such a one as by Valerius Maximus lib. 7. Pythagoras was caâ—â—ed Peafectissimum sapientiae opus and as Socrates Humanae sapientiae quasi terresire oraculum and as the same Socrates by Eunapius 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 A living Image of wisdom Blessed were 1 Kings 10.8 Solomons Servaats behold a greater then Solomon is here an Author of those heavenly instructions by which we learn to lead a heavenly conversation while we are here upon earth we who walk by Scripture Rules are followers not of men but of God we are the Disciples not of Zeno or of Plato but of the person speaking in my Text. But Sixthly Godlinesse hath [1] 1 Tim. 4.8 the promise of this life St. John hath some encouragement then to wish the [2] John 2.3 health and wealth of Gajus his body and estate when the soul of Gajus prospereth The earth is [3] Psal 24.1 the Lords and the fulnesse thereof But what doth He with it Answ The precious things of the earth and the fulnesse thereof he giveth unto [4] Deut. 33.16 Josephs seed even unto the seed of them that delight [5] Psal 112.1 2 3 4 greatly in his Commandements Truth it is a mans life consisteth not in [6] Luke 12.15 Psalm 37.16 the abundance of things which he possesseth Rather feed me with food convenient for me then give me Riches saith [7] Pro. 30.8 Agur. But presupposing a plentiful estate of all conditions the best for a true member of the Church a plentifull estate [8] Psal 84.11 1 Cor. 3.22 he shall have Have it he shall but shall not be bound to it I mean he shall be unto it not a [1] Tit. 3.5 James 4.3 Eccles 4.8 servant but a Master Have it he shall and shall also have a [2] Tit. 2.24 5.18 19 power to use it moderately as if he [3] 1 Cor. 7.31 used it not viz. not [4] Psal 52 7 trusting in it neither [5] Psal 49.6 boasting of it nor [6] Psal 62.10 setting his heart upon it Indeed herein is one signal difference betwixt a man that is and a man that is not a faithful subject of the Kingdome of grace He that is not a subject unto the scepter of this Kingdome of grace is so full of usurpation that like one ill-bred he applyeth himself unto Creature-comforts neither [7] and yet Matth. 7.7 8 Leave is light asking leave nor [8] See 1 Thess 5.18 Quis enim non eâ—ubescat gratiam beae de se merentibus non referre cum videat etiam Tobit 6. 1 Sam. 1.3 bestias refugâ—re crimen ingrati D. Ambros lib. 6. Exam c. 4. rendring thanks whereas a man truly gracious enjoyeth the same the very same creatures and comforts which the wicked person doth but he enjoyeth them with (9) Rom. 8.28 Heb. 13.5 1 Tim. 4.4 better security and in greater [10] Rom. 11.36 1 Cor. 10.31 measure then doth the wicked person For instance The sound Believer hath in him so much good manners that he will not once meddle with the Creature unlesse he first obtain the (11) See ver 27.28 leave and good liking of the blessed Creatour Again he hath the wit to make the most and the â—est of this worlds goods namely while he useth these worldly Comforts not according unto his own shallow imagination but accordingly as the good Word of his God (12) Phil. 4.8 instructeth him Furthermore He is so humbly (13) Gen. 18.27 32.10 thankful that in whatsoever he possesseth he seeketh to observe please and credit not (14) Psal 145.11 115.1 1 Chro. 29.11 Jer. 9.23 24 Matth. 16.24 himself but his Lord and Saviour so much duty so much affection oweth he unto his most bountiful God that whether the (15) Job â— 21 22 Lord giveth or the Lord taketh away still he patiently and most contentedly blesseth the name of the Lord. To wit his care is not to (16) Matth. 6.19 lay up for himself treasures here upon earth but how to (17) 1 Pet. 4.11 1 Tim. 4.5 make the best and the most sanctifies use that he possibly can of every present (18) Heb. 13.5 portion wherewith he is already entrusted Mean while as the more he is entrusted the more he endeavoureth to be (19) 1 Cor. 4.2 Luke 16.10 11 12 found faithful so the more faithful he is found the (20) Mat. 25.23 more he is entrusted whereupon it followeth that wealth and riches shall be (21) Psalm 112.3 in his house It is said Riches and honour (1) Pro. 8.18 are with wisdome and justly for no person is so well able to make the best of either riches or honour as is he who is (2) Pro. 9.10 Tit. 1.15 spiritually wise The same Ark which made (3) 1 Sam. 5.6 the hand of God so heavy upon the men of Ashdod was a (4) 2 Sam. 6.12 blessing unto the house of Obed Edom. That Bishop who is a (5) Heb. 13.17 spiritual Over-feer of soules the greater (6) 1 Sam. 1.15 26 1 Kings 18.13 Lord he is the greater (7) 1 Sam. 1.40 2 Chron. 23 11-21 24.2 Prov. 11.10 good he doth and He is most worthy to be a Magistrate who is as (8) Miâ—aâ— 6.8 holy as powerful If when Solomon petitioneth for Wisdome what Wisdome he seeketh he seeketh wot for his own but (9) 1 Kings 3 8-13 for his Gods sake Solomon shall have wealth at will once let it appear that Joseph refuseth to (10) Gen. 39.9 10 sin against God and whatsover Joseph doth (11) Gen. 23. shall prosper Make Abraham a (12) Rom. 4.11 Father of the faithful and Abraham shall (13) Gen. 23.6 fare like a Prince He and Elisha understood what they did when the one would not (14) Gen. 14.23 accept spoiles from the King of Sodom nor the other a (15) 2 Kings 5.15 26 blessing from Naaman I wisse The Possessor of (16) Gen. 14.22 heaven and earth doth (17) Compare Gen. 15.1 with Psa 23.1 118.9 more for us every minute of the day then all the Princes of Syria and Kings of Sodom can do for us in an age Philosophers conclude that wheresoever there is light there is heat Sure I am wheresoever the Gospel shineth as the Sun there (18) Compare Matth. 21.9 with Psal 118.25 See also Psalm 36.8 31.19 1.3 the earth it self will be the warmer The operations of the soul are (1) Eph. 4.23 requisite for the exercise of grace the health of the body (2) Psal 51.8 is subservient unto the operations of the soul food and raiment (3) Matth. 6.25 1 Tim. 6.8 conduce unto the health of the body no marvail then if (4) Deut. 8.4 Nehem. 9.21 all things pertaining unto life are made subordinate unto the things (5) 2 Pet. 1.3 appertaining unto godlinesse See saith Isaac (6) Gen. 27.27 28 The smell
