 
quietnefs, by allMeans let the Affii&ed be ware 
to mi£conftru<3: die Lord's dealing, but let him 
ftrive againft all Suggcflions of Satan,or his own 
misbelieving Heart, and entertain friendly 
Thoughts of God; for a true Friend, or Father 
among Men, will take it for no fmall Injury to 
<o be fufpe&ed of His friendly or fatherly Af- 
fedion to His Friend or Child, yea, even Phy- 
ficians and Chyrurgians, find a good Expofition 
from their Patients, when they give them bitter 
Potions, when they cut and carve and burn their 
Flefh,full they are exponed to aim at the Patient's 
Good;much more ihould every Man,whatibever 
Dilpenfatioii ofGod he meet with, give a good 
Conftru&ion of His working. 



BOOK n. [ 40s ] CHAP. VIII. 

Secondly, Let him cotifidcr,that the Lord hath 
his own way and order of working; firft, He 
difcoverth Sin and Mifcry and Weaknefs in the 
Crdature,and after that he difcovereth his Grace, 
Mercy and Power in Chrift to relieve; firft, He 
humbleth and then liftcth up: firft, He woun- 
deth, and then He healeth; firft He fmiteth, and 
thenbindeth up; firft He bringeth down to Death, 
and then rcftoreph unto Life, Hof. 6. 1. and, 
Pf. 9. 3. and therefore, let the Afflided be hum- 
bled under the (enfe of apprehended Caufes of 
his Difquietnefs, and feek of God the reltor- 
ing of w r hat is loft or wanting, and the healing 
of the wound infli&ed in due order. Now 
God's Order is thiSyHe will, firft, have the Law 
magnified, and His Juftice acknowledged by all 
affli&ed Sinners, even by them who are in the 
ilateof Grace,andnot are under the Covenant oc 
Curfe of the Law, to whom notwithftanding 
the Law muft ftili be a Pedagogue to lead them 
to Chrifl.-and when the Lord's Juftice is acknow- 
ledged, and all fretting and murmuring againft 
his dealing flopped, then cometh, in the next 
place, the difcovery of Grace in Chrift: for, fince 
the fall of Adam, God hath always been in 
Chrift, going about to reconcile the World to 
Himfeif, not impuring their tranfgreflions to 
them, z Cor. 5. 19. And when God hath drawn 
the Sinner by Faith to the Mediator Chrift, 
God incarnat, then there is a matrimonial Con- 
•radt made betwixt God in Chrift recon- 
C c 2 •*- 



BOOK II. [ 406 J CHAP. VIII; 

died and rhe Believer, and an union between 
Chrift and the Believer in a judicial manner ; 
and fo the Believer is made to have a Right unto 
Chrift's Perfon according to that of the Spoufe, 
Cant. 1. 1 6. My lelcved is mine> and I am his. 
And by this means alfo, the Believer is madeto J 
have Right unto Chrift's Purchafe and Benefits, 
and to Communion with Him and His Saints, as 
the Apoftle teacheth us, Rom. 32,. He that /pared 
not Hts own Son, hut delivered Him up for us alljhow 
fhallHe not with Him alfo freely give us all things ? 
And after Right given to the Believer, in due 
time die Lord giveth and renewcth the Earneft- 
penny of the Inheritance, Ephefi. 13. In whom 
alfo ye were fealed with that holy Spirit ofPromife % 
who really teneweth the Believer and giveth 
him Peace, Joy, Confolation, Strength and other 
Gifts of Grace, with an ebbing and flowing 
thereof in the (enfe and feeling of the Believer, as 
may befl: firve the good of the Believer, and glo- 
ry of God's gracious Difpenfation: and therefore, 
Thirdly, Let the afflicted Perfon, whatfoever 
Crofs-difpenfation he meet with, whatfoeyer Di- 
ftemper of Soul he fall into, whatfoever 'Grace 
or meafure of Grace he mifleth or cometh fhort 
of, feek his Relief in God's order; that is to fay, 
let him juftify the Lord's Wifdom andjullicc, 
humble himfelf under His mighty Hand, renew 
the A&s of Repentance in Humility, turn his 
Face toward Chrift by the renewed Ads of Faith 
in him, lay hold on his Right unto ChrilVs Per- 

foa 



BOOK II. [ 407 ] CHAP. VUl. 

fan and Benefits, that he may come to the 
fenfible feeling of what he hath right unto by 
the Covenant of Grace. And whatfocver De- 
feds, Tranfgreflions, Temptations unto Difcou- 
ragement and Misbelief, do branglc his Confi- 
dence, let them humble himfelf indeed, but fo 
as they do not drive him from that Covenant, 
but be made of as Spurrs, and forcible Motives 
to lay the faflcr hold on Chrift, and His infinit 
Grace contracted in that Covenant. 

17. The Eighr Caufe of Difquietnefs, is, or 
may be this, If the true Conrert,daily lamenting 
his own finfulacfs, and daily troubled with fu- 
ipicion of his own bleffed eiiate,by reafon of his 
felt manifold Corruptions, iliall meet either with 
the/Calumnies of Men, or Comforters like Job's 
Friends, whom (lead of healing his Wounds in 
his Affiidion, ihall fofter'his fufpicion of his 
eltate by uncharitable cenfure of the poor Man's 
Complaint of himfelfan this cafe,if the Aftlidcddo 
not maintain his Righteoufnefsby Faith in (Shrift 
as Job did, & his upright endeavour to pi cafe God, 
which is m'anifeft 'by his daily godly Grief for his 
ihorc coming in his aimed-at Holinefs* no won- 
der he be diiquieted. 

18. For removing of this Caufe, let the Afiii* 
ded confidcr and diltinguifa what is right in him, 
and what is wrong, and beware to confoun-A 
thefe. For example, 1. This is ' right,rhatHe; ( dbth 
hot lean to theworch of his own Works, nor is 
puffed up with a vaiii conceit of himfelf before 

Cc 3 God 



BOOK II. t 4^8 ] CHAR VII!. 

God. 2. That he isfenfible of his finful Imper- 
fections and Corruptions, and of the bitter Root 
of original Sin in him. 3. It is right in him alfo, 
that he aimeth toward Peffe&ion, forgetting 
what is behind, and preffing toward the Mark 
and Prize of his Calling. But this is wrong in 
him, 1. That he foftereth Sufpicions unjultly 
of his own Biefled' Eftate. z. That he doth not 
obferve the Work of God's Grace in himfetf Co 
carefully as he obferveth his Imperfecfiions and 
Corruptions. 3. That he doth not fo much the 
more make ufeofChrifFs imputed Righteoufnefs, 
as he findeth the Imperfection of his own inhe- 
rent Righteoufnefs. 4. That he meafureth God's 
efdmation of him, according to the eftimation 
lie hath of himfelf, when indeed God in Scrip- 
ture cloth fliew no leis approbation of him in his 
wreftljng, then he doth in the time of his vidtG- 
ry and quiet condition. f.l That he doth net 
ob&fve the difference of the way he coth Ivafk 
into which is good, from the Slidings; Imper- 
fections, Errors and Miftakes m particular 
A&ions and Pafiages, in that way. 6. That he 
doth lay more weight oft-times' upon the Judg- 
ment of miilaking Spectators of his Courfe, then 
he hath reafori to do, and doth not rake heed to 
the Sentence of the. Lord in the Gofpel, concer- 
ning pie Poor in Spint, the Contrite; the Meek 
anUTdwIy Difciplc" Thcie things let the Af- 
fiid'ed jcon jaer and make good uic thereof,fo: his 
'c^^r'ageiTKnt in the way of lieiv obedience. • 

» -^ v. . 



: 



le 



i B O O K II. I 409 1 CHAP. Vin. 

19. The Ninth Caufe of Difquictnefs 1*5, or 
Jmay be this, if the true Convert be not acquaint- 
ed with living by Faith; for there arc many ho- 
ned and tender-hearted Converts, who, in the 
fenfe of their Sins,are fled unto Chrid,refoIved 
never to depart from Him, and careful to lead a 
blamelefs Life, whonotwithftandiag, whenfoever 
they meet with Changes of Difpenfetion, with 
variety of Temptations, frefh feehfig of the power 
of Sin in themfelvcs, or any Crofs bodily or fpi- 
ritual, aredi{quiercd and cad in Sufpicion of 
their date .* And albeit they neither will give o- 
vcr to follow after Chrid, nor will God differ 
them toperiili; yet they niakcthemfelvesan un- 
comfortable and miferable Life, by their leaning 
to prcfent Senfc and Feeling, when they fliould 
remember the Saying of the Apodlc, ( z.Ccr. 5. 
j We walk not by Sight but by Faith} they are cad 
down, do mourn and complain, becaufe it is not 
w T ith them as they would, and are mod pare 
male-content with their lot, frequently regrating 
unto God their Wants and Imperfections, andfei- 
dom are they praifmg or thanking God for what 
they have gotten of Him. 

20. For removing this Caule, let the Aiflicl> 
ed, fird confider what the Apodlc fpeaketh to the* 
afflicted Hebrews, Ileb. 10. 36. Te have need 'of \ 
Patience, that when ye have clone the Will of God ye 
way receive the Promife; for yet a little while, and 
he that will come, (lull cwne % and will not tv,-j\lh^ 
the Jul} MaitjbaU live by Faith, faith he, 

k 



BOOK II. t 410 ] CHAP. VIII, 

Secondly, Let him conftder, that to live by 
Faith, doth require thefe fix Duties. 1. That we 
renounce our own corrupt Reafon and Senfe, left 
we count that to be our Life which may be ieen 
or felt,or that which may be altered and changed, 
but reckon that to be our Life,which is hid with 
God in Chrift, and fhall be revealied at the glo 
rious coming of our Lord. %> That the Cove- 
nant of Grace, and Rich promifes of the Gofpel 
be efteemed of us as our Meat and Drink,where- 
by our Hearts may be fiiftainedinall Adverfity, 
mid our Hope upholden in Patience through the 
Comfort of the Scripture. 3. That we make ufe of 
all God's Benefits beftowed upon us by vertue of 
that new Right made unto us in Chrift for being 
Partakers thereof. 4. That in all our Actions, 
we implore and feek our ftrength from Chrift,and 
give Him thanks for the meafure whatfoever 
He beftoweth. So did the Apoftle live, Gal. 
% 20. The Life which I new live in the fkfh % I 
Jive hy the Faith of the Son of God. 5. That 
we tejoyceand glory more in Chrift Jefusilithe 
midft oftrouble, then we grieve for our Troubles 
whatfoever, whereby as with a fliarp Pinfel, He 
is thawing in us the Lineaments of His ovvn Image 
and Conformity with Himfelf; fo did the Saints, 
Rem. 5. 3, 4, $r. Laftofall, to live by Faith, re? 
quireth that in every condition we ihould keep 
Faith and a good Confciencein Chrift Jefus, and 
efteem our felves blefled of the Lord, albeit we 
^e rolled with Troubles immediatly fept fronx 

Qq4 



BOOK H. i 411 ] CHAP. V-m. 

God to exercife uS;albeic wc do fall in manifold 
Tentations, be affaulted with Doubtings, and 
perfecuted unjuftly by Men.- For, it fhould and 
may fuffice a Believer in Chrift, if he bo not 
diftrefled, albeit he be troubled on every fide; h<* 
muft not difpait albeit he be perplexed; he ihall 
not be forfaken, albeit he be perfecuted ; he (hall 
not be deftroyed, albeit he be caft down, a Cor. 
4. 8, 9. Upon thefe and the like Grounds, the A- 
poftle lived a comfortable Life, Th.L 4. xz. I 
know hotb how: to be abafed % and I know how to a- 
boundy every where and in all things I am ivJlruUfd, 
both to be full, and to he hungry f both to abound and 
fuffer need ; lean do all things, through Chrift who 
flrengthens me. Thus mud Chriftian Souldiers live 
in the midft of their toyling, itrwarfar, in wanr 
of many things, in watching and runing hazard 
of Life, in hope of Vidtory-and promifcd Glory, 
holding up their EJearts by Faith in Chrift. 

And thefe things which we have fpoken in Ex- 
plication of this Cafe, arc jnqt< intended to hinder 
the tender hearted Believer from pr aying,and en- 
deavouring by all Means, that the Face ofxlic 
Lord may lhine upon him, and that- he may be 
filled with the Joy of His Spirit; for we are char- 
ged to fcek His Face agd Strength continu^ 
ly, Pfal. ioj, 4. Butallour Speech doth drive 
at this mainly, that the Affh&ed in his AiP? 
couragement and unquietnefs meekly fubmit 
himfelf to the Will of God howfoever he be- 
exercifed, always going on in the way of Goi^ 



BOOK II. [ 4 oix ] CHAP. VIII. 

God according to his Vocation, through Honour 
and Dishonour, through good Report and evil 
Report, looking unco the Promifes which are 
made to him that cndureth to the end. And 
what is fpoken here of living by-Faith, muft not 
be abufed to fofter Neligence in well doing, or 
^bringing forth Fruits of Faith in every condition 
or to hinder the daily exercifeof Repentance,or 
to require of a Chriftian a ftoicat Stupidity un- 
der Trouble; but the thing we aim at,- is, That, 
the Chriftian in ail crofs Difpenfatidns and Vexa- 
tions, endeavour by Faith to be of good courage 
m the Lord, and endeavour to draw Vertue from 
Ch'rift to Bring forth Fruits, giving Glory to Him, 
wliatfoever mcafure He Hialtbeftowmore or lefs 
becaufd itiVChrift Who is made unto us Wtfdom 
and Righteoufnefs/Sanclification and Redemp- 
tion, and in Him alone fliall the Soul of theAf- 

Aided have reft/ Matth. i r . M . 
... . 

CHAP. IX. 

IVkereiK the Com erf s Dsuht, arijing from his un- 
srtshiy aixchattime-he was converted, isfohed. 

^Here are feme true Converts, who after 
they have paft a good part of their Jour- 
^ ncy to Heaven, begin to halt and make 
flow progrefe, by doubting whether I they 
be walking in the' true Converts foot- fteps, 
^r ^h^thbf' they %c* converted- at all, or 

net 




BOOK Ii. [413] chAp. IX 

not. The reafon of their doubting, arifeth 
from this, that in conference with iundry of 
the Saints of their acquaintance, they have : ob- 
ferved, that evry one of them could defign the 
time of their Convcrfion, and from that time can 
reckon their Age inChrift: Or, from "this is 
their Doubt ariferi, that in the Treatifeoffome 
modern Writer, they have read, or from th« 
Sermon of fome well cftecmed Preacher,they have 
heard fome iucli dodtrine; whereupon thttrue 
Convert falleth*>iir with himfclfin faying, 1 wa3 
bred and brought up in a Gbdly Family, I have 
followed the Exercifc of Rejigion; after hearing 
the Heads and Strmm ofChriftian Religion, i 
have embraced the Truth; I fe'enfed to my felf 
to belies in Chrift, and entert&iri the exercife oF 
Repentance, and to endCaVouf the' 1 amendment 
of iny Life ; I love thefe whom J "fee to live ho*- 
liiy, and! do hate the ways of the Profane, but 
becaufc I cannot tell when or what Day or Year 
1 was really converted, as I know fundryof the 
Godly of my acquaintance can eta ; therefore I 
doubt whether my Convcrfion be begun, or not, 
but mean tifrfef though I will notrarn ofTthe way 
I have been following, yet I'go on. halting arid 
heajdefs till.! he cleared of m}^t>oub^ 

a.For rcmoyingthis Doubt, we Wtift yield this 
ftr to the AfBicted-.that many indeed deceive them- 
{eivcs,who being civilly educatecF,and from their 
Bairn-age ac^ftomed with the exercife of Reli- 
gion 



BOQK IL , I414I CHAP. IX. 

gion ; . are nothing beyond the foolifii Virgins,and 
do rettfatisficd ; \vith their own and others Opinion 
of themfelvcs. Iffuch Perfons be queftioned, 
.when they began tq Repent, or Believe in Chrift; 
it is true they, cannot, defign the time when they 
were unconverted,, but have dill . been pleated 
and are pleafedr, with their own eftate, and in ef> 
fed: were never converted. But it is no lefs true 
00. die other hand, that there are fome who in* 
deed are re:ie\ve;d,in whom,peece and peece,with- 
x)ut any notable change, Faith and Repentance, 
and a hoiy Convocation, have grown with the 
growing knowledge of the Gofpei, and Will of 
jGod therein ;. of whom it may be truly faid, the 
the Kingdom of Heaven cometlv not with obfer- 
vation ; of whom it is faid, Mark' 4. 26, So is 
Kingdom of God, : as if a Man jhould cafl Seed into 
the Ground, and fh^uld flee p, and rife night and 
Jaj, and J he Seed jhoufd fprin^ jwd grow up, he 
fecweth net how. - 

ztlpyi to iblve the Deubt, ; it matters not whettyet 
t^fSO/lP^dff fifij know the day of his,Conyecr 
ifefa provided he.be indeed regenerat and made 
fgfiW Creature.' Wherefore the AiBi&ed.rnay be 
p^jgood courage, if ' after ferious Examination 
of his own Confcie;ice,he be "humbled, frequently 
jipthe fenfe, not only, of his a&uai Sins and Short- 
.coming of his Duty,, but alio in the fenfe of his 
■gnginai and . in- dwelling Corruption or body of 
jL^cath; if as he doth indeed h^Mxmklfand tQ- 
jounce all confidence ia his befi: Works Jo he feri- 

rioufly 



BOOK II r^fl CHAP. IX 

rioufly imbrace the imputed Rightcoufnefs of 
Ch'ri{t,and in His Scrcngth,by Faith in Him,doth 
endeavour to UveHolily,Righteoufly and Soberly, 
(albeit joined with many Imperfections) he may 
conclude he is Regenerat: for, if thefe three be 
joyncd in him in any meafurebf honcfty, he nee- 
deth not be anxious what Day, Month or Yeai 
the holy Siprit began to work thefe things in him. 
Only let him give all diligence to grow iti Humi- 
lity Faith and new Obedience, and hold on this 
way, whatlbever Doubts or Impediments he fhali 
meet with ; for the Apoftle cxeemeth fuch a 
Man from the number of Hypocrites and Un- 
converted, FhiL 3.3.^ (faith he) are the Circunt- 
cifion, (or the Chriftian Converts) who ivorfciptied 
in the Spirit, and rejoite in Chrijl Jejus* an J have 
no confidence in the fie fb. 

CHAR X, 

Wherein isfohed the Convert's Douli of his Rege- 
neration, arifing from his apprehenfton } that the 
beginning of the change of his Life, was not from the 
fincere Love of God, but either from Terror or 
Self love, which he conceivethto he hut carnal. 

Omc true Converts are, who can d'eiigri 
the time of the change of their way from 
Sin to Chrift, and to a holy Life, where- 
of they have not only the Church they 
live in, but alio their own Conference Witness; 

yet 




BOQKH. [416} CHAP.X. 

yet after a confiderable time, do fa.ll in fufpicion, 
whether that time of their change was the time 
of their effe&ual Calhng;fome of them bringing 
no other Reafori of their Doubting (ave this,that 
they were never much troubled with the Terrors 
of the Law, butrrioft part allured to draw near 
to God, and to eihew the way " of fuming 
by the love of eternal Life. Other (ome,doubt- 
ing of thefoundaefs of their Converilonjbecaufe 
the Terror of God and Fear of Condemnation 
and Hell prevailed more with them, for chan- 
ging their courfe, then the love of God and 
true Holinefs did; and both the one fort and 
the other do conceive the chief rife of their 
change to have been natural or'carnal^Self-Love,, 
fearing Harm, and loving Life. 

2. For removing of this Doubt, we grant a that 
there are many, who after fome notable delivery 
from Death,or fome notable Benefit received, or 
after fome lharp'Rod of Chaifcfcment for their 
Sin, have changed their outward way of living, 
left off gro(sVices,and led a more civil & blame- 
lefs outward Life^and yet have neither ferioufly 
repented them of &n,nor ferioufly fled in unto the 
Grace ofJefusChrift offered in the Gofpel,neither 
knowing what (avingFaith i$,nor careful to know 
it; but of fuch we do nor fpeak here, for wc 
are fpeaking of the true Convert and renewed 
Man,whoin the fenfe,of Sin is fled to Chrift,in 
the fenfe of his Un.worthmels maketh theGracq 

•ft 



BOOK II. { 417 ] CHAP.X 

offered hisRefuge,and in thefenfe of Indigence, 
lookedi up toChrift and feekcth Supply of Him 
in all things, and by the Holy Spirit is driving 
againft Sin, endeavouring in fbme meafure of 
Sincerity to bring forth the Fruits of Faith and 
Repentance; and yet for all this he doubteth of 
the Sincerity of his own Con ver Hon for the 
Reafbns forefaid. To this Souldier and Wrcft- 
kr we (ay ("as before we faid to him that doubt- 
eth of his Converfion,becaufe he cannot defign 
the time of his Converfion) it is not material by 
what Way,or Means or Motives a Man is brought 
unto Chrift, provided he doth come, and in- 
deed adhere to Chrift; it is all one whether the 
rife of the Man's turning ftom Sin to God, was 
Love alluring, or Terror driving him, whether 
a Benefit or a fliarp Rod, whether Fear or Hope 
did at the firft beginning of his change, mdve 
him to kek God ; provided, God mainfefted 
in the Fie lb Chrift Jefus the Redeemer of Sin- 
ners,be now his beloved Lord and precious in his 
Eyes: for, he that is mod fweetly allured to 
come to God, and without much Fear is conver- 
ted, who poflibly after feriousconvidion otSin 
and defcrved Death, is not keeped long ar the 
Door of Mercy, but forthwith is admitted to 
the Throne of Grace, aed tenderly entertained 
by the Spirit of Confolation, may^fall in hard 
Exercifcs afterward. This is evident in the ex- 
perience of the Prophet David, m whom his lire- 
thrcn^iving in the fame Family with him,did not 

per* 



BOOK It {418} CHAP. X 

perceive any figns of a forrowful or heavy 
Heart, as his Brother Elia&'s Words do fliew 
I Sam. 17. 28. I know thy pride \ and the naugbti- 
rejs of thy Heart. Thus did Elial judge of Da- 
iid\ chearful Carriage, whereof alfo we have 
fome evidence, that David was of a ruddy and 
beautiful Countenance, and for fome Years of 
his youth, did pals the time pleatantly, ferving 
God with his Songs and Harp,while he was fee- 
ding his, Sheep inthe Wildernefs : Now none can 
jufily qucftion his Cabverfion all this time, or 
his Sincerity in this fervice, yet afterward he 
was otherways exercifed : For oft-times he felc 
the Power of the Law upon his Spirit, and was 
tolled with the Terror thereof, and made to 
mourn and weep heavily .Suchdoth Joh's conditi- 
on (eem to be m his youth, as it isdefcribed, Job 
29. but afterward in the trial of his Faith, what 
a Conflift with Temptation he had, the facred 
Hiftorydothteftify. Therefore, there is no rea- 
fbn why any, in whom theft Evidences of a true 
Israelite are found in any meafure, fhould fuf- 
peeft the Sincerity of his Regeneration, becaufe 
he hath been gentlely handled in hisConverfion.* 
For it may come to pafs, that the fame Perfon 
may fall in fiery Trials and fo hard Temptations, 
as he may falUn doubt of his Converfion, ia re- 
gard of the fad AfHi&ions inward and outward 
whereby he is exercifed. In which Cafe he will 
be found to be miftaken no lefs then he was mi- 
staken in the former Cafe' and Condition; for, 

(omc 



BOOKH. [ 419 ] CHAP. X 

fomc dear Children of God may poflibly, both 
in their Conversion and moft part of their Life, 
be exercifed with the Terrors of the Law, and 
yet retain fafl hold by Faith on Chrift's Grace in 
tfiairdeepeft Afih&ions .• For inftance, we offer 
that precious Soul Heman, the Ezraite, who 
came near unto Solomon in the point of Wifdom, 
1 King. 4, 3 1. and yet how bitter his Afflictions 
of Spirit were, the 88 Pfalm beareth witnefs, 
specially, V. 13, 14, ij. But unto Thee have I 
cryed, Lord± and in the Morning fball my Prayer 
orevent Thee. And why cafiejl Thou off my Soul ? 
vhy hidefl Thou Thy Face frsm me ? / am affiiffed' 
md ready to die frim my youth up- while I fuffer 
Thy Terrors, 1 r am difir atled \ &c. And therefore, 
:here is no juft caufe, that any, in whom the 
evidences of Faith and Repentance may be 
bund, fliould call the Sincerity of his own Con- 
^erfion in qucftion, how hardly foever he fcem 
o be handled of God : for whofoever is joined 
othe Lord Jefus, and will neither fuffer hira- 
elf to be driven from Him, aor yet Will endure' 
Jhi to remain in himfelf uncontrolled, is certain 
y a true Convert, As for theie, who for fomc 
emporal caufe, are come to Chrift(as many 
id come in the days of His Flcfli) that they 
right be delivered from fpme temporal Evil, ' 
r obtain fome temporal Benefit, and for that 
aufe do doubt of their Convention or Sincerity 
Wreof, they need not difpute much about the 
ccafons ©f »tkcir- firft feekiag after God, 
P 4 pr^ 



ai 



BOOK II [ 4 iq ) CHAP. XL 

provided that; they have learned what Chrift's? 
Grace is, and do leek Righteoufnefs and Salva-?| 
tion in Him; for, we read in the Evangel, that C 
fundry, that they might be cured of Leprofie/ 3 
Pa!fie,Blindne(s, &c. came unto Chrift, who af- f 
terward came and adhered to Him by Faith, as I 
the only Redeemer and Saviour of their Souls., 
from Sin and Mifery. Wherefore in fuch Doub- 
lings, let not the Afflidcd trouble himfelf, nor 
call his Converfion inqucdion; but let him give 
all dilligenceto ftrengthen his Faith and to in- 
creafeinHolinefs, making hisCalling andEle&ioti 
fure by well-doing; For, if he do this, he fhall 
neither be found idle, nor unfruitful in the know- 
ledge of our Lord Jefus, as the Apoftle promifeth, 
% Pet. i. o.' 

CHAP, XL 
Wherein the Convert's Douht of his heing in the flute 
of Grace , arifing from heavy Jffliclions and grie- 
vous Tent at ions, isfolved. 



« 



SOme true Converts fometime fall into great 
Sufpicions of their Regeneration, of their 
effe&ual Calling, and, of the Love of God 
unto them, and that becaufe they meet with fore 
outward Afflidions, and are aflaulted alfo pof- 
fibly with horrible inward Tentations which do 
befal them unexpectedly, and are ready to fwat- J a| 
low them up ; for whereas, after divers Con 
Aids in their Converfion, and Peace of Con-. L 
fcience following after thefe fad Exercifes* of ^ 

Mind, 



JOOK II. [ 411 ] CHAP. XI. 

Mind, they hoped to have enjoyed God's Peace 
[Hill after, they do meet poflibiy with fad Cala- 
mities which they did not forefee nor fear, and 
and being yoked in conflict with more fearful 
Tentations than ever before, which they find 
rhemfclves unable to overcome, they fcem to 
hemfelves, to have juft caufe to call in queftion 
ill the former work of Grace in themfelves, and 
:o doubt of their Regeneration, and of their Re- 
conciliation with God. Of this fort, fome who 
ived in great Wealth and outward Profperity, 
lo fall in fo deep Poverty, that they are nei- 
her able to fuftain themfelves nor their Fami- 
ies, but arc forced to live on the privat Chari- 
y of others, or openly to beg. Other fome do 
all in heavy Sicknefies,yea in uncouth Difeafes, 
rfhidh but rarely do befal any, which feemto be 
Evidences of the Wrath of God. Other fome do 
all in horrible Tentations,and arc troubled with 
)lafphemous Suggeftions againft God and the 
loly Scripture, and the way of the Saints, which 
s fiery Darts do flick fall unto them, and dif- 
[uiet them continually. Other fome are temp- 
ed unto hainous Sins,and to fuch Wicked nefs a- 
;ainft themfelves or others, as Nature doth ab- 
or, to which adtsof Wickednefs they find them- 
:lves fo powerfully folifted, as they fear God 
ath decreed to give them over, and that they 
lail be overcome with the Tentacions ; 
)me after one way, fome after another 
ay, by one fort or other of Vexation, are 
Dd x toG 



fcO-O Kfl. [ 4t*4 C HA P. XIx I 

tofTed,fo as they fufpe<3: God-xs- purfuing thcin i 
in Wrath, and dealing with them otherways.than r 
with any of His Chiidrei. Whereupon ofttimes c; 
they break forth infad Complaints, and m - 
believing Sufpicions, faying, If God loved me C c 
He would not deafth us and thus with me; if I 
were a true Convert and Reconciled with God, t< 
He would not thus purfue me ; my cafe is mm 
the cafe of the Children of God, for any thing \\\ 
I know, and other fuch like Regrates and La-w 
mentation are uttered by them, 

i. For folvingrhis Doubt, we neither eftecraL 
fuch Exercifcs, and Tentations proper to the Re- \ 
generat Man, or a Tokeh of Regeneration; jnciHft 
rherjao we deny, that fuch Exercife$ may befall p 
true Converts : For, all forts of Afflictions ancLcc 
Calamities are common to the Good and Evil,y- 
to the Godly and. the Wicked, fo that by thofe 
Troubles and .Mifcries neither the Love orHa-£ 
tred of. God cari be certainly •.concluded: But itf 
thus much may be laid in reafon,.if thefe Cala^fce 
mitics . do befall a Man, while he is walking^ 
in his own finful ways, then are. they undoub-^ 
tedly to be interpret as Evidences, of God's Wrathjfrc 
at lead fatherly. Anger againfcthe : Auiid-ed,a:- 
to be efteemed as Fore warnings afniore and moot 
heavy Calamities to come upon him, yea, and 
final Perdition alio* if he do not Repent. 

3. In which cafe the Affiidted -fliall do we 
to humble himfelf before God, and givea good 
Confttuttion ofGcdVpurpofe.infending on h 

fuch 



ROOK If. r 413 J CHAP. XT. 

ufiich Calamities, in regard when He might forth- 
with have deftroved the Sinner He hath fent 
S forth thefe fad Afflictions to waken his Conlci- 
;, .snce, and to warn him to fly from the Wrath to 

* :ome leaft he pcrifh utterly.- 

I .4. He fliail do well alio to confider withhim- 
I felf, and. to acknowledge that ibch a bitter po- 

* don was necdlary, in io .deadly and dciperat 
9 like Difeafe, as his Soul was ''lying into ! For, 
fcwhat fhould the Lord dountb thofe whodifpiic 

:he worth of their own Souls and of eternal 
flLifc, and do feck their Felicity.in vain and pe- 
I rifhing Plcafurc, Profit and Honour? what fliail 
I Hie do with thofe whom He will not fuffer to 
J 3erifli with this evil World, but break their I- 
idols in peices and put themfelves to grief, who 
Ijrtex.His Holy Spirit. 

Wherefore let the Afflidted read his Sin in the 
£od wherewith he is beaten; if he be deprived 
if temporal Goods, or earthly Comforts, which 
ic hath abufed to the hazard of his own Soul, 
it God have the glory of Hisjufticc and Mercy 
ilfo, in that- He, by cutting- oft earthly Things 
rom him,is fending him tofeek Things fpintual 
uid everlafting. in Heaven, where Chriii: is at 
he right Hand of the Father, -Col. 3. hi 

If he be vexed wichTentationsunto Blafphc- 
nies, and fuclrhorrid fearful Sins, which even 
TJarure doth abhor, let him confider, that Mis- 
belief of Threatemngs and Promifes are no lei's in 
ffe£t,then realafierting ofBlafphcmies, and rhr.: 
D d ; car 



BOOK If. [ 4M 1 CHAP. XI 

entertaining of finfulLufts which fight againft hii 
Soul, is in effedt a defiling and destroying of hiiij- 
own Sou!;by which. Affii&ions and Tentations,i|o 
the Afflicted take not warning and repent, hc n; 
may juftly fear thefe Calamities and tormenting h 
Tentations are but the beginnings of Sorrows. 

But if thefe Calamities and fearful Tentatiotfc 
befal a Man walking in the ways of God, whc 
is a Believer in Chrift, who hath caften his An- 
chor within the Vail, and ftudietb in any mea- 
fure of Uprightnefs to pleafe God,let not fuch i 
Man be afraid; for, God is net purfuing him ir 
wrath, as Satan his Adverfary fuggefteth, but 
as a mod wife and loving Father is trying, anc w 
training his Faith, and bringing forth the E- 
vidence of Grace beftowed upon him. to th< 
Praife of His own Name,fhaming of Satan, and ( 
edifying all Beholders of this Man^s Exercife 
Wherefore let the Afflided comfort himfelfis 
the Lord, and be (Irong in the Faith of holy j 



Scripture, which is granted to the Church for up- 
holding of Believers in patience and hope of the 
promifed Reward ; For even Job, the holiefl 
Man on Earth in his Generation, was both fud- 
denly furprized with a multitude of concurring 
Calamities, and alfo deprived of all Confolatior 
from God and Man for a feafon ; for at once 
he was fpoiied of all his Goods, deprived 
of all his Children, tempted by his Wife rCf 
difpair, defpifed by his Servants, judged to be i\[ 
Hypocrite by his moll entire godly Friends, 

ftril 

4 



BOOK II. [ 42? ] CHAP. XI. 

ftricken by Satan with an unufual Plague of 
Botch-biles; and how far the Lord did hide all 
:omfort for a time,the Hiftory of his Complaints 
-make evident: Yea,burblefled Lord JefusChrift, 
hathTan&ified in His own Perfon, the hardcft 
Exercifes of this fort which HisChildren can fall 
into; for a-lbeit He -could not be defiled with Sin; 
yet He was tempted of Satan unto moft abomi- 
iable Sins, in fpecial He was tempted to caft 
Himfelf down from the Pinacle of the Temple, 
which was to kill Himfelf ; He was tempted to 
fall down and worfhipthe Devil, which O how 
horrible Blafphemy is it ? yea, for a time power, 
was given to Satan albeit not tohurtChrift, yet 
:o carry His Body from one place to another, £s ( 
we read in Matih. 4. and therefore let this be for 
Confolation to fuch of God's Children as arc 
vexed with vile and blafphemous Tentations, 
and Soliftations to abominable Sins, Heh.i. 18. 
For in that our Lord Him/e/f hath faffered, 
\being tempted, He is able to Juccour them 
that are tempted. 

4. But if the Afflicted infift, and fay, he is 
fo put to it by Satan's Tentations to commit S'm 
againft his light, and is ready to fuccumb, be- 
caufe he neither hath ftrength in himfelf torefift 
and (land out, nor is their appearance or hope 
bf God's aiTifting him in his Conflict, becaufc 
God feemeth to have not only* deferted him f 
but alfo to have given him over in the hands of 
an unclean Spirit to be vexed. 

D d 4 Unto 



BOOK II. [416 ] CfMF. XL 

Unco this Testation we anfwer, Firft, that 
the deareft of God's Children have been exetg 
ciied after this, manner : for' even the Apoftle 
Paul (2, Cor. ix. 7. ) there- was given to hima> 
Thorpe in the Flcfbjhe Mejfevger of Sat a* to hiffet 
him co keep him from Pride: Which Tentati<>f* 
vasfc.fUong and violent, that. he could not re- 
fill it by any lirength in himfelf, -but was forced 
to fly unto God by Prayer, and beg ftrepgjriv 
from Gitrift to bear him out againft the Tenta- 
tion,and to be; delivered from the power of it. 

.Secondly, Let the- Afflicted under this Exercife 

put a difference between the Siw of Satan the 

Tempter of him,, and his own Sin under the 

Tencation ; for, the fiery Darts of Satan, and 

fuggefted Blafphemies are Satan's Sins, and not- 

properly the Sins of the Aifh&ed,to whomtbefe 

xcd Tentations are not pieafant, but are his 

greateil afflidionJtis true indeed .that Tencations 

unto Sin in fome meafure draw on fomc degree 

of Pollution oft-times in finfyrl Men,becaufe it is 

not with us as it was with Chrift;- for when the 

Prince of this World 'came p tempt him, he 

had no ftuiTof. his own in Chrift to work upon; 

bui: when he cometh to Sinners, lip findeth our 

corrupt Nature. and Inclination toyeiidtohis 

Tentations, a$ his own Materials to work u- 

on, ready to be kindled by his fiery Darts ; 

dyeimuil we (till diftinguifli the £in of 5a- 

fuggefting and tempting, from the {liffering 

Vpoor atHicted Child of God, who is vexed 

with 



BOOK fl. [ 417 ] CHAP .Xf. 

•with the* Natation : fox if tlie Aiflided fliali 
own the TeQtatioti ashi^pvvnSto, and confound 
Satan's pgtfhaa4h is \ own pare in chat Excrcife, 
he isin^a#gatr,^;ke ; fwalbvyed up in the ihnCt 
of the' Sin wkfck i s CK> c his p^n, but Satans. 
- Third l\, The Afflicted- rauft put difference be- 
tween Sin and troublfoii)e;Exercife : For God is 
;riic Author of Trouble, whfcreby He is about to 
try,cxercifc^pd train {he Faith of his Child 
to teach hifri Patience, ^nd Hope under his 
Trouble ; but Satan is the Author of the Sin, 
whereunto he doth tempt the Affli&ed, and 
fliali be puniilied for it. 

Fourthly,. Let the. Afili&sd wifely obferve Sa- 
tan's drift, and wiles to drive him unto Sin one 
way or other, by.thefe his horrid and bitter Tenta- 
tions; forthough he prevail not with hisgrofler 
Testations, to caufe the Affh&ed commit or 
content unto that- Wickeq 1 ncfe which he fugge- 
fl.eth by hisjiery Darts, ytx he in feme meafiirc 
prevailed* ©ft-times by new Tentations follow- 
ing on the back of the other; for when he hath 
troubled the Soul of the affiled Child of God 
with thefe terrible Tentations, then he beareth 
in upon the Mind of the Afflicted, that he hack 
adted or contented to thefe vileBlaiphemies,and 
ibllidteth him to impatience, under this Trouble, 
and to doubt of God's love to him, and of his 
being in the (late of Grace, and to iiifped: he 
is not one of the Elecft,. and to fear that God 
Will not deliver him from thefc Evils whercun- 

to 



BOOK II. [428 ] CHAP. XL 

to he is tempted. Now, thefe latter Tentations 
oft-times prevail fo far with the Affli&ed, as he 
hearkens unto them, yeildsunto them in fame 
meafure, and fufpedts Satan's falfe alledgeancc 
to be too true. And fo thefe ad's of Unbelief, 
Impatience and Difcouragement, become indeed 
the Sins of the Affli(3:ed,becaufe they are not fo 
refiftedjdifclaimed^bhorrecl and forrowed for, as 
the firftfort of Tentations were, which do moft 
vex the Affli&ed. Thefe wiles dfSatan the Af- 
flicted mud bevVare of, left he continue in, or 
fofter thefe ordinary Sins, whereinto, that 
Satan might caft and catch him, he did lay his 
Net in thefe extraordinary Tentations. 

Fifthly, Let the Affii&ed after he hath percei- 
ved Satan's Wiles and Malice,and his ownFoolifh- 
nefeatod Weaknefs,k>okupon the Lord's wifepur- 
pofe; who by fuffering His Child fo to beexer- 
cifed is calling him to a deeper acknowledgment 
of his original Sin, that he may be humbled yet 
more before God,and loath himfelf yet more,and 
have Ghrift'sRighteoufnefs imputed to the Be- 
liever in higherEftimation.Upon which confidera- 
tion, let him (bprefs the removing of the trouble- 
(bme Tentation, as in rhe mean time he fubmit 
himfelf unto God, and patiently endure the 
Trouble, and put Repentance and Faith, Hope 
and Love to God in exercife, following his exter- 
nal Vocation as he is able, left Satan take ad- 
vantage of him if he be idle ; and withal let 
him have fuch a care of his bodily Health as 

he 



BOOK II. [ 4*9 ] CHAP. XL 

he may be fitted the better for God's Service in 
his Calling : For we are not our own, but 
Chrift's, Who hath bought us with a price,and 
are bound to glorify God both in our Bodies and 
Spirits, which are the Lords, 2, Cor. 6. 19. 20. 
and therefore, whether we Eat or Drink, or 
whatfoever elfe we are about,which is lawful,we 
ought to do it in His Name, and fo to glorify 
Him, 1 Cor. 10. 30, 

CHAP. XII. 

1 
Wherein is folved, the Convert's Douht of his Com- 
verfion arifingfrom the power of his Corruption, 
manifefting it j elf more after his entry upon the 
courfe of new Oledience, than it Aid lefcre he 
ieganto Repent. 

SOme Converts being yet but young Soul- 
diers in the Chriflian Warfare, when they 
find the Corruption of their Nature break- 
ing forth more powerfully , than it did before they 
did engage their Heart to (erve the Lord, do 
readily fall in deep Difcouragement and fad Su- 
fpicion, that the renewing Grace of God was ne- 
ver beftowed upon them, whatfoever were 
their Purpofes,Promifes,and Beginnings to mor- 
tifie their jLufts and Affe&ions. And we muft 
confefs that this is no fmall Tentati on .• For, 
they who have renounced the Service of their 
Lufts,and have confecrat their Life to God's Ser- 
vice 



BOOK tfc) [ 430 ] CHAP: XE 

vice, when they fmd; their Lufts pre vail,and like 
to'reign in them^no wonder they fufped: their 
Rats M\;Gzacc;/farlz Pet Chafi.r.z.Ver. zb.) it 
is told to us. If Men after they have efc aped 
the Pollutions of the World, .through the knowledge 
of the Lord and Savhur Jefiisj Chrift, they are a- 
faifcy.int angled therein, and overcome, the latter 
4tid is worje with them than the beginning: For, it 
had fieen better for them, not to have kno'&h 
the way of Righteoufnefs, than after they have 
known it, to tifcii from the holy Commandment 
delivered unto them. But it is happened unto 
them, according to the true Proverb, The Dogis 
turned to his own vomit again, and [the Sow that 
V>as wajhed to her wallowing in the Mire. 

2. This Condition indeed is perilous, when 
after profeiTion of Repentance, Sin doth recover 
its flrength again, and prevail over the whole 
Man, and .(hew -forth its vi&ory over him in the 
grofs pollution of the external Man: But moft o,f 
all is it perilous,' when the overcome ancHtf- 
fiaved Sinner, lyeth ftill in his Sin fenfelefs and 
iecure, and doth pieafe himfeif ia iris Pollutions ; 
for, whatsoever h^ may be, the holy Ghoft 
points him forth among the Unregenerat as a 
DogorSow.Iffuch a -Man after a time fhali Ro- 
pent and bewail his Conditioned icthimfelfto 
the feeking of God in Ghrift^md to draw Grace out 
@f Chrili to Mortifte his- Liasfts, Ave {hall not pro- 
Hounce or determine of liis former eftate, whe- 
ther he was before that time Regenerat or not,but 

for 



BOOK IT. t 4jt ] CHARvXlL 

for the prefent Cafe of his Reperiting,he i# on the 
way toevidence his Regeneration more clearly 
than before ; only let him take heed to Hum- 
ble himfelf in earned before God, -and to Repent 
more ferioufly, that fo he may confirm himfelf, 
and go on in the courfe of Faith and Obedience of 
the Evangel,ftrengthening*his Brethren as Titer 
was commanded to do by our Lord, LuL hwi 21. 

3. Bur if Corruption of Nature do not break 
forth to defile the whole Man, but inwardly ftir- 
reth and ftriveth to bring its oki Serrant ineo 
bondage again ; unto which Tentations albeit 
the Affit&ed do. not fuccumb, yet he is fhaken 
and daggers in his Faith, doubting of his ftate, 
and of the fineeri.ty.of his Converfion,becaufe he 
findeth the power of Sin in him more vigorous, 
than he had found it before the change of his 
old Converfation. We do not deny, but this 
cafe is readily incident unto fiich as are lately 
converted from Formality in Religion, and fair 
civil carriage before Men, to true Repentance 
and inward Hblincfsbefeeming^G^r//?/^//. This 
Cafe, becaufe it may have fundry Caufes, doth 
requite alfo fundry Cures. 

4. Fir II, This Cafe may^befal a young Con- 
vert, who becaufe he hath not as yet gotten 
tke exepcrience of his own weaknefs, isfome- 
what puiIed up in the conceit of his own ftrength* 
and is more confident than he hath reafon, that 
the Sincerity of his Purpofe,fhall bear dswaaad 
overcome all his fpiritual Enemies, fo oft as they 

fliali 



BOOK II. [ 43*1 CHAP. XII. 

fhall oppofc his holy Refolutioh in this Cafe, what 
wonder is it, that the Lord by a new proof of 
the Man's weaknefs, Jet him fee, that it is not 
in him that willcth, or in him that runeth,but in 
God that hath mercy ? to the intent his Pride 
may be broken down,: and that he being hum- 
bled in himfelf, may learn not to truft anymore 
to himfelf, but to God, to Chrift, who by His 
Spirit maketh His Children to mortifie Sin in 
themfelves, as the Apoftle teacheth us, ! Rom. 8. 
13. faying, If ye mortifie the Deeds cfthe Flejh 
by the Spirit ye /hall live. 

Therefore the Affli&ed in this Cafe, muft be- 
ware to fret or murmure, or entertain fufpicions 
of God's Grace in himfelf, but racher let him 
after experience of his own weaknefs, humble 
himfelf and renew the Exercife of .Repentance, 
and refolve in the ufe of the Means to lean to 
the ftrength of Chrift, Who doth Help his Soul- 
diers in their Conflict againft Sin and Satan, ei- 
ther by giving them the Vi&ory quickly, or eife 
fuftaining them in the Conflict by HisGrace,as 
He did the Apoftle,z Cor.iz. 7. to whom Chrift 
did not grant the vid:ory,till he,defpairing of his 
own Ability to ftand out againft the Meilenger of 
Satan,did humbly beg Deliverance from the Ten- 
tation, and then He gave him afiurance, that the 
affiftance of His Grace ihould prove fuflicient 
to fiiitain him in the Conflict, and to deliver 
him ia due time. 

Secondly, This Cafe may fall out by the meer 

Ma- 



BOO KjH. [ "433 1 CHAP. XII. 

;Malice of Satan, who doth fet hirftfelf to vex 
•the young and tender Convert,latcly taken out 
of his Dominion, to the intent he may make 
him repent his coming out of Egypt, if it be pot 
fible, and by leading out againft him anew Ar- 
my of Temptations, may move him to defpair 
of the vi&ory, and fo bring him back to the 
Flcfli Pots, -and taking on again the yoke of 
Bondage, if he can. 

x.And here conilderation muft be had,of God's 
wife and holy Permiflion, who fuffereth Satan to 
put a young Convert to fo hard Trials,thatinthe 
weaknefs of His own Child, He may make c- 
vident His great power, in upholding His young 
Souldier againft the foreft Aflaults of Satan; and 
His VVifdom,in breaking by this mean the ftrength 
of in-born Corruption, raging againft the Work 
of Grace in His Child. 

In this Cafe, let the Affli&ed remember he 
is called to give a proof of his Faith and Since- 
rity, that he may acquit himfelf manfully ; and 
not be afraid of the power of Temptations but I 
bear out ftoutly,refifting Satan, being confident 
of the victory, and of trampling Satan under his 
Feet fliortly; yea pre-fuppofe with inward Temp- 
tations, external Perfecution be joined, let the 
Lords Souldier follow the example of the godly 
Hebrews, whom the Apoftle doth exhort to 
prepare themfelves, after: >Spoliation of their 
goods, to meet with grievous Affliction, under 

I hope t© overcome, 'Htk to. jto 36. and u. 4. 
3 This 



B0OK ft [ 434 J CHAP. XII feO 

>:bj.^This Cate iHa^4nll -our, notfomuch from L: 
the growing power of Corruption, as from rife W 
growing light of Grade, discovering Sin moftjfins, 
clearly than before RegeneratiomEor he,who be^ m 
fore Regeneration, was lying dead in Sin,didriofc ,t, 
feel the weight bf Sin at -all, or was feofible only of L 
gro(sOut-breakings 3 but when the clearer Light r> u te 
of the Law doth comejOpeningup the Dens and fed 
Caves of Narure's Corruption, out of which come teo 
forthLcgionsoffinful Motions,and amongft thefe, 
fundry Monfters of unperceived wick'ednefs, are &h 
difcovcred to the young Convert, what wondeg tag 
be be afraid, arid caltan many Doubts and Su* M 
fpicions? For, if eventhe Apoftle Paul himfelf, 
our of the fenfe of inherent Sin, and of the Bonds 
thereof, where-with he did find- himfelf bound, 
wis compelled with. Tears ttf ery^but, Mifera- p r 
hie Man that I am 9 who /hall deGh^r-we from the 
My of- this.^Deaihl Rem. 7. 24. what won- 
der is it that a Novice in Religion do- tremble 
when heifeethand fmelleththe Dunghil and fil- 
thy Stable of his awn: unclean Heart > 

. .In this Cafe, all the Comforts which the Go- 
Ipel doth furniili ar,e to be miniftred to the Af- 
fli&ed, Hope is to be foftered in him of Vidtory 
over all thofe Evils; the Wifdom of God is to U 
be fet forth before his Eyds under this Exercife, & 
wherein the Lord hath brought to light die la- 
tent Corruption of Nature, of ftt purpofe, tha'^p ( 
he might yokerHis young Soiddier in Combat 
with k, and give him the Vidory by ths holy 

Ghoft 



0t( 



k 

k 
id 

_r 
on 

id: 
Lc; 



JOOK II. [ 435- ] CHAP. XII. 

jjhoft, over not only thofe Evils which do 
[rouble him for the time, but alfo all other 
>ins, and fo promoveth the Mortification and A- 
)olition of the whole Body of Corruption in him. 
4. The fourth Caufe is, or may be this, that 
le Affli&ed hath notfuch eftimation of the im- 
uted Righteoufnefs of Chrift as is requifit, but 
vith the flighting of ChriftsSatisfa&ion and Righ- 
eoufnefs purchafed to the Believer by Chrift, 
;oech about to eftablifli his own Righteoufiiefsj 
vhereupon the Lord difcovereth his fhort-com- 
ng in San edification, which in this Life isimper- 
ed-, and fliould indeed be followed after care- 
iilly,butnot berefted upon. It is indeed natural 
into us, to feek to havePerfe&ion in our felvcs, 
or our own Glory, and not to follow the way 
>refcribed to us of God,for perfecting of us unto 
he Glory of God, as may be feen in the flower 
Hfrael after the Flefti, Rom. 9: and 10. Now 
le Order of God is,that we fliould be firft jufti- 
ed by Faith in Chrift without the works of the 
.aw -that is,God will have us in the firft place to 
onfefs unto Him ourSins, and renounce all con- 
idcnceinour own Works before, in,and after our 
Zonverfion, and to renounce all confidence in 
urovvn VVorthinefs or our own ftrength, and be- 
lke us to that Rightcoufnefs,which by the Obe* 
ience and Satisfa&ion of Chrift is purchafed 
nto us, and offered in the Gcfpel robe ac- 
quitted ours of meer free Grace. In the fecond 
lace, God will have us, being clcathed with 

E e (Thrift's 



BOOK II. [ 43$ ] CHAP. XII. 

Chrift's imputed Righteoufnefs, to approach un- 
to the Throne of Grace, that by Faith in Chrift, 
We may receive the power of the holy Spirit in 
a larger and larger meafure, for encreafing our 
San&ification more and more. And in the third I 
place, He will have us, as wc profit and grow in \ 
Holinefs,to giveThanks &Praife &Glory thereof 
untoGod injefus Chrift, Who bothjuftifieth us 
and fan&ifieth us by His own Spirit; and in as 
Far as we come fiiortin the meafure of San&ifi- 
cation which we aim at, He will have us to be 
humbled in our felves, and lay fader hold on 
Chrift Who juftinethus ; that He by His Spirit, 
may more and more fandhfie us, and that be- 
caufe Chrift is made of God unto us, not only 
bur Righteoufnefs but alfo our Sanclincation, as 
theApoftic tcacheth us.i C0/M.3O. Now when a- 
ny Man breaks this order, and feekcth Juftifka- 
tionby ChriQ; but Sandhncation by himfclf, as | 
it were; and when he findeth Sanclification not 
to grow as he hoped it Ihould, doth notfiy in to 
the Garment of Chrift's imputed Righteoufnefs, 
which alone is able to hide hisnakednefs, Revel. 
3. 18. but in ftead of humbling himfelf in the Ex- 
ercife of Repentance isready ro call hisjuftifica- 
tion and Convcrfion in qucftion, and to caftita- 
way as it were,what wonder is it, that God ,being 
juftiy oilended, becaufe the Righteoufnefs o£* 
Chrift is not in due eftimation and precious iri 
that Man's Eyes, doth not grant unto him a be 
ier meafure of San&ificatioii.cfpcciaily while h§ 

is 



k 



1 BOOK If, [ 437 ] CHAP. XII. 

• is contending to have his own prefcribed mcafure 
of Sandtification, with the prejudice of that di- 
vine Righteoufnefs which is by Faith in Jefus 
Chrift,and will not, as a humble Penitent, hold 
grip ofChrift's Righteoufnefs, except he obtaia 
iueh a mcafure of Snn&ification and freedom 
( from wrcftling with Sin, as he hath refolvcd to 
us find in him(e)f,hefore he can Hand to his iutcreft 
M m Chrift for J unification? What wonder is in, 
jy that God fuffcr Sin in the Afflicted ro put forth 
he its power more than before, xhat He may teach 
J His young Convert and Souldicr, ignorant of his 
J Duty, and of God's order of proceeding with his 
Children, to be more wife, and to adhere more 
ciofcly under the fenfe of his finfulnefs, unto the 
Righteoulhefs of Chrift, unro which he did fiy 
and was forced to fly in hjs Converfton? As alio, 
that He may teach His Child, That Sandb'nca- 
tionmufl.be drawn out of no other fountain than 
Chrift, out of Whofe Fulnels we nuift receive 
Grace for Grace, and who by Faith appliethto 
His redeemed Ones His imputed Righteoufnefs, 
and by Faith applieth and worketh in" t hern 
San<5tificatiofi,purchafed unto them in the Cove- 
nant of Redemption? 

5-. Wherefore, for Remedy of this Miftake, 
Firft, Let the AfHi&ed, when he perceived* 
and feeleth the power of Sin to be more than 
conceived he Ihould have found in himfelfaf- 
:er hisConverfion,lethim^lfayyforth\vith humble 

E e 1 him- 



BOOK II. [ 458 ] CH A P. XII. 

bimfelf before God,acknowledge his natural Un- 
c!eannefs,and utter Inability by his own Strength P 
to refill Sin, and being humbled at the Heart let h 
him blefsGod.who of His frceGrace hath prepared ^ 
and freely granted unto him a Righteoufnefs pur- L 
chafed by Chrift, 2 Cor. 5. 21. with which be- 
ing cloathed,he may (land before the Tribunal c: - 
of Grace abfolved. Next, let him earneftly and'G 
daily pray, that he may both hold fad Grips of P 
that Righteoufnefs of Chrift by Faith and out of r 
the fame Fountain of God's glorious Grace in F 
Chrift, ftudy to increafe in San&ification, and 
peece and peece to mortifie and abolifh the Cor- 1:: 
ruption of Nature, thirdly, let the Afflicted " 
ufe the Ordinances and Means appointed of God W 
for mortifying of Sin, and reparation of the I- ; 
mage of God in him.. And Fourthly, let the Af- i 
fiicled, in the ufe of appointed Means and Or-l^ 
dinancesof God byFaith look untoChrift,that out [ 
of Him he may fuck fap,and the furniture of His * 
Spirit to bring forth good Fruits : For, withr 
Hi wive can do nothing^ hat [five abide in Him, rre r 
fhall bring forth abundant Fruits. John 15. 5. 



to 



CHAP. XIII. 
Wherein is fohed the Convert's Doubt, whether he * 4 
be in the (late vf Grace, a fifing front his comparing} 1 
of hi mj elf with the Hypocrite and Unregenerat^ 
in ihofe Perfections they may attain unto. 

SOmetime a true Convert, when he percci- J | 
veth how far fpecious Hypocrites may make : 

pro 



r: 



iOOK If- 439 ] CHAP. XIH 

:>rogrefs in the way of Righteoufnefs, with 

low many Vertues they may be endued, with 

iow many Gifts they may be adorned,how-like 

:he foolilh Virgins may be unto the wife, and 

iow far temporary Faith may carry a Man,efpe- 

:ially when it is busked with fpiritual common 

Gifts how many glorious Profeflbrs of the true 

"Chrijlian Religion have made Apoftacy, how 

Jnany ways men do deceive themfelves,and may 

boflibly further and further deceive themfelves, 

}'of which felf deceiving s (bmewhat is fpoken 

In the end of the former Book) what wonder is 

t, the weak Convert ftagger, and fear left he 

ilfo cl^ceivc himfelf, efpecially when he feeth 

lothingin himfelf which may not be counterfeit? 

2. For loufing of this Doubt, wherein many 

lave been pufled, we muftyeildto the Afflicted 

that there are many indeed,who do deceive and 

icftroy themfelves with their vain Thoughts; 

vhichbecaufe it doth very frequently come to 

Dais, it ihould Air up all men to be circumfpedi 

md wary left they deceive themfelves in the 

natter of their Salvation, and for that intent to 

examine themfelves whether they be in the 

aith, zCor. 13. left they be beguiled, and (a 

>eri(h. And becaufe tender Faith is eafily hurt, 

1 .11 their fear muftbe turned into a holy Care- 

ulnefs, to be found fincere and ferious in the 

itb of the Lord's Ordinances, left Satan beguile 

hem on the right hand or on the left. And for 

his end, we offer Advice to the Afli&ed to dif- 

Ec; corn 



K 

»n< 

ii 
;c 
nil 

H 



BOOK II. [ 440 } CHAP. XI; 

cern Things that differ, and firft to diftirigiiifl [ 
Gifts, commoirto Hypocrites- 'and true Con 
verts, from laving Graces or ■ CfencntS accompa 
nying Salvation: For, learning, and skill t( 
govern great Matters, and Eloquence and Un 
derftandmg of deep Myftcrics, and Revelatiot 
of Things to command the Gift of working Mi- 
racles, and the Gift of Preaching the Gofpel 
may be granted unto the Unregenerat for thi 
.Ufe and Edification of the Church: The obfer- 
ving of this difference iliall teach the Affli&ec 
:to efteeni well of all the Gifts of God, whicl 
may icrvc for humane Soeiety, or to edifie the 
Church,but not to look upon them as Evidences 
of Regeneration; for they are nothing in compa- 
rifon of Saving Graces; for, if he iliall ftudy tc 
Humility und Repentance toward God, and Faith 
toward Tefus- Chrift, and love to God and His 
-Saints .and to a holy Life by the Grace of Chrift 
in any meaiure, let him efteem more of them, 
than of all thefe common Gifts how glorious 
foever they feem.As alfo let him -put a difference 
betwixt the: judgment of Charity concerning o-i 
ther Men's eftate, which contents it feif with 
Probabilities,and the judgment of Certainty and 
real Verity, concemi jg his own eftate, which 
proceeds from the operation of the holy Spirit, 
bearing witnefs to our Spirits, that we are the 
Children ofGod & revealing unto us whatThingS 
are freely given to us ofGod,to wit,among other 
gifts,giving i?nto ; iis Eye falve to make us know, 

that 



pO OK II: [ 441 ] CHAP, XIII. 

jjhac we arc blind, poor, naked and miferable, 
1 ^ 7 ith Grace leading us to by without Money or 
1; Price from thrift. Gold tried in the Fire, 
;cr ind Garments to hide oar Nakcdnefs, which 
'As the Righteoufhefs of Chrifl: imputed un- 
io us. In the judgement of Charity concer- 
ning other Men's eltate, we fee nothing fave 
j'whatis outward ; and cannot pierce into their 
gflearts, which God only can and doth fearch; 
.but concerning our own cftate, we may know 
j c rrainly, if we fearch well, 1 Cor. 3. 10, tx, u. 
^Yherefore tlVat the Affl&ed' may overcome this 
.Doubt, let Him leave unto God the judgement 
* of the Hearts of chefe Hypocrites and . Apoftats, 
which were never humbled in the fenfe of Sin,' 
nor fcrioufly believed in Chrift; but to farisfie 
bimfelf concerning his own eflate, lcthimftudy 
j to difccm the power of Sin in himfelf more 
and mor?, and daily be humbled before 
God in the fenfe of it. And. the more he 
cliiccrn the loathibmenci's of Sin in himfelf, 
let him rjid more heartily embrace Chrift. 
offered in the Gofpcl, and confecrat himfelf 
wholly unto Him, that in His Furniture, 
drawn by Faith out of Chrift, he may 
bring forth good Fruits, and add one ver- 
tue to another, and fo ihall he be fure, that 
he hath paficd the p-erfeftioti of the Un- 
regenerct, and is a true fubjedt of the King- 
donr of God ,efle£hia;ly called, and ele- 
cted of God unco eternal Life, 2 Pct.i.j y 6, 7.8, 
fie 4 ' CH'A P. 



BOOK II. [ 44 x ] CHAR XIV. 

CHAP. XIV. 

Wherein is folved the Doubt of the true Convert, 
whether he be in the Bate of Grace, becaufefome 
godly Perfons look upon him as an Hypocrite. 

SOme true Converts, do fufped: themfelves 
not to be true Converts, becaufe fome of 
the godly of their Acquaintance (whofe 
Judgement othcrways is not to be lightly re- 
jected ) not only do fufped them to be Hypo- 
crites, but by words fpoken of them and be- 
haviour towards them, declare their Judgement 
of them. 

2. This Tentation doth not a liitle afflicSt the 
weak in Faith, who of themfelves are ready to 
call in queftion their own Converfion, and when 
they perceive their own flifpicion of themfelves, 
to be as it were confirmed by the fufpicion and 
Teflimony of fbme Saints, ( howfoever raflily 
judging other Men's Hearts) no wonder the 
Tentation of Satan, queftioning whether they be 
the Children of God, grow ftrong againft them. 

By this Stratagem Satan u fibril to aflault the 
flrongeft in Faith, and to vex them at lead, as 
we may fee in the exercife of Job, whofe Faith 
was mightily aflaulted when his godly Friends 
miftock his affliction, and condemned him as a 
wicked Hypocrite. The like we fee in the ex- 
ercife of the Prophet. Pf. 38. n. when his Friends 
flood aloof from hts Plague. .. 

3. For 



BOOK II. [ 443 1 CHAP XIV. 

3. For flxengthening the Affli&ed under this 
Tentation ; Firft, let him examine himfelf fo 
much the more acuratly, becaufe of the Sufpi- 
cion that the Godly have of him ; After which 
(examination, if he find any mcafure of forrow 
for Sin in himfelf, and of Faith flying to Chrift 
for Relief, andofendeavourtolive holily, righter 
oufly and foberly, albeit joyned with much in- 
firmity and manifold imperfections, let him not 
cad away his Confidence, but rather ftrengtben 
what he findeth of the Lord's gracious work in 
?him, although it feem to him ready to dye. 

Secondly, .Let him confider whether this Exercife 
and Affii&ion be a Corre&ion from God,chaftifing 
him for his ralh Judgement of others, whom pof- 
jfibly he hath wounded with fuch ralh fufpicionsof 
them: but whether he find this or ftot,let him not 
Idefpife this Exercife,but be humbled before God in 
the acknowledgement of the Reliques of Hypo- 
Icrify in our corrupt Nature & fly unto Chrift ( in 
WhofeMouth there was no guilejthat he may be 
zloathed with His RighteoumefsHead &Feet;and 
let him ftudy unto more and more Sincerity, that 
le may approve himfelf toGod,& to difcreetjudg- 
es of hisConverfation,& let him not alienat him- 
felf altogether (b far as in him lyethfrom them,by 
whole Sufpicions his Faith and good Name hath 
been wounded,but inHumility &Charity towards 
:hem,in the conftant following of Piety towards 
3od, and RighteoufneG towards men, labour to 
sommend himfelf to all Men's Confcienccs. 

And 



BO O K II [ 444 ] j CH A P. XIV; 
And in Co doing" he necdeth not Hand for the 
rafh judgement of any Man : For, by fo doing 
Job was victorious over this Testation in his 
Conflict with his Friends: And it is fure, that 
Men may be deceived in their Judgement ofo- 
ther Mcnseftate; for Fir (I, the ignorance of ano- 
ther Mans Heart, maketh the Judge to judge 
what he knoweth not. It is true, God hath 
gtantedunto Kis Children Liberty according to 
His Word,to judge ofthe Actions of other Men, 
and from their ildions to judge of their con- 
dition and temper in relation to thofe Adrions ; 
but to judge of their State who outwardly do 
what is right, doth not belong to Men, but to 
God, Who hath referved toHimfelf the fearch- 
ing of every Man's Heart, and only knoweth 
who is the Upright and who is the Hypocrite 
who is the Wife and who is the Foolifli 
Virgin, the outward Conversation of bcrh 
being like one to another. Again to know 
another Man's Manners, Ingine, IncHnunon' 
and way of his Life, doth r quire long 
converting with him, comparifon of Ins Adrions 
one with another, and a prudent conjunction of 
all Signs of his inward Difpofition, b:fore a dii- 
creet charitable judgement can be had of him. 
And whofoever do judge rafhiy of other Men's 
Hearts,do not well know their own Heart, or of 
what Spirit they are in judging: For, many prc- 
fume too much tojuftiSc their own condition and 
ftate,& make themfeives to be asRulcs&Paterns' 

ifnto" 



BOOK II [ 445 ] CHAP. XV. 

urlto others, and fo become too too rigid Cenfu- 
rers and feverejudges of other Men's conditions 
and ftate, except they find it like to their own. 
And if there be any diflimilitude of Manners or 
difcrepance of Judgement, or contention about 
any Matter, then Partiality hindereth a right 
Judgement one of another,and Affe&ion rparreth 
Reafon many times that it cannot difcern what 
is right. 

Therefore let the Pcrfon affli&ed with this 
Tentation,turn himfelf to God Who fearcheth 
the Reins, and let him humble himfelf in His 
fight, renewing the exercife of Repentance and 
Faith in Chrift, and let him Apply to himfelf 
what the Scripture doth pronounce of thefe who 
in the fenfe of their Sin do fly to Chrift Jefus, 
thatinHim they rr^iy have remidion of Sin and 
amendment of theirLife: For fo did the Prophet 
in the whole PfaL 17. when he had to do with 
his uncharitable Friends and Kinsfolk, and fo' let 
the Afflicted do. 

C H A P, XV. 1 
Wb erein the Convert's Jouhting of his ieing in the 

J} ate of Grace Jo oft as he doth not feel ihe fenfe of 

his Reconciliation with God, is examined and 

anfivered. 

^i Ome true Converts are, who indeed are en- 
^^ dued with the faving Graces of Faith,Hope 
^* and Charity,and give evident proof of the 
in- dwelling of the holy Spirit in tiiem & do rejoyce 

novr 



BOOK II. [446] CHARXiV 

now and then in God their Saviour, when His love 
to them is died abroad in their Hearts, but when 
a Cloud cometh over their Eyes,and they do not 
feel the warm BeamsoftheSunof Righteoufnefs 
Jhining in their Soul as they before havefelt,they 
are aflaulted with doubting, if any faving Grace 
be in thetn at all,and do entertain thefe Tenta- 
tions oftimes,fo far as to fufpedt & exprefs inWords, 
that there is no folid Faith in thernfelves,no live- 
ly Hope, no Chriji Han Charity, no Mortification of 
Sin, no Purity ofHeart, and fuch like; if when 
they are thus tempted and toiled they lay hold 
on Chrift, as in their firftGonverfion, and find the 
fenfible comfort of the holy Spirit by the Word of 
the Gofpel applied unto them,thenall is weli,their 
doubting is overcome for the time, they rejoice & 
praife God.-But if the Lord (hall delay,forHis own 
wife Ends, to renew their leftfible Confolations, 
and to renew theEarneft:- penny of theirlnheritance, 
forthwith they begin to doubt again, & to hearken 
toSatan's fuggeftions,& to fufped: that their former 
feelings were but temporary, and not the fpecial 
Operations of the holy Spirit,and at length break 
furth in many fad Complaints. An4, in a word, 
they do not maintain the work of faving Grace 
inthemfelves longer than the Sunfliineof fpiritual 
felt Confolations abideth with them. And albeit 
their Exercife be no ways fo hard as was the 
Prophet's, Pfal.77.yet they fall out.in the fame 
Complaint which the Prophet cxprefleth, Verfe 
7, 8. 9, Will the Lord ca/l off for ever ? and 

win 



BO OK II. [ 447 1 CHAP. XV. 

will He be favour ahle no more ? is His mercy clean 
gone for ever ? doeth His Promife fail for ever- 
more \ hath God forgotten to be gracious? hath 
He in anger font up His tender Mercies. 

