doctrine_n &_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o the_o whole_a doctrine_n of_o faith_n be_v ground_v and_o gather_v out_o of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v comprise_v in_o the_o creed_n common_o call_v the_o apostle_n creed_n which_o be_v already_o by_o we_o expound_v it_o follow_v in_o order_n next_o after_o the_o doctrine_n to_o lay_v down_o also_o the_o practice_n of_o faith_n for_o which_o purpose_n we_o have_v choose_v this_o 11._o chapter_n to_o the_o hebrew_n as_o be_v a_o portion_n of_o scripture_n wherein_o the_o say_a practice_n of_o faith_n be_v most_o excellent_o and_o at_o large_a set_v down_o this_o chapter_n depend_v on_o the_o former_a thus_o coherence_n we_o may_v read_v in_o the_o former_a chapter_n that_o many_o jew_n have_v receive_v the_o faith_n and_o give_v their_o name_n to_o christ_n do_v afterward_o fall_v away_o therefore_o towards_o the_o end_n of_o the_o chapter_n there_o be_v add_v a_o notable_a exhortation_n tend_v to_o persuade_v the_o hebrew_n to_o persevere_v in_o faith_n unto_o the_o end_n as_o also_o to_o suffer_v patient_o what_o ever_o shall_v befall_v they_o in_o the_o profession_n of_o it_o and_o to_o urge_v the_o exhortation_n there_o be_v diverse_a reason_n not_o needful_a to_o be_v allege_v for_o they_o concern_v not_o the_o present_a purpose_n now_o in_o this_o chapter_n he_o continue_v the_o same_o exhortation_n and_o the_o whole_a chapter_n as_o i_o take_v it_o be_v nothing_o else_o in_o substance_n but_o one_o reason_n to_o urge_v the_o former_a exhortation_n to_o perseverance_n in_o faith_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v draw_v from_o the_o excellency_n of_o faith_n for_o this_o chapter_n do_v diverse_a way_n set_v down_o what_o a_o excellent_a gift_n of_o god_n faith_n be_v his_o whole_a scope_n therefore_o be_v manifest_a to_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o to_o urge_v they_o to_o persevere_v &_o continue_v in_o that_o faith_n prove_v at_o large_a to_o be_v so_o excellent_a a_o thing_n &_o indeed_o he_o can_v not_o bring_v a_o better_a argument_n to_o move_v they_o to_o love_n and_o hold_v fast_o their_o faith_n then_o by_o persuade_v they_o of_o the_o excellency_n of_o it_o for_o common_a reason_n bid_v we_o not_o only_o choose_v but_o hold_v fast_o that_o that_o be_v excellent_a out_o of_o this_o coherence_n we_o may_v learn_v in_o a_o word_n that_o perseverance_n in_o faith_n be_v a_o matter_n not_o of_o ordinary_a necessity_n nor_o of_o mean_a excellency_n to_o the_o urge_v whereof_o the_o author_n of_o this_o epistle_n use_v so_o large_a &_o so_o forcible_a a_o exhortation_n in_o so_o much_o as_o whereas_o ordinary_a exhortation_n occupy_v the_o room_n of_o one_o or_o some_o few_o verse_n this_o be_v continue_v through_o diverse_a chapter_n the_o part_n of_o this_o whole_a chapter_n be_v two_o 1._o a_o general_a description_n of_o faith_n from_o the_o first_o verse_n to_o the_o four_o 2._o a_o illustration_n or_o declaration_n of_o that_o description_n by_o a_o large_a rehearsal_n of_o manifold_a example_n of_o ancient_a and_o worthy_a man_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n from_o the_o 4._o verse_n to_o the_o end_n of_o these_o two_o in_o order_n the_o description_n of_o faith_n consist_v of_o three_o action_n or_o effect_n of_o faith_n set_v down_o in_o three_o several_a verse_n the_o first_o effect_n in_o the_o first_o verse_n faith_n make_v thing_n which_o be_v not_o but_o only_a be_v hope_v for_o after_o a_o sort_n to_o subsist_v and_o to_o be_v present_a with_o the_o believer_n the_o 2._o be_v in_o the_o 2._o five_o faith_n make_v a_o believer_n approve_v of_o god_n the_o 3._o in_o the_o 3._o verse_n faith_n make_v a_o man_n understand_v &_o believe_v thing_n incredible_a to_o sense_n and_o reason_n of_o these_o effect_n in_o order_n now_o faith_n be_v the_o ground_n of_o thing_n which_o be_v hope_v for_o &_o the_o evidence_n of_o thing_n which_o be_v not_o see_v 1._o this_o first_o verse_n contain_v the_o first_o effect_n in_o the_o description_n of_o faith_n wherein_o first_o let_v we_o see_v the_o true_a meaning_n of_o the_o word_n second_o what_o instruction_n they_o do_v natural_o yield_v unto_o us._n for_o the_o meaning_n we_o must_v examine_v the_o word_n several_o now_o faith_n faith_n in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v special_o of_o three_o sort_n historical_a miraculous_a justify_v or_o save_v faith_n 1._o historical_a faith_n be_v not_o only_o a_o knowledge_n of_o the_o word_n but_o a_o assent_n of_o the_o heart_n to_o the_o truth_n of_o it_o and_o this_o faith_n be_v general_a not_o only_o to_o all_o man_n good_a and_o bad_a but_o even_o to_o the_o devil_n themselves_o james._n 2.19_o thou_o believe_v there_o be_v one_o god_n thou_o do_v well_o the_o devil_n also_o believe_v it_o &_o tremble_v now_o he_o that_o will_v believe_v out_o of_o the_o scripture_n there_o be_v one_o god_n he_o will_v believe_v historical_o any_o thing_n in_o the_o scripture_n 2._o miraculous_a or_o the_o faith_n of_o miracle_n which_o be_v a_o inward_a persuasion_n of_o the_o heart_n wrought_v by_o some_o special_a instinct_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o some_o man_n whereby_o he_o be_v true_o persuade_v that_o god_n will_v use_v he_o as_o a_o instrument_n for_o the_o work_n of_o some_o miracle_n this_o also_o be_v general_a both_o to_o elect_v and_o reprobate_a judas_n have_v it_o with_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o apostle_n 3._o save_v common_o call_v justify_v faith_n which_o be_v a_o special_a persuasion_n wrought_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o those_o that_o be_v effectual_o call_v concern_v their_o reconciliation_n and_o salvation_n by_o christ._n of_o these_o three_o sort_n of_o faith_n the_o three_o be_v principal_o mean_v in_o this_o place_n and_o although_o in_o the_o description_n &_o over_o all_o the_o chapter_n there_o be_v some_o thing_n that_o agree_v to_o other_o faith_n than_o it_o yet_o i_o say_v the_o general_a scope_n in_o this_o chapter_n be_v principal_o of_o that_o faith_n that_o save_v a_o man_n it_o become_v we_o therefore_o to_o learn_v careful_o the_o instruction_n that_o concern_v the_o practice_n of_o this_o faith_n for_o it_o be_v no_o less_o than_o a_o save_a faith_n second_o it_o be_v say_v this_o faith_n be_v the_o ground_n or_o substance_n for_o the_o word_n signify_v both_o the_o meaning_n be_v thing_n hope_v for_o as_o yet_o be_v not_o and_o so_o have_v no_o be_v nor_o substance_n now_o faith_n that_o believe_v the_o promise_n and_o apply_v they_o that_o faith_n give_v to_o these_o thing_n which_o yet_o be_v not_o after_o a_o sort_n a_o substance_n or_o subsistence_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o believer_n so_o that_o that_o thing_n which_o never_o have_v nor_o yet_o have_v a_o be_v in_o itself_o by_o this_o faith_n have_v a_o be_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o believer_n this_o i_o take_v to_o be_v the_o true_a meaning_n three_o it_o follow_v of_o what_o thing_n this_o faith_n be_v the_o ground_n or_o substance_n namely_o of_o thing_n hope_v for_o and_o thing_n not_o see_v and_o these_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n either_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o father_n of_o the_o old_a testament_n alone_o or_o of_o they_o and_o we_o both_o of_o the_o first_o sort_n be_v these_o two_o 1._o the_o incarnation_n of_o christ._n 2._o the_o publish_n of_o the_o gospel_n both_o to_o jew_n and_o gentile_n in_o a_o glorious_a manner_n both_o these_o be_v hope_v for_o of_o they_o but_o we_o have_v see_v they_o to_o they_o they_o have_v a_o be_v only_o in_o faith_n to_o we_o a_o be_v in_o themselves_o now_o unto_o the_o father_n of_o the_o old_a testament_n their_o faith_n give_v these_o two_o thing_n a_o be_v in_o their_o heart_n and_o soul_n though_o they_o come_v not_o to_o pass_v many_o hundred_o year_n after_o there_o be_v other_o thing_n which_o we_o hope_v for_o as_o well_o as_o they_o which_o be_v to_o come_v and_o not_o see_v in_o respect_n of_o we_o both_o and_o they_o be_v six_o 1._o justification_n stand_v in_o the_o remission_n of_o sin_n 2._o sanctification_n in_o this_o life_n 3._o the_o perfection_n and_o accomplishment_n of_o our_o sanctification_n after_o this_o life_n 4._o the_o resurrection_n of_o the_o body_n and_o reunit_n it_o with_o the_o soul_n 5._o glorification_n of_o body_n and_o soul_n 6._o life_n everlasting_a and_o glory_n with_o god_n in_o heaven_n these_o they_o see_v not_o with_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o body_n neither_o do_v we_o yet_o they_o hope_v for_o they_o and_o so_o do_v we_o they_o have_v no_o be_v in_o themselves_o to_o they_o neither_o have_v they_o as_o yet_o to_o we_o but_o this_o true_a save_a faith_n give_v to_o they_o give_v to_o we_o and_o will_v give_v to_o every_o believer_n whilst_o the_o world_n last_v such_o a_o certain_a assurance_n of_o they_o that_o they_o seem_v present_a to_o we_o
it_o be_v needless_a for_o the_o man_n be_v good_a already_o else_o the_o work_n can_v not_o have_v be_v good_a we_o may_v therefore_o say_v work_n be_v rather_o justify_v by_o the_o person_n of_o a_o man_n than_o his_o person_n by_o the_o work_n and_o it_o be_v a_o most_o vain_a thing_n to_o look_v for_o justification_n from_o that_o which_o thou_o thyself_o must_v first_o justify_v afore_o it_o be_v just_a if_o we_o have_v no_o other_o reason_n against_o justification_n by_o work_n but_o this_o this_o be_v sufficient_a second_o hence_o we_o learn_v that_o till_o a_o man_n be_v call_v and_o his_o person_n justify_v and_o sanctify_v all_o that_o ever_o he_o do_v be_v sin_n 1._o his_o common_a action_n his_o eat_n drink_v sleep_a walk_a talk_a be_v all_o sin_n yea_o 2._o the_o work_n of_o his_o call_n &_o his_o labour_n in_o the_o same_o though_o never_o so_o just_a equal_a and_o upright_o 3._o further_o his_o civil_a action_n namely_o the_o practice_n of_o civil_a virtue_n his_o outward_a gravity_n meekness_n sobriety_n temperance_n quietness_n uprightness_n and_o all_o outward_a conformity_n be_v all_o sin_n yea_o more_o than_o all_o this_o his_o best_a action_n namely_o his_o practise_v of_o the_o part_n of_o god_n worship_n or_o his_o deed_n of_o charity_n his_o prayer_n his_o hear_v the_o word_n his_o receive_v the_o sacrament_n his_o give_v of_o alm_n they_o be_v all_o sin_n unto_o he_o if_o he_o have_v not_o a_o believe_a and_o penitent_a heart_n yea_o such_o sin_n as_o shall_v condemn_v hâ—m_n if_o he_o have_v no_o other_o object_n this_o shall_v seem_v strange_a divinity_n that_o the_o most_o holy_a action_n as_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n shall_v be_v damnable_a sin_n i_o answer_v they_o be_v in_o themselves_o holy_a and_o good_a and_o as_o far_o forth_o as_o god_n have_v command_v they_o yet_o in_o the_o doer_n they_o be_v sin_n because_o he_o do_v they_o from_o a_o foul_a &_o unholy_a heart_n for_o the_o same_o action_n may_v be_v holy_a in_o itself_o and_o in_o regard_n of_o god_n the_o author_n of_o it_o and_o yet_o a_o sin_n in_o he_o that_o be_v the_o doer_n of_o it_o as_o clear_a water_n pure_a in_o the_o fountain_n be_v corrupt_v or_o poison_v by_o run_v through_o a_o filthy_a and_o pollute_a channel_n so_o be_v even_o the_o best_a action_n sin_n as_o even_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n to_o a_o minister_n who_o heart_n be_v not_o cleanse_v by_o faith_n and_o his_o person_n accept_v of_o god_n it_o be_v a_o sin_n unto_o he_o and_o if_o he_o repent_v not_o shall_v be_v his_o condemnation_n cain_n sin_v not_o only_o in_o hate_v and_o murder_v his_o brother_n in_o lie_v and_o dissemble_v with_o god_n but_o cain_n sin_v also_o even_o in_o offer_v sacrifice_n and_o abel_n sacrifice_n have_v be_v a_o damnable_a sin_n but_o that_o his_o person_n be_v justify_v before_o god_n and_o the_o reason_n of_o all_o this_o be_v good_a for_o nothing_o in_o the_o work_n be_v able_a to_o make_v a_o action_n acceptable_a to_o god_n but_o only_o the_o acceptation_n of_o the_o person_n by_o christ._n this_o be_v so_o it_o stand_v we_o every_o one_o in_o hand_n to_o look_v to_o ourselves_o and_o to_o labour_v above_o all_o thing_n for_o faith_n and_o repentance_n that_o so_o our_o person_n may_v be_v accept_v righteous_a before_o god_n and_o thereby_o our_o action_n accept_v also_o if_o it_o be_v a_o miserable_a thing_n that_o all_o thy_o action_n even_o holy_a action_n shall_v be_v sin_n then_o labour_v to_o be_v justify_v for_o that_o only_o can_v make_v thy_o work_n accept_v if_o not_o then_o though_o thou_o labour_v never_o so_o much_o to_o be_v approve_v in_o the_o world_n &_o set_v never_o so_o glorious_a a_o show_n upon_o thy_o work_n to_o the_o eye_n of_o man_n they_o be_v all_o abominable_a sin_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n and_o at_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n they_o shall_v go_v for_o no_o better_a prithee_o and_o teach_v all_o thy_o life_n long_o nay_o give_v thy_o life_n to_o die_v for_o religion_n give_v all_o thy_o good_n to_o the_o poor_a deprive_v thy_o flesh_n of_o all_o delight_n build_v church_n college_n bridge_n highway_n etc._n etc._n and_o there_o may_v come_v a_o poor_a shepherd_n and_o for_o his_o keep_n of_o his_o sheep_n be_v accept_v when_o thou_o with_o all_o this_o pomp_n of_o outward_a holiness_n may_v be_v reject_v and_o why_o this_o only_o because_o he_o have_v faith_n &_o thou_o have_v none_o his_o person_n be_v justify_v before_o god_n and_o thou_o be_v not_o therefore_o let_v this_o be_v my_o counsel_n from_o abel_n labour_v not_o so_o much_o to_o work_v glorious_a work_n as_o that_o which_o thou_o do_v do_v it_o in_o faith_n faith_n make_v the_o mean_a work_n accept_v and_o want_v of_o faith_n make_v the_o most_o glorious_a work_v reject_v for_o so_o faith_n the_o text._n abel_n must_v be_v accept_v else_o his_o sacrifice_n be_v not_o thus_o we_o see_v abel_n be_v just_a and_o god_n so_o account_v he_o the_o second_o point_n be_v that_o god_n give_v testimony_n he_o be_v so_o in_o these_o word_n god_n give_v testimony_n what_o testimony_n it_o be_v that_o god_n give_v of_o abel_n and_o his_o gift_n it_o be_v not_o express_v in_o the_o word_n and_o so_o it_o be_v not_o certain_a but_o it_o be_v very_o likely_a that_o when_o he_o &_o cain_n offer_v god_n in_o special_a mercy_n send_v fire_n from_o heaven_n and_o burn_v up_o abel_n sacrifice_n but_o not_o cain_n for_o so_o it_o please_v the_o lord_n often_o afterward_o when_o he_o will_v show_v that_o he_o accept_v any_o man_n or_o his_o work_n he_o answer_v they_o by_o fire_n from_o heaven_n so_o he_o burn_v up_o the_o first_o sacrifice_n that_o aaron_n offer_v levit._n 9.24_o so_o he_o answer_v solomon_n 2._o chron._n 7.1_o and_o so_o elias_n 2._o king_n 18.28_o and_o so_o it_o be_v likely_a that_o he_o give_v this_o testimony_n that_o he_o accept_v abel_n and_o his_o offering_n this_o be_v a_o great_a prerogative_n that_o abel_n and_o the_o father_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n have_v we_o have_v not_o this_o but_o we_o have_v a_o great_a for_o we_o have_v that_o that_o be_v the_o substance_n and_o truth_n and_o body_n of_o this_o for_o we_o have_v also_o the_o fire_n of_o god_n that_o be_v his_o spirit_n come_v down_o into_o our_o heart_n every_o day_n not_o visible_o but_o spiritual_o and_o burn_v up_o in_o the_o heart_n of_o a_o believer_n his_o sin_n and_o corruption_n and_o light_v the_o light_n of_o true_a faith_n that_o shall_v never_o be_v put_v out_o the_o use_n hereof_o be_v this_o as_o no_o sacrifice_n in_o the_o old_a law_n please_v god_n but_o such_o as_o be_v burn_v by_o fire_n from_o heaven_n send_v down_o either_o then_o or_o afore_o so_o our_o sacrifice_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n that_o be_v our_o invocation_n of_o god_n name_n our_o sacrifice_n of_o praise_n our_o duty_n of_o religion_n our_o work_n of_o mercy_n and_o love_n never_o please_v god_n unless_o they_o proceed_v from_o a_o heart_n purge_v by_o the_o fire_n of_o god_n spirit_n that_o be_v from_o a_o believe_v and_o repentant_a heart_n both_o which_o be_v kindle_v and_o light_v and_o daily_o continue_v by_o that_o fire_n of_o god_n spirit_n therefore_o it_o be_v that_o paul_n say_v 1._o tim._n 1.4_o that_o love_n must_v come_v out_o of_o a_o pure_a heart_n and_o good_a conscience_n and_o faith_n unfeigned_a the_o duty_n of_o religion_n and_o work_n of_o love_n come_v from_o this_o purge_a heart_n ascend_v into_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n as_o a_o smoke_n of_o most_o acceptable_a sacrifice_n and_o be_v as_o a_o sweet_a perfume_n in_o the_o nostril_n of_o the_o lord_n now_o of_o what_o do_v god_n thus_o testify_v of_o his_o gift_n it_o may_v here_o be_v ask_v at_o the_o first_o how_o can_v abel_n give_v a_o gift_n to_o god_n have_v the_o lord_n need_v of_o any_o thing_n and_o be_v not_o all_o thing_n his_o i_o answer_v god_n be_v sovereign_a lord_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n and_o all_o creature_n yet_o have_v he_o so_o give_v his_o creature_n unto_o man_n to_o use_v as_o that_o they_o become_v man_n own_o and_o so_o he_o may_v esteem_v &_o use_v they_o and_o be_v man_n a_o man_n may_v in_o token_n of_o his_o thankfulness_n return_v they_o again_o to_o god_n especial_o see_v god_n accept_v they_o be_v so_o offer_v as_o most_o free_a gift_n this_o show_v we_o first_o the_o wonderful_a mercy_n of_o god_n that_o whereas_o we_o can_v offer_v he_o nothing_o but_o his_o own_o he_o vouchsafe_v to_o accept_v a_o gift_n offer_v of_o his_o own_o even_o as_o though_o we_o have_v of_o our_o own_o to_o offer_v 2._o see_v here_o a_o difference_n betwixt_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o the_o old_a and_o
not_o christ_n or_o know_v he_o acknowledge_v he_o not_o their_o only_a saviour_n or_o acknowledge_v he_o do_v not_o true_o believe_v in_o he_o with_o such_o a_o faith_n as_o purify_v their_o heart_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o as_o the_o father_n call_v they_o splendida_fw-la peccata_fw-la gild_v and_o glitter_a dross_n and_o beautiful_a deformity_n and_o however_o this_o seem_v harsh_a yet_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v true_a see_v without_o faith_n it_o be_v impossible_a to_o please_v god_n and_o here_o also_o the_o vanity_n of_o some_o popish_a writer_n appear_v who_o presumptuous_o make_v some_o philosopher_n saint_n whereas_o they_o shall_v first_o have_v show_v that_o they_o believe_v in_o christ_n and_o then_o we_o will_v believe_v and_o teach_v it_o as_o willing_o as_o they_o but_o else_o if_o they_o have_v have_v all_o the_o learning_n and_o all_o the_o moral_a virtue_n in_o the_o world_n this_o must_v stand_v for_o a_o truth_n without_o faith_n it_o be_v impossible_a to_o please_v god_n last_o here_o we_o learn_v that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n register_v in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n do_v contain_v in_o it_o sufficient_a direction_n for_o all_o the_o action_n and_o duty_n of_o a_o man_n life_n for_o without_o faith_n no_o man_n can_v please_v god_n and_o if_o no_o man_n than_o no_o man_n action_n can_v please_v god_n which_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n for_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n roman_n chapter_n 14._o verse_n 23._o if_o therefore_o man_n action_n must_v proceed_v from_o faith_n then_o consequent_o must_v they_o have_v their_o ground_n &_o warrant_v from_o the_o word_n for_o faith_n and_o the_o word_n be_v relative_n and_o the_o one_o depend_v upon_o the_o other_o no_o faith_n no_o word_n to_o bind_v no_o word_n no_o faith_n to_o believe_v but_o all_o action_n that_o please_v god_n must_v be_v do_v in_o faith_n therefore_o all_o action_n that_o please_v god_n have_v some_o ground_n and_o direction_n in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n without_o which_o word_n of_o god_n there_o can_v be_v no_o faith_n and_o this_o be_v true_a not_o only_o in_o holy_a action_n but_o even_o in_o the_o common_a action_n of_o man_n life_n and_o lawful_a calling_n this_o be_v a_o principle_n which_o we_o must_v firm_o believe_v and_o receive_v and_o beside_o this_o argument_n here_o it_o be_v also_o prove_v by_o the_o evident_a testimony_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n 3.16.17_o s._n paul_n to_o timothy_n all_o scripture_n be_v give_v by_o inspiration_n of_o god_n and_o be_v profitable_a to_o teach_v improve_v correct_v and_o instruct_v in_o righteousness_n that_o the_o man_n of_o god_n may_v be_v absolute_a and_o make_v perfect_a unto_o all_o good_a work_n how_o can_v the_o sufficiency_n of_o scripture_n be_v more_o sufficient_o in_o word_n express_v again_o every_o creature_n and_o ordinance_n of_o god_n 4.4.5_o be_v good_a etc._n etc._n for_o it_o be_v sanctify_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o prayer_n now_o if_o the_o scripture_n make_v a_o christian_a perfect_a in_o all_o good_a work_n how_o can_v it_o be_v but_o it_o give_v he_o sufficient_a direction_n for_o all_o his_o work_n and_o if_o every_o action_n be_v sanctify_v by_o the_o word_n how_o can_v that_o be_v but_o the_o word_n have_v warranty_n and_o direction_n for_o every_o action_n and_o duty_n which_o may_v fall_v out_o in_o the_o course_n of_o a_o christian_a life_n and_o upon_o these_o ground_n we_o have_v good_a reason_n to_o be_v resolve_v of_o this_o truth_n but_o now_o if_o any_o man_n ask_v how_o this_o can_v be_v for_o the_o scripture_n be_v write_v long_o ago_o and_o the_o story_n be_v of_o particular_a man_n nation_n and_o time_n and_o the_o commandment_n be_v know_v to_o be_v but_o ten_o how_o then_o can_v the_o scripture_n yield_v sufficient_a direction_n for_o every_o man_n particular_a action_n i_o answer_v the_o scripture_n give_v direction_n for_o all_o action_n 2._o way_n either_o by_o rule_n or_o by_o example_n rule_n be_v of_o two_o sort_n general_n or_o particular_a particular_a rule_n for_o particular_a calling_n be_v many_o for_o king_n they_o must_v read_v god_n book_n and_o not_o have_v many_o wife_n 2._o nor_o gather_v too_o much_o silver_n and_o gold_n they_o must_v be_v wise_a and_o learned_a and_o kiss_v the_o son_n of_o god_n christ_n jesus_n and_o many_o other_o for_o minister_n they_o must_v be_v apt_a to_o teach_v watch_v sober_a not_o young_a scholar_n and_o many_o other_o and_o so_o consequent_o the_o most_o of_o the_o calling_n that_o be_v in_o the_o common_a wealth_n etc._n have_v their_o particular_a direction_n in_o plain_a rule_n 20._o general_n rule_n be_v first_o the_o ten_o commandment_n which_o be_v direction_n for_o all_o sort_n and_o calling_n of_o man_n in_o all_o time_n what_o to_o be_v do_v what_o not_o to_o be_v do_v in_o all_o action_n towards_o god_n and_o man_n and_o beside_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n there_o be_v some_o few_o rule_n which_o be_v general_a direction_n for_o all_o man_n in_o all_o age_n as_o whatsoever_o you_o will_v that_o man_n shall_v do_v to_o you_o do_v you_o the_o same_o unto_o they_o again_o 7.12_o whether_o you_o eat_v or_o drink_v or_o whatsoever_o you_o do_v do_v all_o to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n 10.31_o again_o let_v all_o thing_n be_v do_v to_o edification_n and_o without_o offence_n of_o thy_o brother_n again_o let_v all_o your_o work_n be_v do_v in_o love_n 14.26_o last_o let_v no_o man_n seek_v his_o own_o alone_o but_o every_o man_n another_o wealth_n now_o there_o be_v no_o action_n in_o the_o world_n 10.24_o nor_o any_o duty_n to_o be_v do_v of_o a_o christian_a man_n be_v he_o a_o public_a or_o private_a person_n be_v it_o a_o public_a or_o a_o private_a action_n be_v it_o towards_o god_n or_o man_n but_o if_o he_o have_v not_o a_o particular_a direction_n yet_o it_o fall_v within_o the_o compass_n of_o some_o of_o these_o rule_n and_o by_o the_o tenor_n of_o some_o of_o these_o he_o may_v frame_v his_o work_n in_o such_o manner_n as_o shall_v be_v please_v to_o god_n and_o comfortable_a to_o himself_o second_o beside_o rule_n there_o be_v example_n which_o be_v special_a direction_n and_o they_o be_v either_o of_o god_n or_o good_a man_n extraordinary_a example_n of_o god_n namely_o such_o as_o he_o do_v in_o extraordinary_a time_n or_o upon_o extraordinary_a occasion_n they_o concern_v we_o not_o for_o these_o he_o do_v by_o the_o power_n and_o prerogative_n of_o the_o godhead_n as_o bid_v of_o abraham_n sacrifice_v his_o son_n bid_v the_o israelite_n spoil_v the_o egyptian_n 22._o and_o such_o like_a 11.2_o but_o the_o ordinary_a work_n of_o god_n wisdom_n in_o his_o creature_n of_o his_o justice_n towards_o sinner_n of_o his_o mercy_n towards_o his_o child_n of_o his_o care_n and_o providence_n towards_o all_o be_v excellent_a rule_n of_o direction_n for_o us._n hence_o we_o have_v these_o rule_n be_v you_o holy_a for_o i_o be_o holy_a be_v you_o merciful_a as_o your_o father_n in_o heaven_n be_v merciful_a luke_n 6.36_o so_o for_o the_o action_n of_o christ_n who_o be_v god_n and_o man_n the_o miraculous_a action_n of_o his_o power_n which_o argue_v his_o godhead_n as_o his_o walk_n upon_o the_o water_n and_o such_o like_a be_v no_o direction_n for_o us._n nor_o again_o his_o action_n and_o work_n â—lone_o as_o he_o be_v mediator_n as_o his_o fast_v forty_o day_n his_o passion_n and_o his_o merit_n these_o be_v no_o direction_n for_o we_o to_o do_v the_o like_a but_o as_o the_o first_o give_v we_o instruction_n so_o these_o procure_v we_o justification_n but_o the_o three_o sort_n of_o his_o action_n do_v by_o he_o as_o a_o man_n or_o as_o a_o jew_n bear_v they_o be_v both_o our_o instruction_n and_o imitation_n and_o they_o be_v good_a direction_n for_o our_o action_n as_o his_o obedience_n his_o zeal_n his_o patience_n his_o humility_n and_o all_o other_o virtue_n concern_v all_o which_o he_o say_v himself_o to_o we_o learn_v of_o i_o 11.29_o for_o i_o be_o humble_a and_o low_o and_o again_o when_o he_o have_v wash_v his_o apostle_n foot_n he_o bid_v they_o learn_v of_o he_o to_o love_v one_o another_o 15._o for_o say_v he_o i_o have_v give_v you_o example_n that_o you_o shall_v do_v even_o as_o i_o have_v do_v to_o you_o these_o his_o example_n be_v rule_n of_o direction_n to_o all_o man_n in_o the_o like_a case_n now_o as_o for_o the_o example_n of_o man_n as_o the_o example_n of_o wicked_a man_n be_v every_o way_n to_o be_v eschew_v so_o good_a man_n be_v to_o be_v follow_v for_o whatsoever_o be_v write_v be_v write_v for_o our_o learning_n rom._n 15.4_o and_o for_o they_o we_o be_v to_o know_v that_o their_o example_n or_o action_n contrary_a to_o the_o word_n be_v therefore_o to_o be_v avoid_v
then_o assure_o his_o heart_n be_v void_a of_o true_a faith_n and_o far_o from_o the_o life_n and_o power_n of_o religion_n for_o assure_o where_o god_n be_v know_v and_o believe_v there_o that_o man_n heart_n though_o he_o be_v a_o king_n can_v once_o think_v of_o god_n without_o a_o reverence_n of_o his_o majesty_n and_o a_o admiration_n at_o his_o greatness_n and_o his_o own_o baseness_n therefore_o the_o want_n of_o this_o argue_v a_o want_n of_o true_a religion_n and_o true_a faith_n in_o man_n heart_n second_o this_o profaneness_n discover_v itself_o to_o the_o world_n by_o want_n of_o reverence_n to_o god_n work_n let_v the_o lord_n send_v unseasonable_a weather_n or_o famine_n or_o plague_n or_o any_o strange_a sign_n in_o heaven_n or_o in_o earth_n forthwith_o they_o be_v but_o fool_n that_o cry_v out_o behold_v the_o finger_n of_o god_n the_o hand_n of_o god_n no_o this_o be_v nature_n and_o be_v produce_v by_o natural_a cause_n ill_o weather_n come_v from_o the_o star_n famine_n from_o ill_a weather_n and_o man_n covetousness_n plague_n from_o famine_n or_o from_o ill_a air_n or_o else_o by_o apparent_a infection_n from_o another_o place_n but_o can_v nature_n and_o natural_a mean_n have_v their_o place_n unless_o they_o have_v god_n place_n god_n overthrow_v not_o they_o why_o shall_v they_o overthrow_v god_n yet_o thus_o it_o be_v in_o the_o world_n and_o thus_o god_n be_v rob_v of_o his_o glory_n and_o he_o be_v but_o a_o simple_a fellow_n which_o be_v move_v with_o reverence_n at_o sight_n of_o such_o thing_n or_o begin_v to_o magnify_v god_n power_n and_o justice_n in_o they_o this_o be_v too_o apparent_a to_o be_v deny_v for_o have_v we_o not_o now_o as_o great_a cause_n of_o fear_n as_o can_v be_v noah_n hear_v of_o water_n and_o we_o hear_v that_o fire_n be_v to_o destroy_v the_o world_n and_o yeâ—_n where_o be_v he_o that_o be_v move_v with_o reverence_n as_o noah_n be_v and_o yet_o noah_n can_v say_v the_o flood_n shall_v not_o be_v these_o 120._o year_n but_o who_o can_v say_v and_o prove_v that_o this_o world_n shall_v not_o be_v destroy_v by_o fire_n within_o these_o 120._o year_n and_o till_o the_o flood_n come_v they_o have_v doubtless_o many_o other_o plague_n which_o be_v forerunner_n of_o the_o general_a destruction_n all_o which_o as_o they_o come_v move_v noah_n unto_o reverence_n and_o so_o we_o in_o this_o age_n do_v see_v the_o great_a work_n of_o god_n judgement_n upon_o man_n upon_o family_n upon_o town_n upon_o country_n and_o whole_a kingdom_n and_o we_o feel_v his_o heavy_a hand_n in_o many_o sharp_a stroke_n but_o who_o and_o where_o be_v they_o who_o heart_n fear_v god_n the_o more_o and_o do_v tremble_v in_o the_o consideration_n of_o his_o judgement_n nay_o alas_o among_o many_o it_o be_v but_o a_o matter_n of_o mockery_n so_o to_o do_v this_o be_v not_o the_o fault_n of_o our_o religion_n but_o the_o want_n of_o it_o for_o if_o man_n true_o know_v and_o believe_v in_o god_n they_o can_v not_o think_v nor_o speak_v of_o god_n nor_o look_v at_o his_o work_n but_o with_o fear_n and_o reverence_n for_o as_o our_o fear_n of_o god_n be_v so_o be_v our_o faith_n little_a fear_n of_o god_n little_a faith_n and_o no_o fear_n at_o all_o no_o faith_n at_o all_o let_v therefore_o all_o man_n show_v their_o religion_n by_o their_o fear_n of_o god_n and_o let_v every_o christian_a acknowledge_v god_n in_o his_o work_n england_n have_v be_v faulty_a herein_o in_o one_o point_n especial_o we_o have_v have_v great_a plague_n which_o have_v take_v away_o many_o thousand_o in_o short_a time_n wherein_o god_n have_v show_v himself_o mighty_a against_o our_o sin_n but_o god_n hand_n will_v not_o be_v see_v nor_o acknowledge_v but_o only_a nature_n and_o natural_a cause_n but_o let_v england_n take_v heed_n that_o god_n send_v not_o a_o plague_n so_o general_a and_o so_o grievous_a that_o even_o the_o most_o profane_a man_n even_o the_o sorcerer_n of_o egypt_n if_o they_o be_v here_o do_v acknowledge_v that_o it_o be_v the_o finger_n of_o god_n and_o so_o give_v god_n that_o due_a reverence_n which_o in_o his_o ordinary_a visitation_n he_o have_v not_o thus_o we_o see_v the_o ground_n whence_o this_o reverence_n in_o noah_n spring_v namely_o his_o faith_n now_o let_v we_o see_v the_o occasion_n or_o consideration_n in_o noah_n heart_n that_o make_v he_o fear_n the_o ground_n whereupon_o he_o fear_v be_v true_a faith_n for_o else_o he_o have_v not_o be_v capable_a of_o any_o fear_n or_o reverence_n of_o god_n but_o the_o occasion_n which_o stir_v up_o this_o fear_n in_o he_o be_v some_o thing_n else_o now_o if_o we_o look_v to_o humane_a reason_n noah_n have_v no_o cause_n at_o all_o to_o fear_v as_o he_o do_v for_o first_o the_o judgement_n be_v far_o off_o 120._o year_n after_o and_o common_a reason_n say_v its_o folly_n to_o fear_v any_o thing_n so_o far_o off_o but_o its_o time_n enough_o to_o fear_v when_o it_o be_v near_o at_o hand_n again_o he_o be_v one_o single_a man_n and_o the_o world_n be_v full_a of_o wise_a and_o mighty_a man_n they_o all_o hear_v of_o it_o yet_o none_o of_o they_o fear_v therefore_o their_o exsample_n may_v prevail_v with_o he_o to_o keep_v he_o from_o fear_n and_o to_o make_v he_o secure_a and_o careless_a with_o the_o rest_n for_o exsample_n be_v strong_a especial_o when_o they_o be_v so_o general_a three_o the_o strangeness_n of_o the_o judgement_n threaten_v be_v such_o as_o may_v drive_v any_o man_n in_o reason_n from_o fear_v it_o at_o all_o for_o first_o who_o will_v ever_o believe_v that_o god_n will_v drown_v all_o the_o world_n with_o water_n such_o a_o thing_n never_o have_v be_v and_o therefore_o how_o can_v it_o be_v and_o again_o if_o all_o shall_v be_v drown_v who_o will_v think_v that_o noah_n shall_v escape_v and_o none_o but_o he_o these_o three_o consideration_n be_v weigh_v in_o the_o balance_n of_o man_n reason_n will_v have_v keep_v noah_n from_o fear_v or_o believe_v this_o word_n of_o god_n but_o behold_v the_o power_n of_o faith_n it_o go_v beyond_o all_o humane_a reach_n fix_v itself_o fast_o on_o god_n word_n and_o therefore_o he_o not_o only_o believe_v it_o but_o have_v furthermore_o his_o heart_n possess_v with_o a_o great_a reverence_n of_o god_n majesty_n upon_o this_o message_n and_o there_o be_v three_o motive_n stir_v he_o up_o unto_o this_o reverence_n first_o the_o consideration_n of_o god_n strange_a judgement_n upon_o the_o sinful_a world_n to_o see_v that_o his_o wrath_n be_v so_o provoke_v that_o he_o shall_v bring_v so_o unwonted_a a_o plague_n so_o strange_a both_o for_o the_o nature_n of_o it_o a_o flood_n of_o water_n to_o drown_v man_n whereas_o general_o all_o man_n can_v avoid_v the_o violence_n of_o that_o element_n &_o for_o the_o measure_n of_o it_o so_o great_a as_o it_o shall_v drown_v all_o the_o world_n and_o destroy_v all_o man_n now_o that_o which_o this_o judgement_n of_o god_n wrought_v in_o noah_n the_o same_o effect_n shall_v god_n judgement_n work_v in_o we_o namely_o they_o shall_v move_v we_o with_o reverence_n for_o as_o christ_n say_v our_o day_n be_v like_o noah_n as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o day_n of_o noah_n so_o shall_v the_o day_n be_v before_o the_o come_n of_o christ_n matthew_n 24.37_o these_o day_n be_v as_o wicked_a man_n be_v as_o covetous_a as_o cruel_a as_o malicious_a as_o voluptuous_a and_o yet_o as_o secure_v as_o they_o then_o be_v as_o full_a of_o sin_n and_o yet_o as_o dead_a in_o sin_n as_o they_o be_v then_o therefore_o noah_n look_v for_o a_o flood_n 120._o year_n after_o and_o who_o can_v tell_v whether_o our_o world_n shall_v last_v so_o long_a a_o time_n or_o no_o at_o least_o we_o may_v safe_o say_v whatsoever_o the_o world_n do_v there_o be_v no_o man_n live_v but_o within_o far_o less_o time_n than_o 120._o year_n be_v assure_v to_o be_v throw_v to_o hell_n by_o a_o flood_n of_o god_n wrath_n at_o his_o death_n unless_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n he_o repent_v and_o yet_o alas_o where_o be_v he_o that_o be_v move_v with_o reverence_n at_o consideration_n hereof_o the_o wicked_a man_n may_v escape_v the_o water_n of_o a_o flood_n but_o he_o can_v escape_v the_o fire_n of_o hell_n he_o can_v escape_v death_n he_o can_v escape_v the_o last_o judgement_n these_o be_v to_o come_v yet_o they_o be_v sure_a why_o then_o do_v not_o man_n fear_v as_o noah_n do_v he_o fear_v 120._o year_n afore_o it_o come_v we_o can_v indeed_o tremble_v a_o little_a at_o a_o present_a judgement_n as_o when_o fire_n break_v out_o when_o water_n overflowe_v when_o the_o plague_n destroy_v or_o when_o famine_n consume_v but_o to_o tremble_v at_o a_o judgement_n threaten_v though_o it_o