of my Son is as the smell of a field which the Lord hath blessed Therefore God give thee of the dew of heaven and the fatnesse of the earth and plenty of corn and wine Why all this Answ Jacob have (7) Mal. 1.2 Rom. 9.13 I thosen Religious persons like perfumed garments carry with them a (8) Gen. 26.28 39.23 1 Sam. 18.5 Psalm 1.3 Jer. 17.8 blessing whithersoever they go Pharaoh Abimelech Laban Saul c. shall speed the better for their acquaintance with Joseph Isaac Jacob David c. It is not in vain that where the Prophets foretel Gospel-times there (9) Joel 2 23-28 Zech. 9.9 17 Esay 66.12 65 20-25 62 1-5 60.14 61.6 11 Revel 21.24 they promise temporal blessings The (10) hos 2.22.21 corn and the wine and the oyle shall hear Jezreel And the earth shall hear the corn and the wine and the oyle And the heavens shall hear the earth and I will hear the heavens saith the Lord But how shall Jezreel be assured of all this Answ I will (11) hos 2.20 even betroth thee unto me in faithfulnesse and thou shalt know the Lord. May Elijah prevaile with Ahab to cry down Baal he will soon prevail (12) 1 Kings 18 19-45 with God to pour down Rain Bring ye all your tithes and prove me now herewith saith the (13) Mal. 3.10 Lord of Hosts if I will not open for you the windowes of Heaven and empty out a blessing until I fill your Barns so full that you shall want room Wrest and misapply the Scriptures never so much yet from the Scritures (14) Mat. 5.5 Mark 10.30 1 Tim. 4.8 6.17 Psalm 144.15 122.5 7 128.5 125.4 35.27 1.3 119.165 81.16.147.14 148.14 36.7 8 Esay 60.6 7 9 10 11 12 13 16 17 18 61.4 5 6 62.7 8 9 65 20-25 66.10 11 12 clear it is that worldly riches are ordained not as a snare but as a promised blessing and that wheresoever Jesus Christ reigneth in the Gospel there he leadeth people from barbarism unto civility from civility to peace and from peace to the fruits of peace plenty The holy Spirit teacheth man to (15) Jam. 3.18 Hos 10.12 sow the fruits of righteousnesse the good Spirit to (16) Esay 28.24 29 Prov. 8.12 Exod. 31.3 6 cast abroad the sitches the cummin and principal wheat We mis-employ the encrease of the earth if we (17) Luke 16.9 12 Gal. 6.6 1 Tim. 6.18 19. spend it not upon the kingdome of heaven and the glory of this World [18] 1 Cor. 7.31 Esay 40.8 passeth away unlesse it may adorn the glory of the Gospel True where the Gospel is but yet in [19] Acts 14.22 planting or under [20] 2 Tim. 3.12 James 4.4 persecution or the like there if in this life only we have hope in Christ we are of [21] 1 Cor. 15.19 all men most miserable but I shall ever crave leave to think that where the Gospel flourisheth there the meek shall be sure to [22] Mat. 5.5 inherite the earth to be [23] Psa 149.4 beautified with salvation and to [24] Psa 22.26 eat and be satisfied The reason why I so think is this The meek on earth will [25] Zeph. 2.3 seek the Lord and the Lord will guide them [26] Psal 25.9 Esay 29.19 in judgement yea their meek and quiet Spirit is [27] 1 Pet. 3.4 in the sight of God of great price Hence The children of Israel never better bestowed their wealth then when they brought of it [1] Exod. 25.2 35.5 36 3 5 6 1 Chron. 29 2-13 willing Offerings for the service of the work of the Lord in his Sanctuary yea the followers of Christ even then when Jesus Christ was dead and buried would [2] Luke 8.3 John 8.40 Mark 16.1 2 3 See Learned Bishop Andrews his third Serm. on the Resurrection have ministred unto him of their substance And reason good for since the [3] Psal 24.1 earth is the Lords just it is that we [4] 1 Chro. 29.14 16 should give unto him of his own But this know God will not be behindhand with us in any [5] 2 Cor. 9.12 1 Cor. 15.58 Rom. 11.35 Hos 12.2 expressions of loving kindnesses whatsoever Though David did no more then [6] 2 Sam. 7.2 design to build a house for the Lord in requital the Lord built for David a [7] 2 Sam. 7. 11. sure House so far he is from desisting to [8] 1 Sam. 2.30 honour them who heartily [9] Prov. 3.9 honour him with their substance Christian remember thou that Temple of the Lord and forget the [10] Mat. 6.29 glory of Solomon if thou canst Recollect how zealous that Emperour Constantine [11] Enseb in vit Constantin was and then tell me whether he were not very deservedly stiled Constantine the [12] viz. The more good the more great Therefore 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 saith to the Prince of Wales I had rather you should be Charles le Bon then Charles le Grand cap. 27. GREAT Yea whosoever sincerely loveth the peace of Jerusalem [13] Psalm 122.6 prospereth and if I once discern a person unfeignedly seeking the kingdome of heaven and the righteousnesse thereof then am I sure [14] Mat. 5.33 all other things shall be added unto him For although the [15] Pro. 3.18 Tree of life is like [16] 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ibid. other Trees best planted in winter although the children of the [17] Mat. 5.45 kingdome are like the gold of the Temple best purified [18] Mal. 3.3 by fire yet the peace of the Gospel most flourisheth [19] 1 Kings 10.7 Psalm 45.4 21.5 31.9 Eccles 7.14 Jerem. 33.9 Job 8.6 Zech. 1.17 7.7 8.12 13 in the midst of prosperity and where the purity of the Gospel aboundeth it aboundeth in the fulnesse as well of earthly [20] 1 Tim. 4.8 Phil. 4.19 2 Cor. 9.8 Esay 32.18 as of heavenly mercies I lay the foundations of the earth saith the Lord and I therefore lay them that I may say [21] 1 Tim. 51.16 unto Zion Thou art my people Are we Jesus Christ's If so all things are [22] 1 Cor. 3.22 ours to the prayse of our God be it spoken all things are ours Thus much of the sixth Revenue of the holy Catholick Church namely that secular happinesse which like the heat at noon-day accompanieth the light of the Gospel a matter worthy out perpetual thanksgiving unto him whom we gladly desire ever to glorifie as God The Seventh is a fellowship (1) Phil. 3.10 with Christs sufferings When in one and the same day message upon message brought several tidings of several Victories at once unto Philip King of Macedon Philip brake forth (2) 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Plutarch Apotheg O Fortune among such and so great good tidings bestow upon me some ill newes Beloved although the World is not aware