2. For clearing of this Cafe, two difeafes may 
be perceived in the Afflicted which is here de- 
feribed. The one is this, the Afflicted fetteth 
himielf to live rather by fenfe than by Faith, 
and doth put his Faith on work offer purpofe 
that he may obtain or recover Confblations 
iliortly ; but if his defire be not fhortly granted, 
he maketh noc ufe of die formerly felt Confola- 
tions to ftrengthen his own Faith when Confola- 
tion is withdrawn. The other ficknefs is this, 
the Affli&ed doth not take up the Nature of fav- 
ing Graces, nor perceive the beauty thereof, ex- 
cept in thefun-fhineof fenfible divine Approba- 
tion thereof,he doeth not take up the Right de- 
finition or defcription of faving Graces : For 
Faith is to him nothing, if it be not a full Per- 
fwafion ; except he can pour forth Tears always, 
he thinks he doth not repent ; except he find a 
joyful expectation of Chrifr coming in Glory, 
he thinks his Hope not lively; andfo of Chari- 
ty and Patience,Temperancc, Righteoufnefs and 
Holinefs, if he do not find them in fome emi- 
nent meafure as they may near by Hand before 
the Law, the Afflicted of whom we are now 
fpeaking, thinketh he hath nothing of faving 
Grace in him. Wc grant that this Sicknefs is 
i very rare, and few they are that are troubled 

with 



I5UUK1I. L 44 s 1 CHAP XV. 

with it; yet where it appeareth, it mod be 
fpeedily cured, but with great circumipe&ion 
cured; for the earned defire he hath of feeling 
the fvvect fenfe of the joy of the holy Ghoft, 
mud not be difallowed, but commended to 
him, and he taught to cry as it is faid, Cant. z. 
5. Stay me pith Flaggpns, comfort me with Aples, 
for I amjick of love, yet with holy Submiilion 
unto Gods Will for time, manner and meafure. 
2,. He is alfo to be commended, that in his 
trouble he goeth to God in Chrift, not alto- 
gether without Faith, which he puteth forth in 
a drive exercife thereof by ConfeiTion ofSin,by Sup- 
plication and otherways; but here is he to be 
reproved, that while he is actually exercifing 
Faith, Love, Hope, &c. he reckoneth all he 
doth to be nothing, no Faith, no Hope, &c. 
becaufeitis not in fuch a meafure as he would. 
3. He is to be commended, that he doth aime at 
the higheft Degrees of Faith, Love, Hope, 
Patience, Mortification of Sin, and Practice of 
Holinefs, and all commanded Vertues ; but 
here he faileth, that he counteth all as nought, 
when Confolation and fenfible Approbation of 
what he hath is not felt; for here he defpifeth the 
day of fmall things,and unthankfully Mif-regard- 
eth the lower degrees of the'le faving Graces, 
which notwithftanding are bought to the Re- 
deemed by the fame price, wherewith the high- 
eft degrees are bought, to wit, with the preci- 
ous Blood of Jefqs Chrift. 

3. Where- 



BOOK II. [449] CHAP XV. 

3. Wherefore let the.Affii&ed confider, Firfl, 
that the Will of God revealed, requireth of us, 
that we walk hy Faith, and under the fenfe of 
our Sinfulnefs and ArHi&ions whatsoever, hold 
fall the Covenant of Grace in Chrift Jcfus, and 
bv adhering unto Him hold up our Heart, and 
entertain fpiritual Life in us. Secondly, let him 
confider, that this way of living by Faith and 
dependence on the Word of Gods Grace, doth 
pleafe the Lord well ; for, without Faith it is 
impoflible to pleafc Him; and thus living by 
Faith in Him, doth give more Glory of Truth, 
Grace, Mercy and Conflancy unto God than 
when we fufpend the glorifying of Him, till we 
find the fenfe of Confoiation from Him: For if 
we believe in God, only becaufe we find the 
Co:i(olations of Hi$Spirir,ourFaith in that cafe is 
weak.&leaneth more upon the pledge &fenfible 
evidence of His Truth bellowed upon us, than 
upon HisPromife without a Pledge: For, no Man 
will refufe to give credit to a Man upon a Pawn, 
but God is worthy to be credited upon His 
Word without a Pawn,yca, when His Difpenfa- 
tion feemeth contrary to his Promife. thirdly, 
let him confider, that the Lord ufeth to give 
fenfible Confolations not only to help our Faith, 
in the time of Confoiation, but alfo to help our 
Faith when theConfolations are withdrawn from 
i;>. and we are pu: to hard excrcife.- wherein it is 
our duty to glorifie our God for His Truth and 
prace,whcreof we have fometimc had confirma- 

ti- 



BOOK II. [450] CHAP. XV. 

tions by felt Confolation, and patiently to wait 
till He reftore unto us the joy of His Spirit: For 
if in the want of fenfible Confolation we fliall 
put Afperfions upon the Lords Work and Graces 
beftowed upon us,and call them inqueftion, we 
fliall be found in fo doing more careful of felf- 
fatisfa&ion than to do theDuties which God re- 
quireth of us. Fourthly, Let the AffMed learn 
fo to defcribe and define every Saving Grace of 
Faith, Repentance, Hope, Love and Mortifica- 
tion of Sin, as tlieDefcription, may take in the 
meaneft meafure of thofe Graces; for, it is hard 
to fay, that there is no found Faith where there 
is not a full perfwafion; for the hungry looking 
of 3 trembling Sinner untoChrift, muft not be 
excluded from being an a& of Faith; it is hard 
to reftrain the exercife of Repentance to the {he- 
ding of Tears, for many other Signs of Repen- 
tance may be found where thefe are feldom, 
fuch as is the hatred of Sin driving againft all 
Tentations unto it, and flying from all occafions 
which may enfnare the Believer in Chrift in Tref- 
pafles. Fifthly, Let the Affli&ed diftinguifh be- 
tween Faith and fenfe of Joy, both are God's 
Gifts, but the Grounds of Faith whereupon we 
are commanded to reft our felves ihould bere- 
fted on conftantly,whatfoever difpenfationof Joy 
or Grief we fhall meet with: And this is ourperpe- 
tua!Duty,but fenfe isatGod's freeFdifpenfation to 
give and withdraw and reftore at His pleafure, 
and is a movable Benefit, which, the Lord, as 

His 



BOOK II [ 4?i ] CHAP. XV. 

His Wifdom fecth expedient for our Good, doth 
give and continue, withdraw and reftore, dimi- 
nifh or augment. And therefore the Afflided 
is bound by duty (till to believe and rejoycein 
believing: And to have the joy of lenfe alio he 
may lawfully ftudy,but ought not to fufler His 
Faith to be weakened by the want of it, as the 
Prophet doth teach us, Pf. 42. 11. and 43. 5-, 
and, 88. Laftofall, let the Afflided be pofed 
upon his Confciencc if he dare condemn his 
tying to Chrift inths fenfe of his Sins as no 
ad: of Faith, or he if daredeny his hunger after 
renewed Confolation,and beholding of God with 
oy as reconciled in Chrift, to bean ad of Love 
:o God, and of Communion with Him ? There- 
fore let himconfefs with the Pfalmift F/77. 10: 
This my doubting is my infirmity, I will remember 
the years of the right hand of ike Lord. 

CHAP. XVI. 

Wherein is fohed the true Convert's Doubt of his, 
Regeneration f becaufe he feemeth to himfelf not to 
grow in Grace by the ufe of the Means appointed 
for his growth. 

SOme true Convert's are brought to fufped 
their own Regeneration, becaufe in the 
ufirig of the Means leading to Sandifica- 
ion and Salvation, fundry complain and lay, t 
io not perceive the Lord's Bleihng on my pains 
ind diligence; I grow not in the knowledge of 

F f TW U £* 



BOOK It { tfz ] CHAP, XVI, 

things Spiritual ; my Faith doth not grow by 
Hearing nor Reading of the Word of God, noi 
by Meditation of it; I dp not prevail in wrefr 
jing againft my in-brcd Sin and corrupt Nature, 
peither by Prayer nor Fading : and therefore, 
what fhall Ijudge of my ftate, but that it is 
like i am not converted and renewed ? For, if] 
were indeed, converted and reconciled with God. l f 
I conceive it fliould fair otherways with me than j 1 
|t dotb. 

%, In this Cafe the true Convert is in ha- 
zard of growing flack and carelefs in the ufe of 
phe Means, and to grieve the holy Spirit, by 
prefcribing unto him, and limiting of him, unco 
Bach a njeafure of proRur.g in the ufe of the 
.Means, £nd making him know how far he 
Iiad profited and advanced in thecourfe of San 
<THfication. Yea there is danger, left in this cafef d 
the Convert not only become cold-rife in the 
cxerciies of Piety, but alfo turn loofe in his Con- 
yedation, and follow the Allurements of the 
World, having fo far hearkned to the Tempta 
£iQn,asto think it in vain that he hath waflien his r 
Hands inlnnocency, as (f/73 v befelltheProphet. 

3 JFor removing of the Doubt,the Affii&ed hath^ 
reafon to check himfelf for hearkening fo far 
unto the Temptation, as to join with Hypocrite 
in his Complaint, Jfa. 5:8, 5. Wherefore have m 
fefied( fay they ) and Thou Jeefi not > where fort 
have we ajfliftedoitr Souls, and thou takefl no know 

But 



BOOK II. ( 4? 3 ) CHAP. XVI. 

But becaufe nothing doth more trouble the 
Afflicted than his fufpicion of his ownHypocrify, 
lettheCaufes be fearched from which his fu£- 
virion doth arife. One of them may be this, that 
in the utethe Means, the Eyes of the Afflicted 
ire more and more opened to perceive the Power 
md Poyfon of his natural Corruption more 
:learly than he perceived before. And this 
deciphering of Sin more & morc,doth under him 
o fee the growth of hisLight,& the growth of his 
j hatred againft manifeftedSin joined with the over- 
'urning of his own high Imaginations and native 
; 3 ride.AnotherCaufe may be this, that the trueCon 
r ert hachpromifed unto himfelf,in the ufe ofth® 
Jvleans, more and greater Benefits fpiritual from 
}od, than he doth by experience find,which be- 
aufehedoth not find, he thinketh he hath not 
rofited. A Third Caufe may be this, that 
le Lord is about the purging of him from 
radical Errors, fuch as are high eftimation of 
is own diligence in the ufe of the Means, as if 
lerc where iome fort of merit annexed unto the 
orks perfcribed to the Convert by the Lord, 
r as if the ufe of the Means had in them fome 
>rce and efficacy in producing fuch effects in 
im as the Convert hath expected .* or, as if the 
ord had obliged Himfelf to blefs, fenfibly, 
iligence in the ufe of the Means, to the diligent 
lan's fatisfadHon. 

4. Therefore, firft, let the Afflicted continue 

his diligence,and beware of rhe forefaid practi- 

F f % cal 



li 



BOO K II [ 454 ] CH A P. XIV. 

cal Errorsdet him humble hi rafelf before Ch rift, 
tha r He may draw more Vertue out of Him by 
Fa\ch, and by fomuch the more as he findeth 
Sin in himfelf, and not profiting in the ufe of the 
Means, let him lay the fafter hold on the Cove- 
nant of Grace, and on Chrift offered therein, for 
giving Ri^hc.oufnefs and San&ification. Second- 
ly, jet lujra let upon the exercife of every Duty 
with Prayer, that he may follow the Duty in 
Chrift's Name with his Eye fixed on God's Grace I 
and a c rthc difeharge of the Duty ,let him look 
to thrift, that from Him, he may have the Blef- 
iing; For, without Chrift we can do nothing 
acceptably, nor with profit. Lafl of all, let 
hi n not efteem lightly of the effe^s of his 
Diligence,as if he did no wayes profit; but when 
he hath rightly confidered matters, if he find 
tke leaft fruit following his ufing of the Means, | 
let him give the Glory of it to God in Chrift 
the Giver thereof, and humbly put Up his La- 
mentation for his fhortcoming, in Duties un- 
to God by Prayer : For, this is the way to 
make progrefs in Faith and Repentance; 
and Humility and Submiffion of his will un- 
to God in the u(e of the Means, and let him 
thank the Lord, that from day to day he is 
fceepod from fsandalous out- breaking. 



CHAP 






ao'OKir, [ vs 1 chap.xvd, 

CHAP. XVII. 

h Wherein isfolved the Convert's Doubt, whether he 
be Regenerate becaufehe feemeth to himfelf to fol- 
low Religion and Right eoufnejs, from the common 
operation of God's working by moral fwafion, and 
not from the fpecial operation and impuljion of the 
holy Spirit. 

THere are fbmetrue Converts, who have 
profited fofar in the amendment of their 
Life, and conforming their Converfation 
unto the Rule of God's Word, that rheyoke of 
Chrift is become eafy to them, and their dehghr 
is to be frequently about theExercifes ofRdigion 
and Works ofRighteouf: •■..'".., and yetfome-tioie 
they are troubled with fuipicion, whether the 
work of Regeneration in them be folid, becaufe 
any thing they do, may be done, as they conceive, 
by temporary Believers, in whom no found Re- 
novation of corrupt Nature will be found. I 
find nothing in me ( faith one ) of the effectual 
motion of the holy Spirit, but ail by way of 
Moral Swafton, by Imitation of others, by Edu- 
cation, as may be found in the unrenewed ,Dif- 
ciples of moral Philofophy: For as they by fre- 
Iquent actions do acquire Habits, wherewith be- 
ing indued, they djfeharge moral Duties more, 
eaiily. and with delight; fo 1 by difcharging A&s 
of Religion and acquainting my fclf with 
them daily,do feem to my felfto have acquired a 

Ff3 Fa- 



B OOK II. [ 456 ] CHAR XVII. 

Facility and Delegation in religious Actions and 
Works of Righteoufnefs toward my Neighbours 
2. This Cafe we grant is very perilous, and 
fubtilely coloured by Satan ta deceive and wea- 
ken the true Convert; for, it is true, what power 
hath been feen in moral Philofophy among Fa- 
gans< to put a lufter on Men's civilConverfation, 
muft be alfo granted to Theology among profef- 
fed Chriftians, becaufe Divine Threatcnings and 
Promifes, for procuring outward Reformation 
of a Man's Life, are more apt to prevail with a 
Man, than all moral Philofophy; and it is true 
alfo, that Education by Parents, and imitation 
of good Men, is of great force morally to per- 
fwade a Man to the following of the outward 
Duties of Religion, and to a civil Converfation. 
Wherefore it is no wonder to fee a true Convert 
doubt of his own Regeneration, when he com- 
pared! externalDutiesdifchargedby himfelf,witli 
the external Duties difcharged by others, whofc 
Heart he cannot fee,but muft judge charitably of 
them, and yet can neither be clear determinatly 
to affirm all fuch o be true Converts, nor to af- 
firm himfelfto be a true Convert, fo long as he 
fufped-eth, that as fome others Reformation, fo 
alfo his own Reformation, may prove no better 
than from moral Swafioli, which may be found 
in a Man unregenerat. 

3. For loafing of this Doubt and (trengthening of 
the Faith of the true Calvert, let him examine, 
himlelf whether in the Confcicnce of his natura- 

ral 



BOOK II [ 457 ] CHAP. XV2T. 

Sinfulnefs,and fenfe of his 6wn Unworthinefs and 
Inability to deliver himfelf from the power of 
Sin, Wrath, and Mifery, he hath fied, and from 
tine to time doth fly to Chrift according to the 
tenor of the Covenant of Grace, to be Juftificd 
Saridrified, and Saved by Him,anddoth follow 
:he Exercifes of Religion and Righteoofnefs in 
DbedienCe to the Commands of God. If hisCon- 
feisnee anfwer him, that fo he doth, then, Firff, 
let him look upon his doubting of his ftate, as 
thefjbtile Ten tation of Satan; and that he may 
be ftrpng againftthis Tentation, let him renetv~ 
the acknowledgement of his Sins and Slnfulnefs, 
cf his AVeaknefs and Unvvorthifjefs, and renew ai- 
fo his Content ro the Covenant of Grace in Jcfes 
Chrift, and his purpofe to obey the Corrmiand- 
mentspfGod iri the ftrcngthof Chrift:For,by this 
Means he ihali gain the e'mry unto his refuge 
where- from Satan was drawing him,by furnilhing 
;brs and weakening his Fa:rii.£faW/?,having 
Safet^'hisi Anchpf witftin the vail, and (cried his 
' Faith on Chrft Jefus, let [rim now mantain his 
former courfe, ib far as truth will fufrer, that 
his former courfe of Life, in following with 
delight the exercife of Religion and Righteoufc 
nefs, did proceed from the holy Spirit ; and let 
hiirr confider, that it is not a lufficicnt reafon 
to call in queffiori the infufed r Habits 6f 
faving Grace, bccapCe fupernatiirai haftifV, 
mfufed immediatlv ' bv the Spirit of Ghrift 

F tjt are 



BOOK II. [ 458 ] CHAP XVII 

arc entertained, augmented "and confirmed by 
frequent A#s and daily Exercife, no lefs than 
natural or moral habits are, which are acquir- 
ed by exercife : And this is clear from Scrip- 
lure, wherein are many Exhortations to put 
Faith,Love,Repentance,Pati encc,fi?c. in frequent 
exercife, that thefe gracious Habits may grew 
ftrong, as the Apoflle Teter doth fpeak % Epifl. 
i. chap. ver. 5.6. &c. Thirdly, let him put a dif- 
ference in judging of his own Converfation and 
the Converfation of others, of whofe Principles 
and Ends of outward godly carriage, he cannot 
judge, as he can do of his own : For, a Man in 
Nature unregenerat, or a temporary Believer, 
may make Profeflion,of true Religion, and out- 
wardly go on in ablamelefs Converfation, with 
this opinion, that by his Works he fliall pleafc 
God, and] procure Salvation to himfelf. But the 
trueConvert fliall be found a Renouncer of con- 
fidence in his own Works, a man fenfible of his 
own Si'hfulnefs and Im perfections, who hath fled 
andrefolveth flill to adhere toChriftfor Righte- 
oufnefs and Salvation through Him; theiiading 
whereof in any meafurc after examination, may 
folve the Converts dcubt:For,.a Man in Nature 
cannot fo hate Sin and follow Holinefs, as to 
renounce confidence in his Holinefs, and .fly 
unto Chriftfor Righteoufnefs. Fourthly, let the 
sffaded- Convert confider, that the Lord's.deal- 
g with His Children both by moral Motives, 
' gnd by effe&ual perfwafion unto the obedience 

of 



BOOK II. [ 459 } ] CHAP. XVIII. 
of Faith, may and doth very well concur and 
.agree together, neither is the fpecial Operation 
of the holy Spirit with any reafon to be fufpe- 
<5ted, becaufe he fweetly leadeth on His Child, 
by way of Coulifel, ("without the Child's obfer- 
vation of any notable Impulfe) making him to 
overcome flrpng Tentations unto Sin, whereun- 
to he is naturally inclined: For the more victo- 
rious Grace is over Corruption, the Efficacy of 
the Lord's Grace is the more confpicuous, , and 
that Obedience is moft pleafant to God, where- 
in corrupt Nature makcth moft oppofition. There- 
fore in this Cafe here prefuppofed, let him -ftand 
to the Defence of his Faith in Chrift, and go on 
cheerfully in the way of Righteou Cnefs againft 
Satan's Tentation, foliciting him to Doubting 
and Difcouragement ; which Counfel if he fol- 
low, he fhall find by experience, that he hath 
made ufe of the Shield of Faith, and gotten the 
Vi&ory, not without the fpecial Operation and 
Impulfe of the holy Spirit. 

■" 
CHAP. XVIII. 

Wherein isfolveJ the true Converts Doubt, whether 
he be Regenerate becaufe he. jinderh not Self-de- 
ny al in the weafure which ts re jurfite in Converts. 

SOmc true Converts are found, who having 
for a time injoyed Peace of Confidence, have 
called their Conversion in queftionby occafioti 

of 



book ir. [ 4 6o } char xvnr. 

°f Hearing or Reading fome Sermon of feme 
z ealous Preacher prefTwg the Marks of true and 
fincere Converfion, and making Self-denial and 
Loving of God for Himfelf, the main Marks of 
Converfion, and without circiimfped: and wife 
difference put by him betwixt legal Perfection 
and evangelical Sincerity, prefling Self-denial 
and the loving of God abftra&ly, further than 
any Saint doth attain unto in this Life.Whereu- 
pon fome tender Sods do fall in queftion with 
themfclves, whether they be among the true and 
fincere Converts, becaufe they know char bur 
Lord requireth Self-denial in every Perfon who 
will follow Him, and doth condemn them all 
for Unbelievers who feek Glory of Men,and not 
the Glory which is of God r And becaufe the 
Preacher poffibiy hath mads the Loving of God 
for His Benefits, to be too too mercenary, and 
hath preffed without refpedt tqBenefits/that Gqd 
mud be loved foe Himfelf, theref&rfc the vvda'fc 
Convert beginneth to be troubled, as if he were 
not a true Convert at all, faying, What fhall I 
think of my felf and of my following of Chrift, 
feing I feel fo little of Self-denial in me, feing I 
have loved Chrift' for my own good, and many a! 
time in my beft Actions 1 have Tought the 
Commendation of Men in my Heart, arid 1 have 
been ill pleafed when I did not obtain it> 

2. For folving of this Doubt, we grant that 
every Man vvh© will follow Chrift, is bound to 
deny himfelf: Andti^eitis, there is- nothing 

mere 



B O O K II. r ( 461 ) C H A E XVIII. 
more Difficile than to forfakeour own carnal Wit 
dom, aad eftimation of our own Worth, Works 
and Abilities, how fmall foever. Neither is there 
any more dangerous evil, than in the difcharge 
of Chriftkm Duties, to feek or accept our own 
Glory and the Applaufe of Men-.For he that iti 
this point doth fofter his natural corruption, 
certainly doth not in fo far favour thefe things 
which are God's, but ferveth his own Flelh. 
Therefore, becaufethe Reliquesofthis and all 
•therSin do remain in the Rcgelierat, the Lord 
by variety of Exercifes fetteth His Children 
daily to learn this leflon over and over for mor- 
tifying their corrupt Lufts.lt is their duty there- 
fore, when any Spark of this evil ofSelf-feek- 
ingdoth appear, to call: themfelves down humb- 
ly at Chrift's Feet and confefle the Sin, left fomc 
fpark of Wrath break forth upon them from 
the Lord. For,the end of this Exercile, yea,and 
the reafonof the Lord's not removing fully in- 
dwelling Sin, is to humble us, and fend us to 
Chrift,left if He fliould otherways deal with us, 
we fliould grow proud, and not make fuch ufe 
as becometh us of God's free Grace, and drift's 
Righteo'jfnefs imputed to rhe Believer ; meaa 
time we muft noc ycild to Satan's Tentatioa, 
coloured with pretenfe of Scripture, as if 
Chrift had difcharged us to (cek any good from 
Him to our felves, or to love Him for the 
good which He hath purchafed to us, and 
which He from time to time bcitoweth on us: 

for 



BOOK II. [462] CHAP,XVin 
For when Chrift requireth of us to deny our 
felves, He requireth indeed the reuonntiation of 
our own carnal and corrupt Lufts,and confidence 
in our own Wifdom, Worth and Works. But He 
doth not require of us to renounce the fan&ified 
love of our own well-being, or the feekingour 
San#ification,Confolation and Salvation in Him 
alone : For the love of God and of His Glory, 
is the main end of all ourDefires ; and the feed- 
ing that God would glorify His own Grace and 
Truth in His Promifes to us, by fandtifying, 
comforting and favingus, is a fubordinat Mean 
unto God's Glory ; yea, the more we leek our 
Righteoufhcfs, Confolation and Salvation in God 
through Chrift,. the mote we glorify God, and 
do fay in fubftance of God, that He is the Foun- 
tain of all Felicity, and that. He is good and 
faithful to grant all good Things to fuch as be- 
lieve in Him, and do feck Grace for Grace from 
Him. 

3»; It is true, that we fhould love God above 
all things, and love Him more than our felves, 
and dove Him though He (liould flay us; but 
it is.truealfo, that the more we love Him for 
any<Caufe,the more we efteemof Him,the more 
>Y£ magnify and glorify Him : And what is lore 
tp,and leeking of God, but the acknowledgment 
of our own emptinefs and HisAli-fufficiency? 
And what is our feeking Communion with Hinv 
bufca refounjding of our felves into the Fountain 
whence we have our Beeing,' that He may be. 



BOOK II. [463] CHAP. XIX. 

glorified in our Beeing, and fully Well-beihg ? 
And fo ouripiritual love of God forHimfelf/and 
for the Goodnefs which is let forth in doing 
good to us, is not mercenary Love, but is the 
acknowledgement of His Perfections, and of His 
Grace to us, to whom He will be our God in 
Chrift, even all in all to us in Him. As for 
feeking of Mens Applaufe whenfoever, whether 
upon receiving of any Benefit, ordilchargeof a- 
ny Duty, the corrupt luft of vain Glory doth 
mix it felf, (which cannot butobfeure and hinder 
the fliining of His Glory, which fliould be aim- 
ed at in all things by us) incontinent upon the 
firft motion of this our finful Corruption percei- 
ved, let our Sin be humbly acknowledged and 
confeffed unto God, the Searcher of the Heart, 
and let Supph cation in our Spirit be made unto 
Him, to pardon our Sin, and mortify the bitter 
Root of this and all other Evils in us. 

CHAP. XIX. 

Wherein is folved the Doubt of the true Convert, 
whether he he indeed Converted, arifing from this, 
that he kuoweth no Child of God fo hardly exer- 
cifed as he is. 

SOme Converts are, who by the Light of the 
Law of God, are brought to the acknow- 
ledgement of their Sin and Mifery, and by 
the Doctrine of the Gofpel are brought to feck 

their 



BOOK II t 4«4 ] CHAR- XIX. 

Relief inChrift,and have takenonHis Yoke and 
fubmitted themfelves to His DtfcipHne,&yet fall 
in queftion, whether they be Converted, becaufe 
they do find fuch inequality in their Converfa- 
tion, and fuch chahges in their Condition, and 
variety of Testations, as they can find no Ex- 
ample of the like in Scripture ; and where it 
pleafeth them to be free with their Paftor or con- 
fident Chriftian Friend, do fallout in queftions, 
if ever they have read in Scripture any like unto 
them,in fuch and fuch particulars as they pleafe to 
condefcend upofc; and if their Paftor or Chriftian 
Friend ihali givexhemfome Example in the Scrip- 
ture, of God's Children fo exercifed, they are 
ready to find fuch differences between the cafe 
of the Godly in Scripture, and their cafe,as they 
cannot receive fatisfa&ion. And if poffibly it 
be told them,that their Cafe is not fingular,but 
fuch as hath befallen fundry of their Chriftian 
Acquaintance in this prefent Age, yet they can- 
not receive fatisfa&ion for all this, but (till do 
infill, that their cafe is not like to any of the 
Godly. Whereupon they fofter the fufpicion of 
their not being Converted. 

z. This ground of judging of MensConver- 
fion by the manner ot God s exercifing of them, 
£9 as other converted Saints have been exercis- 
ed before them, and of judging she Man to be 
Unregenerat, who is otherways exercifed then 
chey know any Convert t# have teen exerciied, 
jdid deceive the Friends of Job, who in JoVs 

face 



BOOK II. [ 46s ] CHAP. XIX. 

face avowed this their error, Joh, 5. 1. Call now, 
(%y they, iff here he any that will anfwer thee, and 
*nto which of the Saints wilt thou turri> that is, name 
any Example of any upright Man who hath 
been dealt with by God as thou art > and what 
Saint or holy Man can thou name, to whom 
thou can compare thy felf and fay, luch a Man 
hath fuffered fuch things as I do? 

This Doubt doth ante from this Error and Mi- 
(lake ; the AffiicSred doth without ground fup- 
pofe, that exprefs Examples of every particular 
cafe of the Saints is (et down in Scripture. It is 
true, there are Examples,of many Cafes which 
may befal the Godly ; but it is not to be expected 
that we ihall find Examples of every particular 
Exercife of Mind, wherein the Saints may fall: 
For as theEvangelift faith, if all particulars were 
written, the World could not hold or make ufc 
thereof. It is fufficicnt that the Scripture hath 
fet down Rules, whereunto the Saints (hould la- 
feour to conform themfelves, and that it hath 
opened up the Caufes and Remedies of all fpi» 
ritual Difeafes, and hath given fo many Exam- 
ples as may clear the Rules. It is alfo a Miftakc 
to make the experience of the mod exercifed 
Souldier a Rule for every Saint's Exercifes, or 
to think that any Man can know the variety of 
Cafes which befal the Saints : For there are ma- 
ny whofe Cafes are not revealed to any, but laid 
open unto God only, by Prayer, and are helped 
fey Faith iaChrift. 

j. Where- 



BOOK M ' [ 4*4 ] CHAP. XIX 
j. Wherefore the Affli&ed mud walk by 
Rales fee dowii in Scripture, whether he find the 
Practices thereof m Scripture, or not. Now this 
is the Rule, that whacloever evil condition we 
fall into, whatsoever Tentation, wharfoever Pol- 
lution hath defiled cur Confciences, we muft 
humble ourie'ves before God,& fly unto Chrift 
for Remiiiion of theGui!tinefe,for waffling away 
the Filth inefe thereof, for breaking down the 
power of Corruption, and pulling out the Roots 
thcreo f; withal praifing and thanking ChrifLwho 
hach difcovered unto us thefe Evils, and hath 
madethem ourAffii&ien, and not differed them 
to break forth to the fcandal of others. And 
whatfoever Calamity or temporal Mifery we 
iliall fall into,the Scripture hath given order un- 
to- us, humbly to fubmit our felves to God's Dif- 
penfation, and to make a good conftru&ion of 
God's Love and Wifdcm in exercifing us fo: For 
by this Rule Job did walk, defending his Faith 
in Chrift, his living and loving Redeemer,againft 
Satan's Temptations, and his Friends unchari- 
table wrangling Difputations, when the queftion 
was about his ftate, whether hehad ever been 
Converted or not, Whether he was a wicked Hy- 
pocrite or not? and by fo over- came 
die Temptation whereof we are new i peaking. 
And let not the Afih&ed lay it for aground, 
that by his hearing of the Exercife of another, 
like unto his Condition, he can be curd ; be- 
caufe no example of the Exercife of another can 

be 



<T50OKII. I 467 ] CHAP.XXT. 

/ be found fo quadrant unto his Condition, as h c ' 
2 could thereby take Satisfadion. Forasincotrr 
s paring Mens Faces one with another (fuch is the 
2 incomprehenfiblc variety of the Riches of God's 
* Wifdom in framing them) (bme difference and 
: diffimilitude will be found betwixt Face and Face; 
fo in comparing of thcCafes of theSaints,none of 
them can be found m all things fo like one to 
another ,bu>fomefdifTimilitude fhall be found be- 
tween them. Wherefore the Affiided ihall do 
well, in every condition, to draw near God, aad 
pour out his Heart before Him at all times; 
For God is a Refuge for us in all Cafes. 
Ff 6zs 8. 

CHAR XX. 

Wlierein isfolvedthe Convert's Doubt, whether he 
be converted, becaufe he doth not find in himfelf 
the infallible Marks of Regeneration. 

SOME true Converts fbmetime arc in faC- 
penfe, doubting whether they be indeed 
Converted, becaufe they do not difcern 
in thcmfelves the unqueftionable Evidences of 
their Con verfion ; and albeit they have the un- 
doubted Marks of Regenerations witjrhe daily 
Convidion and Acknowledgement af their Sins, 
and do fly daily by Faith unto Jefus Chrift,and 
arc endeavouring in fome meafure gf Sincerity to 

G § fcring 



BOOKIi; [460] CHAP. XX \* 

bring forth the Fruits of new obedience, with] 
refped to all the Commandments concerning' 
Love to God,and the Brethren;yet they dare not 
defend the Sincerky of rhefc evidences, becaufe 
of thedcfcerned Imperfedrion thereof: For,when: 
they do compare thcfe Marks of the new Crea- 
ture with the Rule, they find much halting and 
iliort coming therein. In fpecia!, they find their 1 
Senie of Sin to be but weak, their Faith in 
Chriil to be weak, and their Failings and fhort- 
comings in the Love of God and their Neigh- 
bours, to be many : fo that they fcarcely dare 
allow thefe begun faving Graces, the name of 
faving Graces. And among other Defects, they 
reckon their not feeiiqg of the Spirit of Adoption, 
whereof the Apoftle fpeaketh to the converted 
Galatians, Gal, 4 6. Becaufe ye are Sons (faith he) 
God hath fent firth the Spirit of His Son into your 
Hearts y cryingAbba,Father Ax\<\Ephef\.'i\ln whom 
after you believed, yewerefealed with the holy Spi- 
rit of Promife. Which Spirit of Promife and of 
Adoption, fealing Believers, they conceived was 
Jcnown and defcerned in the Apoftles time by 
every Believers feeling in himfelf. 

%. For folving of this Doubt,(bmethingis fpo- 
&en before concerning the irriperfed: Fruits of 
Faith, the Buddings and Blofibming whereof are 
#ot defpifed by Chrift, Cant. %, 13. and, 6. 
11., But that this doubt may be more fully an- j 
fwered, let us take up the caufes thereof, 1. One.' 
Ca^ft is or may be this, tha.c the AfHi&ed, alJ 
- ~ """ bcc 






BOOK II. [469] CHAP. XX 

?4| beit, together with the endeavour to lead a 
blameleis life, he be endued with the Grace of 
"°t Praycr,and looketh on God as his father; yet he 
doth -not take up this work of God in him,to be 
the work of the Spirit of Chrift, illuminating 
his Mind about Duties, framing his Will and 
Afledtions unto new obedience,ftirring him up to 
'Prayer and helping him in Prayer, but in the 
earned defire hcahath to find the Operations of 
the Spirit in a larger meafureof evidence, he 
doth not mark the prefent Operation, but 
doth flight it as nothing, or doth not efteem of 
it as becometh, and fo in his Advertance raifeth 
and foftereth Doubts in himfelf, which do keep 
his Faith in Chains ; For removing of which 
Caufe let the Affli&ed obferve the Operation of 
the Spirit of Chrift in the meaneft degree, for 
the confirmation of his own Faith, and com- 
fort and Thankfgiving unto God, as narrowly 
as he doth obferve in himfelf the firft Motions 
of Sin and Stirrings of Corruption, for his 
own Humiliation and excrcife of Repentance ; 
for wrong Judgement under pretext of Humi- 
lity, doth not plcaie God. Now it is an ad: of 
Injufticc not to give unto God the praife of e- 
very good thing in a Man, efpecially when the 
Man is found to be caft down in himfelf, and 
be thirfting in his Soul for a more intimat com- 
munion withChrift,as is prefuppofed in this cafe 
3. The Second caufe is or may be this,thac the 
Afflicted, albeit he hath had oft-times fw^t 
G * and 



BOOK II. t47o] CHAP. XX, 

%n& fenfible Confolation, and Confirmation of 
the Promifesof the Gofpcl , and hath thereby 
bsca put out of doubt of his Adoption for the 
time, yet when new Tentations do arife (accor» 
ding to what was expedient for the exercife 
of His Faith) becaufe the fame fweetnefs is not 
felp bat hcavinefs for the while, 1 Pet.i. 6j. he 
forgetteth the Confoiationshe hath had, orfuf- 
fereth them to be called in quftiion. For remo- 
ving whereof whenfbever the Afflicted is cue 
fliort in the point of Senfc or fenfible Confola- 
tion, let him then ftrive to abound in the work 
of theLord,and notflaken.his hand intheexercife 
of Religion,and of his lawful Calling,and hisen- 
deavour to pleafe God in all things ; for, feeing 
the Covenant of Grace imbniceci, is a firm and 
folid ground for Faith to fix upon, albeit full 
Perfwafion and vi&oricus Confolation were nei- 
ther at all, or but very rarely felt in thisLife; 
the ArH.i&ed (whom we have to fpeak to here) 
hath no caufc to flumble, but reafon to blefs 
God, Who hath in any meafure or at any time, 
comforted him by the Gofpel •' For, that condi- 
tion which the Affli&ed wifheth for, is refer- 
red unto us in Heaven; and prefuppofe the Aft 
fitted fnould have what he wifheth, Confola* 
lions always running like a River, where were 
place for trying, exercifingand training of him 
in hi$ Faith ? but let him Work and Wreftle on, 
and among hands he fliall Have as much peace 
as may (alike- a Pilgrim. 

q. The 



bookh. [ 471 1 c;hap. »ij 

4. The Tbird Caufe is, or may be this, thai, 
the Affli&ed hath grieved the Spirit of God 
cither by atcribing His gracious Operations ro 
fomc other caufe than Grace, or counting this 
Confoltations to be but Flafhes, and like unto 
delufions; or that the Affli&cd by corrupt Com- 
inunicauon, or grofs Offences, hath provoked 
God to anger, as befell David Pfal. 51. For re- 
moving of this Caufe, whether the Sin of the 
Affli&sd hath been more or lefs provoking; iec 
him with Dav:J( Pf. $1. ) renew the excrcife of 
Repentance and Faith in God's Mercy, who only 
can renew a right Spirit in him, or rather reftors. 
him to the formerly- felt Confoiation and Joy of 
his Spirit,& let him walk more warily hereafter, 
that he provoke not toWrath fo merciful a Father. 
5. The Fourth Caufe is, or may bethis,thafc 
the AlHided, albeit he liatK consented to the 
•Covenant of grace, and hath embraced Chrift 
jefus offered in the Evangcl.-yethc dothjnot fet to 
jHisSeal to the Truth of God without an hink, 
or fear and fufpicion of his right to apply the 
Grace offered; in wkichCafe fo long as he doubts*, 
and dothjnot reft his fiaful Soul on the Word 
of God, offering Grace to every Soul fenfible 
of Sin, who lhall fly to JeVus Chrid, what wonde.c 
the holy Spirit doth with-hold the icaling of tha 
Man's Faith.-For thisisGodV order holden fott.lT; 
Bphef.i. 1 j.that a Sinner ihould firft fix bis Faitlv 
onChritt offered in theGofpe!,& after he hath be* 
lieveu(not before he do believe) vvait for the fe^U 
iag of the; holy^Spirit. j*r 



BOOKIL [47*1 CHAP. XX, 

For removing this Caufe, r. Let the Affli&ed 
acknowledge that his Hefitation, Doubting and 
Sufpicion, isjuftly chaftifed of God, becaufehc 
hath not firmly -adhered to the Covenant embra- 
ced by him, and becaufe he hath not given unto 
God the Glory of His Truth with out a Pawn, 
and yet doth in effecft quarrel and complain, that 
he doth not find thefe Confolations which are 
given, and but rarely, it may be even 
to the found and ftrongin the Faith. ^. Lee 
him for the Confirmation of his Faith, hereafter 
confider well, how ftrong and folid a Founda- 
tion Faithjhath to lean unto,evenGod's Promife & 
Oath given unto all that do fly toChrift for Re- 
fuge and % Relief from Sin and Mifery, Heh. 6. 
17. 18. that the Afflided may with the Tjalmijl I 
Tf. 56. 10. fing, in God I will praife His WordA 
3. Let the Afflidted ftudy to be fo fail glewed | 
unto Chrift in every condition and cafe he fin- 
deth himfelf, and go about the exercife of Re- 
pentance of Faith and new Obedience in his 
Calling, fubmitting himfelf to the Will of God 
m every Difpenfarion : which direction if he 
fnall aim to follow, he (hall not want the fruic 
of his Faith, and hoped endeavour to pleafe 
God : For, PJaL 97. 1 r. Light is fovon for the 
Mhhtuus, f.nd Joy for the upright in Heart. 

CHAR 



BOOK II. r 473 1 CHAP. XXt 

CHAP. XXI. 

Wherein is fohed the Doubt of the true Convert 
whether he be indeed converter! Lecaufe he can no- 
confidently apply to himfelf the Promifes ofth$ 
Gofpel. 



THcre are fome true Converts, who albeic 
for fear of the Wrath of God for their Sins, 
ar^ already fled unto Chrift,and have hid them- 
felves under the Wings of the Propitiatory, in the 
fliadow of the Almighty Mediator, and are al* 
ready begun in earncft to give new obedience to 
the Law of God; yet from time ro time they 
fall in fear and trembling Sufpicion, that all be 
not a found work of Grace ih them ; and that 
partly becaufe they cannot confidently apply to 
themfelves the Promifes of the Gofpel, whether 
Abfolute,fuch as are made to the Eled:, Jer, 31. 
31. or Conditional, .fuch as are made to Belie- 
vers in Chrift offered in the Gofpel ; or qualified 
Promifes, fueh as are made to the Meek and 
Merciful, Mat, 5. which qualified promifes they 
look upon asConditional, excluding them(as they 
conceive) who do not find in themfelves fueh 
Qualifications: and partly becaufe they are not 
clear about their right to receive the Offer of 
the Gofpel, becaufe they want, as they conceive 
fitnefs in themfelves to receive the farne.and thus 
are they oft-times vexed with doubts whether 
be they in the Hare oi Grace of not, 

8. Fo« 



BOOK II. [ 474 1 CHAP. XXf. 

2. For loufing of this Doubt, fundry things 
are already faid, by the way, in anfwering other 
doubtful Cafes. But becaufe many do meet 
with this difficulty, we fhall fpeak a little more 
particularly to. the Cafe; and, Firft, it is needful, 
that the Afflrded be confirmed about that which 
is right in him, that the thing which remaineth 
and is ready to die, may be ftrengthned J To 
this intent we commend the Affli&ed, that be- 
ing fenfible of Sin, and feared for- wrath, he hath 
fled unto Chrift for Refuge; Next we commend 
him that he hath begun to give new obedience 
to God's Law, and doth purpofe to follow on 
as he fhall be enabled : And thirdly, we com- 
mend him, that albeit he cannot attain that near 
conjunction with Chrift, which he would, yet 
he neither w T ill, nor dare for fake Chrift, nor put 
himfelf out of the number of weak Believersin 
Chrift; for he hath faid in his Heart with Peter, 
John. 6. 68- To whom jball Igo> for Chrift bat!} 
the words of eternal Life. Hitherto all is right, and 
the afflicted muft refolve to cleave clofs to this 
Foundation, becaufe Chrift hath faid, Job. 6. 37. 
Thefe that come unto Me I will in no cafe call out; 

3 For his Doubt arifing from the nature of the 
Promifes Abfolute, Conditional and Qualified, 
looked upon by him as if they were Conditional, 
we Anfwer. 1. That thefe Qualified promifes, 
having fome mark in them of true believers, 
are not exclufive of thefe Believers who 






BOOK II. [ 475 1 CHAP. s X50t 

find inthemfclves a defect of the Qualification,, 
but they are indu&ivc unto all Belicrers, to 
ftudy the attaining of that Qualifiation, and arc 
corroborative of thefe Believers who find in any 
fenfible mcafure thefeQualificatioras: For example, 
Promifes made to the Merciful, to the Peace- 
makers, to the Upright in Heart, do not exclude 
thefe who find themfelves fhort in thefe Graces, 
and yet are hungry and thirfty for Righteoufhefs; 
yet are poor and indigent of all Good in them- 
felves, and daily Beggersat the Throne of Grace 
for what they want, Mat. 5. for, thefe Qualifi- 
cations found in a weak Believer are Signs and 
E3e#s of (bund Faith in them. And we muffc 
grant, that of thefe Graces, fpecified in thefe. 
qualified Promifes, fome of them are more emi- 
nent in fome of the Saints, and other fome of 
them are more eminently fcen and felt in other. 
fome of the Saints. And in the fame Perfbn,one 
of thefeQualifications mayfometimefhine more 
dearly, and at another time by fome Tenta- 
tion, or miftake, be over-clouded, and not fliine 
fo clearly as before ; yet the Qualifications are 
comfortable to all them who find the fame in 
themfelves, and are inductive to make every 
Believer to aim to excel in thefe Graces, and fo 
to confirme their own Faith mors and more, as 
( z Pet, 1. 4, 5, 6, 7. ) we are exhorted. Again, 
thefe Qualifications are figns of a Believer al- 
ready entered in the Covenant of Grace by Faith 
'.tftfiktiik & n 4 begiw to bring forth good Fruits, 

b 



BOOK II. [ 476 ] CHAP. XXI. 

but they are not the Conditions of entering into 
the Covenant; for then none could enter in Co- 
venant till firft thefe Qualifications in exercife 
were found in them, and that were to dif-annul 
the Covenant of Grace, and to fet up a fort of 
Covenant of Works; for there is not another con- 
dition of entering in the Covenant, but Faith in 
Chrift only, whereby the humbled Sinner, re- 
nouncing all confidence in any good in himfelf, 
or from himfelf, doth betake himfelf wholly to 
the Grace offered in Jefus Chrift, in Whom per- 
fect Righteoufnefs is to be found.Now unto the 
Man who fhall believe in Chrift, allthePromif- 
es of the Gofpel are made upon this Condition, 
that he do believe in Jefus Chrift; which condi- 
tion of Faith in Chrift, when it is now perform* 
ed, and by the Grace of God, the Man made a 
Believer in Chrift, then the abfolute Promifes 
of making a new Heart, and of writing the 
Law of the Lord therein, ( Jer. 31-31. and Ezek. 
11. 19 ) and all the Promifes of faving Graces 
fet down in Holy Scripture, do all of them be- 
long to the Believer in Chrift, in Whom all the 
Promifes are Tea and Amends if His Name were 
fet down. 

4. As to hisDoub^arifing from his weak and in- 
firm Application of the Promifes, let the Affli<3> 
ed confider what God hath already wrought,and 
is a working in him by way of Application: For, 
Fir (i, God hath granted to him the ufe of the 
Means with others in the vifible Kirk; fo that it 

may 



BOOK, II. r 477 1 CHAP. XXV 

be faid unto him in this refpe&asit is,Efo 5. 4. 
what could>be!done in outward means &Otfermak 
ing of Grace which is notdonc?S<rcW/y,God hath 
drawn more nearuntohim.and hath illuminat his 
Mindabou this finfu 1ft ate in Nature, & about the 
way of delivery by Faith in Chri£,and yet more 
hath Inclined his Heart to accept of the offer of 
Chrift and make Anfwer to the call,as£>aWdid: 
When Thou fatdeft, fee k My Face .my Soul anfwer ed, 
Thy Face Lord mil I feet Pfal.xj.g.Thus God 
hath applyedChrift & thePromifes of the Gofpel 
to the Afflicted, and hath made the Affii&ed to 
fly unto Chrift offered in the Gofpel, and to ap- 
ply him unto himfelf, that hitherto the Affli- 
cted hath no reafon to complain of not applica- 
tion cf Chrift and His Promifes, 011 God's parr, 
not yet of begun-application on the affli&ed's 
part. Where is the in-lake then > I Anfwer, the 
Defed is, firft,in the Afflid;ed,who hath not due- 
ly confidered the PafTages of Gods gracious ap- 
proaching to him, and drawing of the Man to. 
Himfelf in Chrift; another Defedt is, that the Af- 
fli&ed upon groundlefs Miftakes, doth not lay 
claim toChrift,and to all the Promifes ofGracefot 
Righteoufiiefs and Salvation in Him,and that be- 
caufe he is not fo clear of his Right unto, and 
Intereft in, Chrift, as he can lay ciaim confident- 
ly unto the fame. 

5*. For clearing of the Affli&ed in this his 
Right and Warrant, confidently to apply Chrift 

and 



BOOK, II. [ 478 } CHAk XXL 

and all the Promifcs of the Gofpel, let him 
confider, Firfl, the dreadful Sentence of the 
Curfe and Condemaation of all them that do 
not believe on Chrift John, 3. 18. Hethatbeli- 
wth on Christ, i* not condemned ; but he that be- 
lieveth not u condemned already, becaufe he hath 
mt believed in the only begotten Son of God. Se- 
condly, let him confider the largenefs of the Go- 
fpel, wherein Grace is offered to all and every 
Believer, Job. 3. 16, God fo loved the World; 
that He gave His only begotten Son, that vohojoe- 
wer believeth in Him jhouldnot penfb, but havee- 
<verlafting Life. He feith vobofoever, without 
exception, left any Man who defireth to be- 
lieve inChriftjfhould doubt that hefhall be recei- 
ved and made wele*me<7&ir;//y,let him meditate 
upon the wonderfulMyftery of thelncarnation of 
the Son of God, Who, that he might ranfom 
and Redeem His People from Sin and Mifery, 
hath aflumed humane Nature into the union 
of Perfbn with His Divine Nature, and gi- 
ven a perpetual Pawn, and Pledge of his Hear- 
ty willingnefs to reconcileJuftify,San(9;ify, and 
fave to tke uttermoft every one who fhall come 
unto God through Him : whereunto His media- 
tory Office, and cloathing Himfelf with mod 
fweet Relations of Prophet, Preift and King 
to all His followers , doth bear abundant wit* 
nefs. Fourthly, let him hearken to the quicken* 
ingand comfortable invitations which by his 
Spirit, fpeaking in Scripture,he uttererh in the 



BttOKH. [479] CHAP. XXU 
Ears of all to whom the Gofpel cometh with a 
joyful found; Ho every one that thrifteth Ifa.j^.r. 
to 1 o. Come unto me all ye that labour and are 
heavy loaden,Math n.zZWe are Embaffadors for 
Chrift, as though God did befeech you by us, we pray 
yon in Ch rifts (lead be ye reeonciled to Gsd, z Cor. 
5. 20. Andwhofcevtr will, let him take the water 
of Life freely. Rev. 2,2. 17. Fifthly, Let the 
Afflicted confider what Anfwer he will give ttf 
the cxprefs command of God, 1 Job, y z$,This 
is His Commandment, that we Jhould believe in the 
Name of his Son Je fits Chrift, and' love one another 
as He hath commanded us$o? this Commandment 
being directed to all the Hearers ofthcGo{pel f 
chargeth every one without Cxceptieii.Fir^ i to ex- 
amine ferioufly their Life by t. Ic of God's 
Law, that thereby they may be convinced of their 
damnable ftatein Nature,& madeto acknowledge 
their Sin and Mifery & inability to help them- 
fclves..SVcW/y,having examined & acknowledged 
their natural loft Conditionally arc commanded 
to fly tojefus Chrift, thatbyFaithin Him they 
may be delivered. 3/y. that having tied toChrift, 
theylhpuld evidence theirFaith byLove toChrift, 
or God iji Chrift, and their Ncighbour^efpecially 
fuch as are of the houPhoId of FaithJn whichCom- 
mandment,boi:hthe order of applying Law and 
Gofpel is fet dcwn,and the neceffityof Believing 
in Chrift, upon the Warrant of this clear Com- 
?nand;fo that whofocvoris a Hearer of theGofpcJ, 
gti4 doth tiot in this ord$? fly unto Chrift 

he 



BOOK II. I 480 ] CHAR XXf 

he is inexcufable, even the Wicked and worft o^ 
Men. And much lefs excufable is the affli&ed 
Convert of whom we are now fpeaking, who al- 
ready hath acknowledged his loft Condition 
without Chrift, and knovveth that there is no 
hope of Relief, except by Faith in Jefus, and 
hath fled to Chrift, and dare not depart fromHim, 
if this Man fliall ftand here, and not rely on 
Chrift, and reft his Soul upon Him Confidently, 
what excufe can he make > If he do objed, than 
his Name is not written in this Command, ijoh. 
3,23. it hath no force to impede his Faith; for 
neither is his Name written in any of the Ten 
Commands of the Moral Law, and yet he findeth 
himfelf. tyed to the obedience of every one of 
them; and why is he not tyed alfb to this fvveet 
Command of the Gofpel of Grace, as well as to 
other Commands ? this Command being given 
forth as the laft Declaration of God's Will, for 
relief of them who acknowledge that they by the 
Law are condemned? wherefore let not the af- 
fii&ed any more pretend the difficulty of apply- 
ing Chrift and His Graces offered in the Gofpel, 
ieingitis prefuppofed he hath fled to Chrift,and 
dare neither depart from Him, nor for the pre- 
tended fcruple draw confidently in unto Him; 
but let him check and chide himfelf for not haunt- 
ing Chrift, and converfing with Him in Heaven, 
in that humility and confidence which the word 
of the Lord doth allow unto him, and command- 
cth him to wkc up aad hold faft, 

CHAP. 



BOOK II. T 481 ] CHAP. XXI I# 

CHAR XXII. 

Wherein is folved the douhtof the true convert con* 
cerning his converfion y arijing from the ohfervati- 
on in himfeif of prefumption and fecurity in his 
profperity,and of his misbelief in advcrjity. 

THere are fome true Converts, who albeit 
they are neither Idle nor Unfruitful in the 
work of the Lord, and in acknowledging of 
Chrift, yet are frequently called in queftion 
about their ftate in Grace ; for when their Con- 
fidence is quiet, they fall in fufpicion that their 
Faith is but Prefumption, and when through 
Tentation in Adverfity they are put to WrefUing* 
their fufpicion is, that then felt weakncfe of 
Faith in wreftling is but Misbelief. And when 
the frequent perturbations of their mind, do make 
them indifpofed for any exercife of Religion, a 
fufpicion is raifed, that the Faith which they 
fecmed to have, is but dead, becaufe when there 
is moft need of bringing forth Fruits they are al- 
together unfit and untfble to bring forth any Fruits. 
What (hall I think of my Eftate, faith the Af- 
fli&ed, who when an Enemy doth not appear 
am fecure, and when I mud enter the Combat 
with theAdverfary, I Faint, and oft times when 
1 am called to the exercife of Religion, I am con* 
founded, / am ftupid and impotent to difcharge 
any duty therein ? 

2. That this doubt maybe (blved, the three 
caufes of his doubting mull be removed. As to 

the 



BOOK It [ 4 8x ] CHAP. xxir. 

he hrft, which is the fufpicion, that his Faith 
*s Prefumption, we do not deny that carnal Con- 
fidence in Profperity ufeth to aflume to it felf 
the Name of true Faith, and that even true Con- 
verts, do fometime deceive themfelves concern- 
ing the meafure of their Faith,both on the right 
hand and on the left, by judging Faith not 
queftioned, to be ftrong Faith, and Faith in 
wraftling to be weak or none at all. We grant 
alfo, that fome mixture of Prefumption will be 
found joyned with true Faith, and of Misbelief 
alio. Which Evils do lurk and hide their power, 
till the Man be put to fome tryal. Wherefore 
the Afflicted hath need of Discretion; that he 
may have a Right eftecm both of the Operation 
of the Holy Spirit, and of the Power of Native 
Corruption in himfelf ; For Faith muft not be 
condemned for the Imperfections of it, or for the 
mixture of Prefumption and Misbelief with it. 
And to help his Judgment, let him obferve the 
nature of prevalent prefumption, and the nature 
of true Faith, which differ one from another in 
thefe four refpedts, Firft, Prefumption is found- 
ed upon a falfe Imagination without any warrant 
of Gods Word; but Faith taketh heed to the 
Scripture, that from the Word it may give a rea- i 
fon of Believing, l. Prefumption is negligent and 
Idle in th« difcharge of Duties, but Faith taketh j 
head to the Commands of God, and is diligenc j 
and ferious in the ufe of the Means. 3. Thepre- 
fymptuous Maadodtnot make cjueftion of hi$ i 

Eftate i 



BOOK II- [ 4*3 ] CHAP. XXH. 

Eftate, but blefleth himfelf, when his way is to 
be hated, for he doth not examine himfelf, that 
he may know certainly in what condition he is B 
but he that puts his Faith in exercife,doth care* 
fully examine his carriage and condition, left he 
deceive himfelf. 4. The prefumptuous Man in 
all his Ways and A&ions is weil pleafed with 
himfelf, butthe Believer, becsufe of the finful- 
nefs he findcth in all his A£tions,is ill pleafed with 
himfelf in his bed A&ions many times, and re* 
nounccth all confidence in his Works, that he 
may wholly depend on the Grace of God. 

3. Let the Affii&ed therefore who (b doth 
look to the Gpfpel, as be alfb maketh ufe of 
the Law, both in Profpcrity and Adverfity, ma- 
keth Confdcnce of theExercife of Religion and 
Duties of his Calling in foma meafure, and is 
never fo well pleafed with himfeif, but he ob- 
ferveth the power of Corruption in himfelf, let 
him (I fay) not reckon himfeif among the Pre- 
fumptuous, let him not efteem his quietnefs iti 
believing to be preemption. 

4. As for his fufpieioivthat his Faith is null, 
becaufe it pro^eth weak in co»fli<5fc,let the Af- 
fli&ed beware left he help and ftrengthen Satan's 
f entations againft his Faith, albeit he find his 
Faith weak iaTryotls & affoults,and notanfvVera- 
ble cither to his own Hope or others expecta- 
tion of him; yet fee him not quench the fmoik- 
ing Flax, not. break the bruifcd reed, but lee 
kirn follow Chrift, humbling himfeif before God 

H h fc c . 



BOOK If. { 484 ] CHAP. XXII, 

caufe of hisDefe&s, and going about to (leng- 
then that which is remaining, z. Aibeit in 
fome fit of Tentation he flide,as Peter did, and 
find that he hath prefumed too much of his 
own ftrength and honeft purpofe as Peter alfo 
did, yet let him not think that his Faith is 
null, but let him weep with Peter, and turn 
again by Repentance.and watch better over his 
own Heart for time to come. 

5. As for the Sufpicion he hath, that his 
Faith is dead or idle, becaufe when Fruits are 
chiefly called for, he finds himfelf uterly indif- 
pofed, unfit and unable to difcharge any work 
of Religion, as cometh to pats in the time of 
Paffions, Pertrubations of Mind, and pollution 
of the Confcience . For clearing whereof, we 
do acknowledge, that Wrath and Contention do 
hinder Prayer and other Exercifes of Religion, 
ss the Apoftle doth infinuat, 1 Pet. 3. 7. where 
he commandeth Husbands to carry themfelves 
difcreetiy towards their Wives, left their Pra- 
yers in the Family or in fecret be hindred ; and, 
1 Tim. z. 8. the Apoftle commandeth Men ta 
p ay every where, lifting up pure Hands with- 
out Wrath or Doubting. Weacknowledge alfo, 
that not only Wrath, or any other Paffion or 
Action which defileth the Confcience, are able 
to hinder theExercife of Religion, and difcharge 
efChriilian Duties at a time, but alfo it is found 
by experience, that any Preturbation of Mind 
aibeit it do not defile or concern the Confci- 

ence£ 



BOOKIL ( 485 ) CHAP. XXII. 
cnce, may in fome pare hinder the difchaarge 
of a religious Exercife, as may be feen when 
&ny perfon is furprifed with the report of fome 
notable Damnage, or is poflibly wounded by 
fome Accident, or terrified by the fight of im- 
minent Danger ; yet for all this, none of thefe 
I things can proye Faith to be dead, but dotl> 
I Ihevv the infirmity of a Man's Mind, the ufe of 
! whofe Reafon may be hindered for a time by 
j Perturbations and fudden Paffions; and at flij? 
mod, the Prefuppofed Cafes may prove c 
weaknefs of Faith, and the Interruption of it in. 
the putting forth it (elf vigoroufly for the time, 
but cannot prove the deadnefs or Nulity of Faith, 
which after fuchPafiions are pail, dcthfec fore* 
Ward to bring forth Fruits m better meafure : 
wherefore let not the AlHi&ed halt in his way. 
for fuch Testations, but let him make ftraight 
ftcps to himfelf,lcft that which is halting be tut 
Add out of the way;let him reje<5t thefe firy Darts 
& Testations tending to weaken his Confidence, 
let him humble himfclf in the fenfe of inherent 
Corruption, and vvalli frequently his Gonfcience 
at the Fountain which is opened in the Houfe 
of David for purging away £in and uncleannefs 
let him carry himfelt the more Circumfpeclly 
in all things, becaufc of his frequent experience, 
of Satan's Malice, of the power of Sin, and of 
his own Infirmities 



* 



Hhi rGH.VP 



BOOK. II. I 486 ] CHAP. XXIIL 

CHAP. XXIIL 

Wherein i$>fched the Doubt of a true Converts Re- 
generation, arifing from fome falfe Rule apply ed 
without reajon tohimfelf 

SOmetrueConverts Judging theirflate by fome 
falfe Rule, do not only torment themfelves* 
but allbff fo far as in them lycth) by pronounc- 
ing falfe Sentences of their own ftate, go about 
to exdnguifh the Spunk of Piety which is in them. 
The falfe Rule whereby they do judge them- 
felves, is ftrengtbnei by agroundlelsPerfwafion, 
that it is a true and fureRule, and ordinarily when 
they think orfpeak of it, they prefix no Reafon 
for it, but fome confident Afleveration, fuch as 
without doubt, it is mofl certain, and I am per/wade J 
of it, and fuch like, lfl were Regenerate and 
truely Converted, without doubt, I ihould be in 
a better difpofition than / am, I fhould love the 
Lord more fervently, 1 fhould underftand the 
Myfteries ofGod's Word more clearly, 1 fhould 
noebe fo little affe&ed with the fenfe ofGod'sBe- 
nefits beftowed on me, / lllould not go fo light- 
ly under the Conviction of fo many Sins againft 
God as / feel in me, / fhould be more diligent 
in the Work of theLord,in my Calling/ fhould 
\va!k more humbly and circumfpe&ly in all 
my Converfation,and fuch like manyExpreflions. 
The fame Courfe doth the Affli&cd follow in his 
Examination of the Operations of the holy 

£pi- 



B O O K 11. [ 487 I CHAR XX111. 
Spirit and of every Chriftian Vertue in himfelf* 
without doubt,faith he, if this were truly as a 
Chriftian Vertue in me,therc would not befuch 

i a difpofition as 1 find inme,my condition fliould 
be fuch and fuch as became a new Creature, 
which becaufe 1 do not find in me, 1 have 

ie juftreafon to call in queftion my Converfion. 

^ And here is a port opened for Satan to enter at 

> and to throw all his fiery Darts at the miferable 
Soul of the weak Convert; whence many Com- 
plaints do brake forth, and Thankfgiving for 
Mercies received and for the time enjoyed, is 



y broken off and ceafeth; And partly through 
1 diffidencc,partly through murmuring, the Spirit 
aj of the Lord is provoked to Wrath. 

z. We grant that this is a dangerous Evil not 
I only to the Perfonafflided, but alfo to fuch as 
J are familiarly acquainted with his Condition, 
1 becaufe this Difeafe readily doth infeft others, 

* as it came to pafs in the Gamp of Ifracl, where 

• the Murmuring of fome, fet the Body of the 
Army on a Mutiny againft God : For, one that 
Is weak in the Faith, when he heareth fuch 
Complaints in the Mouth of one whom he 
judgeth to be holier then himfelf, incontinent 

t he falleth on complaining of his own ftate, 
j faying that he hath more weighty reafon to 
[ fufpedtthc foundnefs of his Converfion, than 
the perfon hath whom he hath heard fufpe&ing 
5 bis being in the ftate of Grace, 

H h 3 3< Where- 



feOOKII [ 4 8S ] CHARXXIir. 
3. Wherefore let the Affli&ed before he (hall 
vent his fufpicion of his State,examine the Rule 
whereby he hath parted Sentence on himfelf, 
whether he can make it ggod from the Scrip- 
ture : For it is not fufficientto fay, without doubt 
and I am pcrfwaded it is true, except it can be 
confirmed by the infallible Warrand of God's 
Word: and let his Friend who (hall hear his 
Complaint , exprefly require a Reafon of his 
Confidence, that fuch a rule is clear from Scrip- 
ture, and that the Application thereof is made 
righteoufly. Which if he cannot prove other- 
ways than Satan doth enforce his Tentations, 
that is either without Scripture, or. by abufing 
Scripture contrary to the intent thereof, let him 
acknowledge his rcadinefs coMisbelieve andDif- 
obey the Word of the Lord, and to hearken to 
Satans Tentatiops to the weakening ofhisowq 
Faith and hindering of his cheerful obedience 
to the Lord's Commands : And becaufe fuch 
queftion-making ofbeing in the fete of Grace, 
is ofttimes very incot^deratly uttered, even* 
before them who do not allow the Complainers 
Mifconflruftipn of his ftate,or if they fliould al- 
low it, and fay to the Compfainer,that they be- 
lieved that fufpicion of his (late were very jud, 
it fliould grieve the Compiainer mcr.> than the 
doubt it (cif'Thcreforc let the Afili&qd neither 
hearken to the fufpicion, nor xenz it when it is 
ftrongly fuggefted ; but let him humble him- 
fci-f before ChriiV bejaiife of thefe Defects and 
" " Wants 






BOO K II [ 489 ] CHAP. XXIV: 

Wants officii Evidences of faving Grace as he 
would have ; and in the fenfe of thefe wants let 
himclcave clofsto Chriftfor covering his naked^ 
nefs, and carncftly endeavour by Faith inChrift 
co be made more and more conform to the ex- 
amplar of Holinefs holder* forth in the Scripture, 

CHAP. XXIV, 

Wherein is fohed tie Convert's Doiiht of his cwn 
Converfion, lecauje he hath found the Deceit fulnefs 
of his own Heart > and dare not trujlit any mote, 

SOme fincere Converts, who uprightly do 
fcrve Chrift, and adhere unto Him by Faith, 
when they confider the Dodlrine of the Dcceit- 
fulnefs of the Heart of Man, and how many 
are deceived by milling to the Tcftimony of 
their own Heart, concerning their Regeneration 
and Ju(lification,do begin to call in queftion all 
the work of their own Converfion, and do fear 
left they be found in the number of the finer 
fort of Hypocrites,who deceive both themfelvcs 
and others, having nothing in them but a Civil 
Life and Form of Religion, without the power 
of Godlinefs, and do fleep to Death in Securi- 
ty. Of which fort our Lord Jefus forewarneth, 
that not only private PerfonS, but alio many 
Preachers fhall be found, Mat. 7. zz. of whom 
we may fuppone, that they were not con- 
fcious of open and grofs WickedneCs, but 
Were of a blamelefs Carriage before the 
Hb4 WorU 



BO O K. 11 [ 490 ] CHAP. XXIV 
World, profeffing theChriftian Faith, and teach- 
ing others to believe in Chrift, and doubted 
nothing but Chrift Ihould judge of them as re- 
al! Saints ; to whom for all that, Chrift fliali 
one day fay, depart from Me ye Workers of Ini- 
quity, I never hew you. It is certain that fuch 
Men have been deceived by their own Heart : 
which when the Afflided doth confider, he 
ftandeth aftoniflied and trembleth for Fear, fay- 
ing with himfelf, what ihall 1 think of my for- 
mer Opinion of my blefled ftate, 1 ft;ar my 
Heart hath deceived me, as others of greater 
Gifts and better Life, have been deceived by 
ehcir own Heart. 

z. This is a Doubt which hath need to be 
folved ; but neither this nor any other Doubt 
can be (blidly and efle&uaily folved by any 
M^an, except the Holy Spirit give a 31e(Iing to 
the Means .• For, it is terrain, that there are 
many, who being religioufly Educat and free 
from grofs Vices, do not repent of their Sins, 
are not touched with the fenfe of their original 
Sin and corrupt Lulls, but without taking any 
burden on their Confciences for.thelc, dopaf$ 
by their time, well pleated with their owneftate. 
Some alio there are, who having fallen in gro(s 
£nd fcandglous Sins, do find for fome time re- 
mcrfe of Confcience for thefe gcofs Sins, but for 
fcheir odier Sins befide thofe, and for their in- 
born Corruptions, are not careful, thinking it 
foiSdenc if .cbczcafter they do not fail in fuch 

grofs 



BOOK. II. ( 491 ) CHAP. XXIV- 

grofs Faults; The Firft fort of Men, do deceive 
themfelves, thinking they have little to repent 
of,in regard they are free of grofs Outbreaking*. 
This laft fort deceive themfelves aifo, becaufe 
they efteem their natural Sorrow for fuch Sins 
as are grofs and Scandalous, to be true Repen- 
tance, albeit they be not humbled for the Foun- 
tain ofthefe Out-breakings 5 to wit,thcir In- Bant 
Corruption of Nature and filthy Concupifcence, 
and the daily Oat-breakings thereof, to the pol- 
luting of their Spirits, whereof they do rake 
little or no notice. Many alfo there are who de- 
ceive thcrnfelves,efteeming thq outward exercifes 
of Religion, and fome works ( in themfelves 
commendable) to be fuffieient Fruits and Evi- 
dences of rheir Faith in Chrift, and of their Re- 
generation, albeit they have not as yet fled to 
Chrift fincerely, neither ever put a Right Efti- 
mation upon the imputedRightcoufnefs ofChrift. 
Such men, when they fliouid renounce all con- 
fidence in their own Works, and in the fenleof 
their Sinfulnefs fly unto the Covenant of Grace 
offered in Chrift, that in Him they might have 
RemifTioti of Sin, and from Him by Faith draw 
Strength and Ability to bring forth good Works, 
they run a contrary courfe; for in the confidence 
oftheit own Srreneth they go about fund ry Du- 
ties toward Men, and Exercifcs of Religion to- 
ward Qod, trufting in thofc Works.as if by Work? 
they were to be Juftified. Therefore juftlyfliall 
ChriiJ fay unto their?, depart from Me ye workers 

ff 



BOOKII. (49O CHAP. XXVI 

of Iniquity, I never knew you. Such were many 
of the Ifralites, who being ignorant cf the 
RighteouinefsofGod, went about to efiablifli 
their own Righteouihefs. Thefe things when 
one weak in Faith doth confider, no wonder he 
be troubled and be afraid, left he deceive him- 
felf, and perifh, as others have done, 

3. This is a dangerous Difeafe, and fo long 
as it is not cured, it hinders much the tender 
beginnings of the New Creature that it cannot 
come up to manlyStrength./v/7? thereforejet the 
Afflicted wifely examine theCourfe of his bygar e 
Life,left he either Abfolve,or Condemn hitnfdf, 
rafhly ; and let him beware left he eftcem the 
worfe of, the Evidences of a NewCreature, and 
the Fruits of Faith, becaufe thefe that look to be 
Juftified by their Works, can produce the like 
works.*Sfc^/y,lettheAfflided call to mind whe- 
ther in the beginning ofche Reformation of his 
Life, the Law as a Pedagogue did lead him unto 
Chrift,and whether fince that time, the Law did 
daily put him on,and force him to fly to Chrift, 
and to embrace Chrifl: and His Righteoufnefs, 
and hath made him to ftudy Obedience to the 
Law, out of Love tp God, fo much the more 
carefully, as he perceived himfelf obliged thank- 
fully to acknowledge Grace granted in Chrifl; to 
him ; for if any meafure of the daily Exercife; 
pf Repentance, if any meafure of love to Chrifl:, 
and any m eafure of endeavour of newObedience, 
j?c fpund after Examination in the perform 



» 



BOOK If. [ 4 9i CHAP. XXIV 

affli&ed, out of doubt the ground is laid 
folidly of his Salvation, out of doubt he hath 
an Evidence of the work of Grace by the ope- 
ration of the holy Spirit in himfelf. 