one_o and_o beside_o that_o the_o greek_a construction_n do_v well_o bear_v it_o the_o judgement_n of_o almost_o all_o interpreter_n refer_v it_o to_o the_o ark_n and_o further_o in_o all_o reason_n that_o that_o save_v he_o and_o his_o household_n condemn_v the_o world_n also_o but_o the_o ark_n be_v say_v to_o have_v save_v they_o therefore_o by_o it_o he_o condemn_v the_o world_n neither_o be_v this_o any_o derogation_n but_o a_o commendation_n of_o faith_n for_o by_o faith_n he_o make_v that_o ark_n which_o ark_n condemn_v the_o world_n now_o by_o the_o ark_n noah_n condemn_v the_o world_n two_o way_n 1._o by_o his_o obedience_n in_o build_v it_o 2._o by_o his_o preach_n in_o build_v it_o for_o the_o first_o god_n bad_a noah_n build_v a_o ark_n so_o great_a and_o to_o such_o a_o use_n as_o in_o all_o reason_n no_o man_n will_v have_v do_v it_o yet_o noah_n by_o the_o power_n of_o his_o faith_n believe_v god_n word_n and_o obey_v and_o therefore_o build_v the_o ark_n this_o faith_n and_o this_o obedience_n of_o noah_n to_o this_o commandment_n of_o god_n condemn_v the_o unbelieved_a and_o disobedient_a world_n and_o make_v they_o without_o excuse_n so_o say_v christ_n the_o ninivites_fw-la who_o believe_v at_o the_o preach_n of_o jonas_n shall_v rise_v in_o judgement_n against_o the_o jew_n and_o condemn_v they_o because_o they_o repent_v not_o at_o christ_n preach_v and_o the_o queen_n of_o saba_n who_o come_v so_o far_o to_o hear_v solomon_n shall_v condemn_v they_o who_o then_o will_v not_o hear_v christ_n math._n 12.42.43_o even_o so_o noah_n obedience_n shall_v condemn_v they_o for_o noah_n be_v tell_v of_o a_o miraculous_a thing_n and_o believe_v it_o and_o be_v command_v so_o unreasonable_a a_o thing_n as_o the_o make_n of_o the_o ark_n and_o obey_v shall_v condemn_v that_o wicked_a world_n who_o will_v not_o believe_v god_n ordinary_a promise_n nor_o obey_v his_o ordinary_a and_o most_o holy_a commandment_n and_o as_o the_o saint_n be_v say_v to_o condemn_v the_o world_n 1._o corinth_n 6.2_o by_o be_v witness_n against_o they_o and_o approver_n of_o god_n just_a sentence_n so_o noah_n fact_n and_o faith_n condemn_v that_o world_n and_o thus_o we_o see_v it_o be_v apparent_a that_o the_o obedience_n and_o godly_a example_n of_o good_a man_n do_v condemn_v the_o ungodly_a the_o use_n whereof_o be_v to_o encourage_v we_o all_o to_o embrace_v christian_a religion_n and_o not_o be_v daunt_v by_o the_o scorn_v or_o other_o evil_a behaviour_n of_o profane_a man_n which_o can_v abide_v the_o gospel_n for_o he_o that_o walk_v in_o the_o way_n of_o holiness_n and_o keep_v good_a conscience_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o wicked_a generation_n if_o his_o godliness_n do_v not_o overcome_v their_o evil_n and_o convert_v they_o it_o shall_v more_o demonstrate_v their_o wickedness_n and_o condemn_v they_o our_o church_n be_v full_a of_o mocker_n and_o they_o discourage_v many_o from_o christ_n &_o religion_n but_o let_v they_o know_v this_o will_v be_v the_o end_n of_o it_o their_o obedience_n who_o they_o contemn_v and_o laugh_v at_o will_v be_v their_o condemnation_n and_o thus_o noah_n by_o his_o obedience_n in_o build_v the_o ark_n condemn_v the_o world_n second_o so_o do_v he_o also_o by_o his_o preach_n as_o he_o build_v it_o for_o the_o build_n of_o the_o ark_n be_v a_o part_n of_o his_o prophetical_a ministry_n the_o prophet_n preach_v two_o way_n in_o word_n &_o in_o action_n for_o beside_o their_o verbal_a preach_n and_o deliver_v of_o god_n word_n they_o preach_v in_o their_o life_n and_o action_n especial_o in_o such_o action_n as_o be_v extraordinary_a and_o such_o be_v noah_n building_n of_o the_o ark_n it_o be_v a_o actual_a preach_n yea_o every_o stroke_n upon_o the_o ark_n be_v a_o loud_a sermon_n to_o the_o eye_n and_o ear_n of_o that_o wicked_a world_n for_o by_o make_v it_o he_o signify_v some_o shall_v be_v save_v and_o the_o rest_n drown_v namely_o all_o that_o will_v believe_v and_o repent_v shall_v be_v save_v in_o it_o and_o all_o that_o will_v not_o shall_v out_o of_o it_o be_v drown_v &_o because_o they_o believe_v not_o this_o therefore_o by_o it_o he_o condemn_v they_o from_o this_o ground_n we_o may_v learnâ—_n first_o that_o a_o man_n may_v be_v a_o true_a and_o sincere_a minister_n lawful_o call_v by_o god_n and_o his_o church_n and_o yet_o not_o turn_v many_o unto_o god_n nor_o by_o his_o ministry_n bring_v many_o to_o repentance_n for_o here_o noah_n a_o prophet_n call_v immediate_o yet_o in_o 120._o year_n preach_v both_o in_o word_n and_o action_n he_o can_v turn_v one_o to_o faith_n and_o repentance_n a_o most_o fearful_a thing_n if_o we_o well_o consider_v it_o that_o both_o by_o preach_v and_o make_v the_o ark_n he_o shall_v not_o turn_v one_o of_o the_o son_n of_o lamech_n methushelah_n or_o henoch_n to_o believe_v he_o but_o that_o they_o shall_v all_o rather_o choose_v to_o be_v mislead_v in_o the_o general_a vanity_n of_o that_o wicked_a world_n then_o to_o serve_v god_n with_o noah_n this_o be_v a_o most_o uncomfortable_a thing_n unto_o he_o as_o can_v be_v yet_o this_o have_v be_v the_o case_n and_o lot_n of_o many_o holy_a prophet_n isaiah_n must_v go_v and_o preach_v unto_o they_o and_o yet_o his_o doctrine_n must_v harden_v their_o heart_n that_o they_o may_v not_o be_v save_v isaiah_n 6.10_o and_o ezekiel_n must_v go_v and_o speak_v and_o yet_o be_v tell_v aforehand_o they_o will_v not_o hear_v he_o nor_o repent_v ezek._n 3.4.7_o and_o when_o s._n paul_n himself_o preach_v unto_o the_o jew_n at_o rome_n some_o believe_v not_o act_n 28.24_o there_o be_v nothing_o will_v more_o discourage_v a_o man_n and_o cast_v down_o his_o heart_n then_o to_o see_v that_o his_o labour_n be_v not_o only_o in_o vain_a but_o do_v take_v a_o contrary_a effect_n that_o whereas_o they_o be_v bestow_v to_o have_v save_v they_o they_o be_v mean_n of_o their_o deep_a condemnation_n therefore_o as_o when_o their_o labour_n bring_v man_n to_o god_n they_o may_v great_o rejoice_v and_o account_v those_o people_n as_o s._n paul_n do_v the_o thessalonian_n his_o crown_n his_o joy_n and_o glory_n 2.20.21_o so_o when_o they_o do_v no_o good_a as_o noah_n here_o but_o that_o man_n be_v worse_o and_o worse_o this_o must_v humble_v and_o abase_v they_o in_o themselves_o &_o let_v they_o know_v the_o power_n and_o virtue_n be_v not_o in_o they_o but_o god_n so_o say_v s._n paul_n to_o the_o ungodly_a &_o impenitent_a among_o the_o corinthian_n i_o fear_v say_v he_o when_o i_o come_v 1_o my_o god_n abase_v i_o among_o you_o &_o i_o shall_v bewail_v many_o of_o they_o which_o have_v sin_v &_o not_o repent_v and_o sure_o this_o or_o nothing_o will_v abase_v a_o minister_n &_o minister_v matter_n of_o great_a bewail_v yet_o not_o so_o but_o as_o still_o there_o be_v matter_n of_o true_a comfort_n &_o contentment_n unto_o all_o godly_a &_o faithful_a teacher_n for_o whether_o thy_o labour_n be_v the_o savour_n of_o life_n unto_o life_n 2.15.16_o or_o of_o death_n unto_o death_n to_o thy_o hearer_n it_o be_v to_o god_n a_o sweet_a savour_n in_o christ._n again_o we_o may_v here_o learn_v that_o those_o who_o be_v condemn_v before_o god_n have_v their_o condemnation_n by_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n the_o secret_n of_o all_o the_o world_n say_v the_o apostle_n shall_v be_v judge_v by_o jesus_n christ_n according_a to_o the_o gospel_n and_o here_o the_o preach_n of_o noah_n and_o his_o actual_a preach_v by_o prepare_v the_o ark_n condemn_v the_o world_n such_o be_v the_o power_n and_o might_n of_o the_o ministry_n of_o god_n word_n upon_o all_o they_o that_o resist_v it_o which_o be_v so_o shall_v teach_v all_o man_n when_o they_o come_v to_o hear_v god_n word_n to_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o power_n of_o it_o to_o obey_v it_o and_o become_v penitent_a for_o otherwise_o so_o many_o sermon_n as_o a_o man_n hear_v so_o many_o inditement_n be_v present_v to_o god_n against_o he_o and_o if_o at_o the_o last_o day_n there_o be_v no_o devil_n to_o accuse_v those_o bill_n of_o inditement_n will_v both_o accuse_v and_o condemn_v he_o and_o this_o judgement_n be_v begin_v in_o this_o life_n as_o their_o conscience_n do_v often_o tell_v they_o and_o be_v accomplish_v at_o the_o last_o day_n for_o there_o be_v no_o dally_v with_o godâ—_n word_n if_o it_o can_v save_v it_o kill_v it_o be_v the_o fire_n which_o if_o it_o can_v soften_v it_o harden_v let_v then_o all_o impenitent_a man_n make_v conscience_n to_o obey_v god_n word_n for_o if_o now_o they_o abuse_v it_o it_o will_v be_v even_o with_o they_o both_o here_o and_o in_o another_o world_n for_o as_o the_o very_a same_o ark_n which_o save_v noah_n and_o his_o household_n condemn_v
son_n into_o the_o world_n that_o whosoever_o believe_v in_o he_o shall_v not_o perish_v but_o have_v everlasting_a life_n now_o when_o we_o be_v in_o the_o extremity_n of_o all_o temptation_n we_o must_v still_o hold_v fast_o this_o promise_n and_o venture_v our_o soul_n upon_o the_o truth_n of_o it_o this_o be_v abraham_n practice_n for_o in_o this_o temptation_n god_n meaning_n be_v to_o try_v abraham_n and_o to_o see_v what_o he_o will_v do_v now_o abraham_n he_o hold_v fast_o the_o promise_n and_o yet_o obey_v god_n though_o all_o the_o reason_n in_o the_o earth_n can_v tell_v how_o that_o promise_n and_o that_o commandment_n can_v stand_v together_o but_o this_o be_v abraham_n faith_n though_o i_o know_v not_o nor_o reason_n know_v not_o yet_o god_n know_v and_o therefore_o see_v i_o have_v his_o commandment_n i_o will_v obey_v it_o and_o see_v i_o have_v his_o word_n and_o promise_n i_o will_v believe_v that_o also_o and_o never_o forsake_v it_o and_o even_o thus_o must_v we_o strive_v to_o do_v in_o all_o temptation_n whatsoever_o yea_o even_o in_o those_o that_o come_v from_o satan_n which_o be_v full_a of_o malice_n and_o all_o violence_n in_o our_o heart_n and_o conscience_n we_o must_v still_o hold_v and_o believe_v the_o promise_n of_o god_n and_o this_o be_v ever_o the_o sure_a and_o safe_a way_n to_o get_v the_o victory_n over_o satan_n to_o hold_v that_o god_n promise_n shall_v be_v perform_v though_o we_o know_v not_o how_o but_o rather_o see_v the_o contrary_n and_o though_o in_o humane_a reason_n it_o be_v a_o note_n of_o ignorance_n and_o want_v of_o skill_n to_o stick_v always_o to_o the_o conclusion_n and_o question_n yet_o in_o spiritual_a temptation_n and_o trial_n this_o be_v sound_a divinity_n always_o to_o hold_v god_n promise_n and_o to_o stick_v fast_o to_o that_o conclusion_n and_o not_o to_o follow_v satan_n in_o his_o argument_n neither_o suffer_v he_o by_o any_o mean_n to_o drive_v we_o from_o it_o further_o in_o that_o this_o fact_n of_o offer_v up_o isaac_n be_v only_a abraham_n trial_n we_o may_v observe_v that_o it_o do_v not_o make_v he_o just_a before_o god_n but_o only_o serve_v to_o prove_v his_o faith_n and_o to_o declare_v he_o to_o be_v iust._n and_o therefore_o whereas_o saint_n james_n say_v jam._n 2.21_o that_o abraham_n be_v justify_v through_o work_n when_o he_o offer_v his_o son_n isaac_n upon_o the_o altar_n his_o meaning_n be_v that_o abraham_n do_v manifest_v himself_o to_o be_v just_a before_o god_n by_o offer_v up_o his_o son_n and_o not_o that_o by_o this_o fact_n abraham_n of_o a_o sinner_n be_v make_v just_a or_o of_o a_o righteous_a man_n be_v make_v more_o just_a for_o indeed_o good_a work_n do_v not_o make_v a_o man_n just_a but_o only_o do_v prove_v and_o declare_v he_o to_o be_v just_a three_o god_n give_v abraham_n this_o commandment_n abraham_n kill_v thy_o son_n but_o yet_o he_o conceal_v from_o he_o what_o be_v his_o purpose_n and_o intent_n herein_o for_o god_n mean_v not_o that_o abraham_n shall_v kill_v his_o son_n indeed_o but_o only_o to_o try_v what_o he_o will_v do_v whether_o he_o will_v still_o believe_v and_o obey_v he_o or_o not_o where_o we_o see_v that_o god_n who_o be_v truth_n itself_o reveal_v to_o abraham_n his_o will_n but_o not_o his_o whole_a will_n whence_o arise_v this_o question_n whether_o it_o be_v lawful_a for_o a_o man_n according_a to_o this_o example_n of_o god_n when_o he_o tell_v a_o thing_n to_o another_o to_o conceal_v his_o meaning_n in_o whole_a or_o in_o part_n for_o answer_v hereunto_o we_o must_v know_v there_o be_v two_o extremity_n both_o which_o must_v be_v avoid_v in_o this_o case_n 1_o that_o a_o man_n must_v always_o express_v all_o that_o be_v in_o his_o mind_n 2_o that_o in_o some_o case_n a_o man_n may_v speak_v one_o thing_n and_o think_v another_o speak_v contrary_a to_o his_o meaning_n but_o this_o late_a be_v no_o way_n lawful_a and_o the_o other_o be_v not_o always_o necessary_a we_o therefore_o must_v hold_v a_o mean_a between_o both_o to_o wit_n that_o in_o some_o case_n a_o man_n may_v conceal_v his_o whole_a meaning_n say_v nothing_o though_o they_o be_v examine_v namely_o when_o the_o conceal_n thereof_o do_v direct_o stand_v with_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o good_a of_o his_o brother_n thus_o godly_a martyr_n have_v do_v for_o be_v examine_v before_o tyrant_n where_o and_o with_o who_o they_o worship_v god_n they_o have_v choose_v rather_o to_o die_v than_o to_o disclose_v their_o brethren_n and_o this_o conceal_n of_o their_o mind_n be_v lawful_a because_o it_o touch_v immediate_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o good_a of_o his_o church_n second_o a_o man_n may_v conceal_v part_n of_o his_o mind_n but_o that_o must_v be_v also_o with_o these_o two_o caveat_n first_o that_o it_o serve_v for_o god_n glory_n second_o that_o it_o be_v for_o the_o good_a of_o gods_n church_n thus_o do_v jonas_n conceal_v the_o condition_n of_o mercy_n from_o the_o ninivites_fw-la when_o he_o preach_v destruction_n unto_o they_o say_v within_o forty_o day_n and_o niniveh_n shall_v be_v destroy_v though_o it_o be_v evident_a by_o the_o event_n that_o it_o be_v god_n will_v they_o shall_v be_v spare_v if_o they_o do_v repent_v but_o that_o condition_n god_n will_v have_v conceal_v because_o it_o will_v not_o have_v be_v for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o ninivites_fw-la to_o have_v know_v it_o since_o the_o conceal_n of_o it_o cause_v they_o more_o speedy_o and_o earnest_o to_o repent_v but_o out_o of_o these_o case_n a_o man_n be_v call_v to_o speak_v must_v declare_v the_o whole_a truth_n or_o else_o he_o sin_n great_o against_o god_n commandment_n forsake_v the_o property_n of_o the_o godly_a psal._n 15.2_o and_o thus_o much_o of_o the_o first_o impediment_n of_o abraham_n faith_n the_o second_o impediment_n to_o abraham_n faith_n be_v contain_v in_o these_o word_n offer_v his_o only_o beget_v son_n we_o know_v that_o the_o love_n of_o parent_n descend_v to_o every_o child_n natural_o but_o especial_o to_o the_o only_o beget_v upon_o who_o be_v but_o one_o all_o that_o be_v bestow_v which_o when_o there_o be_v many_o be_v divide_v among_o they_o and_o therefore_o in_o all_o reason_n this_o may_v great_o hinder_v abraham_n obedience_n that_o god_n shall_v command_v he_o to_o offer_v his_o son_n yea_o his_o only_a beget_v son_n but_o yet_o by_o faith_n he_o overcom_v this_o temptation_n break_v through_o this_o impediment_n and_o offer_v up_o his_o only_a son_n where_o we_o note_v that_o true_a faith_n will_v make_v a_o man_n overcome_v his_o own_o nature_n love_n be_v the_o strong_a affection_n in_o the_o heart_n especial_o from_o the_o father_n to_o the_o child_n even_o his_o only_a child_n and_o a_o man_n will_v think_v it_o impossible_a to_o overcome_v this_o love_n in_o the_o parent_n unless_o it_o be_v by_o death_n there_o be_v no_o cause_n to_o the_o contrary_a in_o the_o child_n but_o yet_o behold_v abraham_n by_o faith_n subdue_v this_o special_a love_n which_o he_o bear_v to_o his_o only_a child_n god_n himself_o testify_v of_o abraham_n that_o his_o love_n to_o isaac_n be_v great_a gen._n 22.2_o and_o yet_o by_o faith_n he_o overcom_v this_o his_o love_n this_o point_n be_v careful_o to_o be_v mark_v as_o declare_v the_o great_a power_n of_o true_a save_a faith_n for_o if_o faith_n can_v overcome_v create_v and_o sanctify_a nature_n then_o undoubted_o the_o power_n thereof_o will_v enable_v man_n to_o overcome_v the_o corruption_n of_o his_o nature_n and_o the_o temptation_n of_o the_o world_n for_o it_o be_v a_o hard_a thing_n to_o overcome_v our_o nature_n which_o we_o have_v by_o creation_n than_o to_o subdue_v the_o corruption_n thereof_o which_o come_v in_o by_o transgression_n and_o hence_o such_o excellent_a thing_n be_v speak_v of_o faith_n it_o be_v call_v the_o victory_n that_o overcom_v the_o world_n 1._o john_n 5.4_o and_o god_n be_v say_v by_o faith_n to_o purify_v the_o heart_n faith_n strengthen_v the_o heart_n act_v 15.9_o and_o through_o faith_n we_o be_v keep_v by_o the_o power_n of_o god_n unto_o salvation_n 1._o pet._n 1.5_o be_v this_o the_o power_n of_o faith_n to_o overcome_v nature_n and_o the_o corruption_n thereof_o then_o howsoever_o religion_n be_v receive_v and_o faith_n profess_v general_o among_o we_o yet_o undoubted_o there_o be_v little_a true_a faith_n in_o the_o world_n for_o even_o among_o the_o professor_n thereof_o how_o many_o be_v there_o that_o subdue_v the_o sin_n of_o their_o life_n and_o suppress_v the_o work_n of_o their_o wicked_a nature_n sure_o very_o few_o now_o where_o corruption_n bear_v sway_v and_o sin_n reign_v there_o sound_a faith_n can_v be_v for_o if_o faith_n be_v sound_a in_o man_n it_o will_v purify_v
whereof_o we_o must_v all_o labour_n diligent_o above_o all_o other_o thing_n to_o get_v true_a faith_n in_o christ_n that_o so_o we_o may_v have_v approbation_n at_o god_n hand_n without_o which_o there_o be_v no_o salvation_n to_o be_v hope_v for_o second_o here_o also_o learn_v the_o right_a way_n to_o get_v testimony_n approbation_n and_o credit_n with_o man_n a_o thing_n whereof_o many_o be_v exceed_v glad_a and_o which_o the_o child_n of_o god_n must_v not_o contemn_v now_o the_o way_n be_v this_o he_o must_v first_o labour_n to_o get_v approbation_n at_o gods_n hand_n which_o indeed_o he_o can_v do_v any_o other_o way_n save_v only_o by_o a_o true_a and_o lively_a faith_n as_o we_o have_v hear_v before_o now_o the_o lord_n god_n approve_v of_o he_o he_o have_v the_o heart_n of_o all_o man_n in_o his_o hand_n incline_v they_o whither_o he_o will_v and_o if_o it_o do_v stand_v with_o his_o glory_n he_o will_v cause_v they_o to_o like_v and_o to_o speak_v well_o of_o he_o that_o do_v believe_v many_o indeed_o get_v great_a applause_n in_o the_o world_n which_o little_a regard_n true_a faith_n but_o in_o the_o end_n this_o their_o glory_n and_o applause_n will_v be_v their_o shame_n for_o they_o that_o honour_v i_o will_v i_o honour_v say_v the_o lord_n but_o he_o that_o despise_v i_o shall_v be_v despise_v 1._o sam._n 2.30_o last_o whereas_o the_o holy_a ghost_n say_v that_o all_o these_o worthy_a man_n obtain_v testimony_n of_o god_n and_o yet_o receive_v not_o the_o promise_n we_o be_v hereby_o teach_v that_o we_o which_o now_o live_v in_o the_o church_n be_v much_o more_o bind_v in_o conscience_n to_o believe_v than_o they_o that_o live_v in_o the_o old_a testament_n for_o we_o have_v receive_v the_o promise_n of_o christ_n incarnation_n they_o receive_v it_o not_o and_o yet_o believe_v wherefore_o in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n let_v we_o labour_v for_o true_a faith_n but_o some_o will_v say_v what_o shall_v we_o hear_v so_o much_o of_o faith_n we_o do_v all_o believe_v answ._n indeed_o we_o say_v so_o much_o with_o our_o mouth_n but_o it_o be_v a_o rare_a thing_n to_o find_v true_a and_o sound_a faith_n in_o the_o heart_n for_o grosâ—e_n and_o palpable_a ignorance_n abound_v every_o where_o and_o yet_o man_n will_v needs_o be_v good_a believer_n which_o be_v a_o thing_n impossible_a for_o how_o shall_v faith_n be_v without_o knowledge_n and_o as_o man_n be_v ignorant_a so_o they_o have_v no_o care_n to_o learn_v nor_o to_o get_v knowledge_n that_o so_o they_o may_v come_v by_o true_a faith_n their_o heart_n be_v whole_o take_v up_o with_o the_o world_n for_o matter_n of_o profit_n and_o delight_n that_o they_o can_v spare_v no_o time_n to_o seek_v for_o this_o precious_a gift_n of_o faith_n again_o many_o have_v knowledge_n with_o who_o true_a faith_n be_v rare_a for_o faith_n purify_v the_o heart_n it_o be_v join_v with_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o show_v itself_o by_o obedience_n through_o love_n now_o to_o leave_v the_o heart_n to_o god_n where_o almost_o be_v the_o man_n that_o walk_v answerable_a to_o his_o knowledge_n may_v we_o not_o true_o say_v of_o many_o that_o as_o the_o word_n come_v in_o at_o the_o one_o ear_n it_o go_v out_o at_o the_o other_o and_o among_o those_o which_o learn_v and_o bear_v away_o something_o there_o be_v little_a care_n to_o practise_v it_o in_o life_n but_o we_o must_v know_v that_o if_o we_o will_v be_v approve_v of_o god_n we_o must_v believe_v now_o so_o long_o as_o we_o remain_v ignorant_a or_o else_o have_v knowledge_n do_v not_o join_v practice_n therewith_o in_o obedience_n from_o a_o good_a conscience_n undoubted_o we_o have_v no_o spark_n of_o true_a faith_n in_o us._n we_o may_v make_v a_o show_n of_o faith_n and_o so_o bear_v the_o world_n in_o hand_n we_o believe_v but_o certain_o this_o will_v prove_v a_o very_a dead_a faith_n and_o in_o the_o end_n and_o finish_v of_o all_o appear_v to_o be_v nothing_o but_o bare_a lip-faith_n and_o mere_a presumption_n now_o to_o conclude_v this_o point_n we_o must_v know_v that_o unless_o we_o get_v true_a faith_n as_o these_o believer_n have_v which_o we_o must_v show_v by_o good_a fruit_n as_o they_o do_v even_o they_o shall_v rise_v up_o in_o judgement_n against_o we_o to_o condemn_v we_o at_o the_o last_o day_n for_o they_o believe_v though_o they_o have_v not_o the_o ground_n of_o faith_n so_o lay_v before_o they_o as_o we_o have_v wherefore_o let_v they_o that_o want_v knowledge_n labour_n for_o it_o and_o they_o which_o have_v it_o let_v they_o join_v obedience_n with_o their_o knowledge_n that_o the_o faith_n of_o their_o heart_n may_v be_v see_v by_o the_o fruit_n of_o their_o life_n for_o true_a faith_n can_v be_v hide_v but_o will_v break_v out_o in_o good_a work_n verse_n 40._o god_n provide_v a_o better_a thing_n for_o we_o that_o they_o without_o we_o shall_v not_o be_v make_v perfect_a because_o some_o man_n may_v much_o marvel_v that_o such_o man_n as_o receive_a testimony_n of_o god_n for_o their_o faith_n shall_v not_o yet_o receive_v the_o promise_n therefore_o here_o the_o holy_a ghost_n render_v a_o reason_n thereof_o to_o wit_n the_o good_a pleasure_n of_o god_n appoint_v that_o christ_n shall_v be_v incarnate_a at_o such_o a_o time_n as_o be_v most_o convenient_a for_o the_o perfect_a consummation_n of_o the_o whole_a church_n consist_v of_o gentile_n as_o well_o as_o jew_n for_o though_o these_o ancient_a believer_n be_v in_o time_n long_o before_o we_o yet_o god_n provide_v christ_n incarnation_n so_o fit_o for_o we_o that_o they_o without_o we_o shall_v not_o have_v perfect_a consummation_n in_o glory_n the_o exposition_n god_n provide_v a_o better_a thing_n for_o us._n the_o word_n in_o the_o original_n translate_v provide_v signify_v proper_o foreseeing_a wherein_o be_v likewise_o include_v god_n decree_n and_o ordination_n now_o this_o we_o must_v know_v that_o it_o be_v a_o peculiar_a prerogative_n belong_v to_o the_o true_a god_n alone_o to_o be_v able_a to_o foresee_v thing_n to_o come_v and_o that_o many_o thousand_o year_n before_o no_o creature_n of_o himself_o can_v do_v it_o and_o yet_o it_o be_v true_a that_o this_o property_n to_o foresee_v be_v ascribe_v unto_o god_n not_o proper_o but_o in_o regard_n of_o our_o capacity_n for_o if_o we_o speak_v of_o god_n proper_o god_n can_v be_v say_v to_o foresee_v any_o thing_n because_o all_o thing_n be_v present_a to_o he_o whether_o past_a or_o to_o come_v this_o prescience_n or_o foreknowledge_n in_o god_n put_v a_o difference_n between_o the_o true_a god_n and_o all_o false_a god_n yea_o between_o the_o true_a god_n and_o all_o creature_n for_o the_o true_a god_n foresee_v all_o thing_n that_o be_v to_o come_v so_o can_v no_o creature_n do_v indeed_o some_o creature_n foresee_v and_o foretell_v some_o thing_n yet_o herein_o they_o come_v short_a of_o the_o divine_a property_n for_o god_n foresee_v all_o thing_n by_o himself_o without_o sign_n or_o cause_n or_o outward_a mean_n but_o creature_n only_o foresee_v some_o thing_n not_o of_o themselves_o but_o by_o mean_n of_o sign_n and_o outward_a cause_n or_o by_o revelation_n from_o god_n otherwise_o can_v no_o creature_n foresee_v thing_n to_o come_v now_o as_o we_o say_v before_o this_o foresight_n in_o god_n include_v his_o decree_n and_o ordination_n for_o therefore_o do_v these_o thing_n so_o come_v to_o pass_v because_o god_n ordain_v they_o whereby_o we_o see_v that_o god_n prescience_n of_o foreknowledge_n be_v not_o idle_a but_o operative_a and_o join_v with_o his_o will_n for_o math._n 10.29_o 30_o a_o hair_n can_v fall_v from_o our_o head_n nor_o a_o sparrow_n light_n upon_o the_o ground_n without_o his_o will_n as_o all_o thing_n in_o time_n come_v to_o pass_v so_o god_n before_o all_o world_n will_v that_o be_v decree_v and_o appoint_v they_o and_o under_o this_o large_a extent_n of_o god_n will_v or_o decree_n we_o must_v include_v the_o sinful_a action_n of_o man_n for_o god_n do_v not_o bare_o foresee_v they_o but_o decree_v the_o be_v of_o they_o and_o so_o will_v they_o after_o a_o sort_n though_o not_o to_o be_v do_v by_o himself_o yet_o by_o other_o when_o judas_n betray_v christ_n and_o pilate_n with_o the_o wicked_a jew_n condemn_v and_o revile_v he_o they_o sin_v grievous_o &_o yet_o herein_o they_o do_v nothing_o but_o that_o which_o god_n hand_n and_o counsel_n have_v determine_v before_o to_o be_v do_v this_o point_n well_o consider_v confute_v their_o opinion_n who_o indeed_o enlarge_v god_n prescience_n or_o before_o knowledge_n over_o all_o thing_n both_o good_a and_o evil_a but_o yet_o exclude_v sin_n from_o without_o the_o compass_n of_o his_o decree_n and_o ordination_n but_o here_o we_o see_v god_n foresight_n include_v his_o decree_n and_o nothing_o
and_o we_o seem_v present_o to_o enjoy_v they_o we_o can_v enjoy_v any_o of_o they_o full_o but_o save_v faith_n have_v this_o power_n to_o give_v they_o all_o a_o present_a be_v in_o our_o heart_n and_o we_o such_o a_o real_a possession_n of_o they_o as_o great_o delight_v a_o christian_a soul_n insomuch_o as_o the_o feel_n of_o the_o sweetness_n of_o this_o glory_n though_o it_o be_v to_o come_v overwhelm_v the_o feel_n of_o a_o worldly_a misery_n though_o it_o be_v present_a four_o it_o be_v add_v and_o the_o evidence_n this_o word_n signify_v and_o teach_v we_o two_o thing_n concern_v faith_n 1._o faith_n be_v a_o evidence_n etc._n etc._n that_o be_v faith_n so_o convince_v the_o mind_n understanding_n and_o judgement_n as_o that_o it_o can_v but_o must_v needs_o yea_o it_o compel_v it_o by_o force_n of_o reason_n unanswerable_a to_o believe_v the_o promise_n of_o god_n certain_o 2._o it_o be_v a_o evidence_n that_o be_v whereas_o life_n everlasting_a and_o all_o other_o thing_n hope_v for_o be_v invisible_a and_o be_v never_o see_v of_o any_o believer_n since_o the_o world_n begin_v this_o save_a faith_n have_v this_o power_n and_o property_n to_o take_v that_o thing_n in_o itself_o invisible_a and_o never_o yet_o see_v and_o so_o lively_a to_o represent_v it_o to_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o believer_n and_o to_o the_o eye_n of_o his_o mind_n as_o that_o after_o a_o sort_n he_o present_o see_v and_o enjoy_v that_o invisible_a thing_n and_o rejoice_v in_o that_o sight_n and_o enjoy_v of_o it_o and_o so_o the_o judgement_n be_v not_o only_o convince_v that_o such_o a_o thing_n shall_v come_v to_o pass_v though_o it_o be_v yet_o to_o come_v but_o the_o mind_n as_o far_o as_o god_n word_n have_v reveal_v and_o as_o it_o be_v able_a conceive_v of_o that_o thing_n as_o be_v real_o present_a to_o the_o view_n of_o it_o let_v one_o example_n serve_v for_o all_o life_n everlasting_a be_v a_o thing_n hope_v for_o now_o faith_n not_o only_o by_o infallible_a argument_n ground_v upon_o the_o word_n and_o promise_n of_o god_n convince_v a_o man_n judgement_n that_o it_o shall_v come_v to_o pass_v insomuch_o as_o he_o dare_v say_v that_o he_o know_v as_o certain_o there_o be_v a_o life_n everlasting_a as_o that_o he_o live_v and_o move_v but_o this_o faith_n also_o as_o much_o as_o god_n word_n have_v reveal_v and_o as_o far_o forth_o as_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n be_v able_a to_o conceive_v of_o it_o so_o represent_v this_o life_n everlasting_a to_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o soul_n as_o that_o the_o soul_n seem_v to_o apprehend_v and_o enjoy_v this_o life_n everlasting_a yea_o &_o often_o in_o such_o measure_n as_o that_o he_o contemn_v the_o world_n and_o all_o the_o present_a felicity_n of_o it_o in_o comparison_n of_o that_o measure_n of_o the_o joy_n thereof_o which_o faith_n represent_v to_o his_o soul_n and_o thus_o faith_n make_v that_o present_a which_o be_v absent_a and_o make_v that_o manifest_a and_o visible_a which_o in_o itself_o be_v invisible_a invisible_a to_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o body_n it_o make_v visible_a to_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o soul_n the_o sight_n of_o which_o eye_n be_v both_o give_v and_o continue_v and_o daily_o sharpen_v by_o save_v faith_n and_o thus_o faith_n be_v a_o most_o excellent_a evidence_n of_o thing_n not_o see_v so_o then_o the_o whole_a sum_n of_o this_o first_o effect_n be_v brief_o thus_o much_o whereas_o thing_n to_o be_v believe_v as_o perfection_n of_o sanctification_n resurrection_n glorification_n etc._n etc._n be_v not_o yet_o see_v neither_o can_v be_v in_o that_o they_o be_v not_o yet_o come_v to_o pass_v yet_o if_o a_o man_n have_v grace_n certain_o to_o believe_v the_o promise_n of_o god_n these_o thing_n shall_v have_v a_o be_v to_o his_o soul_n in_o that_o both_o his_o judgement_n know_v assure_o they_o shall_v come_v to_o pass_v and_o his_o soul_n in_o most_o lively_a and_o joyful_a representation_n seem_v to_o enjoy_v they_o hitherto_o of_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o first_o effect_n now_o in_o the_o second_o place_n let_v we_o see_v what_o instruction_n this_o first_o effect_n thus_o unfold_v do_v minister_v unto_o us._n first_o whereas_o faith_n give_v a_o substance_n and_o be_v to_o thing_n that_o be_v not_o we_o learn_v that_o the_o father_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n that_o live_v afore_o the_o incarnation_n of_o christ_n be_v true_o partaker_n of_o the_o body_n and_o blood_n of_o christ._n if_o any_o allege_v that_o this_o be_v strange_a consider_v that_o christ_n have_v they_o no_o body_n &_o blood_n neither_o have_v he_o any_o until_o the_o incarnation_n &_o how_o they_o can_v they_o receive_v that_o which_o they_o be_v not_o i_o grant_v it_o be_v true_a they_o they_o have_v no_o be_v and_o yet_o the_o father_n receive_v they_o but_o how_o can_v this_o be_v i_o answer_v by_o the_o wonderful_a power_n of_o save_v faith_n which_o make_v thing_n that_o be_v not_o in_o nature_n to_o have_v in_o some_o sort_n a_o be_v &_o subsistence_n and_o so_o be_v christ_n though_o he_o be_v to_o come_v present_v to_o the_o believer_n of_o the_o old_a time_n for_o apoc._n 13.8_o christ_n be_v a_o lamb_n slay_v from_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o world_n that_o be_v slay_v as_o well_o then_o as_o now_o and_o that_o not_o only_o in_o the_o counsel_n &_o decree_n of_o god_n whereby_o he_o be_v bear_v &_o slay_v in_o all_o time_n and_o place_n nor_o only_a in_o regard_n of_o the_o eternal_a power_n efficacy_n and_o merit_n of_o his_o death_n but_o also_o even_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o believer_n who_o faith_n make_v that_o that_o be_v local_o absent_a after_o a_o sort_n true_o and_o real_o present_a even_o so_o also_o be_v christ_n a_o lamb_n slay_v even_o from_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o world_n see_v a_o plain_a demonstration_n hereof_o in_o joh._n 8.5.6_o abraham_n see_v i_o say_v christ_n and_o rejoice_v how_o can_v this_o be_v when_o as_o christ_n be_v not_o bear_v of_o 1000_o year_n after_o ans._n this_o can_v not_o be_v in_o reason_n but_o it_o be_v indeed_o to_o abraham_n faith_n whereby_o he_o see_v christ_n more_o lively_a and_o more_o to_o his_o joy_n &_o consolation_n so_o many_o 100_o year_n afore_o he_o be_v they_o many_o which_o live_v in_o christ_n time_n and_o see_v he_o and_o hear_v he_o and_o converâ—ed_v with_o he_o for_o they_o live_v with_o he_o yet_o be_v as_o good_a as_o absent_v from_o he_o because_o they_o believe_v not_o in_o he_o and_o abraham_n though_o christ_n be_v so_o far_o from_o he_o yet_o by_o his_o faith_n be_v present_a with_o he_o again_o 1._o cor._n 10.3_o the_o ancient_a believe_v israelite_n eat_v the_o same_o spiritual_a bread_n and_o drink_v the_o same_o spiritual_a rock_n and_o that_o rock_n be_v christ_n how_o can_v they_o eat_v and_o drink_n christ_n so_o long_o afore_o he_o be_v i_o answer_v they_o do_v it_o by_o reason_n of_o that_o wonderful_a power_n of_o faith_n which_o make_v a_o thing_n absent_a present_a to_o the_o believer_n by_o that_o faith_n they_o receive_v christ_n as_o lively_o as_o effectual_o as_o much_o to_o their_o profit_n and_o comfort_n as_o we_o do_v since_o his_o come_n if_o any_o man_n ask_v how_o can_v their_o faith_n apprehend_v that_o that_o then_o be_v not_o i_o answer_v by_o give_v they_o interest_n &_o title_n to_o it_o and_o so_o the_o father_n be_v say_v by_o faith_n to_o have_v receive_v christ_n because_o their_o faith_n give_v they_o right_a and_o title_n in_o christ_n and_o in_o their_o heart_n they_o feel_v the_o efficacy_n of_o his_o death_n &_o resurrection_n whereby_o they_o die_v to_o sin_n and_o be_v renew_v in_o holiness_n as_o well_o as_o we_o be_v now_o by_o the_o same_o efficacy_n second_o whereas_o faith_n make_v thing_n absent_a present_a here_o they_o be_v confute_v that_o teach_v that_o the_o lord_n supper_n be_v no_o sacrament_n unless_o the_o body_n &_o blood_n of_o christ_n be_v either_o true_o turn_v into_o the_o bread_n &_o wine_n or_o at_o least_o be_v in_o or_o about_o the_o 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it_o and_o this_o be_v the_o name_n which_o common_o be_v get_v in_o the_o world_n because_o man_n first_o seek_v not_o a_o good_a name_n with_o god_n but_o that_o good_a name_n which_o be_v obtain_v by_o faith_n will_v stand_v &_o continue_v all_o a_o man_n life_n and_o at_o his_o death_n leave_v behind_o it_o a_o sweet_a perfume_n &_o abide_v for_o ever_o in_o the_o world_n to_o come_v second_o this_o maintain_v the_o excellency_n of_o our_o religion_n against_o atheist_n and_o all_o enemy_n of_o it_o which_o esteem_n &_o call_v it_o a_o base_a &_o contemptible_a religion_n &_o of_o which_o can_v follow_v no_o credit_n nor_o estimation_n but_o see_v their_o malice_n be_v here_o control_v our_o religion_n be_v a_o most_o glorious_a &_o excellent_a profession_n it_o be_v the_o high_a way_n to_o get_v true_a credit_n &_o estimation_n it_o make_v a_o man_n honourable_a in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n &_o man_n for_o by_o it_o our_o elder_n obtain_v a_o good_a report_n which_o continue_v fresh_a to_o this_o day_n in_o the_o four_o place_n be_v they_o well_o report_v of_o for_o their_o faith_n therefore_o their_o faith_n be_v not_o hide_v in_o their_o heart_n but_o manifest_v in_o their_o life_n for_o the_o world_n can_v see_v nor_o commend_v they_o for_o their_o faith_n but_o for_o the_o practice_n of_o faith_n here_o it_o be_v plain_a that_o man_n must_v not_o be_v content_a to_o keep_v their_o faith_n close_o in_o their_o heart_n but_o they_o must_v exercise_v the_o fruit_n of_o it_o in_o the_o world_n and_o then_o both_o these_o together_o will_v make_v a_o man_n true_o commendable_a thy_o faith_n approve_v thou_o unto_o god_n but_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o be_v that_o that_o honour_v thou_o and_o thy_o profession_n in_o the_o world_n last_o in_o that_o faith_n be_v that_o which_o approve_v our_o elder_n unto_o god_n here_o be_v a_o storehouse_n of_o comfort_n for_o all_o true_a professor_n of_o this_o faith_n be_v thou_o poor_a thy_o faith_n do_v make_v thou_o rich_a in_o god_n be_v thou_o simple_a and_o of_o mean_a reach_n thy_o faith_n be_v true_a wisdom_n before_o god_n be_v thou_o any_o way_n deform_v faith_n make_v thou_o beautiful_a unto_o god_n be_v thou_o weak_a feeble_a or_o sick_a thy_o faith_n do_v make_v thou_o strong_a in_o god_n be_v thou_o base_a in_o the_o world_n and_o of_o no_o account_n thy_o faith_n make_v thou_o honourable_a in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n and_o his_o holy_a angel_n thus_o thou_o be_v poor_a and_o foolish_a and_o deform_v and_o sick_a and_o base_a in_o the_o world_n but_o mark_v how_o god_n have_v recompense_v thou_o he_o have_v give_v thou_o faith_n whereby_o thou_o be_v rich_a and_o beautiful_a &_o wise_a and_o strong_a &_o honourable_a in_o heaven_n with_o god_n say_v therefore_o with_o david_n the_o lot_n be_v fall_v unto_o thou_o in_o a_o fair_a ground_n and_o thou_o have_v a_o goodly_a heritage_n namely_o 16.6_o thy_o faith_n which_o thou_o will_v not_o change_v for_o all_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o world_n faith_n be_v the_o true_a riches_n the_o sound_a strength_n the_o last_a beauty_n the_o true_a wisdom_n the_o true_a honour_n of_o a_o christian_a man_n therefore_o take_v thyself_o 10000_o time_n more_o beholden_a unto_o god_n then_o if_o he_o have_v give_v thou_o the_o uncertain_a riches_n the_o crafty_a and_o yet_o foolish_a wisdom_n the_o decay_a strength_n the_o vanish_v beauty_n the_o transitory_a honour_n of_o this_o world_n if_o thou_o have_v true_a faith_n thou_o be_v sure_a to_o have_v many_o enemy_n 1._o the_o wicked_a of_o the_o world_n will_v never_o brook_v thou_o but_o open_o or_o privy_o hate_v &_o hurt_v thou_o then_o the_o devil_n be_v thy_o swear_a enemy_n how_o can_v thou_o deal_v with_o so_o powerful_a a_o enemy_n and_o all_o his_o wicked_a instrument_n here_o be_v sound_a comfort_n if_o thou_o have_v faith_n thou_o have_v god_n thy_o friend_n labour_v therefore_o for_o this_o true_a faith_n and_o then_o care_v not_o for_o the_o devil_n and_o all_o his_o power_n night_n and_o day_n sleep_v and_o wake_v by_o land_n &_o sea_n thou_o be_v safe_a and_o secure_a the_o devil_n can_v hurt_v thou_o thy_o faith_n make_v thou_o accept_v of_o god_n and_o bring_v thou_o within_o the_o compass_n of_o his_o protection_n that_o same_o little_a spark_n of_o faith_n which_o be_v in_o so_o narrow_a a_o compass_n as_o thy_o heart_n be_v strong_a they_o all_o the_o power_n and_o malice_n of_o sathan_n as_o for_o the_o malice_n which_o his_o instrument_n wicked_a man_n in_o this_o world_n show_v against_o thou_o in_o mock_n and_o abuse_n much_o less_o care_n for_o they_o for_o their_o nature_n be_v to_o speak_v evil_a and_o can_v do_v otherwise_o look_v not_o therefore_o at_o they_o but_o look_v up_o into_o heaven_n by_o the_o eye_n of_o thy_o soul_n where_o thy_o faith_n make_v thou_o belove_v and_o approve_v of_o god_n himself_o and_o honourable_a in_o the_o presence_n of_o his_o holy_a angel_n and_o thus_o much_o of_o the_o second_o action_n or_o 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a_o man_n embrace_v christian_a religion_n or_o whereby_o a_o man_n believe_v the_o word_n of_o god_n in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o law_n and_o the_o gospel_n to_o be_v true_a my_o reason_n be_v because_o a_o man_n that_o never_o have_v justify_v and_o save_v faith_n and_o be_v no_o member_n of_o the_o catholic_a church_n nor_o child_n of_o god_n may_v have_v this_o gift_n to_o believe_v that_o god_n by_o his_o word_n make_v the_o world_n of_o nothing_o therefore_o i_o think_v that_o this_o be_v a_o action_n of_o a_o general_a and_o not_o of_o save_v faith_n we_o understand_v that_o be_v whereas_o there_o be_v many_o thing_n beyond_o the_o reach_n of_o reason_n and_o therefore_o by_o reason_n can_v be_v apprehend_v or_o understand_v yet_o by_o virtue_n of_o this_o faith_n a_o man_n be_v bring_v to_o understand_v they_o and_o to_o believe_v they_o to_o be_v true_a now_o than_o whereas_o general_a faith_n bring_v understand_v of_o many_o thing_n which_o reason_n can_v reach_v unto_o here_o such_o as_o be_v student_n in_o humane_a learning_n &_o which_o labour_n to_o attain_v to_o the_o deepness_n and_o perfection_n of_o it_o be_v teach_v with_o their_o travel_n in_o humane_a study_n to_o have_v care_n to_o join_v faith_n and_o knowledge_n of_o religion_n for_o there_o be_v many_o thing_n which_o our_o understanding_n by_o reason_n can_v conceive_v and_o many_o truth_n which_o philosophy_n can_v reach_v unto_o nay_o many_o also_o which_o it_o deny_v but_o faith_n be_v able_a to_o persuade_v and_o demonstrate_v they_o all_o and_o it_o enlighten_v the_o mind_n and_o rectify_v the_o judgement_n when_o as_o philosophy_n have_v leave_v the_o mind_n in_o darkness_n and_o the_o judgement_n in_o error_n now_o in_o who_o sound_a knowledge_n in_o philosophy_n and_o this_o faith_n in_o religion_n do_v concur_v together_o he_o be_v a_o man_n of_o a_o most_o rectify_a judgement_n and_o of_o a_o deep_a reach_n in_o the_o great_a matter_n but_o separate_a faith_n from_o humane_a knowledge_n and_o he_o will_v stumble_v at_o many_o truth_n though_o he_o have_v the_o wit_n of_o all_o the_o philosopher_n in_o his_o own_o head_n for_o exsample_n that_o god_n shall_v make_v the_o world_n of_o nothing_o that_o it_o shall_v have_v beginning_n &_o end_v that_o god_n shall_v be_v eternal_a and_o not_o the_o world_n that_o man_n soul_n be_v create_v be_v immortal_a these_o &_o many_o other_o truth_n reason_n can_v see_v &_o therefore_o philosophy_n will_v not_o admit_v but_o join_v faith_n to_o it_o &_o then_o that_o crooked_a understanding_n be_v rectify_v &_o make_v to_o believe_v it_o it_o be_v therefore_o good_a counsel_n to_o join_v both_o these_o together_o religion_n hinder_v not_o humane_a learning_n as_o some_o fond_o think_v but_o be_v