Labourers some will wax idle The Temple at Jerusalem could never be so exactly repaired but that some part of it or other would ever be amiss Nor is Holiness inherent to the Levite One (2) Num. 25.11 Phinehas is seldom so good but (3) Sam. 4.4.2.17 22. another is as bad At this very time wherein Jesus now spake as he had v. 22. his Judas Thaddeus so he had c 13.26 his Judas (4) John 6.70 Iscariot too 2. A second Stone is removed by the manner whereafter the order wherein Obser from the the manner order and matter of the words the matter whereof the Wisdom of the Father doth here speak 1. As I told you what is here uttered is delivered feelingly and pathetically What proceedeth from Him proceedeth as well from the flowings of his love as from the openings of his lips 2. The Order of the words maketh things temporal an occasion unto things spiritual leadeth from Nature to Grace from reason in the heart to Faith in Christ from troubles in the world to Mansions in Heaven bringeth us from outward troubles to inward duties from inward duties to the recompence of the reward guideth us through a world of troubles into a kingdom of Grace from a kingdom of Grace unto a Crown of Glory 3. The Matter here spoken of is not some barren needless Punctilium but matter worthy him that preacheth viz. the great concernments of the soul the property and efficacy of faith the means and certainty of Salvation Which three circumstances twisted into one example fully separate between the profitable and unprofitable Teacher For while on the left hand they explode that sleight of Oratory which rejecteth Christs but admireth (1) Stultissimum credo ad imitandum non optima quae que proponere Piin. lib. 1. Epist 5. mans wisdom on the right they approve that wholesome method which imitateth not man Invention but Christs pattern viz. On the right hand this commendeth that great part of our English Clergy which are indeed Stewards of the Mysteries of God Stewards as faithful as able Lights as well burning as shining meek lowly gentle patient of a dove-like innocency and of a willing compliance yet valiant for the Truth zealous of good works bold to preach the Gospel (1) 1 Thes 2.2 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and very zealous for their Lord of Hosts In these the Word dwelleth richly and in all wisdom too especially in that (2) Prov. 11.30 choice Wisdom which winneth souls These (3) Prov. 15.2 use their knowledge aright exceeding learned they are and are because they are exceeding learned mighty in the Scriptures When these speak they so speak as the Oracles of their God when these minister they so minister as of the ability which God giveth Beloved by the Word thus preached what people upon earth is exalted so near heaven as our Island is What Nation under heaven can muster up so many Watchmen which cry aloud and spare not so many Chariots and Horsemen of Israel which fight the Lords battles as England can Blessed yea blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for (4) O si videam in vita mea ecclesiam talibus nixam columnis O si Domini sponsam cernerem tantae commissam fiâ—â—â— tantae câ—e litam puritatiâ— quid me beatius quid ve securius Bernard lib. 1. ad Eugenium his unspeakable Mercy herein unto this whole Kingdom yea and accursed be he that shall once attempt to roll away these tried stones A (5) Josh 8 32. Copy of the Law is written upon these stones These we erect as a (6) Josh 4.7 Memorial before the Lord for ever Behold These shall (7) Josh 24.27 witness unto us lest we deny the Lord. On the other hand For Zions sake I will not hold my peace Alas I cannot chuse but stumble at too many even of our English Divines who make it their utmost endeavour to preach learnedly indeed but not unto Edification Should (1) Job 15 2 3. a wise man utter vain knowledge Should he reason with unprofitable Talk or with speech that can do no good Away then with that manner of preaching which contriveth more to repeat Authours or to boast languages then to edifie souls The Son of God abhorred Affectation of Literature yet spake (2) Mat. 7.29 John 7.15 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 He could have spoken with tongues more then us all yet never did he make himself a (3) 1 Cor. 14.11 19. Barbarian He sought not to amuse but to awaken Away also with that sort of preaching which (4) Id habent curae non quomodo Scripturarum medullas ebibant sed quomodo aures populi Declamatorum flosculis mulceant S. Hieron aimeth more to imitate an Oration of Tully then a Narration of Christs Away away with these quaint modish Discourses they have in them neither (5) John 6.63 spirit nor life Sermons yield but (6) 1 Cor. 13.1 harsh Musique to the ear if they afford neither method for the memorie nor matter for the thirsty soul nor do they ever make less impression upon the heart then when they are delivered (7) 1 Cor. 2 1. Conciones sacrae esse debent nec delicatae nec cincinnatae Zanch. Orat. most in print your starched pieces never yet sat close upon the Hearer Alas what is if this be not Verba dare (8) Hos 8 â— 12.1 to feed Ephraim with wind I verily presume that a meer Puny shall do more good by speaking one word (9) Isa 50.4 in due season then shall the tongue of the learned when at any time it disdaineth the Things which become sound doctrine All Scripture is (10) 2 Tim. 3.16 profitable for Doctrine for Reproof for Correction c. but there is a new found Rhetorique now adaies which stoopeth not so low as these It is now the great Industry of many excellent Schollars to wave the Demonstration of the Spirit and to place their whole stress upon mans wisdom I speak this to (11) Imperitissimâ— est scientia scire quid sensâ—rint Philosophi nescire quid docuit Chrisius August Epist 56. their shame But tell me whosoever ye are hath God bestowed upon you your rich Talents for no higher (1) See Deut. 10.20 21.12.32.27 9 10.28.47 58. 1 Sam. 2.30 1 King 18.36 Psal 40.10 Mal. 2.5 6. services Or is this Prudence to exalt Rhetorick your hand-maid above (2) 1 Cor. 2.5 Divinity her Mistress yea Is it good manners in you to prefer your Mother-wit before the sacred wisdom of God Do ye thus shew your breeding Ye never learned this from either of our famous Vniversities Nay Luke 6.46 Is it common (3) 1 Sam. 2.29 John 6.38 7.18.12 43. 1 Cor. 2.4 Gal. 1.10 1 Tim. 1.11 Honesty in you to conceal your Gods praises and to bespeak your own Unto you who (1) Joh. 5.42 had rather be reputed learned