4. If in this Examination the Afflicted be 
not clear but the doubt doch yet flick, bccaufe 
of the Sufpicion he hath oF the felt Deceitfulnefs 
of his ownHeart,we offer unto him thisCounfel, 
that he quickly humble himfelf beforeGod, and 
do ingenuoufly acknowledge the native PerverP 
nefs and Deceitfulnefs of his Heart; and for thac 
very reafon, let him embrace Chrift; the Redee- 
mer in the Arms of Faith, offering Himfelf toe- 
very condemned Sinner; and let him tnank God 
who hath deciphered unto him his deceitfulnefs 
of his Heart/and offiredChrul unto him for the 
true Remedy of this & every other (infill Mala^ 
dy.And in the mean time,iet him put a difference 
between himfelf and an Hypocrite,inwhom the 
Deceit of the Heart is neither acknowledged 
nor feen.but foftered and defended: for, a clofs 
Hypocrite,afcerhearingof theDocfcrinc of thede- 
fcitfulnefsoftheHeart,wiil (land to the defend- 
ing of his own Sincerity, & will take it hardly if 
guy Man labour to convince him of any meafure 
ofHypocrify: But a true Convert or Regenerat 
Perfon.will not deny but much Hypocniy may 
be found in him; and albeit he beforrowful, 
That this deceitfulnefs of Heart hath had lodg- 
ing in him,andlyrked toQ long jet is he willing 
& glad to have this Evil more & more difcovcred 

unco 



BOOK//, [494] CHAP.XXIV. 

unto him, and heartily doth he deliver up this 
Traitor to Chrift, to be mortified and abolifhed 
by His Spirit. 

5, But if the AfRided canhot be quiet and fa- 
tisfied, flill fearing and fufpe&ing he be found 
a Man unrenewed, and that for the running iflue 
of this filthy Boy !,opened up to him by the Sword 
of the Spirit, let him beware that he pafs not pe- 
remptor Sentence againft himfelf, that he do not 
conclude himfelf to be a Man altogether in the 
Bond of /niquity; but let him fufpend for a time 
the Difpuration, and do that which is allowed 
unto every felf-condemnedMan in the beginning 
of his Converfion,that is, quickly let him fly un- 
to Chrift for Remiifion of Sin, let him lay hold 
on that Righteoufnefe purchafed by Him; and 
the more he feareth to find God a fevere Judge, 
let him the more firmly lay hold onjefus Chrift 
the Mediator, Who juftifieth the Ungodly by 
Faith : This is the only folid way to perfevere 
in Faith, to overcome Satan, to folve Doubts, 
to refift Temptations, and to cure the Wound 
made by Satan's fiery Darts; For unto that Man, 
who in the fenfe of his Sins and ill deferving,and 
inability to help himfelf, doth fly unto Chrift, 
it fliall never be &id by Chrift, Depart from Me 
I never hew thee, 

6. Now when the Perfon afHiftcd hath of 
pew laid hold on Chrift, and guarded the For- 
trefs of Faith, and repulfed the Tempter,whoby 
all means, and fpccially by quarreling and que- 

ftio 



BOOK II. [ 495 ] CHAP. XXV. 

(Honing the by-paft work of Grace in him, had 
laboured to weaken and overturn his Faith for 
By-goncs, and for the Prefcnt alfo, leftitfcould 
convalcfce and grow ftronger for time to come: 
Now ( I fay> let the Afflicted after Viftory re- 
turn to the Difpute, and to the Examination of 
his (late in Grace, of his Faith in Chrift, and of 
his Regeneration, and he fhall fee all the begun 
faving Graces, which were darkned by Tempta- 
tions, clearly appear, and fhali perceive the feve- 
ral Steps and Degrees of God's Grace toward 
him in former times, more evidently than he 
could difcern them in the Hour of Darknefs and 
Temptation. And fo he ihall return ftom this 
Battel ftronger in Faith than he was before, and 
more perfwaded of the Work of the Holy Spiric 
in him, than he had before the Temptation. 

CHAP. XXV. 
Wherein is fohed the Doult of the true Convert 9 $ 
Converfion, arifing from his breach of the Cove* 
want of Grace, as he conceive tb, 

T Here are fome fincere Converts, who, al- 
beit they do not doubt but Penitents, fly- 
ing toChrift,are received in favour withGod,are 
juftified fromtheirSins,and do obtain Right unto 
all the Priviledges of theSaints; yet they doubt 
Whether every fincere Convert ihall remain in 
die Covenant of Grace, if poffibly they have 
fo, far abuftd G*asc y , aa to defile themfelves 

again 



BO O K 11 I 496 J CHAP. XXV. 

again with thePollutions which they feeriied to 
repent of before. And this erroneous Opinion of 
the intlability of the Covenant of Grace, they 
do apply to themfelves; for, when they have 
found by Experience, the power of Sin, as it 
werenot only ragifig,but in appearance ringing 
in them, as the Confcienceof the relaphng 
in theirold Sins beareth witnefs: And when 
they know their Nature fo corrupt and ready to 
fin yet more, they doubt if this Condition can 
ftand with being in the Covenant of Grace; 
and whatfocver they have found of their being 
in thisCovenant,they now fear that they be fal- 
len from Grace,becaufe they have,as they con- 
ceive,broken the Covenant of Grace on their part,' 
therefore they apprehend alfo,that Gouiinjuftice 
being provocked ofttiraes by them,hath now at 
lafl diflblved the Covenant of Grace on His part: 
For (fay they) it is no-reafon tliatGod fhouldbe 
tyed unto them in Covenant, who fo many ways 
have violated that Covenant, but as Adam, by 
finning excluded himfelf from all benefit of the 
Covenant of Works; fo it is reafon, that every 
one who have violated the Covenant of Grace 
as I have done, fhould be excluded frorp the Cc^ 
venant of Grace. And here the Affli&ed doth 
ftand as a milerable Man, uncertain what to do.- 
in which condition, horrible Temptations and 
heavy Sufpicions of their (late do arife, namely, 
that they are in the condition and cafe wherein 
Bfan was,who when he had fold his birthright for % 

Mels 



BOOK II. [ 497 ] CHAR XXV. 

of Pottage, found no place for Repentance, al- 
beit he fought the Blefling with Tears. Now 
what Torment may be in the Confcience of the 
Affli&ed in this Cafe, it is eafie ( for them who 
at any time have felt the Wrath of God ) to 
conjecture. And this doubt doth vex the Man 
moft, who is cenfeious of his often abufe of 
the Grace of God : For what fhall I do, faith he> 
fliall 1. defile my felf and go and waffi, and a- 
gain cjefile my felf and go and wafh, and by this 
Means augment my own Guiltinefs from day 
to day ? what is, if this be not, to abufe the 
Grace of God > 

, 2. That this Evil may be removed, \£e mirfl: 
confefs that there are many, who after fome 
Remorfe for fome Sins raifed by a natural and 
unrenewed Confcience,do weep now & then (as 
SWdidfor his injuft Perfecution of David) and 
do think, that by their Tears they have wafheti 
away their Sin, and attained to fome fort of 
quietnefs in their Confcience for a time, who 
yet do not ceafe from their Wickednefs, but 
remain in their natural ftate Strangers from 
God andChrift. We muftalfo acknowledge, that 
fome of the Regenejrat in their carnal Security 
falling back in their old Sins, ordinarly are fhar-, 
ply chaftifedby God; and indeed no Wonder 
is,that fuchas have once attained to Peace with 
God,do meet with broken Bones, after they have 
abufed the Grace ofGod.in giving way to their 
finful Lulfo, which was the cafe of David, Pf.$z. 

5-A 



BOOK II C 493 ] CHAR XXV; 

3. As for thofc who fall in open grofs fcan-i 
dalous Sins which defile the whole Man, Soul 
and Body both, itisfafeft for them f whether i 
they were before chat time Converted or nor) to 
let alone long Difputation, whether they were 
Regencrat or not before rheir fearful fall,and to I 
flirup themfelves to a dcepfearchof thewicked- 1 
nefs of their Nature, that they maybe humb- 1 
led before God, and in the fenfc of their in*born j 
Sin and grofs a&ual Out-breakings, fly unto 
Chrill for Pardon and Grace to bring forth bet- 
ter Fruits than they have done. 

4.AS for thefewho havenot fallen in grievous 
open Tranfgreffions, but in their wrcftling a- 
gainft Sin, not obtaining the Victory they j 
would, or hoped to have, dd find themfelves I 
polluted in their Spirits, and put to the woife 
in their Conflict againft their finfui Lufis and < 
Pa/lions, and that very frequently ; and there- 
upon they apprehend,that either they Were ne- 
ver in the ftate of Grace, or if they were in it, 
that they have abufed and broken the Cove* 
nant of Grace, To thefe we anfwer, that eve- 
ry TranfgrefGon of the Commands, albeit' it be 
a violation of the Covenant of works, yet is 
not a .Diflblation of the Covenant of Grace i 
For, it is one thing to fail in a Duty, which the 
covenanted party lfrould have done* another 
thing tobreakordiilblve the Covenant of Grace 5 
for,it is provided in the Covenant of Grace as a 
fpecial Article, that God will forgive the Sin 

#f 



BOOK II. [ 499 1. CHAP. .XXV, 

ofHis confedeiat People,whcn they confefe cheic 
Faults,and fue for Pardon according to the Pro- 
mife of Mercy to the Covenanted. jfc/\ 3 1.31. and 
and left any humble Sinner ihould be diicourag- 
ed and not receive this Solution of his doubt; lee 
him cpnfider the Words of the Apbftle,GW, 6: t. 
ixprefly ice down for their comfort, who, having 
refolved to live tlolily, Juftly, and Temperatly, 
are overtaken in an offcnce,and are not purpofed 
to abufe Mercy,or turn the Grace of God unto 
Lafcivioufhds;and,i Job. z. 1. The (e things I write 
Mntoyou (.to wit |>alie v vet.s in Chrift,careful to liva 
laolily) thai ye fin not; but if any Man Jin, we have a& 
Advocat with the Father, JefusChr Hi the jtift one. And 
this Article of theCovenant,for granting daily re- 
•ftiiffion according to. the ricceffity of the Saints, 
rn$tketh theCovenant of Grace perpetual,& to b« 
daily made ufe of,asweare directed in theLords 
Prayer.And in this doth the Covenant of Grace 
differ from theCovenant of Works,\vhich by aiiy 
pnefin is (b violates the Curfe doth follow, till 
the Sinner run in to theCovenant of Grace in Je- 
fus GhriftiAnd by this Do&rift® a door is not 0- 
pened ijntofinmng.but the door only is doled to 
keep in the trueConvettftom Uefperation.Sc run* 
ning away from Chrift:& to help him out of the 
ic \M\rc of Difcouragement wherein he is fatle.n>lett 
be fink in it § deJpair.Neith'er is the ftudy ofHo- 
fwiefs kindred by this way,or.thediligenceofthQ 
ConVerf flackened in the duties of new obedi- 
ence abd ple^jitig of God, but enly ierviis 

I i Ffcar 



BOOK. II. [ 500 ] CHAP. XXV 

fear in the mariner of Serving God,is taken away 
and the Obligation of Love to God ( Who i 
found to be fo Merciful ) is moreftri&ly tye< 
upon us : which Love (as it is Augmented daih 
by new Confirmations of Faith, aad frefliExpe 
riences of His Grace to us ) doth caft out fervil 
Fear, as the Apoitle Teachech, 1 ]ohn 4. 18. 

As for the Affli&ed Convert, his Fear tha 
he be like Saul, who though he left Remorfi 
and Shame, when all the Beholders in his Arm} 
law himfo Confounded by Davids loyal Car 
riage toward him ; yet did he net repent thii 
Sin at all, nor amend his Life at all; there is ffl 
ground to fufped; himfelf to be like unto him 
or to Efau who was folicitous only for an earth 
ly Blefling ; and when he could not have tli< 
firfl: place in his Fathers Blefling, contented him 
felt \yith what Portion in the Earth he couk 
have beftde. Therefore let thcAffli&edLabou 
to understand well the Nature of the Covenani 
of Grace and the feveral Articles thereof; and 
let him confider, that there is no Advantage tc 
be had by excluding of himfelf from that Cove^ 
nant, but that if he will be Saved, in every 
Condition he mud draw near toChrift; andla-y 
hold on Him for Rcmiflion of Sin, and freih Fur- 
niture of Grace for every Duty : For, it is gook 
always to draw near to Him, becaufe He will de 
firvy M ' thstn that depart far from Him^L j^'zjM 



fat 



yBOOK II. [ ?oi 1 CHAP. XXVI. 

CHAP XXVI 

'Wherein is folved the true Converts Doubt, Wfe- 
J" /for he be Regenerate becaufe he fiv-deth himfe/f 
not only far from the meafure of Holinefs which 
he ebferveth to have been in the Saints commend- 
ed in Scripture \ but alfo Jhort of the meafure 
which fome of his Acquaintance have attained 
unto. 



Ome true Converts are, who in the time 



ly_j wherein they are about to llrengthen their 
iFaith by all Means, do fall in Comparifon of 
K themfelves with other Converts in the matter of 
their Faith, Love, Endeavour, and Attainment 
of an Holy Converfation ;• and finding them- 
felves very fhort of that meafure which not on* 
B ly Saints Commended in Scripture have attain- 
ted unto, but alfo fhort of what fundry of their 
a Acquaintance have gained and given Proof of, 
fuddenly are overtaken with a fad Sufpicion; 
that they may be found none of the number of 
true Converts: As for Example, when they read 
what DavfJ foyttll of himfelf in the Pfalms, and 
namely in the hundred and nineteen Pfalw, 
.they iecm to themfelves fo unlike the Copy he 
hath cad unto them,fo far fhort of that Affecti- 
on to the Word of God, of that Faith, of that 
Diligence, of that Sincerity, of that Patience, 
*f that Fortitude in Afflictions, and Dcle&aticri 
in God, which the practice of thisServanc ofGod 
doth hold forth, that they are alhamed to af- 
}£ iQ ftime 



BOOK It [ 501 I CHAP: XxVf. 

fume the Name of a vifible Saw, or faithful 
Servant of God. And for the Fame reafon, do 
forbear tinder this Exercife to appfy unto them- 
felves the precious promifes made to the 
faithful Servants of God in the Scripture. What f 
am 1 (faith the Affii&ed) that I flioutd prefume 
to intrude my felf in the number of Saints? what 
am I, that I feould apply to my felf what is 
promifed to true Converts and fincere Servants 
of God? Were 1 fuch a one as this Perfon,or that 
Perfon is,I might then,for myCohfolation,apply 
Promifes made unto fuch Saints; but now / 
cannot apply their Privilcdges, except for con- 
viction of my Conference, that I airci juftly for 
jny unlikenefs unto them, fecluded from the 
Promifes made unto them, and thofe that ere 
like unro them. 

x. For loufing of this Doubt we mufi ac- 
knowledge that the companfon ofourfelvcs 
with the Rule of Perfe&ion holden forth in the 
Scripture is to be aimed at by all;and the Com- 
parifon of our (elves with the Eminent Servants 
of God, who have attained a great meafure ol 
growth in Holinefs, is very profitable if it be 
prudently managed : For, the firft Comparifbn 
teacheth us what we Ibou Id endeavour to attain, 
and the other teacheth us \tliat may be by the 
Grace of God attained unto even in this Life 

Again, both thefeComparifons do ferve tc 
humoii us before God, when vc perceive 
eut felvei net onlyfoprt of Perfc#iQn; vehicfc 

m 



( 



leift 
the 



(\ffeOOK IT. [ £b) ] CHAP.-XXVI. 

Mannot be fully attained unto in this Life, but 

co Jib fhort of thefe Degrees which may be at* 

ained, and have been attained by others in this 

ifc, we cannot choofc but think the more 

datjncanly of our felv T es, and put down the Sailsof 

Li^Jelf-eftimation 

Tlrirdly, This fort of Com pari fon is profitable 
o make us more juprightly renounce all confi- 
dence in our own inherent RightcoufneiSjand fly 
jjbr refuge to the Righteoulnefs of Chrifts Obe- 
lience and Satisfaction imputed unto all that 
3elievein Him, according as the example of the 
Apoftle Paul, vyho renounced all confidence in 
}is Priviledges, Performances, Sufferings and in- 
rJierenc Righteoufnefs, counting them all but dung 
'hat he might win Chrift and be found in Him % not 
having his own Righteoufnefs which is of the Law, 
ac ; hut that which is through the Faith of Chrijl; the 
'he Right eoufnefi which is of God by Faith, Phil. 
3* 8. 9. 
flji 3: But this fort of Comparifon is dangerous 
(Janet hurtful when it tendeth to Difcouragement, 
Jwhen it maketh us think little of the Meafure 
[jiof Gods Grace granted unto us, when it makes 
Jus Heartlels in the Courfe of Obedience, a«d 
^Hopclefs that we fliall attain unto the meafure 
;C iWhereunto the Saints have attained. 
I 4 Wherefore let the Affii&ed ftrengthen the 
orbing which rcmaineth and is ready co die,/few, 
c J. 2. let him beware left he quench the 
^fmpakir^ Flax, Of fcrea& the bruited Reed, 

where- 



' 



BOOK 11 [ 504 ] CHAP, XXVI 

wherein he hath Chrift's Helpto look unto, IJa. 
42. 3. Again, let the Affli&ed cohfidcr that there 
are divers Degrees of Saving Faith, divers' Qe-i 
grees ofthemeafure of Sandlification and growth; 
in Grace; for, fome are old Men, fome young, 
and ftrong Men, and fome Babes in Chrift, and r 
that the fame Duties in the fame meafure, areic; 
not to be expe&ed from the tender and weak cc 
beginner, which are required oftheftrong and 
experimented Souldier. 3. Let the Afflicted 
remember, that nothing is given, nor promifed, 
nor done unto the Saints in Scripture or in lat- 
ter Ages for any merit or worthinefs in them, 
but altogether of free Grace : And fo much the 
more fhould this be remsmbred,as this doubt- 
ing of the Affli&ed, arifing from comparifon of 
his condition with the meafure of Sandtificatiori fj 
in others doth prefuppone the contrary, v as if 
God did deal withHis Children according to 
the worthinefs of their Perfons, & merit of theit 
good Works, which is a fall'e Suppofition; for, 
why doth the AfHidied call down his Courage, 
and weaken his Faith and Confidence in God, 
but for this very caufe, that he counieth him 
felf a much more unworthy Man, and of left 
merit before God than thofe Saints were, Qr are 
with whom he hath compared himfeif ? 4. Let 
theAffli&ed by Co much as he doth perceive him- 
feif more unworthy, and more fmful than thofe 
Saints with whom he hath compared himfeif, 
tfiruft himfeif the more into the Bofom ofrich 

Grace 



1 

tin 

fa 
iot 
k 
bri 



/JOOK II. [ ?o? ] CHAP. XXVI. 

3racc; lee him (b much the more lay hold on 
:he imputation of Quid's Righteoufnefs, and 
ever his Nakednefs therewith, and employ 
thrift by Faith fo much the more, that out of 
riisFulnefs he may receive Grace for Grace,and 
>e made able by His Spirit to bring forth rror 
abundant Fruits, and come up nearer unto Con- 
brmity with Chri(l,and theExamples of renown- 
:d Saints. 5. Let the Afflidted confider that we 
mift live by Rules fet down in Scripture, aiming 
fincerely at obedience of holy Precepts, albeit 
we have not yet come up unto the Pra&ice of 
the Rule in that meafure, which others have ai# 
rained unto. 

CHAP. XXVII. 

Wherein isfolved the true Converts Doult, whether 
he he in the hlejjed ft ate if Grace, hecaufe he 
findeth him/elf frequently in an evil Condition. 

Experience teacheth; that fundry true Con- 
verts, becaufe they, feeling themfelves oft- 
times in an ill condition, do call in queftion 
their being in the blefled Hate of Grace, not coa- 
fidering, that the condition of a Man, whether 
in the Hate of Nature unrenewed, ©r in the 
Hate of Grace may be comparatively in better 
or worfe Condition, and yec his flats remain 
the fame. The multitude of the misbelieving 
Htlrmh wcic in an evil conditio at the 

en e 



J30 0KIL [ $c6 } CHARXXVII. 
one fide of the Red * Sea, when they repented 
their coming out pf/sg)/tf,butin abetter condition 
when rh^y did fmg Praifes unto God on the o- 
ther fide of the Sea,and yet for their ftate,fome 
were, yea t»oft part, ftill in Nature unrenewed.- 
Mo[e% and Aaron were in an evilGondition when 
their Paifion offended God at the fmiteing of the 
Kock ; but when they did interceed' with God 
for the peopled when wrath Was kindled againft 
tlieHoft, they Were in a better Condition: 
j^nd both in the one time and in the other they 
vtere in the flrate of Grace, true Saints in God's 
JJCiimatiorj. This Miftake of the weak in Faith, 
hot putting difference between their prefent difc 
pofition & their$tate,maketh them judge of them- 
selves to be in the it ate of Grace when their 
Condition is Good, and to be in theftate of Na- 
ture unrenewed when they feel themielves in 
in Evil Condition, when they obferve tlieir 
HeaVt inlarged to run the way of Gods Com- 
mandmenrsjhen they efteern themfelves truljj 
Itegenerat,& when they feel thsmfelves fluggtfli 
inthework of theLord^'dU in hearing theWord, 
flow to believe what the Scripture fpeakcth; 
when they efteem their ordinary Service to be 
after a Form of Godlinefs,withoutAffe(9:ion and* 
jpowor, and what fervice they do, to proceed 
from' :fear of Wrath, rather then from 
the new and right Principles ofaRegenerat 
Ma®; A«n they queftioa all the works of -Gjracji 



«OOK II | ?07 [ CHAP. XXVII. 

in themfetves, What fhall 1 think, faith the Af- 
fli&ed, concerning my ftate in Grace, when 1 
find my condition fo frequently not only ihort 
of what it fhouldbe,butalfo polluted with divers 
(brts of Sins ? 

2. Foranfwer, we muft grant, that the ex- 
ternal Duties of Religion, may be difcharged 
fromfteflily and corrupt principles; for many do 
perform commanded external Duties, that they 
may efhew the Reproach of Impiety, or that 
they may infinuat therhfelves in the good cfti- 
mation a»id favour of the Godly, or for iome 
bafe earthly Ends, for which grofs Hypocrits 
Jo whatfoever they do in Religion. 

Like unto thefe are all felf-decdving Hypocrits 
who go about to eftablifli their own Righteouf- 
nefs, miskening that Righteoufnefe which is of 
God by Faith,as if God could be obliged to take 
their performance for a full Satisfaction for their 
former Sins* and would look' upon their works 
as meritorious of eternalLife;& therefore becaufe 
Men may deceive themfelves, i. The Afflicted 
lhall do well to examine himfclf, whether he hath 
renounced all confidence in the Fle(h,or his own 
works, Phil. 3. 8, 9. and fled unto Chrifl: kt 
Righteoufnefs, with fome mcafure of honeft 
endeavouring to Worfliip and (ervc God in his 
Spirit; which if his Confcience can witnefs un- 
to him to be his way wherein he is walking* 
then may lie be allured that he is a true Convert 
i.. ,Anci albeit it be tr,ue that the Impcrj 



BOOK If. { 508 ] CHAP. XXVII, 

fedions of the Regencrat Man do many times 
obfcur/e hisState inGrace,yet can they not exftin- 
guiih the Spo^k of Regeneration begun in him, 
or prove the work of Grace in him not to be at 
all. 3. We grant that the condition of a true 
Convert at fometimes maybe fobad,by reafon 
©f finful Diftemper and flefhly Carriage, that 
many unrenewed Mejis Converfation fhall be 
found far more commendable, then the prcfent 
condition and carriage of the renewed Mania 
his finful condition : In which cafe neither God 
nor his own Conference, nor any that feareth 
God can fpeak any thing but Wrath to him, tiii 
he Repent & Turn to God for Mercy in Chrift; 
yet the afjhdted penitent Convert, lamenting his 
badConditonjs in better cafe than any unrenew- 
ed Man can be into ; For the very Grief and 
Perplexity which he findeth, becaufe his condi* 
tion is fo oft ill and finful, proveth his good 
Affection toward God, and his earneft deiire to 
walk before God unto all weil-pleafingin all 
things and at all times. 

3. But if the Afflicted fhall infift and object, 
that the Fear of God's Wrath and Judgments, 
ordinarly is a main Motive which fetteth him 
©n to do the Duties and Service which God re- 
quired! of him, and not the Love of God, 
the felt in- lake whereof, doth make him go on 
halting and heavy in the ways of God. We an- 
fwer, that -albeit the Fear of Gods W T rath and 
lodgments looked upon alose, doth not prove 

Re* 



BOOK II. [ 509 ] CHAP. XXVII. 

Regeneration, yet it may well confift with Re- 
generation: Becaufe God "doth not for nought 
joyn with His' Precepts, fearful Thrcatenings of 
Judgements againft thofe who fliali tranfgrefs 
His Commands;that they may be asaSpur inHis 
Childrcns Sides, to prefs them to their Duties, 
aind as a bridle to curb and check their vicious 
Inclination unto Sin, which lodgeth in all Men 
by Nature. And this Motive 1$ evident in the 
experience of the Prophet, Pf. 119. 120. My 
liefb trembkth for fear of Thee, and I am afraid 
of Thy judgements. 2. it may be that the Af- 
flicted, lately converted unto God, be not free 
as ycc from the Spirit of Bondage, but be keep- 
cd inlome meafure under the Bonds of fervile 
Fears,God (b difpofing,for the humbling,exerci- 
fmg and training of His Child lately entered in 
His Holy Warfare;iu which condition his Fear is 
commendable, when it arilech from the Confci- 
ence pf his finful Short-coming in Gods Service 
and of the prevailing of his Corruption againft 
the begun work of Renovation. Wherefore,lec 
the Afflicted go about the difcharge of com- 
manded Duties in his Chriftian Calling,and par- 
ticular ftation, wherein God hath placed him, 
in whax condition foever he fliali find himfelf. 
2. Let him compare his prefent Condition,\vhich 
he doth count an ill Condition, with the bygone 
better Condition, whereof he hath poflibly ex- 
perience frequently; and when he calleth to 
wind theCqmforrs he hatk had,and the lnlarge- 

merrt 



BOOK If. [ jio 1 CHAP. XXVII. 

ment of Heart to run in the way of God's Com- 
mandment, in hope of a change of his prelent 
Conditon to the better, in hope of finding re- 
newed Blinks of the Lords Countenance,let him 
humbly wait on God in the ufe of the means 
appointed, till the Day-ftar arife in his Heart; 
praying with the F/i/w//?,that God would quic- 
ken him according to His loving Kindnefe. 3. 
Let him cleave the more clofply to the Cove- 
nant of Grace and the Righteoufnefs which is 
bj' Faith in Jefus Chrift, withal giving Thanks 
unto God for the Grace beftowed on him, for 
the giving unto him Eye-falveto fee his Blind- 
nefs, N^ikednefs and Mifery, and for making 
Sin odious and grievous unto him in any mea- 
fure, and for drawing him to Chrift to be his 
Refuge in his worft condition. 

C H A P. XXV11T. 
Wherem is folved the Doubt of the true Convert 
concerning his Regeneration, hecaufe h$. findeth 
the power of the 3ody of Death in the pollution 
oj the Imaginations of Ins Heart, vigorous and 
powerful. 

THere are fome true Converts, who albeit 
they be cleanfed from the Pollutions that 
are in the World,and have their Converfation 
biamelefe and without giving fcandal unto them 
they live among.yet frequently are troubled with 
doubting of their ftats in Grace, becaufe they 
feel in themfcives fuch a power of in- bred Cor- 
ruption of their Hearts, a$ can hardly confift 



BOOK A r yn } CHAP. XXVlIt 

(as they conceive,) with Regeneration and fav- 
ing Faith; becaufe, James Chap. 3. Ver. 11. 
makcth the Queftion thus, Doth a Fountain fend 
forth at the fame place (weet Water and litter} &c. 
unto the end of the Chapter, This Doubt the 
Afflicted wreftles with, and faith with himfelf 
What fhall /think of my (elf, whofe Heart is 
polluted, that it cafteth forth continually Dire 
and Mire? how ihall 1 reckon my felf among 
the Saints ? how (hall / intrude my felf among 
thejuftified, who find (b little evidence of tho 
work of Sandtification in me? For Faith Ihould 
purifie the Heart from this pollutidir, whereof / 
do juftly complaint 

i". For folving of this Doubt, many things 
arc already fpoken which ferve for the curing of 
this Cafe, and comforting the Afflicted in this 
condition; but becaufe one and the fame Doubt 
doth diverfely prefent it felf now in one fliape, 
then in another, and doth vex the Affiled in 
iundry Wayes, we fhall anfwer this Doubt p™- 
pofed as it isfet'dowti. 

Firfl therefore, let the Affli&ed examine him* 
felf whether he may with fomc meafure of ho- 
aefty fay vtith the Pfalmift, Pf66. 18. /do not 
regard /niquity fn my Heart, /do not fo delight 
m Sin, but that Sin is dill my Afflidionand my 
daily Grief. Secondly, kt him examine himfelf 
Whether the power of Corruption doth break 
forth in Words and Deeds or not,or if it do 

mm m m km wM°m &% v^ctherhb 



BOOK II. [ 512, ] CHAP. XXVIII; 

doth open the Slucc and give it way, or whe- 
ther he lets himfeif to oppofe the out breaking 
ofiSin, and is humbled for what doth break 
forth. Thirdly, Let him examine, whether he 
flyeth to Chrilt to wafti him, and help him a- 
gainft the power of Sin, or not. If after exa- 
mination he can in any meafure ofhoneftyjoyn 
with the Apoftle in his Lamentation, and re- 
coutfe unto Chrift: for Delivery, Rom. 7.24. %$ 
he may be aflured he is ki the (late of Grace : 
Fox, there is a vaft difference between- a Man's 
being fold unto Sin by his native Corruption 
captivating him,& aMan'sfetting of himfeif unto 
Sin, as a voluntary Servant of Sin: For a renew- 
ed Man may be infundry Cafes a Captive to Sin, 
and a Fighter : agamPt Sin: But a Man felling 
himfeif to Sin,is a Slave voluntarly,fu£Fering Sin 
to reign in his .Mortal Body. 

Let the Affii&ed therefore comfort himfeif, 
becaufe in- him there is a perpetual Conflict be- 
tween the Flefliand- the Spirit, between Kis na- 
tive Inclination to Siti, and the new Creature* 
or Inclination to Holinefs. Neither let hirr*,ky 
mifunderftood Scripture formerly cited, vex 
himfeif; for, his Faith is indeed upon the work, 
and. the way of purifying his Heart; Fir(l y be- 
caufe he doth flv ftp the Blcod of Ch riit, 
which cletfnfeth him from all Sin, in refoe<3; of 
Remillion granted. Secondly^ there is a conllant 
endeavour to be more and more Holy, and to 
draw vertue by Faith frcm Clirift to bring forth 

gooJt 



B OOK II [ s r 3 1 CHAP - xxvm. 

good fruits well pleafing unto God. Thirdly \ 
he is about to mortifie his Lufts by the Spirit of 
Chrift, and ro purge out the Leaven of all Fil* 
thinefs of Flefli and £pirit,albeit he cannot purge 
it out all at once, or wholly in this Life. And 
Fourthly, becaufc albeit his doubting of his E- 
ftatc in Grace be not allowable; yet it doth 
bear Witncfs that the remainder of Pollution in 
him i* his Grief, Affii&ion and Vexation. S» 
alfo that other Scripture, James 3. 11, which 
faith, That out of the fame Fountain proceed* 
eth not fait Water and fweet, is not to be un- 
derftood fo, as if no Rotten Speech could pof- 
fibly 1 roceed out of the Mouth of a Regenerat 
Man at any time; for James doth witnels, that 
in many things we Sin all, ill Thought, Word, 
and Deed; But the meaning is, that he that brid- 
leth not his Tongue, his Religion is vain, and 
nothing but a prefumpcuous Boafting of that 
which is not real and in truth, and that it is in- 
confiftent with Regeneration, that out of a 
Mans Mouth pretending to blefs God, Gurfing 
of Men who are made after the fimilitude of 
God, (hould flow forth as Waters flow forth 
irorrtft running Fountain without Controlmenr, 

CHAP. XXiX. 
Shewing how to quench the £ery Darts ofSatan t and 

reftjt his finftdSuggeftions, whether of fborter en* 

durance, or longer continuance. 

SOmetime tfn a fudden Satan cafteth a fiery 
Jtyrt of Tarnation tjneo feme S)«,as his MeU 



BOOK. If. [ 514 J ; CHAP. XXVllfc 
fenger feeking to prepare the lodging for him : 
which Tentation he doth fo furioufly prefs, as 
if he would not be refufed, or could not be re- 
filled; and poffibly may fo bear-in hisTentation 
as the Convert may he afraid chat Satan fhali 
prevail finding himfelf, as it were,over-powred, 
and unable to bear out in fuch a cafe, as the 
Apoftle had experience of,x Cor t 1 2. 7. 8, 9. 
who found himfelf,as it vvere,buflfeted & abufed 
by the Meflenger oF Satan, and unable of him- 
felf to fefift him. The Remedy whereof is, 
that the Affli&ed with the Apoftk be humb- 
led in himfelf, in the fefrle of his in-born Sin* 
fulnefs and Inability to overcome Tentationsl 
2,. That he fly to Chrift the Captain of militant 
Souldiers, ahd do pray unto Him inftantly to 
Help to bear but in the Conflict, and to be 
rid of the Tempter. 3. Let him holdkft the Faith 
of promiied Grace,and wrcftle o'nfo long as it 
fhall pleafe God to exercife himfo. 

With fuch aTentation ]eh alfo was exercifed, 
which fo far prevailed, as to make carnal and 
corrupt Nature fpeak for it. The Tentation was 
very fearful, and no iefs then Seif-murther, ]oh 
7. 13. 14; r£. Whilft I fay my Couch /hall eafe 
my Cow pi tint, then Thou fear reft me with Dream sf 
and ter rift eft trie with Night mfions.fothatmy Saul 
choofeth Strangling and Death rather than Life. 
The Remedy whereof is, with Joh to fly to the 
Redeemer, and fix Faith upon Him, and to pre- 
gnt th? Tentatiorj untp &<o$ by grayer and 



50 0KII. [ 5xs ] CHAP.X, 

)ie Lamentation, driving againfl: the Suggelh 
.nd never to give over relying on God,as hedidi 
x. Sometime Satan when he cannot find in- 
truments to charge the Convert with Hypocri- 
ie,& a Curfe of Wickcdnefs as he found \t\Johs 
Trial by his uncharitableFriendsJie ufeth imme- 
diatly to fall aRailing againft the whole courfe 
)f the Work ofGrace in the Convert,& Charge 
lim falfely with DcepGuiltincfs.as Calumniators 
ufe to do in their furious Fiyting & Slandering 
}f fuch as they hate,hoping howFalf«& Ground- 
ers fbever the Calumnies be, that yet fomething 
hall prove likely and probable, and fo fatten 
Tofnething upon the Innocent. In which cafe 
!et the Aifli&ed life up his Mind to the Lord, 
and pray Him to rebuke Satan, z. Let him 
humble himfelf in the acknowledgment of his 
natural Corruption, and having fled to Chrift 
For Righteoufnefs, let him take the fhield of 
of Faith for quenching that dact. 3 , Let him as 
he is enabled, contemn thefe dcvilifh (ladders 
of Satan, and fet his Mind on fomebetter em* 
ploymcnt then to difpute with fo Impudent and 
Reftlefs an Adverfary;for we haveother Bufinefs 
to go about, then to take notice of the Dog§ 
barking at us; but if it pleafe God to continue 
that exercife from Day to Dayjer. the Afili&ed 
in patience fubmit himfelf to God, and di« 
red: his fpeech and thoughts unto God only 
not anfwering dire&ly fuch a Shimei at 
$11. It is not fafe to dircil eur fpsech to 



I 



P'BOOK. II. [ 5 1 6 ] CHAP. XXIX 

Satan at all, but let us fay to God, the Lord 
rebuke Satan. 

3. Sometime Satan falleth on with Sugge- 
(lions, blafphemous againft God, and all the I 
Grounds of Religion, and Fathers all thefe it, 
Blafphernies on the AfHi&ed as his proper Sins, r! 
In which cafe, let the Affli&ed be humbled be-Jiir 
fore God, becaufe of original Sin, whereof Sa- 
tsui maketh uie, as of fome thing of his own 
in us. z. Let him renew the grips of Faith on 
Chrift the Mediator, in Whom the fulneis of the 
Godhead dwelleth, reconciling the Eledr World 
toHimfelf, not imputing their Sins unto thepi. 

Let not the Afflicted look upon thefe bJ^Q w, 
phemiesotherways than! as Satan's Malice a- or 
gainft God, for fo they arc indeed, and not tr 
the Sins-fef the poor Soul vexed with fuch Sug- pi 
ge'flions. 4. Let the Afnidted beware of Di£ 
Couragments.Misbelief or weakening of his Faith 
in God, of Irhpatiency and Fretting under this 
fad Exercife : For, there is more cauie of Fear 
from Satan's fecond fubtile Tentations then from. 
his grofs Suggeftions, whereby at the back of jd 
the former grofs Blafphernies, he goeth about '37 
to draw the Afflicted to the iufpicionof the for- a; 
nier work of Grace in him, and of Gods love ^ 
Unto him. Hs wiles in this cafe a^e much more ata 
dangerous then his violence in his furious lyon-vi&e 
like Aflaults: For he may more eafily gtt the kit 
content of the Afflicted to fome fits of .Misbe- J e; 
|ief ^nd Impatience or iqgje other Sins, then | ; ; 

%Q 



uc ; 
b 

ft 

ifc 



a 

tl 
Bfr 
atar 



XiOOK II. r yx? 1 CHAP. XXIX: 

- c 4:o admit or confent unco any of tlicfe grofs Blaf- 
^hemies fuggefted. 

4. Sometime when the young and tender Con- 
crt, is reading or hearing an Sermon, the fad 
Sentences of God agaiiift fuch and fuch Sins 
ivhich* do reign in the Wicked, Satan flyetli on 
lim with a falfe Application faying, thou art the 
Man, and doth no: a little diCjuiet the weak in 
aith. In which cafe, let the AiJlidtedconfidcr, 
hat whatfoever is fpoken in or from Scripture 
>f the Maledi&ions of the Law, are fpoken a- 
;ainft them that are under the Curfeofthe 
.aw and Covenant of Works, 1 Tim. 1.8. who 
ave not repented their £ms, nor fled toChrift, 
a- 

o^tification;buc thefe Curfes are not fpoken a- 
ainft the Righteous, that is to fay, againlt 
ich as in the fenfe of their Sinfulnefs do loath 
iii| lemfelves and are fled to Chrift forRefuge,and 
is ave taken on His Yoke upon them,already Ju- 

ified, and begun to be Sanctified. 
c;n| 5. Sometime Satan doth abufe the Scripture 
sof id put a wrong fenfe upon it, that thereby he 
:atj:ay wound thefe that are Aveak in the Faith : 
Dr Example it is written, Rom. 14, Z3. Whofo- 
)er doultethis damned if he eat.Baz thou ( faith 
itan to the young and weak Convert) haft 
>ne many things, whereof thou didft doubt 
hether they were lawful or not ; yea thou 
ill eaten the Supper of the Lord with doubt- 
g ; Therefore thou art Damned, iigain itis 
&k 2. " writ- 



BOOK ft t "718 [ CHAP. XXIX. 

written, 1 Cor.w.xy.He that eateth the Sacramen- 
tal Bread of the Lord,^ Drinketh of the Cup of 
the Lord unworthily, eateth and drinketh his own 
CondenwatioH&ut thou,faith £atan,haft eaten the 
Bread and dtunken the Cup of the Lord unwor- 
thily ,for thou knovveft thou art very unworthy- 
Therefore thou haft eaten ^nd drunken thy own 
Condemnation.^ this Cale and fuch other like, 
let the affli&ed Convert enquire of the Pallor, 
or fome faithful Chriftian better acquaint with 
Scripture,concerning the Senfe of the words in 
Seripture,which feem to make againfi: him, that 
the Words being well underftood, the doubt 
may be diflblved. As for Example, thefe fore r 
faid abufed Scriptures do only declare the Sen- 
tence of the Law againft him that doth what ho 
Doubteth to be lawful, but doth not exclude 
him from Mercy upon the Acknowledgement of 
his Sin, and flying to the Mercy offered in 
Chrift Jefus. And by Eating and Drinking un- 
worthily, we mud nptunderftand that every one, 
who finding himfelf unworthy, fly eth to the Grace 
offered and fealed in the Supper of the Lord.eat- 
€thunworthily;for,fono Man fliould eat worthi- 
ly, for all worthy Commumcants,in thefenfeof 
their unworthinefs,mufland do fly to free Giace 
offered in Chrift;butthe meaning,is,tlut thefe do 
eat and drink unworthily, who profane theSacra- 
ment,and put no diffetenee betwixt this holy 
Banquet of the Lord, and a common Sup- 
perjysa and even this Sin of noc difcerning the 



BOOK II [ 519 ] CHAP. XXIX 

Lord's Body, doth not exclude the Man frotii 
Mercy;for the Apoille.for Remedy of this Sin, 
€*hortcth thefe who are guilty to judge them* 
felves, that Co they may not be judged by God, 
who pardoneth thePenitenr,i Cor. 11. 31. And 
fo let theAffli&ed,for {lengthening of his FaitH 
know, that every Scripture which fpcaketh a- 
gainft £in,doth drive the guilty Man unto Repen- 
tance and Faith in Chrift,without whofe Grace, 
fought after and embraccd,there is no Salvation* 
6.Sometime Satan the Adverfary of all Con- 
verts doth afiault the Faith of God's Children,' 
when he findeth them under fome prefent Guil- 
tinefs lately contra&ed, or under Trial of thek 
Faith as under Defertion and Difconfolation, 0$ 
fome miferable Condition, whereof he taketht 
advantage to fuggeft to theChild of God,that hi$ 
Faith is but Phantafie, that God neither Jovetli 
him nor can love the like of him.In which cafe, 
let the Aifli&cd humble himfelf before God,and 
fly toHim inChrift feeking Reconcliatioh,let hiin 
x.refolve fully to adhere to theCdvenant ofGaacc 
offered to fclkcondemnedSinhers through Chrift, 
a.Lct him obferve his prefent condition to be the 
day of his Vifitation,Triai& Probation whatufe 
be will make ofChrift in hisDifScuhies & Straits 
3. Let him in the ufe of Gods Worfiiip wait for 
theDay-ftar of divine Conlolation promifed td 
thofe that wait on the Lord Jfa 49.10, 11, and 
H^/6,3.& 7/^40.31; And Iaftofall (left wcinfift 
too long in reckoning the innUnfierable Wiles oi 
l^ectafty Serpeut)la every CcnYertc^nfidef thaf 



BOOK II. [ 520 ] CHAP. XXX 

there is no time while we dwell in the Taberna- 
cle of this Body of Death wherein we may be 
fecure from Satan's Infmuations and crafty Sug- 
gestions, or his more difcovered and open A(V 
faults; that there is no Bufmefs we can go about, 
wherein this crafty Hunter flaall not dig a Pit 
or lay a Snare to inrrap us, no Affliction nor 
Difficulty, wherein he ihall not ftudy. to keep 
us back from making Chrift out Refuge, our 
Helper and Deliverer .• And that therefore 
we nitfft take heed to obey the warning of the 
A^ojXlc.Ephf 6.10, n, 1 2 , 1 3 . Finally my Bre- 
thren le flrong in the Let 'eland in the power of His 
Might ; put cnth? s ii4)ole Armour cf God, that ye 
way le ahk to ftandagainft theW.ilesof the Devil, 
and fo forth to the ead of the ^Chapter* 

. - 

GHAP. XXX. 

I 
Wherein are forn^ mixed Cafes fy&kexpf> ivherewtp 
' c true Gon^ri [is fuljecLandfo, may fall todou&£ 
■ of his Qonverfion or Inter e{l in Qhrift, 

THcre are, befide the Cafes Whereof wc 
have give^fome Examples and lnftances* 
outer Cafes alio, which we may czll mixed Cafes, 
the Caufes whereof are partly Natural, partly 
Spiritual, wherein the true Convert maybe 
afflicted with both Bodilyand Spiritual Diftem- 
pers; melancholious Humors abounding in the 
jk>c»y, .andSacaa bu|jQ cq gir bimfelf in thefe 



BOOK II. r jii ] CHAR XXX: 

(tempers to the weakening the Faith of the? 
Convert, may take advantage* to vex the Child 
of God. 

2. Thefe bodily Diftempers are common both 
to the unrenewed and to the Regenerat : For* 
God hath not exeemed His Children from Dif- 
eafes of Body; for, the Righteous and the W i/e B 
& their works, are in the hand of God;no Man know* 
eth either Love or Hatred hyall that is before htm; 
all things come alike to ah \there is one Event /or ac« 
cident which may befall,) to thjt Righteous & to the 
Wicked Jo the Good & to the Clean, and to the Ur^ 
clean \ to him that Sacrificeth and to him that Sa- 
crificeth not; as is the Good,fo is the Sinner, and 
he that Sweareth as he that jear eth an Oath.ElcdcC 
9.1. z. S.ud the King of Ifrael'm his melancholi- 
ous fit,may (by the inftigation of an uncleanSpi- 
rit, changing himtejf into an Angel of Light ) 
fall on Propheficing in the midlt of his Houfe, 
while he is about to Murther David, 1 Sam. 
1 8. 10: and Experience hath ibewed, that fome 
lying in grofs Sins while they Were themfelves 
and in their Wirs, were found very rude and ig- 
norant inMatters of Religion and things Divine; 
but fometime falling in a melancholious Extafie 
and Rapture, they could reheatle a number of 
Paflages of £criptuce,and feemed topray,and tc* 
bring a number of Arguments in their praying,a$ 
if they had been wrellling vr ith God for Mercy, 
of which Scriptures or Words of prayer, they 
neither tfenfe fior Memory,when they came 
& k 4 to 



fcM 



fcOOK it r i%* I CHAR XXX 

to thcmfelves after the melancholiousExtafic was 
over, wincli Fit iafled fcmetimesan Hour, fome- 
times two or thereby ;all which time they neither 
did hear nor fee the witnefles fitting by,& behold- 
ing the Spectacle. On the other hand, Experience 
hath llie wed how farSatan may abufe & hath abut 
the Phantafie of fome holy Perfons,in the height 
of fharp Fevers and Frenfies;and what fpeeches a- 
p gainft God and their own Souls, by his Inftiga- 
tion they have uttered. We have an Example 
in Job, who in his hot Fever & painful Boils,like 
a Man diftradled,cryed out, that God was turn- 
ed an Enemy to hi m,that He did flioot all His 
Arrows againft him; whereupon in his Diftem- 
per he cryed fo: Death, and curfed the day of 
his Biith mod bict^rly. Of which Expreffions 
when he is challenged by his uncharitable 
Friends.and judged to be nothing but a wicked 
Hypocrit, he excufeth himfelf, that when he 
fpoke thefe Words was hoc himfelf,but in a rov- 
ing Diftemper, Joh.6. 16. Do ye imagine to re» 
prove Words, and the Speeches of one that is defpe* 
rat, which are as wind > 

3. But our purpofe here is not to difcourfe of 
Melancholy in general, nor wiiat may befall in 
common to the Godly and the Wicked in me- 
lancholions Firs: For this doth require a larger 
Treatife,and the concurrance both of Phyficians 
and Divines. We purpofe only to fpeak to what 
the true Convert is obnoxious unto: And when 
we ipeak of mixed Ca&Cj wherein both the Di- 

ft«sa 



B fiOOK n. [ f oj ] CHAP. XXX* 

(temper of the Body and Brain do concur with 
the Temptation of Satan, we do not take notica 
of any light Diftemperof Body and Mind,which 
fuddenly cometh and is foon removcd,or which 
the private diligence of the Child of God,in the 
ufe of the Means, may and ufeth to overcome; 
Neither do we meddle with Phrenfies and Mad- 
nefs; which fo beraveth the Man of the ufe of 
common Reafon, that he cannot und«r- 
ftand of make ufe of wholfome Advice and 
Counfelfiom the Scripture, or rightly conceive 
truth when it is told unto him (Tor in fuch m 
Cafe the Phyficianonly is to be called to deaf 
with the Difeafed, not excluding the Prayer of 
the Paftor and Chriftian Friends for him) But 
we are to fpeafc concerning more moderat Di- 
{tempers wherein the Affiled may lay forth, 
his Tentations, and propound the Reafons which 
feem to ortifie hisDoubts,& to difpute of them, 
and receive reafonable Anfwers to his Objecti- 
ons as they are offered unto him.And in a wori 
fuch a condition of the Mans Mind as maketh, 
him ready to hear and follow the Advice, both. 
of thePhyfician and the Paftor,as his need re* 
quireth .Now it is nottour,that the Imagination 
of thefe who are of this midle fort of Diftempea 
doth ordinarly fain to its fclf fad and terrible 
Things, and being fired with MelancholiousHu- 
mours and Tentations of Satan mixed therewith, 
ufeth to reprefem to its felf Gods hot difpleafure, 
ft»k G?nde»n^«S *$4 H$ll # §§ !! were b^ 



BOOK II [ JM 1 CHAP. XXX. 

fore their Eyes; fo that it is no wonder, that for 
the time they doubt whether they can poflibly ,: 
be in the ftate of Grace. But in fpec>al, this 
feemethmoft heavy unto them, that their Con- 
ference in the mean time doth write bitter things 
againft them, and double upon them the deferv- 
ed Sentence of Condemnation, calling up the 
particular Sins (poflibly repented o£ and par- 
doned ) as meriting Rrjedion from God. And 
here mainly is the flick. 

i In difcerning and curing fuch Gafes, there 
is great need of wile Gircumfpe<5fron : For,/ry?, 
Information muft be had of the Affli&ed's Con- 
dition, fo far as his Friends and Familiars can 
furnifh. . 2. The Cure of his Woiind mud be 
tenderly gone about, as the Chirurgian ufeth to 
do, wheo ne is to deal with the A pie of a Man's 
Eye. 5. VVhatfoever feem at ths firft, it (hail 
be fafeft for the Comforter of the Affli&ed, ■ not 
to fpeak peremptorily of the Man's Statopr Con- 
dition, yea, nor to judge within themfelves de- 
terminatly about him. 4. But it (hall.be fafefl: 
to hear the Afflided Pitiently, to layout his 
own Condition rrior-e or lefs confu{edly,r in mqs 
or fewer Speeches as he is able to- exprcts it. 5. 
What is further to be fearched after, by pru- 
dent Interrogations, l:t it be pumped up fo far 
as conveniently may be. 6. So foorias his Con- 
dition is clear to the Pauof, or Friend, who is 

abouc 



BOOK n t W 1 CHAP: XXX. 

about to help him, let the Speaket unto him,re- 
colledi in few Words his Condition as he con- 
cciveth it, and take up his Doubt in a word a$ 
fhortly as may be, that the Afflidted may per- 
ceive, that his Cafe is well taken up by thePaftor 
or Chriftian Friend. For oft-times here is the 
Cure marred, when the Affli&ed conceiveth than 
his Cafe is not rightly apprehended, or what is 
fpoken, is not fpoken to purpofe. 7. Whatfo- 
ever his Cafe feem to be, Chriftian Companion 
muft be fhewed to the Afflicted, and his Afflicti- 
on eflimat no lefs than the Afflicted conceiveth 
of it, but made poflible for God to cure it. For^ 
even our Lord in the Refurrection of Lazarus 
groaned in His Spirit, in Companion toward 
the mourning Friends, before He gave them the 
fullConfolation. And furely, Compaffion doth 
well become a Phyfician ; For, it is an Addition 
to the Affliction of the Afflicted, when the Be- 
holder cometh to him, to think little of his pain. 
8< Whether the Afflicted feem to be a Convert 
or not, let him be exhorted by his prefent Exet* 
cite to humble himfelf before God^ and confefs 
his original aad actual Sins to God, and fly to 
the Grace of Reconciliation, and remiflion of Sins 
and Confolation holden forth in the Gofpel to 
every felfrcondemned Sinner, through jefus 
Chrifl our Lord; For, Chrift is the End* of the 
Law for Pvighreoufnefs; when the Confcience is 
burdened, and the Ro^d is heavy, cIjq Curfe of 



1 the 



BOOK.IL [ yitf ] CHAP.XX1X. 

the Law, and the Rod of Correction do drive ' 
the Man to fly nnto Chrift and take His Yoke t 
upon him:And this Courfe is wholfome and fafe* It 
whatfoevcr be the Affli&ed Mans eftate, whe- 
ther he be Converted or not. 

5*. And as for that fpecial Stratagem of Satan, 
whereby he beareth in the Sentence of Condem- 
nation on the Affli&ed, and fireth his Phantafie 
with the continual Ingemination,and inculcating 
of this fiery Dart, crying over and over again 
blafphemous Words,charging the Affli&ed with 
the Sin thereof,and pronouncing Sentence againft 
him,faying,thou art Condemned,thou art a Re- 
$>tfobat,& fuch like-.the AfflidtedMan muft be in- 
formed, i.that fuch peremptory Sentences are not 
from the Lords Spirit fpeaking in the Scripture, 
but from thefalfe Accufcr of the Brethren; for, 
God pronounceth not condemnation,but Remif- 
rton of Sin to every one that flyeth to Chrift. 
a. That he muft put difference betwixt Satans 
part in the finful Suggettions, and his own pare 
in reje&ing of them, abhoring them and griev- 
ing for them. 3.- That he muft put a great difc 
ference between his Imagination (or Phantafie) 
and hisConfcience, between the voice found- 
ing in his Phantafie, whether he will or not, and 
the Sentence of his well informed Conference 
approving, or difallowing what is offered unto 
it to be chofen or refufed, confentcd unto or 
dif-aflented from by the Confcience, judging ac- 
cording to the g>ule of ($ods Word; fqr, a Sea- 

SSBftf 



«;•* 

*,♦. 



BOOK II. I 5%j ] CHAP. XXX 

tence of words may be fuggefted to the Phanta- 
fie, repeated and obtruded upon the Phantafie a 
thoufand times, which the Continence may and 
fliould refufe, and rejedi a thoufand times. We 
know by experience, that a Sentence of Words 
may by oft repeating in the Ears of a Parrec 
and other Birds, take fuqh an impreffion on the 
Phantafie of the Bird, that ir lhall repeat vocal* 
ly the words one by one, and pronounce them 
diftin&ly, as if that Sentence had been the 
work of its own invention: So alfo we fee, that 
by frequent repetition of any Whittle or Song, 
the Phantafie of fome Birds may be fo beaten 
and informed, that they fliall chant the fame 
Song over ahd over again, and make it as if ic 
were its own. Now Phantafie and Imaginarioa 
being a thing common to Man and Beaft, it is 
certain that the Phantafie of a Man may be 
wrought upon, and (lamped with the like Im* 
preffion.And this much as Experience teacheth us, 
doth befal Men:For when a certain Song or Tune 
is fung in our audience,and is often repeated,our 
Phantafie before we be aware, ufeth to repeat 
the fame Song or Tune, or quietly whifper the 
Notes and meafureof the Song or Tune.- And af- 
ter ourjudgment hath obfervedthis work of the 
Imagination,we can hardly ftay our Imagination 
or Phantafie,while we arc about other ferious 
Thoughts from its fecrct fowthing of the mca* 
fures, and Notes of the Song ; For, Phantafie 
■y]U not be ruled by the Laws of Reafon, more 

than 



BOOK II. T pS J CHAP. XXX. 

than the outward Senfe of Seeing can be hinde- 
red from obfervation of what it feeth, whether 
pleafantor difpleafant. What wonder is is then, 
that Satan who hath great influence on Mens I- 
magination, doth make fo deep impreflion on in 
by continual iteration, that the Affli&ed feems 
tohimfelf to own thofe Blafphemous Suggefti- 
ons as ln's own Thoughts, and as the Voice of 
his Confcience, and yet they are indeed nothing 
but Satans Whittling, and falfe Sentences prefled 
on the Man's Imagination > And put the Cafe, 
that his deluded Mind fliould take them for the 
juftly delerved Sentences of the Confcience,yec 
are they only the voice of rheConfcience ill in- 
formed, not judging of the Matter according to 
the Rule of God's Word, which doth not impute 
.Satans Suggeftions to the Soul afflidted by them, 
and mourning for them. And fo much for 
folving of the Doubts of the true Convert con- 
cerning hisftate in Grace and Regeneration* 



3THE 



[ 549 1 
THE 

THIRD BOOK 

CHAP. I. 

Concerning fome Trem'jfes. 

WE have handled fome Examples 
of thofeCafes of the Confcience 
of a Regenerat Man, wherein 
his State whether he be con- 
verted or not, is brought in queftion. Now fol- 
low fome Examples of thole Cafes which con- 
cern his Condition, In which Cafes, albeit the' 
flate of the Convert, be not at the firit brought 
in queftion, yet his Confcience may be deceive 
ed, and mifcarry for a time to his Detriment, 
Of which Cafes that we may fpeak the more 
clearly, fome Confiderations mult be premifed 
and taken along with us. 

i. A Man's State and his Condition fometime 
are taken in a larger Senle indifferently for the 
fame thing as when we fay, that all the Regene* 
W are in a blefled State or good Condition*, 

and 



BOOKnr, [ no ] chap, l 

and that all the Unrcgenerat are in a miferablo 
ftate, or in an evil condition : but when we puc 
difference betwixt thefe two in a more ftridfe 
Senfe, a Mans ftate is that relation of his Perfon 
wherein he ftandeth either as a Child in Grace, 
or as a Child oj Wrath. In which fenfe every 
Convert is faid to be in the State of Grace: And 
every Unregenerat Perfon is faid to be in the 
ftate of Wrath, judicially declared fuchin Scrips 
cure. 

But the condition of a Man in his prefent 
moral Difpofition in order to his exercifing of 
Vertue or Vice better or worfe. In which fenfe 
the Renewed Man, or true Convert, is faid to 
be in a good Condition, when he is going about 
the Duties of Religion andRighteoufnefs as be- 
cometh a renewed Man; and is faid to be in 
an ill condition when heisotherways difpo- 
fed, and cxercifed for the prefent. And in this 
fenfe an Unrenewed Man, is (aid to be in a better 
©r worfe condition for the prefent, in comparifon 
with other Unrenewed Men, or with himfelf at 
another time. In which fenfe, Mark, ix. 34. 
Chrift fpeaking to the Scribs who anfwered him 
in all things difcrcetly, faith. Then art not far 
from the Kingdom of Heaven. The condition for 
the prefent of this Scribe, was better than his Fel- 
lows, and better than his own at another time, 
and yet his Perfon was in the ftate of Wrath, 
beeaufeh^was not entered in the ftate of Grace, 
f 1 ja the Kingdom of Heaven, howfoever he 



800K1U 1*3* 1 CHAP V, 

was not far from it In this more ftridi: fenfi 
the judicial ftatc of the Mans Pcrfon is tixed 
r© long as the judicial Sentence of the Judg« 
^binding the unconverted to the Curfe that is 
pronounced in the Law, or in the Gofpel.loofing 
Irhe Converted from the curfe) doth ftand; 

But the moral Difpofition,and the Conditioti 
of the Man, whether in the (late of Grace or 
Nature, is variable and changeable to the bet- 
ter or worfe, in companion with others or him- 
felfat another time. Whence it is, that on© 
and the fameperfon may be in a better or worfe 
Condition, his ftate remaiaing the fame, to> 
wit, Good if he be renewed, and Evil if he be 
ftill in Nature unrenewed. 

2: But here wc are about the Condition of 
the renewed Man only, which may be better 
at one time, and worfe at another time, as his 
Dif^ofitioii and Carriage, in order to the Duties 
of ReligiQnand Righteoufoefs, falleth out tob« 
better or worfe, according as his Anions and 
Behaviour arc more or lets conform to the revea- 
led Will of God, and as his Confcicnce doth its 
Duty more or lefs commendably. Sometimes 
his Confcience upon gaod Grounds fpeakctli 
good to him, while he iludieth to walk before 
God unto all well- pleating, and then he may 
fay With the Ffolmiji, Pf. 16. ix.My \oot [land- 
tth in an even place, in the Congregation will I 
ilefs the Lord. 



BOOK lir. t 53* J CHAP. ) 

To this good condition we heed not fay much* I 
becaufe there is no preicnr Difeafb which calieth \ 
for Cure of this Cafe. Only it is for the Child 
of God in this Cafe neceflary to obferve Dyet 
and Exerciic tomantain his good condition, and 
to watch over his Heart and ways,that he may 
continue and go on therein. All that we have 
to deal with, is the ill Condition of the true 
Convert, when his Confcience doth deceive him, 
or doth not difcharge its Duty: For in this cafe^ 
only Remedy and cure is*called for. 

3. As that condition wherein the Convert ist 
beft pleafed with himfelf, is not always the 
beft; fo neither is that Condition wherewith 
he is worft pleafed, alwayes the word: Bucthac 
is the beft Condition, wherein the holy Spirit 
doth moft bear down the power of Sin, andad- 
vahce the work of .San&ification of the Man ; 
and that Condition is the worft, wherein Sin 
xnoft prevailed^ And as the Goodnefs of a 
Man'sCondition,is not to be eftimatby any even- 
tual Accident, but by its own Nature and pro-- 
per efie&s : So the Illnefs of a Mans Condift* 
on,is not to be eftimatby any eventual Accident, 
but by irs own Nature and proper Effects, as 
God in the Scripture giveth Grounds of Judg- 
ment of a good or ill Condition: For otherways, 
by the default of the renewed Man, the beft 
condition maydegenerat in a very illCondition. 
As when a Man doth abufedivine Confolations. 
and after receiving of the rsnewsd Earned of 



BOOK. III. [ 533 ] CttAP.f: 

the Inheritance from the holy Spirit,growcth car- 
nally fecure and negligent in his Duties, of 
when after foma gro(s pollution of hitfifelf in 
tody or Soul, having grieved the holy Spirit^ 
le doth not humble himfelf as became him, 
jut by Satans Suggeftion of wicked thoughts 
againft God and His former work in him, doth 
fall in fufpicion of all former gracious Operati- 
ons of the Holy -Spirit in him, and miPcalleth 
all thefe former experiences j and in his Tcn- 
tation efteemcth and narricth them,among Satana 
DelufK>ns,or elfe at lcaft fufpedtcth and fearctli 
they ihall prove no better than fuch. On the 
other h^nd, the worft Conditions of the renew- 
ed Man, by the Wifdom, Mercy and Power of 
God may be turned to advantage in order to 
Gods Glory, and the renewed Man's Salvation, 
as the Experience of the Pfalmtft doth fhew us, 
Pfal. n£. 3. 4. &c 

4. An evil Condition is fo called, either 1. 
in refpeft of the Evil Which the Convert noc 
only feelcch really, but laments it ferioufly; or, 
In re{pe& of the Converts eftimation only, 
who laments his good Condition without cauie; 
or, 3. in refpedt of a real Evil, which the Con- 
vert lamcnteth not at all, but lyeth under it fe- 
curcly.Ofthe Fir 8 fort is the Condition, ofths 
Convert when he fceth his own Blindncfs, Na- 
kednefs and Mifcry, the hardnefs of his own 
Heart and the Decdtfulncfs of it,- and doth fly 
f$F rqpedy thereof to Chrift t\\$ true Phyfician, 



I 



BOOK til. 1 534 1 CHAP. % 

to cover and cure all his difcafes.This Condition 
is evil only in refpedt of felt Evil, but in rc- 
ipe& cf the Converts making the right ufe of 
che Difcovcry of thefe Evils, and flying into 
Chriftfor relief therefrom; it is a good Conditi- 
on, becaufc the difeafed Convert carrieth him- 
felf well and wifely in this Exercifc. Of the &- 
tond fort is the Converts condition, when hisjw 
Faith is put to Trial by manifold Affii&ions and 
Tentations,and he conceives himfelf to be in a 
very evil Condition .• wherein he ought not to 
nfflidi himfelf, but to judge this Condition to 
be a good Condition, according to the Apoftles 
Exhortation, Jam. i. 2, 3. My Brethren^ count 
it all Joy, when ye fall in divers Tentations 9 know 
in^that the Trial of your Faith worketh Patience. 
Of the Third fort is the Condition of the Con- 
vert, who when (for Example,) he feels himfelf 
unapt and unable to Pray,or Praife or difcharge 
any duty heartily, doth not trouble himfelf 
with this his iil cafe, but cither layeth by the 
doing of the Duty , or dodi the Work negli- 
gently and prefuitorioufly, and pleafeth himfelf 
info doing for a time. This condition is evii> 
indeed, both in refpe&of his fpiritual Difeafes, 
and -of hisfinfui flighting the Duty of feeking re- 
lief thereof. 