order_n which_o god_n make_v and_o all_o creature_n but_o for_o we_o will_v have_v keep_v till_o this_o day_n but_o the_o common_a practice_n be_v contrary_a as_o i_o will_v prove_v in_o particular_n god_n make_v man_n body_n pure_a and_o holy_a &_o therefore_o it_o have_v no_o need_n to_o be_v cover_v but_o with_o sin_n come_v shame_n 3.21_o &_o thence_o come_v it_o that_o god_n give_v we_o apparel_n to_o cover_v that_o shame_n that_o sin_n have_v bring_v upon_o we_o so_o oft_o therefore_o as_o a_o man_n put_v on_o his_o apparel_n he_o shall_v be_v humble_v &_o ashamed_a by_o it_o and_o think_v thus_o with_o himself_o this_o be_v not_o so_o at_o the_o first_o adam_n body_n be_v glorious_a whence_o come_v this_o ignominy_n &_o shame_n which_o we_o must_v cover_v with_o apparel_n it_o come_v from_o my_o sin_n therefore_o so_o often_o as_o a_o man_n put_v it_o on_o so_o oft_o shall_v he_o be_v quite_o ashamed_a of_o himself_o which_o have_v bring_v this_o shame_n upon_o himself_o so_o as_o now_o he_o must_v needs_o have_v a_o cloak_n to_o cover_v his_o shame_n but_o do_v man_n make_v this_o end_n of_o their_o apparel_n nay_o rather_o they_o make_v it_o a_o banner_n to_o display_v their_o pride_n and_o vanity_n and_o so_o far_o be_v many_o from_o be_v ashamed_a of_o it_o as_o that_o they_o be_v contrariwise_o proud_a of_o it_o but_o this_o be_v as_o abominable_a &_o curse_a and_o senseless_a a_o pride_n as_o if_o the_o prisoner_n shall_v be_v proud_a of_o his_o bolt_n &_o fetter_n which_o be_v sign_n of_o his_o misdemeanour_n for_o what_o be_v thy_o apparel_n make_v the_o best_a of_o it_o it_o be_v but_o a_o beautiful_a cloak_n of_o thy_o filthy_a shame_n then_o as_o bolt_n &_o fetter_n be_v burdenous_a and_o shameful_a though_o they_o be_v of_o gold_n so_o be_v the_o cloak_n of_o thy_o shame_n thy_o apparel_n though_o it_o be_v silk_n silver_n or_o gold_n for_o we_o shall_v not_o be_v ashamed_a only_o of_o ordinary_a apparel_n or_o base_a but_o even_o of_o the_o most_o gorgeous_a know_v that_o once_o we_o have_v a_o glory_n of_o our_o own_o far_o above_o all_o the_o glory_n of_o apparel_n and_o the_o ignominy_n that_o sin_n have_v bring_v upon_o we_o be_v great_a than_o this_o glory_n of_o apparel_n can_v take_v away_o here_o i_o deny_v not_o the_o use_n of_o gorgeous_a apparel_n to_o those_o to_o who_o it_o belong_v but_o i_o say_v to_o rich_a man_n who_o by_o their_o ability_n to_o man_n in_o authority_n who_o by_o their_o place_n and_o calling_n may_v wear_v costly_a apparel_n yea_o and_o to_o prince_n who_o may_v lawful_o wear_v silk_n silver_n gold_n and_o the_o most_o excellent_a ornament_n of_o precious_a stone_n or_o whatsoever_o to_o all_o they_o i_o say_v god_n have_v grant_v you_o the_o use_n of_o these_o but_o withal_o be_v not_o proud_a of_o they_o for_o you_o once_o have_v a_o glory_n great_a than_o these_o but_o lose_v it_o by_o sin_n &_o sin_n bring_v a_o shame_n which_o those_o can_v hide_v for_o though_o thy_o apparel_n hide_v it_o from_o the_o world_n yet_o can_v it_o not_o from_o god_n only_a faith_n can_v cover_v it_o from_o god_n therefore_o glory_n in_o nothing_o but_o thy_o faith_n be_v ashamed_a of_o thy_o apparel_n yea_o of_o thy_o robe_n &_o costly_a ornament_n and_o know_v further_o that_o whereas_o thy_o body_n by_o sin_n be_v become_v so_o vile_a a_o mean_a cover_n &_o base_a apparel_n be_v fit_a for_o it_o and_o therefore_o know_v that_o whereas_o god_n have_v give_v thou_o use_v of_o costly_a apparel_n and_o precious_a ornament_n he_o give_v they_o not_o to_o honour_v thy_o body_n but_o the_o place_n thou_o be_v in_o and_o to_o adorn_v that_o part_n of_o his_o own_o image_n which_o he_o have_v set_v in_o thou_o by_o thy_o call_n and_o know_v last_o that_o if_o thou_o have_v keep_v that_o order_n wherein_o god_n at_o thy_o creation_n as_o this_o text_n say_v ordain_v thou_o thy_o natural_a glory_n will_v more_o have_v adorn_v thou_o and_o the_o place_n thou_o bear_v than_o all_o this_o accidental_a and_o artificial_a glory_n can_v and_o therefore_o glory_v not_o so_o much_o for_o the_o one_o as_o be_v ashamed_a for_o the_o loss_n of_o the_o other_o and_o let_v thy_o apparel_n teach_v thou_o this_o lesson_n three_o many_o man_n take_v much_o delight_n in_o some_o kind_n of_o meat_n some_o in_o variety_n of_o meat_n and_o some_o so_o love_v their_o belly_n as_o they_o care_v not_o how_o many_o creature_n or_o kind_n of_o creature_n do_v die_v for_o their_o belly_n sake_n this_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v for_o i_o take_v it_o a_o great_a fault_n for_o man_n either_o to_o be_v too_o lavish_a and_o careless_a how_o many_o creature_n they_o cause_v to_o die_v or_o though_o they_o eat_v but_o one_o kind_n to_o do_v it_o without_o all_o use_n or_o further_a consideration_n for_o mark_v whence_o come_v this_o that_o man_n can_v now_o live_v or_o not_o so_o well_o but_o his_o life_n must_v be_v the_o death_n of_o other_o creature_n his_o nourishment_n and_o preservation_n the_o destruction_n of_o other_o creature_n at_o the_o beginning_n before_o sin_n be_v this_o be_v not_o so_o no_o creature_n do_v either_o serve_v to_o clothe_v or_o feed_v adam_n but_o this_o come_v with_o sin_n sin_n bring_v this_o vanity_n upon_o creature_n to_o die_v for_o the_o feed_n and_o clothing_n of_o man_n and_o have_v we_o stand_v without_o sin_n no_o creature_n shall_v have_v lose_v his_o life_n to_o be_v our_o meat_n i_o take_v it_o therefore_o the_o duty_n of_o a_o man_n to_o make_v great_a use_n of_o his_o meat_n in_o this_o regard_n and_o first_o for_o the_o meat_n that_o he_o love_v best_o let_v he_o be_v humble_v for_o his_o sin_n know_v that_o if_o he_o have_v not_o sin_v he_o shall_v have_v have_v much_o more_o sweetness_n in_o other_o meat_n which_o notwithstanding_o shall_v not_o have_v cost_v any_o creature_n his_o life_n and_o second_o for_o variety_n be_v not_o too_o lavish_a nor_o too_o riotous_a consider_v every_o dish_n be_v the_o death_n of_o a_o creature_n of_o god_n creation_n consider_v again_o whence_o come_v this_o that_o creature_n must_v die_v to_o feed_v thou_o not_o from_o the_o creation_n creature_n be_v not_o make_v to_o that_o end_n innocence_n will_v have_v preserve_v all_o creature_n to_o more_o excellent_a end_n sin_n it_o be_v and_o thy_o sin_n that_o destroy_v so_o many_o creature_n for_o the_o belly_n of_o man_n it_o be_v a_o vanity_n come_v upon_o creature_n for_o man_n sin_n that_o they_o must_v die_v for_o man_n meat_n the_o death_n therefore_o of_o every_o creature_n shall_v be_v a_o corrosive_a to_o a_o man_n heart_n when_o he_o see_v it_o it_o shall_v touch_v he_o to_o the_o quick_a and_o make_v he_o say_v this_o creature_n die_v not_o for_o itself_o but_o for_o i_o not_o for_o it_o own_o fault_n but_o for_o i_o miserable_a sinner_n that_o i_o be_o if_o i_o have_v right_a i_o shall_v rather_o die_v than_o it_o god_n make_v it_o once_o for_o a_o better_a end_n but_o my_o sin_n have_v bring_v it_o to_o this_o corruption_n if_o this_o consideration_n take_v place_n man_n will_v not_o eat_v their_o ordinary_a fare_n with_o so_o little_a use_n nor_o at_o extraordinary_a occasion_n be_v so_o careless_a how_o much_o they_o spend_v and_o how_o many_o creature_n they_o cause_v to_o die_v but_o you_o will_v say_v god_n have_v give_v we_o liberty_n in_o meat_n difference_n of_o meat_n be_v take_v away_o in_o christ_n and_o god_n have_v give_v we_o use_v of_o his_o creature_n not_o only_o for_o necessity_n but_o more_o liberal_a use_n even_o for_o great_a delight_n and_o comfort_n i_o answer_v i_o grant_v all_o this_o and_o more_o too_o to_o a_o man_n that_o have_v faith_n i_o grant_v feast_n and_o banquet_n be_v lawful_a for_o some_o man_n on_o some_o occasion_n i_o take_v not_o away_o any_o man_n liberty_n in_o meat_n god_n have_v grant_v it_o and_o man_n ought_v not_o to_o take_v it_o away_o i_o only_o wish_v that_o when_o we_o eat_v we_o also_o will_v make_v this_o use_n of_o it_o and_o that_o we_o will_v not_o too_o riotous_o abuse_v that_o liberty_n that_o god_n have_v give_v we_o for_o diversity_n of_o meat_n faith_n give_v we_o leave_v and_o liberty_n to_o eat_v yet_o faith_n deny_v not_o a_o man_n to_o make_v a_o holy_a use_n of_o his_o eat_n for_o his_o own_o humiliation_n but_o rather_o command_v it_o four_o we_o see_v in_o the_o world_n that_o creature_n not_o only_o die_v for_o man_n feed_v but_o one_o creature_n feed_v on_o another_o and_o one_o destroy_v another_o to_o eat_v he_o the_o hawk_n prey_v on_o diverse_a kind_n of_o bird_n the_o fox_n feed_v on_o tame_a bird_n the_o wolf_n on_o the_o lamb_n great_a fish_n
with_o all_o his_o heart_n and_o soul_n and_o might_n and_o for_o that_o he_o be_v prefer_v afore_o all_o king_n afore_o or_o after_o he_o not_o that_o josias_n can_v fulfil_v the_o law_n perfect_o as_o it_o require_v but_o it_o be_v mean_v of_o the_o endeavour_n of_o his_o heart_n and_o life_n by_o which_o he_o strave_v with_o all_o his_o might_n to_o serve_v god_n as_o well_o as_o he_o can_v his_o exsample_n be_v we_o we_o profess_v religion_n we_o must_v look_v that_o our_o heart_n affect_v it_o we_o profess_v a_o turn_n from_o sin_n we_o must_v take_v heed_n it_o be_v not_o formal_a and_o from_o the_o lip_n but_o from_o the_o heart_n so_o when_o we_o practise_v any_o duty_n of_o religion_n whether_o we_o pray_v or_o hear_v the_o word_n or_o receive_v the_o sacrament_n this_o be_v the_o sacrifice_n that_o we_o can_v offer_v we_o must_v not_o do_v they_o cold_o and_o careless_o but_o with_o zealous_a affection_n and_o resolution_n from_o the_o heart_n otherwise_o if_o we_o serve_v god_n for_o fashion_n sake_n and_o our_o heart_n be_v on_o the_o world_n and_o our_o own_o lust_n we_o offer_v the_o sacrifice_n of_o curse_a cain_n and_o we_o with_o our_o formal_a religion_n shall_v go_v to_o he_o but_o let_v we_o offer_v the_o sacrifice_n of_o abel_n that_o be_v though_o it_o be_v never_o so_o little_a yet_o let_v it_o be_v the_o best_a we_o can_v and_o all_o we_o can_v and_o god_n will_v accept_v we_o as_o he_o do_v abel_n and_o thus_o the_o parent_n shall_v give_v god_n his_o best_a child_n the_o young_a man_n his_o best_a year_n every_o man_n his_o best_a part_n which_o be_v his_o heart_n and_o thus_o we_o follow_v the_o step_n of_o holy_a abel_n who_o offer_v to_o god_n the_o best_a sacrifice_n he_o have_v this_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o his_o faith_n even_o so_o that_o parent_n that_o young_a man_n that_o professor_n that_o have_v true_a faith_n will_v do_v so_o likewise_o hitherto_o of_o the_o first_o effect_n of_o abel_n faith_n it_o follow_v by_o the_o which_o he_o obtain_v witness_v that_o he_o be_v righteous_a this_o be_v the_o second_o effect_n of_o abel_n faith_n whereby_o it_o be_v commend_v 1._o for_o the_o meaning_n by_o faith_n he_o mean_v save_v faith_n which_o make_v a_o man_n just_a before_o god_n and_o no_o other_o for_o whereas_o he_o have_v say_v afore_o that_o by_o faith_n our_o elder_n have_v obtain_v a_o good_a report_n he_o prove_v that_o general_a by_o this_o exsample_n of_o abel_n therefore_o that_o save_v faith_n which_o be_v mean_v there_o be_v also_o mean_v here_o these_o word_n set_v down_o two_o benefit_n which_o abel_n have_v by_o his_o save_a faith_n first_o he_o be_v just_a by_o it_o second_o god_n testify_v that_o he_o be_v so_o for_o the_o first_o abel_n faith_n make_v he_o just_a and_o righteous_a not_o because_o his_o faith_n be_v a_o excellent_a quality_n of_o that_o virtue_n in_o itself_o as_o to_o make_v he_o just_a but_o because_o it_o be_v a_o instrument_n whereby_o he_o apprehend_v and_o apply_v to_o himself_o the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o messiah_n to_o come_v whereby_o he_o may_v stand_v just_a before_o god_n this_o be_v his_o righteousness_n which_o he_o have_v by_o faith_n for_o he_o trust_v not_o to_o any_o holiness_n of_o his_o own_o though_o it_o be_v out_o of_o question_n he_o know_v he_o be_v the_o son_n of_o that_o man_n who_o once_o be_v perfect_o righteous_a but_o the_o trust_n and_o confidence_n of_o his_o heart_n be_v in_o the_o righteousness_n of_o that_o bless_a seed_n which_o god_n have_v promise_v shall_v break_v the_o serpent_n head_n this_o promise_n he_o know_v believe_v it_o apply_v it_o to_o himself_o and_o this_o faith_n make_v he_o righteous_a here_o we_o learn_v a_o worthy_a lesson_n of_o christianity_n namely_o that_o the_o true_a and_o the_o undoubted_a way_n to_o heaven_n be_v a_o holy_a and_o lively_a faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n for_o this_o faith_n make_v a_o man_n righteous_a &_o that_o righteousness_n open_v he_o the_o gate_n of_o heaven_n to_o this_o end_n say_v the_o apostle_n be_v justify_v by_o faith_n we_o have_v peace_n with_o god_n but_o by_o who_o through_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ._n 5.1_o for_o the_o use_n of_o this_o doctrine_n we_o must_v renew_v our_o former_a exhortation_n which_o indeed_o can_v be_v too_o often_o presle_v to_o the_o conscience_n there_o be_v none_o of_o we_o so_o vile_a none_o so_o profane_a but_o we_o desire_v salvation_n if_o we_o do_v than_o we_o must_v tread_v the_o beat_a way_n to_o it_o for_o we_o be_v not_o bear_v heir_n of_o it_o neither_o can_v we_o come_v thither_o by_o chance_n but_o there_o be_v a_o way_n that_o must_v be_v take_v &_o that_o way_n be_v but_o one_o all_o other_o be_v mislead_v byway_n again_o that_o way_n must_v be_v take_v in_o this_o life_n else_o it_o be_v too_o late_o now_o this_o way_n be_v to_o be_v a_o just_a &_o righteous_a man_n with_o this_o never_o man_n fail_v and_o without_o this_o never_o man_n attain_v to_o salvation_n for_o 21.27_o no_o unclean_a thing_n can_v come_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n never_o be_v man_n justify_v there_o which_o be_v not_o just_a before_o and_o that_o must_v be_v here_o begin_v which_o in_o heaven_n be_v to_o be_v perfect_v in_o this_o life_n therefore_o we_o must_v seek_v to_o be_v just_a now_o our_o own_o good_a work_n will_v not_o serve_v to_o make_v we_o just_a for_o they_o be_v all_o unable_a to_o endure_v the_o trial_n of_o god_n justice_n and_o if_o we_o stand_v to_o they_o and_o they_o prove_v not_o able_a to_o satisfy_v god_n justice_n then_o in_o stead_n of_o save_v we_o they_o will_v condemn_v us._n therefore_o with_o abel_n let_v we_o go_v out_o of_o ourselves_o deny_v ourselves_o and_o cleave_v only_o to_o christ_n righteousness_n in_o life_n &_o death_n this_o be_v the_o way_n that_o never_o will_v deceive_v us._n but_o some_o will_v say_v we_o walk_v in_o this_o way_n i_o answer_v he_o that_o walk_v in_o a_o way_n may_v be_v trace_v by_o his_o step_n so_o then_o show_v your_o step_n of_o holiness_n of_o devotion_n of_o charity_n etc._n etc._n these_o must_v show_v your_o faith_n leave_v these_o step_n behind_o you_o and_o then_o your_o faith_n be_v good_a thus_o do_v holy_a abel_n believe_v thou_o it_o acknowledge_v it_o and_o follow_v thou_o after_o he_o and_o renounce_v all_o by_o path_n which_o the_o papist_n or_o thy_o own_o brain_n imagine_v let_v this_o one_o doctrine_n sink_v into_o thy_o heart_n in_o stead_n of_o many_o and_o let_v not_o the_o devil_n strike_v it_o out_o for_o if_o thou_o walk_v in_o this_o way_n my_o soul_n for_o thou_o it_o will_v bring_v thou_o to_o heaven_n if_o not_o at_o the_o last_o day_n this_o doctrine_n will_v condemn_v thou_o because_o it_o show_v thou_o this_o way_n and_o thou_o will_v not_o walk_v in_o it_o second_o observe_v he_o say_v abel_n be_v approve_v and_o accept_v of_o god_n how_o prove_v he_o that_o because_o his_o work_n please_v god_n as_o who_o say_v his_o work_n can_v please_v god_n unless_o his_o person_n do_v therefore_o in_o that_o his_o work_n do_v thence_o he_o conclude_v that_o his_o person_n do_v it_o be_v the_o reason_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o therefore_o infallible_a in_o the_o frame_n of_o this_o reason_n the_o holy_a ghost_n teach_v we_o a_o great_a point_n of_o our_o religion_n namely_o that_o first_o a_o man_n person_n must_v please_v god_n afore_o his_o action_n can_v and_o after_o the_o person_n than_o the_o action_n this_o be_v plain_a in_o these_o word_n for_o it_o be_v say_v he_o first_o obtain_v witness_v that_o he_o be_v righteous_a himself_n and_o then_o god_n testify_v of_o his_o gift_n so_o likewise_o more_o plain_o genesis_n 4._o 4_o god_n have_v respect_n first_o to_o abel_n and_o then_o to_o his_o offering_n so_o that_o the_o truth_n be_v manifest_a no_o work_n please_v god_n afore_o the_o worker_n do_v this_o be_v so_o have_v excellent_a use_n first_o it_o overthrow_v a_o main_a pillar_n of_o romish_a religion_n justification_n by_o work_n for_o how_o can_v a_o man_n be_v justify_v by_o his_o work_n when_o he_o himself_o must_v be_v just_a afore_o the_o work_n can_v be_v unless_o he_o be_v just_a his_o work_n be_v wicked_a if_o they_o be_v wicked_a afore_o his_o person_n be_v just_a how_o can_v they_o then_o justify_v he_o and_o if_o the_o person_n be_v once_o just_a what_o need_v it_o then_o to_o be_v again_o justify_v by_o work_n good_a work_n make_v not_o a_o man_n good_a but_o a_o good_a man_n make_v a_o work_n good_a &_o shall_v that_o work_n that_o a_o man_n make_v good_a return_v again_o &_o make_v the_o man_n good_a 1._o that_o be_v absurd_a in_o reason_n and_o 2._o
he_o prove_v it_o out_o of_o the_o old_a testament_n so_o also_o do_v the_o apostle_n and_o christ_n himself_o all_o their_o doctrine_n let_v this_o teach_v all_o man_n to_o give_v due_a reverence_n to_o the_o holy_a scripture_n let_v teacher_n allege_v they_o let_v hearer_n receive_v they_o far_o above_o all_o humane_a testimony_n see_v the_o holy_a ghost_n himself_o vouchsafe_v to_o confirm_v his_o own_o word_n by_o the_o authority_n thereof_o second_o have_v lay_v this_o ground_n the_o holy_a ghost_n frame_v his_o argument_n to_o prove_v that_o henoch_n be_v take_v away_o by_o faith_n and_o it_o consist_v of_o many_o degree_n of_o evidence_n for_o before_o he_o be_v take_v away_o he_o be_v report_v of_o that_o he_o have_v please_v god_n 6_o but_o without_o faith_n it_o be_v impossible_a to_o please_v god_n the_o degree_n of_o the_o argument_n be_v these_o 1._o god_n himself_o take_v henoch_n away_o 2._o before_o he_o be_v take_v away_o he_o please_v god_n 3._o but_o without_o faith_n no_o man_n can_v please_v god_n therefore_o henoch_n by_o faith_n be_v take_v away_o the_o first_o degree_n that_o henoch_n be_v take_v away_o and_o be_v not_o find_v any_o more_o in_o this_o world_n have_v be_v sufficient_o speak_v of_o already_o the_o second_o degree_n be_v that_o afore_o he_o be_v take_v away_o he_o please_v god_n which_o be_v not_o bare_o affirm_v but_o it_o be_v further_o add_v that_o he_o be_v report_v of_o or_o he_o receive_v testimony_n 5.22_o that_o he_o please_v god_n now_o this_o report_n or_o testimony_n be_v take_v out_o of_o the_o story_n of_o genesis_n where_o it_o be_v affirm_v of_o enoch_n that_o he_o walk_v with_o god_n which_o walk_v with_o god_n be_v a_o assure_a testimony_n that_o he_o please_v god_n 3.3_o for_o as_o the_o prophet_n amos_n say_v can_v two_o walk_v together_o unless_o they_o be_v agree_v therefore_o in_o as_o much_o as_o henoch_n walk_v with_o god_n it_o be_v proof_n sufficient_a that_o he_o please_v god_n and_o because_o he_o please_v god_n therefore_o god_n take_v he_o away_o so_o that_o here_o be_v two_o distinct_a point_n in_o this_o second_o degree_n first_o that_o henoch_n please_v god_n second_o that_o there_o be_v a_o report_n or_o a_o testimony_n give_v of_o he_o that_o he_o do_v please_v god_n in_o the_o first_o let_v we_o observe_v three_o special_a point_n of_o instruction_n first_o in_o that_o henoch_n before_o he_o be_v take_v away_o please_v god_n let_v we_o learn_v that_o whosoever_o look_v to_o have_v his_o soul_n translate_v into_o heaven_n at_o his_o death_n and_o both_o body_n &_o soul_n at_o the_o resurrection_n must_v before_o hand_n in_o this_o life_n learn_v to_o please_v god_n they_o must_v seek_v to_o please_v god_n not_o when_o the_o time_n of_o the_o translation_n be_v come_v but_o before_o as_o here_o it_o be_v say_v henoch_n do_v if_o any_o man_n demand_v how_o shall_v i_o please_v god_n my_o answer_n be_v this_o adam_n please_v god_n by_o keep_v the_o law_n but_o now_o that_o be_v past_a that_o power_n be_v lose_v we_o must_v now_o please_v god_n by_o direction_n from_o the_o gospel_n namely_o by_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o true_a repentance_n together_o with_o a_o holy_a life_n which_o must_v necessary_o accompany_v true_a faith_n and_o repentance_n thus_o god_n be_v please_v and_o this_o must_v we_o not_o defer_v till_o our_o death_n but_o do_v it_o in_o our_o life_n nor_o can_v we_o look_v to_o be_v inheritor_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o glory_n as_o now_o henoch_n be_v unless_o before_o hand_n we_o be_v in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o grace_n by_o please_a god_n as_o henoch_n do_v it_o be_v lamentable_a to_o see_v man_n not_o care_n for_o salvation_n till_o death_n and_o then_o they_o begin_v to_o please_v god_n but_o alas_o god_n will_v not_o be_v so_o please_v they_o begin_v to_o learn_v how_o to_o please_v god_n when_o they_o have_v so_o long_o displease_v he_o as_o there_o be_v then_o fear_v they_o can_v never_o please_v he_o but_o that_o man_n live_v and_o die_v with_o comfort_n of_o who_o it_o may_v be_v say_v as_o here_o of_o henoch_n before_o he_o be_v take_v away_o he_o please_v god_n again_o whereas_o he_o come_v not_o in_o heaven_n till_o he_o please_v god_n this_o discover_v the_o madness_n of_o sinful_a man_n who_o will_v look_v for_o heaven_n and_o yet_o will_v leave_v no_o sin_n but_o flatter_v themselves_o therein_o but_o let_v all_o impenitent_a man_n here_o take_v knowledge_n that_o they_o come_v not_o in_o heaven_n till_o they_o please_v god_n let_v they_o therefore_o cease_v please_v themselves_o and_o their_o corruption_n by_o live_v in_o sin_n and_o learn_v to_o please_v god_n by_o a_o holy_a life_n and_o further_o in_o this_o point_n mark_v how_o nothing_o bring_v henoch_n to_o heaven_n but_o his_o please_a of_o god_n he_o be_v rich_a for_o he_o be_v one_o of_o the_o great_a on_o the_o earth_n he_o be_v royallie_o descend_v for_o he_o be_v the_o seven_o from_o adam_n in_o the_o bless_a line_n he_o be_v learn_v for_o he_o have_v the_o six_o first_o patriarch_n to_o teach_v he_o six_o such_o tutor_n as_o never_o man_n have_v and_o it_o be_v likely_a he_o have_v a_o comely_a strong_a and_o active_a body_n but_o see_v all_o these_o bring_v he_o not_o to_o heaven_n no_o he_o please_v god_n and_o be_v therefore_o take_v away_o let_v this_o teach_v we_o not_o to_o rest_v in_o wealth_n beauty_n strength_n honour_n humane_a learning_n nor_o all_o these_o put_v together_o without_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n for_o some_o of_o they_o may_v please_v thyself_o and_o some_o may_v please_v other_o man_n but_o god_n must_v be_v please_v afore_o thou_o come_v in_o heaven_n if_o thou_o be_v as_o good_a as_o henoch_n therefore_o unto_o all_o thy_o outward_a blessing_n add_v this_o to_o please_v god_n by_o faith_n and_o repentance_n then_o as_o thy_o please_a of_o man_n may_v make_v thou_o happy_a in_o this_o world_n so_o thy_o please_a of_o god_n shall_v translate_v thou_o from_o earth_n to_o heaven_n thus_o we_o see_v henoch_n before_o he_o be_v translate_v please_v god_n second_o as_o he_o please_v god_n and_o else_o can_v not_o have_v be_v translate_v so_o it_o be_v add_v he_o be_v so_o report_v of_o or_o there_o be_v such_o a_o testimony_n of_o he_o that_o proof_n or_o testimony_n be_v here_o conceal_v but_o it_o be_v record_v in_o the_o story_n of_o genesis_n where_o it_o be_v say_v henoch_n walk_v with_o god_n which_o as_o we_o hear_v before_o be_v a_o assure_a testimony_n that_o god_n be_v well_o please_v with_o he_o but_o what_o be_v this_o he_o walk_v with_o god_n how_o can_v a_o man_n â—e_v say_v to_o walk_v with_o god_n the_o meaning_n be_v that_o henoch_n live_v a_o godly_a righteous_a and_o innocent_a life_n in_o this_o world_n â—or_a to_o live_v in_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n be_v to_o walk_v with_o god_n and_o further_o his_o heart_n be_v possess_v of_o two_o persuasion_n or_o resolution_n which_o be_v the_o inducement_n draw_v he_o to_o this_o holy_a life_n first_o that_o he_o be_v always_o in_o god_n presence_n and_o that_o god_n be_v always_o ready_a to_o dispose_v of_o all_o thing_n to_o his_o good_a again_o that_o god_n do_v see_v try_v and_o discern_v all_o his_o word_n and_o deed_n yea_o his_o cogitation_n and_o thought_n and_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o his_o life_n these_o be_v the_o holy_a resolution_n of_o henoch_n and_o these_o make_v he_o lead_v a_o holy_a life_n this_o lesson_n be_v worth_a learning_n and_o this_o example_n worthy_a to_o be_v follow_v of_o we_o all_o our_o duty_n be_v with_o henoch_n to_o walk_v with_o god_n in_o this_o life_n if_o we_o purpose_v to_o live_v with_o god_n in_o heaven_n and_o we_o walk_v with_o god_n by_o lead_v holy_a and_o unblameable_a life_n in_o holiness_n towards_o god_n and_o righteousness_n towards_o man_n but_o if_o we_o think_v this_o hard_a to_o do_v we_o must_v labour_v to_o be_v resolve_v on_o these_o ground_n first_o that_o god_n and_o his_o providence_n be_v ever_o present_a with_o we_o to_o dispose_v of_o we_o always_o to_o his_o glory_n and_o of_o all_o other_o thing_n to_o our_o good_a second_o that_o as_o we_o be_v in_o god_n presence_n so_o god_n see_v we_o and_o all_o our_o thought_n word_n and_o work_n bargain_n and_o deal_n and_o will_v judge_v they_o all_o when_o these_o two_o persuasion_n possess_v our_o heart_n it_o can_v be_v but_o we_o shall_v live_v godly_a and_o fear_v to_o offend_v god_n for_o as_o a_o child_n be_v dutiful_a and_o obedient_a in_o his_o father_n presence_n so_o when_o a_o man_n be_v persuade_v he_o be_v in_o god_n presence_n it_o can_v but_o make_v he_o dutiful_a when_o a_o man_n be_v persuade_v that_o god_n see_v he_o
though_o they_o all_o have_v their_o several_a commendation_n in_o the_o word_n yet_o of_o none_o of_o they_o all_o be_v it_o say_v in_o the_o whole_a scripture_n as_o it_o be_v here_o say_v of_o faith_n that_o without_o it_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o please_v god_n and_o no_o marvel_n for_o it_o be_v the_o root_n and_o ground_n of_o all_o other_o grace_n and_o give_v they_o their_o life_n and_o be_v for_o therefore_o do_v a_o man_n fear_v god_n therefore_o do_v he_o love_n god_n therefore_o be_v he_o zealous_a for_o god_n glory_n because_o he_o believe_v that_o god_n love_v he_o in_o christ_n the_o redeemer_n now_o than_o if_o faith_n be_v thus_o necessary_a than_o it_o follow_v that_o those_o that_o live_v in_o ignorance_n and_o so_o have_v no_o sound_a faith_n but_o a_o foolish_a presumption_n be_v in_o a_o miserable_a case_n for_o however_o they_o may_v flatter_v themselves_o with_o conceit_n of_o their_o devotion_n and_o good_a meaning_n and_o good_a intent_n it_o be_v faith_n with_o which_o they_o must_v please_v god_n and_o nothing_o can_v without_o it_o it_o stand_v they_o therefore_o in_o hand_n to_o lay-off_a ignorance_n and_o presumption_n and_o labour_n for_o a_o sound_n and_o save_a faith_n and_o that_o will_v bring_v they_o to_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n and_o again_o as_o for_o such_o as_o have_v receive_v grace_n to_o believe_v see_v faith_n be_v of_o such_o necessity_n and_o that_o they_o have_v faith_n must_v needs_o have_v knowledge_n they_o therefore_o must_v look_v and_o examine_v by_o their_o knowledge_n whether_o their_o faith_n be_v a_o sound_a faith_n or_o no_o for_o herein_o many_o that_o have_v knowledge_n deceive_v themselves_o and_o think_v they_o have_v true_a faith_n when_o they_o have_v not_o now_o if_o any_o man_n will_v know_v whether_o his_o faith_n be_v sound_n and_o save_v or_o no_o it_o be_v know_v by_o this_o if_o it_o purify_v the_o heart_n for_o so_o say_v s._n peter_n that_o god_n by_o faith_n do_v purify_v the_o heart_n of_o the_o profane_a and_o filthy_a gentile_n 15.9_o if_o then_o thy_o faith_n do_v not_o purify_v thy_o heart_n and_o cleanse_v thy_o life_n and_o cause_v thou_o to_o abound_v in_o good_a work_n it_o be_v no_o sound_n nor_o save_v faith_n it_o be_v but_o a_o general_a faith_n it_o be_v but_o a_o historical_a knowledge_n and_o can_v save_v the_o soul_n he_o therefore_o that_o upon_o examination_n of_o his_o heart_n and_o life_n find_v his_o faith_n to_o be_v such_o let_v he_o not_o content_v himself_o but_o turn_v his_o general_a faith_n into_o a_o save_a faith_n which_o in_o this_o world_n will_v purify_v his_o heart_n and_o at_o the_o last_o day_n will_v save_v his_o soul_n and_o this_o must_v every_o man_n the_o rather_o do_v because_o what_o knowledge_n or_o what_o other_o gift_n of_o god_n soever_o any_o many_o have_v without_o faith_n in_o christ_n all_o be_v nothing_o for_o it_o be_v faith_n that_o season_v they_o all_o and_o make_v both_o they_o and_o the_o person_n himself_o to_o please_v god_n second_o if_o it_o be_v impossible_a without_o faith_n to_o please_v god_n then_o here_o we_o see_v the_o fond_a and_o foolish_a hypocrisy_n of_o the_o world_n who_o will_v please_v god_n by_o other_o mean_n some_o think_v if_o they_o be_v glorious_a in_o the_o world_n either_o for_o their_o wealth_n or_o their_o wit_n or_o their_o honour_n or_o their_o authority_n or_o their_o learning_n they_o present_o bring_v themselves_o into_o a_o fool_n paradise_n and_o because_o the_o world_n make_v account_n of_o they_o and_o they_o please_v themselves_o therefore_o they_o think_v it_o certain_a they_o must_v needs_o please_v god_n but_o alas_o though_o all_o the_o world_n admire_v they_o and_o they_o be_v never_o so_o far_o in_o love_n with_o themselves_o he_o that_o sit_v in_o heaven_n laugh_v they_o to_o scorn_v for_o 2._o not_o all_o the_o pomp_n and_o glory_n nor_o all_o the_o million_o and_o mountain_n of_o gold_n in_o the_o world_n can_v please_v the_o lord_n for_o one_o of_o the_o least_o of_o their_o many_o thousand_o sin_n wherewith_o they_o have_v provoke_v he_o let_v these_o man_n ask_v nabuchadnezzer_n if_o his_o pompous_a pride_n or_o achitophel_n if_o his_o active_a head_n and_o crafty_a wit_n or_o absalon_n if_o his_o golden_a lock_n or_o jezabell_n if_o her_o paint_a face_n and_o courtly_a attire_n or_o naball_n if_o his_o flock_n of_o sheep_n or_o the_o philosopher_n if_o their_o natural_a learning_n if_o all_o of_o these_o or_o any_o of_o these_o do_v ever_o please_v god_n nay_o alas_o they_o all_o have_v find_v and_o feel_v that_o without_o faith_n it_o be_v impossible_a to_o please_v god_n three_o it_o be_v the_o opinion_n not_o of_o the_o turk_n alone_o in_o his_o koran_n but_o of_o many_o other_o as_o ill_o that_o every_o man_n shall_v be_v save_v by_o his_o own_o religion_n if_o he_o be_v devout_a therein_o be_v he_o turk_n jew_n or_o christian_a papist_n or_o protestant_n but_o this_o be_v a_o ground_n and_o rule_v of_o atheism_n and_o appear_v here_o to_o be_v most_o false_a for_o no_o salvation_n without_o please_v of_o god_n and_o without_o faith_n it_o be_v impossible_a to_o please_v god_n therefore_o no_o religion_n can_v save_v a_o man_n but_o that_o which_o teach_v a_o man_n right_o to_o believe_v in_o christ_n and_o consequent_o to_o please_v god_n but_o every_o religion_n teach_v not_o to_o believe_v in_o christ_n some_o not_o at_o all_o and_o some_o not_o aright_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o such_o a_o religion_n to_o save_v a_o man_n again_o be_v a_o man_n what_o he_o can_v be_v unless_o he_o be_v within_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n he_o can_v be_v save_v but_o he_o can_v be_v within_o the_o covenant_n but_o by_o faith_n therefore_o no_o man_n can_v be_v save_v by_o any_o mean_n but_o by_o true_a faith_n nor_o in_o any_o religion_n but_o that_o which_o teach_v true_a faith_n here_o therefore_o not_o only_a turk_n and_o jew_n be_v exclude_v but_o this_o also_o show_v many_o papist_n and_o many_o carnal_a gospeler_n in_o our_o church_n how_o short_a they_o come_v of_o that_o religion_n which_o must_v save_v their_o soul_n for_o this_o be_v the_o conceit_n of_o the_o most_o man_n that_o if_o they_o do_v some_o good_a work_n which_o carry_v a_o fair_a show_n to_o the_o world_n as_o liberality_n to_o learning_n or_o charity_n to_o the_o poor_a straight_o they_o think_v they_o have_v leave_v to_o live_v as_o they_o list_v and_o god_n be_v bind_v to_o forgive_v their_o sin_n and_o to_o give_v they_o heaven_n and_o this_o they_o imagine_v though_o they_o know_v not_o what_o it_o be_v to_o believe_v in_o christ_n or_o to_o repent_v of_o their_o sin_n one_o of_o this_o religion_n come_v to_o the_o prophet_n micha_n in_o his_o day_n and_o ask_v he_o this_o question_n utter_v that_o plain_o which_o all_o such_o man_n think_v in_o their_o heart_n wherewithal_o shall_v i_o come_v before_o the_o lord_n 6.7.8_o and_o bow_v myself_o before_o the_o high_a god_n shall_v i_o come_v before_o he_o with_o thousand_o of_o ram_n and_o ten_o thousand_o river_n of_o oil_n he_o make_v the_o question_n and_o will_v fain_o make_v answer_v himself_o nay_o he_o go_v further_o and_o offer_v more_o shall_v i_o give_v my_o first_o bear_v for_o my_o transgression_n and_o the_o fruit_n of_o my_o body_n for_o the_o sin_n of_o my_o soul_n but_o the_o prophet_n answer_v he_o show_v he_o his_o folly_n and_o how_o little_a god_n regard_v such_o work_n without_o a_o contrite_a heart_n he_o have_v show_v thou_o o_o man_n what_o be_v good_a and_o what_o the_o lord_n require_v of_o thou_o sure_o to_o do_v just_o to_o love_v mercy_n to_o humble_v thyself_o and_o walk_v with_o thy_o god_n mark_v how_o that_o answer_n fit_v this_o example_n of_o henoch_n he_o please_v god_n he_o walk_v with_o god_n and_o be_v take_v away_o so_o answer_v the_o prophet_n if_o thou_o will_v please_v thy_o god_n and_o come_v to_o heaven_n by_o his_o favour_n never_o stand_v upon_o thousand_o of_o ram_n and_o river_n of_o oil_n upon_o thy_o gay_a and_o glorious_a work_n but_o humble_a thyself_o and_o walk_n with_o thy_o god_n no_o walk_a with_o god_n say_v micha_n no_o please_v of_o god_n what_o be_v it_o but_o all_o one_o as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v without_o faith_n it_o be_v impossible_a to_o please_v god_n here_o then_o be_v no_o disallowance_n of_o good_a work_n but_o of_o work_n without_o faith_n and_o true_a repentance_n which_o though_o they_o be_v never_o so_o fair_a and_o flourish_a yet_o be_v it_o impossible_a that_o without_o faith_n they_o shall_v please_v god_n hereby_o it_o be_v also_o manifest_a that_o all_o the_o virtue_n of_o the_o heathen_a and_o the_o work_n of_o such_o man_n as_o either_o know_v