ever was is 1 and will be his own we betray our trust if by us God be not glorified Let prophane wretches know that the next time that the Lord prepareth another world for them they shall seek magnifie and love not It but Him O ye fools when will ye understand If the Vessel be pleasant for use for shame (1) Si alia nulla nobis esset merces illud tamen vel maximè nobis ad gloriam valeret si divinis in laudibus versari aon indigni haberemur siquidem qui principum laudes eloquuniur vel hoc uno si nihil reliquae esset mercedis quod Principem magni faciunt satis videntur ornamenti assequuâ—i Idem è Chrysost take cognizance of the Potter if the building be so wonderful to the eye look up unto the great Master-builder You who mind earthly things God hath sent every atom within this vast Universe to invite you unto himself Friend Hast thou no glory to attribute unto him who made both thee and what thing soever thou thy self desirest create one worm one grain one hair one grasse one dust nay create the very paring of thy nails or the very dropping of thy nostrils if thou canst Look on all else which thou possessest Tell me now those works of God which thine eyes behold are none of them worth (2) Psalm 28.7 a song Span the Heavens measure the earth number the variety of works in either and is it possible that you can despise the contriver of all these Rarities Have you so excellent a prospective and as yet do ye not discern him who layed the Foundations of the earth Must it be that of all which is everywhere before thine eyes not any one creature can hitherto (3) Quid scribam nisi ut te exhorter ed bonam mentem Hujus fundamentum quid sit quaeris Ne gaud as vanis Fundamentum hoc esse dâ—x etiam culmen est Ad summam pervenit qui scit quo gaudct Sen. l. 3. ep 13. ad Lucil. win thee over unto the Father of all things Are the marvailous works of Him whose Name is Wonderfull so much below your notice above your apprehension they are shall they be below your notice too God saw that whatsoever he made was very good seest thou not how that God is in Himself infinitely more good Hear O Heavens give ear O earth the Lord he (4) Jer. 23.24 Acts 17.27 filleth both Heaven and Earth but the Sons of Adam will not know it They do know it but will not Of all the creatures Lord in sea and land (1) Mr. George Herbert in his Poem entituled Providence viz. his Church mihi p. 109. Only to man thou hast made known thy wayes And put the pen alone into his hand And made him Secretary of thy praise Beasts fain would sing birds ditty to their notes Trees would be tuning on their native Lute To thy renown but all their hands and throats Are brought to Man while they are lame mute Man is the worlds high Priest he should present The sacrifice for all while They below Vnto the service mutter an assent Such as springs use that fall and winds that blow He that to praise and laud thee doth refrain Doth not refrain unto himself alone But robs a thousand who would praise thee fain And doth commit a world of sin in one God is [1] Esay 28.29 excellent in working but as the Apostle [2] 1 Cor. 9.6 pleadeth for himself hath he not a power to forbear working Verily he hath Yet loe he made he preserveth he governeth the curious wheels of the worlds most [3] 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Arist. de Caelo lib. 2. cap. 14. exquisite Fabrique For this end he maketh preserveth ruleth it that his Name may be glorified glorified not by things which cannot reflect upon his Excellencies but by us reasonable creatures The [3] Criminibus debent hortos praetoria mensas spacious Gardens and Orchards the sumptuous Structures and Buildings the superfluous Plate and Furniture the expensive Retinue and Apparel of Rich men are commonly more for pomp then for use Forsooth the owners fancie while you gaze upon their wealth ye will admire [4] 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Arist their persons Ye know how much the Ambassadors had dis-obliged King Hezekiah had they refused to view his Treasures and yet Hezekiah provided not these Treasures for those Ambassadors sakes Now what is ostentation in foolish man in God is not vain but solid glory To be at the [5] Luke 14.24 Matth. 22.4 Hos 2.8 charge of a Banquet and the treatment not at all resented to make a costly preparation for the welcome of a friend and for that friend when come to overlook all as altogether inconsiderable Such neglects were as uncivil as ungrateful as absurd as uncivil How much more if these neglects proceed not from a superiour but from an equal not from some of our equals but from some inferiour servant yea from some beggarly malefactor Beloved the case is the same infinitely the same and more [6] Omnia omnibus clament se Deum habere conditorem cui parere quem extollere est ordo totius universi Augustin between us and our God Mans heart is [1] 1 Cor. 3.19 foolish at the best but such as [2] Eph. 4 18 affect ignorance shall have even their foolish heart [3] Rom. 1.21 darkned their imaginations shall become vain and their affections vile knowledge is [4] Pro. 14.6 easie unto him that understandeeth therefore most equal it is that [5] Matth. 14.12 25.29 Mark 4.25 Luke 8.18 from him that hath no mind to know God as God is revealed in his Works should be taken away that little benefit of the Scripture which he might have So nearly are we concerned in [6] Acts 17.24 27 all which is before us that [7] Epb. 2.12 whoso live without God in the world do for their part annihilate the whole Creation at once nay what is worse they do render [9] Tit. 1.15 heaven and earth hurtful unto themselves and themselves [10] Rom. 14.23 offensive unto their Preserver By God men live and [11] Acts 17.28 live in the world yet so [12] Esay 1.13 great is their stupidity they live in the world without God! The world which should [13] Rom. 2.4 Acts 17.30 lead us toward him draweth such from him It should be our conduct they make it their [14] Hos 2.12 Rom. 1.23 seducement it should be our Remembrancer they make it their Detainer Through a childish mis-usage [15] Jer. 8.7 the same Spectacles which should help their eyes hinder their sight By the things which are made is [16] Rom. 1.20 clearly seen the eternal power of the Godhead clearly seen it may be but is not looked after nay some there are who [17] Jer. 8.5 9.6 wilfully look from it I