5. For rectifying the Judgement of the Con- 
fidence in any or allof thofc Conditions, firffc 
Let Difference be put between the finful Difeafe? 
and Diiiemp^rsef our Spirit (which are evil 

5b 



1500K III. f sis 1 CHAP. !; 

indeed ) and the difcovery thereof unto us,. 
•vhich is a Benefit in it felf,and a Gift of Eye- 
>f alve beftowed by Chrift upon us.and the right 
a 7fe of that difcovery by flying untoChrift,whicIv 
5 yet a greater Blefflng, even the work of God 
Irawing us to th© Saviour of Souls the Remedy 
)f every Evil. Secondly, Jet difference be putbe- 
:wcen Tentation or Trial of Faith, and yeilding' 
oTcntation under Affliction. The observation 
:>f Tentation offered to make us depart from the 
Truth in Trial, is a matter of joy, butyeilding 
is a Sin,and matter of forrow indeed: thirdly Mz 
difference be put between grief of Mind, or Hca- 
xintfs iu Affliction, and Anguifh of Confzience for 
Sin committed; For a Man may have a grieved 
Mmd, and a quiet Conscience at one time. 
Fourthly -let difference be put between our finfnl 
Sicktiefs of Indifpofition to fpiritual Duties, for 
which we fliould be humbled^nd Gods difpen- 
fat ion for the time,partly chaftifing us with a lefs 
and more fparing meaiure of Ability for thefe 
Duties,and partly teaching us thereby to make 
better ufe of Chrifts Offices for pardon of Sin,for 
helping & healing out Infirmitios,than we have 
mzdz.Fifthlyfci difference be put between Gods 
part& Satan* \xkiz\Vorlds and corrupt Natures pzzt % 
and the part of the new Creature. God's part is c- 
vcr Wife.Holy Juft & Gracious,tcnding to bring 
HisChildren unto a good and better condition ; 
Satan, the Worlds and the Fiefli, or corrupt Na- 
*WJS P arr ; * s t0 Procure and hold 013, and 
hi 3 tnzks 



BOOK ni; [ 5-3^ 1 CHAP. K t 

make worte an evil Condition ; and the pare of j 
the new Creature, is variable, as it falls forth i 
in the Battle againft theF!efh,which lufts againft i.~ 
the Spirit, and it againft the Flefh ; fo that nei- 
ther of iberohave rhe Victory always, rill the 
WaretVe be enckd, and Grace be crowned with 
Glory, for and through Jefus Chrift our Lord, 
Thefe Differences being obferved, the Confci- 
ence n^y dilcern bctvveen a good or. evil Con* 
dition io much the better. 

6. One and the lame Convert may obferve irt 
fcimfclf, if not a!I,yet the vici/Titude of the mod 
notable Changes of a fpiritual Condition,as may 
be feen in forne, efpccially of his Miniftsrs, of 
whole Exercifcs he is to make ufe for theConto- 
lationof his affli&ed People; which Minifters- 
may fay with the Apoftle, z Cor. i. 6. Whether 
toe he Affiled, it is for your Conflation and Sal- 
vation, which is effectual in the enduring of the fame 
Sufferings, which we al/o fuffer ; or whether we be 
comforted, it is for your Ccnfolation and Salvation. 

j. Sundry Converts may be diverfejy difpo- 
fed and exercifed about the fame evil or fpiritual 
Diftafet For one, under the obfervation of his 
evil Cafe, may wreftle againft it, and not call 
his own blefled ftate in queilion; another, un- 
der the fame Difeafe, may fall in queftion and 
doubt, whether he who is in fuch a condi- 
tion, may be a true Ccavert or not, and his 
Perfon in the (tare of Giace or not ; yea one and 
feme Convert* ia the beginning of his ill Con- 
dition, 



* BOOK in, [ 5}7 1 CHAP. f. 

Edition, while he firft entcrcth in conflid with 
his evil Condition, may for a time Jook upon 
bimfclf as a true Convert, notwrthftanding of 
lis prefent ill Condition ; but afterward when 
he findeth his evil condition to remain, and oot 
likely to be removed, he may fall in doubt a- 
bout the fiate of his Pcrfon, whether, he be a 
true Convert or nor. In which cafe let hint 
make ufc as is faid in the former Book. 

8 TSe variety of Changes of the Conditions 
of the true Convert,arifcth from the variety of 
the Caufcs thereof; As for Example, 1. fometime 
in the Warefare between the flelh and the Spirit, 
the new Creature prevaileth, (bmetime corrupt 
Nature: and both of them prevail fometime 
more fometime lefs, whence viciffitude of Chan- 
ges of Condition cannot but follow.2.Sometime 
£atans Temptations, fetting on in his Affaults 
more or lefs furioufly,or more or lefs fubtilly, 
do makediverfity of Ccnditions,as Satan is more 
or lefs wifely refilled. 3.- Sometime tho Lord hi- 
deth His Countenance from His Child more or 
Iefc,fometime in Ad verfity Sometime in outward 
Prolperity,as His Wifdom findeth it meet for 
the welfare of His beloved Children. 

9. Sometime the Confidence doth difcern an 
evil Condition, and doth give forth a right Sen- 
tence about it.In which Cafe.lct ufebe made of 
the ordinar Remedy of Sin and Mifery.As 1. let 
ihe Afiluftcd fearch into the Caufes which 
• 

L 1 4 hay* 



SOCK III; [ 5-38 3 CHAP, l| 

1 ave procured his evil Condition,as the Lord af- 
ter Grayer fhall furnifli light. 2. Let him ao 
-k .owledge his Sin and ill Dcferving, and the 
1 or A '$ holy, wift and righteous Difpenfation. 
3. Lee him grew in Humiliation^ Diffidence of 
Ins owiWfdq^i,AbiIity ScRighteoufnefe. 4;Let 
him "renew the exercife of his Faith in Chrift 
for p -ron of £in,for mortifying the toots of it, 
and for kiting forth His helping Handler abili* 
IV to make him watch over his own Heart and 
ways, and to bring forth good Fftiits. 

10. When the Converts Confcience faileth iff 
right judging of its own ill Condition. 1. It 
cither takcth an ill condition to be good, (and 
in this Cafe it is filent and faith nothing,but tyv 
cth fecure and well pleafed without Caufe ) or, 
z. it judgeth a good Condition to be altogether 
bad, or at leaft not fo good as it is indeed ; or, 
3. It doth notdiftiriguifh a good or ill conditi- 
on fimply from a condition partly good and 
partly evil : or, 4. It (lands in doubt what 
to judge of the Mans condition being uncertain 
what to pronounce of it,ti!l light difpel the Mift 
and Confufion wherein it lyeth for the time, 
Lef us imlance fome Cafes and Examples in d* 
yery one of thefe four kinds. 



CHAP. 






*00K lit { y 39 ] CHAP. IL 

CHAP: II. 

Wherein is handled, the Cafe offuch as are fallen 
- from their Firfl Love, and are well pleajed it* 
this Cafe. 

THefirftRank fhall be of fomc G\fes,where- 
in the Confcicnce of the Convert is de- 
ceived, by judging the Man's evil Condition to 
be good enougf. 

k cometh to pa(s fundry times, that the re- 
newed Man feemeth both to himfelf and o- 
thers alfo, to go on in bringing forth external' 
Fruits of new Obedience, when in the mean' 
time his love to Chrift is much abated and 
cooled toward Him,in comparison of the ferven- 
cy which in his firftConverfion he had: Whence 
it com«th to pafs,that his works in his Calling 
are difcharged without that Eye and Affe&ion 
toward Chrift, which fometime he carried to- 
ward Him ; for, in the beginning of his Con- 
version, when Remiffion of Sins, Reconciliation 
WtthGod,&theblefled Change made in hisftate 
through Chrift, was green & frefh in his prefenc 
fenfe, how dear Chrift was unto him cannot be 
expreficd; but this Fervor oft-times doth cool, 
when his wonted Eftimation of Chrift is not en- 
tertained, as appeareth in the Galai'lAns, who ae 
their Converfion were carried iuch a meafur^of 
Love toward Chrift,that if it had been pofliblo 
they would have plucked out their own Eyes 8$ 
given them totheApoftlefWfor Chrifts Caute, 
6^.4.15^ and yet this Love did foon cool, both 

tou 



BOOK III { f 4 s J CHAP ifi 

toward Chrifl: and the Apoftle. It coaieth to 
paft alfo oft-times, that the renewed Man con- 
tenting himielf with the &eal of the holy Spi- 
rit, and the Confolation which once he felt, re- 
folveth to go on in the di(charge of Chriftian 
Duties in his Calling, and either doth not 6b- 
ferve this cooling of his Love |c^Ch rift, or lay- 
eth it not to Heart, but pleafctn himfelf in this 
condition, as fufficicnt to carry a converted Man 
to Heaven. And fo ufually three faults do con- 
curr in this £icknefs,The Firfl is a notable Defe- 
ction from aiming at the meafure felt in his firft 
Love at his Convcrfioa • For we fpeak not here 
of daily Diftempers which the Convert doth 
mark and mourn for, and is about to have heal- 
ed by bringing his Wounds unto Chrifl: to be • 
cured in the excrcife of Faith and Repentance 
daily. The Second is the notobferving of this de- 
cay of Love,or theMans ignorance of hisDuty to 
entertain Communion with Chrifl: in the fenfe 
of his dailySins,Wants & vvounds;for theremov- ' 
jng & curing whereof, Chrifl is to be loved daf* 
Jy no lefs than at the Man his firfl; Converfion* 
ThcThirJis, the Mans being well pleafed with 
this Condition fo long as his Convcrfation is 
blarnclels, whereof vye have an inftance in the 
Condition of the Epbefians, Rev. %. whofe La^ 
bour in the work of the Lord, zeal againfl: Hy- 
pocrites,Patience in Troubles for Chrifts caufe 
is commended by Chrifl* But Hereproveth 
4i^^ft,b$c^ djcjr bjilrfc their firft love, 

an4 



&OOK III. [ Mi ]■ CHAR If. 

and did not only come fiiort of the Meafure of 
their firft Love, but did not lay to Heart this 
Sin, did not repent it,or ukecourfe to have that 
Meafure recovered; thou h(i(l left, or laid down, 
thy firft love ,x\\ax is, i. thou haft remitted and 
come (hort of that meafure of Love which for- 
merly thou had. x. Thou haft not been dif- 
pleafed with thy felf in this thy Defection. 3. 
Thou haft laid afide the Care of recovering 
the meafure of thy former Love. This Condi- 
tion is very dangerous; asis manifeftin the ex- 
perience of the Galaiians 9 w\\o falling from their 
firft Love, didcaft thcmfelvcs open toSupcrfti^ 
tions and Errors, and in danger to fce cut off 
fromChrift,by their defection from the Faith of 
the Gofpcl once received. The Reafons for which 
we fay this Defection in Love is Dangercus,are 
three; The Firft is this, the great eft meafure of 
Love toChrift and rejoycjng in Him is lefs than 
HisExcellency and Merit at our hands doth de- 
ferve. If therefore -we (hall Aide from our Duty 
in aiming to holdup this meafure or Love to 
Him,which we have once attained, and ccafe to 
grow therein, (becaufe his new Mercies are dai- 
ly letten forth upon us from day to day,) in ef- 
fect, we judge our firft Love hath been too too 
vehement, and fo Chrift is lightly efteemed of, 
as if He were not ftili to be loved with a!l our 
1 Mind, Heart and Strength. The Next Reafon 
is this, when Love to Chrift, to His Ordinan- 
ces and San&ified ones, t^egiiineth to relent and 

cooi 



B O OK IIT. 1*4*1 CHAP. Iti 

cool, incontinent the externa! exercifes of Re* 
ligion and Righteoufnefe begin to fall fliort of 
this principal of Love, and to go on more and 
more ilowly, and fo peece and peece to decay: 
for, as when a Tree is fmitten in the Root, it 
may retain for a time green Leaves, but after a 
time it withers, and neither bearcth ripe Fruits 
nor Leaves : So alfo in the Exercife of Piety 
and Righteoufnefs, if Love toward God our 
Redeemer, and Dele&ation in His Service, and 
Obedience inwardly be diminifhed, it may rea- 
dily come to paft, that the very outward Works, 
yea and the Profefsion of Duties due to Chrift, 
be taken away alfo? and this is the judgment 
wherewith Chrift doth threaten Ephejus, I will 
come upon thee, and remove thy Candleflick out of 
his place except thou repent Rev, z. 5. The Third 
Reafon is, becaufe Chrift, Who is altoge- 
ther Lovely and Love it felF, the very Son 
of the Fathers Love, is a jealous God, and 
cannot long endure not to be met with Love 
from them to whom He hath manifefted His 
Love. ThereforeHe doth make haft to correct 
this flighting of His Lovs, and to manifeftHis 
Wrath againft thefe that ly ftill well pleafed 
with themfelves under this Condition, / will 
come unto thee quickly (faith He ) and remove thy 
Candleflick. Rev. z. 5V 

x. That the Contciencc of the true Convert, 
who is lying in this Conditioner is declining 
iijpm his fenge; msafujte of Love,may difcharge 

it* 



BOOK III. [ y 41 3 CHAP. If. 

its duty morceafily and fohdly,it isneedfultliac 
the Man,being convinced of his Fault, firft con- 
fider how reafonablc it is that he fhould return 
to his firft Lovc,or formerly felt meafure of it: 
For,thc forgivenefs of his nsanifoldSins.wherein 
he lay before his Converfion,for the tranflating 
of him from Darknefs to the glorious Light of 
Chrift's Kingdom, fhould never be forgotten;the 
Proof which he hath gotten by his Converfion, 
that Chrift hath loved him and given Himfelf 
for him,fhould be always called to Mind with 
hearty ASedion;the great need of Chrift where- 
in he ftandeth for renewed pardon of Sins, for 
furhilhing him with His Spirit to mortifie the 
Deeds of the Flefti, and to bring forth mora 
ripe and abundant Fruits of new obedience,, 
fliould bind him to abide and grow in his Love r 
Secondly, \zt him confidcr how ufeful and profi- 
table unto us,is frefli green and growing Love 
unto Him;for,love to Him makes us frequently 
to think of Him,frequently with delight to fpeak 
of Him,to feek after pore & more near-commu- 
nion withHim,to have ourConverfation withHirn 
in Hcaven,whereHe fits, at the right hand of the 
Father, & to live in Heaven where our Love is 5 
more then where we fojourn in thisWorld. Love 
makes us love what He loveth, & hate what He 
hateth;love fharpens our defires after God in 
Chrift,kindlcsand inlarges our Affe&ion toward 
Him,as the beginning of the 6yPfalmdo\hm%kQ 
W^9k 4«4 i£ $e Lwj ft|ii feem to 



at 

with- 



BOOK III. [ 544 ] CHAP. If; 

with-draw Himfclf, Love makes the true Con- 
vert follow hard after Him, Pfai 63. 8- Love 
makes bold to encounter all Difficulties and 
Troubles which may meet us in the courfc of 
following after Him ; much Water cannot quench 
Love ; in God's Service Love keeps a Man un- 
wearied, fttong and (tout againft his Enemies, 
in Suffering patient, inProfeffion fincere, in pur- 
fuiiag Duties conftant, in all Conditions fubmit 
five, and after evidencing of his AfFe&ion with 
the Pfalmi/l, (Pf 116.1 2.) to fay with the Came 
Pfalmi(t f What Jball I render to the Lord for all 
His Benefits toward me> Pf 116. 12. Thirdly, lot 
the Convert who is begun to cool in his Love 
to Chrifl, call to remembrance what a Felicity 
he felt when he entertained love to G1irift,whcri 
the loving Kindnefs of the Lord was better to 
him than his Life, and Sin was more formidable 
than Death, when God's Commandments were 
not grievous, but the joy of his Heart, when 
God's Word feafoned and fandified his bittereft 
Afflictions. Fourthly, let him confider at what 
& Lofs he is of many fpiritual comforts, whereof 
be hath deprived himfelf, and in how many Sins 
(of omiffion at lcaft) he hath fallen, fince his 
declining from his firft Love, and what Miferies 
he hath drawn upon his own Spirit at lead, if 
not alio temporal Ch'aftifements joined therewith: 
and after comparifon of his conditio"!* when*his 
Love was fervent, with hispreientCondition,fince 
ty$ ftU (torn his foretime- mealier e of Love, lee 






/ *OOK HL [ S4S L CHAP. IIL 

Ihim humble* himfelf before Chrift,& fly in unto 

ve His rich Grace, as a true Penitent, and let the 
Fear of Wrath, in cafe he fct not himfelf to re- 
cover what he hath loft, hold him up to his Du- 
ty : For this is the Remedy which Chrift Him- 
felf doth prefcribc, Rev. a. 5, 7* 

chap. m. 

Concerning the Converts finful conniving at, and to* 
lerating of, the Errors andtranfgreffions of others.- 

TH E Law of Love toward God and our 
Neighbour, lay cth aTye on us to procure 
and promove the Well fare and Good of all Men, 
according to our place and power, and to hinder 
the Piovocation of God, and Sins of our Neigh- 
bour, according to our place and power. And 
to this end the Lord hath (aid, Levit. 19.17 .Thou 
fbalt not hate thy Brother in thine Heart, thou fh alt 
in any wife rebuke thy Neighbour, and not fuffer 
fin upon him. Cains Anfwer to God, faying, Am 
my Brothers keeper \ doth not befecm the child 
of God : And yet fomc of the Lord's renewed 
children in fome cafes, do fecm to themfelves to 
have done their Duty fufficiently, if they for 
themfelves profefs theTruth,and do in their own. 
perfonal carriage,whac they conceive to be right, 
albeit they tolerat others to profefs, teach and 
pra&ife what is fal(e and dangerous, and perni- 
cious to themfelves and others. This fault may 
^M^^y^agiftacj an4 P^ors, Parent* 



BOOK.IIL f S4 6] CHAP.I^|! 

and Mafters of Families, Children and Ser- 
vants, but alfo be found in all and every one* 
who defend or excufe fuch an ungodly and 
dangerous Toleration, which may Provoke 
God to wrath, and infnate many in a courfe of B 
Sin, The Pretences.Excufes and Deceits, where- 
by Men delude thcmfelves in this Sin, are the 
fame which the Patrons of loofe and licentious; 
Toleration of every Error in Religion do make 
ufeof, to wit, that Mens Confciences muft be 
free in the Matter of Religion, and noways be. 
urged to ufc all means which may give them 
right information, and reftrain their Exprefsion 
and Pra<5hfe,which may infed, pervert orinfnare 
others among whom they live : For,fay they* 
God's People muft be a willing People,and God 
only is Lord of the Confcience : and a curbing 
of Mens Profelsion and Pra&ice, ferves not to 
make Men Religious, but Hypocrites alfo, and 
fuch like other pretences; but no Excufe of this 
fort can juftly hinder any, who is in "any place 
of Authority or Po\ver,or Relation tobea&ive, 
or concur to extinguilh the incendiary fire which 
may devour the Houfeof God, and Kingdom 
wherein they live: For whofoever have power 
©ver others, and do not put forth their power 
to curb and reprcfs thofe who lay a {tumbling 
Block before others, do not oniy not impede 
the growing Contagion and Infection of the 
Body wherein they live, but alfo in effect 
do countenance, prot^dt, and promove the 

fpread- 



500K Itt f 547 1 GHAP Ilf. 

jfpreadidg of the Contagion of Error and Wicked- 
Jacft which they do tolerat, yea and private Per- 
1 'oris who do not lament theSins of fuch as do de* 
, [troy thcmfelvcs and infed: others, and do hot 
nourn for the Sins of them alfo who fhould re- 
acts the Contagion, do make themfclves acccf- 
bry tothefc fpreading Evils. It is true, many 
Sxcufes might here be ailedgcd, which we leave 
o rhofc who haVe anfwered the Objections of 
jngodly Toleiation But the truth is, the fear 
)f worldly inconveniences oft-times doth mc*rei 
prevail for giving way to lic&ntious Toleration, 
hen the fear of Sin and Wrath of God dotli 
>revail for difcharging of Duty. 

This was the Sin of the Church of Pergamuf, 
vhich did not take order with, and reprefs the 
jeducers of the Lords people and their follow- 
ir within their jufisdidion,/^. z.14. i<$Jhave 
few things again]} tbee,becaufe thou halt there them 
hat hold the Doftrine of Balaam, who taught &a- 
ack to caft a tumbling block before the Qhildre4 
f Ifrael, to eat things facrificed to Idols, and to\ 
ornmit fornication. So haji thou alfo them that hold 
he Dotlrine of the Nicblaitans«$ which thing I 
ate. This was the Sin which Chriftdid repre- 
lend in the Church of Thyatria, Rev. z. id; 

have a few things againfltkee, becaufe thou fuf- 
*re(l that Woman Jefabel, which calleth her felf 

Propbetefs, to tesch and f educe My Servants to 
ornmit Fornkathn, and to eat things facrificed 
9 Idols. 



*, 



BOOK HI. I ? 4 8 J CHAP. III. 

a. For Remedy againft this Evil, i. Let us 
vcrfe our felves well in the Law of the Lord re- 
vealed in holy Scripture,that we may know well 
what arc the Duties which God requireth of e- 
very Man in his ftation, and what Vices He for* 
bids, left we miftake Vertue for a Vice, or Vice 
for a Vertue. z. Let us beware of rafli Centr- 
ing and licentious Carping at Mens Infirmi- 
ties, as the Apoftle James giverh Command- iL 
meat ; My brethren, le not many Maflers, knowing I ll 
that we (hall receive the greater Condemnation^ for ^ 
in many things we offend all. 3. Let us earneftly 
contend for the Faith which was once delivered '"■ 
to the Saints, Jude, V. 3. left Seducers draw a- 
way the Lord's People from the Truth of Chrift. 
4. Let every oneconfider his ftation, place and 
power given to him, and prudently go about 
the amending of other Mens Faults,and his own 
alfo : For othervvays, a good Duty may be mar- 
red in a Man's Hand, by imprudent managing 
thereof. 5. Let a Man rclblve to meet with 
Difficulties, in curbing falfe Dodtrine and (can- 
dalous Practices, and as a wife Warior to behave 
himfelf fo, as he may obtain the Promifes which 
Chrift hath promifed to the Victorious. Rev.z. 
17. 26, 27. For it is much better to difpleafe 
Man for his good and others, than to difpleafc 
Chrift, and make our (elves Partakers of other 
Mens Sin and Judgement, and the true Convert 
will cafiiy make the choice. 

CHAP. 



6 OK III. { 549 1 CHAP. y. 

CHAP. IV. 

Concerning the Cafe of the True Convert, falling d» 
jleep in carnal Security under guilt inefs offlefhly 
Pollutions, and dreaming himfelf to be in no ill 
Condition. 

^Ometime the Flelli fo far prevailed? againft 
3 die renewed work of the Spirit in Converts* 
iac not only they are overtaken in a Fault {Qal 
. i.) but alfo are, as it were, taken captive aind 
id avfay for a time by the Lulls of the Flefh, 
nd near-by recalled unto the Servitude of fome 
ricked Concupifcence : In which condition, it 
> potfible they ly deeping a long time, till God 
/aken them out of their deadly Lethargy. And 
his condition, alas ! is very oft to be found to 
he Diflionour of Chriftian Profeffion, in thefe 
hit have begun to live b!amelefly,and have fal- 
en back to the filthy Pudle of their old Conver- 
sion, whereby they draw upon thcmfelves and 
heir Families. Gad's Wrath and (adjudgements: 
)f this Difeafe we find there were not a few to 
>c found in Corinth, z Cor. i%. ^o t 2,1. 

2. The Caufes of this fearful Condition are 
nanifoid, and cannot eafily be condefcended u- 
>on : For many Defeats and wicked Motions of 
he Heart, do ufuatly concur with the neglect 
>f Duty, and comn>i(Hon of afbual Sins.a^nft 
he direction of the Confciencc, at Icaft with? 
>ut the Remorfeof Confcience and true Repcn- 
snce ; before this fearful Condition "fix it ielf 



BOOK III. { 550 ] CHAP, n* 
felf on a Man; and of this finful Sicknefe, there 
are fundry degrees. The Firtl is, when the 
Worfliip of Gad and Obedience of His Precepts 
is performed pcrfun£fc>rioufiy,as when theConfef- 
fion of Sui,is without forrow forSin,or rerriorfeof 
Sin in particulars; when Prayer is made without 
earned defire,to obtain the requeft;when deprecati- 
on of Wrath is made without fear of Danger;wher* 
Intercefilon is made without Sympathy and Bro- 
therly AfFe&ion; when Thanfgiving is offcrred 
without Estimation of the Benefit received;when 
finging of Pfalms is difcharged without Melody, 
and Harmony of the Heart, when Conference 
of holy Subje&s,is not entertained,or difcharged 
(lightly, and without reverence; when the hear- 
ing of the Word is without Attention of the 
Mind; when the reading of the Scripture is fol- 
lowed without Endeavour to Profit thereby, 
without the Obfervation of the Will and Provi- 
dence of God for Edification, when the profeffion 
of Religion is without Zeal and Fruits fuitable 
as occafion doth offer: whofoever doth reft well 
pieafed with himfelfin this cafe,he is overtaken 
by this Malady. 

The Second Degree is, when this Evil goeth 
further on, and doth defile the outward Man : 
asvvben the Tongue is not bridled, the Man 
doth not take heed what he fpeaketh, but lees i- 
die Speeches, profane and rotten Communica- 
tion fall out of his Mouth, which do not only 
mi fers unto Edifjearion.but aifo to corrupt the 
* - Hear- 



'hO OK. III. [ yyi CHAP. IV. 

learer.And he thar pleafes himfelf in this Ca(e> 
leclares his Religion vain in fo far, Jam. i.z6 

The Third Degree is, when this Evil break* 
orth in grievous fcandalous Pra&ices, as in th c 
>pen profeflion of fome Error,in making or fo- 
nentinga Schifm, in Contention, Emulation, Err 
y, Drunkennefs, Lacivioufnefs, Fornication, or 
uch like: for here dead works do openly ap- 
pear, and the Garment of ChriftianProfeffion is 
>penly defiled.This feemeth to be the condition 
^f many in the Church of Sardis, in whon be* 
'idethe Profeflion of Chriftian Religion, little 
piritual Life was to be found. And therefore 
Chrift the Searcher of Hearts calleth them dead 
or ready to die, Rev. 3. 1. z: Thou haft a Name 
>hat thou art living, hut thou art dead; or i n a 
deadly condition tending to Death certainly to 
Follow; if it be continued in from which condi- 
tion our Lord doth except fome, who had not 
defiled their garments,buftfo carryed themfelvess 
as their Converfation was anfwerable to their 
holy Profeflion, Ver. 4. 

That this deadly Sicknefs may be cured, x, 
it is neceflary that the Confcicuce e>f fueh a re- 
cure Sinner, be wakened both by others and by 
himfelf, and that by fetting his Sins before his 
Eyes, together with the Merit thereof, and 
the Wrath of God kindled againft him, and 
Deftrudtion at hand if he do noefpeedily repenfc 
fcisi. z. Heed mull be taken ef Satan's Wiles, 

Mm 3 wi 



$OGK III. [ 5S z ] CHAP. IV 

jhat the wakned and conyj&ed Sinner defpaii 
pot ; for in t\\if Cafe there is no fmall dangei 
pf it,when he who h^d given his Name to Chrifflft 
#ndenh himfelf to be in Satan's Camp and Service 
and wearing the Badge of Satan, in giving fc 
publickSccndal to the People of God. 3, What- 
loever (punk of Faith or Hope, or Repentance, 
pr defirc of returning tjntoGod, and fcfting him- 
felf againft all Sin hereafter, is found in fuch a 
jperfon, muft be entertained and foftered, Jefl 
fhap little fppnk be extipguiilied which is ready 
to dye. 4. Let him call to mind the Wprd of 
God, w ? hereby he wasfirft moved to turn unto 
pod, and to confecrat himfelf to the Service of 
Chrift, and let him compare his fometime bet- 
ter Convcrfation, with his Jate Pollutions, that 
jje may be alliamed, and haft himfelf in unto 
nearer Fellowship with God ? from Whom he hath 
fp filthily ^nd fearfully tnailq defe&ion. fc Lee 
him be upon his guard & watel} over his Heart, 
left he be over-taken again by the Tentati-* 
ons of Satan, his own corrupt Nature, and 
|he enripng Example of the World, \ ieft he 
perifti in h& Tranfgreflion, if he fhail a- 
^gain proToke the Lord. 6. And laft of all, let 
|lip let before himfelf the ample Promifes which: 
jCi^Hl hash, make to a vi&prious Wreftler of 
|itt$ki|j& flev. 3. y. He th$t over cometh the fame 
Jk$ljL be c\:^h«4:M white Rayment, and I -mil not 
jtht M4 %?$&^ out 9j ike gQt>k of Life, &c. 

i ml WM 



Y&OOK III. [ sr> } CHAP. V. 

CHAP. V, 

Concerning the Convert's pleafing himfelf in his. 

lukc'joarm condition. 
I 

WT cometh to pafs fometime$, that the true 
J^ Convert, being as he conceiveth fure of his 
3\vn Salvation, becometh negligent in the Mat- 
er of his San&ification,and Worfhipping of God 
n the Spirit, and turnctli himfelf about to his 
\p\vn eafe, and following of what he thinketh 
awful : For, becaufe he conceiveth he hath a 
lire Grip of ChrilVs Grace, and of the Gifts and 
f Benefits flowing from Him, To as he needs not 
now to vex himfelf in the Exercifes of Religion 
ij as fometime he did when he was not fure of his 
o Reconciliation with God : Therefore he judgeth 
[Jit fuificient, if he do follow the Exercifes of Re-, 
ligion more courfely, eihew grots fcandalous 
Outbreakings, do fome works of Alms and Cha- 
rity, as he hath occafion, and follow the Works 
of his Calling blamelefly, giving the reft of his 
time to be Ipent in worldly Cares, Eafe of his 
Flefh and lawful Recreations. In which condition 
he pleafeth himfelf very Well,asif he had attain- 
ed the way of Chriftian Felicity both in Soul 
and Body : For he miffeth nothing in Matters 
fpiritual and neceflary to Salvation, he is Rich 
and hath need of nothing. Whereupon he troub* 
Jeth not himfelf to grow in Salification, or to 
fet others on work, for adding one Vcrtuc ta 

M n\ 4 ano 



BOOK in. [ m ! CHAP. V. 

another, \fthey trouble not the Peace of the 
Church, or do not difgrace Religion by a fcarv 
dalous Life: If any Man in Chrifts matters, will 
be more earned then his Neighbours, he doth 
not find fault with it,but let him be as diligent 
as he plcafeth, for he refolyeth not to oppoie a- 
ny Man in ChrHt's fervice, nqrtoprcfs any Man 
to mend his pace in Chrifts way: and to fay the 
matter in a Word,heis aluke-warm Man, neither 
a real and feckful Friend to Chrift, fo long as 
he lyeth in this condition, nor yet an open Ad 
verfary of Chrift or His wayes. In this Sick- 
nefs readily do they fall, who after that the 
pains of their New Birth,and Difficultys in their 
Reconciliation arepaft, do impudently lay hold 
ppon their Liberation from the Terrors of the 
Law,and dream of fo fvveet reft in their Confer- 
ence flowing from the Gofpel (as if now their 
Enimies being all put to flight,and their Bonds 
wherewith they were bound, were all loofed, 
broken and laid afide ) they might compofe' 
themfelves to Security and Sleep, When indeed, 
they fliould ftand upon their Watch and upon 
their Guard, left fome other way the Enemy 1 
fliould fet upon them, and catch them in nevv 
f^res and Straits, as the Apoftle doth fore-warn- 
Ephef.6. 13.14. This w r as the condition where- 
in fome Converts in the Church of 'Lao Jkeq,Rev. 
3.i5.i9.were fallen:for albeit we do not think, 
that all thefe who are charged fopLuke-warnr: 
fab, were Regeneraf ; yct)ye cannot judge that 



BOOK ffl. [ 555 ] CHAP. V. 

all the Rcgenerat and true Converts, were 
free of this fickncfe, when we fee Chrift profcf- 
fing His Love to the lukewarm, and out of 
love diretfing His Reprooftoward them,whcrc- 
by He doth invite them to Repentance, and to 
return to chat fweet Communion with Himfelf, 
which they did not follow after, for the time. 
And to make it appear,that true Converts might 
fall in thisLuke-warmnefs,Hc giveth Warning to 
d all rhac have Ears to hear,to hearken unto what 
J the Spirit doth ipeak unto the Churches. 

As tor Remedy of this Sicknefs, this lethar- 
gy is hardly cured, except the Patient befirft 
caften in a Fever (as it were) by the wakening of 
I his Confciencc. To this end let the Luke- warm 
confider with himfelf,how the Majefty and ex- 
cellent worth ofChrifthath been lighted by this 
his Lake-warmnefs, wherein he hath by his 
fleflily Security made no account of the fpiritu- 
al Riches of Chrift,Who hath Redeemed his own 
from Sin and Wrath eyerlafting;, that they may 
with full benfalof Affe&ion ferve Him. 2. Lee 
him confider, how intolerable this Difpofition 
ofLuke-vyarmnefs is unto Chrift, Who prefer- 
reth the open Hoftility ot Aliens, to the Luke- 
warm condition of thofe whoprofefsfor Him, 
and hath declared He will not comport with 
them, but fpew them outof His Mouth, ex- 
cept they fliall fpeedily Repent. 3, Let him 
confider l\ow njany and fad Plagues of Heart 
lie lyeth under if He examine himfelf well; 

which 



BOOK HI. [ 5S 6 ] CHAP. VI. 

which may certify him of the Flame of God's 
Wrath ready to follow on the fmoak of begun 
fpiritual Plagues. 4. Let him be fpcedily hum- 
bled before the Lord for his vain gloriation of 
Self- perfections, and fuppofed need of nothing, 
when indeed he is Blind, Naked and Mifcrable. 
5. Let him lay hold on Chrift's Love and Care 
pf him in calling him to Repentance before fur- 
ther Wrath ihould break forth, and take the Of- 
fer of renewed and more intimate Communion 
with Him, and enjoying thefe precious Prdmifes, 
laid up for the vi&orious Wreftler againft this 
(inful Dilpofition : For this is the proper Reme- 
dy which the Great Phyfician prefcribeth for 
Healing this deadly Sicknefs, Rev. 3. 17, 18. 

C H A P. VI. 

Concerning fuck Converts as lean unto the Props of 
carnal Confidence, and pleafe themfehes in this 
Condkim.' . 

O Ft- times it comes to pafs, that true Con- 
Tcrts, while they conceive that they truft 
in Chrift only, are found to lean too much on 
their own Worth and Strength, and Graces be- 
llowed on them. In which condition,by fo much 
as they are well pleafed with themielves, they 
do in lb far difpleafeGod, and do provoke Him 
*oJeaIoufie,& they who arc mod overtaken with 
(his Sicknels, are mod fenfelefs of it, and are 
aipft malcontent, jito? any Map ftoqdd fufpeft 

them 



I BOOK HI. [ fS7 ] CHAP. VI. 

|hcm to be in an evil condition : Yea, and they 
conceive, that no Man is ab!c to convince them 
of Self confidcnce,and here they ly over tiiiGod 
bring them to Trial, wherein their Millake i$ 
made clear unto them. Their Tria! ordinarly 
cometh by fomc Affliction, by fomc powerful 
Tentation, and by fome degree of felt Defer: ion: 
for this Sicknefs, a-> it is contra&ed byProfpe- 
riry, (b it i$ foftered and hid by Profjjerity, till 
the Prop of their carnal Confidence be fhakeri 
by unexpe&edAdverfity. Of which purpofe,thac 
We may fpeak the more clearly ,we fhal! point forth 
two forts of this carnal Confidence,& fiiali flicw 
the difference of thefe two forts, by the diffe- 
rence of thefe two Pillars whereupon carnal Con- 
fidence is upholden. The One is the commorj 
Benefits, which God doth ordinarily bellow 
on Good snd Bad, Renewed and Unrenewed 
Perfons. The Other is, i'ome obfervable mea- 
fure of the Operations and Fruits of the holy 
Spirit. 

As for Confidence in the common Benefits 
of God, fometimes true Converts fall too much 
in love with earthly and temporal Benefits, do 
feek too much after them,embrace them greedr 
ly when they obtain them, rejoice too much 
while they enjoy them, fear too much tq lofs 
them, ana meantime do not perceive the excefs 
of their Affe&ion about them : and if they be 
eharged as in any meafure guilty In this cafe, 
fhey will not acknowledge their Fault, but go 

a- 



BOOK III. [ yy8 ] CHAP. VI. 

about to purge themfelvcs of this fore of failing 
faying,we know our Duty,that if Riches increafe 
we fhould not fct our Heart thereon, that we 
fliould not love too much our own Children, 
Parents, Parties, Friends and comfortable Re- 
lations, that we fhould not delight too much 
in profperity nor glory, in the common Gifts 
and EnducmentS of the Mind, wherein ungodly 
Men may excell, and go for above us; that we 
fhould not affe<9: too much the favour of Men, 
or efteem too much of being honoured of Men. 
They will alfo readily confefs,that they are not 
far from the danger of being drunk with Pro- 
fperity, and falling into the fleep of carnal Secu- 
rity, and leaning too much weight on this weak 
Pillar of Creature-confidence ; But for time by- 
pafj; they are ready to avert, they have been 
very cautious,left they fliould fall in this Fault, 
and for time to come that they hope to watch 
againft all Snares of this f ort, -and fo they think 
all is well ; but when it doth pleafe God in His 
wife difpenfation co change their outward con- 
dition, and to turn their external Profperity in 
Adverfity; when God takes away the comforta- 
ble benefits which He had bellowed on them, 
& brings upon them fame fad calamity,incontinenc 
they are in the dnmps, and fit down aftoni- 
fhed, they begin to call Gods love in queftion 
whereof they boafted before. Thus their Faith 
difcovereth its weaknefs, and the mixture* of 
carnal confidence with their Faith doth clearly 

ap« 



$00 K HI. [ SS9 ] sCHAR Yf. 

pear,wkich before did lurk as drofs doth in the 
Gold or Silver before it be purified, which doth 
give the Mafs a greater Bulk without greater 
Worth or Price. This Infirmity and Miftakc the 
Pfalmift did obferre in himfelf, Pfal. 30. 6. 7. 
In my Proj ferity 1 /aid, I fhall never he moved 
thou didft hide thy Face and 1 was troubled. This 
Infirmity of the Convert, and his Miftake, fhall 
be yet more manifeft, if we fhall compare the 
Confidence of the Convert in the promifes of 
God for Food and Raytiient fo long as God giv- 
oth Riches with their Confidence when their 
Means do fail and poverty cometh on. The 
Promifes of God remain the fame in the hav- 
ing and wanting of Riches, but there is a great 
ods between their Confidence to be furnifhed 
when they have Riches, and tkeir Confidence 
when Means do fail, which confidence now, 
is very feeble. Whereform doth this change 
come let us fee ? Certainly it cometh from the 
removing of the carnal Props of their Confi- 
dence^ when upon the failing of thefe Props & 
Pillars, Faith in the promife doth dagger, it is 
a fure evidence, that they have leaned too 
much weight on the Means, who mifbelievc 
when the means do fail. 

3. For curing of this fott of carnal Confidence, 
and leaning too much on temporal Benefits, let 
theConvert thus miftaken,afcer his experience felt 
that he h#h been carnally confident^ be dif- 



BOOK III. [ 560 J CHAR VI. 

couraged, as if his Confidence, which he feem* 
ed to have placed on God,were altogether vain, 
and in no degree fpintual : Bat let him firft, be 
humbled bsfore God, and fubmic himfelf t;o the 
Lords Rod ; let him acknowledge the Wifdom, 
Juftice and Mercy of God, Who hath removed 
this Prop of carnal Confidence, and reduced 
him from going aftray to depend more on God 
then he hath done, x, Let him ftrengtheri hiS 
Faith in Chrift, according. to the Tenor of the 
Covenant of Grace, and thatfo much the more, 
as he finds his own Unrighteoufnefs* in fol- 
lowing and Belying on Creature-comforts to 
have beea great. 3. Let him fet his Affe&ions 
upon things fpiritual, which are above the Earth, 
and to be found in Chrift Jefus,Wh'o is at the 
tight Hand of the Father, C0/.3, 1.2 3. and to loofe 
hisEftimation and AfFedionfrom thefe Things 
that are on the Earth. 4. Becaufe this Sicknefs 
is not well obierved, except in the time of Ad- 
terfity, let the afflided Perfon approve himfelf 
in the point of fincerity of adherence unto God, 
by histrufting in God now, when he vvantetli 
Means and Creature* comforrs, as Job did, wh© 
in this condition bieffed God for the giving of 
the Benefits,and blefled God at the removing of 
them from him, Job 1. 21. For, by fo doing, 
he fliali learn both to have and want and in eve- 
ry condition to be content, as the Apoftle was 
taught, ThiL 4, 12. and this is for the //y? fore 
0f carnal Confidence 

If 



K30K III. [ fa } CHAP. VI. 

The Other fort of carnal Confidence, is that 
which too much leaneth to fomc apparent mea- 
fure of the Operation and Fruits of the holy 
Spirit, obferved by the Convert in himfelf: And 
[his Sicknefs may be taken up and perceived 
chiefly by comparifon of the Converts ftronger 
Confidence of the Love of God toward him, fa 
ong as he can find evident figns of his Regene- 
leration, and work of the holy Spirit in him- 
elf, with his weaker confidence of the Love 
)f God toward him under the cloud of Deferti- 
on, or under fome powerful Temptation, when 
hefe evident Signs of hisConvcrfion are darken- 
d, or do not appear fo clearly unto himfelf as 
hey did before. In which cafe, his confidence 
s greatly weakened, and his Faith not a little 
haken with doubting. In both the one and the 
>ther Condition, the Covenant of Grace ftand- 
th fixed,and the Promifes of the Gofpel remain 
he fame, and the Convert (till adhereth to the 
?oven,antand claimetb intereft in Chrift, more 
>r lefs confident. Whence cometh then this dif- 
ference between his former Confidence which 
vas ftrong, and his weaker Confidence, now inr 
he change of his cafe, being brought lovy 2 
ertainly it proceedeth from the fmiting of the 
3 illar whereupon his former Confidence was coo 
nuch fixed ; for, whensoever the Mifl: is clear- 
d up, ana he findeth the livelinefs of the work, 
f Grace in himfelf, his Confidence convale- 
?c[h, and returns to its former ftrength, as it 

feem^ 



BOOK III. [ f 6*\ CHAP. VI, 

fecmcth to him; and when his Graces are dark- 
nfcd,hefalleth in a languifhing wcaknefs of Faith. 
This Sicknefs is fo frequently incident to the 
Saints,that few fiiail be found who are not again 
and again overtaken in it: For,how few are they 
who are not much more coafidcnt when they 
find a Heart freely poured forth in pr yer,wheii 
they enjoy the Peace of God in their Heart, when 
the Love of God is Ihed abroad in their Heart, 
when they find the Confolations of the holy Spi- 
rit, when they obferve the Fruits of the Holy Spi- 
rit in themfelves, when the Candle of the Lord 
flitneth in their Soul, and the tokens 6f God's 
Favour toward them are manifeft; and on the o- 
ther hand, when they find their Spiritual con- 
dition changed, whenDarknefs falleth on their 
Spirit,when they find themfelves unfit for Wor- 
fliip & unable todoService,but moft of all, when 
they perceive tokens of Fatherly wrath againft 
them fuper- added unto the forefaid/svils: in this 
Cafe,who is he,that befide the inevitable perturba- 
tion of mind incident to thofe who are ftrongeft in 
Faith, doth not find a diminution of his former 
confidence^ a conflid: with Temptations, Fears, 
Doubts and Difficulties? Which diminution and 
abating of his confidence in his tryals and in- 
ward cxercifes, doth evidently prove, that in 
his belt condition^ hath laid too much weight 
ijpori the mutable difpofition of hisSoul,and bach 
not fo ftucken to the Word of Geds grace 
through Jefus as became hirg* 

i. That 



BOOK III. [ ;rf 3 J CHAP. V!. 

z. That thisSicknefs may be the more eafily 
deared and cured, it is expedient to anfvver (ome 
Qucftions, which being difcu.Ted, may inform 
md cdifie the Affiidied. 

QucfllGYI I 

THefirft Qusftion which the Affli#ed may 
propound, is this, Seing rhe Signs of Gods 
favour manifefled in the beftowing and conti- 
:iuing of common Benefits and Gifts outward 
ind inward, do certainly ferve to confirm a 
Mans Faith in God, is it not very reafonable 
:o fay, that the Signs of Gods Wrath manifeft- 
id in the removing of thofeBenefits,do certainly 
irve to debilitate and weaken a Mans Faith ? 
Anf.i. Signs ofGods Favourand Signs of Gods 
SVrath arc not inconfiftent, bscaufe God can 
:arry Love and Favour to a Man, and be angry 
it him alio for the prcfent ill Difpofition where- 
in he is,for Love and fatherly Wrath, are not 
Dppofit and inconfiftent.but Love and hatred are; 
inconfiftent. z. Let be it granted,that any Signs 
tfbatfoever of Gods Favour may be made ufc 
af by the Convert foriftrengthening of his Faith, 
pet it muft not be gcanted,that the taking away 
D.f thofc Signs of Favour.fhould be madeufeof 
fOr weakening of a Mans Faith-.For many things 
nay encourage a Man to his Duty,which being 
•Qmo&d,muft not difcourage him.or juftly hin- 
icr him to do his Duty, 3. There is a great 
lifiercnce between the Man, who never found 
my other Sign pf God's Favour befide pro- 

N n tpc- 



BObK'ni. [ 564 3 CHAP, vr, 

fpertty in common bcncfits,and the Man who be- 
fide common Benefits, hath felt a work of Grace 
upon his Spirit, bringing him unto the fenfe oj 
Sin, and chafing him to Chrift, and making him 
to take on His Yoke. The Fir 8 fort of Men, car 
neither from the having nor wanting, or remo- 
val of common Benefits, conclude he is loved or 
hated; for fo are we taught, Ycclef 9, 1. 1. Ne 
Man hwvveth either Lcve or Hatred by all that is 
Before him % all things come alike to all, &c* But a 
Man of this fort hath reafon to judge, that the 
fending on him Adverfity, and wakening of him 
out of a fleflily and deadly Security, doth fpeak 
more of God's Favour to him, then higprofperi- 
ty did. And this other fort of Men, whohav© 
feit a work of fpecial Grace on their Hearts, 
may make ufe both of their Profpcrity and Ad- 
verfity for Confirmation of their Faith. 4. Puc 
the cafe that a Convert chafed unto Chrift in the 
fenfe of his S'\n 9 and refolvcd to bear Chrift's 
Yoke upon him, fhall find common benefits ta- 
ken back from him in fatherly Wrath; yet muft 
he not yeiid to the weakening of his Faith, but 
rather yet more humble himfelf in the fenfe of 
his Sins which have furred up Wrath againft him; 
and fly in to Chrift, and lay hold moreclofely 
upon His Grace, becaufc God being offended, 
U norpacifed norpleafed^ &YS only by flying 
in to Jefu$ Chrift. 



«g«! 



t BOOK IIL £ s6s 1 CHAP, VI, 

Quefi. IL 
&, "D Ut what will you fay Unto thorn, whofe 
J3 Confidence is weakened whether they 
will or not, whensoever they apprehend God an- 
gry tgainft them, and cfpecialiy when they reel 
io| that God, being provoked j u ftly ,remo veth Gifts 
d and Benefits comfortable from them * 

Anj. It is not to be doubted, that the Confix 
# dence of many true Converts is fhaken and wea* 
a kened in this Cafe : but the queftion is, what 
fliall be faid unto thsm? We aafwer, firfhhey 
ti muft acknowledge, that they have leaned toa 
much upon thefe carnal Props, the failing where* 
■of makctb them to fall. x. Leathern be humb- 
led yet more becaufe of fuch Sins as have provo- 
ked God to change His Difpenfation toward 
them. 3. Let them lean more upon the only 
Rock of free Grace injefus Chrift offered in the 
Gofpel,fot the comfort and relief of all thofe,whoi 
in the fenfc of Sin and Unworthinefs, in the fenfe 
of their ill deferving, and of any meafure of ap- 
parent fatherly wratb,that hereafter however it 
fare with them, they may rely upon JefusChrilli 
Who is the only Foundation to build our felves 
upon, and whofeG.race is fufficieat to help and 
uphold them,who have their recourfb unto Him 
in every condition, whether it be Ad verfity or 
Prosperity. 

Q&fi. III. 
(L» A Lbeit common Benefits are not fufficient 
i /\. Evidences of Gods Favour, yet new O* 



fcOOK.fll f 566 1 CHAP, vt 

bediencc of Faith &Fruics of rhcSpirit are fureSign^ 
ofGodsfpecial Favour bcftowe J only on the fi- 
led:: Seing then, as theie Signs when they arc 
prefent,ferve much for the ftrengthening of Faith 
fo alfo when they are amiffing, have as great 
force of reafon to debilitate Faith,yea feing Faith 
without Fruits is dead, may it not be concluded 
where no Fruits are, no Faith is? 

A*f. If the Queftion be of the univerfal want 
of all Fruits of Faith, fuch as is to be found in 
all unrenewed Men, whofe Fruit cannot be good 
(o long as the Tree is evil, whofe fceming Ser- 
vice cannot be acceptable, fo long as they re- 
main unreconciled to God through Chrift,let the 
Qucftion be ycilded unto. But we are fpeaking 
or the true Convert in whom there is a miffing 
of the meafure of formerly felt Fruits, and thac 
in the time prefent,whercin by fbme Temptati- 
on or TryaLtheir Faith is lifted and winnowed. 
And here indeed there is a vaft difference between 
them that were never humbled in the fenfe of 
their Sins,norled for relief from Sin and Mifery 
unto Jefus Chrift, and the true Convert, who 
hath renounced the Works of Darknefs, and 
hath fled unto Chrift,and confecrated himfclf to 
His Service>and who is fet upon a new courfe of 
Life, hath brought forth hew Fruits ofRepentance 
Faith,Love,and Hope,and hath felt Confolatioti 
in this courfe;and now under Exercife of Con- 
fcience, looketh upon himlelfas barren Ground 
doth lament his impotency to bring forth good 

Fruits 



n 



BO OK III. [$6 7 ] CHAP. VI. 

iTuits,and while he is under this Excrcifc, Iiveth 
in a fad Condition,blamelefs and free of fcandal* 
giving; great ods between this man,& a Man yet 
in Nature. We grant in the unrenewed Man,who 
is a (hanger to the Life of Grace and true God- 
linefs,the Sentence holds,N* Fruits t w Faiih\ but 
but as for the Convert,who hath had comfort in 
Chrift,and brought forth good Fruits in feme 
mcafure, he mud not reafon from his prefent 
diad Condition,felt and lamented barrennefs,to 
the denying of trueFaith inChrift,or to the wea- 
kening of his Faith,or marring his Confidence 
further then to acknowledge,he hach leaned too 
much on his formerly felt Fruits, and hath not 
grounded him (elf wholly onChrifl,and the Rock 
of free Grace inHim,but may and fliould mantain 
his Faith in Chrift againft his Difcourageraenr, 
that he may be enabled to bring forth more 
ripe and aboundant Fruits. 

QueA IV. 
CL 13 Ut what (hall befaid to humbled Con- 
J3 vercs, who looking to the holy Law of 
God, and finding no Fruits, fuch as fhould be, 
do pafs Sentence in the time of Tcntation, a- 
pon all their Works, as unworthy of the Name 
of the Fruits of the Spirit, and then do dis- 
pute againft their own Faith by the Apoftle's 
Words, Jam. z. zq. Faith without Works, is 
Dead. 

Anf. If the Confciencc do pronounce accord- 
ing to the Truth as the matter is indeed^ cannot 

be 



BOOK III, [ 568 1 CHAP. VI. 

be denicd,but Faith without works is dead, and 
God is greater then the Confciencc and knoweth 
all things: But when the Confcience is milled by 
a Tentation powerfully prefled in by Satan, in 
the time of fome fad AfRi&ion, and appearance 
of God's Difpleafure,the Tcftimony of the Con- 
fcience is not afufficient proof to inferfohard 
aConclufion: For,it cometh to pafs oft-times, 
that the Convert who liveth blamelefly,and en* 
tertaineth the Love and Purpofe of Well-doing 
in his Heart, followeth the Exercifes of Religi- 
on conftantly,is not negligent in his Calling,and 
is ready upon occafion offered to let forth the 
Fruits of love to his Neighbour, for all this 
fometimes waiketh in Darknefs and under De- 
fertion,fceth no Light, as Ifaiah, 50 10. In this 
cafe it may be,he fet all his Works at nought,as 
no ways anfwerable to the Lords Law. 1 fee no- 
thing (faith he) but Sin in me J fee no Fruit 
of true Faith in me, I feel no Operation 
of the Holy Spirit in me, fave the work 
of convincing me ofSin and Unrighteoufnefs. In 
this cafe we mud not give Credit to the Af- 
flicted, but convince him rather of his Error, 
and in fpecial of his leaning too much weight 
on his Works before this fad Exercife fell upon 
him;for,when a Convert maintained! his Faith in 
ChrifL only fo oft,and fo long as he findeth in 
himfclf the Fruits of new Obedience,but when he 
feath new experience of the power of the Body of 
•f Dfath,a»d findeth the eourfe of good behavi- 



BO O K. III. [ 5 6 9 ] CH A P. VI 

our, and bringing forth good Fruits to be inter- 
rupted in himfelf, incontinent he refiles from bis 
Confidence; fuch a Man certainly giveth evi* 
dence, that he hath relycd too much on his for- 
mer felt Righteoufnefs in himfelf: For he doth 
as if he durft not for Sin approach unto Chrift, 
'and fo he falleth in Peter's Cafe, who looking 
on his own Sinfulnefs, and the brightnefs of 
ChriiVa Godhead Ihining in a recent Miracie.cry- 
eth our t Luke$.$. Depart from me % Lord J am ajtn- 
ful Ma>r.For,Peter in this cafe did forget Chrift's 
Mediatory Office,and that he Hood Co much the 
more need of Chrifi/s drawing near to him,ashe 
was a man convincedof finfulncfs. Another anf 
wer we give to this que{iion,the afflided pcribn 
muft not think, that he wants altogether the 
Fruits of Faith, albeit he find them to be fliorc 
of the perfection which the Law doth require, 
albeit he find not the Fruits whenfoever he 
would exad them, albeit he find them not in 
that meafure as ha hath found them before .• 
For as Trees are not to be cfteeiticd dead or bar- 
ren, which bring forth Fruits in due feafon, al- 
beit they bear not fruit in Winter, fo Faith is not 
to be cftccmcd dead, which, as occafionis of- 
fered, bringcth forth the fruit, at onetime, of 
Mercy, at another time, of Jufiice and Equity, 
aaanother time, the evidence of zeal, at ano- 
ther time, of love, and other vertues, albeit 
when occafion or opportunity oSereth not, it 
doth not cxercifefuch and fuch Vertues;yea al- 

Nn 4 be» 



BOOKffl [ S7o ] CHAP. Vl't 
beit (ometimes when occafion calleth for the B 
videnong of fuch and fuch gracious Vertucs» 
the Convert be fometime found in-laking o 
fhort of doing Duty,or guilty of doing contrary 
to Duty, Faith muft not be counted dead for all 
thauBecaufe it may come to pafs,that Faith may k 
be fo wounded,and fall fick and languilh, and I 
fall in a Sound, that it cannot bring forth Frui{J 
till ic be recovered of its Sicknefs,as wc may fee 
in Jonah, David and Peter, whofe Faith fainted, 
but failed not alcogecher.-It is true,they fufpect- 
ed they were cut ofF& gone when they were in 
hard Exercife,but after that they did look up to 
the Mercy of God in Chrift,draw near unto Him 
& did fhew themfelves alive in the Lord,and to 
be in the ftate of Grace. Lafl: of all we anfwer, 
that of the humbled Soul of its Barrennefs and 
Short-coming of bringing forth Fruits as it 
\£ould,is no imall Evidence of Life and Senfe in 
the inward Man: And of fuch a Difpofition it 
may be faid ask is written, Cant. z. 13. fhe 
Figtree puteth forth its green Figs, and the 
Vines with the tender grape give a good jmell : For 
he that is fted to Chrift, and iaments hi§ Bar- 
rennefs, is a Lover of doing good Works, 
and of bringing forth the Fruits of the Gofpel. . 

Quell. V. 

g. T)Ut how can a Man mantain his Faith 

j3 in Chrift, who after Examination fin- 

deth no Evidence at all of his Converfion, and 

that all his lotmee Life hath been fpsnt in the 

un- 



JBOOjKHI. [ tfi 3 CHAP. Vr 
unfruitful courfe of corrupt Nature ; and the 
I Matter is fo indeed,he hath lived after the courie 
■ of this World, a Stranger to the life of God 
and Grace > 

Anf. Let fuch a Man's Examination and Sen- 
tence of himfelfftand, being according to the 
Truth:but this Sentence of himfelf,muft not hin- 
der him from believing in Chrift or from flying 
to Him for Refuge, for Remiflion of Sin, for 
Rcconciliation,and Furniture of Grace to bring 
forth better Fruits than he hath brought forth 
before; he hath proven againft himfelf.that in 
time bygone he hath notbeenaRegenerat Man, 
bath not been aBeliever inChrift,but he hath not 
cut off himfelf from flying to Chrift and believ- 
ing in Him for time to come:For, he muft put 
difference between thefe twoQueftions,*whether 
I have been of the number of Ancere Believers in 
Chrift heretofore?and whether I muft now fly to 
Chrift for time to come,that I may be found here- 
after, and henceforth a true Convert believing in 
Chrift > His former want of Good Fruits alto- 
gether,dqth prove him not to have been a Beli- 
ver in Chrift for time by-paft, which is the firft 
Queftion;& the fame want of al! good ftuitshere- 
toforc,doth anfwer theothcrQueftion,for his prc- 
fent Duty,& in time tocome,co vvir,that now ex- 
cept he will perifli, he muft fly to Chrift andj^ 
lieve in Him.In proving of this Aflerrion, that I 
have heretofore for fuch a fpace of time beer* 
a true Convert, I muft bring forth the Evi- 
dence 



book nr. [ 57* 1 CHAP VI 

' dence of my Faith by my Works, as ; the Apo- 
ftle James appointeth, fhevv me thy Faith by thy t 
Works % and I will Jhevv thee my Faith by my Works, 
but iii proving this other /iHrtion,to wit,I muft > 
now fly to Chrift while the offer is made to men 
of Reconciliation, left I perilh; it will fufficc to D 
produce,firft, my want of good Fruits, and next 
the Commandment of the Gofpel, charging me 
to fly to Chrift for Refuge in time, left 1 perifh ; 
And fo a Man muft maintain the way of believ- 
ing in Chrift Jefus for time to come, whether 
he find he hath been a fertile or a barren Branch 
in time by-gone or not. 

Queft. VI. 
0^ OEing the Apoftle (z ?et. i. io. ) com- 
fcj mands us to make our Calling and E- 
ledtion fure by Well-doing, how can it called 
carnal Confidence which in part doth lean upon 
good Works? For feeing AfTurance and Certain- 
ty of our effe&ual Calling is not attained un- 
to,but by reasoning from our good Works, that 
we are called crTc&ually, and are elected, how 
do not our works fupportthe afturance of Faith 
concerning our Calling and Ele&ion, and fo 
may be leaned unto. 

Aw? A Man may make ufc of his good 
Works for confirmation of his Faith,and yet not 
lean his Confidence upon hi* Works, but upon 
the Grace of God, Who hath called him of His 
free Grace, and m%de him embrace the offer of 
His free Grace, and giyen unto him botlua 

will 



UOOK III. [ 573 ) CH A p - Vf - 

vill and to do of His free Grace,and made him 
obc Gods W r orkmanfhip created of Gods free 
3race unto Good Works, vvhereinHe hath made 
lim to walk. Thus Grace is by God's Word 
Hid working cleared up to the Believer to reft: 
jpon, without laying too much weight upon the 
Ndan's work : but if a Man lay hold on Chrift: 
and His free Grace, only then, when he obfer- 
ireth in himfclf fuch and fuch Fruits of Faith, 
and loofeth or fiackech his Grips of Chrift 
when he feels Deadnels and Indifpofition 
co good Works, juftly we may call this a 
carnal confidence in his Works.- For when 
he ought, with Paul, Rom. 7. 24. 25". (o 
much the more to fly in to Chrift and His 
RighteOufnefs, as he findeth the body of Death 
powerful in him, and in-born S'm ftrong to 
hinder his obedience, he doth contrary ways 
abate of his Confidence, languiili and de- 
cay in his Faith, and look like a departer from 
Chrift, we mull fay, he putteth carnal con" 
fidence in his own Works. 

O&fr vir. 

Q± T)Ut feing it is impoffible to perfwade me 
J3 °f c ^ e Truth and Sincerity offaving 
FaitiV in me, except I do obferve in me, and 
can bring forth my good Works to prove the 
Reality of Faith in me; how is ic.poflible that I 
ftiould not lean weight on my good Works 
feing the proof of my Faith is by my works, 

wfeicl* 



BOOKffl. [574] CHAP. Vi 
which proof if / have not, / am ac a (land, 1 
cannot prove my felf to have been a true Belie 
ver in Chrift,/ cannot perf wade my felf that | 
hare been and am a ttue Believer in Chrift ? 

Anf 1. The Obfervation of the bruits o 
Faith in me is not the only Proof of my Believ- 
ing in Chrift; for the very ad of embracing thcE' 
Offer of Reconciliation made to me in the Go- 
fpcl,and flying unto Chrift for a Refuge,whcn i F 
am chafed by the Law, by theConfcience, and 
felt Wrath purfuing me for Sin, may be clear to 
me by its own Light and Scriptural Evidence, 
albeit (ic being poffibly the very inftant of my 
Converfion) / cannot produce any Fruits or E 
vidences of my Converfion paft ; or clfe whatl^ 
fhall be faid of Malefactors on the Scaffold pre-| 
fently to be put to Death, and poffibly not wa- 
kened inConfcience before, nor fled to Chrift 
before? What fhall be faid offickPerfons near un- 
to Death, who being Self- condemned, do betake 
themfelves in their laft Agony unto the Grace 
of God in Chrift offered to Self-condemned Sin- 
ners in the Gofpel?x. / muft put difference be- 
tween a Reafon to prove that / have believed, 
and a Rcafon why / may and muft now Believe*, 
The reaibn to prove that / have Believed, is 
from thceffedfc to prove the Caufe thereof to wir, 
Faith to be m mc:But the Reafon why / may 
iiow,and muft beiicve,is from the Caufe to infer 
the EfFedi that fhould be in me. The Caufe of 
Relieving in Chrift, is God's Command to Self* 



JOOK III. [ $75 1 CHAP. Vt 

condemned Sinners ; which Command I muft 
flow obey left 1 perifli, and fo if tkfind Fruits, 
I prove 1 hare Believed, becaufe I fell the Love 
;>f God flied abroad in my Heart,and*that I love 
3od Who hath freely loved me ; and herel rca- 
on from the Effe&, to prove that the Caufe of 
:his Fruit, to wit, Saving Faith, hath prcceeded 
ind is gone before. Again I prove that I fhould 
ielievc, becaufe the Offer of the Gofpel and of 
r rce Grace inChrift, made to all (elf-condemned 
berfons, renouncing Confidence in their own 
Worth or Works, is made to me, with a Com- 
mand to Believe in the Son of God,Chrift Jefus; 
or which Caufe, I may and pught to caft my 
elf upon His Grace who juftifieth the Ungod- 
y,flying to Him,wichout the Works of the Law. 
{. / muft put difference between my having Fruits 
)f Faith in me,and my obferving & finding thefc 
7 ruits in me .• For, a true Convert may havo 
>oth Faith and FruitS;and for the time^being un* 
ler Trial and Tcmpcation,may be fo darkened, 
hat he can fee nothing in himfelf but Sin, and 
ipparent Wrath purfuing him for Sin,as may be 
een in Jonah ,1.4. & David, Pf 51,9,10,4. 1 muft 
>ut difference between my Perfwafion, that I 
*ave been and am a true Convert and a fincerc 
Seliever,&my Perfwafion, that I have Right, 
teafon and good Warrand to Believe in Chrift: 
n my loweft Condition ; howfoever then 1 find 
ayfelf emptied of all Signs of fa ving Grace ia 
ic for the time* yet my Perfwafion, that 

I 



bookiu. Tjjtfi chap. vr. 

I fliould in this fad condition fly to Chrift and 
believe in Him, doth farvc to make me content 
heartily unto the Offer of the Covenant of Grade 
in Chrift, doth ferve to make way for my juto 
fication, and loofeth all Doubts and Obje&ions 
of Satan tempting me to miC believe, and to rur 
away fromCbrift and the offered Mercy in Him 
5. And laft ot ailj mull put difference betweef 
making ufc of good Fruits brought forth by me. 
far confirmation of my Faith, and my putting 
confidence in, or laying weight on, thefe good 
Fruits : For many true Converts do here fail, 
and do not mark theMiftakes ,- for when they 
find Love to God and His Saints, with Fear and 
holy Reverence, and fuch other like Signs ol 
Grace in their Hearts, and outward Fruits there- 
of in their Life, then they do believe inChrifl 
and rejoice in Him: But when at another time, 
they find Hardnefs of Heart, Profanity andPer- 
verfenete of a wicked Nature in themfelves.they 
are like to quite their Intereft in the Covenant 
of Grace,and to Sand aloof from Chrift like Stran- 
gers,when they ihould mod be humbled & creep 
in to Him for Rcmiftion of Stn,& hiding of tbeii 
Nakedaefs by His imputed Righteoufnefs. And 
what is this in effect elfe, than in the firft place 
to lean on their Works and holy Difpofition.a'i 
if there were Merit in them, and then after in the 
next place to believe in Chrift, who hath farm- 
ihed them thofe Fruits? whereas they lhou!d, 
in the fenfe ©f their Sin and Unworthinefs, firft, 



BOOK m. [ 577 1 CHAR V1T: 

fly toChrift, and firmly adhere to Him by Faith, 
that out of His Fulncfs they may receive Grace 
for Grace, according as we are taught to do by 
Chrift Himfclf, Job. 15. £ He that alideth inMe % 
and I in him, the fame bringeth forth much Fruit ■; for 
without Ale, you can Jo nothing. 

CHAR VII. 

Concerning the Cafe of the Convert in fome point of 
Dotlrine deluded, and pleapng himfelf in this 
condition. 