because_o they_o be_v contrary_a as_o noah_n drunkenness_n lot_n incest_n david_n adultery_n and_o many_o other_o his_o infirmity_n and_o such_o like_a such_o as_o be_v direct_o agreeable_a with_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v to_o be_v embrace_v and_o receive_v as_o direction_n for_o our_o life_n not_o for_o their_o own_o sake_n but_o because_o they_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o word_n but_o as_o for_o such_o as_o be_v neither_o command_v nor_o forbid_v and_o be_v do_v be_v neither_o allow_v nor_o disallow_v these_o be_v do_v by_o godly_a man_n and_o such_o who_o for_o their_o faith_n be_v approve_v of_o god_n and_o against_o which_o no_o exception_n can_v be_v take_v in_o the_o word_n they_o be_v as_o rule_v and_o direction_n for_o we_o in_o the_o like_a case_n now_o there_o be_v no_o action_n that_o can_v fall_v out_o in_o the_o life_n of_o a_o christian_a man_n for_o which_o he_o have_v not_o out_o of_o the_o scripture_n either_o a_o rule_n general_a or_o particular_a or_o else_o some_o example_n to_o follow_v which_o be_v as_o good_a as_o a_o rule_n unto_o he_o and_o thus_o we_o see_v how_o the_o scripture_n afford_v direction_n for_o all_o our_o action_n in_o the_o demonstration_n whereof_o we_o have_v stand_v the_o long_a because_o it_o be_v a_o principle_n of_o great_a moment_n the_o use_n hereof_o be_v double_a first_o we_o must_v therefore_o in_o all_o the_o action_n of_o our_o life_n and_o calling_n take_v consultation_n with_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o for_o our_o direction_n therein_o we_o must_v search_v for_o either_o general_a or_o particular_a rule_n or_o at_o least_o for_o example_n of_o godly_a man_n in_o like_a case_n and_o without_o the_o warrant_n and_o direction_n of_o some_o of_o these_o we_o be_v by_o no_o mean_n to_o enter_v into_o any_o thing_n or_o to_o do_v any_o work_n if_o we_o do_v than_o we_o can_v clear_v ourselves_o from_o sin_n in_o so_o do_v for_o we_o sin_n because_o we_o please_v not_o god_n in_o do_v that_o action_n we_o please_v not_o god_n because_o we_o have_v no_o faith_n for_o the_o do_v of_o it_o we_o have_v no_o faith_n because_o we_o have_v no_o warrant_n nor_o ground_n in_o the_o word_n for_o it_o therefore_o whatever_o a_o man_n presume_v to_o do_v without_o some_o warrant_n in_o the_o word_n for_o his_o direction_n he_o sin_v in_o so_o do_v second_o â—ere_z minister_n must_v learn_v their_o duty_n for_o if_o no_o action_n can_v possible_o please_v god_n that_o be_v do_v without_o faith_n nor_o can_v be_v do_v in_o faith_n without_o warrant_n from_o the_o word_n then_o must_v they_o be_v god_n mouth_n unto_o the_o people_n to_o be_v able_a to_o tell_v they_o what_o be_v lawful_a what_o be_v unlawful_a by_o the_o word_n that_o so_o their_o people_n may_v perform_v their_o action_n in_o faith_n and_o consequent_o please_v god_n now_o have_v lay_v down_o this_o rule_n because_o it_o be_v a_o principle_n of_o so_o great_a moment_n the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o the_o next_o word_n proceed_v to_o the_o proof_n of_o it_o for_o he_o that_o come_v to_o god_n must_v believe_v that_o god_n be_v and_o that_o he_o be_v a_o rewarder_n of_o they_o that_o seek_v he_o these_o word_n be_v a_o proof_n of_o the_o former_a rule_n and_o the_o reason_n stand_v thus_o he_o that_o come_v to_o god_n must_v needs_o believe_v but_o he_o that_o please_v god_n come_v to_o god_n therefore_o he_o that_o please_v god_n must_v needs_o believe_v and_o so_o without_o faith_n it_o be_v impossible_a to_o please_v god_n he_o that_o come_v to_o god_n to_o come_v to_o god_n in_o the_o scripture_n but_o especial_o in_o this_o example_n be_v to_o labour_v to_o have_v fellowship_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n as_o be_v manifest_a in_o three_o place_n more_o in_o the_o four_o chapter_n we_o be_v bid_v to_o go_v bold_o to_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n 10.22_o and_o in_o the_o seven_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o be_v able_a perfect_o to_o save_v thâ—m_n that_o come_v unto_o god_n by_o he_o and_o in_o the_o ten_o we_o be_v call_v to_o draw_v near_o with_o a_o true_a heart_n in_o assurance_n of_o faith_n out_o of_o all_o which_o place_n it_o appear_v that_o to_o come_v to_o god_n be_v to_o have_v fellowship_n with_o god_n by_o christ._n and_o the_o reason_n why_o that_o phrase_n be_v so_o often_o use_v to_o the_o hebrew_n be_v for_o that_o many_o of_o they_o have_v receive_v the_o profession_n of_o christ_n afterward_o forsake_v he_o again_o and_o fall_v from_o his_o religion_n and_o by_o renounce_v christ_n fall_v away_o from_o god_n therefore_o he_o exhort_v they_o to_o take_v heed_n lest_o there_o be_v in_o any_o of_o they_o a_o evil_a heart_n and_o unfaithful_a to_o depart_v from_o the_o live_a god_n chap._n 3.12_o now_o by_o the_o contrary_a iâ—_n to_o renounce_v christ_n be_v to_o fall_v or_o go_v away_o from_o god_n then_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o to_o come_v to_o god_n be_v to_o cleave_v to_o christ_n and_o to_o god_n by_o christ._n so_o then_o the_o meaning_n be_v he_o that_o will_v have_v any_o fellowship_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n he_o must_v believe_v what_o must_v he_o believe_v two_o thing_n 1._o that_o god_n be_v 2._o that_o he_o be_v a_o rewarder_n of_o they_o that_o seek_v he_o he_o must_v first_o believe_v that_o god_n be_v that_o be_v not_o so_o much_o that_o there_o be_v a_o god_n for_o that_o we_o be_v teach_v by_o the_o very_a light_n of_o nature_n but_o that_o this_o god_n who_o in_o christ_n he_o labour_v to_o know_v and_o come_v near_o be_v the_o true_a and_o only_o god_n this_o be_v a_o notable_a point_n in_o christian_a religion_n to_o believe_v that_o god_n be_v god_n indeed_o not_o a_o fiction_n a_o shadow_n or_o imaginary_a god_n but_o god_n indeed_o for_o it_o be_v the_o scope_n of_o the_o first_o commandment_n that_o god_n give_v mankind_n if_o any_o man_n object_n there_o be_v no_o man_n that_o know_v god_n but_o confess_v god_n to_o be_v god_n no_o man_n be_v so_o mad_a as_o ever_o to_o think_v otherwise_o i_o answer_v to_o believe_v the_o true_a god_n to_o be_v god_n indeed_o be_v a_o matter_n of_o great_a difficulty_n for_o though_o a_o man_n by_o nature_n think_v there_o be_v a_o god_n yet_o do_v we_o not_o by_o nature_n think_v the_o true_a god_n to_o be_v god_n nay_o by_o nature_n every_o man_n be_v a_o atheist_n and_o deny_v in_o his_o heart_n the_o true_a god_n to_o be_v god_n and_o do_v impugn_v the_o first_o commandment_n above_o all_o other_o and_o this_o may_v true_o and_o safe_o be_v affirm_v of_o all_o man_n that_o ever_o come_v of_o adam_n christ_n alone_a except_v that_o by_o nature_n they_o be_v atheist_n and_o it_o may_v be_v prove_v thus_o by_o nature_n though_o we_o know_v and_o believe_v there_o be_v a_o god_n yet_o the_o corruption_n of_o our_o nature_n be_v such_o as_o we_o frame_v and_o feign_v he_o to_o ourselves_o to_o be_v such_o a_o one_o as_o we_o please_v for_o we_o deny_v in_o our_o heart_n his_o power_n his_o presence_n and_o his_o justice_n but_o to_o take_v away_o these_o three_o from_o he_o be_v to_o deny_v the_o true_a god_n to_o be_v god_n indeed_o first_o man_n by_o nature_n deny_v god_n presence_n for_o man_n will_v be_v ashamed_a to_o do_v many_o thing_n in_o the_o presence_n of_o any_o man_n even_o the_o base_a in_o the_o world_n which_o when_o they_o be_v out_o of_o man_n sight_n and_o yet_o in_o god_n presence_n they_o commit_v careless_o and_o bold_o i_o speak_v not_o of_o natural_a action_n which_o be_v lawful_a &_o yet_o in_o many_o whereof_o there_o be_v none_o so_o great_a shame_n as_o man_n natural_o refuse_v to_o do_v they_o before_o other_o but_o i_o mean_v sinful_a action_n which_o not_o for_o any_o natural_a unseemliness_n but_o even_o for_o their_o foulness_n and_o ugliness_n because_o they_o be_v heinous_a sin_n man_n will_v fear_v to_o do_v if_o any_o man_n be_v present_a see_v then_o man_n fear_v not_o nor_o shame_v not_o to_o do_v they_o though_o they_o be_v in_o god_n presence_n it_o follow_v that_o therefore_o they_o natural_o imagine_v that_o god_n be_v not_o present_a for_o if_o they_o be_v so_o persuade_v they_o will_v not_o commit_v they_o though_o they_o esteem_v god_n no_o better_a than_o a_o man_n second_o man_n by_o nature_n deny_v god_n power_n thus_o when_o a_o man_n offend_v a_o magistrate_n by_o break_v any_o law_n which_o may_v deserve_v death_n or_o some_o great_a punishment_n he_o be_v sore_o afraid_a and_o all_o his_o care_n be_v how_o he_o may_v escape_v his_o punish_a hand_n but_o let_v a_o man_n offend_v god_n never_o so_o much_o by_o break_v careless_o all_o his_o holy_a commandment_n he_o never_o fear_v at_o all_o nor_o tremble_v
therefore_o go_v to_o god_n by_o earnest_a prayer_n to_o give_v we_o his_o spirit_n to_o work_v true_a faith_n in_o our_o heart_n and_o to_o make_v we_o of_o a_o true_a belief_n and_o second_o see_v man_n may_v be_v christian_n in_o profession_n and_o atheist_n in_o practice_n let_v we_o all_o look_n narrow_o to_o ourselves_o and_o join_v with_o our_o profession_n conscience_n and_o obedience_n for_o else_o the_o more_o we_o know_v god_n the_o worse_o we_o be_v it_o may_v please_v god_n after_o to_o give_v we_o better_a mind_n but_o as_o yet_o we_o be_v no_o better_a than_o denier_v of_o god_n and_o though_o we_o come_v near_o god_n in_o profession_n and_o in_o his_o outward_a service_n yet_o indeed_o we_o be_v far_o from_o he_o because_o we_o want_v that_o true_a faith_n which_o must_v profess_v god_n not_o in_o judgement_n alone_o but_o in_o practice_n and_o that_o will_v bring_v we_o near_o unto_o god_n for_o he_o that_o come_v to_o god_n must_v believe_v that_o god_n be_v and_o thus_o much_o for_o the_o first_o thing_n to_o be_v believe_v by_o he_o that_o will_v come_v to_o god_n and_o please_v he_o the_o second_o be_v and_o that_o he_o be_v a_o rewarder_n of_o they_o that_o seek_v he_o it_o be_v a_o notable_a sentence_n and_o one_o of_o the_o most_o comfortable_a in_o the_o book_n of_o god_n and_o contain_v the_o second_o thing_n to_o be_v believe_v the_o part_n be_v natural_o two_o 1._o how_o a_o man_n do_v seek_v god_n 2._o how_o god_n reward_v they_o that_o seek_v he_o for_o the_o first_o a_o man_n true_o seek_v god_n by_o do_v four_o action_n first_o a_o man_n must_v forsake_v himself_o go_v out_o of_o himself_o and_o as_o it_o be_v loose_v himself_o in_o his_o own_o judgement_n when_o he_o intend_v to_o seek_v god_n if_o any_o ask_v how_o that_o may_v be_v i_o answer_v thus_o a_o man_n must_v labour_v to_o see_v his_o sin_n full_o and_o distinct_o and_o in_o sight_n thereof_o be_v cast_v down_o in_o himself_o as_o a_o man_n be_v when_o he_o see_v his_o debt_n then_o let_v he_o look_v into_o himself_o and_o see_v if_o he_o can_v find_v in_o himself_o any_o ability_n to_o pay_v those_o debt_n or_o any_o mean_n in_o the_o world_n to_o satisfy_v god_n â—ustice_n and_o purchase_v pardon_n and_o if_o upon_o due_a examination_n he_o find_v none_o at_o all_o no_o not_o the_o least_o nor_o any_o thing_n in_o himself_o but_o a_o accuse_v and_o rage_a conscience_n let_v he_o then_o fall_v out_o of_o all_o love_n with_o himself_o nay_o hate_v and_o abhor_v himself_o and_o his_o own_o baseness_n and_o last_o let_v he_o despair_v of_o his_o own_o salvation_n in_o or_o from_o himself_o and_o thus_o do_v he_o forsake_v himself_o deny_v himself_o and_o even_o lose_v himself_o and_o thus_o necessary_o must_v he_o do_v to_o himself_o that_o will_v set_v his_o heart_n to_o seek_v the_o lord_n for_o god_n will_v be_v find_v of_o none_o that_o hope_v to_o find_v help_n at_o any_o hand_n but_o he_o they_o therefore_o that_o seek_v god_n but_o will_v seek_v themselves_o too_o do_v just_o loose_v both_o god_n and_o themselves_o second_o he_o that_o will_v seek_v god_n aright_o when_o he_o have_v lose_v himself_o must_v hunger_n in_o his_o heart_n and_o soul_n not_o after_o wealth_n and_o honour_n ease_n or_o pleasure_n but_o after_o the_o favour_n and_o mercy_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n for_o the_o forgiveness_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o one_o drop_n of_o christ_n blood_n to_o wash_v away_o the_o guilt_n and_o stain_n of_o his_o defile_a and_o sinful_a soul_n must_v be_v dear_a to_o he_o then_o all_o the_o pomp_n and_o glory_n of_o ten_o world_n look_v how_o a_o hungry_a soul_n hunger_n after_o meat_n and_o a_o fainty_a soul_n thirst_v after_o drink_n so_o must_v his_o soul_n hunger_n after_o god_n mercy_n and_o thirst_n for_o christ_n blood_n and_o these_o be_v necessary_a for_o as_o a_o man_n that_o undertake_v a_o long_a journey_n must_v be_v provide_v of_o meat_n and_o drink_v so_o he_o that_o undertake_v the_o journey_n to_o go_v seek_v the_o lord_n must_v have_v this_o provision_n for_o the_o diet_n of_o his_o poor_a soul_n god_n mercy_n and_o christ_n merit_n and_o he_o that_o seek_v without_o a_o soul_n hunger_a after_o these_o may_v seek_v long_o and_o find_v nothing_o three_o if_o he_o will_v true_o seek_v god_n he_o must_v not_o go_v in_o every_o path_n but_o take_v the_o true_a &_o live_a way_n which_o christ_n have_v consecrate_v by_o his_o blood_n nor_o take_v any_o guide_n but_o trust_v to_o christ_n spirit_n alone_o to_o be_v his_o guide_n nor_o make_v many_o mediator_n or_o messenger_n to_o god_n but_o make_v christ_n alone_o to_o god_n the_o father_n we_o must_v therefore_o go_v to_o he_o and_o yield_v up_o ourselves_o to_o be_v teach_v and_o guide_v by_o he_o &_o leave_v our_o suit_n to_o be_v prefer_v by_o he_o we_o must_v not_o look_v to_o come_v to_o god_n by_o run_v on_o pilgrimage_n to_o this_o or_o that_o saint_n picture_n or_o bone_n or_o to_o our_o lady_n of_o loreto_n many_o have_v seek_v god_n in_o these_o but_o who_o ever_o find_v he_o nay_o alas_o thou_o may_v lodge_v in_o her_o forge_a tabernacle_n at_o loreto_n all_o thy_o life_n and_o lie_v in_o hell_n for_o all_o that_o when_o thou_o be_v dead_a and_o may_v kiss_v all_o the_o saint_n picture_n and_o bone_n and_o hair_n and_o all_o their_o relic_n in_o spain_n and_o italy_n and_o all_o can_v get_v thou_o one_o sight_n of_o god_n favourable_a countenance_n nor_o again_o must_v we_o look_v to_o come_v to_o god_n by_o our_o good_a work_n though_o we_o be_v to_o do_v they_o they_o be_v good_a mark_n in_o the_o way_n and_o good_a evidence_n of_o a_o right_a way_n but_o they_o can_v open_v heaven_n and_o let_v thou_o in_o and_o therefore_o when_o thou_o have_v do_v all_o thou_o can_v thou_o must_v forsake_v they_o all_o in_o matter_n of_o justification_n and_o come_n to_o god_n only_o thou_o must_v go_v to_o god_n by_o christ_n and_o cleave_v to_o he_o alone_o he_o be_v the_o door_n the_o way_n the_o truth_n the_o life_n and_o certain_o never_o man_v find_v god_n that_o seek_v he_o not_o in_o christ_n alone_o and_o when_o popish_a device_n and_o distinction_n have_v do_v all_o they_o can_v man_n will_v be_v find_v liar_n and_o christ_n to_o speak_v truth_n say_v no_o man_n come_v to_o the_o father_n but_o by_o i_o last_o when_o all_o these_o be_v do_v then_o must_v thou_o believe_v that_o god_n be_v become_v thy_o merciful_a father_n in_o christ_n and_o be_v reconcile_v unto_o thou_o in_o he_o for_o there_o be_v no_o fear_n but_o if_o thou_o seek_v god_n in_o christ_n thou_o shall_v find_v he_o and_o when_o thou_o have_v do_v the_o three_o former_a thing_n thou_o may_v safe_o and_o assure_o believe_v that_o thou_o have_v true_o seek_v god_n and_o after_o all_o these_o if_o thou_o have_v not_o firm_a and_o lively_a faith_n thou_o do_v not_o seek_v god_n for_o as_o it_o be_v impossible_a without_o faith_n to_o please_v god_n so_o be_v it_o impossible_a without_o faith_n to_o find_v god_n thus_o if_o a_o man_n lose_v himself_o long_o after_o god_n mercy_n take_v christ_n alone_o for_o his_o guide_n and_o mediator_n and_o steadfast_o believe_v his_o reconciliation_n with_o god_n by_o christ_n than_o he_o seek_v god_n aright_o and_o to_o this_o seek_v belong_v a_o reward_n and_o blessing_n now_o than_o if_o this_o be_v to_o seek_v god_n here_o be_v some_o light_n give_v to_o a_o great_a question_n whether_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v a_o true_a church_n and_o their_o doctrine_n true_o catholic_a or_o erroneous_a and_o fail_v in_o fundamental_a point_n for_o answer_v can_v that_o be_v a_o true_a church_n which_o do_v not_o bring_v her_o child_n to_o seek_v god_n or_o that_o catholic_a doctrine_n which_o teach_v not_o her_o child_n to_o seek_v god_n the_o right_a way_n but_o send_v they_o into_o 1000_o byway_n sure_o if_o this_o be_v to_o seek_v god_n then_o search_v all_o the_o popish_a doctor_n and_o almost_o all_o their_o writer_n and_o see_v whether_o a_o man_n be_v not_o teach_v to_o seek_v god_n quite_o in_o another_o walk_n which_o way_n of_o they_o whether_o be_v ordinary_o bring_v the_o seeker_n to_o god_n or_o no_o we_o leave_v to_o god_n merciful_a judgement_n but_o for_o ourselves_o as_o we_o see_v we_o have_v the_o true_a &_o live_a way_n the_o sure_a and_o infallible_a way_n by_o christ_n to_o god_n by_o the_o son_n to_o the_o father_n let_v we_o rejoice_v in_o the_o comfort_n of_o so_o rich_a a_o mercy_n and_o be_v thankful_a to_o the_o lord_n for_o reveal_v himself_o unto_o we_o and_o open_v unto_o we_o the_o true_a way_n to_o he_o and_o to_o his_o
glory_n and_o thus_o much_o for_o the_o first_o point_n how_o we_o must_v seek_v god_n the_o second_o be_v how_o he_o be_v a_o rewarder_n of_o they_o that_o seek_v he_o i_o answer_v god_n reward_v they_o that_o seek_v he_o first_o by_o offer_v himself_o gracious_o to_o be_v find_v of_o they_o that_o seek_v he_o for_o he_o never_o hide_v himself_o nor_o turn_v away_o from_o the_o soul_n that_o seek_v he_o but_o rather_o turn_v to_o he_o and_o meet_v he_o that_o come_v to_o he_o he_o be_v that_o good_a father_n which_o see_v the_o prodigal_a son_n afar_o off_o and_o meet_v he_o and_o receive_v he_o luke_n 16._o yea_o rather_o be_v it_o true_a that_o he_o be_v find_v of_o they_o that_o seek_v he_o not_o then_o ever_o seek_v by_o any_o that_o find_v he_o not_o and_o hereby_o god_n much_o magnify_v his_o grace_n and_o mercy_n to_o mankind_n in_o be_v so_o assure_o find_v when_o man_n seek_v he_o for_o in_o this_o world_n it_o be_v not_o so_o all_o man_n seek_v the_o face_n of_o the_o prince_n say_v solomon_n true_a but_o all_o man_n find_v it_o not_o no._n access_n to_o great_a man_n be_v not_o so_o easy_a they_o and_o their_o favour_n be_v so_o enclose_v that_o man_n may_v long_o seek_v afore_o they_o find_v either_o they_o or_o it_o but_o god_n here_o be_v not_o so_o enclose_v as_o he_o will_v not_o be_v see_v nor_o speak_v to_o he_o be_v find_v of_o they_o that_o seek_v he_o and_o as_o hereby_o he_o honour_v himself_o so_o he_o high_o reward_v his_o servant_n for_o there_o be_v no_o great_a contentment_n to_o a_o subject_n then_o to_o perceive_v his_o service_n please_v his_o prince_n nor_o great_a joy_n then_o to_o find_v his_o gracious_a favour_n when_o they_o seek_v it_o let_v then_o this_o practice_n of_o the_o great_a god_n of_o heaven_n first_o of_o all_o teach_v the_o great_a one_o of_o this_o world_n to_o be_v willing_a to_o be_v find_v when_o they_o be_v seek_v unto_o thereby_o shall_v they_o honour_v themselves_o and_o cheer_v up_o the_o heart_n of_o their_o people_n who_o seek_v unto_o they_o and_o again_o it_o may_v be_v a_o rich_a comfort_n to_o the_o poor_a one_o of_o this_o earth_n who_o when_o they_o see_v they_o must_v long_o look_v and_o wait_v and_o pray_v and_o pay_v and_o seek_v the_o face_n and_o favour_n of_o great_a man_n and_o can_v find_v may_v then_o remember_v yet_o they_o have_v a_o god_n who_o will_v not_o shut_v the_o door_n upon_o they_o will_v not_o turn_v away_o will_v not_o keep_v secret_a will_v not_o fear_v they_o away_o with_o a_o rough_a answer_n or_o a_o sour_a look_n but_o have_v this_o honourable_a and_o princely_a grace_n he_o will_v be_v find_v of_o they_o that_o seek_v he_o second_o he_o reward_v they_o that_o seek_v he_o by_o bestow_v his_o love_n and_o favour_n on_o they_o not_o only_o he_o but_o his_o favour_n shall_v be_v find_v of_o all_o that_o seek_v he_o it_o be_v god_n favour_n that_o god_n child_n seek_v and_o his_o favour_n they_o shall_v be_v sure_a to_o find_v this_o be_v no_o small_a 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reward_n due_a for_o such_o service_n and_o therefore_o by_o their_o practice_n they_o make_v it_o a_o true_a say_n that_o it_o be_v good_a live_v a_o papist_n but_o die_v a_o protestant_n second_o if_o god_n be_v a_o rewarder_n of_o they_o that_o seek_v he_o then_o we_o see_v it_o be_v most_o true_a which_o the_o apostle_n say_v it_o be_v not_o in_o vain_a to_o serve_v god_n 1._o cor._n 15.58_o for_o god_n be_v a_o rewarder_n of_o they_o that_o seek_v and_o serve_v he_o therefore_o the_o atheist_n and_o profane_a man_n of_o this_o world_n who_o say_v 3.14_o it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o serve_v god_n and_o what_o profit_n
holy_a and_o frequent_a use_n of_o god_n word_n and_o sacrament_n and_o to_o none_o else_o and_o sure_o if_o the_o papist_n be_v as_o well_o acquaint_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n as_o they_o be_v with_o their_o own_o forge_a revelation_n they_o will_v never_o deny_v it_o by_o force_n of_o this_o testimony_n a_o christian_a man_n know_v as_o assure_o as_o that_o god_n be_v god_n that_o the_o pope_n as_o now_o he_o be_v and_o as_o he_o exercise_v his_o place_n and_o power_n can_v be_v the_o true_a vicar_n of_o christ_n and_o that_o popery_n as_o it_o be_v now_o establish_v by_o the_o council_n of_o trent_n and_o teach_v by_o the_o most_o learned_a of_o their_o side_n can_v be_v the_o true_a religion_n nor_o the_o safe_a way_n to_o heaven_n and_o when_o question_n be_v what_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o this_o place_n there_o be_v one_o god_n and_o one_o mediator_n betwixt_o god_n and_o man_n the_o man_n christ_n jesus_n if_o all_o the_o world_n shall_v say_v the_o contrary_a a_o christian_a man_n will_v know_v and_o believe_v there_o be_v no_o more_o mediator_n to_o god_n but_o christ_n or_o of_o that_o place_n that_o christ_n be_v offer_v for_o our_o sin_n once_o for_o all_o that_o there_o be_v no_o sacrifice_n can_v purchase_v we_o pardon_n but_o he_o let_v papist_n colour_v the_o matter_n by_o unsound_a distinction_n as_o much_o as_o they_o can_v &_o the_o same_o may_v be_v show_v in_o diverse_a other_o point_n and_o place_n and_o if_o any_o ask_v how_o this_o can_v be_v i_o answer_v noah_n be_v warn_v of_o god_n of_o thing_n not_o see_v so_o god_n child_n be_v warn_v and_o assure_v of_o god_n of_o such_o thing_n as_o concern_v their_o salvation_n though_o they_o be_v thing_n beyond_o sense_n and_o reason_n god_n secret_n do_v belong_v unto_o they_o the_o use_n of_o exhortation_n be_v that_o if_o god_n warn_v his_o child_n of_o his_o will_n &_o reveal_v his_o secret_n to_o they_o this_o shall_v move_v and_o excite_v we_o to_o become_v true_o and_o indeed_o god_n servant_n for_o we_o serve_v not_o a_o lord_n that_o be_v strange_a and_o austere_a unto_o we_o that_o will_v not_o give_v we_o a_o good_a look_n or_o a_o fair_a word_n nay_o he_o be_v so_o far_o from_o that_o that_o he_o call_v we_o to_o his_o holy_a counsel_n and_o make_v we_o know_v his_o secret_n and_o communicate_v his_o own_o self_n unto_o we_o by_o his_o bless_a spirit_n and_o by_o that_o spirit_n reveal_v unto_o we_o many_o excellent_a mystery_n of_o salvation_n which_o the_o carnal_a and_o profane_a man_n of_o the_o world_n never_o dream_v of_o in_o the_o second_o place_n let_v we_o observe_v that_o noah_n be_v thus_o warn_v of_o god_n in_o this_o particular_a matter_n as_o he_o have_v be_v former_o warn_v &_o teach_v of_o salvation_n by_o a_o messiah_n to_o come_v believe_v not_o only_o the_o general_a promise_n of_o salvation_n but_o also_o this_o particular_a promise_n of_o his_o preservation_n and_o deliverance_n out_o of_o which_o his_o practice_n we_o may_v learn_v two_o thing_n first_o that_o faith_n be_v a_o supernatural_a work_n of_o god_n in_o those_o man_n heart_n that_o have_v it_o that_o it_o be_v a_o work_n of_o god_n it_o appear_v in_o that_o it_o always_o acknowledge_v and_o believe_v god_n word_n that_o it_o be_v supernatural_a it_o appear_v in_o that_o it_o apprehend_v and_o believe_v whatsoever_o god_n word_n deliver_v be_v it_o never_o so_o incredible_a to_o reason_n or_o sense_n but_o how_o do_v god_n work_v this_o faith_n by_o his_o word_n for_o as_o god_n be_v the_o author_n and_o worker_n of_o faith_n so_o god_n have_v appoint_v a_o mean_n whereby_o he_o work_v it_o and_o that_o be_v his_o word_n which_o word_n of_o god_n be_v the_o only_a ordinary_a outward_a mean_n to_o work_v faith_n and_o that_o word_n of_o god_n be_v two_o way_n to_o be_v consider_v either_o as_o reveal_v by_o god_n himself_o as_o to_o noah_n here_o or_o else_o be_v write_v by_o god_n be_v either_o preach_v by_o his_o minister_n or_o read_v by_o a_o man_n self_n in_o want_n of_o preach_v and_o these_o be_v all_o one_o and_o be_v all_o mean_v ordain_v of_o god_n to_o work_v faith_n and_o that_o not_o only_o to_o begin_v it_o where_o it_o be_v want_v but_o to_o augment_v it_o where_o it_o be_v begin_v which_o be_v so_o it_o must_v teach_v we_o all_o not_o only_o with_o special_a care_n and_o reverence_n to_o hear_v the_o word_n by_o whosoever_o it_o be_v preach_v but_o also_o to_o hear_v it_o read_v yea_o to_o read_v it_o ourselves_o with_o all_o diligence_n so_o do_v it_o will_v work_v out_o and_o make_v perfect_a in_o we_o that_o holy_a faith_n which_o will_v make_v we_o bless_v in_o ourselves_o and_o accept_v of_o god_n as_o it_o do_v noah_n in_o this_o place_n second_o here_o we_o learn_v what_o be_v the_o whole_a object_n of_o faith_n or_o what_o be_v all_o that_o that_o faith_n believe_v namely_o nothing_o but_o god_n word_n and_o all_o and_o every_o word_n of_o god_n so_o that_o faith_n have_v two_o object_n differ_v not_o in_o nature_n but_o in_o degree_n principal_a and_o inferior_a the_o principal_a object_n of_o true_a faith_n be_v the_o promise_n of_o salvation_n by_o christ._n the_o inferior_a object_n thereof_o be_v all_o other_o particular_a promise_n of_o safety_n deliverance_n providence_n help_n assistance_n comfort_n or_o what_o other_o benefit_n soever_o be_v make_v either_o to_o the_o whole_a church_n and_o so_o inclusive_o to_o any_o particular_a man_n or_o which_o be_v personal_o make_v unto_o he_o for_o save_v faith_n believe_v not_o only_o the_o grand_a promise_n of_o salvation_n but_o all_o other_o promise_n either_o of_o spiritual_a or_o corporal_a blessing_n which_o be_v subordinate_a to_o the_o great_a promise_n and_o do_v depend_v of_o it_o and_o be_v therefore_o apprehend_v by_o the_o same_o faith_n so_o noah_n here_o have_v already_o apprehend_v the_o main_a promise_n of_o salvation_n by_o the_o messiah_n and_o have_v hide_v it_o in_o his_o heart_n and_o afterward_o when_o this_o particular_a promise_n of_o his_o deliverance_n be_v make_v by_o the_o same_o faith_n he_o lay_v hold_v on_o it_o also_o and_o it_o be_v good_a reason_n that_o faith_n shall_v do_v so_o for_o if_o it_o apprehend_v the_o great_a promise_n than_o no_o marvel_n though_o it_o take_v hold_v of_o all_o other_o inferior_a promise_n which_o be_v but_o dependence_n upon_o the_o principal_a by_o this_o that_o have_v be_v say_v it_o appear_v that_o we_o be_v wrongful_o charge_v by_o they_o who_o say_v we_o teach_v that_o save_a faith_n believe_v only_a salvation_n by_o christ_n or_o apprehend_v only_o the_o promise_n of_o salvation_n in_o christ_n for_o we_o say_v &_o teach_v it_o apprehend_v also_o other_o particular_a promise_n &_o even_o the_o promise_n of_o outward_a and_o temporal_a blessing_n as_o appear_v in_o this_o exsample_n of_o noah_n last_o in_o that_o noah_n a_o faithful_a man_n be_v here_o warn_v of_o god_n of_o the_o danger_n ensue_v that_o so_o he_o may_v avoid_v they_o we_o may_v learn_v the_o love_a care_n that_o god_n have_v over_o they_o who_o have_v a_o care_n to_o fear_v and_o serve_v he_o thus_o deal_v he_o with_o his_o child_n in_o all_o age_n for_o their_o comfort_n and_o preservation_n to_o encourage_v all_o man_n to_o serve_v god_n in_o truth_n and_o uprightness_n as_o here_o noah_n do_v for_o so_o do_v they_o may_v assure_v themselves_o of_o god_n care_n and_o providence_n over_o they_o even_o then_o when_o his_o wrath_n smoke_v against_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o world_n and_o that_o furthermore_o in_o all_o exigent_n and_o extremity_n he_o will_v â—each_v they_o either_o from_o his_o word_n or_o by_o the_o counsel_n of_o some_o other_o of_o his_o child_n or_o else_o by_o his_o own_o secret_a inspiration_n what_o they_o be_v to_o do_v and_o what_o course_n to_o take_v for_o their_o safety_n and_o deliverance_n how_o often_o shall_v a_o christian_a man_n find_v in_o the_o course_n of_o his_o life_n that_o god_n put_v into_o his_o mind_n to_o answer_v thus_o or_o thus_o or_o to_o foresee_v this_o or_o that_o by_o which_o his_o so_o do_v he_o escape_v some_o great_a danger_n so_o that_o though_o not_o in_o the_o same_o manner_n as_o noah_n be_v all_o faithful_a man_n do_v daily_o find_v that_o they_o be_v warn_v by_o god_n of_o such_o thing_n as_o do_v concern_v they_o but_o what_o be_v those_o thing_n whereof_o noah_n be_v warn_v from_o god_n the_o text_n say_v of_o the_o thing_n which_o be_v as_o yet_o not_o see_v this_o have_v not_o relation_n to_o the_o time_n when_o the_o holy_a ghost_n write_v these_o word_n but_o when_o god_n give_v the_o warning_n to_o noah_n for_o than_o they_o be_v not_o see_v but_o be_v to_o
world_n shall_v be_v destroy_v seem_v not_o possible_a to_o be_v because_o it_o never_o have_v be_v second_o it_o seem_v not_o likely_a that_o god_n mercy_n shall_v be_v so_o whole_o swallow_v up_o of_o his_o justice_n three_o they_o must_v live_v in_o the_o ark_n as_o in_o a_o close_a prison_n without_o comfort_n of_o light_n or_o fresh_a air_n and_o among_o beast_n of_o all_o sort_n and_o that_o for_o a_o long_a time_n he_o know_v not_o how_o long_o now_o reason_n will_v tell_v he_o he_o have_v better_o die_v with_o man_n then_o live_v with_o beast_n and_o better_o die_v a_o free_a man_n and_o at_o liberty_n then_o live_v a_o prisoner_n and_o better_o die_v with_o company_n then_o live_v alone_o and_o that_o if_o god_n have_v purpose_v to_o save_v he_o he_o can_v have_v use_v other_o mean_n and_o more_o easy_a more_o direct_a &_o more_o safe_a than_o this_o that_o therefore_o his_o deliverance_n be_v to_o be_v doubt_v of_o and_o last_o reason_n will_v say_v i_o may_v make_v myself_o a_o gaze_a and_o mock_v stock_n to_o the_o world_n for_o 120._o year_n and_o it_o may_v be_v then_o god_n purpose_n will_v be_v alter_v &_o no_o flood_n will_v come_v or_o if_o it_o come_v &_o i_o go_v into_o the_o ark_n and_o it_o chance_v to_o break_v against_o the_o mountain_n so_o that_o i_o perish_v with_o the_o rest_n then_o be_o i_o worst_a of_o all_o who_o perish_v notwithstanding_o all_o my_o labour_n therefore_o i_o have_v better_o let_v it_o alone_o and_o take_v my_o venture_n with_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o world_n these_o doubtless_o and_o many_o such_o natural_a consideration_n come_v into_o his_o mind_n and_o stand_v up_o as_o so_o many_o impediment_n of_o his_o faith_n but_o behold_v the_o power_n of_o true_a faith_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o a_o holy_a man_n it_o overgo_v all_o doubt_n it_o break_v through_o all_o difficulty_n to_o obey_v the_o will_n &_o word_n of_o god_n yea_o it_o gâ—ues_v a_o man_n wing_n with_o which_o to_o fly_v over_o all_o carnal_a objection_n thus_o we_o see_v it_o here_o in_o nooh_o and_o afterward_o shall_v as_o clear_o see_v it_o in_o abraham_n and_o other_o holy_a man_n the_o use_n of_o this_o doctrine_n discover_v the_o weakness_n of_o many_o man_n faith_n for_o if_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n go_v currant_n with_o our_o natural_a affection_n or_o seem_v plausible_a to_o our_o nature_n we_o do_v formal_o obey_v it_o but_o if_o it_o cross_v our_o affection_n or_o go_v beyond_o our_o reason_n or_o control_v our_o natural_a disposition_n than_o we_o spurn_v against_o it_o we_o call_v it_o into_o question_n we_o be_v offend_v at_o it_o and_o deny_v our_o obedience_n here_o want_v the_o faith_n of_o noah_n which_o carry_v he_o beyond_o the_o compass_n of_o nature_n and_o reach_v of_o reason_n and_o make_v he_o believe_v and_o do_v that_o which_o neither_o nature_n can_v allow_v nor_o reason_n like_o of_o &_o which_o will_v be_v displease_v to_o his_o natural_a affection_n let_v we_o therefore_o learn_v to_o practise_v true_a faith_n by_o believe_v forthwith_o what_o god_n shall_v say_v unto_o we_o without_o ask_v advice_n or_o hear_v the_o objection_n of_o flesh_n and_o blood_n god_n threaten_v in_o time_n past_o the_o overthrow_n of_o the_o great_a monarchy_n of_o the_o assyrian_n chaldean_n persian_n grecian_n roman_n reason_n do_v make_v doubt_n how_o it_o can_v be_v but_o faith_n believe_v it_o and_o it_o be_v do_v god_n in_o late_a time_n threaten_v the_o fall_n of_o abbey_n and_o disperse_v of_o monk_n for_o their_o wickedness_n it_o seem_v impossible_a to_o reason_n yet_o faith_n in_o some_o believe_v it_o and_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v god_n now_o threaten_v the_o ruin_n of_o babylon_n and_o the_o full_a revelation_n of_o antichrist_n and_o the_o overthrow_n of_o the_o new_a find_v hierarchy_n of_o the_o jesuit_n which_o glitter_v so_o in_o worldly_a glory_n and_o in_o outward_a strength_n this_o seem_v hard_a to_o bring_v to_o pass_v but_o let_v faith_n believe_v it_o for_o it_o be_v god_n word_n and_o shall_v be_v fulfil_v in_o his_o season_n god_n have_v say_v that_o our_o body_n shall_v rise_v again_o even_o these_o body_n which_o be_v burn_v to_o ash_n or_o eat_v of_o beast_n or_o fish_n or_o turn_v to_o dust_n in_o the_o earth_n this_o be_v a_o wonder_n to_o nature_n a_o amazement_n to_o reason_n but_o faith_n will_v believe_v it_o and_o shall_v find_v it_o true_a for_o god_n have_v say_v it_o god_n say_v christ_n be_v in_o the_o sacrament_n true_o and_o real_o present_a to_o the_o soul_n of_o a_o christian._n carnal_a sense_n deny_v this_o and_o natural_a reason_n know_v not_o how_o but_o ask_v with_o the_o capernait_n how_o can_v he_o give_v we_o his_o flesh_n to_o eat_v but_o faith_n believe_v it_o and_o know_v how_o though_o to_o outward_a sense_n it_o can_v be_v express_v and_o it_o be_v a_o holy_a and_o divine_a speech_n use_v by_o holy_a martyr_n who_o be_v ask_v how_o christ_n can_v be_v eat_v in_o the_o sacrament_n and_o not_o with_o the_o tooth_n answer_v my_o faith_n know_v how_o god_n say_v wicked_a man_n though_o they_o flourish_v never_o so_o be_v miserable_a and_o good_a man_n be_v bless_v above_o all_o other_o reason_n and_o worldly_a experience_n say_v this_o be_v false_a but_o true_a faith_n believe_v it_o and_o find_v it_o true_a for_o never_o do_v any_o child_n of_o god_n desire_v to_o change_v his_o estate_n with_o the_o mighty_a or_o wealthy_a wicked_a man_n in_o the_o world_n god_n say_v he_o that_o will_v follow_v christ_n must_v deny_v himself_o and_o his_o own_o desire_n and_o follow_v christ_n in_o bitterness_n and_o affliction_n nature_n say_v this_o be_v a_o hard_a lesson_n who_o can_v bear_v it_o but_o faith_n believe_v it_o yield_v to_o it_o and_o endeavour_n the_o practice_n of_o it_o because_o god_n have_v so_o command_v such_o be_v the_o power_n and_o excellency_n of_o true_a faith_n four_o and_o last_o out_o of_o this_o action_n and_o obedience_n of_o noah_n mark_v a_o special_a lesson_n god_n have_v reveal_v to_o he_o that_o he_o will_v save_v he_o and_o his_o family_n and_o assure_v he_o he_o shall_v not_o perish_v yet_o for_o all_o this_o he_o make_v a_o ark_n whereupon_o it_o follow_v that_o noah_n though_o he_o know_v god_n will_v save_v he_o yet_o be_v persuade_v he_o must_v use_v the_o mean_n or_o else_o shall_v not_o be_v save_v he_o may_v have_v say_v to_o himself_o god_n have_v say_v and_o bind_v himself_o by_o covenant_n he_o will_v save_v i_o now_o if_o i_o make_v not_o the_o ark_n yet_o his_o word_n be_v his_o word_n and_o he_o will_v stand_v to_o it_o his_o will_n can_v be_v alter_v though_o i_o be_v false_a he_o will_v be_v true_a though_o i_o do_v not_o that_o i_o shall_v do_v yet_o he_o will_v do_v what_o belong_v to_o he_o therefore_o i_o will_v spare_v my_o labour_n and_o cost_v of_o make_v the_o ark_n especial_o see_v it_o be_v a_o matter_n of_o so_o much_o mockery_n and_o so_o ridiculous_a to_o reason_n but_o noah_n be_v of_o another_o mind_n he_o will_v not_o sever_v god_n word_n from_o his_o mean_n he_o depend_v on_o god_n word_n for_o his_o safety_n but_o not_o on_o his_o bare_a word_n without_o the_o mean_n whence_o we_o learn_v that_o though_o a_o man_n be_v certain_a of_o his_o salvation_n yet_o he_o be_v to_o use_v the_o mean_n of_o salvation_n and_o that_o not_o only_o though_o he_o be_v certain_a in_o the_o certainty_n of_o faith_n but_o though_o he_o can_v be_v assure_v from_o god_n himself_o by_o immediate_a revelation_n for_o if_o god_n shall_v say_v to_o a_o man_n by_o his_o name_n thou_o shall_v be_v save_v it_o be_v no_o more_o than_o here_o be_v say_v to_o noah_n for_o his_o deliverance_n for_o to_o he_o say_v god_n i_o will_v destroy_v all_o flesh_n but_o with_o thou_o i_o will_v make_v my_o covenant_n and_o thou_o shall_v be_v deliver_v yet_o for_o all_o that_o noah_n judge_v that_o if_o he_o use_v not_o the_o mean_n if_o he_o make_v not_o a_o ark_n he_o be_v to_o look_v for_o no_o deliverance_n this_o be_v noah_n divinity_n contrary_a both_o to_o the_o divinity_n and_o practice_n of_o some_o in_o this_o age_n who_o say_v if_o i_o shall_v be_v save_v i_o may_v live_v as_o i_o list_v and_o though_o i_o live_v as_o i_o list_v yet_o if_o in_o the_o end_n i_o can_v say_v lord_n have_v mercy_n on_o i_o i_o be_o safe_a enough_o but_o noah_n will_v not_o trust_v his_o body_n on_o such_o condition_n though_o they_o be_v so_o presumptuous_a as_o to_o trust_v their_o soul_n let_v such_o man_n be_v assure_v god_n in_o his_o decree_n have_v tie_v the_o end_n and_o the_o mean_n together_o let_v not_o therefore_o man_n separate_v what_o god_n