of a small burden anchoreth a Netherlander pretendeth the death of a Merchant in that Vessel beseecheth the thirty Frenchmen that the dead body of their Merchant might be buried in hallowed ground namely in Sark-Chappel unto a Request so charitable the secure Frenchmen yield The Flemings bring into the Isle a Coffin filled not with a dead body but with murdering Harquebusses then entring the Chappel they shut the door upon themselves take their Weapons from out of the Coffin slay every Frenchman in Sark and immediately possesse themselves of the whole Island Many many a covetous Tradesman receiveth just such [2] Prov. 1.19 5.22.11.1.22.23.23.4.13.11 Exck. 7.13 a Coffin into his shop from out of a gracelesse good will unto himself he welcometh false measures false weights false wares false accompts with all the security that may be But note the event Wherewith this Shop-keeper deceiveth his Customers therewith [3] Acts 5.3 the Devil [4] 1 Tim. 3.6 7 surprizeth this Shop-keeper taketh [5] 2 Tim. 2.26 possession of his captived heart and [6] 1 Pet. 5.8 slayeth his deluded soul Alas ill fareth the owner whose shop is the Devils [7] Pro. 1.32 ware-house When once the Prince of darknesse playeth at Sark a Soul may soon [8] Eph. 5.5 acquit her self of the Mansions in my Fathers House Every unjust gain [9] Luk. 12.21 1 Tim. 6.9 Prov. 28.20 Jer. 7.19 selleth heart and body body and soul grace and Glory Heaven and the God of Heaven for a messe of the Supplanters pottage When it is too late you will then be able to resolve your selves who findeth least trouble of heart the [10] Prov. 15 16 16.8 poor man that is righteous or the rich man [11] Psalm 4.3 that is fraudulent And yet mercy God! What do most of our Markets and Faires signifie other then [12] 1 Thes 4.6 Hos 4.2 lying and cheating Ah how is the Prince of this world pleased to see many who vote themselves [13] Tit. 1.16 Christians as very lyars as [14] John 8.44 himself Judas is not the [15] Heb. 13.5 2 Pet. 2.3 only Disciple who selleth Jesus Christ for a piece of money But had Judas peace who sold his Master neither shall ye Full well are divers Faires among us kept upon Holy-dayes for pray all we can you that turn and wind moneys will hardly keep [16] James 1.27 Esay 8.13 65.16 your selves unspotted of the world your covetous practises witnesse to your face that ye doom [17] Amos 9.10 Prov. 12.3 your hearts to trouble Alas alas how can ye lay claim to the [18] John 14.1 2 5.44 Mansions in my Fathers House so long as ye distrust God and his Christ Beloved rather make the fear [19] Prov. 8.1 3 of your God your wisdom esteem the Spirit of Jesus Christ your [20] Luke 16.11 only Riches set a high value [21] 1 Pet. 1.4 upon the Mansions in my Fathers House then [22] Acts 24.16 shall you be at peace with your own consciences then shall you find that Godlinesse hath the [23] 1 Tim. 4.8 promise of this life then shall this Gospel [24] Esay 26.3 say unto you Let not your heart be troubled Fifthly This Let not condemneth every Soul Of all Christistians which at any time [1] Rom. 8.1 2 Cor. 1.12 omitteth any Duty every person who in performing any Duty maketh not [2] Psalm 52.7 his God his Rest every Christian which [3) Esay 50.10 rolleth not But as easily may I cramb all Homers Iliads into a nut shell as [4] Eccl. 1.8 repeat all the troubles of a neglected heart in one breath Yea as soon may I force a Camels [5] Mat. 19.24 back through the eye of a Needle as remove [6] Gal 6.1 offences meerly by finding fault The end of rebuke is [7] 2 Tim. 4.2 Ezek. 3.26 to correct I passe therefore from these [8] Joh. 14.1 troubles of heart unto a faith in the living God I proceed from what our Saviour here prohibiteth unto what he next enjoyneth Dearly beloved you will now at the last escape reproofs if [9] Pro. 10.17 15.31.12.1 without further troubles of heart you receive instruction I told you Matter of instruction from the (1) Page 2. beginning that this seasonable Precept Believe in God believe also in me was cloathed with Evangelical instructions It is so Take the words 2 absolutely and they are our instruction they teach us that believe in God believe in Christ we must but consider them as opposed against the distractions of the Disciples hearts you will then learn that This (2) 1 Joh. 5.4 is the victory which overcometh all our troubles even our faith How great a comfort faith is against the greatest troubles of mind will appear from the (1) See page 6 various occasions of this Text. Occasion One was (1) Luke 22.24 ambition disappointed The hearts of these Disciples hab been troubled with worldly interests They had (2) Luke 24.21 Acts 1.6 dreamed hitherto of glorious preferments upon earth they had been (3) Luke 22.24 striving which of them should sit nearest unto their enthroned Lord I say these Disciples although they (4) Mat. 16.16 John 6.69 knew Jesus as the Son of God yet not [5] Mat. 20.9 knowing the Scriptures they aimed at worldly greatnesse they as yet fancied that (6) Matth. 20.21 Mark 9.34 Acts 1.6 Surely Christ would in good time reign gloriously upon earth To follow this to them [7] Mat. 2.2 known to others [8] Mat. 27.11 unknown King of the Jews they had (9) Mark 10.28 30 forsaken all and in so doing they had (10) Mat. 20.21 Luke 22.29 promised unto themselves no small advancement Now when they (11) John 13.31 learn that God would straightway glorifie their long attended Master not with Thrones but with Thornes not with a royal Diadem but by 12 sufferings when they in stead of seeing Christ restore the Kingdom unto Israel hear him (12) Mat. 16.21 John 13.1.33 14.2 contriving his departure out of this world when instead of being exalted by their Lord they must by him be (13) Mat. 13.36 37 shortly left at a losse this was unto them a consternation of spirit the failing of this their long expectation made their (14) Pro. 13.12 heart sick this this was one reason why our Saviour mindeth them to their comfort ye believe in God Secondly Whereas these were they which Occasion of all men had (1) Luke 22.28 continued with Christ in his Temptations Christ now twitteth them how of them one should (2) John 13.21 betray him another should (3) John 13.38 deny him all should (4) Mat. 36.31 forsake him These were (5) Mar. 8.38 Rev. 21.8 hard sayings Their meek Master had deserved no such uncomely neglects from them And now long at last