"Y^O (peak of Dclufion and Bewitching in the 
J general, requireth a large Treatife. It 
[hall fufficc our purpofc to fpeak of it,as it hath 
)lacc in the point of Do&rinc and Pradiice er- 
oneous : Which wc defcribe thus, Delufion is a 
Powerful Operation of a lying Spirit, whereby he oh- 
'rudes to Men fome not fome Error in Dotlrine or Pra- 
lice contrary to true Doflrine, fairded ever with 
^ophifiical Deceits, and doth perfwade inconfiderate 
)Ouls effectually to receive the Error for Truth ; and t 
defend and fpread it in their rafh Zeal: For Ex- 
plication of which Defcription, wc fay, i, Delu- 
on is a powerful Operation of a lying Spirit, where-- 
n Satan in God's Judgement is permitted to put 
Drth his power in Lying efFc&ually. Therefore 
i all his efle&ual Dclufions, there is a concur- 
ing righteous Judgement of God in loofmg Reins 
> tire Tempter, that by Dclufion,one Sin in one 
tegtze, may b* puruj^e4 by a £gljowing Sin in 

2 
1 



BOOK III. [578) CHAP. VB. 

a higher degree. No wonder therefore chat a ly- 
ing Spirit do work more efle&ually when he is 1 
not reftraincd by the powerful Hand of God. 2, I 
We fay, thatDelufion is in fome dangerous Error 
tending ro the Damage of the Church and Ha- |i 
zard of Souls. And this we fay not.as if we did * 
think, that any fin doth not daw with it, the I 
Merit of Death (for the Wages of every Sin is f 
Death) butbecaufe Satan is notfobufic,tofpred 
and foment fuch Errors, as are lefs perillous, as 
he is a&ivc in fuch Errors, which domofttend 
to pefler the Church and divert the Profeflbrs of 
Religion from the path way of Saving Do^rine. 
And to this purpofe heeflays all Means, that he 
may obfeure and darken the Truth, and devife 
and fpread abroad the mod pernicious Errors,. 
Mean time he is net idle in fowing and fpread-1 
ing leflcr Errors,that he may ftir up Contention I 
and jangling in the Church, whereby precious 
Time, which fhould be fpent for mutual Edifi- 
cation, may be idly wafted in needlefs difputes, , 
and Mens Minds may be prepared to receive; 
grofler Errors. Thirdly t we put fome difference"! 
between Errors in Do&rine and Errors in Pra- 
&ice,albeit there cannot be one Error in Pra&ice, 
whether it be in the external Worfhip or Go- 
vernment of the Church,or in outward Conver- 
fation, which being ftiffly maintained, hath not 
fome Error of Judgment and DodJrinc joined wich 
it. or clfe it iliould not be contrary to found 
Do&rine ; yet there may be an Error in Do- '• 

&rm$ 



JO OK III [ 579 ] CHAP. VI?. 
trine and Judgementof the Mind^ when inthe 
utward Practice the Error nr.y ly Hid ; and 
4en of contrary Judgement may confent and a- 
ree in the fame Pra&ice. Fourthly, weprcfup- 
ofe the Errors, whereof we are fpeaking, to 
e coloured and covered with fair Pretences, 
nd to be found deceitful Scphiflry: for other- 
7 ays a Difciple of Chriit could not be eafily 
ifnared, if the Error were Teen in its own co- 
rars, if it were demonftrat unto him with 
jund Reafon to be contrary to found Doctrine, 
nd pernicious to the Welfare of the Church, 
nd tc* Mens Souls : For in this Cafe, every in- 
enuous & honeft Mihd,\vo'uld keep off' from die 
.rror as from a deep Pit:But Satan fettcth forth 
'ieError,asif it wcrenoError,but mod confonanc 
-3 wholfome Dj5lrine f and profitable for Mens 
ouls and the Churches Good. And-by plau- 
ble Pretenfes.fets out thcError,fo2sit rmyfeeni 
Dvely and worthy to be defended, and fpread 
broad by all Means. Fifthly^ this Delufiott 
^e are lpcaking of, we prtfuppofe, that in the 
erfon deluded there is a Periwafiorr (ftrongcr 
hen any Probation which be hath) can fupport.-" 
"or here the EfRcacie of Error doth fpedallr 
ppear,whenthe lying Spiric.by probable Conje- 
iures,appearance of advantage SrSophifticaiDiP 
utation,doth perfwadcthe deludcdSotil^hat the 
-rror is as fureas is if by divine Oracle it were 
evaled& declared cobs a Trutb.Ho w this cinbe, 
fcbew Satan workvthr this Pocwafionifi is not tcf 
O • orur 



BOOK in. [ 580 ] CHAP. V 

our purpofe to make ^inquiry* For, lyir g Sp 
rirs have their own way, unknown to u< 
whereby they infinuat and fuggeft thei 
Errors unto Men. It may fufircc us that tt 
Scripture hath taught us, that Satan ea 
form Obje&ions againft our Faith, Ephef. 6. i<E 
11, 12, and throw them at us as fiery Dart 
and work ft-rong Perfvvafions in unliable or ig 
norant Souls* Such was the perfwafion of tt 
Galatians,\\hich the Apoftle ayoucheth to ha\ 
been procured not by God who had called thei 
Gal. j. 8, Sixthly, we prefuppofe in a powe 
ful Delufion a baftrad and milled Zeal 
making the deluded Man ardently to defend < 
promovc thcError which he hath embraced:Fo 
this is Satans main endeavour, when he hat 
leavened with Error one or moe in a Churcl 
to make all the ufe of them he can to leave 
the Church with the lame Error. 

And to the intent this Matter may be the mor 
ufefully fpoken of, three Qucftions mull be arl 
fwered fo briefly as may bcThcFirft Queftion it 
whether fuch a powerful Delufion may befal 
trueConverttWe anfwer it is poffible,and Experij 
cncQ proverb it: that its poflible, we learh frofj 
the Apoftle's Fear, x Cor. 1 1. }. I fear left ly :\ 
t/y means as the Serpent lecruiled Eve through hi 
Suhtility, fo your Minds fkould he corrupted for. 
the Simplicity which is in Chrifl. He was fearei 
alfo for the Colofians, left they fliould be deiud 
«d Col. a. 4, This I fay kjl my Man leguile yo 

m 



1 



r 



; !0 0K III [ J«* 1 CHAP. VII. 
nth intifing Words. And vcr. S.Beware left any 
'I Wanfpoil you through Philofophy and vain Deceit 
Vfter the Traditions of Men t after the Rudiments df 
* be World, and not after Qhrifl. Wherein 1c is 
"lear, that this fort of Delufion may befall the 
"hints. Now that it hath indeed and in expe- 
dience befallen fome true Converts,it is evident 
>y what Chrift faith to the Church of Thy afira, 
lev. 2. zo. I have a few thing* again/} thee, le~ 
aufe thou fujferefl that fVomanJczabd, which caU 
th her jelf a Prophetefs to teach and to f educe 
yty Servants to commit Fornications and to eat things 
tcrijiced to Idols. And the Apoftle flievvsthe Mat- 
er evidently to have befallen the Galatians, 
ral. J. I. Ofoolifh, or mad Galatians who hath 
ewitched you, that you fhouldnot obey the Truth > 
econdly, that ch;s Deiulion drew deep,andwaS 
l ery dangerous,appears,Ga/.i. 6,/warzW that yoii 
refofoon turned from Him that called you into the 
trace ofChrid unto another Gofpel,And, Gal 5. % 
hey were in danger to lofe all benefit ly Chrift ,and 
r er.^in danger and on the way to fall from Grace. 
Vtrdiy, the Galatians did err both in Do&rinfc 
nd Pra<$ice;in Do&rine, becaufe they fought to' 
)C Juftified by the Works of the Lzw f GaL ;,4«iai 
^ra&ice they erred,<jd/,4.iQ.iiJV obftrve daji 
nd Months , and T imes and Tears J am afraid if you, 
?/? / have bellowed upon you labour in iwVi.Fourth- 
y, their Error was fairded with the pretence 
>f the Truth, which made them greedily em- 
>ra& tiis Error: for, Gal. 4. % they crur/ed, 
Q& z thenr* 






BOOK III. [ ySi ] CHAP. V 

thcmfblvcs back to MofaicalRites and Cerenv. 
nies now Abo!iilicd,under the Pretenfe of fom 
time commanded Duries.And ver, %\. they dc 
fired to be under the Law„and fo run themfelv< 
under the curfe.f//r^/y,their Error was not by 
light Opinion held by them, but by a full Pc> 
fwafion wrought in thern,not by Chrift, but b 
a lying Sy\T\t,Gil.5%.Sixthlyxh\$hzfat& and ur 
hollowed Zeal was evidenced both in the fe 
ducing Teachers, and in the mifled Galatian: 
Gal.<\. 17, They zealoufly affett you % but not well 
yea they would exclude you that you might affel 
themx\\zx. is draw you away from the Society c 
Chrift and His true ApoftIes,that you might b 
their affe&ionat Difciples.And as for the Galati 
jw,deluded by Satan,by their means they tut 
ned their ardent Affc&ion toward the Apoftl 
almoft in hatred againft him, Gal 4, 15*. 16, At 
I hecome your Exemy becaufe I tell you the Truth I 
Hence it is clear, that true Converts are fub 1 
je& to this Evil, and ready to fall in itexcep 
they watch carefully, and earned ly deal wit! 
God to keep them from Deceivers : For man) 
young Converts are like Lambs and Sheep, ve- 
ry fimple,and beinglately turned unto the courfc 
of Holinefs.they are eafily taken with evety ap- 
pearance of Piety, whereof if they doapprehencj 
any teeming Signs in Seducers, theyfufpe<5t nc 
Guile in Wolves clad with Sheeps Skins,where- 
through they are overtaken unawares, and mo< 
ved to fcparat from the Society of the Saint? 

4 



11 



300K IH. [ 5S3 ] CHAP. VI!. 

jjy the flcfhly Authors of divifion,who by good 
V ords and fair Speeches deceive the Hearts of 
ic fimple, Rom. 16. 17. 18. 

Qjf.ejl. 2. As for the SVcWQueftion, what are 
le Eifeds and Marks of fuch a Delufion ? VVc 
pfwer, there is a Delufion adive wherein Sa- 
in and his Seducing /nflruments do fct tlicm- 
jlveson work to delude,and there is a paiiive 
)cIufion in the party deluded by Satan and his 
iflruments.The efTeds of theDcluding or Lying 
pirit, and the Marks of Delufion in the party 
eluded do concur; for, the Effeds of Satan's 
owerfu! Delufion do appear in the party delu- 
ed as Signs and Evidences of the effedual Dc- 
ifion : Thcfe EfTeds and Signs albeit they be 
uny, we fhall content our fclves to fpecific 
>meof them. 

The firftand chief EfFed and Sign of Delufi- 
n is t the rejeding of a point of true Dodrine, 
fld the avouching of a falfe Error contrary 
lereto.This we call the firftand principal Sign^ 

Mark of delufion ; becaufe except this Sign 

found, other Signs, albeit they point forth a 
rilous condition, yet without this Effed and 
ign be joined,thcy do not prove Delufion in the 
rid fenfe where in we take it here.This Sign 
1? Apoftlcdoth point at m x\\zGalatiav$fiaLyi. 
fooli/b Galatiansl who hath 'bewitched you, that you 
ould not obey the truth ? where he challenge 
h them for rejeding the Truth and Obecii- 
lencc unto it. 

O 3 Tfee 



L 

BOOK. III. r 584 1 CHAP. V [ 

The Second effbd and mark of Delufion,^ * 
baftard Perfwafion whereby the peifon delude -i 
layeth hold on a moid falfe Error,as if it were „,' 
tnqft(blidTruth J & without hink or doubt rcftsf j 
ponit,asifit were a Divine Truth. This fort ii ^ 
perfwafion we call a baftard and illigitimar pe y 
fwafionj i. Becaufe it is not wrought by tIL 
Spirit of Chrift: For which caufe the Apodl 
makes th?Grf/d/itf?/jr perfwafion not to be rig! 
and legitimat, Gal. j, 8. Secondly, becaufe thi 
perfwafion neither leans upon God's Wordrighl 
ly underftood, nor upon any firm reafon dedu 
ced reafonably from the Scripture.7i&/W/y,becaul j 
this Perfwafion of the deluded that his tenet 
true, is ftronger then his Perfwafion of man; 
Articles of his Faith, for which he hath cleg 
Scripture; and yet this Perfwafion of the delu 
ded is not fo flrong, when it cometh to Trial 
a$ weak Faith well grounded is, ,which wha 
the force of Tentation and Pejfecution cometh 
is more able to bear qut,then the deluded Man; 
Perfwafion vy herein he glprieth. Upon whicfc 
ground, the Apoftle doth not doubt but the G* 
latiatis, being true Converts lliall renounce this 
fa'fe Perfwafion, and return to the Truth whicfc 
tliey had forfaken, Laftofall, we call this a 
l^fiard perfwafion, becaufe it draweth its origi 
Pland firength, not from clearnefsofGods re- 
vealed Truth, but from the agreement which the 
•Jrro^ hath with fome carnal affe&ion, where- 
Wtothis Error doth fervice, for which refpeft, 



car« 



)tl, 

k 

fa 



OOK III. [ 5 $5 ] CHAR VII. 

Carnal and Corrupt Reafon is cafily drawn to 
lantain it pertinaciously. 
The Third cffed and fign of dclufion,i$, the 
, aufing Divifion and Schifme in the vifiblc 
Church necdlefly; and this effe# doth readily 
ow on the former two: For where Error in 
o&rine, and in the Rule of Pradhce, gcttctU 
pthe head; it falleth out inevitably, that the 
efenders of the Truth and fpreadcrs of the Er- 
or, (hall fall in Contention and Divifion; 
n which Cafe, the Apoftie doth exhort the Ro- 
an* t howfoever they Ihould pity the milled 
ultitude, yet carefully to mark the caufers of 
he Divifion, Fom.i6.ij J befeechyou Brethren, 
nark them which caufe Divifion and Offences contra- 
ry to the Dotlrine which ye have Learned. and avoid 
'hem; which prefuppofeth they deferve Excom- 
munication if they be obftinat. 

The Fourth Effect and Sign of Dclufion, is 
Foolilhncfs or a fort of Madnefs, which appear- 
sth partly in the Inconfiderat embracing of the 
jError, and partly in the defending and promot- 
ing of it: For if the Error in it felf be confidercd, 
it is a Falihood and Deceit: or if wc look to „ 
the hafty receiving of it, when no found proof 
Can be had of it, it is Fooiifhncfs ; or if wc 
confider the Damage which followeth the de~ 
'fending and fpreading of it, which the party 
deluded did not fore-fee and guard againft, it i5 
a Madnefs, and cannot but befo: For, a falfc 
Po&rine, albeit at firft it may carry the appea- 



m 

Kliei 

ct 



BOOK III. [ 5 $6) CHAP. Vrp 

rhncc of Piety and Prudence,yetwhen it is com 
pare d wirh Scripture and Rule of Right Reafo 
lei by the Scnpture,it is found nothing but Va 
rity. Fa ifliood, Cozening and Deceit, as the A 
poitle doth infmuat concerning the Errors whicl 
in Lis time wtrt fprouting forth in the Church 
O/'i. %}, which things have a /hew indeed of Wi) 
dvm in V Ui-uor [hi p and ] Humility, and neglecting o 
the Body, not in any Honour to the Satisfying of tk 
plefh.dut is.they are not worthy of any Eftim* 
tion, For they ferye on ! y tolatisfie fleflily Cor 
ruption of Nature.as he obferveth in the au- 
thors of Angel-worfhiping, of whom he aver* 
reth, that they intrude themf elves into thoje things 
which they have not feen % vainlypuft up by their fie jb< 
ly M'nu\.Co\, z. 18. And he calleth che Galatians 
Foolifb, or Mad,for their embracing of the Error 
CaL 3 i. and forhafty embracing of it .Gal. i. 
p. / marvel that you are jofoon removed from Htm 
that calleth you into the Grace of Chrtfl, unto ano-, 
ther Go/pel: for there are many who after much 
time fpent.and pains takcn,upon them by faith? 
ful P«ftors,donor come up to the underftanding 
of the Heads of the Doctrine held forth in the f 
Catechife.and Woofs given thereof by Scrip- 
Uire.and yet will very readily embrace an Error, 
and icern to themklves fo w«Il to underftand 
^t,and re be ah.e to i*-gue for defence of it;\vhofe 
Folly andMsdneis muy be fcen in this,3hat they 
do not ^:q nldcr the bitter fruits oftheir Error ; 
\$ m*k?. a Schifin in the Chruch they think 



(BOOK III. [ 587 1 CHAP. VII. 
nothing of it; to rent the BodyofChrift they 
care not forit:and for this very caufe.the Apo- 
ftle reproveth theC0/v////;/d//j,that falling in con- 
teft and contention among themfclves about the 
Excellency of their Teachers, they rent the 
Church the Body of Chrift,did defpife His Do- 
minion and Government,and gayeHis Glory ur> 
to Men,and did not regard the lamentable Con- 
fequfrices oftheSchifm; no not when they were 
admonifhed and rebuked by the wifer fort of 
their brethren, 1 Cor. 1. 11. and z Cor. 10. z: 

The Fifth Effe&and Sign of Delufion, is the 
Pride of thedeluded,and vain Gloriarion intheic 
Error : for the Corinthians gloried in Men,and 
made it a matter of Praife to themfelves to 
ihave fuch and fuchMen Heads of their Schifm, 
1. Cor. 3.11. and upon this Ground did defpife 
and contemn one another.And the Apoftle giv- 
cththis Markfof Schifmaticks and Sectaries, z 
tint 3. z. Men (faith he )Jhall he Lovers of their 
own f elves, Covetous BoaJlers t proud f &c. and the 
Followers of the falfe Prophetefs Jefahel f did dif- 
pife theOrthodox & ignorantDolts,uncapablc of 
the high Myfterics and Spiritualties of the Go- 
fpel, which indeed were nothing but the deeps of 
Satans Delufions, Rev. z. 14. 

The Sixth Effect or Sign of Delufion, is rafh, 
prepoftrous and baftard Zeal: This the Apoftle 
did mark in the mifbclievingjews. Rom. 10. z. 
They have a *eal of God, but not according t» 

know* 



.1 

: 



BOOK III. f 588 ] CHAP. VII. 

ifowwWg^ faith he. This prepofterous and tafh 
Zeal is far more fiery and hoc then true Zeal 
in die Godly t For,ths Error which the delud 
ed do ftrivc,is the native brood of Corrupt Na 
cure, & therefore it hath corrupt Reafon,& Affe- 
ction (tout for it, and no wonder that corrupt 
Nature be ftrong to defend and advance its own 
Birth. But true zeal is mucli more moderat;part- 
ly, becaufe it is carried on with Knowledge and 
Prudence, doth fear to offend God by yeilding 
to PafjTions, and hath to ftrivc againft corrupt 
Nature which cloggeth and hindereth every 
Grace in the Convert,and this amongft the reft. 
a. This propofterous and baftard Zeal, doth 
render the deluded perfon too pertinacious in the 
defence of theError wherewith he is overtaken, 
that rather then he will quite his Error, he will 
embrace another Error to mantain the former 
Error for which he doth contended this com- 
cth to pafs,partly by a fort of Neccffity,& partly 
by corrupt wilfulnefs. Partly ofNeceflity, I fiy, 
becaufe one abfurd Error being received draw- 
eth after it many other jgrrors: For, it is impofc 
iible to defend one Error in Religion, but by 
broaching and maintaining moe £rrors. I fay 
partly, by corrupt Wilfuinefs,becaufe when the 
deluded Perfon findeth himfelf in difpute intang* 
led;fo as he muft either renounce theEcror which 
he hath embraced,or receive and maintain ano- 
ther E*ror which followeththereQn, he chooftth 



W 



BOOK HI [ j*9] CHAP. V«. 

rather to embrace the Error which followcth u- 
pon hisfirft Error, wherein he was firft infhared, 
3-Holy Zeal loveth every Truth,yea loveth o- 
ther points of Truth,as much as it loveth that 
particular Dodtrine of Truth which difcovers 
the Error: neither will it fuffcr a Believer, for 
the defence of any point efDodfrine, to pafs 
from another Truth : but prepofterous and ba- 
ftard Zeal is contrair: for if many points of 
Truth come in comparrfon and competition 
with the Error which the deluded Man hath 
drunken in, he wilt miCrcgard them all rather 
thenforfake his Error, albeit he profefs other 
Truths to be more precious and neceflar then 
his erroneous Tenet. A proof of this we have 
in the Pharifees, who made the great things of 
the Law of none effe#,for upholding of their own 
Traditions,Mtf. 15.6: And the fame power of 
Delufion may be feen among /Vv/?j, who will 
not fo hotly purfue orpuniftifo feverely the 
breach of Godscommandments,as they do pur- 
fue and punifli the neglcdfc of Superftitious Ce- 
remonies.4. Prepofterous and baftard Zeal, is ve- 
ry bufie to fpread and propagat an Error, by all 
means venting falfe Do&rine, and fu.chMcnsj 
Speeches do fpread as a Gangrene Thn.z.iy^nd, 
a little Leaven of this kind is ready to leaven the 
whole lump: Gal. 5; 9. In which cafe Chrift air 
yertifed and exhorted His Ditciples to beware 
of the leaven of the Pharafees, whereby they were 
about to leaven the whole Church. And this furi- 
es 



tc 



BOOK III [ S90 ] CHAP. VII. 

ousZealas Experience hath taught,doth fpare no 
pains or labour to draw on moe & moe to the pro- 
feflionof the Zealot's Errors,as may be obferved 
in Pharafees who compalled Sea & Land to make 
Profelyts. Matth.z^. ij.j.This baftardZeal of de- 
luded Perfons,carrieth them to have reiped unto, 
& eftimation of,them that embrace their Error,& 
to feek Rcfpect and Eftimation from them who 
are overtaken with their Error.This was evident 
in theSchifm Qh\\zCorinthians,of whom fome did 
choofe to be called fuch Mens Difciples, other 
fome did choofe to be called the Difciples of a- 
notherMan & all did Glory in their Leaders, i Cor. 
3,5\2,i.And on the other hand,the Heads of the 
Shifindid glory in the Multitude and Excellency 
as they conceived of their Difciples.This the A- 
poftle obferved in- the Seducers of the Galatians, 
and in them that werefeduced by them, Gal. 4. 
17. They zealoujly affeil you but not well, yea they 
would exclude you (from communion with God 
and us His Apoftles) that you might affett them. 
tf.This baftard Zeal of the Deluded doth drive 
them to difdain and concemn all them who op- 
pugn their Error,yea and to hate them, as Ex- 
perience did (hew among rhe Gorinthians\iox fo 
foon as Schifmsdidarifein Corinth, Diflentions 
al(bdid arife,i Or. 3. 3. and i. Qor. 12. 20. and 
ofthisEvil the Apoftie doth complain, Gal. 4. 
1. 6. Am I become your enemy lecauje I tell you the 
Truths And this much may (erve for our purpofe 
concerning the Effects and Signs of Ddufion. 

Qseff. 



BOOK HI [ 59* 1 CHAP. VH. 

Quefl. 3. The Third Queftion is, What are the 
Caufes of Delufion? For anfwer, the Caufes are 
many and various ; for fome Caufes are princi- 
pal Caufes, fome fubfervient, fome meritorious 
Caufes, and fome promoving and helping for- 
ward of this Evil : All which Caufes and Inftru- 
ments, God doth fo over-rule in His Juftice, 
Power, and Wifdom, that He turneth all to His 
own Glory, and Welfare of His Church: This 
we learn ftomthc Apoftie. 1 Tim. 4. 1, i. Now 
(faith he) the Spirit fpeaketh exprefly, that in the 
latter times fome Jh all depart from the Faith, giv- 
ing heed t$ [educing Spirits, and Doftrines of De- 
vils, fpeakingLies in Hypocrify, having their Con- 
fcience feared with a hot Iron, forbidding to Marry ; 

I and to abfiain from Meats which God hath created 
to be received, &c. Where, firft, he foretells,thac 
there (hall be a departing from the Doctrine of 
the Apoftles, whereof he giveth an inftance of 
that which might fecm furtheft from fufpicioti 
of Delufion, to wit, a putting of a religious Rc- 
ftraint upon the ufe of things la wful in themfelves 
as Marriage and Meats. The Authors of this 
Delufion, 1. he points forth to be lying Spirits, 
and Men feduced by a lying Spirit. 4. The 
way of Seduction he foretells, fhall be by lyes 
fpoken in grofs Hypocrific. 3. Left any fhould 
wonder how this could come to pafs, chat any 
Man againft his Confciencc fhould daretofpeak 
lyes, he points at the Caufe procuring, to wic, 
th© Stupidity .at)4 Scnfekfsneft of the 

Cite 



BOOK III. [ 59 z ] CHAP. VII: 

Confcicncc, they have their Confidence feared 
with a hot Iron. And, 2 Cor. n. 14, 15, fpeak- 
ing of deluded Seducers of the People, Such are 
falfe Apoflks ( faith he ) deceitful Workers, tranj- 
forming themselves inxo the Apojlles of Qhrift. And 
iw marvel, for Sat an himf elf is transformed into an 
Angel of Light. Where among fundry ways of 
Deceiving, he points furth one of Satans Strata- 
gems, to tempt Men to make a {hew of Piety 
and counterfeit appearance of holy Zeal, and to 
pretend the Authority of God, to delude the 
Simple. By which Delufioa, wbofoever are en- 
fnared they are ready to put on the fame Coat ; 
for being deceived, they deceive others, pretend- 
ing Scripture, that they may fight againft Scrip- 
ture ; and pretending Holinefs and Piety, that-. 
they may hinder in others the true Exercifeof 
Holinefs. 

As to<the Caufes of ready embracing of Errors, 
1. there is propenfion abundant in the natural 
Corruption of the Heart to lay hold on any Er- 
ror offered, ]er. 17. 9. The Heart is deceitful a* 
hove all things, and defperatly wicked, who can know 
it ? Another Caule is pointed furth by Chriil, 
Mat. 21. 29. Tou err, not knowing the Scriptures >nor\ 
the Power of God. A third Caufe is the want of i 
Mortification ; for the Apoftle doth reckon Here- j 
fies and Schemes among the Works of the Flefh; 
and in particular, 1 Tm» 6 10, The love of Money: 
is the root of all Evil which while \ome have covet' 
ed after, they have erred from the Faith. And con- 
cerning 



|book III. [ 593 ] chap. vn. 

cerning the inftruments of delufion and divifion 
in the Church, the Sentence of the Holy Spirit 
doth Rand Cure: for He knoweth the Evils of the 
Heart pes fed ly, Rcm.i6.ii.They that are fuch, 
fervenof our Lord JefusChrifl, hut their own Belly; 
and by good Words and fair Speeches, they deceive 
theHtarts of the fmfle Of fuch Men jfude fpeak- 
cth, ver. 20. ?beje are Murmurers, Complainers^ 
walking after their own Lu/is, &c. 

As for paffivc Delufion in feduced People, the 
Apoftle prophefieth, a Tim. 4* 3. 4. The time 
will come when they will not endure found Doctrine, 
but after their cvon Lufls /hall they heap to themf elves 
Teachers, having itching Ears ; and they fb all tur» 
away their ears from the Truth, and fb all he turned 
unto Fables. In which words he holdeth forth 
the meritorious and adjuvant Caufes of paffive 
Delufion^foirLtf/fr.their turning away from found 
Dodfaine, their itching Ears, and defire to heat 
Flatterers, who by falfeDo&rinc may fofterthem: 
in their Lufts, and making choice of fuch Men 
to be their Paftors. From this fort of Teachers 
Chrift fore-warnethHisDifcipies to keep oflt t Mar. 
17. t$. Beware offalfe Prophets which come to yon 
in Sheeps eloathing, but inwardly they are ravening 
Wolves, ye . /hall how them hy their Fruits. Their 
outward Behavioar and Conversion will not 
decipher them, for they will feem innocent and 
harmlefs Lambs, bur their Dodrine which is the 
Fruits of their Teaching and the proper work 
ql the Mmiftcry, fljaU gad t])«n out .* But the 

raert- 



BOOK. III. [ 594 ) CHAP, ^li 

meritorious Caufc of this giving Men over to 
be deluded is plainly fct down, zThtjpz. io.n.l 
Bee dufe they received not the Loveoftlx Truth \tbat^ 
they might be Saved, for this caufe God Jhall fend 
them (Irong Delufion. This judgement,albeit % it pur-'; 
fues unto Death only the Reprobatjet whiles in 
fome degree for a time, it may overtake rhe fi- 
led and renewed Perfons, becaufe fome of theni 
fomenme are found to give way to their Lufts, 
and not to take heed to the Truth, which by 
Gods blefling might kill thefc Lufts; therefore 
God in His Juftice fuflfercth them to bo infe&ed 
with a contrary Error, and to eat the bitter 
bruits of their Folly, that being corre&ed they 
may Repcnt,and for ever fall out with their car- 
nal Lufts, and reje<ft the Error, whorcby they- 
were infected. Fox God in His Wifdom and. Ju- 
ftice, mod holily and powerfully, doth (b rule 
the whole ZTxercifc of his Eledl, that Truth {hail 
have no lofs, but be the more cleared, and no fi- 
led* Soul perifli, as Chrift giveth a(Turance,fpeak- 
ing of the Efficacie and Power ofDelufionby the 
Dodtrine of falfe chrifts,/T£tf. 24: 24. there fhali 
arife falfe Chrift s and falfe Prophets, and (hall fbeiv* 
great Signs and Wonders, in fo much that ( if it were 
pofible) they fh all deceive the very Elecl. This is 
al(b manifeft by what the Apoftle faith, 1 Cor. 
11. 18. 19. Where he declares that God hath 
decreed to permit Herefies to arife,that both the 
Truth oppugnedby the Herefie,and rhe true Con- 
verts,may be made the more manifeft :- For by 



[ S9S ] CHAR VII; 

lis means, the Lufts and VVickecihcls ofibme, 

brought to light, fbme arc chaftifcd,fbme Pc- 
fhjuftiy.fome have their Weaknefs and Folly 
jifcovered, by being tainted with Error foi a 
me, and in their recovery out of the Here e, 
le Grace and Power of God is made more evi- 
ent:md in thefe who fhall fuffcr for refufmg or 
Rifling Hercfie, God fhall make manifett ( foe 
;opping the Mouth of Satan and all Calumnia- 
orsj that truth is more precious to His fincer® 
hlciples, then Goods or Lands, or Liberty, oi 

tfe, or .whatsoever canbefal them inthismor- 
il Life for adhering to Truth; and of ihismany 
lartyrs are diffident proofs in all Ages. 

The Remedy of this fearful Condition. 

\ Lbeitthis Delufion drawcth the Rcprobai 
l\. when they are over-taken with it, unto 
ertain Perdition, as the Apoftle (i Theft v. 10. 
i.) exprcflydoth teach; and albeit this fearful 
Maguebe hardly curable.vvhenit falleth on the 
riecft-.partly by rzaibn of the deep Roots of car- 
al Lufts in them,which open the way unto Er- 
orrpartly by reaibnof thefubtileSophiftry ofSe- 
ucersAvhereby honed Souls are intangledrpardy 
>y reaibnof new Tentations • fuggefted againlfc 
eturning to the Truth whercfrom they are flid- 
!en; and partly, by reafon of the difficulty of 
oming forth from the Bonds of temporal 
udicial Hardrieis of Heart, whereby god haclt 



BOOK III [ 59 6 ] CHAP, ml 

chaftifedHis Child for harbouring fuch Lufts irj 
himfelfas made way for the Error, yec i he cur J 
of Delufvon is not defperat, for the Apoftle givj 
eth good hope of poflible and certain recoverj 
out of it: For Gal. 5. 10. 1 have confidence inyw\ 
(faith he to the infnared Galatians) through tht\ 
herd, that you will be no otherw#ys minded, bu\ 
he that troubieth you /hall bear his Judgement ,ivho\ 
foever he be. 

1. For preveemrrg and curing of this Evil,thd 
ApoQle commandeth Paftors to hold forth tc| 
all found Dodrine, to preach the Word and to be 
inflant upon all occa(jons, in feafon and out of feafon\ 
reprove, rebuke, exhort with all Long-fufferM 
and Doftrine, 1 Tim. 46. and 2 Tim. 4 .1. 2I 

x. Let the delttded perfon be difputed with] 
that by arguments drawn from Scripture he ma}j 
be convinced, as the Apoftle dealt with thofii 
who deny ed the Refurredion, 1 Cor. 15. ancj 
with thefe who fought to be juftified by works! 
among t'le Galatians. 

3. Let the Deluded be exhorted to examine j 
accurady his own Confcience, how he (landed 
affe&ed to his own carnal Wifdom and earthljj 
Lufts;for if he be proud in the conceit of hisowr 
Wifdom, Power or Holinefs.or any gift he had 
received or be led by the lull of rheEye,Lir. o 
the Flefli or Pride of Life, and come to God b) 
Prayer to lolve his Doubts, or to teach him th* 
irigbt way, he (hall receive fuch an Anfwer a? 
Balaam received,and iuch as the Lord threaten 

ed 



50 0K III f 597 ] CHAP. VIT. 

th to g\ve,Ezei 14% 3,4.&c, for he hath by his 
m{\s Deceived his own Conference, and made 
:a Flatterer of himlelf when it ihould have 
eeli a grave Counfel/or being well informed. 

4. Let the deluded Peribn be exhorted to be 
lumbiedforthe Sins which he granterh to be 
t him(cif,and fly to Chrift for Pardon, Pity and 
lelp againft hisovvn known Corruptions, mak- 
ig ufcof all ChrilVs Offices in the fenfc and 
cknowledgement of his (landing in need of the 
benefits thereof daily ; for if he do not repent 
inown Sins, but go on in them againft the light 
f his Confcience, how ilia! I he exped: that God 
lall give him light in his Doubts.or Errors* who 
laketh nou(e,or an ill iife,ofthe Light h'ehatb?. 
nd if he be in a coatfe of grieving the Spirit of 
le Lord,and make no ufe of the Grace that is 
ffered in Chrift, how is it poflible that he who 
oth not folio w Chrift, Ihould effiew to walkirf 
)arknefs ?' 

5. And laft of all Jet the Party deluded con- 
der how fro;n time to time, and moftcviderK- 
? in this time wherein We live,God hath puni- 
led the Lufts and finful Practices' of profeiTwd 
"br'illians, with giving them over to their own 
learts Lufts, and letting them not only walk 
a their ownCounfe!s,and in the Imaginations of 
leir own iil Hearts,but alfo in His Juftice,fend- 
ig to them rtrong Deiufions, and falfe Teacii- 
rs to authorize their Errors, and hold them oni 
1 die Way to Perdition. What wonder to fee 

j> p i &M 



BOOK TIT. f 59S 1 CHAP. VI] 1 ^ 

God for the light efteeming of Baptifm beftow 
ed on Men in their Infancy, and the not mak 
ingufe thereof for Mortification of Lulls, anc 
San&ification of Life by Fmh in Jefus Chrift 
to let loofe plianatick Anahaptifts, to teach Meill 
ro renounce their Baptfm ? What wonder to fe<y 
Mens loofc-liring in thcService of their fenfua 1C 
Lufts, puniflied with letting loofe Antichriftiar !1 
Ant'tmm'tans, who turning the Grace of God it ll 
Wantonnefs do avouch whatfoever they do, ii 
is no Sin, and that they are not bound tc 
keep the Law which Chrift profefleth He 
came not to diflblve, but by the contrary toc< 
ftabhlh it ? What wonder to fee Mens carnal 
Confidence in their own Wit, Worth, Strength 
and Ability, Works and Merits, puniflied with 
letting loofe lying Spirits to harden them io 
their Error ? And what wonder to fee God pu- 
nifliing the Abufc of the Gofpel, and refufing 
to receive the Truth in Love,with giving Men 
over to the Spirit of Antichrifl and ftrong delu-f 
fions. zThejf x. The Patrons and Propagators J 
of fuch Errors and Delufions are called by the 
Apoftle, Minifters of Satan and fa lfe Brethren, 
2Cpr.n.i6.Deceivers,i7/w4.i.& Men who were 
of old ordained to this Condemnation. From 
whofe contagion and punifhment, let every 
milled Soul pray to God to be delivered. 



; • ; * 

CHAP. 



( 




[ 599 1 CHAP. VIII. 

CHAP. VIII. 
oncerning the Converts Qonjciencc, mi flaking Vict 
for Vertue, and pie afi fig himfelf in this condition. > 

His Cafe diffireth from the Cafe of Delu- 
fion which wc have taken for Erring in 
icTmatter of Religion.whetherDo&rinc orWor- 
lip, pertaining to the firft Table of the Law ♦ 
ut this miftaking Conscience is in the practice 
r Duties of the Teconet Table, when the Dod> 
ne of the Duty is-cdnfefled.biit in pra&ife and I 
ihon, Vice is practiced under the notion and J 
retence of Vertue , and the Man is pleafed w T ith \ 
imfelf in fo doing. ; Whereof it ihail fuffice to 
ivc three Inftances. 

rThe Fir [I inffa*ce. 
He Firft Inftance wherein 7 a Convert may 
be for a. time Miftakcn, is, when a Man 
leafeth himfelf in nigardly parcimony, and 
arrow Scraping together of Money to the hin-- 
erance of fpintual Duties^ under pretence of 
.rugality and Diligence in his Calling, &c. 
thereby he perfwadeth himfelf, thathisPrac- 
ce isfo far from Sin,as it is rather commenda- 
jeand worthy to be imitat; for he conceivcth 
iac according to Gods Command he i* not 
t ow in the work of the Lord,buc fervent in Spl- 
it fcrving the Lord, Rom.i 2.1 1. that he is work- 
)g with his Hands that which is Good, Ephef 
..{8. that he is providing for the n£ceffity of his 
amily, for which if he ihould not provide, 
P p 3 he 



COOK III. [600] CHAP. Villi '' 

he ihould be \yorfe than an Infidel, i7/»i.5.8.If the 
Matter were found io to be alter Examination, 
true it is, Frugality, Diligence' in a lawful 
C - ing, %$A ProviAon for a Man's Family, arc 
coron^ u! .hie;- but here is the.Deceit of t|e 
U *m found, whe* Anxiety is found in (lead M 
ni-.-Jcrit Carefulrcis; when halting to be RicW 
is found, jn (lead cf mod erac Diligence in hiil 
C-tlli-.g; vvhen.lqve.,of Money and Avaricc'W^ 
fo$t*& \x\ fuad of h&neft Ptovifian for a Man%f i:> 
Family. We grant alfo, that-tfhis Miftake is noif w 
eafily difcer^d by Beholders, but yet the Goaf r 
verthimfelf, after Examination, may difcern ir, ' 
when he looketh upon the Eife&s. Signs, and 
concomitant Evils, fuch as are felt Impediments, 
and Hrnderance$ef a fpiritualDifpofition; For^ 
this Covctoufnefs of things earthly, whereof*! 
are fpeaking, doth mar the ftudy and endeavour 
for things Spiritual, and diminifheth the fear3L 
Sinmng in the matter of Gain, and taketh up the * 
time due for (pjrituai Exercife. in this cafe, car-'* 
natjoy in the getting Gain, is a Sign and Evi^i 
deqeq of a deceived Heart, and fo isalfo world- 
lyGrief for want of iucce(s,or for not getting c: 
peefkd & defired Gain.a proof of this Miftakin u 
TheCaufes of ans Evil, are the too great fea 
of Poverty, an over-high eftimation of Richc 
a diffidence of Gods Providence, a doubting 
Gods Promifes fo furnifhHis own with Food a 
Raiment. a».>d things necefTarv tor this temp 
ralUfe 1 Which. Diffidence Chrift doth expre- 

fly 



hooK nr. [ 601 ] chap. vm. 

: Jy discharge, Mat. 6. 24, z$* But for a Reme- 
iC7Jy of jJiisEvi], the pct(bn guilty cannot feck 
rafter, nor embrace it, fo long as he is not con- 
alinced of his fjnful condition : Wherefore, for 
tjlearing a Mans Mind in this point, let him exa- 
mine himfelf, whether in following Gain his 
Iv-aube oft- times furfetted & overcharged with 
ic Cares of this Life, and made frequently ia- 
ifpoied for Prayer and religious Exercifes, whe- 
ncr he be tcomuch taken with Gladnefs when 
ic gaineth, and Grief when he fuffereth lois and 
vorldly damage, whether he ufeth, for hope of 
jain, or fear of Life, to Ly and Flatter, or dare 
leal unjuflly in his Bargains, whether he findeth 
imfelf flow unto Exercifes of Religion, but 
ompt and ready for Secular Affairs ? Whether 
ic fpend the time heavily in religious Exercifes, 
md is weary of them, buc can pafs the tima 
>Ieafantly in the Affairs of this Life > If he find 
lirnfelf convinced by ilirewd Signs of this Evil, 
et him humble himfelf in Gods fight, fly untp 
Chrift for fattening his Bargain for Righteoufhefs 
and eternal Life through Chrift;fhen let him not 
caft off his Diligence in,& faithful Difcharge of 
his lawful Calling/out by a religious Difpofiti- 
pn of Mind, and obfervance of all religious Ex- 
ercifes fcafonably, temper and moderat his Dili- 
gence in Secular Affairs, and depend upon 
God more then he hath done for the fuccefs of 
his Labours.and take from God Lofs or Advan- 
tage as Eg givech ir, fo asHe may be found in 

P p 4 pro- 



: 



BOOK III [ 6ox |] chap, vimr 

Profperity and Adverfity fubmiffivc untoGoct 
and ready for the discharge of Charity andEquv a^ 
ty, as occafion fhali offer. Sjgc 

Mother InftavicG. 




Here is another Inftahce, wherein a Co 
vert may be miftaken, to wit, when 
plealcth himfelf in the profecution of pri 

-Wee Revenge^ that he may p*y home to fuc 
as have wronged him in the matter of his Credit 
and Reputations in his Goods,or bodily Harrii 
clone to him or his Friends \ For this Ungodly 
Difpofition he -may pretend poflibly, a care tii J 

- following retributive Juftice,wherein he may feem t 
to himfelf to come fhort, except he fliould watch 
for a Recompence* giving to the perfon injurious; 
he may poilibly pretend a dutiful refpedt to 
jvublick Peace and welfare of th& Common wealth 
of the Society wherein lie liveth,wherin he may 
fedfo to himfelf to come fhort if he fhould fuffer 

"the Perfon injurious to him to go away unpif- 

■ : ii'iih'ed;he may pretend aifo his own Safety and 
Security r or time to come.whereof he may feerti 
to himfelf carelefs except he makeirev!dent,rhat 
vvhoioever doth hi m Wrong (hail be made fenfibte 

5 of his Injury done;hc may pretend that theGlory 
p L God requireth fo much, that Sinsfliouldbe pu- 

■ niilied,the avenging whereof, if it fhould be dl- 
kyed longer then occafion of Revenge ihoiiid 
fjEprr, 91 Ciii jhe'Magiftrtt Should take -notice of 



BOOK III [ 601 ] CHAP.-V1H. 

jit, no punilhment fhould fall upon the injurious 
tat all; and laft of all, he may pretend the 
(good of the party injurcr, who by feeling the 
frnart of his wrong done may be led to Repen* 
tance,and made to learn by his fuffering the re- 
compence of his injury done, to carry himfelf 
rnorc equitably* coward his Neighbours in all 
jtime coming. All thefc pretences may bear 
i weight in the corrupt inclination of a Convert, 
and may harden him in his Sinful courfeoffeek* 
ing a private Revenge on the Perfbn who hath 
injured him. And his corrupt inclination may 
fae cbferved by himfelf, 1. by the furring of 
liis Pafliori and Wrath agaihft the injur'er, when- 
soever he doth fee the party Injurer, or call the 
. Injury to Mind. x. By Diffimularion and hid- 
ing from, all Men the ienfe he hath of the 
Wrong received, till he find an occafion offered 
tobe avenged on him. 3. Byaftop made in 
{lis own prayer for Remi/Iion of Sins, by his 
Conference telling him, he could not Subfcrive 
theCondition put in the- Prayer for Remiflion of 
J Sin by Chrift, which is forgive us our Sins, as we 
alfo forgive them that Sin againft us. 

The Caufes of this finful Condition are, 1. 
eorruptand unmodified carnal Self-love, with a 
too high eftimation of himfelf in Pride, which. 
maketh the Injury feem fo much greater as he 
hath a higher eftimation of himfelf. 2. A 
defect in his Christian Love,Meeknefs, Long- fuf- 
fering, Patience 2fnd Pity, which ilioald fe c 

their 



BO OK IFF. [ 604 ] CH A P. Vflf, 

their Excrcife fpccially in cafes of Provocation 
of our unmodified Affc&ions. 3. The ohiivioii , 
of the Commands ofGjd» an J of the manifold 
Sins daily committed agiinft Hm, whereof if 
there were a due efttmanon haU, the Fountain! 
and courfe of carnal Revenge fhould foon be 
ftoped, that private and carnal Revenge fhoulii. 
not break forth. 

When thefe Evils are found out and acknow- ' 
ledged by the Convert in himfelf, the main re-: 
medy thereof is in and by Chrirt.Who hath di- 
ed for us whc.fl we were His Enemies, Rom. 58. 
and for whole Caufe greater Sins agamlt Go>, 
arc daily forgiven to us, then are the injuries 
done unto us by Men.^.In this cafe aKo the grave 
Admonition of the Apoftlc fhould not be forgot 
ten, Fphef. 4. 16.2,7 Xet not tht Sun £0 down upo< 
your;wath;neither give place to tfa DeviliGwin^ 
usto underlhnd, that if Wratb^which draweth 
with it the. defire of Revenge, fliall lodge all 
Night with a Man., the Devil will lodge with 
it alfo.ftjrru* the Man up to purfue a Revenge 
Whenfoever iu iindccii opportunity. 

A Third znflanc e, 
A third inftaace of this poffible Miftake of 
f\^ a Convert may be found, when he pleat 
eth himfelf in his carriage too much for his own 
carnal Satisfaction in Meat, Drink, Apparel and 
Recreations, and here he may be haidened by 
iundry Pretences which he may have for his 



OOK flt [ 605 ] CHAP. vnr. 
cfs in the ufe of things other ways lawful. 

s. 1. that what he fpendeth upoii himfelf is 
of his own Means. %. That his Recreations 
(are lawful and allowed unco him of God. 3. 
That in all this he hath a care of his Health. 
4. That he doth riot fpend more upon himfelf 
then his rent antf ability may well bear. y.That 
God hath faid,bythc mouth of a wife King :Sac 
this courfe which he doth follow in allowing oa 
himfelf, is the Gift of God, Ecclef. 5-. 19. And 
Jaft of all, that^he might fcem y*\\\y a Nigard, 
if he did not well to himfelf when he is able fo 
to do ; and here are pretences abundant. But 
if a frer Examination of a Mans own felf, he (hall- 
find the aboundance of£arthly things weaken- 
ing his defire after things Sptritual,or (hall find 
the fenfe of his in-born Corruption laid, over to 
flcep in his Profperity,or (halt find his Flefli wax* 
i wanton againft the Spirit, and to prevail in the 
conflict: or (hall find his companion toward the 
Poor & Afflicled to grow cold, & his Delight hi 
things fpirirual much diminiffted, orfhali find 
too great a fhareand portion of bis time beftorfv 
ed upon his Body, and but little time bellowed 
upon the careof his Soul, a wakened Conference, 
may eafily conyince the Convert that Matters 
arenotfo right with him as hefuppofed. 

The Remedy of this Evil h not for a Man t& 
turn unto another extremity, and to a contra- 
ry Vice, as if there were no place for a wife 
Moderation, orasifatfomctimes a more a li- 
te 






BOOK III. [ 606 ] CHA P. VIII. 

beralufe of the Creature were not allowed unto 
Men, or as if a fpiritual Difpofition of a Man9 
Spirit,could not confift now and then with any 
Banquet or Feftivity: For, it is plain from 
.Scripture, that there is a time to /%aft f and a 
time to Faft,atime to Labour, and a time to bo 
Refre(hed,both in Body and Mind after Labour. 
In which Prudence, the Apoftle had not a little 
advanced, when he faith, Phil.q.iz. 13. / know 
loth how to he ahafed.and I know how to abound c- 
very where and in, all things I am inftruttcdi 
loth to he full and to he hungry , both to abound 
and fuffer need \ I can do all things through 
Chrift that (Irengthens me. But hare is the Re- 
medy, 1. That diftrufting our felves, and fear- 
ing chs Snares which Satan layeth for us 
in all things, we have pur Cpnv^rfation with 
Chrift, and fet out Affections on things which \ 
are above, as the Apoftle giv^th direction, r 
Col 3. 1. 2. Next, that we watch againft the 
Lufts of the Fle(h,Je& a* any time our Hearts 
be furfetted with Meat, or Drink, t or any thing 
which is pleafant to^he Fleih,Z^. , ii. 34. Rom. 
13. 14 For we. are not Debitors to the Flefli, to 
fulfil the Lufts thereof,&?>w.8. ix, bat are bound 
fo to care for our Bodies, foas our Souls 
have no lo(s thereby ; for, the Lofts of the Fleih 
do fight againft our Souls, 2 Pet. 2. 1 1. And to 
this end, let the Admonition of the Apoftle be 
wellremembred, 1. Cor. 7,29,30, 34:. This I fay. 
Brethren, thttimeislhrt. it r em aineth that both 

they 



BOOK. in. [607] CHAP. IX. 

: they who have Wives he as though they have none, 
41* J they that weep as though they weep not, and they 
that rejtyce as though they rejoyced not, and they 
that buy as though they puffed not, and they that 
fife this World as not abufing it: for the fafhion of 
this World paffeth away, 

Many more Jnftanccs might be given, but 
thefc may fuffice our purpofe, who mind only 
to givefometafte ofCafes of Confcience in tomo 
Examples, which may give Light unto other 
like Cafes as they fall in. 

CHAP. IX. 

Of the Cafe of Confcience, dealing treacheroufly 
under pretence of Liberty of Confcience. 

PRevarication or treacherous Dealing, is. 
ftri&Iy taken;\vhen for a Bud or Bribe the 
Confcience doth betray the Caufe which ic 
ihould defend: And it is borrowed from the un- 
faithful Advocate who for a Bribe doth (ell the 
Caufe which he pretends to defend, and give o- 
ver the plea of his Client, and falleth in to the 
adverfe Party.Such is the Man whofe AfFe&ioa 
to fome Luft and Worldly ad vantage.doth blind- 
fold his Confcience and moveth it to fpeak con- 
trary to its Duty, and mean time doth pretend 
he is only following the light of his Confcience, 
for whofe liberty he ought todifpute; the matter 
may be feen in an example or Inftance one or two? 
King ^/receives a Command from God to flay 



hO OK II!.- [ 608 3 CH A P. IX, f 

all the Amaltkits and deftroy them and their f 
Beafts; when it cometh to execution, Saul co^r 
ceiveth it fhall be for his Honour to fpare Agagf 
and referve him for a Triumph, and that it 
fhould be for his Advantage to fpare the fatteft * 
of the Cactel^ whereof the People might make ? 
ufe for Sacrifice; fo Advantage and Honour do (c 
follicithim. The Peoples confent who followed \ % 
him f helpeth on his Resolution to fpare Agagzad 
the fatteft of the Cartel: Fear to offend the Peo- 
ple whom he had drawn on to confent unto his 
Mind,concurreth to the giving forth his Decreet; 
contrary to Gods Command;and fo his Confci- 
ence being bribed,faileth againft the Command 
of God. In which Refolution and practice Saul ' 
doth pleafc himfelf. ' 

The like Treachery in Sdul falleth forth In 
the matter of the Gibeonltes. The Giheomtes pre- 
ferved from Jojhua's time, did grow in number 
to the detriment of thz/fraelhes as he conceived, 
the Oath of a Covenant fworn for (paring their 
Lives ftandeth up on the one hand to hinder 
him frorri flaying of thcrri, the Advantage which 
his kindly Subjects might have by killing them 
and poflc in ng their Lands and Goods,ftandcch 
up to intife him to kill them, on the other 
hand; Saul being taken with the Bait of Advan- 
tage and Honour from the people ollJraeU for 
whom he was zealous, inclineth hisC'onfcience 
to mifregard the Oath of the Covenant, partly 
fcecaufe it was given without God's Counfel 



jjOOKm [ 609 ] CHAP. IX- 

Jind Confent,yea contrary to his pofitive Com- 
Jriand, discharging a Covenant with the Qanaa- 
p/Vr/;parrly becaufe the Gibconitcs deceived Jo* 
*hua and the Eiders.and fained thcmfelves not to 
>e of the number of the Canaanitcs t hut Men of 
1 far country;part!y becaufe many Years had in- 
[crvcened between the day of ]ofhua i s Covenans 
ivith therrf & his time,& it feemed untoSaul very 
reasonable, that a rafh and unadvifed Oath 
hould beftill in force from Generation to Ge- 
neration;- and partly alfo becaufe the Form of 
:he Civil Government was now changed, where- 
by Saul conceiving himfclf not to be obiidged 
is fucceflbr to the Judges, but as King ordain- 
sd at GodsfpecialDircdion,asfreea Monarch as 
iny in the World,and not bound by the Oath of 
ithe rafh fwcaring Judges and Elders in }6jhuas 
time, doth treacheroufly feducc his own Con- 
ference, and falleth upon the off cutting of the 
Giliomtes by the Sword. How many arc they 
whoby fuch Intifements, having deceived their 
own Hearts, and for Worldly Gain or Glory, 
or for efhewing of Damage, doembrace Errors 
in Religion, and follow thatcourfe which moft 
fervcth tofatisfie their own Lulls, or is molt 
applauded unto them who are in power # 
From which fort ofTreacherous Dealing nothing 
can divert, and draw back the Man to Repen- 
tance, except the Lord partly by Difputation, 
and partly by Church Cenfures and civil Pu- 
nifhmenc$,(hali difcover unco them theirTreach- 

crous 



i 



BOOK m. r 6xo ] CHAP. IX 

erous Dealing in felling the Truth and betray 
ing their Cohfciencc for bafeends, and io bring, 1 
them to Repentance. # 

In this Cafe, fuch as are pretended Maintain- fc 
ers of Liberty of Confcience, but in effed Pa-fifc 
trons of licentious Living after their own.Lufts* ,k 
put in their Objections. 

i. Qbj. It is neceiTary for me, faith one, to da n 
what I do, and to think what I think; Icon-i 
ceive I have Reafon for me, and am perfwadecfc' 
that what I do and profefs is lawful, and that 
that is not lawful whereunto Cenfures and Pu- 1 
nifliments tend to draw me. 

Anf. What neceffity can be pretended for a 
deliberat Man's Actions and Profeffion, except 
a Moral Neceffity of doing Duty, and of not 
Sinning ? Natural Neceffity he cannot alledges I 
for the juftifying of deliberat finful Adtions; For 1 * 
if he pretend original Sin and native corrupt In- 
clination to fin, it is no Excufe for Sin, but a 
granting himfelf a Sinner by kind, by natural 
Inclination and Cuftom ; or, if he pretend aCi- 
vil Neceffity, it is either for hope of Gain, or 
fear of worldly Lots, and that is but a bafe 
Reafon to move a Man to do what is in it felf 
fmful. If Confcience be pretended, and that he 
cannot without Sin do what is againft his Con-, 
{cience, he rnuft know that a Confcience mif in- 
formed cannot warrant a fmful Tenet or Pra&ice* 
For except a Man renounce the Error which he 
bath embraced, both the Error is his Sin, and 






iOOK. III. [ 611 ] CHAP. IXj 
ic Profcflion and Practice according to the Er- 
:>r,doth make his Sin double;if he piercnd, that 
xcept he do as his Confcicnce ducth unto him, 
c fmeth,becaufcthe Confcience is the rule of a 
fans AdHoris.hcmuft know. that the ConfciencQ. 

* not the abfolute Rule of aMansA&ions.butthe 
^ord of God mutt be the Rule of his Conlucncc 
nd of his adtions alfo.BccSufe if he put his ton- 
:ienccin the place of Gods Word, and not in iub- 
;&ion and fubordination thereto, he mufljufti- 
e the Murtherers of the Martyres, of whom 
thrift giveth warning,that they who kill HisSer- 
ants ihall think (to Wit in their Contcience)that 
ley dounto God good fervice.5W.16.xIf he pie- 
:nd,that upon this ground Liberty ofConfcience 

• altogether de(lroyed,if Men living tindcrCivil 
nd Ecclefiaftick Govcrnment.rriuft renounce the 
-ight ofthcir Confcicnce and give obedience to 
lien's Commandments, hemuftknovv, that he 
smiftaken.and that the trueLibcrty of theCon- 
:ience ftandeth in the following Gods Word; 
t\d doing Service unto God. Neither doth 
Dund Dodrine ty any Man to renounce the 
liberty of his Confcicnce, but to renounce the 
■>ror which hath blinded him, and to re- 
lounce his Lufl: which hath opened the Door 
into the Error which hath milled him, led both 
ic pcrifh in his Sin, and the Society wherein he 
iverh beinfc&ed with the Error, and fall under 
he Wrath of God. If he pretend, that neither, the 
Villofa MaiyiOr his Confcience canbecompcl- 



bookiit; [6iz] chap, ix: 

led:For, the Nature of the Confcienceand Will* 
is to determine freely what the Man fhall do: 
and the Lords People muftbe a willing People, 
Tf no. 3. He mud know that albeit the Will ' 
and Conference cannot be compelled, yet the '! 
carnal Lulls which have feduced theCenfcience, ® 
may be eroded and curbed by Ecclefiaftick el 
Cenfures and civil Panifhments,that the Confci- 
ence and Will, being better informed, after the '•' 
ciifcovery of the Deceitfulnefs of their Lufts. 
which did miflead them, they may freely dif- 
claim the Error and their unhappy venting 
tliereof.lfhe pretend that God is the only Lord 
of the Confcience, and no Man may take upon 
him that power to prescribe unto, and com- 
mand another Man's Confciencejet him knowf 
that God indeed is the only Lord of the Con 
fcience,and bccauteHe is Lord, therefore hath He 
appointed His MinifterstoteachMen the Truth, 
and to prefs the difobedient Members of the i 
viable Church with Cenfures,a*)d hath put the 
Sword in Magiftratcs Hand to fee HisWill done, 
and to punifh fuch asrefufe togive obedience to 
His Commands, that Co obedience may be pro^ 
cured *o God the only Lord of the Confcience 
]n w s Ht€h cafe aibeit the A&s commanded by the 
Will and Confcience are curbed and retrained 
yet the Will and Confcience is not compelled, 
but is brought to a better Determination of its 
own elide afts, that having obtained a clearet 
light about itsduiy,ic may command the outward 



I 



II 



1: 



BOOK III [ 613 ] CHAP. DC- 

Man to fay and do what is right. If he pretend, 
that Religion is not to be propagat and pre's'd 
by Abrce.but by the Word preached, and Here- 
fics are to be rooted out, not by the Sword but 
by the Power. of Truth holden forth totbeHc- 
retick, let him know that there is a difference 
between propagation of Religion among Pagans, 
or People hot under the charge of the Civil 
Magiftratc,or Church Judicatores,and the preser- 
vation or purgation of Religion among them 
that are within the vifible Church, and under 
the power of the Civil Magiftrat. 

For albeit the only way, to bring Religion in 
irequeft among Heathen Nations and Strangers to 
the Covenant of promifes, be that way which. 
'1 the Apofties did foIlo\v,preaching the Gofpelto 
;all, and receiving fuch as embraced the Gofpel 
iinco Church-fellowfliip, yet the Magiftrat hav- 
ing Civil Dominion over Heathen Idolaters,may 
after information of them by the Preachers of 
the Gofpel brake their Alois and abohfh them, 
and reftrain them from doing contempt unto the 
trueReligion,or abufing of the Sabbath, as the 
•Fourth Command of the Moral Law doth give 
warrant; yea, and may compel thevn to ufe the 
•Means whereby they may bs inftruficJ in the 
true Religion. Again, let him know there is a dif- 
ference between dealing with Pagans and (han- 
kers from the Commonwealth oi Ifiael, and 
dealing with thefe who have given up theic 
{James to Cbrift,lia? e entered in Covenant with , 

Oil * God 



BOOK III [ 614 ] CHAP, foe. 

Gad, and by Baptifm have confcrrat rliemfelves 
and theirChildrenunto the Faith, Worftnp and O- 
bedience of God,and doprc r cfs thcChriftian Re- 
ligion,and yet go abouc by their Errors and PraM 1 
dices to corruptand over-turn the true Religion^ 
and Faith of others among whom they live: Forjn 
fuch may and fhould be not only inftrucled by I 
Sermon. Conference and Difpute,but alfo punilh-L' 
ed by the Civil Magiftrat for their deceiving of i: 
the people, and troubling the Flocks of Chnft.i 
Dwf.13 and Rom.i j.lf he pretend, that Church- \ 
cenfures&civilPuniihments canferve fornothinglr 
but to make Men Diflemblers and Hypocrites ink 
tht matter of Religion, which is moll odious in 
the fight of God and wife Men, let him know,that 
every Hypocrite lliall bear his own iniquity: Ec- 
elefiaftick Centures and Civil Punifhments con- 
cern the Words and Deeds of the outward Man, 
that they may be ordered foas Religion and the 
Peace of the Kingdom may not fuffer detriment. 
If any Man fay and do that which is right inHy- 
pocrify &Diffimulation,the Society wherein he IS 
veth rs fafe ; but for his Hypocrifie.Iet the DifTemb- 
ler anfwer Co God for it. And yet it is not to be 
p-refumed.that all who bv Cenfures, and fear of 
civil Punififimcnts doforfake Error and embrace 
Truth,are Difiemblers and Hypocrites hi (b do- 
ing,becaufe they are Means appointed of God foe 
curbing and reclaiming erroneous Perfons. where- 
with He givethHisBlefiing when it p'eaferhHim; 
For by Cenfures and civil Puniihrnents, the Al- 



BOOK IN. [ 6is J CHAR IX. 

!luremcnts which have cnduced them to Error,ar£ 
:uc otf,fuch as are Applaufe of Men, vain Glory* 
iVorldlyAdvantage,fenfual pieafure,and fuch like* 
therein the Erroneous have been taken as in a;i 
evil N:t,which being broken, the enfnared Cap- 
tive may come freely ofT his Error, and embrace 
die Truth, and take in good pa»c the Cenfures 
ind civil punilliment which drew him out of the 
Snare unto the right way:As we arc allured by 
the Prophcfie of Zecharzah t chap 13.6. An J off e 
(ball fay (to wit the converted ie&ary ) what are 
*hefe wounds in thine hands ? Then he Jhall anfwer, 
ihoCcw/fh which I was wounded in the houfc of my 
fiends But whether by thofe means the errone- 
ous be reclaimed heartily or in Diffimulation.re- 
rped: muft be had to Gods Commands and His 
Peoples Good, by curbing of Vice and Error,ac- 
rording as God hath given power to the Church 
md to the civil Msgiftrate./iW/. 13.3. 4. who is 
appointed theMinif/er of God for the Peoples good. 

If he fhall ohjed:, that he who chargeth him 
for his Error, is no lefs fubje<3: to Error, rhen 
le whom he chargeth, yea, that GovernourS 
Ecclefiaftick and Civil arc no more exeemed 
from the danger of Erring, than privat perfons, 
fea, that the Determinations of Synods and 
Councils are not lnfallible,yea,that he is perfwa- 
led the Error he is charged of, is no Error, hue 
jot perfwaded of the truth which the reformers 
lfb,im pretend unto. Le* him know that £ke 

force 



BOOK III f 6x6 ] CHAP. IX. 

force of this Objection doth afiert, that Truth 

and Righteeufnefsis fettled upon the mif-perfwa- '' 

dedSe&arics part, and that the Church and Ma-0 

giftrate who findeth fault with him,hath nothing e: 

to perfwade them of the Truth, which they dc# c 

preis upon the Sectary, and fo cannot condemn 

or punifh him ; but he mult know,that it is one^ 

thing to fay One may err in the latitude of a PoC^ 

fibihty indefinit, another to fay, One doth err \x$ 

fuch a particular, wherein he hath the Light of 

Scripture and Rcafon clear for him. The Sectary ar 

will not deny he may err, but he will maintain li 

that in fuch one or other Article of his Profeifion * 

be doth nor err. Shall he maintain his Plea, thaitf 

he doth not err in fuch a point of Error? andc2 

lhall not the Magiftrate and Church maintain^! 

eheirPiea,that they do not err in punifhing fuch arj *< 

obftinat erroneous Perfon ? Chrift hath commit-^ 

ted the Keys of Do&rine and Difcipline to His» f 

Church, that private Perfons may know Gbrift'sH 

Will by the Miniftry of the Church, except hit 

will be holden for an Heathen or 'Publican. A/<tf :? 

18. 17. He hath alfo committed the power oi 

the Sword unto the Magi (Irate, who doth not 

bear the Sword in vain, Rom. 13. And therefore 

let rhc Church and Magiftrate do their Duty.and 

let erroneous perfons ceafe to (tumble the Lords 

people by their Error and Practice, and fufFei 

ihernfclves to be brought if) order by fuch as 

have Ccmrniffioh and Power to move them by 

Cusfures and civil Puai&msK: thereunto. 



BOOK Hi f 617 ] CHAP. IX; 

If ftill he will infill and alledge, that by this 
vfeans zCbriftian by Cenfuresand civil Puhifh- 
nent, is compelled to fin agamft his Confcience, 
ec him know, that a fcandaious Sectary or licen- 
ious Libertine, is not compelled at all to fin, 
)Ut to fay and do that which is right, and to 
hearken to the word of God rather than to his 
>wn erring Confcience : For the fcandalous Se- 
nary, Schifmatick or Heretick, lyeth in a two- 
fold Sin, the one is in his Spirit, believing and 
md embracing an Error, the other in his ex- 
:ernal Words and Deeds corrupting the Minds 
i#d Manners of God's people. If afcer Confe- 
r ence and Deputation, the Sin of his mif- led Mind 
:annot be taken away, yet the correcting of him 
3y Church- cenfu res and civil Punifhment may 
eflrain and bind him up from troub!ing,and in- 
feeling others with his Leaven and ill Example; 
ind fo his finning externally is -cut off, and. he 
made in fo far to ceafe from Evil : wherein he 
ioth not fin in io far, becaufo Sin is not every 
rrangreflion of the Ditemenc of the Confcience 
Imply, but the Tranfgrcrtion of the Law, a;\d 
Ditcment of the Confcience fpeaking according 
o the Law.is a Sin./c is true indeed that whoib- 
:ver doth judge the Ditemenc of his Confcience 
:o be the Law of God, and yet doth the contra- 
y,muft by interpretation of his Deed be holclen 
>ui!ty of Sin,becaufe he who by Fear or Hope 
:an be moved to do contrary to the Ditemenc 
rfhi$ JErring Confcience,in erfe# doth p;ofcfs 



BOOK III. I6i%] CHAP. X, 

he may be moved by Hope or Fear to do con- 
trary to the Ditement of his Confciencc well 
informed. Mean time it is expedicnt,not only foi 
the good of the Society of Gods People,but al- 
fo for the good of the erroneous Perfon himfel' 
that; he be curbed and hindered, by thcfe that 
have lawful power, fromdoing yet moreharm< 
and retrained from following the courfe of Sin, 
iand filling up the full meafure of Sinning whic^j 
lie vy as about to dp. 

CHAP. X. 

Offuch as do pleafe themfelves in a condition not 
pleafing God bccaufe they conceive they can pray 
well under any condition. 

4 

SUndry there are, who think theirSouls to 
be* in a good cafe and Condkion,when th«y 
iran PraV much, and that with freedom of 
Spirit, vvheHpoflibly they do not watch ove* 
their Hearts/ nor ways as becometh them. 
8 This Sicknefs even Converts are fubje<9: un- 
to fundry times, but it may be moft clearly 
feeniri tliofe, who £>ut a fort of Worth and Me- 
rit iheffc<9:,upon their Religious Exercifes.as we 
iriay fee in many IjraeUjes \nJfaia,s zimc.chap.jS: 
Th : v did K-ckbn themfelves among them that 
did (eck God daily who delighted in His ways 
and did approach unto Him, ver. z yet becauft 
God did riot grant their Petitions, they fell on 
f&ifiiiftjg Hiflfl> w/». 3, Wherefac bavewe faffed 



BOOK III. [ 6x 9 ] CHAP. X 

f(ay the*) <W Thou fee y? not} wherefore have we 
affltded our Souls andThou take/f no knowledge-The 
hiltory alio of Korah 9 Dathan%x\& Ahiram isnoc- 
tour, wherein we fee what efteem Korah and 
his Complices had of their own Holincls, and 
of their accefs to God in their Frayers, that 
they durfl hazard and lay their Lives in pawn, 
that God ftiould make them as welcome when 
they came with their Cenferes to pray before 
Him, as Aaron and Mofes, yea and more wel- 
come then they, 

Such a fort of Deceit is that whereby fome Fa- 
naricks, Enthufialts and Hereticks do fofter: 
themfelvcs in their own Folly, and imagine they 
arenofmall Men in God's account,becau(e they 
find a fort of Eloquence in their Prayers, which 
they conceive God would not give unto them, 
except He were well pleafed with their Peffons, 
Prayers and Ways ; and that the true Convert 
alfo is fubje& to this Sicknefs, appeareth by 
this, that Mofes in Charity judged many who 
countenanced the Confpiracy, to be godly 
Perfons otherways, and therefore exhorted 
them to forfake the unhappy Society of thefe 
wicked Men. And Cure it is, that fundry of 
the Sons of Korah did repent and fly from the 
company of the obftinat Tranfgreflbrs ; for it 
is clear that all the Sons of Korah did not pe- 
rifh, Numb. 26. 11, and frequent mention is 
made of the Polterity oi forth ia the Chroni- 
cles and ? J alms. v v"flfi2 



BOOK III. [ 6^o ] CHAP. X. 