of_o it_o the_o author_n and_o first_o deviser_n for_o noah_n make_v not_o this_o ark_n of_o his_o own_o head_n but_o as_o we_o hear_v before_o he_o be_v warn_v of_o god_n to_o do_v it_o and_o he_o be_v the_o first_o practiser_n for_o god_n himself_o perform_v all_o those_o service_n unto_o noah_n in_o the_o ark_n else_o it_o have_v never_o save_v he_o this_o be_v so_o it_o be_v the_o more_o grief_n to_o see_v that_o worthy_a call_n so_o abuse_v and_o debase_v as_o it_o be_v the_o most_o of_o they_o that_o practice_n it_o be_v profane_a ungodly_a and_o dissolute_a man_n such_o man_n shall_v remember_v god_n make_v the_o first_o ship_n and_o god_n be_v the_o first_o master_n and_o the_o first_o mariner_n the_o first_o pilot_n the_o first_o governor_n of_o a_o ship_n and_o they_o shall_v labour_v to_o be_v like_o he_o this_o be_v one_o of_o those_o few_o calling_n which_o may_v say_v god_n himself_o be_v the_o first_o deviser_n and_o practiser_n of_o it_o all_o calling_n can_v say_v so_o why_o then_o shall_v they_o so_o far_o forget_v who_o they_o succeed_v indeed_o upon_o the_o sea_n and_o in_o distress_n they_o will_v make_v some_o profession_n of_o religion_n but_o let_v they_o come_v ashore_o what_o swear_v what_o whore_v what_o drunkenness_n among_o they_o but_o let_v they_o be_v afraid_a to_o be_v so_o profane_a which_o hold_v the_o place_n which_o once_o god_n himself_o hold_v or_o else_o let_v they_o know_v they_o be_v unworthy_a of_o so_o good_a a_o call_n and_o thus_o we_o see_v the_o reason_n and_o the_o mean_n how_o the_o ark_n can_v save_v he_o and_o his_o household_n namely_o because_o god_n do_v govern_v it_o in_o the_o next_o place_n observe_v the_o end_n and_o use_v of_o the_o ark_n it_o be_v to_o save_v this_o holy_a man_n and_o his_o household_n learn_v here_o that_o god_n servant_n in_o common_a calamity_n have_v safety_n for_o god_n himself_o give_v they_o security_n and_o provide_v deliverance_n thus_o be_v it_o ever_o when_o god_n proceed_v in_o judgement_n against_o jerusalem_n for_o the_o sin_n thereof_o he_o mark_v the_o godly_a in_o their_o forehead_n namely_o such_o as_o mourn_v and_o cry_v for_o the_o abomination_n which_o be_v do_v against_o god_n ezech._n 9.4_o when_o sodom_n must_v be_v destroy_v righteous_a lot_n and_o his_o family_n must_v be_v draw_v out_o nay_o the_o angel_n can_v do_v nothing_o till_o he_o be_v safe_a genesis_n 19.16.22_o when_o the_o destroy_a angel_n go_v over_o the_o land_n of_o egypt_n and_o destroy_v the_o first_o bear_v in_o every_o house_n of_o the_o egyptian_n the_o israelite_n dwell_v among_o they_o he_o pass_v over_o all_o the_o israelite_n who_o door_n be_v sprinkle_v with_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o paschall_n lamb_n exodus_fw-la 12.13_o and_o even_o so_o he_o who_o heart_n and_o soul_n be_v sprinkle_v with_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n christ_n the_o lamb_n of_o god_n no_o calamity_n can_v do_v he_o hurt_v nay_o when_o other_o be_v smite_v he_o shall_v be_v deliver_v the_o use_n of_o this_o doctrine_n be_v to_o our_o church_n and_o state_n we_o have_v by_o god_n mercy_n long_o enjoy_v peace_n and_o the_o gospel_n and_o both_o under_o a_o gracious_a government_n and_o with_o these_o many_o other_o blessing_n yet_o speak_v truth_n and_o the_o sin_n of_o our_o time_n call_v for_o a_o flood_n as_o in_o noah_n time_n and_o sure_o a_o flood_n of_o tribulation_n must_v come_v one_o way_n or_o other_o for_o this_o be_v always_o the_o state_n of_o god_n church_n now_o peace_n now_o persecution_n peace_n abuse_v cause_v trouble_v and_o calamity_n therefore_o as_o we_o have_v so_o long_o have_v peace_n and_o ease_n so_o assure_o look_v for_o a_o flood_n what_o it_o will_v be_v or_o when_o know_v no_o man_n only_o he_o who_o will_v send_v it_o the_o righteous_a and_o almighty_a god_n how_o then_o shall_v we_o do_v when_o the_o flood_n of_o tribulation_n be_v upon_o we_o there_o be_v no_o way_n but_o one_o believe_v in_o christ_n jesus_n settle_v thy_o heart_n in_o true_a faith_n repent_v of_o thy_o sin_n get_v god_n favour_n and_o forgiveness_n and_o then_o when_o the_o flood_n come_v god_n providence_n shall_v afford_v thou_o one_o way_n or_o other_o a_o ark_n of_o safety_n and_o deliverance_n sprinkle_v thy_o soul_n now_o with_o christ_n blood_n by_o faith_n and_o true_a repentance_n and_o the_o destroy_a angel_n of_o god_n wrath_n shall_v pass_v over_o thou_o and_o thy_o household_n three_o observe_v the_o largeness_n of_o god_n bounty_n not_o only_o noah_n shall_v be_v save_v but_o with_o he_o his_o household_n also_o why_o the_o lord_n do_v so_o there_o be_v diverse_a reason_n first_o for_o the_o propagation_n and_o multiplication_n of_o the_o world_n after_o the_o flood_n if_o any_o object_n noah_n and_o his_o wife_n may_v have_v serve_v for_o that_o end_n i_o answer_v they_o be_v old_a for_o he_o be_v 600._o year_n old_a when_o the_o flood_n come_v and_o though_o he_o live_v 300._o year_n after_o the_o flood_n genesis_n 9.28_o yet_o read_v we_o not_o of_o any_o child_n that_o he_o have_v if_o any_o further_a object_n the_o first_o world_n be_v begin_v and_o multiply_v by_o two_o alone_a adam_z &_o eve_n &_o no_o more_o why_o then_o shall_v there_o be_v so_o many_o for_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o second_o world_n i_o answer_v god_n do_v so_o in_o the_o beginning_n to_o show_v that_o all_o mankind_n come_v of_o one_o blood_n acts._n 17.26_o and_o that_o in_o regard_n of_o body_n or_o birth_n there_o be_v no_o difference_n original_o betwixt_o man_n and_o man_n which_o also_o be_v observe_v even_o in_o the_o second_o beginning_n for_o though_o the_o world_n be_v multiply_v by_o three_o brethren_n shem_n cham_n and_o japheth_n yet_o those_o three_o be_v not_o stranger_n but_o all_o son_n to_o one_o man_n noah_n so_o that_o as_o at_o first_o by_o adam_n and_o eve_n so_o after_o from_o noah_n and_o his_o wife_n come_v all_o man_n in_o the_o world_n but_o in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o second_o world_n there_o must_v needs_o be_v more_o line_n than_o one_o because_o now_o the_o bless_a seed_n be_v promise_v who_o line_n and_o kindred_n must_v needs_o be_v keep_v distinct_a from_o all_o other_o until_o his_o incarnation_n again_o there_o be_v more_o cause_n now_o why_o the_o world_n shall_v be_v speedy_o replenish_v then_o at_o the_o beginning_n for_o first_o the_o earth_n have_v some_o glory_n and_o beauty_n leave_v it_o after_o the_o first_o curse_n so_o that_o it_o be_v still_o a_o most_o pleasant_a and_o delightful_a habitation_n to_o adam_n and_o eue._n but_o now_o by_o the_o second_o curse_n in_o the_o flood_n all_o her_o beauty_n be_v go_v she_o and_o all_o her_o glory_n be_v overrun_v spoil_v and_o deface_v so_o that_o it_o have_v be_v a_o miserable_a habitation_n for_o noah_n and_o his_o wife_n if_o they_o have_v be_v without_o company_n second_o the_o earth_n be_v much_o deface_v and_o the_o virtue_n of_o it_o almost_o quite_o perish_v by_o the_o flood_n have_v now_o more_o need_n to_o be_v recover_v by_o the_o hand_n and_o help_n of_o many_o man_n labour_n and_o to_o this_o purpose_n the_o scripture_n say_v gen._n 9.19_o &_o 10.32_o that_o the_o earth_n be_v divide_v among_o the_o three_o son_n of_o noah_n and_o they_o live_v not_o all_o together_o but_o overspread_v the_o earth_n and_o lest_o the_o beast_n which_o then_o be_v many_o shall_v overgrowe_v the_o world_n therefore_o god_n will_v have_v the_o earth_n speedy_o replenish_v &_o to_o that_o end_n noah_n &_o his_o wife_n have_v never_o a_o servant_n in_o the_o ark_n but_o only_o such_o as_o shall_v have_v child_n their_o 3._o son_n and_o their_o wife_n and_o thus_o the_o multiplication_n of_o mankind_n be_v the_o first_o cause_n why_o god_n save_v noah_n child_n the_o second_o cause_n it_o be_v likely_a that_o as_o himself_o be_v a_o righteous_a man_n so_o they_o of_o his_o family_n be_v more_o orderly_a and_o religious_a than_o other_o of_o that_o wicked_a age_n for_o good_a man_n make_v conscience_n of_o teach_v their_o family_n as_o abraham_n gen._n 18.18_o and_o see_v noah_n be_v commend_v for_o a_o just_a &_o good_a man_n doubtless_o he_o do_v careful_o instruct_v his_o household_n &_o therefore_o it_o be_v to_o be_v suppose_v that_o all_o or_o the_o most_o of_o they_o be_v holy_a and_o righteous_a person_n fear_v god_n three_o though_o all_o of_o they_o be_v not_o righteous_a yet_o they_o be_v all_o of_o the_o family_n of_o righteous_a noah_n and_o therefore_o for_o his_o sake_n they_o be_v save_v all_o be_v his_o child_n or_o his_o child_n wife_n for_o the_o righteous_a man_n procure_v blessing_n not_o on_o himself_o alone_o but_o on_o all_o that_o belong_v unto_o he_o dwell_v with_o he_o or_o be_v in_o his_o
or_o abrogater_n of_o the_o law_n but_o the_o fulfiller_n of_o it_o as_o the_o abrogater_n of_o the_o ceremonial_a so_o the_o fulfiller_n of_o the_o moral_a law_n if_o he_o fulfil_v the_o law_n for_o who_o be_v it_o not_o for_o himself_o for_o as_o the_o messiah_n be_v not_o slay_v for_o himself_o dan._n 9.26_o so_o he_o obey_v not_o the_o law_n for_o himself_o for_o who_o then_o for_o all_o that_o believe_v therefore_o christ_n do_v it_o for_o they_o they_o fulfil_v the_o law_n in_o christ_n and_o so_o christ_n by_o do_v and_o they_o by_o believe_v in_o he_o that_o do_v it_o do_v fulfil_v the_o law_n now_o if_o it_o be_v not_o amiss_o to_o say_v we_o do_v in_o christ_n fulfil_v the_o law_n no_o more_o be_v it_o to_o say_v we_o be_v make_v righteous_a by_o christ_n righteousness_n though_o it_o be_v he_o and_o not_o we_o but_o only_o by_o faith_n let_v we_o then_o see_v in_o the_o second_o place_n what_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n object_n against_o it_o they_o first_o object_v thus_o as_o a_o man_n can_v be_v wise_a by_o another_o man_n wisdom_n nor_o rich_a by_o another_o man_n riches_n nor_o strong_a by_o another_o man_n strength_n so_o can_v he_o not_o be_v righteous_a by_o another_o man_n righteousness_n i_o answer_v the_o comparison_n be_v not_o alike_o for_o one_o man_n have_v no_o propriety_n in_o another_o man_n wisdom_n strength_n or_o riches_n but_o we_o have_v a_o right_n and_o propriety_n in_o christ_n righteousness_n again_o the_o wisdom_n of_o one_o man_n can_v be_v the_o wisdom_n of_o another_o because_o they_o be_v two_o person_n full_o and_o equal_o distinct_a but_o it_o be_v not_o so_o betwixt_o christ_n and_o a_o sinner_n for_o every_o believer_n be_v spiritual_o and_o yet_o true_o and_o real_o conjoin_v to_o christ_n and_o they_o make_v one_o mystical_a body_n christ_n be_v the_o head_n and_o every_o true_a believer_n be_v a_o member_n of_o that_o body_n and_o therefore_o that_o which_o be_v his_o righteousness_n may_v be_v also_o true_o we_o he_o because_o it_o be_v in_o he_o and_o we_o because_o we_o be_v knit_v to_o he_o for_o by_o reason_n of_o this_o mystical_a union_n betwixt_o he_o and_o we_o all_o blessing_n of_o salvation_n in_o he_o as_o in_o the_o head_n be_v diffuse_v into_o we_o as_o his_o member_n or_o branch_n &_o yet_o be_v as_o proper_o still_o in_o he_o as_o be_v the_o brain_n in_o the_o head_n of_o a_o man_n and_o thus_o though_o in_o sense_n and_o reason_n this_o can_v be_v yet_o by_o faith_n and_o god_n spirit_n the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n be_v make_v we_o second_o they_o object_n if_o this_o be_v so_o then_o god_n justify_v wicked_a man_n but_o god_n will_v not_o do_v so_o it_o be_v against_o the_o nature_n of_o his_o holiness_n and_o justice._n and_o again_o he_o that_o justify_v the_o wicked_a be_v abominable_a to_o god_n prou._n 17.15_o therefore_o god_n will_v not_o do_v so_o himself_o we_o answer_v the_o ground_n be_v good_a but_o the_o collection_n be_v untrue_a god_n will_v not_o justify_v a_o wicked_a man_n that_o be_v true_a but_o that_o therefore_o a_o man_n can_v be_v justify_v by_o christ_n righteousness_n be_v false_a for_o god_n do_v not_o justify_v he_o that_o lie_v rot_v in_o his_o former_a sin_n and_o welter_v in_o his_o old_a corruption_n but_o he_o that_o believe_v in_o christ_n and_o repent_v of_o his_o sin_n and_o that_o man_n in_o his_o faith_n be_v justify_v and_o in_o his_o repentance_n sanctify_v and_o so_o he_o be_v make_v a_o new_a man_n yea_o as_o s._n paul_n say_v he_o that_o be_v in_o christ_n be_v a_o new_a creature_n 2._o corinth_n 5.17_o for_o as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o first_o conversion_n god_n turn_v nor_o save_v no_o man_n against_o his_o will_n but_o first_o make_v he_o willing_a by_o his_o own_o work_n alone_o and_o then_o convert_v and_o save_v he_o with_o his_o own_o free_a will_n work_v together_o with_o god_n grace_n so_o be_v it_o in_o the_o work_n of_o justification_n god_n justify_v no_o wicked_a man_n but_o make_v he_o first_o just_a and_o righteous_a in_o and_o by_o christ_n and_o then_o account_v he_o so_o but_o then_o will_n some_o say_v the_o sinner_n have_v no_o righteousness_n but_o that_o of_o christ_n and_o that_o be_v in_o christ_n and_o not_o in_o himself_o therefore_o he_o have_v none_o in_o his_o own_o person_n how_o then_o can_v he_o be_v any_o thing_n but_o a_o wicked_a man_n still_o i_o answer_v that_o be_v not_o true_a that_o be_v first_o affirm_v the_o believe_a sinner_n have_v more_o righteousness_n then_o that_o that_o be_v in_o christ._n that_o which_o justify_v he_o be_v in_o christ_n person_n but_o the_o sinner_n when_o he_o be_v justify_v be_v also_o sanctify_a by_o the_o mighty_a work_n of_o god_n grace_n and_o so_o he_o be_v make_v a_o holy_a man_n and_o do_v good_a and_o holy_a work_n because_o he_o be_v in_o christ_n though_o his_o sanctification_n be_v imperfect_a to_o this_o end_n say_v s._n peter_n act_n 15.9_o faith_n purify_v a_o man_n heart_n for_o it_o be_v impossible_a a_o man_n shall_v believe_v and_o so_o be_v justify_v but_o he_o must_v also_o be_v sanctify_v in_o his_o heart_n and_o life_n thus_o a_o sinner_n be_v justify_v by_o christ_n righteousness_n inherent_a in_o christ_n himself_o and_o sanctify_v by_o christ_n righteousness_n diffuse_v from_o christ_n into_o the_o sinner_n and_o therefore_o his_o justification_n be_v perfect_a because_o that_o that_o justify_v he_o be_v still_o in_o christ_n but_o his_o sanctification_n imperfect_a because_o that_o that_o sanctify_v we_o be_v in_o ourselves_o the_o one_o impute_v to_o we_o the_o other_o infuse_v and_o inherent_a again_o i_o answer_v that_o if_o we_o take_v it_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o scripture_n it_o be_v true_a that_o god_n justify_v a_o wicked_a man_n for_o s._n paul_n say_v rom._n 4._o to_o he_o that_o work_v not_o but_o believe_v in_o he_o that_o justify_v the_o ungodly_a his_o faith_n be_v count_v to_o he_o for_o righteousness_n see_v god_n justify_v the_o ungodly_a but_o how_o even_o as_o we_o hear_v before_o not_o he_o that_o be_v ungodly_a after_o but_o afore_o he_o be_v justify_v he_o that_o by_o nature_n and_o in_o himself_o be_v ungodly_a god_n justify_v by_o work_v in_o he_o faith_n and_o repentance_n by_o which_o of_o a_o ungodly_a man_n he_o be_v make_v a_o man_n justify_v and_o sanctify_v their_o last_o objection_n be_v if_o a_o sinner_n be_v righteous_a by_o christ_n righteousness_n than_o christ_n be_v a_o sinner_n by_o his_o sin_n for_o there_o be_v the_o same_o reason_n of_o both_o but_o christ_n be_v no_o sinner_n but_o the_o holy_a of_o holy_a and_o s._n paul_n say_v he_o know_v no_o sin_n 1._o cor._n 5._o and_o himself_z for_o himself_o challenge_v his_o enemy_n which_o of_o you_o can_v reprove_v i_o of_o sin_n if_o then_o our_o sin_n can_v make_v he_o a_o sinner_n no_o more_o can_v his_o righteousness_n make_v we_o righteous_a i_o answer_v here_o we_o grant_v all_o if_o they_o speak_v the_o word_n of_o the_o scripture_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o scripture_n for_o christ_n be_v a_o true_a and_o repute_a sinner_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n justice_n as_o he_o that_o become_v surety_n for_o another_o be_v a_o debtor_n in_o his_o room_n or_o as_o he_o that_o undertake_v for_o a_o man_n body_n for_o body_n must_v answer_v for_o he_o his_o own_o body_n for_o he_o so_o in_o all_o reason_n and_o justice_n christ_n though_o he_o have_v no_o sin_n of_o his_o own_o yet_o be_v our_o surety_n and_o undertake_v for_o we_o and_o stand_v in_o our_o stead_n our_o sin_n be_v just_o account_v his_o and_o as_o for_o these_o place_n &_o many_o more_o like_a they_o be_v all_o understand_v of_o personal_a sin_n from_o all_o which_o and_o the_o least_o contagion_n thereof_o he_o be_v perfect_o free_a and_o therefore_o the_o same_o place_n that_o say_v he_o know_v no_o sin_n that_o be_v in_o &_o for_o his_o own_o person_n know_v not_o what_o sin_n be_v say_v also_o that_o for_o we_o &_o in_o our_o stead_n he_o be_v make_v even_o sin_n itself_o that_o we_o may_v be_v make_v the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n in_o he_o thus_o christ_n in_o himself_o more_o righteous_a than_o all_o man_n &_o angel_n in_o our_o stead_n be_v a_o repute_a sinner_n and_o by_o the_o same_o reason_n we_o most_o unrighteous_a in_o ourselves_o be_v clothe_v with_o christ_n righteousness_n and_o thereby_o be_v repute_v righteous_a and_o as_o christ_n though_o no_o sinner_n in_o himself_o by_o be_v a_o sinner_n in_o our_o stead_n and_o have_v our_o sin_n impute_v unto_o he_o become_v subject_a to_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n and_o bear_v it_o even_o to_o death_n itself_o so_o we_o though_o not_o
righteous_a of_o ourselves_o yet_o have_v christ_n righteousness_n impute_v to_o we_o be_v make_v thereby_o partaker_n of_o god_n love_n and_o for_o the_o worthiness_n of_o that_o righteousness_n of_o he_o so_o make_v we_o shall_v be_v glorify_v in_o heaven_n and_o thus_o now_o at_o last_o we_o have_v find_v that_o true_a and_o that_o only_a righteousness_n which_o can_v make_v a_o man_n as_o it_o do_v noah_n righteous_a in_o god_n sight_n now_o it_o remain_v to_o make_v use_n of_o it_o first_o here_o we_o learn_v how_o foul_o our_o nature_n be_v defile_v with_o sin_n and_o stain_a with_o corruption_n the_o stain_n whereof_o can_v be_v wash_v away_o with_o all_o the_o water_n in_o the_o world_n no_o nor_o with_o the_o blood_n of_o all_o creature_n no_o not_o cover_v with_o the_o righteousness_n of_o all_o man_n and_o angel_n but_o only_o with_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n and_o that_o son_n of_o god_n also_o if_o he_o will_v apply_v that_o righteousness_n unto_o we_o and_o make_v it_o effectual_a must_v become_v man_n and_o live_v and_o die_v and_o rise_v again_o for_o us._n a_o marvellous_a thing_n be_v it_o and_o â—orthy_a of_o our_o often_o consideration_n that_o all_o the_o angel_n and_o man_n in_o the_o world_n can_v make_v one_o sinner_n righteous_a but_o that_o god_n son_n must_v needs_o do_v it_o and_o that_o our_o sin_n be_v so_o hideous_a as_o nothing_o can_v hide_v the_o filthiness_n thereof_o from_o the_o eye_n of_o god_n justice_n but_o only_o the_o glorious_a mercy_n seat_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n this_o may_v therefore_o teach_v we_o how_o to_o esteem_v of_o ourselves_o and_o our_o own_o nature_n furthermore_n see_v here_o the_o great_a goodness_n of_o god_n to_o man_n god_n put_v perfect_a legal_a righteousness_n in_o adam_n heart_n in_o his_o creation_n he_o receive_v it_o for_o himself_o and_o we_o and_o lose_v it_o for_o himself_o and_o us._n god_n in_o mercy_n purpose_v to_o restore_v man_n thus_o by_o himself_o lose_v and_o cast_v away_o give_v he_o another_o and_o a_o better_a righteousness_n than_o before_o but_o because_o he_o see_v man_n be_v so_o ill_a a_o keeper_n of_o his_o own_o jewel_n he_o trust_v not_o he_o with_o it_o but_o set_v that_o righteousness_n in_o the_o person_n of_o christ_n jesus_n and_o commit_v it_o to_o he_o to_o keep_v who_o as_o he_o true_o know_v the_o full_a value_n and_o excellency_n thereof_o and_o as_o he_o dear_o love_v we_o so_o he_o will_v most_o safe_o keep_v it_o for_o we_o and_o clothe_v we_o with_o it_o in_o his_o father_n presence_n at_o the_o last_o day_n a_o point_n of_o unspeakable_a comfort_n to_o god_n child_n to_o consider_v that_o their_o salvation_n be_v not_o in_o their_o own_o keep_n where_o it_o may_v again_o be_v lose_v but_o in_o a_o safe_a hand_n where_o they_o shall_v be_v sure_a to_o find_v and_o have_v it_o when_o they_o have_v most_o need_n of_o it_o and_o to_o remember_v that_o their_o righteousness_n be_v in_o christ_n they_o can_v lose_v it_o for_o though_o they_o sin_n and_o so_o lose_v often_o the_o comfort_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n for_o a_o time_n yet_o they_o then_o lose_v not_o their_o righteousness_n which_o be_v then_o in_o christ_n and_o to_o consider_v that_o when_o in_o this_o world_n they_o sustain_v loss_n or_o injury_n or_o lose_v all_o they_o have_v upon_o the_o earth_n that_o yet_o their_o righteousness_n the_o riches_n of_o their_o soul_n be_v then_o in_o heaven_n full_a safe_a in_o christ_n keep_n and_o shall_v never_o be_v lose_v this_o shall_v make_v we_o learn_v to_o know_v christ_n more_o and_o more_o and_o to_o give_v he_o the_o love_n and_o affection_n of_o our_o very_a heart_n that_o so_o we_o may_v be_v able_a to_o say_v with_o bless_a paul_n 2._o timoth._n 1.12_o i_o know_v who_o i_o have_v believe_v and_o i_o be_o persuade_v that_o he_o be_v able_a to_o keep_v that_o which_o i_o have_v commit_v unto_o he_o against_o that_o day_n last_o if_o there_o be_v such_o a_o communion_n betwixt_o christ_n and_o a_o believer_n that_o our_o sin_n be_v make_v he_o and_o his_o righteousness_n make_v we_o this_o may_v teach_v we_o patience_n and_o minister_v we_o comfort_v in_o all_o outward_a affliction_n or_o inward_a temptation_n because_o it_o be_v certain_a all_o our_o suffering_n be_v he_o and_o he_o be_v touch_v with_o all_o the_o wrong_n do_v to_o us._n when_o he_o be_v in_o heaven_n he_o call_v to_o saul_n act_v 9.4_o saul_n saul_n why_o persecute_v thou_o i_o and_o at_o the_o last_o day_n math._n 25.45_o whatsoever_o either_o good_a or_o evil_n be_v do_v to_o any_o of_o his_o child_n he_o say_v be_v do_v to_o himself_o and_o according_o it_o shall_v be_v reward_v as_o do_v to_o he_o and_o thus_o we_o have_v teach_v that_o true_a righteousness_n which_o justify_v a_o sinner_n and_o make_v noah_n righteous_a and_o we_o see_v the_o use_n of_o that_o worthy_a doctrine_n and_o in_o this_o first_o point_n we_o have_v the_o long_o insist_v because_o it_o be_v one_o of_o the_o fundamental_a point_n of_o christian_a religion_n hitherto_o of_o the_o first_o point_n namely_o what_o that_o righteousness_n be_v which_o be_v here_o speak_v of_o the_o 2._o point_n to_o be_v consider_v in_o these_o word_n be_v that_o this_o righteousness_n be_v that_o righteousness_n which_o be_v by_o faith_n it_o be_v so_o call_v because_o faith_n be_v the_o proper_a instrument_n create_v in_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n to_o apprehend_v that_o righteousness_n which_o be_v in_o the_o person_n of_o christ_n nor_o can_v it_o be_v any_o way_n else_o either_o apprehend_v or_o apply_v and_o therefore_o it_o be_v worthy_o call_v that_o righteousness_n which_o be_v by_o faith_n that_o be_v which_o by_o faith_n be_v make_v a_o man_n own_o or_o whereunto_o a_o man_n have_v title_n by_o his_o faith_n here_o therefore_o two_o point_n offer_v themselves_o to_o our_o observation_n 1._o that_o true_a faith_n apprehend_v proper_o this_o true_a righteousness_n 2._o that_o only_a faith_n can_v do_v it_o for_o the_o first_o it_o be_v prove_v by_o apparent_a evidence_n of_o scripure_a s._n paul_n tell_v the_o galatian_n 3.14_o they_o receive_v the_o promise_n of_o the_o spirit_n by_o faith_n and_o s._n john_n say_v that_o as_o many_o as_o receive_v christ_n to_o they_o he_o give_v power_n to_o be_v call_v the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o lest_o any_o man_n shall_v think_v that_o to_o receive_v christ_n be_v not_o to_o believe_v in_o christ_n he_o add_v even_o to_o as_o many_o as_o believe_v in_o his_o name_n john_n 1.12_o and_o therefore_o faith_n be_v fit_o compare_v to_o a_o hand_n that_o take_v hold_v on_o a_o garment_n and_o apply_v it_o to_o the_o body_n be_v naked_a or_o to_o a_o beggar_n hand_n that_o take_v or_o receive_v a_o king_n alm_n so_o faith_n in_o a_o man_n soul_n take_v hold_v on_o christ_n righteousness_n which_o be_v the_o merciful_a and_o liberal_a alm_n of_o the_o king_n of_o heaven_n and_o apply_v it_o to_o the_o poor_a and_o naked_a soul_n of_o the_o believer_n if_o any_o man_n ask_v how_o can_v faith_n apply_v christ_n to_o the_o believer_n i_o answer_v as_o a_o man_n be_v in_o his_o corrupt_a nature_n have_v nothing_o to_o do_v with_o christ_n so_o contrariwise_o when_o the_o holy_a ghost_n have_v wrought_v faith_n in_o his_o heart_n by_o a_o supernatural_a operation_n then_o we_o be_v to_o know_v that_o as_o faith_n be_v the_o proper_a instrument_n to_o apprehend_v christ_n so_o be_v christ_n and_o his_o righteousness_n the_o proper_a object_n for_o faith_n to_o work_v upon_o for_o though_o it_o apprehend_v &_o apply_v all_o other_o promise_n which_o god_n make_v to_o our_o soul_n or_o body_n yet_o most_o proper_o and_o principal_o and_o in_o the_o first_o place_n it_o apprehend_v the_o promise_n of_o salvation_n and_o the_o righteousness_n of_o christ._n now_o for_o the_o particular_a manner_n how_o faith_n do_v thus_o we_o be_v to_o know_v that_o though_o it_o be_v spiritual_a &_o invisible_a and_o so_o not_o easy_o express_v to_o sense_n yet_o be_v it_o do_v as_o proper_o by_o faith_n as_o a_o garment_n be_v by_o the_o hand_n take_v and_o apply_v to_o the_o body_n or_o a_o plaster_n to_o a_o sore_n if_o any_o ask_v further_o but_o when_o may_v a_o man_n know_v whether_o his_o faith_n have_v apprehend_v and_o apply_v christ_n righteousness_n to_o his_o soul_n or_o no_o i_o answer_v when_o he_o believe_v particular_o that_o christ_n righteousness_n be_v his_o righteousness_n and_o have_v reconcile_v he_o to_o god_n and_o shall_v justify_v he_o in_o god_n presence_n then_o do_v faith_n work_v his_o true_a and_o proper_a work_n for_o this_o can_v be_v do_v but_o by_o faith_n and_o where_o faith_n be_v this_o must_v needs_o be_v do_v
this_o commandment_n be_v personal_o direct_v to_o abraham_n and_o concern_v not_o we_o as_o it_o do_v he_o yet_o it_o have_v his_o force_n and_o use_v even_o to_o us._n for_o though_o we_o be_v not_o to_o go_v out_o of_o our_o country_n and_o leave_v our_o live_n and_o habitation_n yet_o we_o must_v do_v that_o that_o be_v proportionable_a hereunto_o that_o which_o be_v command_v to_o salomon_n wife_n be_v to_o all_o christian_n harken_v o_o daughter_n and_o consider_v incline_v thy_o ear_n forget_v thy_o own_o kindred_n and_o thy_o father_n house_n so_o shall_v the_o king_n take_v pleasure_n in_o thy_o beauty_n psalm_n 45.10.11_o this_o wife_n of_o solomon_n be_v the_o soul_n of_o every_o christian_a the_o spouse_n of_o christ_n the_o true_a solomon_n who_o by_o nature_n be_v daughter_n to_o heathen_a pharaoh_n that_o be_v to_o sin_n corruption_n and_o wrath_n but_o be_v marry_v to_o christ_n must_v forget_v she_o own_o kindred_n and_o father_n house_n that_o be_v their_o own_o nature_n and_o natural_a affection_n and_o carnal_a desire_n and_o then_o shall_v christ_n our_o king_n and_o spiritual_a husband_n take_v pleasure_n in_o we_o and_o rejoice_v to_o do_v we_o good_a and_o this_o be_v the_o chief_a travail_v of_o all_o and_o most_o acceptable_a to_o god_n when_o a_o man_n go_v out_o of_o himself_o and_o deny_v his_o own_o desire_n to_o obey_v god_n and_o to_o serve_v christ_n jesus_n thus_o we_o see_v the_o matter_n of_o his_o obedience_n now_o follow_v the_o end_n which_o he_o shall_v after_o receive_v for_o inheritance_n the_o second_o particular_a in_o his_o obedience_n be_v the_o end_n why_o he_o go_v out_o of_o his_o own_o country_n namely_o to_o inherit_v another_o that_o be_v the_o land_n of_o canaan_n call_v elsewhere_o the_o land_n of_o promise_n because_o god_n promise_v it_o unto_o he_o and_o to_o his_o â—eed_n now_o abraham_n at_o god_n commandment_n go_v out_o of_o his_o own_o country_n into_o this_o place_n to_o inherit_v it_o and_o to_o take_v possession_n of_o it_o but_o it_o may_v be_v object_v he_o inherit_v it_o not_o yea_o furthermore_o stephen_n say_v act._n 7.4_o god_n bring_v he_o in_o but_o give_v he_o no_o inheritance_n in_o it_o no_o not_o the_o breadth_n of_o a_o foot_n i_o answer_v though_o abraham_n do_v not_o inherit_v it_o personal_o himself_o yet_o he_o may_v be_v say_v to_o inherit_v it_o two_o way_n 1._o sacramental_o or_o mystical_o 2._o in_o his_o posterity_n first_o sacramental_o thus_o the_o land_n of_o canaan_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v not_o only_o as_o a_o country_n of_o asia_n fruitful_a and_o fertile_a and_o plentiful_a of_o all_o good_a thing_n wherein_o the_o only_a visible_a church_n be_v confirm_v till_o christ_n come_n but_o further_a as_o a_o type_n of_o the_o heavenly_a canaan_n where_o the_o triumphant_a church_n reign_v in_o glory_n with_o god_n and_o thus_o abraham_n do_v in_o his_o own_o person_n inherit_v it_o for_o he_o be_v translate_v from_o this_o world_n after_o his_o death_n into_o the_o glory_n of_o heaven_n and_o in_o that_o respect_n the_o glory_n of_o heaven_n be_v rather_o call_v the_o bosom_n of_o abraham_n luke_n 16_o then_o of_o any_o other_o the_o patriarch_n both_o for_o the_o excellency_n of_o his_o faith_n as_o also_o for_o that_o the_o promise_n of_o inherit_v the_o land_n of_o canaan_n be_v first_o of_o all_o personal_o make_v to_o he_o which_o because_o he_o enjoy_v not_o he_o be_v recompense_v with_o the_o fruition_n of_o the_o true_a cannaan_n from_o hence_o we_o learn_v a_o notable_a doctrine_n that_o god_n in_o perform_v of_o his_o promise_n give_v not_o oftentimes_o the_o very_a particular_a thing_n promise_v but_o something_o equivalent_a or_o proportionable_a to_o it_o or_o else_o better_a thus_o in_o the_o five_o commandment_n obedient_a child_n be_v promise_v by_o god_n long_a life_n as_o a_o reward_n for_o honour_v their_o parent_n now_o when_o he_o take_v they_o away_o in_o their_o best_a age_n as_o he_o do_v josias_n 2._o king_n 22.10_o he_o give_v they_o eternal_a life_n which_o be_v not_o only_o proportionable_a but_o far_o exceed_v the_o thing_n promise_v so_o here_o he_o promise_v abraham_n the_o land_n of_o canaan_n but_o when_o it_o come_v to_o the_o performance_n he_o give_v he_o a_o better_a even_o the_o true_a canaan_n the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n the_o use_n hereof_o be_v to_o teach_v we_o wisdom_n for_o the_o true_a discern_v of_o god_n merciful_a performance_n of_o his_o promise_n for_o he_o perform_v they_o not_o always_o one_o way_n unto_o his_o child_n sometime_o he_o give_v the_o very_a particular_a thing_n promise_v as_o unto_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n their_o deliverance_n out_o of_o egypt_n unto_o hezekiah_n the_o restore_n of_o his_o health_n and_o such_o like_a sometime_o he_o give_v not_o it_o but_o something_o which_o shall_v be_v as_o good_a or_o better_a unto_o his_o child_n as_o when_o they_o be_v in_o some_o great_a danger_n and_o crave_v deliverance_n or_o in_o some_o necessity_n and_o have_v promise_n of_o supply_n god_n oftentimes_o deliver_v they_o not_o but_o give_v they_o patience_n and_o feel_v of_o his_o favour_n in_o such_o sort_n as_o be_v many_o degree_n more_o comfortable_a unto_o they_o and_o herein_o god_n hear_v their_o prayer_n and_o perform_v his_o promise_n to_o they_o to_o their_o full_a contentation_n second_o abraham_n inherit_v canaan_n in_o his_o posterity_n for_o though_o god_n promise_v it_o to_o himself_o when_o he_o be_v 75._o year_n old_a gen._n 12.4_o and_o to_o he_o and_o to_o his_o seed_n gen._n 15.7_o yet_o neither_o he_o nor_o his_o immediate_a seed_n enjoy_v it_o but_o his_o posterity_n the_o israelite_n 430._o year_n after_o the_o promise_n as_o s._n paul_n prove_v galath_n 3.17_o and_o so_o abraham_n inherit_v it_o in_o his_o posterity_n which_o be_v a_o part_n of_o he_o and_o they_o inherit_v it_o many_o hundred_o year_n even_o until_o the_o come_n of_o christ._n as_o afore_o we_o learn_v that_o god_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o his_o promise_n give_v not_o always_o the_o thing_n promise_v so_o here_o let_v we_o learn_v that_o he_o do_v not_o always_o perform_v they_o to_o the_o same_o party_n and_o yet_o most_o true_o perform_v they_o if_o therefore_o god_n do_v not_o to_o ourselves_o nor_o in_o our_o time_n accomplish_v his_o promise_n or_o prophecy_n we_o must_v not_o be_v impatient_a but_o wait_v in_o patience_n for_o as_o the_o holy_a prophet_n say_v the_o vision_n be_v yet_o for_o a_o appoint_a time_n but_o at_o the_o last_o it_o shall_v speak_v and_o not_o lie_v though_o it_o tarry_v wait_v for_o it_o it_o shall_v sure_o come_v and_o shall_v not_o stay_v habba_n 2.3_o to_o this_o end_n david_n also_o most_o divine_o say_v psalm_n 97.11_o light_n be_v sow_v for_o the_o righteous_a and_o joy_n for_o the_o upright_o in_o heart_n see_v light_n and_o joy_n belong_v unto_o they_o but_o how_o it_o be_v sow_v that_o be_v it_o be_v in_o hope_n and_o expectation_n and_o not_o always_o in_o fruition_n therefore_o as_o the_o husbandman_n cast_v his_o seed_n into_o the_o earth_n and_o be_v content_a to_o stay_v almost_o a_o full_a year_n without_o it_o or_o any_o profit_n of_o it_o and_o yet_o be_v patient_a all_o that_o while_n because_o he_o be_v sure_a it_o will_v come_v &_o bring_v increase_n with_o it_o so_o must_v we_o wait_v patient_o on_o the_o lord_n and_o know_v that_o whatsoever_o he_o have_v promise_v we_o or_o we_o after_o we_o shall_v be_v sure_a to_o enjoy_v it_o and_o though_o we_o do_v not_o what_o great_a matter_n be_v it_o if_o our_o child_n do_v for_o we_o know_v that_o oftentimes_o the_o father_n sow_v and_o die_v ere_o the_o harvest_n and_o so_o the_o son_n reap_v so_o for_o god_n great_a and_o gracious_a promise_n which_o be_v sow_v unto_o the_o father_n if_o themselves_o do_v not_o their_o child_n be_v sure_a to_o reap_v the_o comfortable_a harvest_n of_o performance_n and_o thus_o we_o see_v how_o abraham_n inherit_v the_o land_n of_o canaan_n which_o be_v call_v the_o land_n of_o promise_n because_o it_o be_v so_o long_o and_o so_o often_o promise_v to_o so_o many_o great_a patriarch_n in_o the_o second_o place_n it_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v when_o god_n promise_v this_o unto_o abraham_n even_o then_o when_o the_o land_n of_o canaan_n be_v possess_v by_o many_o mighty_a king_n so_o that_o it_o may_v be_v here_o further_o doubt_v how_o abraham_n can_v take_v any_o comfort_n in_o this_o promise_n see_v it_o be_v at_o that_o day_n hold_v by_o almost_o 40._o king_n great_a and_o less_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o joshua_n chap._n 10.11.12_o and_o further_o the_o people_n be_v many_o and_o strong_a the_o city_n be_v strong_a wall_v and_o full_a of_o huge_a giant_n numb_a 13.28.29_o yet_o for_o all_o this_o he_o
a_o city_n also_o and_o the_o best_a on_o earth_n be_v but_o shadow_n of_o it_o and_o it_o may_v shame_v they_o that_o be_v drown_v in_o the_o pleasure_n and_o delicacy_n of_o earthly_a city_n and_o care_v not_o nor_o look_v after_o the_o city_n of_o the_o live_a god_n the_o heavenly_a jerusalem_n as_o it_o be_v call_v heb._n 12.22_o but_o alas_o it_o seem_v they_o care_v not_o for_o this_o shame_n for_o where_o be_v security_n wantonness_n profaneness_n oppression_n so_o common_a as_o in_o these_o great_a city_n and_o as_o in_o the_o apostle_n time_n the_o country_n town_n berea_n be_v more_o zealous_a and_o religious_a than_o the_o rich_a and_o stately_a city_n of_o thessalonica_n act_n 17.11_o so_o be_v it_o general_o to_o this_o day_n especial_o at_o such_o place_n in_o the_o country_n where_o teach_v and_o knowledge_n be_v but_o let_v such_o city_n know_v that_o as_o they_o have_v better_a mean_n &_o more_o comfort_n and_o their_o very_a name_n shall_v put_v they_o in_o mind_n and_o make_v they_o in_o love_n with_o heaven_n so_o they_o shall_v receive_v great_a damnation_n last_o city_n be_v place_n of_o freedom_n and_o all_o such_o great_a place_n have_v some_o notable_a privilege_n therefore_o man_n desire_v to_o be_v free_a in_o such_o place_n as_o be_v to_o be_v see_v in_o london_n rome_n venice_n etc._n etc._n even_o the_o great_a person_n will_v be_v content_a to_o be_v free_a of_o they_o and_o many_o seek_v it_o and_o pay_v dear_a for_o it_o or_o at_o least_o work_v a_o long_a time_n for_o it_o but_o heaven_n be_v the_o city_n of_o city_n the_o perfection_n of_o beauty_n and_o true_a happiness_n therefore_o let_v every_o one_o that_o desire_v either_o honour_n or_o happiness_n labour_n and_o strive_v to_o be_v a_o freeman_n of_o heaven_n and_o never_o rest_v till_o he_o know_v he_o be_v and_o let_v those_o that_o live_v in_o city_n when_o they_o be_v admit_v freeman_n as_o daily_o some_o be_v remember_v what_o a_o blessedness_n it_o will_v be_v if_o they_o can_v be_v admit_v freeman_n of_o the_o glorious_a city_n which_o be_v above_o and_o how_o little_a that_o shall_v avail_v they_o if_o they_o want_v this_o which_o be_v the_o hope_n and_o joy_n of_o abraham_n and_o all_o holy_a man_n to_o go_v further_o this_o city_n which_o abraham_n faith_n wait_v for_o be_v describe_v by_o two_o point_n 1._o that_o it_o have_v a_o foundation_n 2._o that_o the_o maker_n and_o builder_n be_v god_n for_o the_o first_o heavenly_a jerusalem_n have_v a_o foundation_n such_o a_o one_o as_o no_o city_n in_o this_o world_n have_v &_o by_o this_o phrase_n the_o holy_a ghost_n insinuate_v unto_o we_o what_o be_v the_o property_n of_o heaven_n which_o be_v two_o 1._o the_o state_n of_o heaven_n be_v unchangeable_a 2._o everlasting_a and_o eternal_a first_o the_o state_n of_o the_o elect_a in_o heaven_n &_o their_o glory_n there_o be_v not_o subject_a to_o corruption_n or_o the_o least_o alteration_n as_o appear_v in_o that_o notable_a and_o lofty_a description_n of_o the_o heavenly_a jerusalem_n apoc._n 21.14_o and_o from_o the_o 10._o verse_n to_o the_o 21_o it_o have_v a_o great_a wall_n and_o high_a 12._o gate_n 12._o angel_n for_o porter_n and_o the_o wall_n have_v 12._o foundation_n of_o 12._o sort_n of_o most_o excellent_a precious_a stone_n and_o the_o wall_n itself_o be_v jasper_n and_o the_o city_n pure_a gold_n like_a crystal_n the_o state_n of_o it_o be_v shadow_v by_o precious_a stone_n and_o gold_n to_o signify_v as_o well_o the_o durableness_n as_o the_o excellency_n thereof_o and_o in_o the_o 15._o psalm_n vers_fw-la 1._o it_o be_v call_v the_o mountain_n of_o god_n holiness_n hill_n be_v hardly_o remove_v and_o therefore_o david_n say_v that_o mount_n zion_n can_v be_v remove_v but_o remain_v for_o ever_o psal._n 125.1_o now_o if_o that_o be_v true_a of_o mount_n zion_n in_o this_o world_n which_o must_v needs_o be_v take_v either_o literal_o for_o the_o state_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n which_o can_v be_v utter_o overthrow_v or_o mystical_o for_o the_o state_n of_o god_n grace_n which_o in_o this_o world_n can_v total_o &_o final_o be_v lose_v i_o say_v if_o this_o mount_n zion_n stand_v fast_o and_o can_v be_v remove_v how_o much_o more_o true_a iâ—_n it_o of_o the_o state_n of_o glory_n in_o heaven_n and_o of_o the_o triumphant_a church_n and_o of_o heavenly_a zion_n that_o it_o be_v so_o unchangeable_a so_o durable_a so_o unremovable_a that_o it_o can_v be_v shake_v but_o stand_v fast_o for_o ever_o and_o in_o this_o respect_n well_o may_v the_o apostle_n say_v here_o it_o have_v a_o foundation_n which_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o the_o revelation_n say_v to_o have_v 12._o foundation_n second_o the_o state_n of_o the_o elect_a in_o heaven_n be_v not_o only_o sure_a but_o everlasting_a that_o be_v without_o end_n psal._n 37.18_o the_o inheritance_n of_o holy_a man_n be_v perpetual_a and_o therefore_o s._n peter_n 1.1.4_o say_v that_o the_o inheritance_n reserve_v in_o heaven_n for_o we_o be_v immortal_a &_o not_o fade_v away_o it_o fade_v not_o away_o there_o be_v the_o unchangeableness_n it_o be_v immortal_a there_o be_v the_o eternity_n of_o it_o and_o this_o be_v mean_v by_o have_v a_o foundation_n for_o in_o this_o world_n so_o much_o the_o long_o do_v any_o thing_n endure_v as_o the_o foundation_n be_v strong_a therefore_o see_v the_o heavenly_a city_n have_v such_o a_o foundation_n no_o marvel_n though_o it_o endure_v for_o ever_o now_o put_v these_o two_o together_o and_o they_o show_v the_o perfect_a excellency_n of_o that_o city_n which_o be_v both_o unchangeable_a and_o eternal_a where_o we_o learn_v the_o great_a difference_n betwixt_o the_o state_n of_o that_o world_n and_o this_o present_a world_n wherein_o we_o live_v in_o the_o body_n for_o what_o be_v there_o in_o this_o world_n so_o excellent_a so_o precious_a so_o costly_a so_o artificial_a but_o be_v subject_a both_o to_o alteration_n and_o in_o the_o end_n to_o dissolution_n the_o long_a day_n have_v