paratam lo â—è toculentissimam ampâ—â—ssimam bonis omnibâ—â—â— instraâ—ctissimam Jac. Capellus Ostendit hoc nomine Apostolos Deo fiâ—ere debere quod in domo Patris sui variae sint paratae mansiones A transsugis sumpta Metaphora quibus magno solatio èst habere varia Asyla ad consugièndu quae promittit Christus sive praesentem vitam spectes sive futuram Zegerius moment if compared unto the 3 Mansions in my Fathers House Fifthly Imagine these afflictions I which for the present seen so grievous were worthy to be compared unto the Joyes that are set before us yet [1] Deur 4.29 believe in God God is [2] Psal 47.7 King of all the earth Again I say believe in God Faithfull are the [3] Prov. 27.6 3.11 Job 5.17 Heb. 12.6 Revel 3.19 wounds of a Friend I know O Lord that thy Judgements are true and that thou in 4 very faithfulnesse hast afflicted me Sixthly Believe also in Christ In Him thou mayest find peace He [1] John 14.29 foretelleth thee that he hath [2] John 16.33 overcome the world for thee He hath [3] John 13.15 given thee an Example of [4] Luke 21.29 possessing thy Soul in patience His peace he [5] John 14.27 giveth unto thee and what he giveth that he [6] ibid. leaveth with thee He putteth that into thine eye which will make thee see the better soweth that in thy [7] Psalm 126.5 Heb. 12.11 tears which will bring forth fruit to thine accompt even the peaceable fruits of Righteousnesse Once Jesus Christ doth in thy sufferings give thee the [8] Phil. 1.29.3.10 2 Cor. 4.11 Credit the Reputation the honour of having a fellowship in his sufferings A second Life of Comfort here is Against the death of our Friends namely [1] Videbat eos commotos antecedentibus de suâ morte Sermonibus it áque eos erigit Grotius in John 14.1 against the [2] 2 Sam. 1.26 18.33 John 11.3.33 Phil. 2.27 Death of our Friends Thou who art a follower of God art thou troubled on every side So were these Disciples Art thou disappointed of worldly hopes So were these Disciples Is some dear Friend deceased Loe these Disciples were [3] John 13.33 16.6 fain to part with their dearest Jesus What it was to be bereaved of so good a Master you have [4] viz. p. 235. already seen but This was not all When Jesus had escaped death was [5] Luke 24.21 beyond all hopes raised from the Grave was beyond all hopes restored unto them again for his Disciples then again to lose Him to lose Him whom [6] Cant. 3.4 their Soul had found Him who [7] Revel 1.18 was dead and is alive and behold he liveth for evermore This this is much very much One would think if at Christ his death his Disciples hearts were troubled they would have been at his [8] Acts 1.6,11 ascension troubled much more Did I not say unto my Lord [9] 2 Kings 4.28 Do not deceive me If when Christ dyed all their hopes [10] Luke 24.21 dyed with him then much more when he arose their hopes [11] Luke 33.34 Acts 1.11 revived also Consider now For Jesus after that he had overcome death to depart from his Disciples again to depart from them now no more by a necessity of death but during health and life to ascend from them [12] Luke 24.9 just then when they [13] Luke 24.6 expected the issue of his [14] Matth. 21.7 8 riding in triumph of his [15] Matth. v. 9 15 accumulated Hosanna's of his declaring and owning of himself to be the [16] Matth. 2.2 27.11 King of the Jewes the long expected [17] Matth. 21.15 Luke 2.11 Son of David yea the [18] Matth. 3.17 17.5 Rom. 1.4 Son the only Son of the great and only God Loe ye here a tryal yet see when this dear this potent friend thus unexpectedly ascended I say when the most loving Jesus most unexpectedly departed his Disciples which had formerly drooped were now so far from being at all troubled that they were [19] Luke 24.52 filled with great joy Consider consider my Beloved When the God of all flesh taketh away from us our best our nearest friends he can and if we trust in him he will leave a greater comfort [20] John 14.16 16.17 behind them This for the death of others Against our fear of death Is now thlne own death thy [1] 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Arist terrour I say is the darknesse of the shadow of death thy discomfort Fear thou [2] Psal 23.4 none evil He who hath [3] Joh. 16.8.5.4 taught thee to live will [4] Phil. 4.13 help thee to dye Women bring forth in sorrow but it is to their comfort for their repeated pains in Child-bearing [5] 1 Tim. 2.15 teach that fearful Sex how to overlook a lesser pain namely that of death As when the Moon so when the soul is in the change she is then nearest unto the [6] Psalm 84.11 Sun When Christ came from Bozrah his dyed [7] Esay 63.1 Garments drew the [8] 1 Cor. 15.56 Fiducia Christianorum resurrectio mortuorum Tertul. de carnis resur sting out of Death and as of the flesh of Adders are made Antidotes against poyson so of that sting is now made a Cordial for the deceasing Party The Grave seemeth to [9] Prov. 30.16 Rom. 3.13 gape like the red Sea mean while it maketh way for our more speedy coming unto the promised Rest Christ was placed within the Grave that we [10] 2 Cor. 4.10 Col. 3.4 See Bishop Reynolds his Churches Triumph over Death might step over it with ease The Believer now a dying is onely passing from death to life nay more from the death of sin unto him who is [11] John 14.6 1 John 3.2 Col. 3.3 4 The Life The Earth provideth a Rest for our Bodies the Heavens contain a Rest so our souls but Jesus Christ will be a Rest unto them both True Death [12] Rom. 5.12 passed upon all these Disciples This [13] John 21 19 spake Christ signifying by what death he should glorifie God viz. Peter was to put off his earthly Tabernacle [14] 2 Pet. 1.14 shortly As for St. James he was [15] Acts 12.2 killed with the Sword Great very great [16] Gal. 2.9 Matth. 19.28 were these Apostles but notwithstanding their greatnesse as (17) Psal 82.7 Princes so THEY must dye like men A Believers Comfort is [18] Job 30.23 not that he shall not dye but that he shall not dye the everlasting death of common men Of the beloved Disciple himself the Lord Jesus never said [19] John 21.23 he shall not dye but Unto him he said [20] John 14.2 In my Fathers House are many Mansions The least child of God can now [21] Revel 1.18 fetch a stride