But we need hot infift much here,feing Expe? 
rienceteacheth, thac many go on confidently in 
maintaining Schifnand Error perfwading thenv 
felv.es of theG >o i kPs or nzir courfe and con- 
dition, becaute their Prayers do flovy according 
to their vviih fcqm day today. And many are, 
who if they find freedom in Prayer, for any par- 
ticular concerning themfelves or others.do allure 
themfelves that it ihall cone to pafs -which 
they pray for : And if their Spirits be ftraitned 
in praying for fpiritual and promifedQraces.they 
£ear they fhaLl not be f^tisfied in the Particular 
they pray for. 

For Remedy of this Self-deceit, Men muft 
knpvy.that it is one thing to pray much,and ano- 
ther thing to be heard and their Prayers and 
Perfons accepted. The Jews are told by the Pro- 
phet yyii^C^/vi. ij. that albeit they put up 
many Petitions,the Lord will not hear them,be- 
caule their Hands were full pfLBlood. % Carnal 
Affection may evilly creep in and ftir up a Fer- 
vency of Prayer j/^w.4. 3. Ton ask and obtain not, 
lee a nfe you ask amifsjhat you may. bejiow what you. 
fray for upon your -%ufts . jj Saints may pray earneft- 
iy for that \*hic.hQod is not minded to grant unto 
them, as Samuel prayed for Saul, that he might 
be continued King, 1 Saw.i6.iAnd David- miy 
pray for the Life of Batbjhebas Child and not pre- 
vali.4 On. the other hand Prayers put up from. a 
ftraitned Heart in a^ad condition, may prove no 
Ic&pleafing unto Gu& then when the Supplicant 
~~* " ' dprla 



BOOK III: [ 611 ] CH A P. XT, 

doth find mod enlargement ofSpirit,& freedom 
of Prayer.How oft did thePfalmifl cry out of the 
Deeps,when his Spirit was overwhelmed within 
him.when Darknefs and the Cords of Death did 
ftraiten him,as F^6i.i.isholden forth > And the 
Apoftle (Rom. 8.) giveth us to underftand, that 
thcSpirit of theConvert may be fo ftraitened by 
Afflictions bodily and fpiritual,thatthey are not 
able to fet their Words in order before God,yea 
nor have clear notions of their Neceftities and 
Defires,but in (lead of an Oration, do Sigh and 
Groan unto God. Wherefore if a Man (hall iri 
the fenfe of his Sins and Wants, have his daily 
recourfe unto Chri(l,and be careful to bring forth 
the Fruits .of the Spirit,praying for what is pro- 
mifed with Submiffion to God, what meafure 
and at what time He pleafeth to give, he may 
befure his petfon and prayers are acceptable, as 
we are taught, ljoh. 5.14, 15. Tins is the con* 
frlence that we have in Him, that if we ask any 
thing according to His Will, He keareth us ; an J 
if we know that He heareth us, whatsoever we ask % 
we knew that we have the Petitions that we- de(t~ 
ted of Htm. 

C H A P. XI. 

Of the Converts ejieeming the Peace of 60 J to &. 
but a Carnal Security. 



W 



E have brought forth fome Examples of 
the firft fort of the Confaence Erring 



BOOK IIL [ 6ii ] CHAR XT. 

by efteeming an evil Condition to be a good 
Condition. Now let us look upon feme Exam- 
ples of aConfcience erring,by efteeming a good 
Condition to be an evil Condition. Of the 
which fort this (hall be one. 

Sometime fome Converts do miftake the 
Peace of God granted unto them after hard Ex- 
crcife,and doefteem the quietnefs of their Cqn- 
foence;to be nothing elfe but a carnal Security 
and ihepy Difpofition of the Confcience. To 
which cafe that we may fpeak the more clear- 
ly ,we do not deny that many are, who indeed 
•fall in a carnal Security and pleafe themfelves 
thcrein,eoneeiving they have the Peace of God 
and a blefled Quietnefs of Confcience. Such 
Perfons have no doubt nor fufpicion but all is 
well with them, for they do not examine and 
compare their condition and ways with the 
Word of God, but fleep fvveetly in their carnal 
Security $nd Negligence of fpiritual Duties,likc 
tothefe lukewarm Laodkeans.Rev. j.Offuph wa 
do not fpeak here.2. Again we do not deny, that 
true Converts are in danger to fuffer the Peace 
whichGod hath granted unto them,to degenerat 
unto a carnal Security.For eafily may a Convert 
after Confolation divine fall in a Sleep, as the 
Spoufe did in the Cantkk t $.i8m we are fpeak«* 
jng of the cafe of a Convert, watching unto Du- 
ties, who after no fmall vexation in his conflidfc 
^iththe Tcntations of the Devil, with the Ter- 
for of iheL&w and £cnfc of Divine Wrath hath 



tfOOKHI [ 623 ] CHAP. XT* 

gotten the Vi&ory by Faith in Chriit, tnd hath 
obtained Peace with God gracioufly granting 
his Petition, we arefpeaking here of thrle Con- 
verts who after the Lord hath granted Peace 
tinfothem through Faith in Chrift, dare not «n- 
joy their Peace, but do fufpeft that their Peace 
is not found, and at length do count and call it 
carnal Security;and fo do breed themfelves new 
Troubles of Mind. The Pretence and feeming 
Reafon whereby they do deceive themfelves is 
this When God, fay they, feemed unto us angry 
with us,when wc found no Peace and were wreft- 
Jing under the fenfe of Sin, and in doubt whe- 
ther fuch as we fliould find Mercy, then we did 
pray very earncftly, Night and Day,then we were 
diligent in Hearing and Reading of the Word of 
God,and were painful in the Exercife of all Du- 
ties of Religion,and Obedience.But now wefind 
our feives much cooled and flackned in allthcfc 
Duties, whereupon we juftly fufped the Peace 
which wenow do find, tobc nothing elfe but a 
carnal Security of a deeping Confcience. By this 
Miltake all Thankfgiving for the Peace granted 
unto them is well near fuffocatand extinguifhed. 
Their former condition under Doubts and Fears, 
is judged to be better then their prefent condi- 
tion, they wifh their former Fears may return, 
rather then they fliould coniinue in this con- 
ditiott, wherein their Tears are dryed up, 
and their former Diligence eaten up. Hence 
go they ei* to lay forth their Complaints be- 
fore 



BOOK III. [6z4] CHAP. XI. 

fore their intimat acquatntance.conccrning God's 
Difpenfation and dealing with them,becaufe the 
Spirit of Fear & Reverence toward God, the Spi- 
ritof Grace and Supplication is much diminiftied 
and near-by qaenched in them. By which com- 
plaints they do not only breed trouble tothem- 
felves,but alfo make heavy the Hearts of their 
Godly Friends, and do tempt them to fall into 
the like complaints & ro grieve theLords Spirit. 
2. This miftake doth arife, partly from the 
not confidcring and efteeming of the gracious 
Gifts of Peace and other Graces beftowed upon* 
them,and partly from a wrong Comparifon of 
their former and prefent condition. For firft the 
afflided Pcrfontaketh no notice of the Evidences 
of a new Creature in himfelf,he doth not confider 
how great a Benefit is beftowed upon him,when 
he feareth to offend God, feareth to be fhut out 
from Society with Him, and earneftly defireth 
to be fure of His Favour in Chrift: He hath net 
a due Eftimation of having Peace with God and 
War withSin in himfelf joined together;to be freed 
from the Torment of the Confcience condemn- 
ing himaccording to the Law, and with all a 
defireand delight in the obedience of the Go- 
fpel joy ned together,' z. He doth inconfiderat- 
ly exad of his Confcience, that his Soulfliould 
be in the fame difpoiition before Peace be 
granted, and afrer that it is bellowed, or that 
his Affe&ions fhould be ftirred up one and the 
fame way in both-thefe Cafes ; For before 

Peace 



BOOK ni [ 6ij ] CHAP. XI. 

Peace is given he cannot chufe but he mull: 
have Sorrow, Heavinefs of He;»rt. Unquietnefs 
Fear.and iuch like other fad Affldions.Bur after 
that God grantcth Peacc,thcfc Perturbations are 
quieted, tormenting Fear ceafeth, Lamentati- 
ons are retrained, Tears are wsfhen away in a 
good mcafurCp and in their place, do Thanks- 
giving to, and Praifes of God (ucceed, and e- 
very Duty do call for their own place in a pa- 
cified Mind, fo that the Mans body be not ne- 
glefted as before,but care had of keeping Health, 
for enabling to do what is required of him in 
his Calling toward every one with whom he 
liveth : For, now his condition being changed, 
why fliould not his Affedtions, and the Effects 
depending on them be changed alfo? Who can 
reafonably exad: the fame Duties of a Man in a 
Fight, whidh he may require of him when he 
hath gotten the Vi&ory ? who can expert the 
fame Carriage from a Man when he is fick 
and when he is in health ? Doth not the Apo- 
ftlefay, Jam. y. it,. If any Man he afflitled 
let him pray ? Is any merry, let him fing Pfalms. 

3. For Remedy of this Evil, 1, let the Af- 
flicted examine himfelf whether this Peace hath 
had a conflict of Confcience, and Faith under 
the fenfe of Sin and fear of the Wrath threate- 
ned in the Law, going before it or not. 2. 
Whethtr this Peace hath followed upon flying 
to Chrift by Faith, unto whom he did cleave 
in his fad exsreife 1 Whether this peace hath 

fol- 



BOOK Iff. [6i6] CHAP. XL 

followed afcer Prayer and Supplication made to 
God for it, that he might without Fear of his 
Enemies ferve God all the days of his Life > 4 
And laft of all, whether his Heart fiill inclineth 
and endeavoureth to give obodience to the 
Commands of God, and to be grieved for his 
fhort-coming therein?/fthe(c Things do concur 
which befeem aConvert,let him pert wade himfelf 
his Peace which he hath cenfured for carnal Se- 
curity, is the (olid Peace of God mtftaken by 
him. And therefore,!, let him no more fufpedfc 
the Gift of God, but hold faft the Word of 
G©d, which Faith of the Soul chafed toChrift, 
hath laid hold on, that being now juftifled by 
Faith he may have Peace with God, Rom.*>. x. 
For,God doth not give to His Supplicantcarnal 
Security for Pcace,a (tone for Bread, and an Ad- 
der for Fi flu But, 2. let him obferve the Wiles 
and Malice ofSatan,who cannot endure that the 
Soul fled from him to Chrift fnould haveFeace, 
or in the enjoying •fir blefs G^d for His Gift 
of Grace* And 3. lethimftudy tomakeufeof 
this /'eac* granted to him, going on in the o- 
bedience of Gods Commands chearfully, and to 
be ready for new Confli&s and Aflaults from 
Satan, and not be afraid of being deprived of 
tlie^eaceof God, while he by Faith in Chrift 
is yoked in Battle againft Sm which hefeethiri 
the World and feelech mhimleif. 



tBAi 



BOOK III [ 6zy ] CHAP;Xil. 

CHAP. XII. 

Of the cafe of a Convert ; taking feme acls ofjuflifr 
ing Faith to he high Prejumption in his Per- 
: fon. 

THis cale is like the former. Some true 
Converts are, who have fled to Chrill 
foi RemiiTion of Sin and Delivery from Perdi- 
tion, and have applyed the Prorriifes made for 
San&iflcation and Confolation,and full Salvati- 
on after this Life, in fuch a meafure as dotli 
fufficethem for encouragment to wreftlc with 
Difficulties, wherewith they may meet in their 
way to Heaven. But when the higheft and moft 
excellent Pnviledgcs of the Gofpelare prefentcd 
to them, and come to be made ufe of, fuch as 
are, fitting together with Chrifl in heavenly places \ 
SpheC x. 6, icing co-heirs annexed with ]efu$ 
Zhrifl, Rom. 8. 17. So e/leemed of , and loved by 
Chrill, that they who touch His Saints, do 
touch the Apple of His Eye, fudging the World and 
the damned Angels, iCor 6-3.and. iuch like other 
privilcdges,they are at a ftand ? & dare not apply 
thefe pnviledgcs for Fear, of high Frefumprion. 
x Neither rnuft we wonder that a .Soul {houlct 
fall iri this Exercife,and yet adhere to Chnit as 
a Convert and true Believer: For when a Sinner 
for feai of Perdition is chafed to a Saviour.and 
dare not looie his Grips left hc % fall in the ¥\& x 
lie mar feem to himfeif to be in good cafe if he; 
gee' in to Chrift, aibeit he do not thiuft himlelf . 
R r upon 



BOOK III. [ 6i8 ] CHAR XTT.'l 
upon fuch high Priviledgcs, and joyn himfelf 
With Ah rah am and the Patriarchs and Prophets. 
Like unco Mephibojheth, who judged himielfto 
have found Grace enough at Davids Hind, that 
his life was (pared, but trembled when he was 
priviledg'd to come to the Kings Table, who in 
his own Eyes, was like a dead Dog for his ui> 
worthinefs, as he judged of himfdf. Or like 
the Prodigal in the Gofpe!,who in his own eyes 
was not worthy tobe counteJ a child of the Fa* 
mily,but content to be as one of the hired Ser- 
vants in his Fathe 'sBoufe.And true it is,that the 
wonderful largenefs of the PtOmifes of the Go- 
fpel. rnaketh the true Convert,lateIy come forth 
of the flavery of Sin and Satan, to fiand fo a- 
ftonillied, that he dare not take to him fo glo 
rious Titles, Priviledges and Confolations as 
the .Scripture doth allow him: yea, when he 
Would lift up himfelf to believe the Glory pro- 
mi fed, he can no more apprehend the infinite 
Love and Grace of God propunded and adjud- 
ged unto him, then he can meafure the Hea- 
ven with his fpan, or comprife in his hand the 
great Glob, and round of Heaven & Earth. From 
fjch a confideration was it, that Peter did a! 
fsrft utterly refufe to fuffer Chrift to Wafh his 
Feet ; and that Martha, in the beginning of het 
Confe-ence with Chrift, could notrhhk of fo 
great a benefit, a> the Rcfcirre&ion of her Bra- 
ther Lazarus before the Day of Judgment. 






BOOK IIF. r 6*9 3 CHAP. XTT; 

2. The Cohvcrt iruhis Cafe, doth wrong to 
himfelf and to the Word of God, & to the libera- 
lity and rich Grace of God;for, (b long as he fuf- 
fereth himielf to be born down from embracing, 
as fafely he may, the rich allowance of God u- 
pona Soul reconciled to Him by Faith in Chrift, 
lie not only cuts liimfelf off from that mcafure 
of Joy of the holy Ghoft which he may. have, 
but alfogivetli occafion and advantage to Satart 
to brangle and call in queftion, whether the 
Man hath indeed believed in Chrift at all, or 
whether he hath laid hold on Chrift for Riglv- 
teouihefs and Salvation by Faith unfaincd: For, 
if it be prefumption for a feif condemned Sinner, 
flying unto Chrift by Faith to lay hold upon the 
Benefits which Chrift hath prepared, purchafed, 
and offered unto him upon this pretended Rea- 
fbn, that thefe Benefits are fo hudgely great, 
ajnd the Man fo fmall and unworthy in his own 
Eyes, why may not Satan, with as great tea-: 
fbn, ( if there were any weight in it ) call 
it Prefumption for fuch a Man to lay claim 
unto Chrift, Who is greater then all His Be- 
nefits, and fo beat him off from Faith and. 
Confidence in Chrift the great gift of GoJ.made 
of God, to poor Sinners fl^d uato Htm, Wif- 
dom and Righteoufnefs, Sanitification and R.e- 
ckmption > 

3 Wherefore to help the Convert in this con- 
dition, Met him confider.he doth well to be fear- 
<$ for Prefumptigo, forjt is a fearful evil ; \hi K 

R r * lec 



BOOK III. [ 630 ] CHAP. Xli; 

Jet him rerriember to put due difference between 
Prefumpnon, and true Faith and Confidence.- 
For, 1. Preemption is proud and puft up with 
Self-conceit, but we prefuppofe the Convert to 
be humble and kid low in his own Eyes, in this 
condition we are fpeaking of.2.Prefumption is fe- 
cure and negligent in the dilcharge of comman- 
ded Duties; but the Convert we fpeak of, is a- 
bout the ufe of the Means,and in fome meafure 
.diligent in difcharging commanded Dudes in his 
Calling.jPrefumprion layeth hold upon promi- 
fes not made to thePrefumptueus.and troublerh 
not it felf with Precepts and Threatenings *; 
but the Convert in this condition we are fpeak- 
ing of,regardeth both Precepts and Threaten- 
ings, and is fo far from putting forth his Hand, 
without a warrant,u;ito promifes, that he {lands 
aloof from laying hold on moe Promifes, then 
he conceiveth necefTar to fave his Soul from 
Hell.4. The prefumptuous promifeth to hmfelf 
Felicity,albek he walk in his own ways, and 
turnech the Grace of God into Lacivioufnefs,in- 
couraging himfelf to Sin becaufe God is merci- 
ful;but this Convert eiheweth Sin, and follow- 
ed! the way which may lead him to the 
poffeffion of all Promifes. Therefore, i, let the 
Convert in this condition remember,that Chrift 
and all His benefits are fo joyned together in 
the grant of Grace,that he may coniiJenrly fay fo 
with the Apoftle, Ro?/}.8. 3z.that feeing Chrift is 
giveaco the Believer Hying unto Him,it cannoc 

bo 



BOOK Ilk [ 631 ] GH A P. XH 

be but God with Him will give all things 
alio, z, Let him confidcr, that it is a dan- 
gerous matter, not to give credit unto Gods 
faithful Word holder) forth in one Promife, as 
well as in another * For,feeing He is worthy to 
be believed in the firfl Promife, of receiving in- 
to Favour a Sinner flying to Chrift, why ihall 
He not have the Glory of Truth and Grace in 
the reft of the Promifes, which belong to the 
accomplishing of the fullGlorification of thcMan 
reconciled. 3:And laftofal!, let the Convert, 
in this condition confider, how near he draweth 
to a Popilh Error in thispraiHce; for, P apt/Is do 
meafure the Gifts of God unto Men, by chc 
Mans Merit and Well-deferving, and nor by 
, meer Grace only , and upon this ground do reckon 
lit Pretumption for any ordinar Christians to be 
jafTured in this Life, that God will guide them 
with His Counfel, and at their departure out of 
this Life,immediatly receive them intoGlory.Foi, 
if the Convert being chafed by the Law to lay 
hold on Chrift (whois the End of the Law for 
Righteoufhcfs unto every one that believcth ) 
ihallftand aback from laying hold onthc high- 
eft Priviledges of Saints, & the greateft Promifes 
made to juftified Souls, becaufeof his own u;> 
worthineis,doth he not (ay in efTedr,if I were more 
worthy and like in holinefs un:o fuch and 
fuch Saints, I could be more confident to, lay 
hold on thefe high promifes: which ground, 
i it bw once holden, it makes the 

R r 3 rev 



00 OK Iff. [ 6> ] CHAP, Xllfc 

Jleafon of the Man's Confidence to be his own J 
Weli-defervmg, and not the meer and only 
prace of God the free Promifer thereof, & fo the 
Way of Salvation by Grace fhould be undermin- 
ed and overturned: which is abfurd, becaufe the 
Apo{{\c % 'Ephefz. 8.faith,7W by Grace we arc fa- 
ved through Faith, and that not of ourf elves, it is the 
Gfft of (W.Therefofe let not the humbled Con 
vert think it Preemption to lay hold on Chrift 
and the fulnefs of all promifed Grace in Him> 
bow large foever it be. 

CHAP. XIII. 



hfthe condition of the Convert, fearing that the 
Joy of the Holy Ghofl which he hath felt.be found 
enly to be either the Joy of Speculation .common 
to temporal Believers \or a meer Delufion. 




F this fort alfo is this cafe, wherein r,he 
Convert doth fufpedt, that, the Joy of the 
Spine which he hath felt ac fome times, was ei- 
ther a joy c ^Speculation or Contemplation only, 
fuch as^hilofophers may find in their ftudy of 
humane Learning, or elfe a Delufion of Satan 
alio. ' This cafe may fall upon the true Con- 
vert in the time of Afflidion and felt Defcrtion, 
when not only the fenfe of Confolation is with- 
drawn, but ; a!fo Sorrow and Heavinefs have 
f i2 -:d on his Spirit, when the fharpnefs of af- 
fection rakes up the whole Soul, and Sorrow 
---*•■- » ^loch 



BOOK 111 [ 6 ? 3 ] CHAP. XIII 

doth fill the Heart At fuch a time the memory 
of by pad joy is greatly dgrkned, and the fgpjfe 
of prelent Gncfihfijmerb the whole Man For 
as ic falleth forth in a Mans Body, that both 
f weec and four Liquor, do * atfeft the fenfc of 
/Tailing moft,when they are prefenrly felt, hut 
When they arc part, the Memory of them dorh 
affed the Imagination only, and that but light- 
ly in companfon with prcfent fenfe. As die 
knfe of a fiery Coal doth othcrways affect us 
when it touches our Fleih, then the ncmory of 
the pain we have felt, doth move us when the 
Pain \s pad; fo it is in the Paffions of the Sou!, 
for joys fpiritualfhine for a while, when they 
arc lately railed up in the £ouI, but after a time 
they are darkened, and in fome fort worn our, 
efpccially when Grief doth aiife, then they are 
fwallovved up with Sorro.v.or are well nearfor^ 
^gotten, or lightly cftccmed and rejedied: My 
Soul refujeA comfort, faith the Pfalmift, Pf. yj.z. 
Such was Davrds condition, Ffi 1 6.1 l.VVhcn he 
[did in his halt all Men are Lyars: at which time, 
whatsoever joy he had fclr,in believing the prQrni- 
fes made to him by Samuel or other Prophcrsjic 
counted all to.be but deceiving of him and De- 
lufion. 

This Miflake is ftrcngthened ordinary by Sa- 
tans Tentation and wicked £uggcflion, watch- 
ing upon all occafions to traduce and (lender all 
Gods Words and Operations. The Complaint of 
ffrenty favcuts Qjf this malicious Suggeilion, 

R r 4 wiuciv 



BOOKIII. [$34 I CHAP.XIir. 

which the Prophet iayetb out before God, to be 
rid of it, Jer. 20 jYbou haft deceived me\and I was 
decetved.Ytz oft-times it cometh to pafs,that our 
ol'J M^n and corrupt inclination taketh part 
Vvtth Satari, and when occafiori doth offer, fcorn- 
eth all the fpirituaf Affection's of the new Man, 
z%ljhmael mocked Ifaac's devotion. 

2. This EvH except n be fpeedily and folidly \} 
cured, not only caftech the Convert in a miferable 
toncinion, but alfb calterh in queftion hisftate, 
whether at all he be Regenerat, reconciled and 
in the (late of Grace; Fof, if the Joy of the ho- 
ly Spirit granted to the {applicant prayingtb 
God in Chuft,for confirmation of his Faith, gran- 
ted to the mourner for fin, that he may be com- 
forted, (hall bcefteenft'ed as the effedbf Specula- 
tion only, then the comfort of the Earneft penny 
andfirlt Fruycs of the Spirit is loft,the Confirma- 
tion pf Faith by that Confolation is enervat and 
weakened; Thankfgiving formerly offered for 
the comfort fomecime felt,isrecalled,and theTe- 
flimbhy of Gods Spirit, fpeak'ing according to 
the word in oft- repeated Experience is laidafide. 
And fothe Afflidtcd Soul (hall feem to himfelfi 
in ivorfc condition then when he Was lying in.his 
Sins, becaufe he ftiajl fsem tohirnielf to havi 
loiVhis "labour from thetime that he renounced 
his^ins.' Wherefore it is neccflary, that this 
Sickricfs be fpeedily cured, left it prevail. 

3 For Remedy of this evil, let theAitlidedJay 
aficib'dlc difpuce fc: a time 'whether his Joys 



BOOK III 1 [ 635- ] CHAP. Xiir. 

and Spiritual Experiences ofthe Lords working 
in frith; fiave bctn real, as rheyromecime feernedj 
and lee him turn his' Eyes upon his prefene mi- 
serable con fu fed condition, let him take a new: 
view of hrs Sins' and unworthinefs, let him ob- 
serve Sararts MnIice,Power and Wiles to weaken 
Taith,& what need now he ftandeth in of Chrift 
Mediator, Redeemer, Surety and Phyfician by 
Office,after a new difcovery ofhisSinfu|nefs;and 
let him look upon the Riches of the Grace of 
God offered iri the Gofpel to every hungry and 
thirfty Soul flying to Chrift for refuse, and lee 
liim [ay to God, Lord there was never a time 
vvherein I had rn ore need of Chrift fqr Righce- 
oufnefs and Salvation, behold I fly unto Thee, 
I welcome and embrace Chrift offered in the 
•Gofpel, and heartily do confent unto the Co- 
venant of Grace through Him, and do except 
embrace & rely upon Remiflion of Sins through 
Him, and the imputation of His Satisfactory 
Righteoufnefs,madeover tofuchas fly untoHim, 
or effe I fhould perifh utterly, and do give up 
rny felfto Thee, that Thou mayeft wiite Thy 
Law more powerfully on ray Heart. By this 
Means the Confidence of thc-Afflifted's lntereft 
in the' Covenant of Grace fhall be more fixed 
and made fore to him, and Sa ra n d i fa p pointed of; 
his defign to caiV the Affli&ed by His Tencadonsi 
in Misbelief, and Separation from Chrift. ' 

^t Thus when he hath renewed the Grips of 
Faith in Chrift, let him now enter the lifts, 1 

«3 



BOOK.E [ 6^6 1 CHAR XTIL 
and difpute the Solidity of his former felt Expe- 
periencesbydifculfing the objections which did 
weaken his eftimatioa of the former tele Joys 
ofthe Spirit. O leobje&ion agaiqtt them was, 
becaufe they wereof (horc en*iuraice,and therp- 
fcre feemed not folid. The Antwer may be this, 
The fhort (laying of the Joy of thq Spirit is no 
proof againft it, as not true Joy; for, it is fuffici- 
ent earned of the prorwfoi Salvation, if, 
vyhen the Wqrd of God in die Gofpel fpeaketh 
Peace to the Man fled to Chrift he findeth tjip 
Word believed to be confirmed to the Believer 
f>y Peace 8c Joy,alheit the fenfe of it remain but 
a fhort whiie; After you believed faith the Apoftle, 
you were fealed with the Spirit oj prorvtfe.Epheti. 
i r. As it is not fufficient to prove,thatwhoiromp 
water given to a Fever Tick Perfon, is not a 
w 7 I?olefome Drink, becaufe the cooling Rcfrefli- 
ment by it,endureth but a fhort while;fbit is not 
fufficient to prove,thatConfolation & Joy given to 
a lorrowful Sinner,feeking favour through Chrifl 
is not folid and true Joy, becaufe it ftayeth but 
afliort while.lt is fufficient that it hath Hayed fo 
long as was needfuhfor, after the Word oTPr'Of] 
wife was believed, the Joy was fent to eaie the 
afflided Souls prefent grief,and to givehimear- 
nelt, that full and lading Joy fhould be given 
in due time unto him. When the MefTenger 
Iiath done his Commifsion, let him return to 
his leader. As the Sheet let down in the Vi- 
rion from Heaven to Peter, after it had ferved 



JjOOK III. [ 657 ] CHAP. XTIL 
for Peters Inftrucftion, it was taken up to Hea- 
ven again, A:t. jo The Spouie in thzCanticle 
knew by experience, that her fpinruil Joys 
would nor lait long, and therefore chargcththe 
daughters of Jemjalem that they waken not her 
Beloved nil He pleated 

5. Another Objection is this, If my Joy had 
been fold (faith the Airlifted ) it fliouid have 
brought forth better bruits than it hath done; 
bur joy fpintual as I then called ic,diddegenerac 
into a carnal Secut icy. & I was not the more Holy 
by it. To which Objection the Anfwer may 
bethis,the blame of this is not to be laid onfpiri- 
tual Joy, but upon the abuieof this Mercy, by 
ingratitude for this gracious blink of felt Favour, 
negligence in the ufe of means to entertain 
this fenfe by floepine(s of Confcience and orhcr 
Sins, and namely the laying too much weight 
ypon this fenfe, and not fixing the Heart by fo 
much more upon the Word of Prom lie when 
fvltConfolation may be withdrawal's a juftcaufa 
for,fpiritual Joy is not given to any to build upon 
its continuance, but to make the Convert hold 
the confirmed word of promife fo much the fa- 
der when for the Ex?rcife of Faith, comforta- 
ble Feelings are withdrawn. The Spoufe in 
the Canticle after a Feaft of 1 h s kind, falUth 
afleep, and giveth flight enterraining to the 
Bridegroom when called upon by His word, 
for which Die is chaftifed, by his with- 
drawing of His comfortable prefence, Cant. 5. 1. 



BOOK Hi r <?38 ] CHAP. Xilf. 
a, 3. &c. But ler us put the cafe, that the felt, 
Joy of the Spirit were not abufed, yet isic not 
unufual for God to withdraw Confolation, and 
to fend Trouble and An'guifh,on the Soul ofHis 
dear Child, to try his Faich and train him on to 
hold the Word of His Grace in the hardeft Con- 
dition he can be into, as He did exereife Joh 9 
and Jeremie the Prophet, Jer. 20. and the 
Pfalmift, Pf. 7 7. In which condition, to fufpedi 
that the Confolation and Joy of the Spirit,fpeak- 
ing to the Heart by His word, is nor His graci- 
ous Operation, or is a Delufion, cannot but ex- 
ceedingly grieve the Lord, and give Him caufe 
to chaltife this fufpicion with Defertion. 

6. But how may /know, faith the Afflicted, 
that my Joy was folid and was indeed the graci- 
ous Operation of the Holy Spirit?For anfwer, r. 
If this Joy was given to him when, or after, he 
was lamenting his Sins, and fearing Wrath defer- 
ved,and flying unto Ch rift offered in the Gofpel, 
he hath reafon to reckon that Joy to be fuch as 
the Word of the Gofpel doth promife and ap- 
prover. If during the time of his fweet feeling of 
Peace and Joy through Chrift, he found his Faith 
in God, and Love to Chrift confirmed and 
ftrcngthned.if the Word of the Gofpel was in 
more eftimation with him, if his Heart was 
Enlarged to blefs, praife and thank God for 
manifefting Himfelf in Chrift reconciled, if the 
purpofc oKfolIovvng after Holinefs was renew- 
ed ia hiii, he hath no reafon to fufpsft his 

J°y. 



BOOK lit. [ 639 1 CHAP. XIV. 
Joy and Gomforc. 3. If after the removing of 
this fwcet feeling he is going on in the (ludy 
ofHolinefs, believing in Chnft, how heavy 
in Heart foever he may be, by Affii&ion and 
Tentation, he may be allured his fometime felc 
Joy of the Lords Spirit was folid, and his pre- 
sent (ufpicion thereof to be an evidence of his 
Infirmity, and of a Tentation from Satan. 
This was the way how the Pfalmift wrellled 
Out of his (ad condition, P/ 77. 

CHAR XIV. 

Of the Converts fufpefting, that his Zeal for God 
and again/} the Sins of others hath been fie ft ly 
Severity and imprudent Temerity. 

IT cometh to pals, that they who love God 
fincerely, and cannot endure the out-break- 
mgs of the wicked, do fometimestranfgrefsthe 
bounds of Mod^rat Zeal, and being overtaken 
in fome mifcarriage, for which being rebuked 
by their Friends, or by them in power centered 
or civilly chaftifed, do in ftead of Moderating 
their Zeal in time coming, grow more flack and 
remifle in their Zeal, fufpe&ing themfefves in- 
clined to unrealbnable Severity and Raftmefs. 
and ready to be efteemed Haters of Mens Per- 
fons by thofe among whom they live,as in fome 
bygone experience they have already felt. And 
upon this occafion the Tentation of Satan failetli 
on tending to excinguiih the fervency of true 
£eai required in all true Converts. 

And 



BOO K III [ 640 ] CHA P. XVi 

And here there is Danger left true 2eal grow 
cold, and the Convert become luke- warm. both 
in curbing Sin in others under his charge, and 
in puriuing Djties in his own perfon. In 
which Sicknefs he may be the better pleafed 
with himfelf, by (omuch as his Friends and o- 
thers do commend him for his Moderation and! 
Prudence as they ihall call it. 

2. As to the Remedy of this Evil. there is no 
doubt, but that may befal true Zeal, which is 
common to other Vertues, ot which there is - 
none fo per fed, but (brhe in- lake or excefs may 
be obferved in them. And therefore, as it is 
without reafon to go back from purfuing Duty 
in the exercife of other Vertues^ecaufe Imper- 
fe<5Hons therein are remarkable from time to 
time:So is it without reafon to grow lukewarm 
in Zeal which may render a Man loathfome uu- 
£0 Chrift,/teux 3. Wherefore iet'the Convert take 
heed what the Lords word doth require of 
hirn in his calling, and labour to difcharge his 
Duty towards others ; (o as he may be found 
bcth Zealous and prudent, rhat in the Expret- 
fions of his Zeai againft Sin,Meeknefs & Love to' 
the Offender may be manifeited. z To this in- N 
fentJettheConvert carefully take heed ro enter- 
tain thefe threePropertics of commendable Z al t ! 
which are, i % The Fear of God.. 2. Humility of 
Heart. 3. The love of his Neighbour: For, 
the Fear of God will not fuffer the Convert to 
depart from His Commandments \ Humility of 

f mm 



UOOK m. [ «4* 1 CHAP. XV 

Heart will make the Man modeft fn his Expref- 
fions, and the Love of his Neighbour will make 
him mix Meekncfs and Companion toward din- 
ners with his Zeal againft Offences. This itf 
the Right feafoning of Zeal, which the Apoftle 
calkththc Zeal of God according to Knowledge. 

CHAP. XV. 

Of the Converts fufpeftinghis aiming at circumJpeR 
walking, Jhall he found in him fcrupulofity. 

SOmetime itcometh to pafs, that the Con- 
vert being under hard excrcife before his 
Coni'olation, doth put on the whole Armour of 
of God, and (ludieth to walk circiiri'pedHy foe 
a while, but after a time hebecometh fonie- 
what weary of the Yoke, fufpe&ing he hatlt 
given too much way unto Scrupulofity, where- 
upon he becometh more femifle and flack 
in his Watchfulnefs and Diligence, laying 
afide the Armour of God, as David laid afide 
the Armour of King Saul, wherewith he was 
not accuftomed. 

For Satisfying himfelf in this courfe, I pre- 
fuppone he makeeh ufc of three pretended Rea- 
fons,The/ 7 /r/? is, becaufe it is impoflible fora- 
ny I dan to attain to fuch circumfpedfron in his 
carriage as becometh him; For it is no left then 
to aim at perfed: Obedience of the La w,\vhich 
&e Apoftle hath declared to be impofiilMe be- 
caufe 




EO O K III. [ *4*3 CH A R XV 

caufeofthe wcaknefs ofiheflefti, Bern. $. 
The next pretended reafon is, becaufe this ben 
ing of a Mans Spirit rhakcth the Confcienceun- 
quiet,that aMan cannot enjoy the Peace of God 
granted in the Gofpel. The third pretended Rea- 
ibn is,bccaufe it doth refhain Chrifiian Liber- 
ty in many things lawful), fb as' a Man t%n nei- 
ther make ufe of Recreation of Body, or Mind 
without fcruple; and here we'muft beware on 
die one hand,lefi we give way to any degree^ 
of mifregarding the Law, which >S the Error of 
the Antinomiansftnd on the other hand, left we 
infnare the Conscience of Converts and hinder 
them in the lawful ufe of what God doth allow 
unto therri. 

2. For Remedy of this Evil, let the Convert 
know that there is aNeceffity of aiming at cir- 
cumfpe<5t Walking. This Duty is indifpeniable :' 
For if a Chink be opened here in the Veflel for 
the lead entry of water,it may ere long fill and 
fink Che whole fhip; For the command flandeth" 
immoveable,//*^, u. 14 Follow Peace with alt' 
Men and Holinefs, without which no Mai ? /hall fee 
the Lord. Arid, 1. Pet: 1. 15*. As He that hath' 
called you is Holy, fo he ye holy in all manner of 
Cbnverjdtion. And, Mat j, 48, Chrift hath 
laid, le ye pet feet, as your Father in Heaven 
is per feci. 

This ground being laid, let us examine thefe 
three pretended Reafons As to the firft, a!be- . 
if the attaining unto the perfect obedience of the 



BOOK III [ 643 ] CHAP. XV, 

-aw in this Life be impoffible, becaufe of the 
nfirmity of corrupt nature ; yet, the aiming ac 
he perfect obedience of God's Commands is 
>oth poiliblcand profitable, and he who aim- 
th at Perfection of Obedience in this Life, 
hall attain it fully in the Life to come.lt is one 
hing to give perfect Obedience unto the Law, 
or in many things we do fin all of us: another 
hing to endeavour, according to the meafure of 
jrace given, to obey the Law perfe&ly. For, 
jod, Who hath loofed Converts, fid to Chrift, 
rom the Covenant of Works or the Covenant 
>f the Law, He hath not loofed His Subjects 
rom obedience to the Law- givcr.He hath not a- 
>oIifhed the ten Comrmnds,He hath not loofed 
he Duties of the redeemed and converted Souls, 
mt by receiving them in favour throughFaith in 
2hrift,He doth augment theirObligation toferve 
he Lord their Redeemer,fo much more chearful- 
y & carefully.as the Grace is large,in forgiving 
hem their Sins,and tranflatingthem from theSla- 
rery of Sin and £atari,into the Kingdom ofChriffc 
Again, albeit it be true, that it is impofiible 
attain perfect Obedience unto the Law, yer, 
here is great advantage to be had by circum- 
pecT: walking and aiming at perfect Obedience : 
7 or, this, 1. doth glorifie our heavenly Faiher, 
vhen we drive to be conform to His Will and 
:o have refpecT: to all His Commands. x,This 
mdeavour adornech the Goi'pel and profeiiioa 
tf #nr moft holy Faith, whereby we lay hold on 

$$ the 



B[0 O K lib [ 644 ] C H A P. x^j 

the Grace of free Juftifieation,that we may b 
come the Servahts of Righteoufnefs indeed. 
This Endeavour beareth vvicnefs of our fincei 
Defire to ferve God with all our Heart, albe 
we attain not to the perfection of obedience i 
this Life. 4 This Endeavour giveth untousdad; 
new matter of Humiliation, when inour aimin 
at our Duty, we come very fhort of our Mar 
we fhoot at. 5. This Endeavour and Short-con[ 
ing.for all we can do,maketh us defpair of feel 
J unification by works before God, and to efteei 
highly ,and make ufe by Faith of Chrift's Sati: 
faction for us imputed to us for Righteoufnef 
which is a Garment able to hide our Imperfed 
ons and Nakednefs. 6. This Endeavour 1 
walk circumfpe&ly, puts us to the Excrcife < 
ofallChriftan Graces, and to drive with othei 
and with ourfelvesto perfed: Holinefs in tt 
Fear of God. 

2. As for the fecond pretended Reafoh, th; 
tliis endeavour,to walk circumfpe&ly, may mak 
the Confcience unquiet,it*puts a foul Afperftp 
on the holy Precept of the Apoftle, Ephef y.i-i 
16, 17. who hath declared this to be a Mar 
Wifdom,and foagood I Jean of making hisCoi 
feiencequiet, and to eftablifli in itthePeace< 
Ged;For,by this endeavour to walk circumfpe<£ 
ly,Be!ievcrs inChriftare aflured, that they at| 
withourtbe reach ofCondemnatlon.becaufethe 
walk not after the flefh but after the Spirit, Ro* 
S« 1:- #cWA",this EndeavQur is the Evidence c 



BOOK III. [o'^sl CHAP. XV, 

t Good Con ciencc, which accompanietli true 
; aith.and in a manner doth guard the Cotifciencc 
romjuft Challenges which might trouble the 
ame. Thirdly, by this Endeavoiir^he Believer is 
>y a holy NecelJIry, forced to cleave clo'fs unto 

hnft,to conyerfe with Him in Heaven, that the 
dilution of Daily Sin may be wailien away, by 
lew Application of Chrifts expiatory Sac, ilice to. 
he Believer, and that Chrift may let forth more 
itreng'h to Him to walk in the way ofcornmahd- 
ted Duties.and fo the Convert may ftandjn. thq 
Irace of God. Thus the Peace of God orfcrcJ j 
nd covenanted in the Gofpel, is prefcrved in 
iim Co long as this Endeavoured" walk circunr- 
y, is entertained. >,. 

4. As for the third pretended Reafonagainft 
ireumfpeel: lYalking,asif by kChriiliatv liberty 
ball becrofftd and cut iliort,it,is a falfe Prste&ceY 
3r the contrair is true, that Chnftian-libercy 
j not hurr.but helped and prderved by circum-. 
3e& walking; For ,this is true ChrUlnvalileriyi 
3 have Allowance of the ufe of the Benefits 
prich God doth beftow with His Bleffmg, fo 
ir as may ferve our Well-fare; feeing it is noc 
point of Chriftran-liberty Hcenuoufly,by 5nt£m- 
erance to abufe Gods Benefits, and turn them 
d our own hurt. Wherpfore let our Heart be all. 
ay in the fear of God, that we may in lawful 
lanner, make ufe of lawful things neither cloth.- 
le ftady, of .Hoimcfs .nvake Recreations of 
! pdy aticf Mind .unlawful, but rcfttal 



B: 



BOOK W. [ 646 ] CHAR XVF:' 

cth immoderat and unrimeous ufe of things law- 
ful. All that Chriftian Liberty granteth untcfr 
us, is, that whether we Ear or Drink, or wha< , 
lawful thing elfe we do, we do all for the Glofc 
ry of God, 1 Cor. 10. 31. that is fo as we ma 
be ilrenghened and fet forward, to glorifie G 
in Chrift in necedary Duties. As for the ma 
ner and meafure to be kceped in the ufe 6 
things lawful, Prudence muft be asked of God 
Who will drect us in this as in other Chiiftiaj; 
Duties. 



re 



CHAP. XVI. 

Concerning the Converts Sufficion, that his foftnej. 
of Heart is nothing hut a natural Difpojition A 
weep upon any occajgon. 

WHen the Lord hath taken away frotij 
the Sinner a Heart of Stone, and harf t 
given unto him a Heart of Flefli,fo that he dan j 
not any more harden himfelfagainft the Threat fi 
nings of Gods Word, but doth tremble at th< 
hearing thereof, as fpeaketh ffaiab, 66 2. anc 
in his Prayer doth pour forth his Heart ordi 
narly with Tears, he may (as Experience hat! 
taught) fall in a fufpicion of this ordinarorfrc 
qucht melring ofHeart as ific were nothing elfi 
but a childifli or woman-like temper of Bodjjt 
and Spirit, and no evidence of Contrition fo 
fpirirua! Gfufes, which the Scripture required 
and comiiKaaeth in the penitent. 



a. Ii 



JOOKIII. [647] CHAP.XVf. 

%. In this cafe there is danger on cither H:md 
f the Convert be not wary and circumfped: in 
his condition; for, on the one hand he is in 
lazard of making light account of the Work of 
3od, Who hath taken from him the Heart of 
kone, and given him an Heart of Flcih. On 
he other Hand, he is in hazard of laying too 
nuch weight on his Tears, if once he be (atis-, 
kd about the fufpicionhe hath of his own Tears 
ind made clear, that they were Proofs and Evi- 
dences of his Sincerity in his Prayers to God. 

That there is a danger on either hand, Ex- 
perience hath taught; for, fome fincerc Con- 
certs, having entertained the Sufpicion, that 
:heir Tears in prayer proceeded from the fofc 
:emper of their natural Complexion and Diipo- 
Ition of Spirit, have refilled their Inclination 
:o mourn, and ftriven againft letting forth of 
fears fo far, that they have beoome fo cry for 
1 long time, and have prayed more perfuncSto- 
ioufly than before, that when juft Caufes of 
3rief and Tears were given unto them, they 
#ere not able to bring forth oneTear for eafing 
)f their grieved Heart. On the other Hand, Ex- 
perience hath tawght,that fome,looking upon die 
£xpreiTions of ths Saints in Scripture con- 
:erning their Tears have laid fo much weight u- 
x>n their Tears,as they have numbred inaman- 
ier,all the Drops of their Eyes,and from the le(s 
>r more quantity of them, made reckoning of their 
)Wfi better or worte condition, and of Gods Ac- 
scpt^tion of their Prayers leis or more. 5,This 




BOOK lit t 648 1 CHAP. XVI, 
3. This tendernefs of Heart, and eafmefs t< 
be moved unto Tears, for fpiritual Motives, i 
a rare Gift. Few they ate who with fenfi'T 
of the Body of Death and original Sin bearing 
them down,do lament their natural Sinfulnefs it 
their heft condition with Paul; Rom 7. 24. Feu 
iliall be found fo affe&ionat to the Glory o 
God and Salvation of Peoples Souls, as to 
out Tears both in fecret and openly, for p: 
moving thereof, as the Apoftle did, Acts 2 
19. 2t and zCor. 2. 4. Few like Timothy 
whofe Heart was fo tender, that the Apoftle^ 
could not butobferve his Tears, and remembei lr 
them, 2 Tim. 1. 4. Yet, we doubt not, thai DC: 
from Age to Agefundrybe, who by the Graa ;' 
of God have this conftantly melting Heart, ae-^ 1 
cording to the meafure of God's free Donation D; 
fomc with Tears, fome without Tears: Anil 
therefore, if there be found in fuch mourners 
an honeft endeavour to walk circunlfpedJIy, let 
not the fufpicion, that their Tendernefs is but 
natural Weaknefs of Spirit or bodily comp!exioii 
be entertained. Only let the Gfver of the Grac'c 
of a tender Heart b^relyed upon, andnottheit 
Tearsas if they were any more than Wi tneflps 
cf their honeft Affe&ion in Spiritual ExercifeS 
ior H)ch prayers may prove fincere and accept^- 
btt to God, both when they cannot mourn, 2nd 
-alfo when their Hcari (eemeth withered, hard 
and dry, : ••*' ' • '** 



CHAR 



10 OK III [ 649 ] CHAP. XVII- 
CHAP XVII. 

"jDHcermng the Converts Sufpicicn, that all hi* 
Devotion is hut Lip-labour which is not joined 
with a tender and melting Heart, and with God's 
jenfible Approbation. 

AS iome are fufpicious of their Condition, 
becaufe of their ordinar Tendernefs and 
4 iimg of Heart; {o other fome are fufpicious 
)f their condition becaute they find not their 
deart tender and Soft in their Devotion. All 
Converts do agree in this, that God muft be 
worshiped inspirit and in Truth, and that it is 
uot acceptable Worfhip to God, if a Man draw 
pear Him with his Lips,vvhen hrsHeart is far from 
iHtm: whereupon every Convctt, when he is 
(mindfull of his Duty, goeth about to worfhip 
God with Underftanding and inward Affe<5hon 
of Heart to confefs £in, deprecat Wrath, ask of 
Cod Things neceflar, interceed for others, give 
Thanks to God for His Benefits,and pra\fe Hina 
for His Works and Working,fo as his Affe&ions 
may be conform to his Expreflfions, and the Con- 
science may approve both his Words &kis hear* 
ty AfFe&ions y & Godmay, with His Peace & Con- 
folatk>n,approvethe Worfli.ppcr. But fome Con- 
verts are,who,albek in finccnty they WorfhipGod, 
yet they count all their Devotion to be but Lip- 
labour,exceptthey find their AfFedtions wakened, 
up & their Heart tender,& fome vigour of tpiri- 
fual Life in their Excrcifes,& thefcjnfcofGads ap- 
pro* 



BOOK. m. [ 6$o ] CHAP. XVII. 
Probation of their Worfliip, by giving fenfeof 
His Peace and Confolation to them in their 
worlhip, Hence oft-times doth fufpicion arife, 
without juft ground, that they are deferted of 
God ? that He isdifpleafed with them; and' this 
Sufpicion being intertained, do fend forth Com- 
plaints, and bfingeth on coldrifenefs in Prayec 
and Difcouragement. 

2. This unjuft Sufpicion of the Grace of Pray- 

cr.the Lord doth oft- times chaftife by 'withdraw! 

Peace and Comfort,and Order in Prayer and of 

Words alfo,that he who complained that his De* 

votion was but lip labour, becaufe he found noc 

fuch meafure of Affection as he would have had, 

nor that Confolation which he wifhed to have, 

{hall find himfelf in worfe taking after his Com- 

plaining,then he was in atfirft, when he began 

to fufped: his Condition. It istrue,that Confu* 

fion of Mind, and want of words toexprefs the 

Cafe wherein he is, raay fall on a Convert, by 

reafbn of Affli&ions and manifold Temptations, 

and yet he may be free from this Sufpicion of 

God's AfFedhon and Acceptation of his Perfon 

and Prayers;asthe Apofdedoth teach us. Rorn.8. 

\6 Likeivaysjhe Spirit alfo hel pet hour Infirmities; 

for we blow not what we fhoidd pray for as we eught, 

hut the Spirit itfelfmaketh intercejjion for us with 

<jroanings which cannot be uttered. ' But wheri 

this cutting fhort of the Gift of Prayer in any 

meafure, doth follow after fufpicion of Gods 

jtefpedlsRcJ Good- will toward the complaining 

and 



BOOK III [ 651 ] CHAP. XVII 
and difcouraged Convert, it is a fatherly Cha- 
ftifement from God, threatening the Convert 
with a greater meafure of Defcrtion and heavi- 
er Temptation, except he repent his Folly ani 
rerurn to God, Whom by his Sufpicion and Mi£ 
belief he hath offended. 

3. For remedy of this Evil,thtfe Five Things 
muft be diilinguifhed by the afflt&ed Convert; 
1, the Labour of the Lips,or Formality in Pray- 
er or Devotion;!. Prayer in Faith^. Prayer with 
felt and obferved Affection in Prayer; 4. Prayer 
approven of God; ?. Prayer with fenfe and Feel- 
ing of Gods approbation. 

As to the Firft the labour of the Lips,or For- 
mality in Prayer which the Scripture doth con- 
demn is when a Man prayeth with his Mouth for 
things neceflar or lawful,and is about the exter- 
nal work of Devotion, wherein he pleafeth him- 
felf,and doth reft upon the work wrought with- 
out afFe&ion of H^art or Faith, as vvc fee, If. 
58. I. x, 3. and this is not the cafe of the 
Convert of whom we are.fpeaking;for,becaufe 
he efteems his Devotion to be but a Formality, 
he is difpleafed with himfelf and is unquiet. 

As to the Second, Prayer in Faith, is when the 
Convert mifieth freedom of Speech,and anfwe- 
rable Afte&ion to his Speech in his devotion in 
Prayer, Praifes,Thankfgiving, Interceflion, &r 9 
yet, becaufe the Duty is commanded, he doth 
offer it up to God with hope of acceptation, and 
yec is difpleafed with himfelf, and hum- 
bled 



BOOK III I 6 S x ] CHAP; XVttt 

bled in the fbnfc of his coldrife AfFe&ions, 
which is the duty of the Convert of whom wo 
are fpeaking, but the not efteeming this his 
Devotion through Chrifi acceptable, is hisFault. 

As to the Third ; Prayer or Devotion with 
felt Affe&ion in difcharging it, is when the 
Conyert poureth out his heart unto God with 
freedom of Speech,and yet cannot be quiet, bc- 
caufe he doeth not feel any Sign of God's ap- 
probation of him and hearing of his Supplica- 
tion, and this was the cafe of the Pfalmtli in 
fundryPfalms. But this is not the cafe of the 
Convert we are fpeaking of; for he complainr 
eth of the Hardnefsof his Heart and want of 
Afie&ion, and dpeth weaken his own Faith, 
tahich is his Fault. 

As to the Fourth ; Prayer approven of God, 
is when the Convert doth offer liis Devotion to 
God in Sincerity, and prayeth for what is pro- 
mifed, in hope to be heard and anfwered indue 
time. And this Prayer or Devotion is approven 
by God in Scripture, whether the Convert be 
fatisfied with the meafure of anfwerabieAfFe&i* 
on to his Words,or not,as the Apoftle teftifieth, 
i Job. 5-, 14, 15. And this fliould be obferved 
by the Convert, of whom we ate fpeaking, for 
rectifying his Judgment and quieting of him, 
albeit he neither find his Afledtion moved as he 
would, qor find Confol^tiQo from God as he 
Would. 

As. to the fifth ; Prayer or Devotion, with 

the 



BOOK TIT. [ fc$ ] CHAP. XVTC 

the fenfc and feeling of God's Approbation, is 
when God not only approveth the Converts 
Prayer and Devotion,by His word in the Scrip- 
ture, but a!fo by His Spirit doth fcnfibly com- 
[fortthe Supplicant, and fends him to hisCalling 
nvithjoy. So did He deal oft-times with the 
Pfalmift David, and fo did He comfort Samuel's 
Mother, m t and after her Prayer, i Sam. i. This 
is the thing which the Convert we fpeak of 
would be at, and which would iatisfy him if 
he could come to if. 

4. This Condition is the faceted to the Sup- 
plicant, and much to be defired, with fubraiP- 
{ion to God's Difpcnfation whatfoever it be,but 
it is not the only condition acceptable to God, 
as we fee, ijob. 5. 14, 15. this is the confidence 
which we have in God, that if we ask any thing ac- 
cording to H'?s Will He heareth us, and if me know 
that He heareth us, whatfoever we ask we know we 
have the Petitions that we defired of Him. And 
that the Matter is fo, may be perceived in Dj- 
Tid's condition at fundry times; for, PfaL 119. 
(hven or eight times he prayeth, Qnkken Thou 
'■ me according to Thy Word. Hefindeth in hhnielf 
much deadnefs of Spirit, yet he continued* 
meekly praying to be quickened in the Service 
of God. 

. " 5\ Wherefore,fo oft as the Convert is difplea- 
fed for any defect he findeth in his Devotion,let 
him, i, humble himfelf in the fenfe of his Imper- 
fection, and betake himfelf fo much the more: 



% 



BO OK III. r **£ 1 CHAP. XVII. 
to rhc Interceffion of Chrift, and lay hold more 
firmly upon the Satisfa&ion made by the Medi- 
ator, and draw by Faith Grace for Grace out of 
HisFulnefs,and let him in Faith and Sincerity 
worfhip God,and liveholily in his Converfation 
and not be afraid that his Devotion (hall bee- 
eftemed of God to be but Lip-labour, z. To 
this end, let him rightly conftruc Gods Difpenfa- 
tion,and confider that His Gifts are wifely given 
forth for the Good of His People:For fomecime 
He giveth to will that which is Good, without 
ability for the'time tocffc&uat what theConvert 
willeth; He may give a willing Heart to pray 
affed:ionatly,and not for the time grant ability 
to pray as His Child would, Rom. 7. x 8. Some- 
time He may give no more but to Sigh and 
Groan, without ability to exprefs the confufed 
Defires of his Heart, Rom. 8. 26. 27. Sometime 
He will Suggelt Words.and make the Supplicant 
in fmcerity of Faith prcfent the words put in his 
Mquth,i^i4.i. 2. Sometime he will grant to 
the Supplicant to bear out much Difputationin 
his Prayers/without fenfible Confolation,F/T 77* 
Sometime he will grant the Supplicant a loqfed 
Heart in Prayer and abundance of Tcars,and yet 
fecm foratimenot to regard them. Pf.6Somc-; 
time Hs will grant Confidence and Confblation 
to the Supplicant, as Pf. 6. and many other 
ffalms. And certainly, the variety of divine DiC- 
penfation to His Children cannot be told; in all 
which,He requires of fts Supplicants meek Sub- 
mit 



BO O K HI. \ 655 ] CHAP. XVllE 
miflion,and ferfcverance in Payer, with Con- 
fidence to find a good Anfwer at la(T: For if His 
Child do not accept well of the mcafure which 
is beftowed on him, he may readily find themea- 
fure he complained of, more fcant,and confufion 
of Mind without Words to fall upon him, and if 
yet he fhall not wifely fubmit himfclf to Gods 
cxercifingofhim, he may fall in harder Trouble 
and qucflioning of his ftatc in Grace, and be 
tempted to reftrain Prayer till he ceafe com- 
plaining, and fly for refuge to Chrift the Media- 
tor, and come to a better Eftimation of the mea- 
furc of prefence with Him whei he began ml 
complain: 

CHAP. XVIIL 

Concerning the Converts looking upon the Fifht of 
his Faith, as if it were thefailingof his Faith, 

Sincere Faith in Chrift is the fpecial Grace 
of God, given to the EIe& only; which 
Grace, the more we do cxercife it, the more we 
pleafe God: For without Faith it is impoffiblc 
to pleafe Him, Hek t r. 6. This faring Grace 
the Lord taketh pleafure to put it unto Try- 
al and Exercife, that thereby He may train it 
on, and fofter and increafe it,and bring it forth 
to lighr, both for His own Glocy and for the 
commendation of His Children, as is told u s 1 
Feu. 7, In which Exercife, the true ©onvW 

is 



BOOK HI. [ 6$6] C H A P. XV1IT, 

is oft-times much miftaken, and doth mif-coa- 
(true hisCondition.The Reafbns are, i. the Faith 
of young Converts is very imperfect,Kn6\vledge 
is many ways darkened, and the Application of 
Promifes is very Weak. z.When Satan by his 
Tentations obfcuas toe Truth, which fhould 
ftrengthen Faith,rhe Convert finding himielfin 
the Mrft,may be at a {land. till his fight be cleared 
up and he freed from the Tentation. jfthc fin- 
cere Converc.in the Conference of bis own Imper- 
fection and confideration of the Deceitful nefs of 
the Heart.is wary and fufpicious, that he may 
be eafily deceived,and take Hiftorfcal or Tem- 
poral Faith for true Saving Faith, and (b doth 
readily lay hold on Satan's Suggefiions againfl: 
the Sincerity of his Faith. 4. tp the Conflid:, 
which his Faith oft-times hath with Mif-belief, 
ftrengthened by^Satans Tentationsjie finds him- 
felf now and then foiled by yeildihg unto the 
Suggeftion of SataniasD^Wj- Experience teach- 
cth may befall both the elder and younger Soul- 
diers. Pf. 116. 11. I faid in my ha(ie,all Men are 
Lyars,tn£Z\\\ug San.uel and other Prophets, who 
promifed to David in God's Name he fltoiild be 
King. 5 .In the Fight of Faith, (ome infirmity is 
always manifefted,and the Convert is forced to 
acknowiedge,that his Faith is not fo ilrong as lie 
fuppofed it to be before the Fight, whereupon 
he is ready to (ufped: his tight inTaith to be ; 
a" fainting and dec. raith.6 : the 

Convert by : giving -waj (o Sin, tioih'grieve the 

Hoi 



BOOKm. [ 657 ] CHAP. XVIII, 

holy Spirt, and provoke Him to withdraw His 
comfortable Teftimony, which He gave in for- 
mer time to the Convert, which bringeth him 
into Suipicion of the Sincerity of hfis Faith, 
which feemed to himlelf found and unfaincd 
before. 

2. This Cafe is both troubteforhe to the Con* 
vert and dangerous; for till it be cured,it grovv- 
cth like a taking Fever and fets upon the Vi- 
tal Power of Jultifying Faith, and at lead hin- 
dereththe Exerciie thereof not a little. 

For Remedy whereof, let the affii&ed Con- 
vert put difference between an Infirm Faith, and 
Felt Infirmity in Faith fighting 3 For albeit the 
Convert, in the Conflict of Faith againft Ten- 
tations to Mil belief, do feel Infirmity, yet is 
not his Faith to be accounted infirm (imply, be- 
caufe whatfoever Infirmity he feels in his Fight, 
yet his fighting againft Tentations proveth his 
Faith to be fo much the ftronger as he refitted* 
Mif belief and cleaveth clofer to Chrft. 

2. Let him confider, that the Lord fuffereth 
His Child to be exercifed with Tentations, of 
fet purpofe to humble him, and empty him of 
all Confidence in his own Wifdom, Righteouf- 
neis and Strength, that he may gather Strength 
in hitf fighting, by Scripture, holden up to 
God in Prayer, and fo wax valiant in Fight, 
as Believers have been helped before, Heh. 

3, Let 



B OOK m. [ 65% ] CHAP. XVIIL 

3 . Let the Convert put difference between 
Fanh and a fetled Perfwafion: For fctlcd and full 
Per fwafion excludes all Dubitation for the time, 
but faving Faith may be where Doubting is 
and Unbelief is felt; as the Father of the pof- 
fefled Child in his Prayer to Chrift maketh ma- 
nifeft, Lord, 1 believe, faith he, help my unbelief. 

4. Let him put difference between Dubitati- 
on (uggefted, and Faith driving to overcome 
Dubitation: for Dubitation bewrayeth infirmity 
of Faith, but ftirving againft Dubitation, doth 
evidence Life and Vigour in Faith to beprefent a 
and is acceptable Service to God. 

3. Let him put difference between the doubt- 
ing of the Truth of the Promifeand the weak 
griping of it; for he that doubts of the Truth of 
the Promift is, (Jam. 1,6.7.) l&c a Wave of the 
Sea, and can expe<5t nothing. But he that layes 
hold on the promife, with a trembling Hand, 
and ftriveth to hold it faft againftdoubting,may 
expedito obtain. 

6. Let him put difference between his Su- 
fpicion of tlie failing of his Faith and the right 
judging of it:For,in the mean time of his fight- 
ing and fear of Failing, he goeth on in exer- 
cife of Faith,fearing to fuccumb,yet refolutenot 
to depart from Chnft: In the Love and Eltima- 
tion of Whofe Grace, he goeth on and growcth 
longing for the vidtory and for a nearer feltfel- 
lowflrip with Him; which if he did obferve and 
eonfider, his Judgement ihould be rectified. 



ft O K HI [ 6^9 ] CHAP. XViIl.* 
Laft of all, let him put difference between 
ft hafty Apprehcnfion of the failing of his fjkitjai 
and a fixed opinion that hisFaith is butFancy:For 
a ftrong Souldier may be furprized on a tuddeni 
('as D*W, Pf, jr. ax. and Ff ii6. 12. and 
Jonah, i. 3, 4 doth furnilh iqftancpl ) who 
fhortty after did gather their Courage and en- 
tered the Lifts afreffi, and became Victorious a- 
gainft their Tentations unto misbelief. , 

Therefore let the VVreftler be of good 
Courage ; for nothing can prove the Sin- 
cerity of his Faith more then his Wreftiing a> 
gainft Diftruft, and his looking towards Chrift 
through all the Clouds which hinder his fight, 
and his forrowing for his Unbelief, for his weak 
holding. grip of the Covenant of Grace, and for 
his inability to glorifie the Truth or* the . Gofpcl;- 
and Rich Grace of God offered in Chrift ; Eipe-. 
cially when he confidereth, that the Spirit of 
Chrift commendeth the exercife of Faith with 
variety of Temptations, for a matter of great 
toy, Jam. i. &. 3. 

CHAP, XfX. 

Zoncernin^ the Convert straitening his Charity t6- 
ward others, more then he did at the fir li time of 
hisGonverfion ? conceivin^ his former larger Chart* 
ty, was unwarrantable Folly, 



A 



LI Converts rmift agree to Chrifts faying^ 
fib iy I5*£y this /ball all Mep know >t bat 
T t p 



BOOK III. [ 660 ] CHAR XlX- 
ye are My'Difciples if ye have love one ^to another* 
No Man doubtcth of thishisDuty in general;but t 
fundry make queflion about the exercife and ex- 
preilion of their Chariry : For, fooie conceive, 
that their former Charity (in the matter of judg- 
ing of others, and in the matter of AiTedhon to 
others, and in the matter of actual Exprefliooi 
of their Charity) hath been ill beftowed toward i 
unworthy and ill deferring Ferfons. And this 
they reckon to have been Folly; and therefore 
do refolve todifpofe cf their Judgement, Aflfc- 
&ion and good Deeds more prudently then they 
have dene, that their charitable Eftimation,Af- 
fecSion and ExprefTion actual fhall be drawn 
forth toward the worthy and well-deferring Dil- 
ciples of their Acquaintance, thus they condemn 
for Folly what was right indeed. The main 
Pretences of Reafon for their Refolution, are 
Two. The Ftr/lis, becaufe they perceive ma* 
ny whom they judge Wife and Godly, to ex- 
clude from the number of Believers, or Difciptes 
of Chrilt all in whom the evident Signs of Re-< 
generation do not appear, and fo do chink they 
may draw the Circle of their Charity in ftrait & 
narrow bounds, and may (Buri to keep Churcb- 
feliowfhip in the pure Ordinances ofChnfl witli 
any, iave apprcven vifible Saints. The Other 
Pretence is, becaufe they have found themselves 
oft-times deceived by thofc,of whom fometime 
they have entertaiaed good Thoughts, and n? 
fm&ll Eilimarien. 

g, A »l 



book m; r 66* ] chap. xix 

i. AS for the Fir(l Pretence, it belongs to 
the quefiion of the Conflirution of vifiblc 
Churches, whether it be founded upon vifiblc 
Sandiityor Evidences of Regeneration, or upto'ri 
vifible entering in the external Covenant of 
Grace, and PfofefHon of Subjection to the Da- 
£rine and Difcipline of Chriil. Of which Que- 
ftion, there is enough written by learried and 
godly Men, and in this place it doth not fail in 
conveniently to be difputed. 

% Concerning the Other Pretence, of being 
oft-tirries deceived by fiindry, fuch a:$ were un- 
worthy of refpe£;wc grant, that there are many 
Hypocrites who pretend rei be Saints, and wor- 
thy to be blamed in that refpedt : And it is no 
wonder.that theCharityof many Wax cold, when 
lb many (peak vanity, every Man to his Neigh- 
bour, Pf. i i.i. for this our Lord foretold, ^/,?/- v 
14. iz. Becaufe iniquity jhall ahound ', the Love of 
many jball wax cold. Yet, it is not juftiftable 
to cut Charity ihort, becaufe of Mens ill-defer* 
Ving; Rivers of Tears, faith David, run down my 
Eyes, becaufe they kept riot Thy Commands. Here 
is Love to God's Glory, and pky toward pe« 
riihing Souls ; fuch Mourners were fpared in the 
day of God's Wrath, Ezck, 9 f. 

1. Ob. But fome may fay, the fame Pfilmifl 
did hate the Wicked and Prophage Anfi, But 
he did fo with a perfect Hacred, not With a car- 
ggj[ tfnd carrupt Hatred againft their Prions, 

T c i but 



BOOK 111/ [ 66% ] CHAP. XOG * 

but with a rpjritual and fncere hatred, tending 
to the aboiilliing. of their Vice and Safety of their y l 
Pcrfons : for which end the Pfalmtfl prefcncecli ^ 
his AfFe&ionstobe examined of God, and teach- ^ 
cth Men, by his Example,topurifie their Hearts r 
in bating Sinners. z,Put cafe, that God did re- 
veal unto the Prophet the Rrptobation offome 
Enemies of God, for whofe Perdition he pray 
ed in? (andry Pfalms, tint the Juftice of Go 
might be manifefted, and the Church preferved 
from their Malice. This his Practice is not to 
be imitat by them who know not of wh it Spi- 
rit they are, and cannot juitfie before God the 
Integrity of theirHearts in the particular. 