his_o night_n and_o the_o long_a life_n end_v in_o death_n after_o many_o misery_n and_o toss_n the_o long_a empire_n and_o mighty_a monarchy_n have_v their_o period_n after_o many_o mutation_n the_o stately_a and_o strong_a city_n end_v in_o ruin_n after_o many_o civil_a broil_n massacre_n and_o other_o misery_n so_o that_o no_o glory_n no_o strength_n no_o happiness_n nothing_o at_o all_o be_v there_o in_o this_o world_n that_o be_v either_o constant_a or_o perpetual_a but_o subject_a to_o utter_v dissolution_n in_o the_o end_n and_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n to_o pitiful_a alteration_n so_o weak_a a_o foundation_n have_v this_o world_n and_o the_o best_a thing_n in_o it_o but_o contrariwise_o the_o glory_n of_o heaven_n have_v such_o a_o foundation_n as_o it_o be_v both_o unchaâ—geable_a and_o eternal_a the_o consideration_n of_o this_o difference_n have_v manifold_a &_o profitable_a use_n first_o we_o may_v see_v how_o reasonable_a the_o counsel_n of_o the_o apostle_n be_v 1._o tim_n 6._o â—7_n charge_v they_o that_o be_v rich_a in_o this_o world_n that_o they_o be_v not_o high_a mind_v and_o put_v not_o their_o trust_n in_o uncertain_a riches_n but_o in_o the_o live_a god_n for_o what_o a_o misery_n and_o vanity_n be_v it_o to_o trust_v in_o that_o that_o be_v uncertain_a and_o therefore_o will_v deceive_v they_o the_o apostle_n tell_v they_o what_o to_o do_v namely_o do_v good_a and_o be_v rich_a in_o good_a work_n and_o be_v ready_a to_o distribute_v lay_v up_o in_o store_n for_o themselves_o a_o good_a foundation_n against_o the_o time_n to_o come_v that_o they_o may_v obtain_v eternal_a life_n that_o be_v that_o they_o so_o spend_v their_o riches_n in_o holiness_n &_o charity_n that_o they_o may_v 〈◊〉_d the_o end_n attain_v heaven_n which_o be_v the_o city_n that_o have_v a_o foundation_n and_o who_o will_v not_o spend_v riches_n which_o be_v so_o uncertain_a for_o heaven_n which_o be_v so_o certain_a a_o glory_n second_o this_o must_v teach_v we_o 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friend_n or_o child_n body_n cast_v into_o the_o earth_n to_o feed_v worm_n burn_v by_o fire_n or_o eat_v by_o fish_n reason_n say_v they_o be_v go_v they_o can_v never_o be_v again_o we_o have_v god_n word_n and_o assure_a promise_n the_o dead_a shall_v rise_v with_o their_o body_n shall_v they_o rise_v isaiah_n we_o must_v therefore_o believe_v it_o if_o we_o will_v be_v of_o the_o faith_n of_o sarah_n god_n say_v to_o she_o age_n and_o barronnesse_n shall_v have_v a_o child_n she_o believe_v it_o he_o say_v to_o we_o dust_n and_o rottenness_n shall_v live_v again_o nay_o he_o have_v often_o say_v it_o and_o shall_v not_o our_o faith_n acknowledge_v the_o voice_n of_o our_o god_n and_o believe_v it_o as_o she_o do_v but_o let_v we_o come_v to_o personal_a promise_n as_o she_o be_v for_o this_o be_v general_a god_n have_v promise_v grace_n and_o pardon_n to_o every_o penitent_a and_o believe_a soul_n yet_o no_o man_n be_v partaker_n of_o the_o sweetness_n hereof_o without_o the_o 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death_n when_o god_n seem_v ready_a to_o kill_v we_o then_o must_v we_o trust_v in_o he_o in_o such_o case_n be_v the_o life_n of_o faith_n to_o be_v show_v when_o reason_n and_o feeling_n say_v god_n be_v a_o terrible_a judge_n faith_n must_v say_v he_o be_v a_o merciful_a father_n in_o our_o health_n and_o welfare_n and_o feel_v of_o god_n favour_n this_o exhortation_n may_v seem_v tedious_a but_o if_o we_o belong_v to_o god_n if_o it_o be_v not_o pass_v already_o the_o time_n be_v sure_a to_o come_v when_o this_o doctrine_n will_v be_v needful_a for_o the_o best_a of_o we_o all_o thus_o we_o see_v the_o excellency_n of_o this_o woman_n faith_n which_o be_v the_o more_o commend_v by_o reason_n of_o these_o two_o so_o great_a hindrance_n now_o follow_v the_o effect_n of_o her_o faith_n which_o be_v diverse_a some_o lay_v down_o in_o this_o verse_n and_o some_o in_o the_o next_o receive_v strength_n to_o conceive_v seed_n and_o be_v deliver_v of_o a_o child_n in_o these_o word_n be_v 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believe_v and_o lo_o she_o conceive_v and_o bring_v forth_o a_o son_n the_o use_n of_o this_o doctrine_n be_v for_o two_o sort_n of_o people_n first_o many_o in_o our_o church_n be_v ignorant_a when_o they_o be_v move_v to_o learn_v religion_n answer_n alas_o they_o be_v simple_a or_o not_o booke-learned_n or_o they_o be_v dull_a and_o heavy_a witted_a or_o they_o be_v old_a and_o weak_a and_o therefore_o they_o can_v learn_v nothing_o or_o if_o they_o do_v they_o can_v remember_v it_o but_o here_o be_v nothing_o but_o vain_a excuse_n for_o they_o want_v not_o wit_n to_o learn_v religion_n if_o they_o have_v wit_n to_o buy_v and_o sell_v to_o know_v a_o fair_a day_n from_o a_o foul_a good_a meat_n from_o ill_a dear_a from_o cheap_a winter_n from_o summer_n if_o they_o have_v wit_n to_o practise_v the_o civil_a action_n of_o the_o world_n they_o have_v wit_n enough_o to_o conceive_v the_o ground_n of_o religion_n and_o to_o get_v so_o much_o knowledge_n as_o may_v suffice_v for_o a_o 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beginning_n this_o their_o faith_n will_v so_o content_a and_o please_v their_o heart_n that_o it_o will_v urge_v they_o forward_o to_o get_v more_o and_o will_v make_v they_o both_o desirous_a &_o capable_a of_o more_o knowledge_n and_o grace_n and_o will_v make_v they_o even_o hunger_n and_o thirst_n after_o knowledge_n and_o grace_n whereas_o he_o that_o know_v no_o promise_n nor_o believe_v it_o content_v himself_o in_o ignorance_n and_o error_n and_o this_o shall_v every_o one_o find_v that_o will_v careful_o use_v the_o mean_n that_o god_n appoint_v and_o will_v begin_v to_o learn_v but_o one_o lesson_n at_o the_o first_o for_o as_o old_a barren_a sarah_n believe_v god_n promise_n conceive_v and_o bring_v forth_o so_o old_a simple_a plain_a dull_a countryman_n believe_v but_o one_o promise_n of_o god_n word_n shall_v conceive_v and_o bring_v forth_o daily_o more_o and_o more_o bless_a fruit_n of_o knowledge_n and_o grace_n second_o other_o who_o have_v make_v better_a proceed_n in_o religion_n do_v see_v their_o sin_n and_o do_v much_o bewail_v they_o but_o they_o can_v overcome_v their_o corruption_n yea_o many_o there_o be_v to_o who_o their_o sin_n and_o inward_a corruption_n be_v more_o grievous_a and_o burdensome_a than_o all_o bodily_a want_n or_o misery_n in_o the_o world_n yet_o see_v they_o not_o how_o to_o conquer_v their_o corruption_n but_o alas_o be_v oftentimes_o foil_v by_o they_o to_o their_o great_a discomfort_n let_v these_o man_n know_v the_o want_n of_o faith_n be_v the_o cause_n hereof_o for_o that_o they_o do_v not_o sufficient_o ruminate_v and_o consider_v the_o promise_n of_o god_n make_v in_o that_o behalf_n nor_o use_v the_o mean_n
god_n have_v appoint_v to_o the_o use_n whereof_o he_o have_v annex_v his_o promise_n of_o help_n against_o sin_n let_v they_o therefore_o lie_v god_n word_n and_o promise_n unto_o their_o conscience_n in_o holy_a and_o frequent_a meditation_n let_v they_o careful_o use_v the_o mean_n god_n have_v appoint_v hear_v and_o read_v his_o word_n receive_v the_o holy_a communion_n earnest_n and_o frequent_a prayer_n crave_v also_o the_o prayer_n of_o other_o and_o let_v they_o sharpen_v these_o holy_a exercise_n by_o fast_v watch_v holy_a conference_n with_o other_o visitation_n of_o other_o afflict_v like_o themselves_o oft_o reveal_v their_o estate_n to_o their_o godly_a pastor_n let_v they_o continue_v thus_o do_v and_o rest_v confident_o on_o the_o word_n and_o promise_n of_o god_n with_o the_o steadfast_a foot_n of_o faith_n and_o they_o shall_v see_v that_o old_a sarah_n shall_v have_v strength_n to_o conceive_v that_o be_v that_o their_o poor_a soul_n shall_v receive_v strength_n to_o tread_v upon_o satan_n to_o conquer_v their_o corruption_n &_o to_o conceive_v &_o bring_v forth_o many_o worthy_a fruit_n of_o holiness_n to_o their_o joy_n and_o comfort_n in_o their_o late_a experience_n as_o isaac_n be_v to_o sarah_n in_o her_o elder_a age_n the_o next_o doctrine_n we_o may_v here_o learn_v be_v that_o whereas_o sarah_n by_o her_o faith_n in_o god_n promise_n conceive_v and_o bring_v forth_o therefore_o child_n be_v the_o immediate_a blessing_n of_o the_o lord_n for_o sarah_n bare_a isaac_n not_o by_o any_o ordinary_a strength_n or_o power_n of_o nature_n but_o through_o faith_n she_o receive_v strength_n to_o conceive_v etc._n etc._n neither_o be_v this_o so_o in_o she_o only_o wherein_o there_o be_v a_o miraculous_a work_n of_o god_n power_n but_o in_o all_o some_o be_v indeed_o barren_a by_o constitution_n and_o these_o can_v conceive_v unless_o by_o god_n power_n as_o sarah_n do_v but_o some_o have_v no_o child_n who_o in_o all_o natural_a reason_n may_v conceive_v for_o as_o god_n give_v the_o law_n and_o thereby_o a_o gift_n and_o power_n to_o increase_v and_o multiply_v genesis_n 1.22_o so_o he_o reserve_v the_o execution_n of_o it_o to_o himself_o and_o power_n to_o alter_v or_o dispense_v to_o add_v or_o diminish_v as_o it_o please_v he_o therefore_o say_v the_o psalmist_n psal._n 127.3_o lo_o child_n be_v the_o inheritance_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o womb_n be_v his_o reward_n and_o speak_v of_o they_o psal._n 128.4_o he_o say_v loe_o thus_o shall_v he_o be_v bless_v that_o fear_v the_o lord_n the_o use_n be_v to_o teach_v parent_n therefore_o to_o bring_v they_o up_o as_o god_n blessing_n and_o not_o only_o to_o give_v they_o corporal_a necessity_n for_o so_o they_o do_v their_o beast_n but_o to_o nurture_n they_o in_o holy_a discipline_n by_o sow_v the_o seed_n of_o religion_n in_o their_o heart_n if_o this_o they_o want_v they_o have_v nothing_o though_o you_o leave_v they_o earldom_n and_o herein_o be_v the_o say_n true_a better_a unborn_a than_o untaught_a the_o law_n and_o power_n to_o increase_v and_o multiply_v be_v give_v to_o beast_n in_o their_o kind_n as_o well_o as_o to_o we_o genesis_n 1._o verse_n 22._o therefore_o unless_o we_o do_v more_o than_o provide_v for_o their_o body_n we_o differ_v little_a from_o they_o but_o make_v they_o know_v god_n and_o so_o we_o make_v they_o fellow_n with_o the_o angel_n if_o parent_n do_v thus_o it_o can_v be_v express_v what_o blessing_n will_v come_v thereby_o to_o church_n and_o commonwealth_n three_o and_o last_o let_v we_o here_o know_v and_o learn_v that_o this_o holy_a matron_n sarah_n figure_v unto_o we_o mystical_o the_o spiritual_a jerusalem_n the_o church_n of_o god._n allegory_n be_v chary_o and_o spare_o to_o be_v teach_v else_o much_o unsounde_a doctrine_n may_v cumber_v man_n conscience_n but_o this_o be_v sound_a and_o sure_a for_o it_o be_v the_o apostle_n galath_n 4.23_o etc._n etc._n by_o agar_n and_o sarah_n other_o thing_n be_v mean_v for_o these_o two_o mother_n be_v two_o testament_n agar_n she_o which_o gender_v unto_o bondage_n sarah_n jerusalem_n which_o be_v free_a and_o from_o above_o and_o be_v the_o mother_n of_o we_o all_o now_o the_o resemblance_n betwixt_o natural_a sarah_n the_o wife_n of_o abraham_n and_o mystical_a sarah_n the_o spouse_n of_o christ_n the_o church_n of_o god_n stand_v in_o this_o that_o as_o she_o not_o by_o power_n in_o herself_o but_o by_o god_n power_n and_o faith_n in_o his_o promise_n bare_a isaac_n so_o the_o church_n our_o mother_n bring_v forth_o child_n to_o god_n only_o by_o the_o power_n of_o god_n word_n and_o spirit_n and_o therefore_o as_o isaac_n be_v call_v the_o child_n of_o promise_n and_o say_v to_o be_v bear_v by_o promise_n galath_n 4.23_o so_o man_n regenerate_v and_o bear_v to_o the_o church_n be_v say_v not_o to_o be_v bear_v of_o blood_n nor_o of_o the_o will_n of_o the_o flesh_n nor_o of_o the_o will_n of_o man_n but_o of_o god_n john_n 1.13_o and_o s._n james_n say_v 1.18_o god_n of_o his_o own_o will_n beget_v we_o with_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n thus_o the_o word_n of_o god_n &_o the_o will_n that_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n these_o two_o together_o beget_v child_n to_o the_o church_n the_o use_n be_v to_o teach_v we_o all_o to_o honour_v the_o church_n as_o our_o mother_n but_o to_o worship_n god_n alone_o who_o be_v the_o father_n of_o our_o soul_n the_o church_n can_v make_v herself_o our_o mother_n noâ—_n we_o her_o child_n when_o she_o will_v but_o it_o be_v god_n that_o must_v speak_v the_o word_n and_o then_o we_o be_v make_v he_o must_v beget_v we_o by_o the_o power_n of_o his_o spirit_n and_o ministry_n of_o his_o word_n and_o further_o let_v we_o learn_v here_o what_o account_n we_o be_v to_o make_v of_o god_n holy_a word_n which_o be_v the_o immortal_a seed_n of_o our_o regeneration_n whereby_o we_o be_v make_v god_n child_n and_o heir_n of_o immortality_n thus_o much_o of_o the_o two_o first_o effect_n of_o her_o faith_n the_o three_o be_v lay_v down_o in_o the_o next_o verse_n which_o because_o it_o be_v much_o stand_v upon_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n we_o will_v put_v it_o off_o till_o then_o be_v therefore_o worthy_a our_o deep_a consideration_n and_o now_o follow_v in_o the_o end_n of_o this_o verse_n the_o five_o and_o last_o point_n which_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o her_o faith_n because_o she_o judge_v he_o faithful_a which_o have_v promise_v the_o foundation_n whereon_o she_o build_v this_o her_o faith_n that_o she_o shall_v have_v a_o son_n be_v barren_a and_o past_a age_n be_v not_o the_o bare_a promise_n of_o god_n so_o much_o as_o the_o conceit_n or_o opinion_n she_o have_v of_o he_o that_o promise_v for_o promise_n be_v not_o of_o value_n so_o much_o by_o the_o thing_n promise_v though_o never_o so_o great_a or_o excellent_a for_o they_o may_v promise_v much_o who_o can_v perform_v nothing_o or_o though_o they_o can_v yet_o will_v recall_v their_o word_n in_o lightness_n and_o inconstancy_n as_o by_o the_o worthiness_n of_o the_o party_n promise_v we_o say_v in_o this_o world_n we_o have_v rather_o have_v some_o man_n word_n than_o other_o man_n bond_n and_o rather_o have_v a_o little_a promise_v of_o some_o then_o much_o of_o other_o now_o such_o be_v the_o judgement_n that_o sarah_n hold_v of_o he_o that_o promisâ—â—_n namely_o god_n she_o judge_v he_o faithful_a which_o have_v promise_v faithful_n that_o be_v she_o judge_v he_o able_a &_o willing_a to_o accomplish_v whatever_o he_o promise_v to_o she_o so_o that_o the_o ground_n of_o our_o faith_n in_o god_n and_o all_o his_o promise_n must_v be_v a_o sure_a apprehension_n and_o knowledge_n of_o these_o two_o thing_n in_o god_n 1._o his_o ability_n to_o make_v good_a whatever_o pass_v he_o in_o word_n 2._o his_o carefulness_n to_o do_v it_o when_o he_o have_v say_v it_o some_o will_v promise_v any_o thing_n though_o their_o ability_n stretch_v not_o to_o perform_v other_o be_v able_a enough_o but_o have_v no_o care_n of_o their_o word_n but_o both_o these_o be_v in_o god_n all-sufficient_a ability_n and_o most_o careful_a willingness_n so_o sarah_n judge_v of_o god_n and_o therefore_o she_o believe_v against_o reason_n and_o so_o must_v we_o do_v if_o we_o will_v believe_v god_n word_n aright_o we_o may_v read_v and_o hear_v and_o know_v god_n word_n and_o have_v the_o point_n therein_o swim_v in_o our_o head_n but_o if_o we_o will_v constant_o believe_v with_o our_o heart_n his_o bless_a promise_n &_o in_o our_o conscience_n fear_v his_o threaten_n we_o must_v be_v full_o persuade_v of_o these_o two_o to_o be_v in_o he_o so_o be_v we_o teach_v by_o christ_n the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n in_o the_o lord_n prayer_n afore_o we_o pray_v for_o
believer_n that_o have_v be_v in_o the_o world_n let_v this_o teach_v we_o when_o we_o see_v our_o own_o sin_n how_o hideous_a &_o monstrous_a they_o be_v yet_o not_o to_o despair_v and_o when_o we_o see_v other_o man_n live_v in_o extreme_a dissolutenes_n yet_o not_o to_o judge_v of_o they_o before_o the_o time_n but_o even_o then_o with_o hope_n and_o comfort_n remember_v that_o god_n who_o quicken_v the_o dead_a and_o call_v thing_n that_o be_v not_o as_o though_o they_o be_v and_o in_o that_o hope_n let_v we_o persuade_v ourselves_o that_o he_o may_v quicken_v our_o dead_a heart_n and_o revive_v we_o by_o his_o grace_n and_o therefore_o in_o that_o hope_n let_v we_o raise_v up_o ourselves_o to_o use_v all_o holy_a mean_n of_o god_n word_n sacrament_n and_o prayer_n which_o if_o we_o careful_o and_o continual_o do_v we_o shall_v see_v wonder_n wrought_v in_o we_o that_o as_o they_o say_v of_o paul_n this_o man_n preach_v the_o faith_n which_o afore_o he_o destroy_v and_o therefore_o glorify_v god_n for_o he_o galath_n 1.22.23_o so_o shall_v man_n say_v of_o we_o this_o man_n hate_v the_o profaneness_n that_o afore_o he_o live_v in_o and_o love_v the_o religion_n that_o afore_o he_o mock_v such_o miracle_n will_v the_o lord_n work_v in_o we_o if_o with_o faith_n and_o diligence_n we_o use_v the_o holy_a mean_n that_o so_o all_o that_o see_v we_o shall_v glorify_v god_n for_o us._n thus_o we_o see_v general_o how_o great_a the_o issue_n and_o posterity_n of_o sarah_n be_v but_o it_o be_v more_o particular_o enlarge_v by_o two_o comparison_n as_o many_o as_o the_o star_n in_o the_o sky_n or_o as_o the_o sand_n by_o the_o sea_n shore_n which_o be_v innumerable_a his_o comparison_n be_v two_o one_o take_v from_o the_o heaven_n as_o many_o as_o the_o star_n in_o the_o sky_n the_o other_o from_o the_o earth_n as_o the_o sand_n in_o the_o sea_n and_o these_o two_o be_v use_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v thing_n of_o incredible_a number_n to_o express_v the_o multitude_n of_o the_o israelite_n that_o come_v all_o from_o sarah_n not_o but_o that_o other_o thing_n also_o be_v of_o as_o great_a number_n as_o the_o drop_n of_o water_n dust_n of_o the_o earth_n &_o hair_n of_o man_n head_n &c_n &c_n but_o these_o two_o be_v most_o common_a and_o proverbial_a phrase_n whereby_o to_o express_v a_o multitude_n and_o again_o the_o star_n of_o the_o sky_n be_v rather_o name_v then_o any_o other_o because_o god_n himself_o in_o the_o beginning_n please_v to_o use_v it_o to_o abraham_n when_o he_o have_v never_o a_o child_n gen._n 15.8_o god_n carry_v abraham_n forth_o in_o the_o night_n and_o bid_v he_o count_v the_o star_n if_o he_o can_v and_o say_v so_o shall_v thy_o seed_n be_v and_o moses_n afterward_o use_v the_o same_o comparison_n deut._n 10.22_o our_o father_n go_v down_o into_o egypt_n 70._o person_n and_o now_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v we_o as_o the_o star_n of_o the_o sky_n in_o multitude_n now_o because_o all_o man_n be_v not_o astronomer_n as_o abraham_n and_o moses_n be_v and_o that_o ignorant_a man_n may_v say_v they_o can_v perceive_v no_o such_o matter_n in_o the_o star_n therefore_o he_o use_v another_o comparison_n which_o every_o countryman_n may_v discern_v how_o innumerable_a they_o be_v namely_o the_o sand_n of_o the_o seashore_n and_o lest_o any_o shall_v say_v i_o dwell_v in_o the_o midland_n country_n and_o never_o see_v the_o sea_n sand_n and_o be_o ignorant_a and_o so_o can_v judge_v of_o the_o star_n therefore_o to_o put_v he_o out_o of_o doubt_n the_o holy_a ghost_n assure_v he_o in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o verse_n that_o they_o be_v both_o innumerable_a that_o be_v not_o in_o themselves_o or_o to_o god_n but_o in_o regard_n of_o man_n and_o man_n skill_n unable_a to_o be_v count_v concern_v these_o two_o comparison_n let_v we_o observe_v the_o manner_n or_o the_o phrase_n of_o speech_n in_o they_o use_v second_o the_o matter_n in_o they_o intend_v for_o the_o first_o we_o be_v to_o know_v that_o the_o speech_n be_v not_o proper_a but_o figurative_a for_o proper_o they_o be_v not_o as_o many_o as_o the_o star_n or_o as_o the_o sand_n neither_o be_v the_o star_n or_o sand_n innumerable_a but_o it_o be_v a_o figure_n call_v by_o the_o rhetorician_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o be_v a_o excess_n of_o fineness_n of_o speech_n or_o a_o excessive_a elegancy_n and_o as_o it_o be_v ordinary_a in_o all_o writer_n and_o even_o in_o common_a speech_n so_o it_o be_v not_o refuse_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n but_o use_v both_o here_o and_o in_o the_o two_o forename_a place_n and_o the_o like_a also_o of_o the_o same_o nature_n but_o in_o other_o phrase_n in_o other_o place_n as_o saint_n john_n 21.25_o i_o suppose_v say_v he_o if_o all_o the_o say_n and_o do_n of_o christ_n be_v write_v the_o world_n can_v not_o contain_v the_o book_n that_o will_v be_v write_v mean_v they_o will_v be_v exceed_v many_o and_o more_o than_o will_v be_v needful_a for_o salvation_n and_o deuteronomie_n 9_o verse_n 1._o moses_n say_v that_o the_o city_n of_o the_o canaanite_n be_v great_a and_o wall_v up_o to_o heaven_n mean_v that_o they_o be_v very_o high_a and_o so_o high_a as_o be_v possible_a for_o city_n wall_n to_o be_v and_o as_o be_v impossible_a to_o have_v be_v scale_v in_o all_o man_n reason_n have_v not_o god_n fight_v for_o they_o these_o and_o such_o like_a be_v common_a in_o the_o scripture_n and_o see_v we_o allow_v that_o liberty_n to_o all_o writer_n and_o to_o ourselves_o in_o common_a speech_n no_o reason_n to_o deny_v it_o to_o the_o scripture_n which_o be_v write_v for_o all_o man_n understanding_n and_o therefore_o in_o such_o phrase_n as_o be_v usual_a and_o ordinary_a with_o all_o man_n and_o the_o like_a liberty_n be_v here_o take_v also_o in_o another_o figure_n as_o many_o as_o the_o sand_n by_o the_o shore_n of_o the_o sea_n the_o word_n proper_o signify_v and_o sound_v the_o lip_n of_o the_o sea_n now_o the_o sea_n have_v no_o lip_n but_o it_o be_v a_o speech_n take_v or_o borrow_v from_o man_n or_o beast_n who_o have_v lip_n and_o the_o sea_n shore_n resemble_v a_o lip_n for_o look_v what_o a_o lip_n be_v to_o they_o the_o shore_n be_v to_o the_o sea_n as_o the_o two_o lip_n do_v enclose_v the_o mouth_n so_o the_o two_o shore_n on_o both_o side_n do_v enclose_v the_o sea_n which_o lie_v as_o in_o a_o mouth_n betwixt_o they_o from_o hence_o we_o may_v learn_v profitable_a instruction_n first_o that_o therefore_o rhetoric_n be_v a_o warrantable_a good_a and_o lawful_a art_n and_o it_o arise_v thus_o that_o which_o the_o holy_a ghost_n practice_v must_v needs_o be_v not_o only_o not_o evil_a but_o good_a and_o warrantable_a but_o the_o holy_a ghost_n use_v and_o practice_v rhetoric_n here_o and_o in_o many_o place_n else_o of_o the_o scripture_n therefore_o it_o be_v a_o good_a and_o lawful_a arte._n the_o proposition_n be_v undoubted_a the_o assumption_n be_v clear_a both_o by_o these_o place_n and_o almost_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o the_o scripture_n many_o of_o saint_n paul_n epistle_n many_o of_o christ_n own_o sermon_n saint_n johns_n gospel_n many_o of_o the_o prophet_n especial_o esayah_n have_v as_o much_o and_o as_o elegant_a rhetoric_n in_o they_o as_o any_o writer_n in_o the_o world_n and_o beside_o all_o other_o virtue_n and_o divine_a power_n in_o they_o do_v even_o for_o figure_n and_o ornament_n of_o art_n match_v any_o orator_n that_o have_v write_v in_o the_o greek_n or_o latin_n nor_o will_v it_o be_v any_o hard_a task_n to_o undertake_v to_o prove_v and_o illustrate_v every_o approve_a rule_n of_o rhetoric_n out_o of_o some_o part_n of_o scripture_n now_o if_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o practise_v the_o rule_n of_o rhetoric_n then_o be_v it_o lawful_a also_o to_o collect_v those_o rule_n together_o to_o pen_v they_o and_o to_o make_v a_o art_n of_o they_o they_o therefore_o that_o hold_v the_o contrary_a do_v say_v or_o teach_v or_o write_v it_o be_v unlawful_a go_v against_o the_o stream_n and_o common_a practice_n of_o the_o scripture_n and_o rule_n of_o common_a reason_n second_o here_o it_o be_v apparent_a that_o in_o preach_v god_n word_n it_o be_v lawful_a and_o warrantable_a for_o a_o minister_n to_o use_v rhetoric_n and_o eloquence_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v good_a for_o that_o which_o the_o holy_a ghost_n use_v in_o pen_v of_o the_o scripture_n the_o same_o may_v god_n minister_n use_v also_o in_o preach_v the_o same_o they_o therefore_o that_o deny_v that_o liberty_n to_o minister_n be_v too_o rough_a and_o rugged_a and_o pull_v out_o of_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o minister_n one_o of_o his_o weapon_n &_o out_o of_o the_o wing_n of_o the_o
the_o fundamental_a point_n of_o religion_n of_o god_n of_o the_o creation_n the_o fall_n the_o immortality_n of_o the_o soul_n the_o two_o covenant_n of_o work_n by_o the_o law_n of_o grace_n by_o the_o mediator_n and_o such_o other_o substantial_a point_n touch_v god_n his_o word_n sacrament_n law_n gospel_n prayer_n good_a work_n etc._n etc._n as_o the_o scripture_n and_o the_o creed_n and_o catechism_n out_o of_o the_o scripture_n do_v yield_v unto_o us._n herein_o the_o case_n of_o the_o common_a people_n of_o all_o nation_n be_v miserable_a in_o popery_n their_o clergy_n be_v so_o fat_a and_o full_a they_o will_v not_o in_o our_o church_n the_o ministry_n a_o great_a part_n of_o it_o so_o poor_a and_o ill_o provide_v for_o they_o can_v teach_v betwixt_o both_o the_o people_n of_o the_o world_n do_v perish_v for_o lack_v of_o knowledge_n for_o how_o can_v they_o but_o perish_v that_o die_v not_o in_o faith_n how_o can_v they_o die_v so_o that_o live_v not_o in_o faith_n and_o how_o can_v they_o ever_o have_v faith_n that_o have_v no_o knowledge_n see_v knowledge_n be_v the_o foundation_n of_o faith_n therefore_o it_o need_v the_o help_n of_o those_o that_o may_v and_o the_o prayer_n of_o all_o that_o our_o church_n may_v have_v teacher_n and_o our_o people_n catechiser_n for_o without_o learn_v the_o catechism_n it_o be_v impossible_a to_o learn_v religion_n second_o when_o we_o have_v get_v knowledge_n and_o so_o lay_v the_o foundation_n then_o must_v we_o learn_v the_o promise_n of_o god_n for_o salvation_n and_o we_o must_v hide_v they_o in_o our_o heart_n as_o the_o jewel_n of_o life_n and_o salvation_n we_o must_v believe_v they_o to_o be_v true_a and_o effectual_a to_o all_o that_o will_v take_v hold_n of_o they_o and_o we_o ourselves_o must_v therefore_o take_v hold_n of_o they_o and_o apply_v they_o to_o our_o soul_n three_o after_o both_o these_o we_o must_v conform_v ourselves_o throughout_o heart_n and_o life_n unto_o the_o holy_a law_n of_o god_n we_o must_v leave_v all_o bad_a way_n and_o ungodly_a course_n though_o they_o be_v never_o so_o dear_a unto_o we_o or_o so_o common_a in_o the_o world_n and_o must_v make_v conscience_n of_o all_o sin_n and_o endeavour_v to_o do_v all_o duty_n to_o god_n and_o man_n the_o first_o of_o these_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o faith_n the_o second_o be_v faith_n itself_o the_o last_o the_o fruit_n and_o effect_n of_o it_o and_o a_o assure_a testimony_n of_o it_o to_o god_n to_o his_o church_n and_o to_o a_o man_n own_o conscience_n and_o to_o do_v these_o three_o thing_n be_v to_o walk_v in_o the_o old_a and_o holy_a way_n consecrate_v by_o christ_n blood_n and_o tread_v in_o by_o all_o the_o holy_a father_n and_o popery_n nor_o any_o other_o religion_n can_v appoint_v so_o â—aâ—e_a so_o sure_a nor_o so_o direct_a a_o way_n thus_o live_v abraham_n sarah_n isaac_n and_o jaacob_n and_o after_o this_o course_n they_o die_v in_o faith_n and_o now_o live_v in_o glory_n and_o so_o shall_v we_o with_o they_o if_o we_o will_v live_v in_o faith_n as_o they_o do_v but_o else_o we_o may_v long_o look_v for_o heaven_n before_o we_o come_v there_o indeed_o god_n can_v make_v a_o man_n that_o live_v not_o in_o faith_n die_v in_o faith_n but_o the_o matter_n be_v not_o what_o he_o can_v do_v but_o what_o be_v his_o ordinary_a course_n &_o that_o be_v this_o they_o that_o live_v in_o faith_n die_v in_o faith_n therefore_o let_v we_o take_v the_o ordinary_a course_n and_o repent_v and_o turn_v betimes_o and_o live_v the_o life_n of_o faith_n and_o leave_v late_a repentance_n to_o they_o that_o think_v it_o but_o a_o sport_n to_o venture_v a_o soul_n that_o course_n may_v speed_v but_o this_o course_n be_v sure_a to_o speed_v he_o that_o live_v in_o sin_n may_v happen_v to_o die_v in_o faith_n but_o he_o that_o live_v in_o faith_n be_v sure_o to_o die_v in_o faith_n and_o to_o live_v in_o glory_n for_o ever_o second_o observe_v how_o it_o be_v say_v all_o these_o die_v in_o faith_n not_o some_o but_o all_o abraham_n the_o father_n and_o the_o root_n and_o with_o he_o the_o wife_n the_o child_n and_o the_o grandchild_n behold_v a_o true_a noble_a blood_n a_o holy_a kindred_n a_o bless_a generation_n worthy_a be_v abraham_n of_o all_o the_o honour_n he_o have_v who_o be_v the_o root_n of_o such_o a_o noble_a and_o bless_a brood_n and_o worthy_a be_v isaac_n and_o jaacob_n of_o so_o good_a a_o father_n who_o stain_v not_o their_o blood_n by_o forsake_v their_o faith_n but_o hold_v it_o as_o they_o receive_v it_o and_o live_v and_o die_v in_o it_o let_v this_o teach_v we_o first_o if_o we_o be_v father_n to_o shine_v before_o our_o child_n in_o a_o holy_a religion_n true_a faith_n and_o good_a life_n and_o it_o be_v great_a hope_n that_o our_o wife_n and_o child_n will_v follow_v we_o in_o the_o same_o second_o if_o we_o be_v son_n to_o look_v which_o of_o our_o forefather_n and_o ancestor_n embrace_v the_o most_o holy_a religion_n and_o to_o choose_v and_o live_v and_o die_v in_o their_o faith_n most_o of_o our_o young_a papist_n can_v say_v no_o more_o for_o their_o religion_n but_o this_o my_o father_n and_o grandfather_n be_v of_o that_o religion_n but_o they_o must_v look_v to_o all_o their_o forefather_n isaac_n and_o jaacob_n will_v not_o be_v of_o their_o great_a grandfather_n nahors_n or_o terahs_n religion_n but_o of_o their_o father_n abraham_n and_o abraham_n himself_o will_v not_o be_v of_o his_o father_n terahs_n or_o his_o grand_a father_n nahors_n religion_n but_o he_o go_v up_o a_o great_a deal_n high_o to_o his_o forefather_n to_o the_o ten_o generation_n noah_n and_o shem_n and_o embrace_v their_o religion_n so_o that_o we_o see_v it_o be_v nothing_o to_o say_v i_o be_o of_o my_o father_n or_o grandfather_n religion_n unless_o first_o i_o prove_v that_o they_o be_v of_o god_n and_o then_o he_o be_v a_o noble_a christian_a man_n which_o know_v that_o will_v not_o forsake_v it_o but_o will_v live_v and_o die_v in_o it_o three_o see_v here_o true_a honour_n and_o gentry_n be_v to_o live_v and_o die_v in_o the_o true_a faith_n and_o holy_a religion_n of_o our_o ancestor_n here_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o honour_n to_o do_v as_o these_o do_v abraham_n perceive_v he_o be_v wrong_a and_o err_v with_o his_o father_n he_o therefore_o leave_v his_o father_n and_o grandfather_n religion_n &_o go_v up_o high_a and_o take_v a_o better_a isaac_n his_o son_n make_v himself_o heir_n not_o of_o his_o land_n alone_o but_o of_o his_o father_n religion_n also_o jaacob_n the_o grandchild_n follow_v both_o and_o die_v in_o faith_n with_o they_o behold_v here_o jaacob_n a_o true_a gentleman_n in_o blood_n his_o holiness_n and_o religion_n be_v in_o the_o three_o descent_n let_v we_o all_o learn_v to_o adorn_v our_o gentility_n and_o nobility_n with_o these_o ensign_n of_o true_a honour_n and_o let_v all_o they_o that_o shame_n to_o stain_v their_o blood_n by_o treason_n or_o misdemeanour_n shame_n also_o to_o let_v their_o forefather_n religion_n holiness_n or_o virtue_n fail_v in_o they_o but_o let_v they_o all_o so_o live_v in_o they_o that_o with_o jaacob_n they_o may_v die_v in_o their_o father_n faith_n last_o observe_v how_o it_o be_v say_v they_o die_v in_o faith_n they_o afore_o live_v in_o it_o but_o now_o their_o principal_a commendation_n be_v they_o die_v in_o it_o let_v we_o learn_v here_o to_o hold_v on_o in_o a_o good_a course_n when_o we_o have_v enter_v into_o it_o for_o constancy_n and_o continuance_n be_v the_o true_a commendation_n he_o that_o die_v in_o faith_n be_v he_o that_o receive_v the_o crown_n to_o this_o end_n let_v we_o stir_v up_o ourselves_o with_o the_o apostle_n exhortation_n galath_n 6.9_o let_v we_o not_o be_v weary_a of_o well_o do_v for_o in_o due_a time_n we_o shall_v reap_v if_o we_o faint_v not_o and_o further_o let_v this_o teach_v we_o all_o to_o choose_v that_o faith_n to_o live_v in_o with_o these_o holy_a patriarch_n that_o we_o may_v bold_o die_v in_o it_o be_v a_o true_a observation_n that_o popery_n be_v a_o good_a religion_n to_o live_v in_o but_o we_o to_o die_v in_o the_o papist_n usurp_v this_o say_n and_o turn_v it_o the_o contrary_a way_n but_o they_o have_v as_o much_o right_n to_o it_o as_o the_o thief_n to_o the_o true_a man_n purse_n the_o liberty_n the_o pardon_n dispensation_n sanctuary_n the_o pomp_n and_o outward_a glory_n of_o their_o church_n and_o their_o fast_n &_o outward_a austerity_n be_v foul_a and_o feign_a hypocrisy_n and_o indeed_o open_a licentiousness_n these_o and_o many_o thing_n more_o may_v allure_v any_o natural_a man_n in_o the_o world_n to_o live_v in_o their_o religion_n but_o when_o they_o come_v to_o die_v than_o
the_o first_o fruit_n of_o their_o faith_n the_o second_o fruit_n of_o their_o faith_n be_v note_v in_o these_o word_n and_o believe_v they_o where_o by_o believe_v we_o must_v understand_v not_o so_o much_o the_o act_n of_o faith_n for_o that_o be_v note_v before_o as_o the_o growth_n and_o increase_n of_o their_o faith_n for_o the_o word_n import_v a_o confirmation_n of_o their_o heart_n and_o a_o resolution_n in_o assurance_n of_o the_o promise_v make_v unto_o they_o which_o be_v not_o unusual_a in_o scripture_n for_o paul_n pray_v for_o the_o church_n who_o have_v true_a knowledge_n faith_n and_o love_n that_o they_o may_v increase_v and_o abound_v therein_o more_o and_o more_o ephesian_n 3.16.17_o philippian_n 1.9.11_o colossian_n 1.9.11_o here_o than_o we_o may_v observe_v in_o the_o example_n of_o these_o patriarch_n that_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n and_o property_n of_o every_o true_a believer_n to_o go_v forward_o and_o increase_v in_o faith_n till_o he_o come_v to_o a_o full_a persuasion_n and_o assurance_n in_o god_n promise_n all_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o faith_n be_v the_o lord_n talent_n and_o every_o true_a believer_n be_v the_o lord_n servant_n call_v to_o occupy_v therewith_o now_o god_n have_v put_v his_o talon_n into_o any_o man_n hand_n do_v require_v the_o increase_n thereof_o as_o the_o parable_n show_v luke_n 19.13_o and_o this_o paul_n teach_v for_o pray_v for_o the_o ephesian_n that_o they_o may_v go_v on_o and_o be_v strengthen_v by_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o inner_a man_n ephesian_n 3.16_o he_o signify_v that_o he_o that_o do_v true_o believe_v in_o christ_n must_v go_v on_o from_o grace_n to_o grace_n till_o he_o be_v a_o tall_a man_n in_o christ_n as_o a_o child_n grow_v from_o year_n to_o year_n till_o he_o come_v to_o be_v a_o strong_a man_n the_o nature_n of_o faith_n be_v like_a unto_o fire_n which_o will_v not_o go_v out_o so_o long_o as_o wood_n or_o other_o fuel_n be_v put_v unto_o it_o but_o will_v take_v hold_v thereof_o and_o grow_v unto_o a_o great_a flame_n and_o so_o will_v faith_n grow_v up_o to_o a_o full_a persuasion_n in_o all_o those_o that_o conscionablie_o apply_v themselves_o to_o the_o worde_n and_o prayer_n but_o go_v the_o case_n thus_o with_o we_o in_o the_o matter_n of_o faith_n nay_o very_o general_o it_o be_v far_o otherwise_o for_o many_o among_o we_o have_v no_o regard_n of_o faith_n at_o all_o but_o think_v they_o may_v live_v as_o they_o lust_n their_o good_a meaning_n will_v serve_v the_o turn_n other_o and_o those_o not_o a_o few_o be_v so_o far_o from_o go_v forward_o in_o faith_n that_o they_o be_v every_o day_n worse_o and_o worse_o and_o still_o go_v backward_o more_o and_o more_o a_o three_o sort_n we_o have_v that_o will_v hear_v the_o word_n and_o receive_v the_o sacrament_n but_o yet_o their_o growth_n in_o grace_n be_v very_o slender_a they_o stand_v at_o a_o stay_n and_o profit_v little_a now_o howsoever_o it_o may_v be_v think_v but_o a_o small_a fault_n not_o to_o profit_v in_o religion_n yet_o undoubted_o it_o be_v a_o fearful_a judgement_n of_o god_n when_o the_o hearer_n of_o the_o word_n in_o any_o congregation_n be_v daily_o teach_v and_o do_v not_o profit_v thereby_o and_o therefore_o the_o holy_a ghost_n note_v those_o woman_n to_o be_v lade_v with_o sin_n which_o be_v ever_o learning_n and_o yet_o never_o be_v able_a to_o come_v to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n 2._o timoth._n 3.7_o if_o a_o child_n late_o bear_v like_v not_o well_o nor_o grow_v when_o it_o have_v good_a keep_n the_o common_a say_n be_v that_o it_o be_v a_o changeling_n so_o if_o a_o man_n hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o do_v not_o increase_v in_o knowledge_n faith_n and_o obedience_n we_o may_v most_o true_o say_v of_o he_o that_o he_o be_v a_o spiritual_a changeling_n and_o therefore_o to_o avoid_v this_o fearful_a judgement_n of_o god_n we_o must_v first_o labour_n for_o faith_n &_o have_v faith_n increase_v therein_o and_o in_o other_o grace_n of_o god_n till_o we_o come_v to_o be_v strong_a man_n in_o christ._n it_o be_v here_o say_v that_o those_o patriarch_n increase_v in_o faith_n but_o it_o may_v be_v demand_v how_o and_o by_o what_o mean_v they_o do_v attain_v hereto_o answer_n in_o the_o book_n of_o genesis_n we_o may_v find_v three_o way_n whereby_o they_o be_v confirm_v in_o the_o faith_n and_o do_v grow_v up_o in_o grace_n the_o first_o mean_n be_v from_o god_n himself_o for_o when_o he_o have_v make_v his_o covenant_n with_o abraham_n merciful_o renew_v the_o same_o during_o his_o life_n as_o occasion_n serve_v sundry_a time_n he_o stay_v not_o there_o suffer_v it_o to_o die_v with_o abraham_n but_o when_o abraham_n be_v dead_a god_n renew_v his_o covenant_n with_o isaac_n and_o rebecka_n and_o with_o jacob_n also_o after_o they_o now_o the_o tongue_n of_o man_n can_v utter_v what_o a_o wonderful_a furtherance_n it_o be_v unto_o their_o faith_n to_o have_v the_o lord_n himself_o to_o renew_v his_o gracious_a promise_n unto_o they_o the_o second_o mean_n of_o increase_a their_o faith_n be_v their_o holy_a converse_v one_o with_o another_o for_o the_o manner_n of_o the_o patriarch_n be_v to_o teach_v and_o instruct_v their_o child_n and_o to_o nurture_n they_o up_o in_o the_o true_a worship_n and_o fear_n of_o god_n by_o which_o mean_n they_o do_v not_o only_o implant_v god_n promise_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o their_o child_n but_o be_v themselves_o confirm_v in_o the_o same_o for_o he_o that_o teach_v another_o from_o a_o feel_a heart_n great_o strengthen_v his_o own_o soul_n now_o god_n himself_o do_v testify_v this_o thing_n of_o abraham_n 18.19_o say_v i_o know_v he_o that_o he_o will_v command_v his_o son_n and_o his_o household_n after_o he_o that_o they_o keep_v the_o way_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o do_v righteousness_n and_o judgement_n now_o look_v what_o abraham_n herein_o do_v to_o isaac_n that_o no_o doubt_n do_v isaac_n unto_o jacob_n the_o three_o mean_n to_o increase_v their_o faith_n be_v from_o each_o one_o to_o himself_o for_o they_o give_v themselves_o often_o time_n in_o their_o own_o person_n to_o muse_n &_o meditate_v upon_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n 24.63_o so_o it_o be_v say_v of_o isaac_n that_o he_o go_v out_o to_o pray_v or_o to_o meditate_v in_o the_o field_n towards_o evening_n and_o we_o may_v persuade_v ourselves_o it_o be_v concern_v this_o and_o other_o promise_n of_o god_n and_o the_o accomplishment_n thereof_o and_o we_o need_v not_o to_o doubt_v but_o that_o abraham_n and_o jaacob_n do_v the_o like_a these_o be_v the_o mean_n by_o which_o these_o godly_a patriarch_n be_v strengthen_v in_o their_o faith_n all_o which_o must_v be_v mark_v of_o we_o diligent_o and_o put_v in_o practice_n for_o the_o cause_n why_o we_o hear_v the_o word_n often_o and_o yet_o profit_v little_a by_o it_o be_v chief_o this_o because_o the_o mean_n by_o which_o man_n shall_v grow_v up_o in_o faith_n be_v so_o slender_o use_v among_o us._n for_o the_o first_o mean_n which_o be_v on_o god_n behalf_n to_o man_n be_v through_o his_o great_a and_o unspeakable_a mercy_n plentiful_o afford_v in_o many_o part_n of_o the_o land_n in_o the_o holy_a ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n wherein_o god_n gracious_a promise_n of_o mercy_n be_v open_v and_o apply_v to_o man_n heart_n and_o his_o judgement_n against_o sin_n be_v sharp_o denounce_v to_o drive_v man_n to_o lay_v hold_n on_o god_n mercy_n in_o christ._n but_o if_o we_o regard_v the_o second_o mean_n which_o be_v mutual_a instruction_n of_o father_n to_o child_n of_o master_n to_o servant_n and_o of_o one_o neighbour_n to_o another_o together_o with_o mutual_a conference_n about_o that_o we_o be_v teach_v or_o else_o if_o we_o regard_v the_o three_o mean_n which_o be_v private_a meditation_n upon_o god_n word_n and_o promise_n teach_v unto_o we_o which_o meditation_n be_v to_o a_o christian_a soul_n like_o the_o chew_v of_o the_o cud_n unto_o a_o beast_n for_o as_o chew_v the_o cud_n turn_v that_o which_o be_v eat_v into_o true_a feed_n so_o do_v holy_a meditation_n make_v god_n word_n and_o promise_n spiritual_a refresh_n by_o digest_v they_o in_o the_o heart_n if_o i_o say_v we_o take_v a_o view_n of_o these_o two_o latter_a we_o shall_v find_v they_o seldom_o use_v of_o very_a many_o or_o not_o at_o all_o bless_a be_v god_n we_o need_v not_o to_o doubt_v but_o there_o be_v some_o who_o use_v these_o mean_n with_o care_n and_o reverence_n but_o alas_o these_o some_o be_v very_o few_o and_o because_o this_o duty_n be_v so_o slack_o perform_v hence_o it_o be_v that_o though_o the_o covenant_n of_o mercy_n in_o christ_n be_v oft_o repeat_v yet_o man_n reap_v little_a profit_n by_o it_o so_o that_o we_o