of good affections most equal it is that whatsoever he leaveth with us should be [2] 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Clem. Alex. Strom. l. 7. not at our but at his sole pleasure and command Thirdly God hath vouchsafed unto us the blessings of the earth and of the heavens the precious truths of his Word the rich graces of his Spirit and those unsearchable Treasures given unto us his only Son upon [1] Qui esse vult fibi non tibi O Deus incipit nihil esse intâ—r omnia Ber. in Cant. Serm. 20. no other terms but that in them and for them his Name should be by us glorified Fourthly What wise man ever built a house for [1] True the Tree which cumbreth the ground shall be burnt but the Lord diggeth c. about it that it may bring forth fruit Luke 13.8 9. no purpose at all Who planteth a Vineyard and eateth not of the fruit Who feedeth a flock and drinketh not of the milk If God be a Lord where is his fear If a Father where is his honour c. Lastly Let a Souldier do what becometh a Souldier and let a Soveraign do as beseemeth the Majesty of a Prince When upon Darius his large offers Parmenio had said Surely I would accept these offers were I as Alexander said Alexander (1) Plut. Apothegm so would I were I as Parmenio Beloved as God wayes are not the same with our wayes so neither are his thoughts as our thoughts It (2) When Harpalus would have had his Kinsmans evil words escape unpunished No said Philip for 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Plutarch ibid. consisteth neither with the justice nor with the wisdom nor with any other attribute of God to dispense with the glory ever due unto his Name Take the whole at once Should the infinite God cease to see himself glorified he would un-God himself Think upon it Sinners Ought Jehovah to be glorified as he is absolutely a God as he is relatively a Lord and dare any of you continue a Vessel of dishonour Be ye not as things without life but as living Creatures be not as bruits but as creatures reasonable and well affected Be not as they unto whom no Gospel is preached but as Gospel-professors O let not the Gospel of Jesus Christ be hid unto you but let it be unto you the ministration of the Spirit The Lord hath made his only Son a powerful (1) Istam gratiam non habuit homo primus quâ vellet nuaquaÌ„ esse malus sed saae habuit in quâ si permanere vellet nunquam malus esset Sed deseruit desertus Haec prima est gratia quae data est primo Adam Sed haec potentior est in secundo Adam Prima fit ut habe at Homo justitiam si velit Secunda fit criam ut velit tantum velit tantóque ardore diligat ut carnis voluntatem contraria concupiscentem voluntate spiritus vincat Aug. de corrept grat cap. 11. 12. Mediatour he hath shed forth the Spirit of his Son he hath prepared Ordinances to conveigh hath given both an understanding to seek and affections to yern after this Spirit of his Son and after all these mercies are even forced upon you are you as barren and as unfruitful as ever Be not O be not the thwarting the cross-grain'd matter of Gods severe glory but be the pliant instruments of his deserved honour not only be but seek his praise Object What if we are already predestinated to be Vessels of dishonour Then Answ 1. If you come too near (1) Deu. 29.29 unto the inaccessible Light I say if you stare the Sun in the face ye do but dazzle your eys Be (2) Nunquam verecundiores esse debemus quam cum de Deo agitur Seneca nat quest l. 7. sober Answ 2. Were you assured that you are Vessels fitted for destruction this assurance would but (1) Mat. 6.34 John 14.1 torment you before the time Answ 3. Suppose you are (1) See of this Treatise pages 76 77 78 79 80. unavoidably the Vessels of dishonour yet make the best of a forlorn estate dishonour neglect provoke (2) Quis coram Deo innocens invenitur qui vult fieri quod vetatur si subtrahas quod timetur the just Judge as little as you can saved or not saved your Duty is to obey Answ 4. Should all endeavours fail you can but perish Answ 5. If you will pluck eternal destruction upon your soules and bodies thank your selves As for the most merciful Father of our Lord Jesus Christ his Gospel is brought home unto you He proclaimeth a (1) Dignaris eis quibus omnia debita dimittis etiam promissionibus tuis debitorem fieri Aug. Conf. l. 5 pardon and that general pardon is now particularly tendered unto you I say unto you Answ 6. Although your day be (1) Matth. 20.9 Luke 23.43 already far spent if the Lord will you may redeem the time God assisting you may run and so run that you may (2) Cesset voluntas propria non erit insernus Bernard obtain Answ 7. Obtain or obtain not forasmuch as the long-suffering God hath prolonged his patience toward you Do not any longer abuse his patience dishonour him (1) Consiâ—ium futuri ex praeterito venit Seneca Epist 83. henceforward as little as (2) Fructuarius nihil facere debet in perniciem proprietatis l. 13. sect 4. F. de usu fructu you can nay henceforward glorifie him as much as you can Answ 8. One way of glorifying your God is to (1] Au laciam existimo de bono divini praecepti disputare Tertul de poenit cap. 4. Prior est authoritas imperantis quam utilitas servientis Idem leave him unto the preheminence of his secret counsel Servants may not pry into their Masters mind nor Children into their Fathers will nor Subjects into the unsearchble hearts of Princes It is your wisdome to submit trust and obey Answ 9. His you are unto whom you obey if you harden your hearts ye do the work of a Reprobate (1) That is of a Devil see 1 John 3.8 for Alterius esse non possunt nisi Diaboli quae Dei non sunt Tert. de Idol cap. 18. if you seek to glorifie your God you take a course to (2) Phil. 2.12 work out your salvation nay to make your calling and election sure (3) 2 Pet. 1.10 Answ 10. Many that have sought to work out their salvation God hath rejected For why They sought themselves not their Ruler but unto him who unfeignedly sought to glorifie his God as God God never yet denied his Spirit of Regeneration This is a Gospel-truth God who (1) Modo mirabili ineffabili agens Aug. de praedest sanct cap. 20. doth sometimes most freely give of his Spirit unto such as once despised grace will never (2) Patrem miserico diarum esse