2. Oh. But, put Cafe, tauh one, that lam a 
civil Judge, fliall my Charity hinder Jufuce and 
cutting off Malefactors, Man- flayers, or others 
fuch-hke >Anf Not ; for Charity to the- Male- 
factor may (land with the Love of Juftice and 
Common*wealth y when the Malefactor is ad- 
judged to Death. For, when Jojbua was to de- . 
ftroy Achan, he exhorted him to repent and give 
Glory to God, that his Soul might be faved, 
]of. 7. 19. Likeways the Prophets,, when they 
denounced the Deftru&ion of Cities* and Nati- 
ons, had melting Hearts in eompaifion toward 
them who were Condemned by God, If 16. 
xi. Jer. 48. 36. and Chrift our Lord, Chanty 
it felf, weeped for the Mifery o[]eruJalem y de- 
ilinatjuftlycQ Dciliuotion, Math. 23. n* 



eOOKUI [ 663 ] CHAP, XIX. 

3 Ob But. (fauh he) a fpecial regard mud be 
had toward Believers in the exercifc of Charity 
GiL 6. io. Anf It is true; but the A pottle's 
Words are, As we have opportunity, let us do good 
unto all Men, ejpccially unto them that are of the 
J/ou/btUof Faith. WhichHouihold confitleth of 
all them who byProfeffion have fnbjcdred them- 
felves to the Dodtrinc and Difcipline of Chrift, 
aad are Members of the vifible Church. 

4. Obj. But (faith he) as all that are oflfrael, 
arc not the Ifrael of God, Rom. 9. 6. So ail that 
are in the viiible Church, are not of the Houf- 
liold of God« Anf.Who hath made thee a Judge 
cither to difcern who are Eledfr,who not? or 
to difcern what (hall become of this Man oc 
that Man, whereby thou may abandon Charity 
toward him ? God hath given to us His Spirit, 
faith the Apoftle, that we may know what £a* 
ving Grace he hath given to our/elves, but not 
to know what he harh beftowed on others. 1 Cor. 
a. ro. 11. God who only fearcheth the Secrets 
of all Hearts, hath refcrved the Judgements of 
Mens Hearts to Himfelf, and He alone candid 
>cern who is the Hypocrite, and in whofe Heart 
there is no guile. 

5. O^.But (faith he) the Judgement of Cha- 
rity is not blind, but fliould be according as the 
the Truth is; otheAvays, 1 fhail efteem a Man 
a true Convert,who is not Regenerat,and fo de- 
ceive my felf. Anf. The Judgement of Chari- 
ty, concerning other Mens inward Eftate and 

T c x Co^ 



BOOK. III. I 664 3 CHAP. xix. ; 

condition,is n$t orje always with the Judgement 
according to Verity; for, the Rule of the Judge- 
ment of Charity, is Equity and commanded Qu- 
tyjrefervjng the Judgement accqrding to Verity "L 
to God. For this diiiinc^ion the Apoftlc gives 
ground, ThiL 1. 6. 7. in Charity judging all 
the Vhihppians to be fincere Converts; he faith 
his Speech and Intimation of them was according 
as xoas meet for him to think-Now equity requi- 
red, that lip fhould judge the belt of them all, 
albeit he did not know, the Hearts of them all 
as he Gpth, \Cor, 13. 7. Charity believeth all 
things, hopeth all things \endureth all things. But 
for the judgement of other Mens Eftate and Con- 
dition in praps, according to Verity, hedoth 
forbid Men to judge before the time, 1 Cor. 4. 3.$ 
Eow.iA.^Jam^izAnd 1 Pet.5.11. the Apoftle, 
fpeaking in Charity of Sylvanus, faieh, l^e is 4 
faithful Brother, as I fupppfe. %. If we fee it our 
EKityto fhow Charity to our Neighbour, what* 
foever he be, our Charity is not blind, hut cleat 
lighted. 

6. Oh. But (faith he) Mens Profanity Wick- 
ednefs and Atheifn,may clearly be feen,for the 
Fja/m//} faith the Tranfqreffion of theWickedfaitb 
within my Heart y that there is no. Fear of God he; 
fore bisEyesiPl. 36. 1. and Chrift fpeaking of 
Fa ife Prophets, Mat. 7. nj. fai;h, T^fhallknop.. 
them h their Fruits. 

^pVhatthe Prophet faith by the Spirit ? and 

what Ghrift faith is true; and vye grant, that 

■''" " ' ' ' Meni 



BOOK III [66s] CHAP. XIX. 
Mens ill Deeds and corrupt Do&rine,do bewray 
their Naughty inward Difpofition : But what 
fcrveth this to juftifie thy rafh Judgement of 
of thy Brother, that there is no faving work of 
Grace in him, becaufe they cannot perceive the 
evident Signs thereof in him, in whom poflibly 
thou cannot find any reigning Vice,or open out- 
breaking Scandals ? What doth this ferve to 
hinder Expreflions and Fruits of Charity toward 
open Sinncrs,fo long as God waitcth patiently 
on their Repentance? It is one thing to be wary 
left we be infe&ed with the Contagion of Mens 
ill Manners or corrupt Do&rinc; another thing 
to cut them off from being the Obje&s of out 
Charity. 

7. Ok But we are forbidden (Taith he) to have 
Followfliipwith Sinners who may intifeustoSin, 
Pro. 1. n. and to make Friendship with an an- 
gry Man. Pro. i%. zq. 

Anf. This Warinefs may confift with Charity; 
For, albeit we cannot be Partakers with evil 
Workers, or enter in needlefs Familiarity with 
thofe with whom we cannot converfe and be free 
jof Damnage from them,yet we may not exclude 
.them from the objedof our Charity, or carry 
our fcWes fo toward them, as they can take no 
good from our hand; For,fo long as we live in 
the World, we muft follow Peace with all Men 
and Holincfs, Heb 9 i%.i^. 1 Cor. 5. io. 

8. Ohj. Albeit it be true, that we muft in com- 
mon Duties of Civility and Humanity grudenc- 






BOOK III. [666] CHAP. XI5& 
ly behave our felves, yet we muft carry other* 
ways to profe/fed Chriftians, if their Conven- 
tion be grofly fcandalous; for,with luch we arc 
forbidden to Eat,i Cor. 5 11.' 

Attf. This place pertains totheExercife of the 
Key of Difcipline,and execution of theCcnfurc 
of Excommunication judicially pronounced by 
the Church; as Ver. 11. following,doth declare,, 
And tlis.as it doth not cut off natural Duties of 
Parents, or Chiidren,or Parties married one to ano- 
ther: (b it can well confift with Charity toward 
the Excommunicato who, in order to his Salva- 
tion Jhou'Jd be thus dealt with, that he may be 
humbled & brought to Repentance; And fo doth 
the Apcfllegive VVarrand^for when he-hath g ven 
order toExcommunicat fuch as walk difordcrly, 
k 7%e(T 3'. 1 4. 1 5 he fubjoines,for keepingCharity 
to the Excoinmuriicat Perfon, faying, Count him 
not as an Enemy, hut admonifk him as a Brother. 

9! Oh But 1 ( faith he ) have been miftaken 
and deceived qft- times when 1 efleemed Chari- 
tably of Tomejeved them dearly, and beftow- 
cd not fparingly on thofe who proved afterward 
unworthy of iuch Refped: and Dealing. 

4nf Our Lords words may fatisfie this Ob- 
jection, 'promifingj whatfoevcr' is done to a 
Difcip/e, in name of a Qifciple, iliali not want 
a RcwardThou therefore needs not count thy 
fclf deceived in this refpect. But if thou by 
rafh intruding thy felf to judge belter or worfe 
of the Maris inward Condition, hath deceived 



BOOK III. [ 667 } CHAP. XX 

thy felf,be more wife in time coming.For Reme- 
dy of this Evil, 1. let not the Convert, miftakeri 
in the point of Chariry, be feared to be mifta- 
ken and hindered from Exercife of his Charity, 
becaufe he knovvcth not the fincerity of the 
Man's Profeflion : There are Relations enough 
between him and the Party toward whom Cha- 
rity is to be exerciled, fuch as Bonds Natural, 
Civil, Ecclefiaftick and Spiritual, obliging to the 
Duty. 2. Let him be fparing in judging of his 
Neighbour.even within himfelf,and far more in 
expreffing his Judgement of him to his preju- 
dice. 3. Let him rather judge this, that he lay 
ho Humbling Block before his Feet, which may 
hinder him in a good, or harden him in an evil 
Courfe, Rom. 14. 13, Let him not be Rigid 
and Cenforions in aggrcging every finful Infir- 
mity in his Neighbour.for this is forbid den, Jam. 
3. i,x. In a word, let a Convert beware to alienac 
any Man from making ufeofhisCharicy,whethec 
by injuft Sufpicibn of him, or Inhumane 
Dealing with him, or imprudent Speeches of 
him,but rather let his whole Carriage toward all 
in every cafe be fuch,that a patent Door may be 
for mutual giving & getting good one by another 

CHAP. XX. 
Concerning the Converts nriftaklnghls Condition, he' 

caufe of felt in- lake in his Charity and Love io t 

God And Men. 
k T'therto we havefpokenof Two forts of the 
JL JL Converts miftaking of their Cendition,artd 

have 



BOOK III. [ 66% ] CHAP. XX> 

have given fome Inflances of their being well 
pleafed with themfelves in an evil condition ; 
and fome Inflances of their being difpleafcd with 
themfelves in a good Condition. It follows, 
that we give fome Inflances of a Third fort of 
Miflaking in the Converts complaining of his 
conditions if it were altogether evil, when in- 
deed his condition is partly good and partly evil; 
& the Firfl (hall be of thofe who do lament their 
condition, becaufe they cannot be afte&ed with 
the fenfe of their Sins, nor with the fenfe of 
Gods Benefits and Favours bellowed on them, 
as they fhould, cannot be affe&ed with the fenfe 
of threatened Judgements as is required, and can- 
not be affe&ed with the fenfe of the Miferies 
and Mercies difpenfed toward others,and cannot 
come up to the Obedience of the Apoftles Pre- 
cept, to rcjoyce with them that rcjoyce, and to 
mourn with them that mourn, which doth fo af- 
flict them, as they reckon this their condition 
altogether evil,and are near untoDifcouragment, 
becaufe of their apprehended Hardncfs of Heart. 
x.For Remedy of this Evil, i.Iet the Convert 
eonfider, that the Hardnefs of Heart whereof 
he complains, is not that Hardnefs of Heart 
which the Scripture calletli hardnefs of Heart : 
For the Scriptures do not charge any Man of 
this Sin who .lamenteth his Sinfulnefs, but thofe 
who do not acknowledge their Sins, and go on 
in them when they hear them reproved, mif-re- 

garding what God fatfh,cqmmandeth, coipmen- 

deth 



BOOK III ['669] CHAP. XX. 

or threateneth. Mean time we do not deny,but 
thofein-lakes whereof the Convert doth com- 
plain,are finful Defe&s of Duty, and Inclination 
of corrupc Nature unto hardnefs of Heart. But 
we deny, that this defect lamented, is charged 
in Scripture for Hardnefs of Hcart.x.Let the Con- 
vert confider the difTerence between the Evif 
whereof he complaineth, and the good Gift of 
God pointing out that Evil unto him, and mak- 
ing him to difallow it and lament it, and he 
{hall find his condition not altogether evil, but 
fuch as he hath caufe to be humbled in himfelf 
for it, and alfo to blefs God for difcovering this 
Defed:,and making him lament it. 3. Let him 
confidcr, that his lamenting his coldrife Affecti- 
on to God and his fmall Companion toward 
Men,is good and commendablc;for this lamen- 
ting the Defect beareth witnefsof his Will and 
Detire toward the Duty, and in effed: is a part 
of the Exercife of Repentance, and of begun 
Renovation of his Heart. 4. Let liim confider, 
that there may be made good ufe of this condition 
both for the Exercife of hqmility,becaufe of felt 
Pefe&s of needful Graces,& alfo for the Exercife 
of Faith in Chrift, by application of His impu- 
ted Rightcoufnefs, which hideth the Nakedr»efs 
of felt Defects, and drawing vertue from Chrift 
to San&ifieand renew the Heart more and more. 
5. And laft of all, let the Convert under the 
fenfe of this Defect in his affection, ftudy to 
bring forth the effects of thofe affections^ that 

ft 



B OOK HI. f 676 ] CHA P. XXI. 

is to fay Jet him go about to do the work of a 
Lover of God,in having refped to all Hi« Com- 
niandmehts,and to do the work of a compaffio- 
nat affedtion toward Men in MiferyofSou 
or Body, and fo what feems to him inlaking 
in his Heart fliall be found forth-coming in his 
Hand and A&ions for the greater Glory Jo God 
and Edification of his Neighbour. 

CHAP. XXI. 

Concerning the Converts defpifing of his own Exer- 
cifes of Religion, lecaufe of his felt Canity of 
Mind therein. 

A LI true Converts do agree in this principle, 
that God fhould be worfhiped in Spirit 
and Truth, and that the more a Man ftrive to 
befincereand upright in his Wor(hip 3 the left 
can he comport with the Sin which dotti hinder 
his Worfhip.When therefore a true Convert doth 
perceive in himfelf fo great Levity of his 
Thoughts, that in the very time of hearing Ser- 
mon, praying to God, or Tinging ofPfalms, his 
mind runneth out to think of naughty & profane 
Things,impertinent,idle and fooliih Matters,un- 
worthy of his Thoughts at any time, but moft 
untirnous and finful in the time of Divine Ser- 
vice, he is fo difpleafed with his condition, that 
lie condemns all the Service and Devotion he is 
about for the time, and cafts it away as altoge- 
ther polluted ; and if he find this Sicknefs from 

jftX 



BO OK HI. [ $71 ] CHAP. XXT ; 

day to day clciving fad unto him,hc fallcth in 
Difcouragcment, and in queftion with himfclf 
whether it be better to break off" at left in fe- 
cret fuch ragged Worfliip, or to go on to offer; 
the Sacrifice of a Fool unco God:For,fo he doth 
efteem of his Devotion, thus leavened with 
Vaiging and Vanity of his Mind. 

In this cafe, the Convert doth not only mif- 
regard what is right in his Devotion,or Divine 
Service, but alfo by Freethg, Difcouragemcnc 
and Mif behaviour of his Spirit.is ready toaug^ 
ment his finful Condition, and to provoke the 
Lord to be wroth with him indeed. 

x. For Remedy of this evil, let the Convert 
judge wifely of his Condition, that he charge 
not himfclf with guiltincfs mote then lie ought 
to do, and that he may takca right courfe to 
be free of Guiltinefs,and healed of thisSicknefs 
where Guiltinefs is found.And to this end 1. let 
him putdifference between Vaiging of Mind, 
With interruption of Worfliip, and the natural 
courfe of hisPhatitafjeand Under(landing,whicfi 
may confift with the continued ads of Worihip^ 
for as the? Eyes of a Man,running to fome place, 
cannot choofc but fee every vifible thing in his 
way, and yet runneth on without (laying till he 
come to the place he aimeth at;fo t&e Phantafie 
andUnderftanding,canhot choofe but take up.and 
difcern whatfoever is offered unrothemin time of 
P rayer from the outward Senfes,or from the Me- 
frjory,& yet ma,ke no irtferrupciqg of Praycr ; fucli 



B OOK III. [ 6 7 i] C H A P. XX\ 

is the natural Agility of a Man's Mind;and there- 
fore this natural courfe of Imagination orPhatt- 
taiic,muft not be charged as Guiltinefs upon the 
Worfliiper, who followeth on the work of wor- 
ship notwithftanding, z. Sundry, Suggeftions 
may Be caft into the Converts Mind by Satan 
to marr his Worfhip, which muft be charged on 
£atan chiefly ,and the Worfhipcr not alway made 
guilty thereby. 3 When the worihip indeed is 
interrupted, and tne Mind fallerh off from the 
work of Devotion, or Divine Service,, and en- 
teretli upon Difcourfes about vain, vile, or im- 
pertinent Matters, let the Convert not only ac- 
knowledge guiltinefs here, but alio examine, 
if this his vaiging of Mind in Prayer and Divine 
Service, be not alfo a Chaftifcment from God, 
for his not acknowledging of God in his Affairs, 
and for loofing Reins to his Mind to rpave all 
the Day, which jiftly meeteth him at Night ia 
his Devotioti, a:s a Rod on his back for his vo- 
luntar vaiging from God in his former Walking. 
3. Thefe Confiderations being premifed, and 
the Sins which have drawn on this evil being 
difcovered, and the power of indwelling- fin 
perceived, and the power of Satans Temptations 
noticed, and the Lords chaftifeing Rod juftified, 
and his own Culpable infirmity acknowledged; 
1. Let him humble himfclf and fly ro the rich 
Grace ofGod offered in Chrift, and lay ftrdhger 
hold on the fattefa&orimade by Chrift,and im- 
puted tp' all Believers in Him, that Guiltinefs 



BOOKtn. M43] CHAP. XXI. 

may be, by free pardon removed. 2. Let him 
pray for more Afliftance of the holy Spirit in 
all the Excrcifes of Religion,and expect a graci- 
ous granting thereof, in Gad's wifeDifpenfati- 
onof the mcafurcof his Grace in the u(e ofho- 
Jy Ordinances. 3. Let His Heart be in the fear 
of the Lord all the day long, making him lift up 
his Eyes from time to time to God in the midft 
of his lawful Affairs, how mean focver. 4-Lee 
him gather his Thoughts before every religi- 
ous Exercifc, byway of preparation, left he take 
the Name of the Lord in vain, by rafli andun- 
revereut rufhing in upon divine Scrvice.j Let him 
thank the Lord for granting him Grace to fee 
his finfol vaigingof Mind, and to be difpleafcd 
with it, and to confefsit. 6. Let him be com- 
forted in the Lord Who gatberetfr the ragged 
and fcattered honcft Defircs of Supplicants, and 
taketh away the Iniquity of the Service of Hit 
Clients,as our high Prieft,bearing,in Hisappear- 
ing for us, as it were, on His Fore- head, Holt* 
nefs unto the Lor J. 

CHAR XXII. 

Concerning the Convert's Difcouragement forfeit 
want of ability to Jo the Duties commanded, 
nhe+eunto bis renewed Will is very bent. 

SUndry true Converts, findings Will ro do 
that which \% good but nor finding power 
Ijew c* perform that which \% good,d© fail in di£ 

quiets 



BOOK III. [ 674 1 GHA P. XKi 

quietnefs and difcouragement When theyflioulcl 
go and feek to make good ufe of their Infirmity,, 
and go to Chrift for Remeed,as the ApolHe did, 
Rom. 7. 18. 

The Caufe of this Evil is, the Relidte of Cor- 
rupt Natural Inclination to feek to be Juftified 
by Works,and to have in our hand ability to do 
the Good which we would do; for, albeit the 
Convert be forced to feek Rccontilation with 
God by Remiffion of Sins in his Converfion,yet 
in his courfe toward Heaven and Salvation, hq 
defireth to have aStore-houfe and Treafure of 
Strength in himfelt,tobe made ufe of as hewilr 
eth. For it feemech to him, in his caraal Wif- 
dom,a poor fllift to be,in every good A&ion,put: 
to beg fupply fromChnli byPrayer,and to ftand 
Waiting oh in adependance or* Ghrift,till Furni* 
ture come frGm Heaven unto him. Which Fur- 
niture of Strength , becaufe our, Lord dothfu-? 
fpend to give, till His infirm and humbled Child 
hold up his ; FL?Kta$ an empty VeiTel to receive 
Influence from Him, according to His wife Plea- 
fure, the inconfiderat Convert doth trouble him- 
fclf and falletto in a D;ftemper:;> 
.. 1. This cafe is not. altogether Evil, as tho 
Convert doth take it; but this, much is right, 
that he looks upon the Law as^Holy, Spiritual 
and Good, that he defirech earneitly to obey it; 
and that he loaths himieif for his felt uneonfor* 
mity unc^ it;Yet,this is wrong i| hjm,that he dotli 






m 



BOOK III. [ 6 7 s ] CHAP. XXIL 

not humble himfclf, but iscaft down and dif- 
couraged,that he doth not make Chrift his £an- 
rfiiflcation as well as his Riglucoulnefs,that he 
doth not confider of the Furniture to be brought 
unto him from Heaven by Faith in Chrift, and 
that this Grace is nearer and more ready to (er vs 
his turn,then i( it were in his own hand. 

3. Therefore let him renounce more and more 
all confidence in his own Rightcoufnefs with 
the Apoftle,F£//. 3, 8, 9. let him Thank God 
in Chrift, in Whom an out-gate is to be found 
in all Difficluties. Row. 7. 25-. let him truft 
Chrift for fupply in all Service, in Whom if a 
Mian abide, he {hall bring forth much Frurt,and 
without Whom he can do nothing, Job. 15. 5. 
For if he depend on Chrift in his Emptinefsand 
Weakncfs he {hall find by Experience, that when 
he weakeft, then he is ftrongeft. 

CHAP. XX11L 

Concerning the Gpnvert's imprudent cenfure ofhini- 
feoffor felt Ingratitude. 

^Ome Converts iometime, do pafsrafli Sen- 
^ tence agjunft themfelves for Ingratitude, 
aamely when after receiving fome notabie Bene- 
jt.for which they had made earneft fupplicatiori 
:oGod,and for which,before the -receiving of the 
benefit, they had obliged* thsrnfelves by Vo.w. 



u« 



to 



BOOKltt. [676] CHAP.XXfJ 

to a thankful acknowledgement of the Favour 
prayed for,they find themfelves come (hort of 
their purpofed,promifed % and hoped forchearful- 
nefsand Alacrity in Praifing and Thanking the ' 
Lord;vvhereupon they notonly fall in Heavinefs, < 
but alio in a fort of Indignation againft them- 
Te)ves,and quarrelous complaining of their cort^ 
dition,and by this means,are fo far from perform* 
ing their Vows, that by rheir imprudence, the/ j 
do involve themfelves in no fmal! Guiltinefs i ' 
And for thisDiftemper of Mind and Indignation ' 
againft themfelves, they conceive themfelves to 
have juft Reafon; partly,becaufe they find their j 
Rejoycing in God,and Thankfgiving to Him, for l 
the Benefit received, nothing anfwerable to their ' 
earned praying for it;partly becaufe the Beneficjl 
received feems to them to have loft much of the 
Eftimation it had before they did receive it;part* 
ly,becaufe they find even that fmall meafure of 
Joy, at the receiving or the Benefit after fome few 
days to grow cold and likly to evanifh. Hence 
doth 6'ufpicion begin to get footing in rhem,rha£ 
for their ingratitude the Lord is angry wittf 
thcm,& hath beftowed the Benefit onf them,notirj 
Mercy but in Wrath.and fothey fall in cheguit 
tinefs of Ingratitude more and more. 

%. For rsmovrngof this Evil, Five practical 
Erra?s> muft be removed, which ordinarily cont- 
our <rf this Sicknefs. The Firfl is this, the Af* 
ffid d f fa his promiilng -into God to be thank-* ' 
fill, will oe found to have bad tQ9 much con* 

fidcacd 



BO OK 1ft [ 6 77 ] C HA P. XXIII. 

fidence in his own Strength; trufting.that in his 
*|le(olution, his Heart could not but melt in the 
, fenfe of the Mercy granted. And this appearetht 
by his Indignation againtl himfclf,when he fin- 
deth, that in his Refolution his Heart hath de- 
ceived him ; as if he had expected the Benefit 
.from God, and the Thankfgiving from himieif ; 
, Whereas he ihould have diib'nguifhwd thefetvvo 
Benefits to wit, the Gl r t prdyed for, and the 
Thankfgiving for it, and Ihould have depended 
, upon God for bellowing of both: For the Grace 
ofthankfulnefs for a Benefit asked and received, 
is greater then the Benefit prayed for ; which if 
the Affli&ed had confidered well, he fhoulcf 
have humbled himfeif before God for his not; 
j performance of his Duty, ratker then fallen m 
| a proud quarrelling for his Inability to be thankful, 
3. The fecond Error is an unequal cornpari* 
fon between the defire he had to obtain the Be- 
nefit, and the rejoycing in God for the Benefit 
received; for, the defire to obtain the Bene* 
fit,oft> times hath in it a great meafureof natural 
I ami carnal Appetite, and feeking of fome part of 
*Self-perfe&ion; but the rejoycing in God.whicb 
;the Convert purpofed to orfcr for the Benefit, is 
fpiritua'l.And we are rr.uch more inclined ro fcek 
(thefe things which pertain to the Commodity of 
[this Life, then to perform Spiritual Duties; fo 
that it is not to be wondered at, when out De- 
fires, in part natural, are not followed withe- 
'Aual Affection Spiritual. 



BO O K IU. [ 678 ] CHA P. xxm. 

4. The third Error is,when the Convert doth 
not puc difference between the Eilimation of 
the Benefic,and the Joy in God for bellowing of 
it, but meafureth rhem with the tame Line, not 
confidering that Eftimation is the a# of the In- 
tellect and Judgment. and that Joy is the ad of 
the AiKxftion; and both of them in this cafecx- 
errifed about divers Objects : The Eilimation 
refpe&ing the Benefit itfelf. the AfFcclion of 
rejoycing in God Who did bellow it.refpedhng 
the Giver of the Benefit.Now the Eftimation of, 
and delighting in theBenefrt may be lefs or more, 
while the Eftimation of God's Goodnefs, in be- 
llowing of it, remaineth the fame And therefore i 
the Convert fliould not charge himfelf for lake 
of Eilimation of God and His Gifts, albeit h* 
feel much variety in the refpe&ivc Motions of 
iiis Affe&ions* 

5-. The Fourth Error is, when the Convert ;J 
counts all the Efiimatioa of, and Thankfgiving 
for the Benefit, temporal or fpirirm! received, 
as nothing, becanfe it is not anfwerable to. t lis 
worth of what is received, or to the kindnefs of 
God who hath granted it: Which reafon if it 
were of weight, there ihould be no acceptable « 
Thankfgiving from any Saint on Eirtb, during 
this pieicnt Life ; for, it is impoffible that any* 
tneaiure of Thankfulnefs from Men fliould be 
found anfwerable to the Caufes of their Thank- 
fulnefSjWhether manifed in temporal or (pincual 
Bencrke. And therefore upari ejus consideration 

the 



i\ 



BOOK in ' [ 6 79 ] CHAP. XXIII 

the I'lalmift./y* n6.ir. aycth out t W/>at /baft f 
render to the Lor d \f or all His Benefits toward me* 
6 The Fifth Error is, when the Convert tak- 
eth it for an Evidence of an unthankful Mind, 
if the Fervour of praifing God % oncz kindled after 
the frelh Receit of the Mercy ; fliall after fome 
timedecm to coo! or decaj';which if it were true, 
no room fliould be left to any holy Affection 
except only to th$ expreilion of Jay for Benefits 
received. But the truth is,that one Duty mud 
fo be ftudied,as other Duties have their time 
and place a!fo;for,we a r e commanded to rejoyce 
a;id tremble alfo,to rejovee with them that re- 
joyce,and to mourn with them that mourn. A* 
gain we mutt acknowledge, that foma exprefli- 
ons of Thankfuincfs becomerh the Convert u- 
x>n the frelh receit of the Benefit, which are not 
required to be always afterward continued, 
we read of the impotent Criple reftored to his 
LimHaby Peter, Acl. 3 8. and that for Joy he 
leaped and cryed out;butno Man would require 
of him that he fhould always thereafter have 
danced and cryed out, and yet he might be 
found among the ni ruber of thankful Receivers 
of Favour from God. 

7. Thcfe Errors then being removed, let the 
Convert 1. with the Pfalmift, ^103. charge hi* 
Soul toblefsGod at all times,and torernembtr all 
"rlis Benefits, and not forget any of them, and to 
wfefs his Obligation t9 God, which in 



BOOK 1U r 680 3 CH A R XXI1K ! 

the Scripture and fpeciallyin the Pfalm, is pug 
forBiefiing, Praifeing and Thanking Qod ; for 
the word that fignifieth in the Original to Gwr- 
fefs and Traife or Tbankfis oft- times one and the jit 
fame. z. Let him beg Grace to be thankful ft 
for Benefits no lefs earncftly. than he doth beg f' 
the promifed Benefits themfelves. 3. Let him 
put the Sacrifices of Thanks andPraife in Chrift§ 
Bands, by whom the Calves of our Lipsare 
made acceptable unto God. 4. Let the Convert | 
comfort himfelf, rhat in the Life to come, he c< 
jhall be taken up with Praifeand Thankf-giving i 
to God for ever and ever? i 

CHAP. XXI VI 1 



Concerning the Convert's imprudent c en fare cfhhv& if 
[elf for bis felt impatiencyjn bearinglejfer Trou* * 
lies % after his patient I taring of greater troubles* \ 



Undry Converts, when greater Troubles do 7 
afiault them, do humble themfelves in the I 
acknowledgement of their Inability, and pray un- < 
to God for Patieqce and Strength to bear their 
Burrhen. But when ' lefler Troubles fur prife 1 
them, they 3re foyled and. overcome by their 
feiffions. for example in the fmaller Pains ofl 
|Jody, lofs ol Is'i Injuries done to them un- 

exposed, by Word or Deed; and here they fume 
and fret and break forth in fome Expreffions of 
impatiency. Whereupon, when they refle#,they 



BOOK III; f 68x ] CHAP. XXIV 

arc fo far from humbling thcmfelves and making 
right ufe thereof, that their Indignation at thcm- 
felves, and their Fretting is increafed fo much 
the more, as the Caule of their Impatiency was 
ifbfmall, ascommorj reafon found in Heathens 
hath overcome, and therefore (hou Id have been 
moreeafily digefted byCbriJltafts.TUis Mif carri- 
age ufeth oft- times to be paii by , without anyFrui* 
further then ro acknwledge their Infirmity. 

2. But the true Cure of this Evil, is in dif- 
covery and removal of the Caufes thereof, which 
are three, i. Carnal Confidence of the Convert 
j n his own ftrength, as able to* overcome leflir 
Troubles, x Neglcdt of Duty toward God in 
his Rencounter with fmaller Provocations 
of Paflion ; for, Men in great Troubles and 
weighty Crofles, ufe to fly unto God by Pray- 
er to help them to bear the fame, but when 
phey meet with lefler Crofles, they oppofe their 
pwn Strength unto them, and puts not up the 
Matter to God, and fo their Infirmity is mani- 
feftcd. 3 God's wife corre&ing His Child for 
Miskening of Him in iighteft Matters. 

3. Therefore let the Convert affli&ed in this 
:afe, acknowledge his Failing, and be humbled 
it the fight of his paiTionac Infirmity, and blefs 
3od for bearing down by his Rod carnal Self- 
ronfidence. z; Let him learn of David, PCi4t. 
|. not to truftin his own Strength in anything, 
>ut depend on God for fetting a Watch before 
IS NJourh, §nd ^ce^ing the Door of his Lips, 



BOOK III. I 68x ] CHAP. XXV 

and mainly forkeeping his Heart from inclining 
to any eyil thing. 3. Let him make imre 
ufe both of Chart's open Fountain for waflrng 
away Sin and Uncleannefs, and of His Affiftance 
to mortifie the Deeds of corrupt Nature by His 
Spirit: fqr,otherways the Convert may look 
to be oftener foylcd in this kind, and oft~ner 
to bz corre&ed for not watching over his Pa& 
fipns. 



CHAP. XXV. 

Concerning the Convert's miflaking his cafe for- 
want of fuch a Submijficn unto Gods exercifingof 
cf him as he would have. 

SOme true Converts, fometime efteem them-. 
iclves guilty of Rebellion againft God, be- 
rhev cannocfubmit themfelves in bodily or 
joj Chaittfements unto Gods Difpenfation, - 
vna!d v The pretended Reafonsof their ; 
-nee againft themfelves are three, 1. be- { 
\\'cy find in themfeives fretting & murmur- 
* againft the Lords dealling with them.i.They 
Kemfeiyes farfirom humbling themfelves 
rider rhe mighty Hand of God, 3 Becaufe they* 
find n; themfelves ftijl uncjuietnefs after they fee J 
thcn/.ojves to fubmit; which endeavour to fub*~ 
niir, they conceive (liquid have brought forth 
guicttieft cfMuid; if ir had bec-nrcal, and fin* 



BOOK ni. [ 683 ] CHAP. XXV* 

*ere SubmiiTion indeed. And thefe Thoughts, 
when they have weight, make way for many 
Suggestions of Satan, and do draw on more 
and mow Unquietnefs and Guiltinefs with 

all. 

For Remedy whereof, 1. let it be confider- 

ed, that in this Excrcife a difference muft be put 
between God's part, the FIefl*,or corrupt Nuures 
part, the new Creature's part, and Satan's 
part. 

As for God's part, by His Chaftifements and 
exercifeing of His Child,He brings to light the 
Perverfeneft of corrupt Nature in His Child, to 
humble him and drive him to Chrift. The pare 
of Flefli or corrupt Nature, is always to drive 
againft thework ofGraceand the new Creature, 
and itcannot be fubmiffive unto God.Gal.^.y.but 
muft be mortified, Rom. 8. 7. the part of the 
new Creature,is not to'confent to the Fretting 
and murmuring of the Flefh, but to oppofe it, 
to yeild unto God's Difpenfation,and to be grie- 
ved for the power of corrupt nature, and 
therefore not the new Creature but corrupo 
Nature fliould be condemned. Satan's pari 
is, (till to take advantage of every hard Ex- 
ercife, and to fuggeft wrong Thoughts of Go4 
and His Work, in the Child oi God. 

Secondly, let a Difference be made between tho 
conflict of corrupt Nature againft the Wcr^ 

of 



B OOK III. f 6S4 ] C H A;P. XXV, 
of Grace, and the Vidlory of the corrupt Na- 
turc;for Corrupt Nature may fight, and not pre* 
vail,butbe kecped from reigning in a Man, how 
much foevcr it rage. 

Thirdly, let a difference be made between the 
Vidtory of corrupt Nature in foms G?*j?/#j,arid 
its Vi&ory in the War; for corrupt Nature may 
prevail in fundry Conflicts, and yet lofs its La- 
bour in the clofe of the War, wherein Grace is 
made perfectly vi&orious through Chrft,in hope 
whereof, the Child of God mud renew the Com- 
bat agatnft Nature and not faint. 

Fourthly, let a Difference be put between Sub*' 
miffion of xMind and Quietnefs in Mind. Sub- 
miffion may be fincere,v? hen pain of Body ma* 
keth the Convert to cry,when Afflidion maketfy 
him a Man of Sorrow and Grief;yea, when cor? 
rupt Nature doth fret and murmur,provided thac 
the Convert control and condemn his corrupt 
Naturc,and fuffer it not to break forth in word$ 
of Impatiency, but prayeth ro God to help him 
to bear the Burthen and endure hi$ Excrcife 
with Patience. 

Fifthly, let a Difference be put between the 
§infalnefs of corrupt Nature and the Trouble, 
which doth ftir it up, and the Sorrow which 
the Convert hath in the obfervation of both ; 
for the Sin is the work of the Flefh and Satan, 
the Trouble and Affliction is the work of God, 
the Sorrow for Sin felt, is the work of Gods 
gpiric alfo 5 and |he Sorrovv for Pain, Lofs* 

tea 



BOOK m [ 69 s 1 CHAP. XXVI. 

Shame, or any fort of Trouble, is moderac and 
fandtified,when the Convert offereth himfelf wil- 
ling to endure it, (o long as God iTiall bepleafed 
to continue it.Laft of all,lec it be confidered that 
a wxeftled for SubmiiTion, pleafeth God no left, 
than a vidtorious^ubm aTion doth pleafe the Con- 
vert, becaufe in wrcflling againft corrupt Na- 
ture, the Convert teftifieth his Will to pleafc 
God, his glorifying of God's Wiidom, Juftice, 
Power and Love, how ever the Lord deal with 
him. After which Wrefthng, the Lord doth 
give Submifljon vi&orious andQuietnefs with ir. 

CHAP. XXVL 

Concerning the Convert's yiiflaking of his Condition 
becaufe of Tent at ions. 

GOd$ Children oft times are not only hea- 
vy and grieved becaufe of Tentations 
(wmchrheApoftle i/V.i,6.prefuppofeth tobeor- 
dinary,and in fome refpedb needful) but alfo fall 
in a miftakihg of their condition, as if it were 
altogether evil and difpleafant unto God becaufe 
they perceive rhemfelves many wayes polluted 
in their Conflid with them. Which Pollutions, 
albeit they cannot be denyed to be Pollutions, 
^nd ihouldnot be excufed orexcenuar,yet (hou]d 
not darken or obicure the Grace of God in a 
Convert ftriving againft Tentations and lament- 
ing his Pollutions cpntra&ed by occafion of them, 

■■ fhefe 



BOOK TIT. f 6U ] CHAP. XXVI. 

2. Thefe Tentations, that' they may be the 
more clearly difcovered, we (hall devide them 
in three forts, i fome of them aredire&ly from 
God, in a wife and holy manner for tryal and 
exercifeof Faith,Hope,Charity and other Graces, 
and do not in any way tempt Men to Sin. z. 
Some are from theFlefh and the World, alluring 
or inducing Men to Sin; which two we join to- 
gether, becaufe Concupifcence or the Fieih or 
corrupt Nature joyncth it felf, with the World, 
and theft two help one another, and therefore 
are joined together by the Apoftlc f if$b.%;:i6 All 
that is tn*be World hthelufl of the Eyesjhilulcf 
the Flejh and the pride of Ufe.And when Men are 
tempted by their own Lufts, the World doth fur- 
aiih Objeds, Allurements & Inducements to Sin, 
The Third fort are, the Tencattons from Satan, 
who befide that he is not idle to takeadvantage 
ofConcupifcence & the Worlds Inducements, (o 
is he chiefly bufie to throw his fiery Darrs a- 
gainft the Converr,and to folicit Men to fuchSins 
3$ the Convert doth moft dereft and abhor. 

As for the fir it fort of Tentacions from God, 
they areordinarly by Affi.&ions bodily or fpi- 
ritual, wherein oft-times the Converts do not 
pbferve the Lords Purpofe and Will revealed in 
Scripture.or are forgetful of the Admonitions 
and Confobtions which they have heard from 
Scripture, which was the cafe of the Afflicted 
Saints, Heh. n. 5*. audio thev are mo/evex- 
Qcffihcn they fltyuld be; and (Pf. 41. i{.) deje- 

^4 



BOOK Til, [ 687 ] CHAP. XXVT^ , 
d>cd and difquietcd, and dofufped char God is 
angiy with them and wich the way they walk 
in, Heb. ii, ii. 13. 

Of this Sickncfs, there may be Three Caufes, 
1. the birrernefs of Affli&ion for the preient 
time wherein it is fclf. x. the fenfe of by paft 
Sin which the Affii&ed doth fufped God is per- 
fumg , and making him poflefs the Sins of his 
Youth, 7^13, 26. The third, is theobferva- 
tioi of in born corruption, difcovcred untothe 
Affli^vd much more then in profperity. 

4. For Remedy of this Evil, let che Afflicted 
Convert peri wade himfclf frcm the Word of God 
that in all the Afflictions of GodVChildron, 
the Lord doth intend the tryal and exercife and 
increafe of Faith, and other Graces beftowed on 
them. And upon this confideation,thc Afflicted 
ihould rcjoyceinthis cxQTC\te.Jam.i.z.y.Secor:tfly 9 
let him remcmber,that with the tryal of Faith, 
there is always a difcovery .of infirmity and Cor- 
ruption of Nature in the Afflicted: As in the 
purifying of Gold, both die goad Mcttal and 
the Drofs are difcoveied, which as hefliodd ac- 
knowledged, that he may be keeped from fret- 
ting;fo muft he ftill remember, that the Lord 
doth intend the rryaiof his Faith, that he may 
be conftaut in believing on .-Chrift. the only 
help and relief from Sin and Mifcry. Thirdly, in 
whatfoever conditionhe is in Jet him endeavour to 
go on in;Paticace,Experiencc & Hope, which fliaJl 

I 

nc- 



BO OK IB. [ 688 ] CHA P. XXVt; 

never make him afhamed, for this doth the Lori 
teach us. Rom. j, 3. 4. indjam 1,4. 

As for the Second fort of Tentations,from the 
Concupifcence of the Flcfh.and from the World's 
Allurements and Terror, letrhe Convert affltdi- 
cd follow the fame courier which is pecicrtbeA 
in the Remedy of tK- Tintations of thefirlt fort. 

As for the ffritd foci of /citations, which 
arc from the Devi, txsipting V1m to Achcafm, 
Or BJafphemy, or Dstppic, or £c$ murder, and 
fuchlike,whi.:h ev-': Nihiife dottf abhor, where- 
of fomething is lpokcn.elfe where, 1. iet the af- 
Aided Convert purdifferenc between tluDevil'* 
Sin in tempting to vile Sins, a: ! Kis own Teem- 
ing feeble refilling, wherein albeit he thinketh 
himfelf polluted, yet his not yielding teftifieth 
his diflenting from thofe tearful Sins whereunto 
Satan dcth terriprhim. x Let him put difference 
between the confent of his unmortifie<> corrupt 
Nature inclinable to every Evil, from the Luft 
of the Spirit which fighteth againft the Luft 
of the Fleih, which hindereth the Adverfary 
from getting the Vidtory; 3. Let him put diffc- 
rence between the Sufficiency of God's Grace 
Upholding him in the ConfH#.and the fuliVi&o 
ry againft the Meffenger of Satan bufFecnhg him: 
For, God ufeth to fufpend thsVictory for a time, 
and yet make His Grace fuffiereritly uphold His 
Souldier till the Victory be given; as Paul's Ex- 
perience, z Cor. ii. tcacherl \ni indeed, ic 
j| a glea&nt Spectacle to thfc fcotd to look upon 



BOOK III. [6% 9 ] CHAP. xxvr. 

His Weak child driving againft the FIcfh. tht 
Worl d & Satan,& /?W/*g out by Faith in Chrift 
againft them all. 4. Let him confider, that by 
thefc /cntarions of Satan, unto vik Sins, God 
can, and doth mortific Sin, and make His Child 
watchful and ftrong againft both the iWul In- 
clination unto thefeand all other Sins. In the 
mean time, let him beware of a more (lye and 
fubtile 7entation,which Satan ufeth to Aide in 
at the back of thefe ugly and groflc 7cntations* 
which is this, uhen he hath prefied with all 
violence thefc fiery Darts and vile £uggeftions 
upon the Convert,' he chargcth the afflicted 
Soul with a giving confent unto them,and like* 
fcolding Calumniator impudently bcarcth guild- 
nefs upon him, and all to make him apprehend 
his condition to be tforfc than it is, and tofu- 
fpect, that God,by this Excrcife, is purfuing himr 
in Wrath; and this Testation is not readily ob- 
ftrved by the afflicted Convert,but yielded unto 
more than to thegrofs /entation. Therefore, ia 
the laft place, let the Convert guard againft thii 
7entation which brangleth his Faith, and lay 
the blame, with the Apoftle, on corrupt Nature 
Whatsoever guikinefs is found, Rom. 7. 17. Now 
then it is no more 1 that doth it, but fin that ivocU 
ktb in me;A Speech befeerriing a Man free of out- 
breaking & prevailing corruption,and driving a- 
gainft all inward Motions of corrupt Nature. 
And for Remedy of this and other evils, let him 
tfnew £ht Acti ef his Faith in Chrift, laying 



BOOK III [ 690 ] GHAP. XXVlt 
bold upon the Covenant of Grace, that he may 
mere confidently draw near unto God Reconci- 
led in Chrift, and fo no more doubt of God's 
good Will to him, nbtwithftaading of his hard 
Exercife under Tcntations: for, thus Satan f&all 
not only fly from the firft Tentation,being refi- 
lled, but alfo be difappointed of the luccefs he 
expe&ed in queftioning the Converts condition 
and Weakening of his Faith. 

CHAP. XXVII. 



Concerning tfa Convert's rnt/laking his condition 
when he doth ohfervefome Degrees of Gods de- 
fer ting of him. 

TO fpeak of the forts and degrees of God's 
Deterring a Soul, requireth a large Trea- 
tiie,& the Cafe andCure thereof is already pub- 
lickly fet forth by a Learned & GodlyPreachcr of 
the Gofpel; ft ihall fuffice, for our purpofe, to 
fpeak of it only fo far as it concerneth the Con- 
vertsMiftakinghisCondition when lie apprehen- 
deth himfelf Deferted, whether the Defertion 
be real or apparent only, &nd falleth into fufpi- 
cion of Gods Love to him, or that God is dil- 
pleafed with him, became he findeth not well 
lively Influence of Gods Spirit as he hath found 
and'fuch aififhnce of His Gracious prefence as 
Tie did expect m Sifcharge of Religious Duties, 
er Exercilcs wherein Diviu£ 'Providence fratu 
r " yokeJt 



BOOK III [ 6 9 i ] CHAP. XXVII, 
yoked him. The Scripture and daily Experience 
do Furnilh inftances of fad Complaints of the 
Lord's hiding His Face and withdrawing or with- 
holding of Light, or Peace, or Conloiation, or 
Strength and Ability for. fpiritual Dutics,©V. 

i. For Remedy whereof, i. let the Convert 
remember, that God doth not leave a Believer 
fled to Chrift for relief from Sin and Mifery, al- 
ways and for ever,butfora (hort time, andthnc 
Hekeepeth Love to them conftantly,aibeit He 
do hide the Tokensof His Lovcfometime, and 
difpofe of the A&s of His Love, as tie feetli 
fit for the Advantage of the work of Grace in 
them. Let him put difference between Deferti- 
on and the Gift of Difcerning of the Defcrtion: 
For albeit Defertion be of itfelfa fad Vifitatt- 
on, yet the fight and ohtervation of it, teftifi- 
eth God's prcfence with His Child, giving Eye* 
falve and Light; and thereby doth not only 
teach that Wound to be curable, but alfo that 
the Phyfician is begun the cure of it, by pancing 
& lancing the wound. 3 Let him not count it a 
Defertion, when God in any fervice whereunto 
Be puts His Child, emptieth him of all conceit 
:>f his own ability, that he may open his Mouth 
wide and be filled: For this emptying of the 
"onvert, is the very fitting of him for freflifup- 
>ly from Chrift to go about the Service in 
Dhrifts Strength and Furniture, which the Apo- 
Ue felt by experience, 2 Cor. n, 10. When 
J am makfi&i\\ he, then I am ftrong. Poverty of 

X x ' Spi- 



bock m. [ 6 9 z ] Chap. xxVfc E ' 

Spiritanu Hurigerand Third for ffighteoufrteft, 
are not to be counted Defertions. 4. Lee hint L 
obferve the Degrees of God V prefence, no le(S 
than the ' degrees of His Abfence; as the TfaU 
mifl did when recolle&ed himfelf,P/ 73. 23. af- | 
ter the Tentation which troubled him was over- 
come. Neverthelefs I am continually with Thee. 
Thou holdefi me by Thy right hand, and ver z6\ 
my Flejh and my Heart faileth, but God is the 
Strength of my Heart and my Portion for ever. 5,- 
Let him put a right conltru&ion upon Gads 
Difpenfation, believing always, that God doth 
what He doth for good to His Affli&ed fubjed:; 
whether He draw forth, by His Defertion, 
the Latent-corruption of the Heart, as He did 
to Ezekiah, 2 Chron. 22, 31. or whether to pre- [ 
vent out- breaking of Corruption, as He did t& \ 
the Apoftle. z Cor. 12. 7, 8, 9. or whether to 
exercile his Faith, Love and Patience, aid to 
fnarpen his Prayer, as he did to the Pfalmi/t fre- 
quently. And therefore, let him, in theobferva-' 
tion of whatfoever degree of Defertion, hum- 
ble himfelf before God, fly in more clofely unto 
Chrift, and patiently wait upon the change of his 
condition, in the ufe of the Means, and follow-*! 
ing the Duties of bis Calling as the Lord ihalM 
enable him : For, this is the Counfel of the Lord,-' 
J fa. 50. 10, Who is he among you that feareth tHM 
Lord, that ohtyeth the voice of His Servant, that 
voalketb in darknefs and hath no light? let him ti 
in the Name of the Lord, and (lay upon his God. 



And 



I 



BOOK III. [693] CHAP. XXVil 

And this much fufficcth for Infhnces of the 
third fort of the Converts miftaking hisConditioa 

CHAP. XXVIII. 

Concerning Cafes, therein the Convert is in 

doult what to determine alottf his condition. 

-. 

T rcfteth, that we fpeak of the Fourth fort 
of Cafes of the Conference of the Convert, 
y» herein he is at a (land, and in doubt what to 
determine of his prefent condition. 

i.lh thefe doubtful Cafes, the Convert is not 
properly deceived, as in the former Ranks of 
Cafes it isprefuppofed of him ; becanfe in this 
fort of Cafes, the Convert doth not pofitivety 
determine the Queftion wherein hcis failenjbuc 
fiandeth in doubt what to refolve upon. 

3. Cafes of this fort pertain to the Mind and 
Judgement of the Convert, and if his Judgement 
be cleared by loofing of the Queftion, inconti- 
nent he is farisfied and quiet. 

4. It is neceflar for the Convert's clearing,, 
that he form the Queftion rightly ; and to this 
end, 1. Let him conftder his cafe and condition 
in himfeif, fo accuratly as he can. 2. Let him 
ingenuoufly lay forth the Queftion or Doubt he 
hath, before his Paftor or Chriftian Friend, ac- 
quainted with Cafes o\. Conference, and asK 
their Judgement what to think of,or what to do 
in fuch a Cafe. ' The Reafoiz why he mufl exa- 

X x a inine 



BOOK III. [ 694 1 CHAP. XXVH1, 9 
mine narrowly his own condition, before he | c 
fpeakofit to another, is partly becaufe other--: i 
ways his Doubt or Queftion may prove Frivo- 
lous and unworthy of an Anfwer;partly becaufe 
the Convert after examination of his Cafe and 
Prayer unto God, may find fatisfadlion to |iis 
Doubt; and partly, becaufe,if his Doubt remain, 
the Queftion may be the more clearly propoun- 
ded, and fo receive the more clear and fpeedy 
Anfvver for his Satisfaction. 

5:. Of this fort of Queftions, we fliall pro* 
pound fome Examples and giveforne Refolution 
unto them,whereof ufe may be made when fuch 
like Queftions fliall occur. 
The Fir (i Queftion jhall be concerning Confufion of 

Mind. 

IT cometh to pafs fometime, when a Convert 
is upon Examination of his own Eftate 6t 
Condition,that fuch a mift and darknefs falleth 
on his Mind, and fuch a croud and throng of 
Thoughts within him,rhat he candifcern nothing 
but Mift, multitude of Thoughts, and Darknels 
and Confufion. The Queftion is, what ihall he 
think or do, for removing of this Confufion of 
Thoughts and darknefs of Mind? 
^ Anf. This Cafe befalleth Converts frequently 
and therefore had need to be the more carefully 
cured:Which Cure.that it may the better goon 
let the AfHidJed renew the Examination of his 
former Behaviour, and fee it he can find out the 
nicriiprious Caufe thereof in himfelf ; for, this 

cafe 



.. 



OOK III [ 6 9S ] CHAP. XXVill. 

qsfic oft- times is the caftigation of theAfHicted, 
or his former negligence & omiflion of Dunes,or 
light discharge of religious Worihip: yea, it may 
?e found poihbiy, that the Afflidfed hath been 
fo carelefs in keeping his Heart in the Fear of 
JGod, that he ham involved himfelf too far in 
earthly and thorny Affairs, or hath exceeded in 
the u(e of things lawful, or by fome corrupt 
Communication, hath grieved the- Lords Spirit, 
and fo hath drawn on fome D#fertipn and with- 
drawing of Illumination from hirp, 

2. This cafe may a'fo fall our, from fome pre- 
fent Perturbation of Mind ^nd Paflibn, whereby 
his Reafon is fo taken up for the time, that ic 
icannot difcharge its duty.-As cometh to pafs usu- 
ally in Anger or Fcar,or Grief or fome fuch like 
iPalfion.asmay be feen, when a Man is injuied 
by his Neighbour, or doth meet with ibmc 
I)amnage,or is put in fear of fome imminent E- 
vil coming on him, or findeth lharp Painsofrio^ 
dy, or tome fuch like Caufc perplexing him.The 
Queftion is,vvhtt (hall he think of this Condition? 

Anf. If the AfHi&ed fhall examine how he is 
fallen in this cafe, and fhall, in consideration of 
his VVeaknefs ? be humbled before God byPrayer 
he fliall not wantcleamefs of Mind.and Dire&U 
ons from God what to do, and how to behave 
himfelfjin ordering of his Converfation arighc,P/I 
50. 23. for, the Lord gives Wifdom liberally, 
to all that ask it of Him in Faithjjw.i,^ and this 
hisprefent condition giveth him an Errand to 
God. Xx; 



BOOK III { 6 9 6) CHA P. XXVffl, , 

The Second Queflion is concerning the Convert > • 
who mofl part walketh heavily. 

~"*Here arcfome true Converts, who after , 
• j[/ Examination of themfeives.cannot deny. \ 
titft their Hbart is towards the ways of.j 
God in their* Calling, and that as they find the 
Imperfections of thsir Service, To they are for- ! 
cedro renounce all confidence in their ownRigh- . 
teoufnefs, and to fly to the RightcoufnefsofChrift 
as the only true Garment able to hide their^ • 
Nakednefs; -yet, they arc for the mod part j 
heavy in their Spirit, feldom they rejoyce,but 
many times they weep; and howfoever they 
maintain confidence in Chrift for the (late they' 
ftand into; yet, when they confider their ordi- 
narHeavinefs of Heart,chey doubt what to think 
of this their fad condition. 

Anf. This co:idttion,if well confidcred,ts very 
Ufefal,a!beic not always comfortable; for, the 
Lord's Difpenfation towards fuch a Perfon thus 
exercifed, is well tempered and wifely mixed : 
Fbr, He neither fuffercth the heavy in Heart 
to caft tway his Confidence in Chrift, nor to b« 
idle and unfruitful in his Vocation, nor to glory 
in his own Works, or put confidence in thtm, 
fe&t fo kc-cpeth him up to the Duty of more and 
more efteeming of Chrift's RighteouGiefs, and 
drawing of Strength from Him by Faith, that 
h&goeth on ih.his courfe uprightly, albeit not 
fed as he would b^ by the confoiations of the 
holyGhoft. *.',?o? 



BOOK III. [ 697 ] CHA P. XXVIII. 

. z, For Remedy whereof, Jet him quiet hi s 
(Mind; for, after Examination qf his own natura 1 
Inclinations, he ijhaii find the Reafon of the 
Lord's DifpenUcon toward him, fparingly 
giving unto him fuch mcafure 0/ Confolation as 
he would have, to be this, left hefhould abate 
the fame; and lean more to the fcnfiblc feeling 
thereof then to the Word of Faith: and therefore 
however he find Heavinefs,of Heart through 
manifold Testations , let hiiji hold on his way 
in the obedience of Faith, he fliallaftera. whiles 
Patience and Wreftling.mect with as much Peace 
and Confolation as may fuffice a Pilgrim, walk- 
ing fromStrength toStrength till he appear before 
God in Heaven, where all Tears, iljall be Wiped 
away from his Eyes. Meantime, let this (/round 
beholden faft,{hat;. God mixeih the Cup- of His 
own Children as He findech it fit for their Edi- 
fication. 

The Third Quefthn is, concerning the Convert, vch* 
jor not looking on their Or/ginalSin and the out-. 
, breakings thereof, are in doubt what to think of 
their former condition. 

SOme Converts arc, who after a quiet Pof- 
fciiion of Peace injoyed in a blamelefsCon- 
veriation among Men,and itvthcExercifejof Re- 
ligion uprightly before God, after Examination 
:>f their condition more narrowly ,do find, that 
Jic Confcicnce for a longtime hath been filent 
Uid hath not changed for the Motions of 

Xx 4 oxi- 



BOOK m. f?98 1 CHAP. XXVllf; 

original Sin, but fuffered them to go on feclir c 
ly under the guiicinefs of the daily fprouting 
forth thereof. Jn this cafe, as they dare not caft 
away their confidence in Chrift, nor their ho- 
ly purpofe of walking uprightly before God'; fo 
they cannot justify the filcnce of their Con ci- 
ence, which hath (uiiered the Motions of Sin (al- 
though not confemed unto) to go away with- 
out Challenge or Reckoning made tor them.and 
here they are in ftrairs, and doubt wh*c to 
judge of their own Condition. 

Anj. In this cafe.the Silence of the Confcicncc 
is not to be excufcd:And the Peace of the Con- 
vert albeit it may be found Jn order to the Con- 
vert's fiate in Grace, yet the condition where- 
in he is, is not good, but mixed with much Se- 
curity ; for to make the condition of a Convert 
to be -good.it isnot only required that hisCon- 
fcience be Kcepcd free from grofs Pollutions,but 
alfo that he be daily aiming at mortifying of 
Sin, and that to this end, he daily give an ac* 
count unto God of his Wandering and Vanity, 
and of the obferved Out-fproutings of the bit- 
ter Root of original Sin, that he may, after his 
beft Behaviour, perceive a neceffity of that Pra- 
yer, taught us by our Lord for daily Remiflion 
of Sins, and fo may daily have the Anfwer of 
God from the Evangel, faying, Son, be of good 
cheer, thy Shs are forgiven unto thee: For there 
is a twofold Abfoiurion of the Convert, one 
is in order to his Perfoa, which Chrift calletlv 



COOK HI. r 699 ] CHAP. XXVT1L 
the wafting of the whole Ma*; the other is in or- 
der to his daily Impcrfctfioirs and Blemifhcsof 
his Converfation, which Chrift doth call the 
wafting of the Feet. By vertue of the firft fore 
of Absolution, the Child of God, flying to Chrift, 
is judicially declared free from Condemnation; 
by the other, thfc Believer making ufe of the 
Fountain opened up in Chrift, is excemed from 
his acknowledged' Uncleannefs. This is* clear 
from Chrift 4 s Words, Job. 13. 10. Meantime 
we confels, that the motions of Sin in our mor- 
tal Bodies arc lb innumerable, that no Man can 
overtake them, yet muft they be counted foe 
an heap at lead, as David doth teach us } Pfic). 
ii Who kn$weth the Errors of his Lifelcleanfe me 
from my fecret Sins, And this fame Leilbn do:h 
she Apoftle teach us, Rom. 7. 24 Wretched Man 
that lam, faith he, who ft all deliver me from the 
bodyofthh Deaths 1 thank God through Jefus Chrift. 
Wherefore, let the Convert go on in his formic 
Godly and Righteous Behaviour and Converfa- 
tion, not mif-regarding the Sproutingsof origi- 
nal Sin, but giving account thereof unto Chrift, 
as faid is, that he may glorify that Righteouf- 
nefs of Chrift by Faith, and enjoy Peace with 
God, not only in order to his State, butalfoiti 
order t# his Condition daily. 

The Fourth Qjie/lion is, how the Convert may 
know and he certain of his purification. 
X Ji 7Hen the true Convert hearcth the diffet 
V V * cnC Opinions of Theologucs con- 
cur- 



BOOK lit. [ 700 ] CHAP. XXVlir. 
ceming th$ A& of Justification of a 3ehever,fome 
faying that it is an A(3 of God immanent, where- 
by He Avilleth the abfoluciorj of the Believer ; 
fome faying, that it-is- an A<5t of God emanent 
'<\x\&tranfient from God upon the Spirit of the 
Believe fome faying it is the. Sentence of the 
Judge^ ablolving the-bclieving Sinner from the 
Ciirfe of the Law. The Believer here poffibly 
isat a; ftand, and krioweth not hotf to anfwer 
tiiQ:Qaeftion till his Doubt be,k>ofed, 
•ifer the Satisfaction of the Convert, Fir/I, yt# 
may fofely fay, that it is not-.puter.i^l \vhether 
the Convert be able^to take up the Quiddky & 
forronl.Norion. of the Ai2: of jiiQificanon; provi- 
ded he be a Believer in Chrift and- know, ihat 
die Believer irxChrift, is : Juftified before God f 
and tltebeing Juftified by Faith, he hath peac§ 
with God,and c^n apply thefe Truths unto him- 
felun the Exercife of Repentance.and nevvQfc^r 
itencei But if poifibly, the Convert, cannot bpfa- 
tis'ficd till his doubt be anfwered,lel jlim confidcr, 
t^gr heniuftdiftinguiih between J-uftificationac r 
Ciftedy taken as it proceeded! from God, & Jufl> 
feca<tion paHively taken as it is terminat on the 
JfaftfiedMar.; as it is taken actively, thefe. Four 
riiiiigg.are to be diftinguiflied, 1. Gods erernal 
Will and Dccree v to abfblvefrom Sin and Wrath, 
everyBeliever in Chrift. z.Gods actual reveal- 
in time, this His Gta^icrus pleafure in the Gofpel. 
3, Gods judicial application of this general'Sen- 
ccrxe to the -fielieYC*: in the point of his ; Cab* 

•3rt> SQX* 



! 



BOOKin. [ 701 ] CHARXXVlll- 

verfion, whether the Believer, perceive his' Ab- 
solution or net for the time. 4. There isa fenfi* 
b\6 Ihrimation of this Sentcncpmico th« Belie- 
ver, joyned with Peace and joy, v >:hich the Apo- 
{tle calleth the fhedding abroad of the Love- of 
Go<i in the Heart, Rom. 5. 5. and the kiting 
of the holy <jhoft,ftamping the Heart with Ho - 
Vinck.Ephef.i.i J. The firft Three. makes. the At* 
folution of the Believer certain, whether ck 
Believer thinks foot not,but the Fourth, which 
is the fenfible Intimation of this Sentence, doth 
make the Believer both fure and joyful. 

As Juflificatipn is taken paflivcly, Four thioga 
may be diftinguifhed in the Believer juftfiod.The 
Firfl is his a'&ual receiving of Chnft offerod^to 
the Gofpel for a perfed: Remedy ofSin and.Mn 
fery. The Second is,the Lords judicial ifelwg of 
the general Sentence of Absolution ijpea the 
Believer, as if He had fpoken to him 
by Name, as He did to the Apoftles, Jvb.if. 
yNow are ye dean , through the Word I havAfpoic* 
unto you, that is,youare clean from the guilt of 
Sin by My abfolving of you. The Third is, the 
Believers obfervingin a reflect ac3: of his Cpfl- 
(cience that he hath fled to Chrift forabfoluti- 
on.and thereforejuftified indeed. The Fourth 'is, 
the feeling and obferving of the Taft^mony. of 
the holy Ghoft bearing wirnefs 'with his Spirit 
that he is a Child of God abfolved from Sin 
and Wrath. The firft two ofthefc, to wit, the 

3$ 



BOOK IT!. [ 7 o* ] ? CHAP.XXV1L 
ad of Faith, receiving of Chr id and of the right 
made by Chrift to the believer in Him of Uis 
Abfoliition, may be in,and on the Believer with- 
out the 6ther two,to wit,his Obfervation of the 
Ad of Faith, and the felt Intimation of this 
work 4>f Grace by the holy Spirit. 
- i. For folving of the Doubt then;as Juftifica- 
fi6his adivefy takan, as proceeding from the 
immanent Ad of Gods eternal Purpofe and De- 
cree tojuftify the Believer,it is no more the a- 
dttal J&ltificatioh' in this Life, of which wc are 
fpeakingythan the immanent ad of Gods eternal 
purpofe to raifethe Bodies of Believers in Chrift, 
& to glorifie them in Soul & Body .can be called 
the adualRcfurredion of their Bodies and Glo- 
rification of both Soul and Body in this Life. 

But the tranfient Ad of Juftification in a judi- 
cial way, which is the Lord's ' judicial Sentence 
af iAbfaiution of the Believer, declared by His 
Word fet down now in holy Scripture, it is in- 
deed and formally the Believers Juftification,and 
isjudicially termi^tupon every Believer in the 
ad: of his Converfion,vrhethet the Believer doth 
clearly perceive his own Converfion,or be in fu- 
fpicion of his being Reconciled and Juftified. 

And this may be made to appear, if we com- 
pare the Condemnation of the Unbeliever with 
theAbfolution of the-Believer fled to Chrift,^, 
3,18. As he that believeth not iq Chrift is con- 
demned already, becaufe the Curfc of the Law 
and Condemnation pronounced in the Scripture 

by 



BOOK HI. j [ 703 1 C H A P. XXVIII.* 
by God the foveraign Judge, ftands againft him 
lo long as he doth not believe in the only be- 
gotten Son of God : And this Sentence ftandcth 
fait, whether the Unbeliever take notice of this 
Sentence or noc, whether hedo apply ittohim- 
fcif or not, do find Grief for it or not; So the 
Believer in Chfift is relaxed from Condemna- 
tion and abfolved, and hath right unco eternal 
Life and begun "' poflcflion of it, aibeit'for the 
time of his Infancy, Testation, Trembling and 
Fear, it be not fo, albeit he doth not pdrceive 
the bkflcd change of his ftate; nor doth lay to 
Heart as he might, the words of Chrift judici- 
ally pronouncing the Sentence comprehending 
him as certainly as if his Name were exprefled 
J oh. 3 18. He thdt believeth on Hint, is not 
condemned ,and *ver* 36. He that lelieveth on the 
Son hath everlafling L/fV,and Joh 6. from ver. 3 7. 
to 4i.Hence we conclude,rhat the formal a<Sf q£ 
Juftification of a Man fled to Chrift, is to be 
found in the written Sentence of the Judge ab- 
folving every Believer and the Manw T e fpeakof. 
There is another tranfient A& of God, in ah 
adtual Revelation of Juftificarion, wherein the 
holy Ghoft openetli the Eyes of the Believer 
to behold and perceive the Crift of faith alrea- 
dy beftovved on him; Of this fpeaks the Apoftte, 
1 Cor. z. ix. And after tkat the holy Ghoft 
hath pointed out His own Grace, be do wed on 
the Believer, He followeth His Work, by giv- 
ing remarkable peace and joy is Earnelt of 

Life 



BOOK III.- [ 704 ] CHAP.XXVlli; 

Life everlafting, whereof the ApoftleTpeaketb; 
Ephef. i. i^ In whom ye aljo trujfedjfterye beard 
the word of Truth jhe G of pel ' cf you/ \Salv\atton : in 
whom aljo, after ye had believed \je were fealed 
with the Spirit of jrcmife which is the Earned of 
$ur Inheritance.TftcvdoreMethat dcfireth to have 
the Intimation ofhisJuftification,afcer flying for 
Refuge untoChrift for relief of felt Sin and fear- 
ed' Wrath,muft read his Abfolution in the Gofpcl, 
as well as he hath read, before that,, his Con* 
demnation in the Law. Unto which Sentence of 
Abfolution, let him hold faft in his, daily Endea* 
vour after San&ification. 