must_v learn_v to_o follow_v this_o notable_a practice_n of_o these_o godly_a patriarch_n and_o look_v what_o mean_v they_o use_v for_o the_o increase_n of_o their_o faith_n the_o same_o also_o must_v we_o use_v and_o that_o diligent_o so_o shall_v we_o grow_v and_o increase_v and_o wax_v strong_a in_o faith_n as_o they_o do_v the_o three_o fruit_n of_o their_o faith_n be_v this_o and_o receive_v they_o thankful_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d the_o word_n in_o the_o original_n signify_v to_o salute_v and_o that_o not_o only_o by_o speech_n but_o any_o way_n else_o as_o by_o embrace_v etc._n etc._n and_o therefore_o in_o this_o place_n be_v not_o unfit_o translate_v and_o receive_v they_o thankful_o that_o be_v they_o take_v they_o kind_o at_o god_n hand_n this_o be_v a_o notable_a fruit_n of_o faith_n whereby_o they_o be_v commend_v that_o see_v the_o promise_n of_o god_n afar_o off_o do_v yet_o take_v they_o most_o kind_o at_o god_n hand_n but_o here_o we_o must_v consider_v how_o they_o take_v they_o kind_o namely_o by_o do_v 2._o thing_n 1._o by_o a_o action_n of_o their_o heart_n 2._o by_o a_o action_n of_o their_o life_n the_o action_n of_o their_o heart_n be_v this_o that_o howsoever_o the_o promise_n be_v not_o accomplish_v in_o their_o day_n yet_o they_o be_v wonderful_o glad_a thereof_o for_o our_o saviour_n christ_n say_v to_o the_o jew_n your_o father_n abraham_n rejoice_v to_o see_v my_o day_n &_o he_o see_v it_o &_o be_v glad_a 8.56_o it_o do_v abraham_n heart_n good_a to_o see_v christ_n afar_o off_o and_o so_o we_o may_v safe_o think_v of_o sarah_n isaac_n and_o jaacob_n that_o their_o heart_n be_v also_o ravish_v with_o joy_n to_o hear_v the_o wonderful_a promise_n of_o god_n concern_v the_o messiah_n and_o to_o think_v of_o the_o most_o joyful_a performance_n which_o they_o know_v shall_v follow_v in_o due_a time_n second_o they_o take_v this_o promise_n kind_o by_o the_o practice_n of_o their_o life_n for_o when_o they_o come_v to_o any_o strange_a place_n as_o we_o may_v often_o read_v in_o the_o story_n there_o they_o build_v up_o altar_n 33.10_o &_o offer_a sacrifice_n unto_o god_n and_o call_v on_o his_o name_n all_o which_o they_o do_v to_o testify_v their_o inward_a joy_n &_o thankful_a acceptance_n of_o god_n promise_n in_o christ_n and_o of_o the_o promise_a land_n though_o neither_o be_v accomplish_v in_o their_o day_n now_o as_o touch_v ourselves_o the_o same_o main_a promise_n of_o god_n that_o be_v make_v to_o abraham_n isaac_n and_o jaacob_n have_v the_o lord_n make_v and_o continue_v unto_o we_o nay_o we_o have_v the_o same_o already_o accomplish_v &_o we_o see_v the_o same_o verify_v more_o evident_o and_o plain_o than_o any_o of_o the_o patriarch_n do_v which_o be_v true_a our_o duty_n be_v to_o take_v the_o same_o much_o more_o thankful_o and_o kind_o at_o god_n hand_n than_o they_o do_v or_o can_v do_v because_o we_o have_v more_o light_n and_o knowledge_n in_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n than_o ever_o the_o patriarch_n have_v but_o we_o have_v just_a cause_n to_o bewail_v the_o day_n and_o time_n wherein_o we_o live_v for_o whereas_o we_o shall_v take_v the_o promise_n of_o god_n most_o joyful_o and_o kind_o the_o case_n be_v far_o otherwise_o for_o general_o it_o may_v be_v say_v of_o our_o nation_n and_o people_n that_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o mercy_n and_o promise_n of_o god_n we_o be_v a_o unkind_a people_n and_o that_o this_o be_v true_a for_o the_o most_o part_n in_o all_o of_o we_o if_o weâ—_n will_v but_o a_o little_a examine_v the_o matter_n we_o shall_v find_v too_o apparent_a by_o many_o evidence_n for_o first_o let_v any_o of_o we_o be_v bring_v to_o a_o place_n where_o we_o may_v behold_v some_o vain_a interlude_n or_o show_v a_o man_n will_v not_o think_v how_o wonderful_o we_o be_v ravish_v therewithal_o so_o as_o we_o can_v find_v in_o our_o heart_n to_o spend_v whole_a day_n in_o behold_v they_o but_o let_v we_o be_v bring_v to_o hear_v the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n his_o holy_a word_n preach_v and_o teach_v as_o it_o be_v unto_o abraham_n isaac_n &_o jaacob_n wherein_o they_o much_o rejoice_v and_o there_o we_o sit_v heavy_a and_o drowsy_a so_o as_o the_o word_n seem_v loathsome_a unto_o we_o &_o one_o hour_n be_v so_o tedious_a as_o we_o hardly_o hold_v it_o out_o without_o sleep_v and_o if_o it_o pass_v the_o hour_n a_o little_a o_o how_o impatient_o our_o nature_n take_v it_o all_o which_o show_v plain_o that_o we_o have_v no_o such_o joy_n to_o hear_v of_o christ_n and_o his_o merciful_a promise_n as_o these_o godly_a patriarch_n have_v so_o that_o we_o be_v both_o hard_a heart_a &_o unkind_a &_o altogether_o insensible_a of_o so_o great_a favour_n of_o our_o god_n towards_o us._n second_o consider_v man_n behaviour_n in_o god_n worship_n it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o great_a part_n of_o people_n worship_n god_n but_o in_o formal_a show_n for_o fashion_n sake_n these_o godly_a patriarch_n abraham_n etc._n etc._n build_v altar_n in_o every_o place_n where_o they_o come_v and_o offer_a sacrifice_n unto_o god_n to_o signify_v their_o kindness_n &_o willing_a heart_n towards_o god_n for_o his_o promise_n but_o now_o man_n worship_n god_n formal_o not_o in_o way_n of_o thankfulness_n but_o either_o because_o the_o law_n compel_v they_o to_o it_o or_o else_o because_o it_o be_v a_o custom_n and_o order_n which_o must_v be_v keep_v for_o proof_n thereof_o take_v some_o one_o of_o the_o common_a sort_n &_o ask_v he_o why_o he_o come_v into_o the_o congregation_n he_o will_v say_v he_o come_v to_o do_v as_o other_o man_n do_v but_o what_o they_o do_v he_o know_v not_o or_o what_o he_o himself_o ought_v to_o do_v he_o can_v tell_v nor_o care_v much_o to_o know_v other_o also_o come_v to_o worship_n god_n but_o ask_v they_o how_o they_o do_v it_o they_o will_v say_v by_o say_v over_o the_o ten_o commandment_n the_o lord_n prayer_n and_o the_o belief_n but_o if_o the_o word_n be_v either_o preach_v or_o read_v they_o regard_v it_o not_o think_v that_o all_o god_n worship_n stand_v in_o the_o repeat_n of_o those_o three_o thing_n which_o show_v that_o they_o worship_n god_n but_o for_o fashion_n sake_n and_o with_o little_a more_o than_o a_o plain_a lip-labour_n another_o sort_n there_o be_v which_o come_v near_o to_o god_n with_o their_o lip_n but_o their_o heart_n be_v far_o from_o he_o for_o though_o their_o body_n be_v present_a in_o the_o congregation_n yet_o their_o heart_n be_v wander_v about_o their_o worldly_a business_n or_o the_o work_n of_o sin_n so_o that_o we_o may_v true_o say_v god_n be_v not_o worship_v with_o faith_n in_o the_o heart_n and_o therefore_o we_o be_v a_o unkind_a people_n and_o quite_o degenerate_a from_o the_o faith_n of_o our_o forefather_n these_o holy_a patriarch_n who_o receive_v god_n promise_n so_o kind_o and_o thankful_o three_o we_o have_v the_o word_n of_o god_n daily_o preach_v and_o teach_v unto_o we_o but_o how_o many_o be_v there_o that_o make_v conscience_n of_o obey_v the_o same_o in_o their_o life_n and_o calling_n man_n do_v come_v and_o hear_v and_o shall_v learn_v but_o when_o they_o come_v home_o they_o do_v sâ—at_o contrary_a to_o that_o which_o be_v teach_v now_o there_o can_v be_v no_o great_a unthankfulness_n nor_o unkindness_n towards_o god_n than_o this_o that_o man_n shall_v hear_v and_o not_o obey_v 66.3_o for_o disobedience_n be_v as_o the_o sin_n of_o witchcraft_n nay_o the_o lord_n himself_o say_v that_o he_o that_o make_v no_o conscience_n of_o obedience_n in_o his_o life_n be_v in_o his_o action_n of_o god_n worship_n no_o more_o acceptable_a unto_o god_n than_o a_o murderer_n be_v when_o he_o kill_v a_o man_n wherefore_o see_v obedience_n be_v so_o rare_a to_o be_v find_v among_o we_o and_o disobedience_n abound_v every_o where_o it_o be_v a_o plain_a argument_n that_o we_o take_v not_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n kind_o nor_o thankful_o at_o his_o hand_n for_o if_o we_o do_v we_o will_v at_o least_o endeavour_v ourselves_o to_o do_v what_o god_n command_v in_o his_o law_n and_o desire_v in_o his_o gospel_n and_o so_o be_v thankful_a unto_o god_n for_o his_o mercy_n show_v forth_o our_o thankfulness_n by_o our_o obedience_n so_o that_o it_o stand_v we_o in_o hand_n every_o man_n to_o look_v unto_o himself_o for_o his_o own_o part_n see_v god_n have_v give_v we_o his_o gospel_n the_o mean_n of_o our_o salvation_n that_o therefore_o we_o receive_v and_o embrace_v the_o same_o lest_o god_n do_v either_o take_v the_o same_o from_o we_o or_o we_o from_o it_o for_o we_o may_v be_v sure_a that_o the_o one_o of_o these_o two_o will_v follow_v if_o we_o do_v daily_o hear_v and_o make_v no_o conscience_n to_o
public_o expound_v whereas_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n the_o bible_n lie_v neglect_v or_o little_o regard_v wherein_o we_o may_v see_v the_o notable_a work_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o his_o malice_n towards_o the_o church_n of_o god_n for_o the_o school_n of_o the_o prophet_n be_v the_o fountain_n of_o learning_n now_o when_o as_o satan_n by_o this_o mean_n do_v steal_v away_o from_o they_o the_o study_n of_o the_o bible_n and_o in_o stead_n thereof_o foi_v in_o corrupt_a humane_a write_n hereby_o he_o poison_v the_o fountain_n to_o the_o danger_n of_o infect_v the_o whole_a church_n and_o as_o this_o be_v common_a in_o the_o place_n of_o popery_n so_o likewise_o some_o fault_n be_v this_o way_n commit_v among_o we_o that_o be_v protestant_n for_o many_o in_o their_o private_a study_n take_v little_a pain_n in_o the_o book_n of_o god_n but_o apply_v themselves_o whole_o to_o the_o write_n of_o man_n as_o counsel_n father_n schoolman_n and_o other_o expositor_n and_o in_o the_o handle_n of_o the_o scripture_n they_o glory_v more_o to_o prove_v a_o point_n of_o doctrine_n by_o multiplicity_n of_o humane_a testimony_n then_o by_o the_o write_a word_n but_o the_o truth_n be_v thus_o to_o do_v be_v to_o prefer_v the_o handmaid_n before_o the_o mistress_n and_o as_o for_o the_o open_n &_o expound_v of_o scripture_n by_o other_o writer_n it_o be_v no_o such_o point_n of_o deep_a learning_n a_o man_n of_o ordinary_a capacity_n and_o diligence_n may_v easy_o deliver_v what_o other_o have_v do_v before_o he_o but_o to_o open_v the_o scripture_n sound_o and_o pure_o as_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v be_v of_o another_o nature_n than_o these_o man_n take_v it_o and_o hereto_o the_o sound_a study_n of_o the_o text_n itself_o will_v prove_v the_o best_a help_n as_o they_o will_v confess_v who_o have_v try_v most_o of_o all_o and_o though_o the_o best_a man_n work_n be_v but_o base_a stuff_n to_o the_o pure_a word_n of_o god_n yet_o the_o write_n of_o holy_a man_n must_v not_o be_v contemn_v but_o must_v be_v read_v and_o regard_v in_o their_o place_n for_o our_o furnish_n and_o enable_v to_o the_o study_n of_o the_o scripture_n and_o for_o the_o help_a of_o our_o knowledge_n and_o judgement_n in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n they_o that_o hold_v or_o practise_v the_o contrary_a know_v not_o what_o help_v they_o be_v and_o what_o light_n they_o yield_v to_o many_o dark_a place_n of_o scripture_n but_o still_o above_o and_o beyond_o before_o and_o after_o all_o the_o word_n of_o god_n must_v be_v eat_v up_o of_o we_o and_o study_v with_o all_o diligence_n second_o in_o that_o the_o author_n of_o this_o epistle_n note_v their_o particular_a sentence_n and_o by_o consequence_n gather_v this_o meditation_n out_o of_o it_o that_o they_o seek_v a_o country_n hereby_o all_o man_n be_v teach_v to_o exercise_v themselves_o in_o hear_v and_o read_v all_o the_o place_n of_o the_o bible_n even_o the_o history_n of_o man_n therein_o and_o out_o of_o the_o word_n to_o gather_v godly_a meditation_n so_o paul_n say_v to_o the_o colossian_n 1.2_o let_v the_o word_n of_o god_n dwell_v plenteous_o in_o you_o coloss._n 3.16_o the_o prophet_n david_n also_o note_v it_o for_o the_o property_n of_o a_o good_a man_n to_o meditate_v in_o the_o law_n of_o god_n day_n and_o night_n and_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o bless_a virgin_n mary_n be_v register_v as_o a_o example_n for_o we_o to_o follow_v that_o she_o keep_v all_o the_o say_n of_o christ_n in_o her_o heart_n but_o pity_v it_o be_v to_o see_v how_o read_v in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v lay_v aside_o 2.51_o for_o it_o be_v so_o little_o practise_v that_o man_n nowadays_a will_v not_o be_v at_o charge_n to_o buy_v a_o bible_n for_o book_n of_o statute_n man_n will_v not_o only_o have_v they_o in_o their_o house_n but_o at_o their_o finger_n end_n but_o bible_n they_o have_v none_o and_o if_o they_o have_v it_o lie_v on_o the_o desk_n or_o table_n and_o they_o read_v it_o not_o and_o if_o sometime_o they_o read_v yet_o they_o never_o meditate_v thereon_o as_o we_o be_v teach_v in_o this_o place_n further_o whereas_o the_o holy_a ghost_n reason_v thus_o upon_o these_o example_n abraham_n isaac_n and_o jacob_n be_v stranger_n and_o pilgrim_n therefore_o they_o seek_v a_o country_n herein_o he_o teach_v we_o this_o special_a point_n to_o wit_n that_o a_o doctrine_n though_o it_o be_v not_o express_v in_o plain_a word_n in_o the_o bible_n yet_o be_v gather_v thence_o by_o right_a and_o just_a consequence_n be_v no_o less_o to_o be_v believe_v and_o receive_v then_o that_o which_o be_v plain_o express_v and_o therefore_o they_o be_v far_o to_o blame_v which_o mislike_v these_o term_n in_o divinity_n person_n nature_n sacrament_n consubstantial_a trinity_n etc._n etc._n because_o they_o be_v not_o express_v in_o the_o word_n but_o they_o may_v with_o good_a conscience_n and_o much_o profit_n be_v retain_v because_o though_o not_o literal_o yet_o in_o sense_n and_o meaning_n they_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o scripture_n and_o may_v by_o just_a consequence_n be_v gather_v thence_o and_o we_o deny_v not_o transubstantion_n because_o the_o word_n be_v not_o in_o the_o scripture_n but_o because_o the_o matter_n be_v not_o there_o nor_o can_v by_o necessary_a consequence_n be_v derive_v from_o it_o but_o rather_o the_o contrary_n again_o many_o refuse_v these_o doctrine_n the_o proceed_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n from_o the_o son_n and_o the_o baptise_v of_o child_n because_o they_o be_v not_o express_v in_o the_o scripture_n but_o hence_o we_o answer_v that_o though_o they_o be_v not_o express_o set_v down_o in_o so_o many_o word_n yet_o by_o just_a consequence_n they_o may_v be_v sound_o gather_v out_o of_o scripture_n and_o therefore_o be_v true_a doctrine_n no_o less_o to_o be_v believe_v then_o that_o which_o be_v plain_o express_v and_o thus_o much_o of_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o reason_n and_o if_o they_o have_v be_v mindful_a of_o that_o country_n whence_o they_o come_v they_o have_v leisure_n to_o have_v return_v but_o now_o they_o desire_v a_o better_a that_o be_v a_o heavenly_a wherefore_o god_n be_v not_o ashamed_a of_o they_o to_o be_v call_v their_o god_n for_o he_o have_v prepare_v for_o they_o a_o city_n here_o the_o holy_a ghost_n prove_v the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o former_a argument_n by_o 2._o reason_n the_o first_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o 15._o verse_n and_o the_o beginning_n of_o the_o 16._o it_o be_v take_v from_o the_o distinction_n of_o country_n and_o may_v be_v frame_v thus_o they_o either_o seek_v a_o earthly_a country_n or_o a_o heavenly_a country_n but_o not_o a_o earthly_a therefore_o they_o seek_v a_o heavenly_a country_n the_o first_o part_n of_o this_o reason_n be_v clear_a of_o itself_o the_o second_o part_n be_v in_o the_o 15._o verse_n from_o whence_o follow_v the_o conclusion_n in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o 16._o verse_n to_o come_v to_o the_o first_o part_n in_o these_o word_n and_o if_o they_o have_v be_v mindful_a of_o the_o country_n etc._n etc._n that_o be_v if_o they_o have_v regard_v or_o think_v upon_o mesopotamia_n or_o caldea_n from_o whence_o they_o come_v and_o where_o they_o be_v bear_v with_o any_o desire_n to_o have_v enjoy_v the_o profit_n or_o pleasure_n thereof_o they_o have_v leisure_n enough_o to_o have_v return_v back_o thither_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o length_n of_o their_o day_n which_o they_o live_v in_o the_o land_n whither_o god_n call_v they_o here_o observe_v two_o point_n first_o that_o they_o be_v not_o mindful_a of_o or_o as_o the_o word_n import_v they_o remember_v not_o the_o country_n from_o whence_o they_o come_v but_o when_o god_n give_v they_o commandment_n to_o depart_v thence_o and_o not_o to_o return_v to_o mesopotamia_n again_o after_o this_o commandment_n give_v they_o come_v forth_o and_o do_v forget_v their_o own_o country_n whence_o we_o learn_v that_o howsoever_o usual_o forgetfulness_n be_v a_o vice_n yet_o some_o kind_n of_o forgetfulness_n be_v a_o notable_a virtue_n namely_o to_o forget_v the_o thing_n that_o displease_v god_n and_o which_o he_o will_v not_o have_v we_o to_o think_v upon_o psal._n 45.9_o the_o church_n be_v command_v to_o forget_v she_o own_o people_n and_o her_o father_n house_n that_o be_v her_o own_o will_n and_o desire_n she_o must_v never_o think_v thereof_o nor_o of_o any_o other_o thing_n whereby_o god_n be_v displease_v unless_o it_o be_v with_o dislike_n this_o condemn_v the_o practice_n of_o many_o age_a person_n in_o these_o day_n who_o delight_n themselves_o among_o the_o young_a sort_n to_o tell_v of_o the_o bad_a practice_n of_o their_o youth_n in_o wantonness_n contention_n and_o break_v god_n commandment_n but_o in_o so_o do_v they_o sin_v grievous_o for_o a_o man_n must_v not_o
remember_v his_o sin_n but_o with_o dislike_n and_o detestation_n be_v grieve_v with_o they_o and_o angry_a with_o himself_o for_o they_o or_o else_o to_o teach_v other_o how_o to_o avoid_v they_o and_o as_o this_o kind_n of_o forgetfulness_n be_v a_o good_a virtue_n so_o there_o be_v also_o a_o virtuous_a and_o good_a remembrance_n namely_o to_o be_v mindful_a of_o that_o which_o may_v please_v god_n as_o of_o god_n judgement_n to_o be_v humble_v thereby_o and_o of_o his_o mercy_n to_o be_v thankful_a unto_o almighty_a god_n for_o they_o and_o of_o his_o commandment_n to_o become_v obedient_a to_o his_o will_n these_o thing_n therefore_o we_o ought_v to_o imprint_v by_o diligence_n in_o our_o memory_n second_o here_o observe_v god_n call_v they_o out_o of_o their_o own_o country_n and_o bid_v they_o live_v in_o the_o land_n of_o canaan_n as_o stranger_n and_o pilgrim_n and_o so_o they_o do_v abide_v there_o without_o any_o purpose_n to_o return_v nay_o they_o be_v not_o mindful_a of_o their_o former_a home_n hence_o we_o be_v teach_v to_o be_v constant_a in_o that_o call_n whereunto_o god_n have_v call_v us._n it_o be_v a_o fearful_a sin_n for_o a_o man_n to_o go_v back_o from_o that_o call_n in_o which_o god_n have_v place_v he_o when_o the_o israelite_n abide_v not_o patient_o and_o constant_o with_o god_n in_o the_o wilderness_n but_o desire_v to_o shake_v off_o the_o call_n of_o god_n &_o to_o return_v to_o egypt_n there_o to_o sit_v by_o the_o fleshpot_n again_o they_o have_v god_n hand_n upon_o they_o grievous_o as_o we_o may_v read_v at_o large_a psalm_n 78._o lot_n wife_n for_o look_v back_o when_o she_o be_v command_v to_o the_o contrary_a be_v fearful_o and_o strange_o punish_v be_v turn_v into_o a_o pillar_n of_o salt_n gen._n 19.26_o and_o our_o saviour_n christ_n say_v luk._n 9.62_o no_o man_n that_o put_v his_o hand_n to_o the_o lord_n plough_v and_o look_v back_o again_o be_v apt_a to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n as_o though_o he_o have_v say_v he_o that_o start_v from_o the_o plough_n be_v not_o fit_a for_o the_o field_n no_o more_o be_v he_o that_o shift_v from_o his_o call_n fit_a for_o god_n service_n to_o apply_v this_o to_o ourselves_o god_n have_v call_v we_o to_o profess_v christian_a religion_n whence_o we_o be_v call_v protestant_n we_o therefore_o must_v profess_v the_o same_o constant_o and_o hold_v it_o fast_o without_o waver_v or_o doubt_v even_o without_o be_v mindful_a of_o that_o spiritual_a egypt_n of_o darkness_n and_o superstition_n whence_o we_o be_v deliver_v much_o more_o without_o turn_v to_o any_o other_o this_o be_v the_o true_a religion_n which_o be_v ground_v on_o god_n word_n again_o in_o this_o our_o call_n of_o christianity_n we_o have_v vow_v unto_o god_n for_o ourselves_o to_o renounce_v the_o flesh_n the_o world_n and_o the_o devil_n now_o this_o be_v our_o call_n as_o we_o have_v promise_v and_o undertake_v it_o so_o we_o must_v obey_v it_o in_o our_o life_n fight_v manful_o every_o day_n against_o the_o world_n the_o flesh_n and_o the_o devil_n for_o if_o we_o profess_v religion_n in_o word_n and_o do_v not_o obey_v it_o in_o deed_n we_o make_v ourselves_o unfit_a for_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n but_o alas_o man_n be_v like_a to_o the_o swine_n that_o return_v to_o the_o puddle_n though_o he_o be_v wash_v never_o so_o clean_o and_o to_o the_o dog_n that_o return_v to_o his_o vomit_n for_o most_o man_n do_v but_o serve_v the_o flesh_n &_o the_o world_n and_o the_o lust_n thereof_o therein_o be_v their_o joy_n and_o their_o heart_n ease_v take_v away_o these_o thing_n from_o they_o and_o take_v away_o their_o life_n so_o far_o be_v they_o from_o seek_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n as_o these_o patriarch_n do_v thus_o much_o for_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o reason_n now_o follow_v the_o second_o part_n which_o be_v this_o but_o they_o seek_v not_o a_o place_n in_o earth_n and_o therefore_o the_o conclusion_n follow_v that_o they_o desire_v a_o country_n which_o be_v heaven_n in_o these_o word_n but_o now_o they_o desire_v a_o better_a but_o some_o will_v say_v the_o patriarch_n be_v dead_a many_o hundred_o year_n before_o this_o be_v write_v how_o then_o can_v they_o be_v now_o say_v to_o desire_v a_o country_n answ._n the_o author_n of_o this_o epistle_n here_o observe_v and_o follow_v the_o manner_n of_o they_o that_o write_v history_n who_o speak_v of_o thing_n past_o long_a ago_o as_o though_o they_o be_v now_o present_a now_o it_o be_v say_v they_o desire_v a_o better_a country_n these_o patriarch_n have_v lay_v before_o they_o two_o country_n the_o land_n of_o canaan_n and_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n and_o of_o these_o two_o they_o may_v choose_v whether_o they_o will_v to_o be_v their_o portion_n and_o inheritance_n upon_o which_o they_o will_v bestow_v their_o heart_n now_o they_o esteem_v heaven_n though_o it_o be_v to_o come_v better_o than_o canaan_n though_o present_a and_o therefore_o make_v choice_n of_o heaven_n and_o long_v for_o it_o where_o we_o learn_v that_o as_o we_o must_v be_v thankful_a to_o god_n for_o all_o his_o blessing_n so_o among_o they_o all_o we_o shall_v choose_v the_o best_a this_o david_n do_v for_o be_v put_v to_o choose_v whether_o he_o have_v rather_o live_v in_o safeguard_n and_o in_o solace_n with_o the_o wicked_a and_o ungodly_a than_o in_o base_a estate_n and_o in_o great_a danger_n near_o to_o god_n sanctuary_n he_o say_v psal._n 84.10_o he_o have_v rather_o be_v a_o doorkeeper_n in_o the_o house_n of_o his_o god_n than_o to_o dwell_v in_o the_o tabernacle_n of_o wickedness_n and_o solomon_n be_v high_o commend_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n 1._o king_n 3.10.11_o for_o choose_v a_o wise_a and_o understand_a heart_n before_o riches_n and_o honour_n moses_n also_o as_o we_o shall_v see_v afterward_o have_v his_o choice_n whether_o he_o will_v live_v glorious_o &_o at_o ease_n in_o pharoh_n court_n or_o with_o the_o church_n of_o god_n in_o adversity_n now_o moses_n have_v the_o gift_n of_o discern_v refuse_v to_o be_v call_v the_o son_n of_o pharaoh_n daughter_n and_o choose_v rather_o to_o suffer_v adversity_n with_o the_o people_n of_o god_n than_o to_o enjoy_v the_o pleasure_n of_o sin_n for_o a_o season_n which_o holy_a example_n do_v all_o teach_v we_o that_o when_o god_n set_v before_o we_o diverse_a sort_n of_o his_o blessing_n we_o in_o spiritual_a wisdom_n must_v make_v choice_n of_o the_o best_a on_o the_o contrary_a esau_n have_v this_o choice_n set_v before_o he_o his_o brother_n red_a broth_n and_o his_o birthright_n but_o he_o choose_v the_o worse_o &_o therefore_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n the_o holy_a ghost_n note_v he_o with_o this_o mark_n to_o be_v profane_a esau_n for_o his_o labour_n and_o the_o gaderens_n also_o be_v brand_v with_o a_o note_n of_o infamy_n to_o all_o age_n for_o choose_v their_o hog_n before_o christ_n and_o his_o salvation_n and_o the_o like_a choice_n be_v set_v before_o we_o every_o day_n for_o god_n of_o his_o mercy_n in_o the_o preach_v of_o the_o word_n for_o his_o part_n do_v set_v forth_o unto_o we_o christ_n jesus_n crucify_v and_o in_o he_o remission_n of_o sin_n and_o salvation_n now_o on_o the_o other_o side_n come_v the_o devil_n and_o set_v before_o we_o all_o sort_n of_o vain_a pleasure_n and_o delight_n show_v to_o every_o man_n those_o sin_n to_o which_o he_o be_v give_v and_o with_o they_o all_o the_o profit_n or_o pleasure_n that_o usual_o accompany_v such_o sin_n now_o most_o man_n have_v this_o choice_n set_v before_o they_o do_v leave_v the_o true_a and_o substantial_a blessing_n of_o god_n and_o come_v to_o satan_n paint_a pageant_n and_o there_o make_v choice_n of_o sin_n with_o those_o base_a companion_n that_o do_v attend_v she_o this_o be_v too_o apparent_a to_o be_v deny_v for_o howsoever_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v preach_v unto_o we_o and_o we_o do_v hear_v the_o same_o yet_o we_o prefer_v the_o vanity_n and_o pleasure_n of_o the_o sinful_a world_n before_o christ_n crucify_v make_v no_o account_n of_o he_o nor_o of_o our_o own_o salvation_n by_o he_o in_o comparison_n of_o the_o present_a profit_n and_o pleasure_n of_o sin_n but_o we_o must_v pray_v to_o god_n to_o give_v we_o spiritual_a wisdom_n and_o the_o gift_n of_o discern_v that_o now_o when_o god_n set_v before_o we_o thing_n so_o far_o differ_v we_o may_v have_v grace_n to_o discern_v between_o they_o and_o withal_o to_o prefer_v and_o make_v choice_n of_o the_o best_a and_o to_o refuse_v the_o worst_a but_o as_o for_o they_o that_o be_v so_o mad_a in_o their_o choice_n that_o they_o now_o prefer_v sin_n before_o the_o blessing_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n they_o shall_v see_v the_o day_n when_o they_o will_v
some_o less_o because_o some_o be_v great_a and_o some_o lesser_a than_o other_o whence_o this_o rule_n may_v be_v set_v down_o that_o when_o 2._o comm._n of_o god_n cross_a one_o another_o so_o as_o a_o man_n obey_v one_o break_v another_o then_o a_o man_n must_v prefer_v the_o great_a as_o for_o example_n this_o be_v god_n comm._n honour_n god_n command_v in_o the_o first_o table_n again_o the_o 5._o comm._n say_v honour_n parent_n &_o magistrate_n now_o if_o parent_n or_o magistrate_n command_v any_o thing_n the_o do_v whereof_o will_v dishonour_n god_n be_v contrary_a to_o the_o first_o table_n then_o the_o 5._o comm._n give_v place_n unto_o the_o first_o and_o a_o man_n must_v rather_o disobey_v magistrate_n and_o parent_n than_o dishonour_n god_n for_o the_o main_a duty_n of_o the_o first_o table_n take_v place_n before_o the_o main_a duty_n of_o the_o second_o and_o therefore_o christ_n say_v if_o any_o man_n come_v to_o i_o and_o hate_v not_o his_o father_n and_o mother_n wife_n and_o child_n brethren_n and_o sister_n yea_o and_o his_o own_o life_n also_o he_o can_v be_v my_o disciple_n meaning_n that_o if_o father_n or_o mother_n wife_n or_o child_n will_v draw_v we_o from_o god_n we_o must_v hate_v they_o rather_o than_o disobey_v god_n again_o a_o commandment_n ceremonial_a and_o a_o commandment_n of_o love_n and_o mercy_n concur_v together_o and_o it_o so_o fall_v out_o that_o they_o shall_v be_v both_o keep_v and_o can_v in_o this_o case_n therefore_o the_o ceremonial_a law_n of_o the_o first_o table_n must_v give_v place_n to_o the_o law_n of_o charity_n and_o love_n in_o the_o second_o table_n because_o the_o ceremony_n be_v the_o inferior_a duty_n of_o the_o first_o but_o charity_n and_o mercy_n the_o principal_a duty_n of_o the_o second_o table_n for_o example_n the_o lord_n injoin_v we_o in_o the_o four_o commandment_n to_o rest_n on_o the_o sabaoth_n day_n now_o it_o fall_v out_o that_o my_o neighbour_n house_n be_v on_o fire_n upon_o the_o sabaoth_n day_n whether_o then_o may_v i_o labour_v with_o my_o neighbour_n that_o day_n to_o save_v his_o house_n answ._n i_o may_v for_o the_o strict_a observation_n of_o rest_n on_o the_o sabaoth_n day_n be_v a_o ceremony_n but_o the_o quench_n of_o fire_n in_o my_o neighbour_n house_n be_v a_o work_n of_o mercy_n and_o a_o main_a duty_n of_o the_o second_o table_n and_o therefore_o must_v take_v place_n before_o a_o ceremonial_a duty_n of_o the_o 1._o table_n three_o god_n have_v give_v we_o ten_o commandment_n contain_v all_o ordinary_a duty_n both_o of_o piety_n and_o of_o mercy_n yet_o if_o god_n give_v we_o a_o particular_a and_o special_a commandment_n contrary_a to_o any_o of_o the_o ten_o that_o must_v stand_v and_o the_o ordinary_a commandment_n must_v give_v place_n and_o yield_v unto_o it_o as_o for_o example_n the_o second_o commandment_n forbid_v any_o man_n to_o make_v any_o grave_a image_n yet_o moses_n by_o a_o special_a commandment_n 21.8.9_o make_v a_o brazen_a serpent_n in_o the_o wilderness_n to_o be_v a_o figure_n of_o christ._n so_o the_o six_o commandment_n thou_o shall_v not_o kill_v be_v a_o ordinary_a commandment_n and_o bind_v the_o conscience_n of_o every_o man_n to_o obey_v the_o same_o yet_o god_n come_v with_o a_o special_a commandment_n to_o abraham_n &_o say_v abraham_n kill_v thy_o son_n &_o therefore_o the_o ordinary_a commandment_n of_o the_o 2._o table_n give_v place_n for_o the_o time_n and_o so_o go_v all_o the_o commandment_n thou_o shall_v do_v thus_o &_o thus_o unless_o god_n command_v otherwise_o for_o god_n be_v a_o absolute_a lord_n and_o so_o above_o his_o own_o law_n he_o be_v not_o bind_v unto_o they_o but_o may_v dispense_v with_o they_o and_o with_o we_o for_o the_o keep_n of_o they_o at_o his_o will_n and_o pleasure_n and_o thus_o be_v abraham_n warrant_v to_o sacrifice_v his_o son_n namely_o by_o virtue_n of_o a_o special_a and_o personal_a commandment_n to_o himself_o alone_o but_o if_o abraham_n have_v not_o have_v this_o particular_a commandment_n the_o sacrifice_a of_o isaac_n have_v be_v unlawful_a and_o abominable_a for_o the_o kill_n of_o a_o man_n be_v a_o heinous_a sin_n much_o more_o be_v the_o kill_n of_o a_o man_n own_o son_n without_o a_o special_a commandment_n for_o that_o be_v against_o nature_n and_o therefore_o the_o lord_n by_o jeremie_n do_v severe_o condemn_v the_o jew_n for_o burn_a their_o son_n and_o daughter_n in_o sacrifice_n jer._n 7.31_o without_o any_o warrant_n from_o he_o though_o it_o may_v be_v they_o will_v pretend_v their_o imitation_n of_o abraham_n in_o the_o sacrifice_a of_o isaac_n yea_o and_o to_o show_v his_o detestation_n of_o that_o fact_n he_o change_v the_o name_n of_o the_o place_n call_z it_o the_o valley_n of_o slaughter_n verse_n 32_o and_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n it_o be_v use_v to_o signify_v hell_n math._n 5.29.30_o and_o because_o this_o sin_n be_v so_o odious_a it_o be_v rather_o to_o be_v think_v that_o jephte_n do_v not_o kill_v his_o daughter_n in_o sacrifice_n to_o the_o lord_n as_o some_o think_v he_o do_v especial_o be_v a_o man_n commend_v for_o his_o faith_n by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n but_o hereof_o we_o shall_v speak_v when_o we_o come_v to_o his_o example_n verse_n 32._o thus_o we_o see_v abraham_n have_v ground_n for_o this_o fact_n to_o do_v it_o by_o faith_n even_o god_n special_a command_n but_o here_o it_o will_v be_v say_v that_o abraham_n do_v not_o offer_v up_o his_o son_n indeed_o for_o though_o he_o have_v bind_v he_o and_o lay_v he_o on_o the_o altar_n yet_o when_o he_o lift_v up_o the_o knife_n to_o have_v kill_v he_o the_o angel_n stay_v his_o hand_n and_o suffer_v he_o not_o gen._n 22.11.12_o how_o then_o can_v it_o be_v true_a which_o be_v here_o say_v that_o he_o offer_v he_o up_o for_o the_o writer_n of_o a_o story_n must_v make_v true_a report_n but_o it_o seem_v the_o writer_n hereof_o be_v deceive_v in_o the_o very_a principal_a point_n affirm_v isaac_n be_v offer_v when_o in_o truth_n he_o be_v not_o answer_n god_n be_v the_o author_n and_o inditer_n of_o this_o story_n and_o in_o god_n sight_n and_o estimation_n he_o be_v offer_v though_o not_o in_o the_o world_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v so_o say_v in_o regard_n of_o god_n acceptance_n because_o abraham_n purpose_n be_v to_o have_v do_v it_o and_o if_o he_o have_v not_o be_v stay_v he_o have_v do_v it_o where_o we_o note_v a_o point_n of_o special_a comfort_n to_o wit_n that_o god_n in_o his_o child_n and_o servant_n do_v accept_v the_o will_n for_o the_o deed_n so_o s._n paul_n say_v 2._o corinth_n 8.12_o if_o there_o be_v a_o willing_a mind_n it_o be_v accept_v according_a to_o that_o a_o man_n have_v and_o not_o according_a to_o that_o he_o have_v not_o speak_v of_o their_o relieve_v of_o the_o poor_a he_o tell_v they_o that_o god_n regard_v not_o so_o much_o a_o man_n work_n as_o the_o heart_n wherewith_o he_o do_v the_o work_n and_o therefore_o the_o poor_a widow_n in_o the_o gospel_n luk_n 21.3_o be_v say_v by_o our_o saviour_n christ_n to_o have_v cast_v more_o into_o the_o treasury_n though_o it_o be_v but_o two_o mite_n than_o many_o rich_a man_n that_o cast_v in_o great_a abundance_n more_o in_o heart_n not_o in_o substance_n this_o serve_v to_o stay_v the_o heart_n of_o many_o a_o man_n that_o be_v find_v bruise_v in_o conscience_n for_o see_v his_o weak_a obedience_n and_o the_o greatness_n of_o his_o sin_n past_a he_o begin_v to_o call_v his_o election_n into_o question_n now_o what_o must_v a_o man_n do_v in_o this_o case_n answer_n sure_o he_o must_v go_v on_o forward_o in_o obedience_n and_o endeavour_v himself_o to_o continue_v therein_o and_o then_o though_o he_o fail_v many_o time_n through_o infirmity_n yet_o for_o his_o endeavour_n god_n will_v accept_v of_o he_o and_o be_v please_v with_o the_o same_o this_o doctrine_n be_v very_o comfortable_a to_o a_o distress_a conscience_n but_o yet_o it_o must_v not_o make_v any_o man_n bold_a to_o sin_n for_o many_o abuse_n this_o doctrine_n and_o say_v that_o though_o they_o live_v in_o sin_n yet_o god_n will_v accept_v of_o they_o for_o they_o love_v god_n in_o their_o heart_n but_o they_o deceive_v themselves_o for_o this_o merciful_a deal_n of_o god_n in_o accept_v the_o will_n for_o the_o deed_n be_v only_o towards_o those_o that_o endeavour_n themselves_o sincere_o to_o leave_v their_o sin_n to_o believe_v in_o god_n and_o to_o walk_v in_o obedience_n but_o such_o as_o flatter_v themselves_o lie_v in_o their_o sin_n god_n will_v not_o be_v merciful_a unto_o they_o deut._n 29.19.20_o here_o further_o it_o may_v well_o be_v demand_v how_o abraham_n can_v take_v isaac_n and_o bind_v he_o and_o lay_v he_o on_o the_o altar_n to_o have_v