Believer hath he hath the honour if I may so speak to (8) Psalm 145.1 30.1.66.17 Esay 25.1 Compare 2 Sam. 12.28 with Jerem. 9.23 24 extol that Throne which is the Lords to hand the Scepter of Gods Kingdom unto Gods right Hand and to lift a Crown of pure gold unto the Royal Head of this King of glory Then we extol God when we in our hearts and lives prayse and adore him And in this sense the solemn Coronation of our God is like Himself everlasting he that hath the honour to be one of those who magnifieth God hath this happinesse that he is said to extol God he glorifieth he crowneth his God and this is the (9) Non tam mea sunt quae mea sunt quam quae tua Plin. lib. 4. Epist 4. Crown of a Christian duty So shalt thou have (10) Rom. 13.3 compared with Gal. 1.24 Ephes 1.12 praise of the same Quest (11) Phil. 2 21 1 Cor. 10.24 2 Cor. 5.15 Sensum quendam voluptatemq percipio si ea quae mihi denegantur amicrs video superesse Plin. lib. 1. Ep. 10. What praise Answ The praise of bringing glory to thy God I undervalue my labours if I take paines for mine own only profit mine own only interest or mine own slender reputation The toyl which I undertake let me undertake it for the honour of my God No commendation (12) Ezra 9.6 sinful I do or can deserve Neverthelesse no that commendeth me or mine endeavours doth it to my losse let him praise not me for I am [13] 2 Cor. 12.11 Nothing but His God for His God is mine and he most favoureth me who [14] 2 Cor. 10.17 Psalm 115.1 105.3 103.1 23 2 Cor. 10.11 Gal. 1.24 Psalm 142.7.34.2 3. Amor non nisi donum amantis in amatum Gulicl Parisien de legibus c. 19. most glorifieth my God Lastly Life [1] Hoc etiam est quam ob rem cupiam vivere Plaut Curcul Psalm 119.17 1 Thes 3.8 2 Pet. 1.3 1 Tim. 4.8 Deut. 30.20 but such as dishonour God non tam vivunt quam in vitâ sunt Seneca Non est mortale quod opto Col. 3.3 more abundant Oh Sirs So often as we glorifie our God as God we anticipate life to come Then is our conversation like that in heaven when we be ever rejoycing in the Lord ever mentioning the loving-kindness of our God Verily we then seem to sit in heavenly places among Saints and Angels when in the midst of the congregation we set forth the prayses of our God in Psalmes in Hymns and in spiritual Songs Christians if ye know what it is to glorifie your God you will roll away that stone against which some have stumbled It will be unto you no trouble of heart if as you believe in God and believe in Christ so you through Jesus Christ celebrate [2] Psal 29.9 the name of your God publiquely and solemnly in your Fathers House Know Brethren if we glorifie God here upon earth They in heaven can do no more The most which They can do is though after a more heavenly manner to glorifie Our God We do what the Saints in [3] Psal 149.9 Neque ad loquendum digne de Deo lingua sufficit Neque ad pereipiendum intelâ—ectus praevalet magis ergo glorisicdre nos convenit Deum quod talis est qui intellectuÌ„ traâ—scendit cognitionis initium superat beaven do we do what the Angels in heaven do if we glorifie our God We do as the blessed Spirit doth we do as the Son of the Father doth yea we do as the Father himself doth if we glorifie our God Seeing it is unto us so great a glory to glorifie this God Seeing it is unto us heaven upon earth seeing it is unto us Life more abundant to laud praise and blesse the Name of our God I beseech you Friends Let us no more absent our selves from the Liturgie of our Church but let the Lord God have the glory of our open publick and solemn Thanksgivings Yea let us watch alwayes over our conversations words and hearts that at [1] Psalm 34.1 71.6 8 15 109.30 96.2.145.2 7 9 10 21 119.164 97 25.5 89.16 Nihil mihi fuit optatius quà m ut primum abs Te-ipjo deinde à caeteris omnibus quà m gratissimus erga Te esse cognoscerer Cicero Epist familiar lib. 1. Epist 5. all times whether in private or in publique whether in our labours or in [2] Non solum negotij sed otij reddendaâ—est ratio Col. 3.17 our recreations whether we mourn or rejoyce sleep or wake eat or drink or whatsoever we do we may [3] 1 Cor. 10.31 do all and desire to do all unto the glory of our God Beloved if we keep our selves [1] 2 Tim. 2 21 ever prepared unto every good work if we keep our selves ever unfeignedly desirous to ever glorifie our God Lo We have Psalmes and set-forms to [2] Eccles 5.2 Hos 14.2 furnish us with words the holy Scriptures to [3] 2 Tim. 3.16 instruct us in our duties the holy Spirit to [4] Rom. 8.26 Luke 11.13 Acts 5.32 Phil 2.12 13 assist us in our endeavours a [5] Heb. 4.15 16 1 John 2.1 2 Jude 24 Ephes 5.27 2 Cor. 4.14 15 Col 1.22 23 28 powerful Mediatour to render our imperfect performances perfectly acceptable nor can we want a perpetual supply of matter for our perpetual prayses and thanksgivings if we apply our selves unto the [6] See of this Treatise page 278.279 last General Part which limiteth this present Discourse I proceed therefore from the innumerable reasons why we should ever give thanks and prayses to the Lord our God unto the boundlesse matter of these our praises and thanksgivings The matter of our prayses and thanksgivings comprehendeth the three Kingdomes 1 represented in my Text. What supplyeth unto us perpetual matter for which our God is glorified If He who delighteth to [1] page 278. 1 Cor. 1.27 28 2 Cor. 4.7 strengthen grace by weak Instruments hath by * New Books are like new fashions taken up at the first with affection this Discourse of mine profited your soules then before we enter these three Provinces pause you here ye Christians Though such as I have I [2] Mat. 10 8 give Silver and Gold [3] See of this Treatise page 30 I have none at most so little that the imprinting of Sermons is too heavy for my light Purse Vnto the good example of other Generous Friends be it spoken What I write that another printeth not I but the surviving the affectionate Husband of a Gentlewoman now with God is [4] Imitating Jacob Gen. 35.20 the sole Publisher of this expensive Treatise and that not so much in memory of his dear Consort as in [5] 2 Cor. 13.9 Hominum charitas gratuita est Cicero de nat Deornm l. 1. 1 Cor. 13.5 compassion of us He so