The' Fifth Queflion is, howtofatisfietbe Convert 
who findeth him f elf purfued for his Sins after Re~ 
mifiion believed t and is brought in queflion what 

M' dge of his cafe. 
Any Converts have fallen in Jobs Cafe,and 
feemed to themfelvcs to poflefs the Sins 
of their youth, Job, 13. z6, For, after Conver- 
sion and felt Reconciliation* they find the Sins 
tbey did repent o£and did believe to be forgiven 
through Chrift, obje&cd to them afreih, pur- 
fued with lharp Areufations, and Signs of wrath 
joy ned therewith. Their Reconciliation .and 
Righteoufnefe through Chrift, -they purpofe to 
hold faft; their old Guikincfs, and Sentence of 
their Confcience writing bitter things againfi 
them,they cannot deny.-the pinch is here, ei- 
ther the Remiflionth'ey did believe is null, or 

she 



BOOK III [ 70s } CHAP. XXV ni 

the Challenge is unjuft, do thev reafbn with 
themfelvcs; the Nulhty of their Rtmiffiojnhey 
dare not admit, and the juft ground of Challenge 
they cam not deny, and the doubt what to think 
ofrhis cafe they C4janot fliun, not teeing, h 
thefc things can confift and Rand together. 

x For anfwer to this doubr.thefe four Things 
mud be di(lingui(hed,and how they may all con- 
flit one with another mud be timcoufly conjjder- 
cd.The four things to be diftinguilhedare i.The 
Reconciliation of a Convert ttith God., a. The 
Rcmitfion of the Reconciled Mans Sim freely 
gifted unto him by God. 3. A renewed bitter 
Accufation raifed by Satan againfl the reconciled 
Convert. 4. The holy and wife Difpenfarion of 
God,pcrmittingand ordering theft renewed Ac- 
ieufations of His Child by £atan, for the itfi\ 
and exercifc of his Faith and growth of hisRc- 
pentance, and other good finds 

Now for the confidence of thefcFov; 
not doubt, but rhe Accufcr of the fererjirea 
cad up to us forgiven Sins.and bear upon us - 
they arc not forgiven. Neither ineed we -de 
but God in Wiidom and Love to His C/j\\.. 
may fuiTer Satan to renew Accufoti 
them, and (border that matter, 35 aeirivv 
flu 11 prevail, nor His Child fufiir Daraoage 
the Means* For, there is a great di_. be- 

tween Satans renewing of Accufarions fei 
forgiven,and Gods making null the Rem: 
granted, the Lord can fui*$r the* one to bo 

fiut 



* 



BO OK III. [ 706} CHAP. XXVltt* 

But the ether he will never fuffer to be; 
For when a true Convert growcth negligent, & 
fallcttif in fuch Sins,afte'r Conversion as he livfll 
ip before Conversion, no wonder Satan be per* 
mitred to call his fprmerConverfionin qucftion; 
yea thcLord may judly caft up toHis Child hi$ 
former faults to humble him and fhame himfrom 
go;ng on albeit he doth not difanul the formerly 
granted Rcmiffion. 

3 When 1 hankfgiving forRemiflion of Sin grants 
ed for. ChnflsCaufc, beginneth to cool in the 
Heart of a Convert, what wonder the Lord not 
only CufFcr, but alio prefent the vilenefs of by- 
p:ift vSins to make rhe Convert fenfible of theRc- 
million, & tocaufchim renew the a&s of Repen- 
tance & godly Sorrow for his Sins by*paft, as 
E*ek. 1 663 & 36, 3 2, Then /hall you remember your 
civ?i evil ways& your doings which were not good, and 
(kail I oath\ our [elves for your Iniquity $ & abominations 
When the Convert growath. remits* in Watch- 
ing over his own heart and ways, 6k is in danger 
of falling back into thefe .Sins which he had rc- 
penced of before, what wonder the Lord by re.* 
merobring him of his natural /nclination and 
net \va;v s 5 tio warn him of his danger to make 
him prcveen his fall. 

4 7rhcre r ore, let the Convert mantain the 
Solidity of former Rcmiiiion of Sins, and make 
good u(c of his former Sins which went before 
h»s Convcrfion.and let him follow the example 
of lad, Who cid not fuftcr his former Sins to 



r< 



BOOK IIL [ ?o 7 ] CHAP. XXVIIT. 
I go our of h\<s Mind, but did renew the Con- 
i feflion of them upon all occafions for his own 
daily Humiliation, for the Edification ofochers. 
and for Magnifying rhe Glory cf the Grace of 
God;and yet for all th'S.did not fufpcA theRe- 
miflion of Sins received : For by this Means the 
Convert lhall preveen Accufations, and ftopSa- 
tans Mouth, a>id make his Accuiations have 
no force.By thi* Means tke Convert ihall pof- 
fefs firm and liable Confidence of God 4 s un- 
changeable Grace and Mercy, and of the Sta* 
biiity of the Remiffion of Sin granted. 

The fixth Quefticx is, of a Convert caflen, not only 
in un uncertainty for the time oj his Conver/ton, 
lut alfoin a Doubt whether he be elecied or not) 
and knows not how to Jo in this cafe. 

SOme Converts fall in Hem an the Ezraite his 
Exercife, wherttof we read, Pf 83. efpe- 
cialiy, ver. 14. 15-. Wliile IfujferThy Terr en I 
am rl/ffrafled, faith he. Counfel hach been of- 
fered by fome to the Abided, to follow the 
Pra&ice and Experience of fome eminent Theo- 
logues, who being brought to fuch Straits wit!i 
good luccefs,have fubmitted themfelves to God 
co fave them or deftroythemas Heplcafed; af- 
ter which fubmillion, they have felt the mar- 
rcious fvvcet Embracemcnts ofGods loving K;n J- 
Y y nsft 



,> 



BOOK III. r 70S ] CHAP XXVIlt. 

nefs making thcmfure both of their Co^verfion 
and Ele&ion. Whetherto follow rhis Example 
and Experience of tome notable Saints, is chc 
Doubt, wherein the Convert is not clear, and 
knoweth not how to carry himfolf toward God 
in this cafe. 

x, For anfwer to this Queftiovi : it is free for 
God to comfort a Soul calien down, when, and 
how, He pleafeth ; it is free for God 10 pais by 
the Infirmity and Error of a terrified £oul,com- 
ing to him not in the wifeft way prefenbedto 
to him, and to look to the neccflity of the Man's 
Confolanon.and not to his way of feeking of it. 
But hovvfoever it pleafeth God to comfort fomc 
..iraordinarly, yet this is not the Duty of the 
iUxii&ed to come with fuch an unrequired Sub* 
million unto God: For, it limittth the Lord, in 
a manner either to comfort the Man fpeediiy,or 
fi'ffcrhim upon apparent rafufal for the time, to 
difpa^:For Gods ordei is to bring the Sinner un- 
der the ferle of Sin and acknowledgement of 
ccferved Wrath for S\i^ and then to charge him 
to believe in the Name of His Son Jefus Chrift, 
and niter believing in Chrift, to feal the Belie- 
ver with the Stamp of Holinefc and the Earned 
penny of the Inheritance, Which is Peace with. 
God, and Joy in the holy Ghoil fhed abroad 
in his Heart, 

3. Wherefore as for theConverfion of a Man 
irraitned in the Pains of the new Birth and Fear 
of iveilalling Wrath, and tempted to iuipeft 

that 



BOOK III. [ 709 1 C H A P. XXVni 
that he i$ not Elected : \t is a more fafc way to 
lay afide all Difputarion about Gods Decree (be- 
caufe fecret things belong ro the Lord,) and to 
look to the Lords Command, and to his own 
Duty of flying untoChrifh So for the recovery 
of a Convert fallen in Jonah's cafe, and made to 
fufpect that he is a Rcprobat caft off of God, 
it is a more lafe way not to difputefor the time, 
cither his EledHon or Converfion whatfoever 
tf^ggeftioifc may be caO: in by Satan, than to 
offer unro G)J an abfoiute 5abmiffion tobefa- 
ved ordeftroyed as Fie p!eafeth,&then to iy iri 
£orrovv fill Jodgiv • ) inftVer of Confolation: 
For, God doth .jot require fttcfa a Sktbnpiifici i, 
but cullcth for an A& of Faith anJ Obedienc. ; 
for, God hath declared in His Word, chat H^ 
delightethnot inthe Death of a Sinnef.'btft that 
he (hould Repent and Tuni to G >d and be fa- 
yed. *SeconJly % in this SubmuTion the Heart will 
be found deceitful which neither will nor cam 
fubmit to be deftroyed. Th/rMy, this Offer of 
fuch a Submiifion as this is, I Lord I knov not 
whether thou haft cfiofen me or rejected me in 
Thy Decree, but I fubmit my felf to The abfo- 
luteiy. If thou wilt deftroy me, Thou fhalt 
be found to be juft, anJ I do confefs lh much 
lintoThee: butif thou wilt lave me, I iliali p:o- 
clameThy Grace] iuch a fubmiliion, i fay, i* 
but ineiled, a tempting of God fpeedily tore- 
real His fecret Counfel, eichcr by Confolittaoj 
if the Submitter be art elect, of utufai of Con- 



BOOK III. [ 7 > o ] CHA P. XXVIH 
foianon if he be a Reprobat The only iafe way 
in che forfaid cafe, isco be tumbled before God 
ani fly to Clirilt by Prayer v as Hem. in d\J,Pf 88. 
and as Jonah did. who choofed to look again to! 
H;s hoiv Temple where the Mediator (at upon 
the Mercy Scat between the Cherubims) 
and not fufFer fuch a Thought as Repro- 1 
barion. Thus did Heman, Pf 83. i 3.14. But un- |: 
to Thee have I cryed, LorJ t and in the Morning 
(ball my prayer prevent Thee. Lord why c aft eft Thou \ 
off my Souljvby hide/I Thou Thy Face from me. Lee •' 
the Command of God to every (elf condemned 
firmer to Believe in Chrift:, prevail againft all 
Temptations to the contain 1 Job. 3. 23. This 
is His Commandment jhat ive Jhould believe on the 
Name of His Son J ejus Chrift. 

The Seventh Qjjeflicn isfow te fat isfie the Convert* \ 
doubting whether it be better to forbear or go oh , 
in theourward exercife of Religion, (at lead in I 
private) when he fmds an indifpofttion of Mind i 
unto it. 



SUndry Converts, when they perceive the 
unfitnefs of their Spines tooffer immediac 
\\ orfhip to God in Prayer, Praifes or Thank£ 
giving, especially in private, do fall in doubt 
with themfeives, whether it be better to delay 
the offer of their Worflup, till they find them- 
fdvesweli difpofed for it, or to go on as they i 
may, a;beit rjiey apprehend their jjps polluted c; 

and 



'BOOK HI. [ 711 1 CHAP. XXVIII. 
and their Hearts far away from God. Their fear 
on the one hmd is, left they Ihouid pollute 
the Worflup and take Gods Name in vain ; on 
the ochcr hand, they fear left they fall in the-guit- 
tinefs of omitting a prescribed Duty. The Que- 
ll on ihall he, what the doubting Convert 
fliould determine and do> 

2. For Anfvver,thisCafe is fpoken unto before, 
2 Book t C/jjp t i-/,m as far as the Convert determi- 
ned! norland doth not what is right, but goetfi 
wrong and pleafeth hrmlelf in his bad conditi- 
on. But here we fpeak to this cafe, as the Con- 
vert is in doubt on'y,&defireth to be keepedfrom 
ving rurrifelf.ln which cafe weiay,that as ic 
is the Converts Doubc,fo we muft confefs, that 
this cafe of Indifpofition and Unfitnefs for fpiri- 
tual Exercifes is very frequent, and is ordinarly 
and oft times a Chaftiiement of us, drawn on 
by our (elves, becauie we do not watch unto' 
Prayer,we do not ftudy to keep our Hearts in 
the Fear of the Lord all the day long, we do not 
foftcr that tendernefs of Conscience which might 
furnifh us matter of Humiliation, and of Thanks- 
giving to God upon o ? )fervation of our Faults 
againlt God, and of Gods Favours dailv and 
hourly remarkably running toward us. Hence 
it is when our ordinar time of fecret Wor- 
fliip doth come, we find our vaiging Minds 
hardly called Home from their wander- 
ing, our Confcieence challenging us for 
our loofe and uncircumfpeft Walking, our 
Y y 3 At- 



BOOK HI [ 7 r * ] CHAP. XXJ\\\ 

AltlccivMiS dull and and dead,and all the powers 
of our $q#1$ taken as with a palfie,that wo can- 
iv-. .... c &i (elves in Worihipas weihouldand 
would. 7 h: efore.in this cafe lee the Convert be 
humblei,a;iJ confefs h'S Fault, and take with 
this C nsntand fly unto Chril}:,whobcar- 

eth aid t^.k:rh &wzy the Iniquity of our pollu- 
tion f-J v . uig$| and let him not defer his 
h.i V»o,:mp till another occafion, but wre- 
ftie againil: all Impediments and follow out 
the Woik in hand.blefiing God for His pointing 
put unto him his Wants and Weaknefs, his 
Wandering and Vanity of Mind, i?i$ Slip- 
ping %nd Sliding in his Ways, and for opening 
unto him a Fountain in Chrift, for wafliing his 
Pollutions and healing his Wounds. And that 
the Convert may be. encouraged to aim at, and 
follow on, this way, Jet him confider, that the 
Converts Worfhip may be pleafarjt and accep- 
tqfelc to God, when the Convert is much diijnea? 
fed with himfclf in the difcharge of it: For, 
tfeere is a Worihiping of God in Faith without 
Seme and Feeling of the Hearts In)argement;and 
there is a Wor duping of God with felt Enlarge- 
ment of Heart The worfhiping of God in Faith 
is plea fa nt unco God, albeit the Worlhiper ia 
perplexitv and wredling with Temptations an4 
Coirbi.'jr-isbc much difpkafed with himffiif. 
The \\ pcftSj pitig o< God vrith lalargement oi 
Heart is [ ilc •■:'.; it^bpth anto God and to the Wqrr 
t^^^&lhh jy)0Wf gives us to 



, BOOK TTI. [ 7H 3 CHA P. XXV 11 

derfiand. / will run the way ofth\ Commandments, 
faith he, when Thou /halt enlarge my Heart. But 
when this mlargement, by (enable Afsiflance ot 
the holy Ghoft is not perceived, the PJalmifl is 
but a dead Man in his own eftimation; yet he 
doth not forbear or delay to worihip God as 
well in Bonds as in Freedom; Quicken me, faich 
he, according toTby loving kindnejs. Therefore, 
let the Convert in this cafe, 1, follow the Exam- 
ple of the Pfalm/JI.vtho ( Pf. 5. 3 ) refolveth to 
call on God with his Voice,that is to follow the 
Work of Prayer externally, prefuppofe his fpiri- 
tual Powers were bound up, and he unable to 
back his Petitions with futable Affections ; My 
Voice > faith he, fhaltThouhearin the Morning, 
Lord, in the Morning will I dire tl my Prayer unto 
Thee, and will look up. And.f/ 27. 7. Hear me 
when I cry with my Voice have Mercy alfo upon me 
and Anjwer me. x.For his encouragement in this 
cafe to go on in his Worihip, let him confefs 
unto God the Truth, as it is prefented unto htm 
by his Confcience, and fay, O Lord my God, 
thefe are my Sins which I ought to acknow- 
ledge before Thee with Tcars,\vhich for the pre- 
sent are dryed up &c. Thefe are thy favours and 
benifits wherewith / am loadened , which / 
jhould acknowiedge with joy and Scnco , of 
Thy Goodncfs,S>r. But Thou Lord delights in 
Tcurh in the inward Parts, Pf 51. 8. This 
will be found our reafonable fervice which the 
Apoltiecalledifor, Rm. iVfc *• 

Tke 



#» 



book m. [ 714 3 chap, xxtin: 

The E'zjjt Q^ejfion is how to fatisfie the Convert 
Jbabtbtg what is the Sin which God pArjueth if 

long lajiing Affliction. 

IT fallcth forth oft-times-,when a trueConvert, 
being a long time prdfcd under fome lading 
dots or Caiamiry,doth enquire after the fpecial 
Caufcs 01 his Affl*&ion;and when he cannot be 
clear what to determine, doth doubt vvifat CO 
think of his Condition: For hfc acknowtedgith 
his SitiSjCommon to him and other Converts, 
to be innumerable ; but appfehendeth that it is 
fom? fpecial ^Sin purfued by God, which is the 
Caufe of his Affli&ion.which becaufe he cannot 
condefceftd upon, he is at a frand,and doubtetli 
what to think or do. 

2. For anuver we fay, i.fuch a cafe is more 
troublefome than dangerous;for fo long as he is 
cbferving Ivs Sins, common to him & other Con- 
verts and in the Exercife of Repentance is daily 
humbled before God for his known Sins,hemuft: 
not be ar xicus albeit he know not ihe parMcular 
Sin purfued, as he apprehendeth : For, albeit 
the Lord aiHid: no Man bat fuch as have Sin in 
them, yet He doth not always, in affli&ing of. 
KhsChildren, purfue unknown Sin in them For 
fometime He affiidkth His Child to Jprevccn 
his Winning, hedging up his way with Thornes, 
leit he fhould follow after beloved Lufts. Some* 
rime He doth afflift him to try his Faith to, 






BOOK nii t in? 1 CHAP. XXVIII 

teach him Parience/Vktkncfs, Temperance and 
other Virtues, i'uch as are Dyingto the World, 
Seeking after Things fpiritual.Gw^^w* toward 
others in Affli&ion. x.When the Aifltdred hath 
compofed his Mind to reverence God's Difpcn- 
fation, wlaatfoever it is or fhall be,thcn let him 
yet again look- upon his Affli&ion, and it may 
be he fhall read in the Rod what is the Lord's 
Quarrel. 3. Whether he fhall find the fpecial 
Caufeof his Affliction or not,let him turn all his 
Indignation, Zeal and Hatred againft the Body 
of Death the bitter Pvoot and bulk of aftualSins, 
and watch diligently over . theMotions oi r origi- 
nal Sin or Goncupitcence u\ himfe'i*. 4 And 
let his Whole Exercife ftirhim up to havd-Chrift 
in greater eftimation, to make ulb of Chrifts 
Righteoufnefs imputed to ..Bc!icvcrs,aad ro invo- 
cat His holy Name for the right uic- making o| 
his Affliction. 

The Ninth Q^ejtion is, how Remiffion of Sin may 
be [aid to be granted in refpeft of Sins to come. 

IT is commonly faid, that the Converrjn his 
Juflification, hath the RemifTion of Sins by- 
gone and Sins to come: whereupon the Quefti- 
on is moved, how this can (land with daily re- 
newed Remifiion of daily Sins; on the one hand, 
daily renewed Rcmiffion feemeth not necefTary, 
Firft becaufe we believe that Remiflion of all 

Sin 



BOOH TIL- [ 7 1 6 ] CHAP. XXVIILJ 
Sin, tsrhe priviledge of all Believers in Chrift, 
and me abndegement of the fp^ciai Articles of 
Faith ice down in the Apofties Creed, as it iscai- 
led.holdeth this forth. iBecaufe k. is certain, 
that Chrift,in His Death,did compleat the pay- 
ment of the Price of Redemption from all Sin, 
as i Job. i. j. The Blood of Jefus thrift cleanfeth us 
from all Sifts. 3 We arefaid to be not under the 
Law but under Grace,and fofred from theCurfe 
of the Law. 4. Becaufe if daily Remiflionof Sin 
be neceflar to be granted, then it prefuppones, 
that both Originaf Sin, and every A&ual Sin 
flowing forth iromitdaily, mull be taken notice 
©f, reckoned for,and repented of daily,which is 
impoflible. On the other hand, the Convert 
Teeth, that every tranfgrellion of, and difcon- 
formity to the Law is£in; and the Apoftle.i.M. 
j. 8. (peaking of himfelf and other Converts, 
faith, If we fay we have no Sin, we deceive $ur 
felves, and the Truth is mt inns. And Chrift: 
hath taught us, as oft as we pray for our daily 
bread, to pray alfo for the Rcmifiion of Sins.- 
The queftion is, how the doubt of the Con- 
yerf vnay be cleared } 

% For anfvver: We mud grant to the Convert, 
{that Original Sin remaineth m the Believer,and 
is not only an exceeding Sin,as the Apoftle cal- 
lethit, Rom 7. 13. but alfo is the Fountain of 
alt A&ual Sins which doth pollute the Contci- 
ence, and fometinws alio the outward Man. %. 
.We muft grant alfo, that there cannot be ait 



COOKIIT. [ 717 ] chap xxva 

a&ual& properly calledRemiflion of Stna which 
are not yec commited:Fot,no Man is guilty of 
that fault wherewith he cannot be charged ; FQr 
fuch a Rcmiffion were a Difpenfation & License 
to Sin.fuch as the Pope grantcth to his fla/estc* 
gratifie thcm,in allowing their vile Lufts foriti- 
riching himfclf with the price of that Iniquity. 
3. /f fuch an actual Remiffion of Sins were gv 
ven irijuftification.theoncejuftified perfon coul4 
never become a daily Debtor by his daily tranf- 
greffions contrary to the Declaration of Chx>f| 
in one of the Articles of the Lords Prayer 

3. For folving the Doubt then we muft di* 
ftinguiih the Significations andaccepiions of /te- 
miffion of Shi: For,* it is taken for Rcmifiion pur* 
chafed by Chrift, by virtue of the Covenant of 
Redemption,^ favours ofthcEie<3\ butnatap^ 
plied unto the Eled before the Mans Convert 
flon.Heb. 10. n, 1 ]. 14. Bat this Man after he 
had offered one Sacrifice for Sins for ever, fat doves 
en the Right Hand of God: from henceforth expect- 
ing till his His Enemies be made His FcotfhoL 
For by one Offering He hath perfected for ever tbetq 
that are Sanctified, i./c is taken for RemhTio^ 
prcwi/edby Chrift to all that ihali believe in him 
to be bellowed on them ib ibon as they {hall 
tumto H\m, A :Lz6 ,iZ .Thirdly it is taken forthc 
Sentence of Ab joint 1 or judiciailv apply cd & adjud- 
ged to the a&ual Bcltever. Eph. l.j.In whomwe 
have Redemption through His Blood, the Forgive- 
%ejs of Sifts accorfin^ to the Riches of fits Grace. 






BOOK TIT. T 7^8 1 CHAP.XXVfl 

4, For the atlual Remifw* of a] J Sins pad be- 
fore his converfian,. Rom. 3. xj, whom God 
bath fet forth to he a P ropit 1 at /ov? ^through F^th in 
FftsBlood to declare fits High eo^Jnefs for the remtf- 
fion:ofSins that are fad, through the forbearance of 
God. 5*. For a condant right to daily remiision 
of Sin. and accefs to the Fountain opened up in 
theHoufeof David, fthat is to all the Children, 
of thehoufhold of Fairh in Chrift) Zech. 13. t 
In that day there fhall : he a Fountain opened to the 
Houje of David, and to the inhabitants of Jcru fa- 
lcm, for Sin and for Uncle annefs % 

4. So then the Convert hach, firft the atlual 

Remijfion of all Sins preceeding his converfion, 

and with all his State, changed from being a 

fehild of Satan, to be a Child of God. Second- 

ty, he hath Right unto daily remiflion of Sins, 

fcs "they fall out after converfion : for, Chrift, 

fpeaking of the Remiflion had in the time of 

tonverfion,calleth it a Wafting of the whole Man, 

Tbh. 13. 10, He that is waften .needeth not to waft, 

five his Feet) but is wholly clean, to wit, for the 

State of his perfon accepted in Chrift, and for 

the application of his Right unto daily Remit 

•fion. Chrift tracheth all His Difciples daily to 

>piay for it, which Chrift calleth the wafting of 

the Believer's Feet.]o\\ t 13, 10. 

5*. For anfwer to the Objections, made a- 
gainft the neceility of daily renewed Remiflion 
of Sin, let it be remembred, that the Article of 
©urCiccd 15 fo far from making dail) RcmilCon 

of 



BOOK III ,[ 719 1 CHAP. XXV: 
of Sin not neceflar, that of Necefsity it muft be 
extended, not only to the Rcmifsion of Sins 
part before Converfion, but alfo to the Right 
made unto us,for daily Remifsion of the Sins 
which run daily from the reli&s of corrupt Na- 
ture not fully mortified; for otherways, the 
Believer could not have quiet Confolation in 
the daily Excrcife of renewed Repentance and 
Faith in Jefus Chrift.i.As tothe Second Obje&i- 
on concerning the pcrfeft purchafe made by 
Chrift of Remifsion by-paftand to come;lt doth 
prove indced,that there is no other Sacrifice for 
Sm, nor Price o* Redemption from Sin,fave that 
which wascompleated on theCroft ,bur it doth 
not prove,that we muft only once make Applica- 
tion of this Purchafe; for.Chrifikecpcth the full 
Purchafe in His own Hand, and doth let forth the 
Application thcreofas we (land in need in His 
own order and by degrees, till He perfect 
us in San&ification and Glorification alfo. 

6. As for the Third Objs&ion, we mud not 
think, that when we are ioofedfrom the Law 
as a Covenant of Works, we are loofed alfo from 
the Commands of the Law:For,the Covenant of 
Works prefcribed in the Law, is pofterior both 
in order of Nature and Time to the natural 
Writing of the Law in Mans Heart, Rom^ %\ 15-. 
And therefore when the Covenant of the Law* 
of Works is taken ofF,the Authority of the Law to 
direct and corpraan4 all Mqral Duties doth re- 



main 



BOOK 111 [ ;io ] CHAP. XXVlIi; 
r.am,and can no irjore be Ji(Ib[ved,thcn the Ob- 
ligation of the Rcafonable Creatu;e to be Obe* 
dicnt to the Creator,can b: abohlhcd:and there- 
fore^vhen theBeJiever falieth in a Tranigrelsion 
he meriteth Death and Defiru&ion as the Wa- 
ges of Sin, but Chrift our Advocat, Who liveth 
for ever to make /.itercefsion for us, holds o^ 
the Execution of deferved Wrath, and givsth to 
the Believer the Grace of renewed Repentance 
and Faith in Him,and fo faveth the Believer, i 
Job. i. 9. and, 2. 1. 

7. As for the laft Objection, taken from the 
impofsibility of knowing,taking notice of,or Con* 
fcfiifig every Sin, wherewith we are daily pollu- 
ted.or r rom the lmpoflibility of putting Repen- 
tance anu Faith in exercife about every particu- 
lar Sin;wc s'Ave^firft.that the Children of God i 
notwichftancing of this impoflibility acknowled- 
ged by then^have fought and obtained renewed 
Rcmii'lion of their innumerable Sins,P/, 40. ix. 
and pf. 19 ii 13. 

8. Secondly > fuch asarejuftified by Faith upori 
eortfefsion of fuch Sins asthey know and do re- 
member arc accepted c r Goi,asif they bad con- 
fefled all their Sins p:;ticuiarly, becaufe he Chat 
hath no Mind to deny c excufc any Sin in htni* 
felf.but is billing ro open up his Heart to God 
fdfincerity t ,aad ro confefs '&reiy particular if he 
were abie,heljath prefented a contrite Heart h$* 
fore God. which ua lacrifice Acceptable ro God, 

tjL $1. 8. 9.F/3&1* and tbft much uSo Chnil 

do*a 



B 00 K III. [ j% i ] CHAP: XXVlTT. 
doth teach us, fpeaking of the Vullhan who 
made a fliort and general ConfcfTion of his Sins 
infinccncy, and Went homejuftifiid, Luk. 18. 
13. 14: 

Thirdly, It is not impofliblc for a watchful 
Conicicnce to obferve daily, as many particular 
Sproucings from the root of in-born Sin, as may 
humble him daily.and bear down all Confidence 
in his own Righteoufnefs, and furnifh to him 
matter for cxcrcife of Repentance and Faith in 
Chrift.And this LefTon the Lord did teach His 
People under the Law, by the twice offering Sa- 
crifice every Day, Morning and Evening,thatHis 
People observing daily the running lllue of cor- 
rupt Nature, might daily have their recourfe by 
Faith unto the Lamb of God, that takes away 
die Sins of His own People and hitherto we arc 
directed to look, #45. zi. and, 1 Job. 2.. i. 
Mean time, on the one hand, let us beware to 
lay any tort of Merit upon our daily Exercife 
of Faith and Sorrow for Sin in our Repentance^ 
otherways wefhouldbe found Offerers unto God 
of fatisfection from us, and not Suiters of Remit 
fion of Sins from God ; and on the other band, 
let usbewareto be difcouraged,albeit wedonoc 
fiad daily the renewed Intimation and feni'eof 
Rernifsioo, But as we apply the Law to our 
felves in the Exercife of Repentance; fo kc us 
apply the Sentence of Abfolurion pronounced 
in the Gofpel in favours of every PeniteneSoui 
that flyeth to Chrift for Refuge,, 

tbt 



B O O K m [ 711 ] CHAP. XXVIII, 

The Tenth QjAeflhn Jhdflie; concerning Spiritual 
JDifpqfitions' cf Mind and Qualifications, whch way 
he joined with, or feparat from, the jptcial Work of 
true Converfion andjaving Grace. 

THe Apoftle, Heh 6 4. j. 6 9. io.tells us rif 
fundry Qualifications which may be found 
in unconverted Men, and alfo he tells us of let- 
ter things which do accompany Salvation, and are 
fure evidences of Regeneration. Of the firft forr, 
there are, anlong others, thefe five. 1. A legal 
Convidtion of the vilenefs of Sin and Vanity of 
the World. 2 A renouncing of ualawful Plea- 
lures, joyned with a refraining even from law- 
ful and allowed wordly Delights. 3. A natural 
defire of Salvation and of San&ification, that 
they may may be faved. 4. A purpofe to live 
RighteouflyJHolily and Soberly in this prcfent 
World. 5-. An outward change of Manners and 
Converfairon, fo far as they may be b!armlefs 
before Men. Thefe and fuch like Qualifications 
may make a fair fhovv in the Flefli, and yet may- 
be found to be not only in true Con verts,but alfo 
in fuch as are Strangers from the Life of God: 
iSuch WnstheApotttePW beforeConvcrfion;fuch 
was Ifrael, Rom 9. 31. Which followed after the 
Law of Right eon 'fnefs, and did not at tun to the 
Law of Right eoufnefs Who being ignorant of Gods 
Righteoufnefs t and going about to efiablifh their own 
Rightioafnefs, did not fubmit themjelves to the 

Rigfj- 



.■' J. 



BOOK III. f 7*3 1 CHAP. XXVIU 

Rightcoufnefs of God, Rom 10. 3. Of this (ore arc 
u ch of the Papifts, who go about to be ju (lifted 
by chcir own Works, and do but mock at the 
Imputation of Chrift's R;ghteoufnc(s, calling ic 
Blafphcmoufly, a putatitious or conceited Righ- 
ceoufnefs ; not confidering, that the Pope and 
his Servants do reckon the /mputation of the 
Rightcoufnefs and Merits ot Men, and of the 
Superfluity of the Saints Righteoufnefs, by real- 
Ton of their Works of Supererogation, to be 
worth a great Sum of Money, as they find their 
Merchants. 

Concerning ihefe five Qualifications, fome 
Converts, efpecially fuch as defire to fee the 
Evidences of SavingGrace in thofe with whom 
they will joyn in the fociety of Church- mem- 
ber lhip, may. make queftion what to think, 
whether they be Saving Graces, or common 
Operations of the Spirit. 

2. For anfwer we rauft diftinguifli between a 
Man's judging of thofe Qualifications in him- 
felf, and bis judging of another, in whom thefe 
Qualifications appear to be; for, a Man judg- 
ing of himielf, may attain to a clear and certain 
jdilccrning ofSavingGrace in himfelf,asthe Apo- 
ftlegivech us to understand, 1 Cor, 1. 11. 12. In 
which cafe of our judging of our (elvcs,thismuch 
maybe (aid ;that if a Man find in himfelf,thofe 
Qualifications joyned with Faith in Chrift foe 
jliglneoufnsft and eternal life,and is feeking fur- 

Z z niturc 



TOOK Hi [ ZH I CHAP. XXV1IL 
riture from Chrift cVhjring forth Fruits of his 
Faith in new obedience he may be quiet ami 
be one of doubt of faving Grace inhimfelf. For, 
unto fucha perfon, the Difcript?o<i of a true 
* Convert may fafely be applyed, Vhil 3, 3. Wt 
are the Qircumctfion, &c And pre-lbppofe he 
liath obferved thefe Qualifications in himfclfy 
before he obierved his clofmg wkhChrilt.or his 
application ofthcOrF:r orReconciliation through 
Him 8 he neither needeth norfhould trouble him* 
feifor others with qucftioning.whethcrfuch anJ 
fuch Qualifications in him, before his fixing on I 
Chrift, were the common or fpecialOperarions of 
the Holy Ghoft For,feing the Kingdom of Hea- jl 
ven comcth not with obfervations always, it is j 
hard to determine of the ftrft Beginnings of the 
working of Saving Grace by the holy Spirit, 
becaufe faving Faith hath in it the fubftancc of 
Hiftorical, Dogmatical and Temporary Faith,' 
And theretore, when both Saving Faith, and 
Hiftorical, D^gmtical aid Temporary Faith^ 
may produce Belief of the Law, and convince 
the Man of Sin, and Wrath due for Sin, and pro- 
duce the Belief of the Gofpel alfo without Ap-; 
plication of the Offer of Reconciliation, how 
fliali a Man determine whether thefe EiTeds 
were produced by venue of Dogmatical and 
Temporary Faith, or by vertue of Saving Faith,? 
urtil the time that the humbledSinner fly in un- 
•oChfif^and feck todrawFurniturefron^Him for 
new obedience of the Law of Love coward 

God 



bOOKITI. [71s] CHAP.XXVlJf. 
God and Man, and (b put difference betwixt 
Saving Faith, and that faith which maybe in an 
Unrtv:nerat and Unreconciled Man ?But, when 
the Man is come up to apply Chrifi, and cleave 
tinio Him for Righteoufncis and Lire, and Fur- 
ftiture to carry him on the way unto Salvation, 
it is no$ his Wifdpm to difpute uhcrher tl 
five (Salifications were common Operations of 
the Spirit, or EfFcdJs of Saving faith, not as 
yet manifeftcd to be fuch, before the peri'on did 
clofe Covenant with God inChrift, for not im- 
puting his Sins unto him, and making folid Re- 
conciliation With him. 

3. As forjudging of others, when we obferve 
ihefe QiKilrfica^ions, all or fome of them, we 
muft not determine pofitivcly what fort of Ope* 
ration the holy Ghoft hath in hand; but our 
part is,accordtngto ourPlaceandCalling, to help 
pndie lead preparatory Qualifications, which 
may fervcto be inductive and fcrviceable to be- 
get and fofler Saving /aith in them, even when 
the fcnCc of Sin and Unworthinefs is like to 
drive them from Chrift, as it did Peter, when 
fie cryed out unto Chrift, Depart -from me \0 Lord, 
for I am c Sinful ftlan. For.God "hath not made 
as Judges of the Operations of the holy Ghoft 
in this or that perfon, but to be their helpers 
unto Faith when we perceive any good Qualifi- 
cation in them, and helpers of their Repentance 
when we perceive any Out-breaking Evil in 
them. 

£zi the 



^ > 



BOOK 111 [ 7z6] .CHAP.XXVIil. 

The Eleventh Q^elJion foil fo % of the Convert's 

floubtim vbhai to chink of his Condition, when he 

finds more freedom of Prayer in the prejence and 

audience of others .then when he prayeth in Jecret 

alone, 

IT is not a cafe unufual, that fome Converts 
do find a great deal of freedom of Prayer in 
iae audience ofothers, more then alone ; for, 
they have experience.that when they pray inthe 
audience oforhers in their Family , or occafionai- 
ly eife where,their Prayer is more copious theti 
when they are alone,their Stile of Speech more 
polilhed, their words in better order, theirExpreC- 
fions more fignificant,their notions more fubhme, 
more fervent, more zealous then when they arc 
in iecret in their Cioiet; which difference, when 
they confider, they doubt what the Matter 
doth mean. 

z. For anfwer,/ 7 //-/?, there is a difference to be 
put between folitaryPrayer in ftcret,andPrayeir 
in Society with otherS:for,in fecrer oft-times the 
Convcrt'sWorihip is carried on in the ftrnfc of his. 
£infulnefs,Unworthincfs and /ndifpofition, pre- 
fenced to God through Chrifr, with Sighs and 
confufed Groans without Words; fcr he fludieth 
molt for Affcdhon, and not for Words, having 
no E'ir to care for but the Ear of the Searcher fi 
of Hearts, Who knowerh his Weaki.cfs, Fears, < 
Tcnrations and wreftling with Doubts. But in 
company he ttudieth molt to make uie of know- 
ledge, 



BOOK III. [7*7] f H A P. XXVIH. 

4edge,and to cxprefs himfclf fb.ashc may carry 
along the company vyich whom he prayech with 
confent.that he may Ed i fie himfclf and them in 
vvorfhip; and in this cafe, he may find greater 
freedom podibly then hefindeth alone in iccccr. 
it is oft-times found, that God (for 
His own Glory, and the mutual Edification of 
Two or Three gathered together in HiS Name,) 
doth inlarge the freedom of Speech in the 
Speaker, 

Upon which 4 Confederations, the doubting 
Convert may fnisfre himfeif; only let him bc- 
vvarx y,n Glory,- or it u dyin^ to have the 

applaufeo^" tuch-.as hear i\ir^ r pfay, do ndcbSovv 
Wind in his Sails; and in a? far as after Exami- 
nation he nbqech lumfelf guilty ,lec hi m, when ; 
hein is fecrct aloqe,*. be humbled before God 
for it, and crave g^4qn thro j^h Chrtlt feeking 
Help and f^e^Rg of this wicked Inclination. 

7l:e Twelfth Qutftion /hall he ef the Doubt which 
the Convert may have in a cafe contrary to the 
-former. 

SOme Converts do find themfelvcs mo.-e en- 
larged in fecret Prayer and alone, then in 
the company of one or moe. In company, faith 
he, /cannot utter my own private Condition 
without a neeJlcfe and inconvenient difco- 
veryofmy prefenc cafe to others, and / can 
hardly conjecture what may be their Necefiity 

Z z 3 with 



BOOK III ? 4 718 ] CHAP. XXVII! j 

with whom / pray,or condcfcend upon Petitions [ 
and Thankigiving fit for us in common. / am tl 
tgken up alfo with Thoughts of what Eftima* 
tion my Hearers may have of me. &c. But irj 
fecret Prayer I am freed of that care, I am not 
feared that God ilnll 'mif conftrue my W6rd$,. 
or Thoughts. I may in fecret imke a loi^Paule, 
in my Pennons, arid fall in Meditation upon 
fame Paflage of Scripture and- after a while di- 
red my fpeech unco the Lord : 1 , m^y cxprefle 
my Affe&ions by Voice and Gefture, is they 
fail our, anJ pour foi-th my Heart to God with 
Tears, without fear of being efteemed an Hypo- 
crite, &c Meafi tsQie / doubt what mylndif- 
poLtion to pray in company doth import, when 
Dpty calleth for it. 

2. For Anfwer, we grant^tHt God, to fomc 

of His dcar£aint$,wh6fe Pr-a^brs in fecret He 

Will accept and reward 6peiity,oHWh L not givc-i 

ability to edifie others by way of praying in their 

tudiznee ; to others in regard of Age or Sex, to 

whomModefty and Silence is moft fuitable, He 

hath not given confidence to pray in name 6f 

6ther$* whether moe or fewer, as th<*ir Mouth. 

But 3$ for theie, to whorft God hath given 

Ability find a Calling, by reafbn of aGharge fa 

thtf Family, or forne occafional Exigence, to 

pt#y ?n the audiet3ce of 1 others, and yet notwith- 

handing rhcy do-iofter their natural Aveifnefs 

horn fucha Dury, tht?y had need to examine 

diesnfelm, whether they be hindered by Fear 



B 00 K m. [ 7 z9 ] CHA P. XXVJIf. 
r o Lofs fome of their Eflimation at the Hands of 
the Hearers, if poflibly all things fljould not be 
found fo well digefted and exprcflcd in the 
Piaycr, as they would. 

TbetbirteettbQjjeffion Jhall he oftheConvert'i ehufo- 
ing what to think, when he com par -etb his Dtjpo- 
fit ion to prayer , and God s Dijpenjation toward 
hint in Prayer. 

SUndry Converts, when they compare their 
own divers Difpofitions to Prayer, with 
the divers difpenfations of God toward them in 
Prayer, they are at a Hand whac to think. Some- 
time ( faith one) abcitlbc very hardly drawn 
to pray at all, yet when after wreftling, thcCon- 
fcience of the Duty doth fee me on work, my 
Prayer gocth on as / could Willi, Light is fur- 
niihed to me what to confefs, what to thank 
for, what to feck both for my fclfand others; 
whereby I gather/or the time,that the Lord is 
pleafed with my perfon in Chrift, and hath ac- 
cepted my Prayer. Sometime it fareth othcrways 
with me: For, when Time, Place, and Leifure 
for Prayer concur, and lam now about to make 
ufe of opportunity, and do fall down before the 
t.ord to fpeak, on a fudden, I have nothing to 
to fay; Matter, Words and Light do fail me, 
Darknefs and Confufion falleth on my> Mind, 
and my Prayer fundry times is Hopped, and clo^- 
•fcr.li with a Sigh or Groan ; which Difpofitions 

Z. i 4. of 



• ' 



B OOK 111 [ 730 ] CHAP. XXVltl 
of myHcart and Difpenfations of the Lord when 
/ compare,/ am in doubt what to think. 

z. For anfwer, in the firft cafe, concerning 
the Lord's Biefling of the aiming at duty, the 
matter is clear and fpeaks for it ielf ; for, God 
will have us to aim at aright frame of Spirit 
when we are about the difcharge of any 
part of his Worfhip, but not forbear to do the 
Duty, if we cannot reach that fitnefs of Spirit 
which we defire; let us ftrive againft all /impedi- 
ments, and God will help us to fight, will give 
thcVi(9ory,andReward it for our encouragment 
to fet upon our duty. 

As for the other cafe of fitting on the Duty, 
and milling of Furniture to discharge it, let us 
confider, that God inthisDifpenfation is teach- 
ing us, that both the difcharge of any Duty, 
and the Sucrels thereof, do not depend upon 
him that willeth, or on him that runneth, but 
upon God that fheweth Mercy; yea Heteach- 
eth us by experience,that to Will and to Do are 
two difiind: Gifts, the one whereof, fometime 
He will give and not the other, and fometime 
He will give both, that we may learn not to 
limit the Lord in any ca(l\ but really acknow- 
ledge that every good Gift is from Him, that 
we may aim at our Duty, and depend on Him 
for the Bietfing, 



Tk 






BOOK Ul. [ 731 ] CHAP. XXVIII 

The Fourteenth Quedion is, how tofave the Doult 
of the Convert in another like Qomparijon of his 
Difpofition and God's Difpenfation. 

SOme Converts, out of their own Experi- 
ence, may fay, / being in a fad condition 
of Heart, have fundry tirrnes diligently ufed all 
Means to be comforted; and have wondred 
within my felf, that my Pains have produced no 
hoped-for efTed, but the Heart hath lyen dead, 
like the Child of the Shmamit, when Gehaji hid, 
the Staff of Rlifha upon him. At anotherume 7 
have Been furprized unexpt&edly with lnlarge- 
ment of Heart, with liberty of Speech in Prayer, 
with Peace and Joy in the holy Ghoft, to the 
no fmall confirmation of my Faith, and what to 
think of this divers Difpenfation, I cannot tell. 
c. For anfwer, the Doubt may befati$fied,by 
Obfervation of the Lord's Grace and W idiom 
toward His Child ; in the firft cafe, He giveth 
Grace to ufe the Means, and fufpendeth the 
fenfiblc Fruits thereof, to teach us, 1. that He 
hath indeed tyed us to the ufe of all appointed 
Means, but left Eiimfelf free to give the Fruits 
thereof, in what time, and in what meafurc He 
p!eafeth.2.He teacheth us that whatfoevcrBene- 
fitHe doth beftow upon us in the ufe of theMeans, 
He doth beftow them, not for the ufing of the 
Means,but Ij the ufingof theMeans.3.He teacheth 

us 



BOOI1. III.- { 73* 1 CHA P. XXVIII. 
us, that there is no inherent Vertue, nor ef- 
fectual Power in theMcans.but that the Mean $ 
are the wavwhercin we mud walk, that we may 
find theBieffing from God in ufing the Means, 
and not put confidence in them 4 He teachcth us 
whatfocver Mean or Inflrument is made u(e of, 
we fliould withfW planting and Apollo watering, 
give the glory of the Increafe,Fruit and Succefs 
unto God alone, 

3. As to the other Cafe, ' wherein the Lord 
doth prevent His Childs ufing of Means, and 
givethan Anfwer ere he call, thereby He teach- 
eth us the fame Lcflbn, to wit, that whatBlef- 
fing God dorh give, He doth it freely of Grace 
and not for Works. 2, He teacheth us, that 
what Bleflhg vvc expedi in the ufe of the 
Means He will giveit,not when we would, nor 
in what meafure we would,but as He fees it fit- 
ted for our Good and His own Glory, that {© 
wcfhould neither be fruftrat of the Fruit of the 
Means ufing, nor yet conceive the Fruit thereof 
as a deferved Reward of Works, but 4s a Gift 
of mcer Grace. 

The Fifteenth Queflion, /hall he ahout the Meafure 
of Mortification or SantJification^ whether it le 
growing or decaying. 

Ft-times true Converts fall in this Doubt, 
not indeed when they arc in a fenfible 

and 




BOOKFI. [ 735 ] CHAP. XXVltt- 

and corner, able cond-rion, for then they Teem 
ro the/hie!ves to he gKDtf'iftg in Ho'incis;ncithcr 
fa/1 cViey in this D»»uSc when their Conoli{io,i is 
frnfibly TaiI, as Then the power of in-born Sin 
cither breaketh fimth in.aclioricYrerirvilly.or de- 
filerh their Spint ar lt«ft; fa rtttftltfte? teem to 
themf^esto be defying >i ir th»OojV* arifeth 
When they ae gfcifl . rtwfct ord'^.a y vayof 

a bUmelds Con venation, without any obferva- 
vable change of char {p '.ritual corivti » oft to the 
better or co the wocfe. Ihen i$ it, that they 
teem to thcmfcl ve$ m a ^u&ou* condition, and 
cannot fay,whether Mc*ftlificarfott>6f corrupt Na- 
ture, or SarK3iftcat&»* be on the growing hand, 
or nor. 

x. For anfwer to this Doubt abdut the Mea- 
fore of Holittcfs, i.it is not fafe curioufly to in- 
quire, what itteafureofBolme&a Mati hath at- 
tained : ; For, as k is not gv&d to eat much Honey \ 
So fdfi Attn tofearcb out tf>eir own Glory, it is not 
glory, PrOV. z$* ij. 

Secondly, it is hard to determine the Quefti- 
on: for, God ufeth to hide from His Children, 
especially the younger fort, thefe Operations^ 
of Hire holy 'Spirit wh'teh may in air; fort weaken 
their endeavour in Rety,o> finfew Pride in them, 
butHc difcovers unto them their Sinfulness anj 
the Imfftf fifttdns of rheir ObeJience, that fie 
may fct forward their Repentance and laying 
holdqnChrifts Rightcoufiiefs. 

... Thirdly, 



BOOK III [ 734 ] CHAP. XXVIII. 
Thirdly, there is fiich an inftabilicy of any good 
condition wherein any Convert ma) $be,fo great 
variety ofTentations, (uch a viciiiicude ofVidto- 
ry of the Fefh and of the Spirit in their daily 
Conflict, that hardly can any Man fatisfie him- 
feif in the folution of this Queftion : For. he 
who thought himfeif dead to the Lulls of th.3 
Flelh, and to Riches and Honour, may fhortly 
find himfeif overtaken in the Net, and fall foul- 
ly in the Mire, and be found carnal. 

Therefore, let him that (lands take heed lcaft 
he fall, let him yvatch v and pray led he be over- 
come in Tcntation, te&him tiudy to obfervc 
the Wickednefs of Nature,and Imperfections 
of his beft Works, that the Righteoufnefs of 
Chrift may be irt greaterEftimation in our Eyes, 
and we may grow in Faith and Love toward God, 
drawing Vertuefrom Chrift,airi furniture to e- 
\ ery good Work. This is the W T ay to grow 
in Holinefs indeed, and not to be proud for ar 
ny thing in us, or done by us; and this, is the 
way wherein the Apoftle did conilantly walk, 
Tl^iL 3. 14, 15-, 16. 

Tpe Sixteenth Que ft ion /& what th^Ccnveri \ff$fo 

think or Jo in hard Afflictions. 

WHcn theConvert doth fall inlong-fome 
bodily Difeafes and' fad Afflidions. 
by unexpected and long laftipg Adyerfi- 



BOOK III. [735-1 CHAP. XXV1I/. 
ty, when Satan is permitted to vex him with 
fore Tentations when God doth hide His Face 
for a long time from him, when He cxpofeth 
him unto the cruel perfecution of worldly Men, 
he cannot choofc but fall in many Doubts and 
Perplexities; For, when God doth immediatly 
afflicl him, he readily lufpe&eth that God is 
angry at him; if He loufe Reins unto Satan to 
fife him and vex him, if He anfwer nothisSup- 
plications,comfort him not readily, what wonder 
multitude of Thoughts arife in his Heart? The 
queftion is, in this cafe,vv hat lliall the Convert 
think or do > 

2. For anfwer./t is true, the Lord ufeth oft- 
times in His deep Wifdom and unchangeable 
Love to His Children, to exercife them, as is 
faid, and Satan will not fail to whifper in their 
Ear, that God doth not love them ; in which 
cafe, if the Con vet t do not (land faft,in the Faith 
of the Love of God through Chnft, in all His 
Tentations he cannot ftand out in the 
Conflict. 

Thereforc,thar he may guard and ftrcngthen 
his Faith,/ 7 //*/?, let him feek Wifdom from God, 
to expound the Lords Difpcnfations toward 
himfclf, by the Word and Working of God 
in His Children, fct down in the holy Scrip- 
ture; in exercifing of whom by Affliction, 
He hath difcovercd the Corruption of 



their 



BQ'OrilT. f 736 ] GHAP.XXV1H. 

their Nature, the bitter Fruits of Siri,anclpromo- 
ved the work of Mortification of finful Lufts 
that are ir> the World, ro wit.the Luft of the 
Eye,tbe Luft of the Flelh and Pride of Life,and 
taught them Humiliry,Meekncfs,Patience,Tern- 
perancc and Compafiion toward others in Af- 
fliction. Secondly, let him fee his Affeftions on 
Tbmgs {piritual;and on our blefied Redeemer 
JefusChrift.Who is at the right Hand of the Fa- 
ther making Interceflion for all them that call 
upon Him, that they mav be fa ved, a! ways re- 
membering that as rbe Law is a Pedagogue to; 
lead usand draw us unto Chrift; Co rufUdion 
is a Pedagogue to icj&j us to 'the Law, and to; 
ChrifttheEnd of the li'a\V te^ Rvghreoufne(san4 
and Life. fkiraly^ct him iearn,ih examination 
of his own condition, accuracy to diftingu iffi 
the Lords part exerciieing him with trouble^ 
for Tryal and training him on in the Obedience 
of Faith, as for his own Glory ,(b for the good of 
His AfflicSed- Child; and Satans part in Cruelty, 
Craftinefs and Malice, tempting and vexing 
him;and his own part, who hath delerved much 
more AffiicSton then is come upon him: which 
Confederations may keep him from fretting and 
murmuring in his Trouble, how heavy foever 
it be^ Fourthh\kt him put difference between 
finning and fuffering of trouble, that he may 
• choofe to endure Affiic2:ioiT,rather then by Sin- 
ning draw on much more trouble. 

i. But 






BOOK III. [ 737 ] CH AP. XXV1I1. 
3. But if the afflicccd Convert feem to him- 
felfdefertcd of God, in refpect of the fpccial 
Operations of the holy Ghoft,lethim bo of good 
courage he is not altogether dcfcited who can 
obiervc the decaying of Saving Graces from the 
mcafure he hath found before; he is not alto- 
gether deferted, who loveth Communion with 
God, and longeth after it, and can go to God 
and rcgratc his Defertion as a fad Affliction; 
for, if our loving Lord Jefus Chrift hath with- 
drawnHimtelfout of the fight of His Afflicted 
Chile?, yet hath He prefumed His own Foot* 
fteps with the Unction of His own Spirit, that 
He may quicken and kindle His Childs Love 
and De fire toward Him.This regratcd Defertion 
is but in part,not altogetheriyea it is not a real 
but a feeming Defertion. The Lord rcftctlt 
it. His Love, albeit He hide the Effe<5ts of 
HisLove for a time; He preferveth the lubits of 
Saving Grace as His own feed in the Affli&ei 
Heart,albcit He do not always draw them forth 
unto A&ion: If He withdraw the fight of Sav- 
ing Grace, yet He augment* the Eftimation of 
them, and langour to find the Lord working in 
him. If the Afflicted obfervc well, he (hall fee 
the Hand of the Lord in fome part of his Works, 
(o that in his hardeft condition he may fay, 
with the Plalmifl; Pf. 75, tfevertbeleft J am 
continually with Thee, Thw hoUejl nts wth Thy 
right Hand. 

4- If 



BOOK 111 r 738 } CHAR XXVI11. 

4. /fit fliall plea(e God,with immediat Af- 
flictions from Himfelf,to fuffer not only Satan 
t© fight againft the Faith ahd Confolation of 
His Child, but ai(o to fuper-add a fiery Trial 
of his Faith by cruel perfecutionfor Righteoul- 
nefs, lcthitn ftill, for all this, be of good cou- 
rage, becaufe in all fuch Battels the Lord of 
Hoftes fliall be with him, Who will not fuffer 
His Souldiers to be tempted above their itrength 
but with the Tentation, will give an iflue, that 
they may efcape, and will furnifli ftrengch, to 
them, that they fliall overcome; for, He hath 
laid up a Grown of Righteoufnels for all them 
that keep the Fairh, and at laft will give 
it to all that love the coming of our Lord 
Jefus. Wherefore, let the Affli&ed Convert 
humble himfelf under one or all thefe Ex- 
ercifes, and not Doubt of his condition, feing 
it is agreeable to the Scripture and lot of the 
Sants. 

5. It is true, that all Affli&ion to the Flefli, 
for the prefent, is a bitter potion, but yet teach* 
ed forth to the Fatient by the Hand of "our 
Fhyfitian and heavenly Father. Itisa fire, but 
Will potconfumetheburningBufli;itis aFurnacc, 
but will not deftroy anf Mettle but Drofs only ; 
it is a Labour,but fliall in due time bring forth 
the quiet Fruits of RighteouCnefs ; it is a rough 
Fyle, but the more Sharp it be it fliall fomuch 
looner rub away the ruftof the Veilel of Grace, 
make the Soul of the Penitent more bright, and, 

by 



BOO KTII. [ 739 ] CHAP. XXVlIf 

by the Blcflingof God, render him more hum- 
ble in his thoughts, more fervent in Prayer, 
more conftant in the faith* more (hong to bear 
fvhatfocver buahen ilial! belaid on him, more 
dcfirous to grow in all Vertue, more careful to 
I*eepCommunion With Godjiv.ore innocent in Iv's 
Conversion, more ciean in hii Conference, arm 
atlaft more Blefled. Let not then the Afflicted 
Convert regard th^ Labour he is put to, but lock 
to the Fruit, reckon the worth of Healing, and 
not thebicternifs of his Potion; let him not 
look to die pain of the AfTlidHon, but to the 
fatherly Love of GodchafUfung him, Whoex- 
preflely hath told us, that He chaftenetU all 
tYhom He loveth,lefttliey perifh with the World* 
let him not fliift the Battel, but fet his Eyes 
on the Crown, and go on in the way of God; 
how many foever his Tribulations llia.ll be : For, 
ds the outward Man by trouble doth decay ,» lo 
the inward Man is renewed daily : For, the 
Apoflle, Who was moft acquaint with fuchExer- 
*;(e, harh for incouragementof all who are uri* 
der the Crofs, faid, Our light Affliction, which is 
lut for a Moment, worketb for us a far more exceeding 
and eternal weight ef Glory, while we look not at the 
things which arefeen, lut at the' things which are 
not Je?u\ for the things which are ]een,a>e temporal, 
lut the thhigs which are mtfeen are tftrnaL z Cor; 
4. 17. i&. 



B O OK II. III.- [ 740 ] CHAP. XXV11I. 



the S evert eeth an d laft Queft ion y flail he about the 
Relics of Sin in the Saints in this Life* 



THe Remainder ofSin doth oftentime$yrivc 
true Converts to many Doubts ; for, 
When carnal Lufts and finful PalTions fcem to 
be (ubc'ued. and in a good mcafure mortified, 
incontinent, upon the lead occafion ( as dying 
.Afbes when fulphureous Pouder is caft upon 
them ) they kindle and are inflamed : And 
when their Spirit is mod willing and ready to 
do good, corrupt Nature ftandeth upandmak- 
eth opposition, fo that the Convert cannot do 
the good he, would; yea, fuch is the power 
thereof, that oft -times it forceth him to the ill 
he would npt. In which warfare, being oft orer# 
come, he is fo weary, that he fallethout, with 
the Apcftic in hisLamentatian, Bom. 7, 24, cry- 
ing, mijerahle Man that I am t who flail deliver 
we from the hod) of this Death } and while he 
fearcheth how it cometh to pafs that fuch a 
body of Death lodgeth in the Children of 
Cod, and fo powerful Relidts of Sin remain in 
thejuftified Man, he cannot fatisfic himfelf,con- 
fidering thatGod doth hate Sin, andmaketh the 
hew Creature hate it alfo ; which God could 
eafily take away in a Moment, in the day of the 
Convert^ Reconciliation and Juitificajion. 



me 

,ai " 



BOOK III. [ 741 ] CH AP. XXVIIL 
1. For anfwcr to this Queftion; if a Reafbn 
of God's pormiflion of the Reliefs of Sin, to re- 
main in the Saints ail the days of theirLife,' be 
asked after; a reafbn Superior to the mod Holy 
Will of God to permit it, can none be given. nor 
ftiould it be fought after.But to quiet our 
in this cafe, thefe following Considerations may 
fuffice, 1, Itis the will of che Lord our God, 
our wife and loving Phyfifciah, to renew and 
rtftore His Image in His Children piece and 
piece, till it be brought to perfe&ion in all the. 
Lineamcnts,Parts and Degrees thereof, and to 
heal our finfulSick nefs and /nfirmitics, net in 
an inflant, but by little and little^s He fceth fit* 
this way of bringing His Work to perfe&ion 
by degrecs,He keeped in the Creation of the 
W r orld, which He did not perfect in a Moment, 
but in fix Days: So alfo, the Seed that is caften 
in theGround every Year.Ke doth not bring forth 
to maturity, for Mens ufe, in Jefle time then 
fbme Months. He dorh not form Thfants in the 
Womb and bring thtm up to their appointed 
ftature and flrer^rhj'n lefle tin.e .than anumber 
©f Years. And for ilieRsjiiis of S\q, hotf odious 
and loathfome foever they are in themfclvW, 
yctHe can, in His deep Wtfiom, make ufe 
thereof in a mod Holy way for the good of 
penitent Converts : For, as it was fitting, that a 
difference fhouid be put between the Militant 
Church on Earth, and the triumphant j in w Hea- 

A a a 2 ?en. 



BOOK III. [ 74* 1 CHAP. XXVITF. 

ven ; So it is the Lords wife Will to exercifc Hi9 
Militant Children, in Confli&ing againft Sin 
and Mifery in this Life^that the next Life and 
Triumph over Sin, Death and Hell, may be 
the iVeecer when it cometh, and more defired 
till it come. 

2. Secondly, as the Lord, after fubduingof 
the Canaanites did not forth with caft them al- 
together out of the holy Land, but fuffereda 
multitude oftjiern to live.for theExercife of the 
Ifraelites with warfare,and for teaching His Peo- 
ple by their own Experience, that the Vi&ory 
which they had obtained over the Canaanitts 
was not purchased by their 5word or Bow, but 
was given unto them from the Lord of Hofts, 
who led forth their Armies andprofpered them: 
So doth He not abolifh the RclidJs of Sin in His 
Saints in tins Life, after their Converfion, that 
they msy know that the Victory which they 
have received,over theDevil.the World and the 
Ficih, in their Converfion, is not to bealcribed 
to the power of their own Free- Will, but unto 
God only. For, if the renewed Convert cannot 
come the Relicts of the broken forces of 
his iSpimual Adverfaries within him, which his 
1, ■■■■->: wed V\ ill would mofl carncftiy Expell, how 
can he g^e the Glory of his Vi<5rory over the 
Devil and the World in his Converfion, unto 
the power of his Corrupt and Unrenewed Free- 
Wiil. 

ttirfy, 



% 
\ 
1 
f 

U 



BOOK HI [ 743 1 CHAP - XXVlil. 

3. Thirdly \x. is required of all char come un- 
to Chrill, that they deny themielvcs. u»ke up 
their Crofs daily and follow Him;and to make 
them fo do,flrong Motives are daily furnifhed 
from the feeling of the Rclidts of Sin in our 
felves: for how can a renewed Convert looku- 
pon his own Ignorance, Errors,Folly and Vanity 
of his Mind, Pervcrfenefs of his Will./mpocency 
to Good, and Propenfion unto all Sin, and not 
loath himfelf, and fo be forced to fly to Chritt 
the Redeemer for Relief I 

4. The remainder of Sin being an Adverfa- 
ry to all Vertues,doth furnifli work to all the 
Habits infufed by God for the daily Exercife 
thereof, according as inborn Sin doth put forth 
it felf to the hinderance of Faith, Love,Hope,Pa- 
tience,Tempcrance,&c. But in fpcciai itlerves 
to bear down Pride and to loflcr Humility. For 
this doth the Experience of the Apoftle fliew, 
x Cor. 1 x.y.Lcfl I jhould be exalted alove me afar e 
through the abundance efthe Revelation, there was 
given to me a Thorn in the ¥le/h. 

5. Nothing doth more manifefl the /hfirmity 
of the ftrongeft Souldicrs of Chrift, than the 
power of inborn Sin,brought forth in thcConfli& 
againft the new Creature : No fharper Spur 
to Prayer and imploring of Gods Help, than 
the felt Power of the remainder of Sin: This al- 
fo doth tho Experience of the Apoftle teach us, 
% Cor. iv 2. for, this thing I befotigbt the Lent 

j thrice 1 that it might depart from we 

6, How 



BO K Tit. [ 744 1 CHAP. XXVlu. 

6. How much the endurance of this Confli& 

with the remainder of Sin, ciorh ferve tomani- 

fcft the greatnefsof the Lord'sPower and large* 

nefs of His Grace towards His weak .Souldi- 

ers, whom He upholdetb and comforteth in this 

ConfluSt* the Anfwer which the Lord givcth 

to die Ape file's Prayer, maketh manifeft, xCor. 

ii. 9. Aod h 1 ef aid unto me, My Grace is fuffici- 

ent for thee ; for My Strength is made perfeft in 

IVeafaefs. 

7. Weare flow to Believe, dull to Apprehend 
2nd learn that which the Word of God tells us 

-of the uglincfs of the Body of Sin, the perverfc 
Wickednefs of corrupt Nature, the Filthinefs of 
the FieOi, the Wiles and D^ceitfutaefs of the 
old Man. and the Emnity of ourCorruptNature 
againil Gc^Thcrcfore, m f and by the frequent 
end renewed ConSidts,no\v with one Lull, then 
with another, we arc forced by Experience to learn 
the LcfTon more and more folidiy, and beiieve 
the Truth of the Lords Word fpeaking of£in 
that is in us, and to engage cur felves to pr% 
fecute the Mortification of Sin unto the Death. 

8. The renewed Experience of the power of 
Sn in our Fklh, fliould make us fo much 
the more vigilant againft it, and daily 
to put on the whole ardour of God : 
Becaufe we mud fight not only with the Fteft, 
but alfo with Principalities, Powers, and 
fpiritualWickedtfefs, which u,ke advantage of 

the 



p o o k m; f 7 4s 3 chap, xxvm 

the Sin that naturally dw$Ueth in us. Epef. 6. 
II, IX. Put en the whole Armour of God, for u>C 
Mettle not with Fief? and Blood, to wit, on I v. 

9. The Confcieiice of the remainder of Sin 
dwelling in us, ferverh to move us to pity, and 
to have companion on the Children of Adam, 
and meekly to reftore our weak Brechrcn> who 
arc overtaken in any ofTcnce, as the ApofUc 
doth teach us, Tit 3. z. Shewing all Meeknejs to 
all Men, For we our [elves alfo were f me time Fool '/ft, 
Difoledient, Deceived, &c. Gal 6. 1. Brethren 
ij a Man he overtaken in a Fault, ye which arefpi- 
ritual re/fore fuch an one in the Spirit ofMeeknefs, 
confide ring thy [elf left thou alfo he tempted. 

10. Lad of all,theperminion of the Rcliques 
of Sin, to remain in true Converts all the days 
of tlu-ir Ijfe.doth ferve to decide the great Con- 
troverfy between God and Men, concerning the 
way ofjuflification : For, bv Nature we cannot 
admit the Riglueoufheft of God, which is by Faith 
in Jeius Chrift, flying to His Satisfaction of Ju- 
flice for us, and Righreeufncfs imputed to us 
thereby: For, by Nature, with mif-beJievirg 
Jfrael.wQ acknowledge no Juflification, (ayes/, 
on for Works, albeit it be impoffrblc, /fan. 10.3. 
And as they heing ignorant of Gods P.ighUchifnejs, 
and going about to e/iahlijh their own Ixighteoajnefs, 
have not fuhmitted themjelves unto tie Rightecnf 
nejs ojGod.So \ve,even after Converficn and after 
embracing of Juflification by Faith, in our Con- 
yet- 



BOOK III. [ 74S 1 CHAP. XXVIIL J B 

{ion do give oft tinus evidence of our natural 
Inclination to feck after the Righteoufnefs of 
Works ; tor after Examination of ourfelvcs, wt 
fhall find that oar confidence doth flow and ebb 
as we are pleated or difplcafed with our own 
carriage;and vhea we have mod need to make 
life oj the Righteoufnefs by Faith in Chrift, we 
forget it or flight it.do not fly to it,do not adhere 
to ic.do not comfort and flrengihenour felves in 
conflicts by it as,(hath oft-times been obferved 
by us) what then would we do, if our going a- 
bo.it to eftablifh our own Righteoufnefs did 
profper? or if the power of in-born Sin did not 
let up it felf againft us,and force us by the Law 
either to difpair or fly to Chrift? And this our 
natural inc!ination,evcn after Convcrfion, to re- 
turn and feck after the Righteoufnefs of the Law, 
may be feenin xXwGalatiausjk ho having begun in 
the fpjritual way of Juftification by Fait!., 
fought to be perfe&ed by the flefhly way of Ju- 
ftification by works, and did fall in dan? 
failing from Grace and excluding t!v 
from the bJeffing of the promife through SJi 

Wherefore, our infinitly wife Phyf-ian Jcfus 
Chrift taketh courfe, as we have laid, for 
His own Glory and our good, not to re- 
pair at onee the Irmgeof God in us, nor to heal 
our ikiiful difeales all at once. But peice and 
peice, by Degrees, that His Righteoufnefs, be- 
llowed on thofe that fly unto Him for Ref^rg^ 
may be in higher and higher Eftimation dai- 
ly 



[ 747 1 CHAP.XXVIU. 
]y,thar the Fountain opened up intern, for remov. 
ir\gofS\n and uncleanncfs nuy daily be made 
ulc of. and the Bcncfircof Juftification may daily 
be looked upon as a New Gift, that vertuc may 
daily be fucked out of him for bcarirg of Good 
ts, and out of His Fulncfs wc may receive 
daily Grace for Grace, and may render thanks 
unto our God daily ,and Bids Htm fot His Grace 
gi\ n unto us, as did thcProphct # P/, 103. V 3. 
Blejs ike Lord, my Seal, who forgive th all thine 
Intatnttes, who heaieth M thy Imfit miti \s ; And 
grow in the Loveol God, for the Rcmiflioii of fo 
many Sins as efcape us daily.as did the Woman 
Luh> 7, 47. who loved much becaufe many Sins were 
forgiven htr. And grow in //olinefs, without 
putting Con6Jence in our Works, as the PfaU 
mift did, Ff 71. iy. 16. My Mouth fkdl fhew 
forth Thy Rightcoujttefs »~lwill go in the (irength of 
the Lord God } and will make mention of thy R/^hte; 
cuf»efs,even oj Thine only. And the Apoftlc givetli 
1 s example. PhiL 389, 12. 13. 14. 

before, let the doubeing Convert make 

.: Confiderations, and. long for tha 

.ag of Chrift, who (hall abolifh Sin and 

Mife r akv pettier. To whom with the Farher 

aad holy Spiri| be Glory for ever, Amen. 






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