not_o for_o himself_o but_o for_o our_o sake_n now_o further_o god_n tempt_v man_n three_o way_n first_o by_o judgement_n and_o calamity_n in_o this_o world_n so_o the_o lord_n say_v to_o the_o israelite_n deut._n 8.2_o thou_o shall_v remember_v all_o the_o way_n which_o the_o lord_n thy_o god_n lead_v thou_o this_o forty_o year_n in_o the_o wilderness_n for_o to_o humble_v thou_o for_o to_o prove_v and_o to_o know_v what_o be_v in_o thy_o heart_n that_o journey_n may_v have_v be_v go_v in_o forty_o day_n but_o god_n do_v lead_v they_o in_o it_o forty_o year_n to_o prove_v and_o try_v by_o this_o unwoonted_a calamity_n whether_o they_o will_v obey_v he_o or_o not_o so_o likewise_o god_n suffer_v false_a prophet_n and_o dreamer_n of_o dream_n to_o come_v among_o the_o people_n for_o this_o end_n to_o prove_v they_o and_o to_o know_v whether_o they_o love_v the_o lord_n their_o god_n with_o all_o their_o heart_n and_o with_o all_o their_o soul_n deut._n 13.3_o now_o this_o first_o kind_n of_o temptation_n by_o outward_a judgement_n be_v most_o grievous_a when_o the_o lord_n lay_v his_o own_o hand_n upon_o his_o servant_n so_o heavy_o as_o they_o shall_v think_v themselves_o to_o be_v quite_o forsake_v in_o this_o temptation_n be_v david_n as_o we_o may_v read_v at_o large_a psal._n the_o 6_o and_o psal._n 38_o and_o job_n be_v afflict_v not_o only_o outward_o in_o body_n but_o inward_o in_o mind_n cry_v out_o that_o the_o arrow_n of_o the_o almighty_a be_v in_o he_o job_n 6.4_o and_o through_o the_o whole_a chapter_n he_o bewail_v his_o grievous_a estate_n by_o reason_n of_o this_o temptation_n second_o god_n tempt_v his_o servant_n by_o withdraw_a his_o grace_n from_o they_o and_o by_o forsake_v they_o in_o part_n and_o this_o kind_n of_o temptation_n be_v as_o grievous_a as_o the_o former_a herewith_o be_v good_a king_n hezekias_n tempt_v for_o as_o we_o may_v read_v god_n leave_v he_o to_o a_o sin_n of_o vain_a glory_n and_o the_o end_n be_v to_o try_v he_o and_o to_o prove_v all_o that_o be_v in_o his_o heart_n 2._o chron._n 32.31_o three_o god_n tempt_v his_o servant_n by_o give_v unto_o they_o some_o strange_a and_o extraordinary_a commandment_n as_o in_o the_o gospel_n when_o the_o young_a man_n come_v to_o our_o saviour_n christ_n and_o ask_v he_o what_o good_a thing_n he_o may_v do_v to_o have_v eternal_a life_n math._n 19.16_o christ_n bid_v he_o go_v and_o sell_v all_o that_o he_o have_v and_o give_v to_o the_o poor_a this_o commandment_n have_v this_o use_n to_o be_v a_o commandment_n of_o trial_n unto_o the_o young_a man_n whereby_o god_n will_v prove_v what_o be_v in_o his_o heart_n that_o the_o same_o may_v be_v manifest_a both_o to_o himself_o &_o unto_o other_o and_o under_o this_o kind_n we_o must_v comprehend_v this_o temptation_n of_o abraham_n for_o when_o god_n say_v abraham_n offer_v up_o thy_o son_n in_o sacrifice_n it_o be_v not_o a_o commandment_n require_v actual_a obedience_n for_o god_n mean_v not_o that_o abraham_n shall_v kill_v his_o son_n but_o only_a of_o trial_n to_o see_v what_o he_o will_v do_v and_o these_o be_v god_n temptation_n whereby_o he_o prove_v his_o servant_n yet_o far_o the_o temptation_n of_o god_n whereby_o he_o tempt_v his_o child_n have_v two_o end_n 1._o they_o serve_v to_o disclose_v and_o make_v evident_a the_o grace_n of_o god_n that_o be_v hide_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o his_o servant_n so_o s._n james_n say_v my_o brethren_n count_v it_o exceed_v great_a joy_n when_o you_o fall_v into_o diverse_a tentation_n jame_v 1.2_o the_o reason_n follow_v know_v that_o the_o trial_n of_o your_o faith_n bring_v forth_o patience_n verse_n 3_o where_o we_o see_v this_o end_n of_o temptation_n set_v down_o to_o manifest_v the_o gift_n of_o patience_n wrought_v in_o the_o heart_n and_o saint_n peter_n say_v to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n that_o they_o be_v in_o heaviness_n through_o manifold_a tentation_n that_o the_o trial_n of_o their_o faith_n be_v much_o more_o precious_a than_o gold_n that_o perish_v though_o it_o be_v try_v with_o fire_n may_v be_v find_v unto_o their_o praise_n and_o honour_n and_o glory_n at_o the_o appear_v of_o the_o lord_n jesu_n 1._o peter_n 1.6.7_o where_o temptation_n have_v this_o use_n to_o make_v manifest_a the_o soundness_n of_o man_n faith_n in_o god_n as_o the_o fire_n do_v prove_v the_o gold_n to_o be_v good_a and_o precious_a so_o in_o this_o place_n the_o temptation_n of_o abraham_n serve_v for_o this_o end_n to_o make_v manifest_a his_o notable_a faith_n and_o obedience_n unto_o god_n with_o a_o reverend_a fear_n of_o his_o majesty_n as_o the_o lord_n himself_o testify_v say_v now_o i_o know_v that_o thou_o fear_v god_n see_v for_o my_o sake_n thou_o have_v not_o spare_v thy_o only_a son_n genesis_n 22.12_o mean_v this_o now_o i_o have_v make_v thy_o faith_n and_o love_n and_o fear_v of_o i_o so_o manifest_a that_o all_o the_o world_n may_v see_v it_o and_o speak_v of_o it_o second_o god_n temptation_n serve_v to_o manifest_v hide_a sin_n and_o corruption_n partly_o to_o a_o man_n own_o self_n and_o partly_o to_o the_o world_n and_o for_o this_o end_n god_n tempt_v hezekias_n for_o be_v recover_v of_o his_o sickness_n after_o that_o the_o king_n of_o ashur_n his_o great_a enemy_n be_v vanquish_v especial_o when_o the_o ambassador_n of_o the_o king_n of_o babel_n come_v to_o inquire_v of_o the_o wonder_n which_o be_v do_v in_o the_o land_n 32.31_o god_n leave_v he_o that_o he_o may_v see_v his_o sin_n and_o the_o corruption_n of_o his_o nature_n as_o pride_n and_o vainglory_n wherewith_o he_o be_v puff_v up_o at_o the_o come_n of_o the_o ambassador_n to_o he_o and_o thus_o he_o who_o little_a thought_n that_o pride_n and_o vainglory_n can_v have_v take_v such_o hold_n on_o he_o perceive_v how_o his_o heart_n be_v lift_v up_o in_o he_o be_v doubtless_o much_o humble_v at_o the_o sight_n of_o this_o his_o so_o great_a corruption_n for_o when_o the_o prophet_n come_v unto_o he_o he_o submit_v himself_o to_o the_o word_n of_o reproof_n isaiah_n 39.8_o first_o whereas_o abraham_n the_o servant_n of_o god_n be_v tempt_v that_o be_v be_v prove_v and_o try_v by_o god_n himself_o here_o we_o be_v teach_v that_o if_o we_o persuade_v ourselves_o to_o be_v the_o servant_n of_o god_n as_o abraham_n be_v than_o we_o must_v look_v to_o have_v temptation_n at_o god_n own_o hand_n for_o his_o example_n be_v a_o pattern_n for_o we_o and_o therefore_o in_o he_o we_o must_v see_v that_o which_o we_o must_v look_v to_o have_v for_o it_o can_v not_o be_v needful_a for_o abraham_n but_o it_o may_v be_v also_o needful_a to_o us._n in_o regard_n whereof_o saint_n peter_n count_v it_o as_o a_o thing_n necessary_a that_o man_n shall_v fall_v into_o sundry_a temptation_n 1.16_o that_o the_o trial_n of_o their_o faith_n may_v be_v unto_o their_o praise_n so_o that_o in_o this_o life_n we_o must_v look_v for_o trial_n and_o the_o more_o glorious_a our_o faith_n be_v and_o the_o more_o like_a to_o our_o father_n abraham_n the_o more_o trial_n shall_v we_o undergo_v again_o see_v we_o must_v be_v try_v therefore_o every_o one_o of_o we_o must_v labour_v for_o soundness_n of_o grace_n in_o our_o heart_n as_o of_o faith_n repentance_n hope_v and_o of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n though_o they_o be_v but_o little_a in_o measure_n for_o we_o must_v come_v to_o trial_n &_o it_o must_v appear_v whether_o we_o be_v hot_a or_o cold_a now_o if_o we_o have_v not_o soundness_n of_o grace_n in_o we_o in_o the_o time_n of_o trial_n then_o look_v as_o dross_n consume_v in_o the_o fire_n when_o as_o gold_n come_v out_o more_o clear_a so_o shall_v hypocrisy_n formality_n and_o all_o temporize_a profession_n come_v to_o nothing_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o tentation_n when_o sound_a grace_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n shall_v pass_v through_o and_o shine_v more_o pure_a and_o perfect_a after_o than_o before_o three_o consider_v we_o be_v to_o look_v for_o trial_n and_o temptation_n from_o god_n therefore_o we_o must_v be_v careful_a to_o remember_v and_o practise_v that_o counsel_n of_o christ_n to_o his_o disciple_n before_o his_o passion_n watch_n and_o pray_v that_o you_o enter_v not_o into_o temptation_n math._n 26.41_o and_o because_o they_o be_v careless_a in_o practise_v this_o duty_n therefore_o they_o fall_v into_o temptation_n especial_o peter_n fall_v most_o grievous_o by_o deny_v his_o master_n we_o must_v persuade_v ourselves_o that_o the_o same_o commandment_n be_v give_v to_o we_o for_o god_n will_v prove_v we_o by_o temptation_n to_o make_v manifest_a the_o corruption_n that_o be_v in_o our_o heart_n we_o therefore_o consider_v our_o own_o estate_n must_v pray_v for_o god_n assist_v and_o strengthen_v grace_n
their_o heart_n and_o cleanse_v the_o corruption_n thereof_o and_o bring_v forth_o obedience_n in_o life_n second_o this_o power_n of_o true_a faith_n in_o man_n heart_n must_v teach_v we_o not_o to_o content_v ourselves_o with_o a_o general_a faith_n and_o knowledge_n in_o religion_n but_o to_o go_v further_o and_o to_o get_v a_o sound_a faith_n that_o may_v purify_v the_o heart_n at_o least_o in_o some_o true_a measure_n for_o save_v faith_n will_v cleanse_v a_o man_n in_o every_o part_n of_o soul_n and_o body_n &_o strengthen_v his_o soul_n in_o temptation_n quest._n here_o it_o may_v be_v ask_v how_o it_o can_v be_v true_o say_v that_o isaac_n be_v abraham_n only_o beget_v son_n see_v ishmael_n be_v also_o his_o son_n and_o be_v bear_v before_o isaac_n as_o be_v evident_a gen._n 16_o i_o answer_v two_o way_n first_o that_o ishmael_n by_o god_n appointment_n be_v put_v out_o of_o abraham_n house_n for_o it_o be_v the_o express_a commandment_n of_o god_n to_o put_v forth_o the_o bondwoman_n and_o her_o son_n gen._n 21.10_o and_o so_o be_v make_v no_o child_n of_o abraham_n second_o ishmael_n be_v his_o child_n indeed_o yet_o not_o by_o sarah_n but_o by_o agar_n a_o bond_n woman_n and_o so_o be_v as_o i_o may_v say_v base_a bear_v whereupon_o he_o be_v repute_v for_o no_o son_n but_o isaac_n be_v the_o only_o beget_v lawful_o which_o may_v be_v a_o item_n to_o beware_v of_o the_o bed_n defile_v see_v such_o offspring_n be_v so_o debase_v with_o the_o lord_n now_o follow_v the_o three_o impediment_n of_o abraham_n faith_n which_o be_v also_o a_o notable_a circumstance_n whereby_o the_o same_o faith_n be_v commend_v and_o it_o be_v take_v from_o the_o person_n of_o abraham_n in_o these_o word_n who_o have_v receive_v the_o promise_n the_o meaning_n of_o the_o word_n who_o this_o must_v be_v refer_v to_o the_o person_n of_o abraham_n of_o who_o the_o holy_a ghost_n here_o speak_v receive_v the_o promise_n that_o be_v by_o faith_n for_o when_o god_n make_v his_o promise_n unto_o abraham_n he_o do_v not_o only_o hear_v they_o but_o which_o be_v the_o principal_a point_n of_o all_o he_o believe_v they_o and_o apply_v the_o same_o effectual_o unto_o his_o own_o soul_n so_o much_o do_v the_o word_n receive_v import_n now_o it_o be_v say_v that_o he_o receive_v not_o one_o promise_n but_o the_o promise_v plural_o for_o these_o cause_n first_o because_o god_n have_v make_v one_o main_a promise_n unto_o he_o touch_v christ_n do_v repeat_v and_o renew_v the_o same_o diverse_a time_n second_o because_o god_n have_v make_v diverse_a particular_a promise_n unto_o he_o as_o first_o that_o he_o will_v be_v his_o god_n and_o the_o god_n of_o his_o seed_n gen._n 17.7_o second_o that_o he_o will_v give_v he_o a_o child_n in_o his_o old_a age_n gen._n 17.16_o three_o that_o unto_o he_o and_o his_o seed_n he_o will_v give_v the_o land_n of_o canaan_n for_o ever_o gen._n 13.15_o four_o that_o in_o isaac_n he_o will_v bless_v all_o the_o nation_n of_o the_o earth_n genesis_n 21.12_o and_o because_o the_o receive_n of_o god_n promise_n in_o general_n can_v seem_v no_o great_a impediment_n to_o abraham_n work_n of_o faith_n therefore_o the_o holy_a ghost_n annex_v his_o receive_n of_o a_o particular_a promise_n in_o isaac_n in_o the_o 18._o verse_n to_o who_o it_o be_v say_v in_o isaac_n shall_v thy_o seed_n be_v call_v which_o may_v seem_v impossible_a to_o stand_v with_o the_o do_v of_o this_o work_n in_o sacrifice_v his_o son_n and_o therefore_o the_o consideration_n of_o it_o in_o abraham_n must_v needs_o be_v a_o great_a impediment_n to_o he_o in_o this_o work_n for_o he_o go_v about_o to_o kill_v isaac_n in_o obedience_n to_o god_n command_n in_o who_o life_n he_o believe_v to_o receive_v the_o blessing_n promise_v of_o god_n here_o then_o observe_v a_o most_o wonderful_a impediment_n to_o abraham_n faith_n which_o above_o all_o may_v have_v hinder_v he_o from_o obey_v god_n for_o how_o can_v he_o choose_v but_o reason_n thus_o with_o himself_o god_n have_v make_v unto_o i_o many_o gracious_a promise_n and_o that_o which_o be_v more_o he_o have_v say_v that_o in_o my_o son_n isaac_n the_o same_o must_v he_o accomplish_v and_o in_o he_o all_o the_o nation_n of_o the_o earth_n must_v be_v bless_v now_o then_o if_o i_o shall_v kill_v and_o sacrifice_v my_o son_n how_o shall_v these_o promise_n be_v accomplish_v and_o reason_n in_o this_o case_n will_v say_v i_o see_v no_o way_n but_o that_o the_o promise_n be_v go_v and_o all_o hope_v lose_v but_o what_o do_v abraham_n in_o this_o case_n for_o all_o this_o he_o do_v sacrifice_v his_o son_n and_o that_o by_o faith_n still_o believe_v and_o hold_v assure_o that_o though_o isaac_n be_v sacrifice_v and_o slay_v yet_o in_o he_o shall_v all_o the_o nation_n of_o the_o earth_n be_v bless_v here_o than_o we_o note_v this_o special_a point_n wherein_o the_o faith_n of_o abraham_n do_v notable_o appear_v that_o when_o abraham_n case_n in_o respect_n of_o enjoy_v the_o promise_n of_o god_n may_v seem_v desperate_a and_o void_a of_o all_o hope_n and_o comfort_n than_o he_o believe_v for_o when_o isaac_n be_v dead_a in_o all_o reason_n he_o can_v have_v no_o hope_n of_o the_o accomplish_n of_o god_n promise_n unto_o he_o because_o they_o be_v make_v to_o he_o in_o isaac_n isaac_n be_v the_o man_n in_o who_o all_o the_o nation_n of_o the_o earth_n shall_v be_v bless_v and_o yet_o when_o all_o hope_n be_v pass_v in_o man_n reason_n then_o good_a abraham_n set_v his_o heart_n to_o believe_v this_o practice_n of_o abraham_n must_v be_v a_o pattern_n for_o we_o to_o observe_v and_o follow_v all_o our_o life_n long_o in_o the_o matter_n of_o our_o salvation_n if_o it_o fall_v out_o that_o we_o shall_v doubt_v of_o our_o salvation_n and_o feel_v many_o thing_n in_o we_o that_o will_v carry_v we_o to_o despair_v when_o we_o be_v in_o this_o case_n and_o feel_v no_o comfort_n then_o let_v we_o call_v to_o mind_n abraham_n practice_n who_o believe_v god_n promise_n when_o the_o foundation_n thereof_o be_v take_v away_o even_o so_o let_v we_o do_v at_o the_o same_o instant_n when_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n seem_v to_o be_v frustrate_a and_o we_o have_v no_o hope_n of_o the_o accomplishment_n thereof_o than_o we_o must_v cast_v our_o soul_n upon_o it_o for_o we_o must_v not_o only_o believe_v when_o we_o feel_v comfort_n in_o our_o conscience_n concern_v god_n mercy_n but_o even_o then_o when_o god_n seem_v to_o stand_v against_o we_o and_o when_o we_o feel_v in_o our_o soul_n the_o very_a gall_n of_o hell_n then_o i_o say_v we_o must_v believe_v in_o paul_n dangerous_a voyage_n towards_o rome_n when_o he_o be_v in_o the_o ship_n with_o the_o mariner_n and_o centurion_n there_o arise_v a_o great_a tempest_n and_o neither_o sun_n nor_o star_n appear_v for_o many_o day_n so_o that_o as_o the_o text_n say_v all_o hope_n that_o they_o shall_v be_v save_v be_v take_v away_o act_n 27.20_o now_o what_o say_v paul_n in_o this_o extremity_n of_o danger_n now_o i_o exhort_v you_o to_o be_v of_o good_a courage_n for_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o loss_n of_o any_o man_n life_n save_v of_o the_o ship_n only_o verse_n 22._o and_o so_o persuade_v they_o to_o take_v bread_n even_o so_o when_o our_o case_n fall_v out_o to_o be_v this_o that_o either_o by_o reason_n of_o sin_n and_o of_o the_o temptation_n of_o satan_n or_o else_o by_o reason_n of_o some_o outward_a calamity_n and_o trouble_n we_o feel_v our_o soul_n as_o it_o be_v overwhelm_v with_o sorrow_n and_o even_o enter_v into_o destruction_n and_o can_v neither_o see_v as_o it_o be_v light_n of_o sun_n or_o star_n then_o we_o must_v set_v before_o we_o god_n promise_n and_o labour_n to_o believe_v the_o same_o so_o david_n be_v in_o great_a affliction_n and_o grievous_a temptation_n say_v thus_o of_o himself_o psal._n 77.2_o 7_o 8_o 9_o 10_o in_o the_o day_n of_o my_o trouble_n i_o seek_v the_o lord_n my_o sore_n run_v and_o cease_v not_o in_o the_o night_n my_o soul_n refuse_v comfort_n yet_o at_o the_o very_a same_o instant_n he_o pray_v when_o his_o spirit_n be_v full_a of_o anguish_n and_o though_o he_o seem_v as_o it_o be_v to_o despair_v when_o he_o say_v will_v the_o lord_n absent_v himself_o for_o ever_o and_o will_v he_o show_v no_o more_o favour_n be_v his_o mercy_n clean_o go_v do_v his_o promise_n fail_v for_o evermore_o and_o have_v god_n forget_v to_o be_v merciful_a etc._n etc._n yet_o he_o check_n himself_o and_o say_v this_o be_v my_o death_n and_o my_o weakness_n even_o so_o every_o true_a member_n of_o god_n church_n in_o the_o extremity_n of_o all_o temptation_n and_o in_o the_o time_n of_o desperation_n be_v bind_v
call_n eccles._n 10.4_o if_o the_o spirit_n of_o he_o that_o rule_v rise_v up_o against_o thou_o leave_v not_o thy_o place_n second_o hence_o we_o may_v learn_v that_o magistrate_n which_o be_v to_o govern_v the_o people_n aught_o to_o be_v man_n of_o courage_n in_o perform_v the_o duty_n of_o their_o call_n when_o too_o heavy_a a_o burden_n lie_v on_o moses_n in_o judge_v all_o the_o congregation_n himself_o jethro_n his_o father_n in_o law_n bid_v he_o provide_v among_o all_o the_o people_n man_n of_o courage_n fear_v god_n to_o be_v ruler_n exod._n 18.13_o 21._o now_o their_o courage_n must_v not_o be_v a_o proud_a haughtiness_n or_o a_o indiscreet_a cruelty_n but_o a_o godly_a boldness_n which_o may_v enable_v they_o to_o the_o duty_n of_o their_o call_n without_o fear_n of_o man_n to_o this_o end_n the_o lord_n put_v of_o his_o spirit_n upon_o the_o seventie_o which_o be_v to_o rule_v with_o moses_n numb_a 11.17_o now_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v not_o a_o spirit_n of_o fear_n but_o of_o power_n and_o of_o love_n &_o of_o a_o sound_a mind_n 2._o tim._n 1.7_o which_o show_v that_o in_o a_o magistrate_n must_v be_v courage_n to_o call_v and_o if_o need_v be_v to_o compel_v other_o to_o the_o duty_n of_o their_o call_n how_o great_a soever_o they_o be_v and_o it_o be_v a_o matter_n of_o great_a weight_n &_o moment_n in_o god_n church_n for_o the_o minister_n may_v teach_v and_o speak_v as_o much_o as_o he_o will_v or_o can_v yet_o unless_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o the_o spirit_n there_o be_v join_v the_o temporal_a sword_n of_o the_o magistrate_n to_o reform_v man_n life_n and_o to_o keep_v they_o from_o open_a sin_n against_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o to_o urge_v they_o to_o the_o duty_n which_o the_o minister_n teach_v sure_o their_o teach_n and_o preach_v will_v be_v to_o small_a effect_n last_o moses_n go_v with_o courage_n out_o of_o egypt_n this_o departure_n of_o he_o be_v a_o sign_n of_o our_o spiritual_a depart_n out_o of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o darkness_n for_o so_o paul_n apply_v it_o 1._o cor._n 10._o and_o therefore_o after_o moses_n example_n we_o must_v with_o courage_n come_v every_o day_n more_o and_o more_o out_o of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o darkness_n march_v forward_o with_o courageous_a faith_n and_o heavenly_a boldness_n towards_o our_o bless_a canaan_n the_o glory_n of_o heaven_n we_o must_v not_o leave_v this_o to_o the_o last_o breath_n and_o then_o think_v to_o have_v heaven_n gate_n ready_a open_a for_o we_o but_o we_o must_v enter_v into_o god_n kingdom_n in_o this_o life_n look_v as_o moses_n by_o his_o faith_n do_v depart_v bold_o out_o of_o egypt_n so_o must_v we_o in_o heart_n by_o faith_n depart_v out_o of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o sin_n this_o we_o shall_v do_v when_o we_o use_v mean_n to_o establish_v the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n jesus_n in_o our_o heart_n and_o do_v forsake_v the_o work_n of_o sin_n and_o darkness_n for_o look_v where_o there_o be_v no_o depart_n from_o sin_n there_o be_v no_o faith_n and_o therefore_o let_v we_o show_v ourselves_o to_o have_v true_a faith_n by_o depart_a more_o and_o more_o bold_o and_o joyful_o out_o of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o sin_n and_o satan_n that_o so_o it_o may_v appear_v we_o love_v the_o light_n and_o hate_v darkness_n and_o in_o this_o journey_n let_v we_o not_o fear_v any_o contrary_a commandment_n nor_o the_o furious_a wrath_n of_o spiritual_a pharaoh_n the_o devil_n nor_o all_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n for_o christ_n jesus_n be_v our_o guide_n because_o a_o man_n may_v think_v at_o the_o first_o that_o it_o be_v a_o rash_a and_o desperate_a part_n in_o moses_n thus_o bold_o to_o take_v away_o the_o israelite_n not_o regard_v pharaoh_n commandment_n therefore_o in_o the_o late_a part_n of_o the_o verse_n the_o holy_a ghost_n set_v down_o a_o reason_n that_o move_v moses_n to_o do_v so_o in_o these_o word_n for_o he_o endure_v or_o be_v courageous_a that_o be_v he_o take_v heart_n to_o himself_o why_o so_o because_o he_o see_v god_n that_o be_v invisible_a that_o be_v he_o cast_v the_o eye_n of_o faith_n upon_o god_n who_o have_v promise_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o power_n and_o presence_n in_o their_o deliverance_n so_o that_o it_o be_v the_o work_n of_o moses_n faith_n lay_v hold_n on_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n presence_n and_o protection_n from_o the_o rage_n of_o pharaoh_n that_o make_v he_o thus_o confident_a and_o bold_a hence_o we_o learn_v that_o the_o true_a valour_n and_o manhood_n that_o be_v in_o moses_n and_o be_v in_o all_o god_n child_n like_v unto_o he_o be_v a_o gift_n of_o grace_n among_o many_o gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n pour_v upon_o our_o saviour_n christ_n the_o spirit_n of_o strength_n or_o courage_n be_v one_o isaiah_n 11.2_o and_o jethroes_n counsel_n to_o moses_n be_v notable_a this_o way_n he_o bid_v he_o provide_v for_o governor_n man_n of_o courage_n fear_v god_n exod._n 18.21_o insinuate_v that_o true_a courage_n be_v always_o join_v with_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n and_o be_v a_o fruit_n of_o grace_n but_o some_o will_v say_v that_o many_o heathen_a man_n who_o never_o know_v the_o true_a god_n nor_o what_o the_o gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n mean_v have_v that_o courage_n answ._n true_a it_o be_v they_o have_v courage_n indeed_o but_o it_o be_v nothing_o but_o a_o carnal_a boldness_n not_o worthy_a the_o name_n of_o courage_n be_v only_o a_o shadow_n of_o true_a fortitude_n arise_v from_o ambition_n pride_n and_o other_o fleshly_a humour_n whereas_o moses_n his_o courage_n spring_v from_o the_o grace_n of_o faith_n in_o the_o merciful_a promise_n of_o god_n make_v unto_o he_o concern_v his_o deliverance_n &_o safety_n and_o indeed_o howsoever_o wicked_a man_n have_v a_o notable_a show_n of_o diverse_a virtue_n yet_o in_o the_o trial_n they_o prove_v but_o shadow_n for_o true_a valour_n and_o other_o virtue_n do_v always_o accompany_v regeneration_n as_o he_o that_o see_v he_o that_o be_v invisible_a here_o be_v the_o cause_n that_o make_v moses_n thus_o courageous_a and_o this_o will_v make_v any_o man_n bold_a if_o he_o can_v be_v persuade_v in_o his_o conscience_n of_o god_n special_a presence_n with_o he_o and_o of_o his_o providence_n and_o protection_n over_o he_o here_o then_o observe_v a_o singular_a fruit_n of_o faith_n it_o make_v god_n who_o be_v indeed_o invisible_a to_o be_v after_o a_o sort_n visible_a unto_o us._n moses_n by_o faith_n see_v he_o that_o be_v invisible_a for_o by_o faith_n he_o be_v persuade_v of_o god_n providence_n and_o special_a protection_n in_o the_o delivery_n of_o his_o people_n though_o pharaoh_n shall_v rage_v never_o so_o much_o so_o enoch_n be_v say_v to_o have_v walk_v with_o god_n 5.22_o because_o he_o see_v he_o by_o the_o eye_n of_o faith_n in_o all_o his_o affair_n and_o when_o joseph_n be_v allure_v to_o sin_n with_o his_o mistress_n what_o stay_v he_o sure_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n who_o he_o see_v by_o faith_n how_o can_v i_o do_v this_o great_a wickedness_n say_v joseph_n &_o so_o sin_n against_o god_n 39.9_o as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v i_o be_o always_o where_o god_n be_v present_a how_o then_o shall_v i_o do_v so_o wicked_o &_o god_n see_v it_o and_o the_o same_o be_v the_o state_n of_o all_o true_a believer_n their_o faith_n make_v the_o invisible_a god_n to_o be_v after_o a_o sort_n visible_a unto_o they_o so_o as_o a_o faithful_a man_n may_v say_v god_n be_v present_a with_o i_o and_o protect_v i_o whereby_o we_o may_v see_v what_o little_a faith_n be_v in_o the_o world_n for_o few_o can_v true_o say_v they_o see_v god_n which_o faith_n enable_v a_o man_n to_o do_v yea_o most_o man_n care_v so_o little_a to_o see_v god_n that_o he_o be_v far_o from_o their_o very_a thought_n many_o have_v make_v mean_n to_o see_v the_o devil_n but_o where_o be_v he_o that_o labour_v for_o such_o a_o measure_n of_o faith_n that_o he_o may_v see_v the_o invisible_a god_n if_o wicked_a man_n run_v to_o conjurer_n to_o see_v the_o devil_n who_o they_o shall_v once_o see_v to_o their_o sorrow_n let_v we_o labour_v for_o faith_n in_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n and_o this_o faith_n will_v make_v we_o so_o to_o endure_v in_o all_o tribulation_n as_o though_o we_o see_v god_n furthermore_o see_v moses_n by_o faith_n endure_v as_o he_o that_o see_v god_n we_o learn_v that_o the_o see_v of_o god_n by_o faith_n take_v away_o fear_v and_o give_v spiritual_a boldness_n this_o be_v a_o point_n of_o special_a use_n for_o natural_o man_n be_v fearful_a some_o can_v endure_v the_o dark_a nor_o solitary_a place_n for_o fear_n of_o the_o devil_n yea_o the_o shake_n of_o a_o leaf_n or_o the_o crawl_a of_o a_o worm_n do_v terrify_v other_o now_o howsoever_o some_o
to_o receive_v god_n command_n and_o to_o go_v at_o his_o call_n these_o be_v the_o signification_n of_o the_o passove_a which_o we_o must_v remember_v to_o make_v good_a use_n of_o in_o the_o course_n of_o our_o life_n and_o thus_o much_o of_o the_o first_o branch_n of_o this_o act_n of_o moses_n faith_n in_o ordain_v the_o passove_a the_o second_o branch_n of_o this_o work_n be_v this_o and_o the_o effusion_n of_o blood_n that_o be_v the_o sprinkle_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o lamb_n upon_o the_o post_n of_o their_o house_n and_o upon_o the_o door_n cheek_n which_o be_v a_o token_n to_o the_o israelite_n that_o the_o destroy_a angel_n shall_v not_o strike_v the_o first_o bear_v of_o the_o israelite_n either_o man_n or_o beast_n in_o man_n reason_n this_o may_v seem_v to_o be_v a_o weak_a &_o simple_a mean_n yet_o god_n ordain_v it_o to_o preserve_v all_o the_o first_o bear_v among_o the_o israelite_n and_o thus_o the_o lord_n use_v to_o deal_v that_o his_o people_n through_o the_o weakness_n of_o the_o mean_n may_v be_v bring_v to_o acknowledge_v god_n to_o be_v their_o protector_n and_o defender_n when_o the_o israelite_n be_v sting_v with_o the_o serpent_n 21._o a_o man_n will_v have_v think_v it_o have_v be_v the_o best_a way_n for_o their_o cure_n to_o have_v give_v they_o cunning_a surgeon_n but_o the_o lord_n ordain_v only_o a_o dead_a serpent_n of_o brass_n which_o they_o must_v look_v up_o unto_o and_o be_v cure_v 8._o a_o weak_a mean_n it_o be_v and_o yet_o the_o lord_n use_v it_o because_o he_o will_v have_v they_o to_o give_v all_o the_o glory_n unto_o he_o and_o not_o to_o ascribe_v the_o same_o either_o to_o themselves_o or_o to_o the_o mean_n further_o this_o sprinkle_n of_o the_o blood_n upon_o the_o door_n cheek_n and_o the_o post_n of_o their_o house_n have_v a_o notable_a signification_n namely_o of_o the_o sprinkle_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n upon_o the_o door_n of_o our_o heart_n to_o which_o peter_n allude_v 1._o peter_n 1.2_o through_o the_o obedience_n and_o sprinkle_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n christ._n and_o david_n when_o he_o say_v sprinkle_v i_o with_o hisope_n and_o i_o shall_v be_v clean_o david_n know_v well_o that_o the_o blood_n of_o beast_n can_v not_o take_v away_o sin_n and_o therefore_o no_o doubt_n by_o his_o save_a faith_n he_o have_v a_o eye_n to_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o messiah_n under_o legal_a term_n whence_o we_o be_v teach_v this_o lesson_n that_o as_o the_o israelite_n with_o their_o bodily_a hand_n do_v sprinkle_v the_o blood_n of_o the_o paschall_n lamb_n upon_o their_o door_n cheek_n &_o the_o post_n of_o their_o house_n so_o by_o the_o hand_n of_o faith_n every_o one_o of_o we_o must_v sprinkle_v the_o blood_n of_o christ_n upon_o our_o own_o heart_n which_o we_o shall_v then_o do_v when_o we_o do_v not_o only_o in_o general_n believe_v that_o christ_n be_v a_o saviour_n and_o redeemer_n but_o particular_o that_o he_o be_v a_o redeemer_n unto_o we_o and_o that_o the_o merit_n of_o his_o death_n and_o the_o benefit_n of_o his_o blood_n be_v we_o object_n but_o some_o will_v say_v if_o this_o be_v so_o than_o all_o be_v well_o for_o i_o do_v believe_v this_o answer_n herein_o very_o many_o deceive_v themselves_o think_v that_o they_o have_v faith_n when_o indeed_o they_o have_v none_o for_o look_v unto_o their_o way_n and_o see_v into_o their_o heart_n by_o their_o life_n and_o it_o will_v easy_o appear_v that_o they_o have_v nothing_o in_o they_o but_o ignorance_n security_n &_o presumption_n in_o sin_n now_o such_o man_n be_v deceiver_n of_o their_o own_o soul_n for_o after_o this_o sprinkle_n follow_v sanctification_n and_o rise_v from_o dead_a work_n to_o newness_n of_o life_n so_o that_o they_o that_o live_v in_o sin_n and_o yet_o say_v they_o have_v faith_n deceive_v themselves_o for_o if_o a_o man_n heart_n be_v sprinkle_v with_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n through_o faith_n it_o will_v change_v his_o life_n &_o conscience_n and_o make_v he_o a_o new_a creature_n for_o christ_n blood_n be_v a_o cleanse_n and_o purify_n blood_n insomuch_o as_o where_o it_o be_v true_o sprinkle_v it_o certain_o cleanse_v hebrew_n 9.14_o and_o thus_o much_o of_o this_o ceremony_n of_o sprinkle_v now_o follow_v the_o end_n of_o both_o these_o action_n in_o these_o word_n lest_o he_o that_o destroy_v the_o first_o bear_v shall_v touch_v they_o let_v we_o examine_v the_o word_n in_o order_n first_o by_o the_o destroyer_n be_v mean_v the_o angel_n of_o god_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o story_n exod._n 12.19_o who_o at_o midnight_n smite_v all_o the_o first_o bear_v of_o egypt_n both_o of_o man_n and_o beast_n where_o by_o the_o way_n we_o may_v take_v a_o view_n of_o the_o wonderful_a power_n and_o strength_n of_o god_n angel_n and_o also_o of_o their_o admirable_a swiftness_n and_o readiness_n in_o do_v the_o will_n of_o god_n that_o in_o one_o night_n even_o at_o midnight_n one_o of_o they_o can_v pass_v through_o the_o land_n of_o egypt_n and_o kill_v all_o the_o first_o bear_v of_o man_n and_o beast_n in_o every_o place_n of_o the_o egyptian_n the_o like_a we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o destruction_n of_o senacheribs_n host_n 37.26_o by_o one_o angel_n in_o one_o night_n the_o first_o bear_v that_o be_v both_o of_o man_n and_o beast_n so_o it_o be_v in_o the_o story_n exod._n 12.29_o but_o be_v so_o it_o may_v not_o unfit_o be_v demand_v how_o this_o passove_a can_v be_v a_o sacrament_n when_o as_o even_o the_o beast_n of_o the_o israelite_n have_v benefit_n by_o it_o for_o they_o be_v spare_v by_o reason_n of_o this_o sprinkle_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o paschall_n lamb_n answer_n that_o hinder_v not_o why_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v a_o sacrament_n for_o we_o must_v consider_v this_o passove_a two_o way_n first_o as_o a_o mean_n of_o temporal_a deliverance_n and_o so_o the_o beast_n have_v benefit_n by_o it_o second_o as_o a_o sign_n and_o seal_n of_o our_o spiritual_a deliverance_n from_o hell_n by_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o the_o lamb_n of_o god_n jesus_n christ_n which_o be_v the_o thing_n signify_v and_o so_o it_o be_v a_o sacrament_n for_o man_n salvation_n and_o thus_o the_o beast_n have_v no_o benefit_n by_o it_o the_o water_n that_o flow_v from_o the_o rock_n in_o the_o wilderness_n 20.11_o be_v a_o sacrament_n and_o the_o beast_n drink_v of_o the_o water_n but_o yet_o they_o do_v not_o partake_v of_o the_o lord_n sacrament_n for_o we_o must_v consider_v that_o water_n two_o way_n first_o as_o a_o mean_n to_o quench_v thirst_n and_o consequent_o as_o a_o outward_a benefit_n to_o preserve_v the_o life_n of_o the_o creature_n &_o so_o the_o beast_n have_v a_o benefit_n by_o it_o but_o consider_v it_o as_o a_o sign_n &_o seal_n of_o the_o water_n of_o life_n and_o so_o their_o beast_n have_v no_o benefit_n by_o it_o but_o only_o the_o believe_a people_n it_o follow_v shall_v touch_v they_o here_o be_v the_o very_a use_n and_o end_n of_o both_o the_o former_a action_n that_o the_o angel_n may_v not_o hurt_v they_o but_o pass_v by_o the_o israelite_n house_n here_o consider_v a_o notable_a point_n concern_v christ_n the_o true_a passeover_n namely_o that_o they_o which_o have_v their_o heart_n sprinkle_v with_o his_o blood_n shall_v be_v preserve_v from_o everlasting_a damnation_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o hereby_o they_o shall_v have_v deliverance_n from_o all_o temporal_a judgement_n in_o this_o life_n so_o far_o forth_o as_o they_o be_v curse_n &_o hurtful_a unto_o they_o so_o we_o may_v read_v before_o the_o destruction_n come_v to_o the_o city_n of_o the_o jew_n the_o angel_n of_o god_n go_v through_o the_o city_n with_o a_o writer_n inkhorn_n 9.4_o to_o set_v a_o mark_n upon_o those_o that_o do_v mourn_v and_o cry_v for_o their_o sin_n and_o david_n say_v the_o righteous_a man_n stand_v upon_o a_o rock_n 32.7_o so_o as_o the_o flood_n of_o many_o water_n shall_v not_o come_v near_o he_o this_o be_v a_o point_n of_o great_a use_n and_o the_o consideration_n hereof_o shall_v move_v all_o person_n that_o have_v be_v careless_a in_o religion_n now_o to_o become_v careful_a and_o desirous_a to_o have_v their_o heart_n wash_v in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n &_o those_o also_o which_o have_v any_o care_n must_v have_v double_a care_n hereof_o for_o they_o have_v freedom_n and_o security_n both_o in_o temporal_a and_o eternal_a judgement_n object_n but_o many_o of_o god_n dear_a child_n be_v take_v away_o in_o common_a judgement_n answ._n true_a but_o yet_o they_o be_v never_o hurt_v thereby_o but_o the_o judgement_n and_o affliction_n be_v sanctify_v unto_o they_o because_o they_o have_v their_o heart_n sprinkle_v with_o the_o blood_n of_o christ._n and_o as_o for_o those_o
it_o may_v be_v ask_v who_o they_o be_v that_o here_o pass_v through_o by_o faith_n the_o answer_n be_v the_o israelite_n 12._o but_o some_o will_v say_v we_o read_v in_o the_o history_n that_o when_o the_o people_n come_v to_o the_o red_a sea_n they_o be_v wonderful_o afraid_a and_o murmur_v against_o moses_n say_v that_o it_o have_v be_v better_a for_o they_o to_o have_v live_v in_o the_o bondage_n of_o egypt_n then_o to_o come_v into_o the_o desert_n and_o there_o die_v now_o how_o can_v they_o murmur_v impatient_o and_o fearful_o and_o yet_o pass_v through_o by_o faith_n answer_n at_o the_o first_o indeed_o they_o murmur_v when_o they_o see_v the_o danger_n they_o be_v in_o have_v the_o huge_a army_n of_o pharaoh_n follow_v they_o and_o the_o red_a sea_n before_o they_o and_o hill_n and_o mountain_n on_o each_o side_n but_o howsoever_o they_o murmur_v at_o the_o first_o yet_o when_o moses_n speak_v word_n of_o comfort_n unto_o they_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n bid_v they_o not_o to_o be_v afraid_a &c_n &c_n and_o when_o he_o hold_v up_o his_o rod_n and_o enter_v into_o the_o red_a sea_n before_o they_o than_o they_o follow_v he_o by_o faith_n and_o hereupon_o the_o holy_a ghost_n give_v unto_o they_o the_o title_n of_o true_a believer_n here_o we_o may_v learn_v that_o true_a faith_n in_o god_n child_n be_v mingle_v with_o unbelief_n the_o israelite_n faith_n be_v true_a faith_n but_o yet_o it_o be_v very_o imperfect_a and_o weak_a for_o if_o it_o have_v be_v perfect_a &_o sound_a faith_n they_o will_v never_o have_v murmur_v nor_o have_v be_v impatient_a and_o fearful_a but_o look_v as_o it_o be_v in_o nature_n so_o it_o be_v in_o grace_n in_o nature_n we_o can_v pass_v from_o one_o contrary_a to_o another_o but_o by_o the_o mixture_n of_o the_o contrary_n as_o in_o light_n and_o darkness_n the_o one_o do_v not_o follow_v the_o other_o immediate_o but_o first_o there_o be_v a_o mixture_n of_o they_o both_o in_o the_o dawn_n of_o the_o day_n and_o close_v of_o the_o night_n and_o so_o it_o be_v in_o other_o contrary_n even_o in_o those_o which_o concern_v the_o soul_n unbelief_n be_v a_o sin_n faith_n be_v a_o virtue_n and_o grace_n contrary_a to_o it_o now_o unbelief_n can_v be_v expel_v by_o faith_n before_o there_o be_v a_o mixture_n of_o they_o both_o and_o so_o when_o faith_n prevail_v unbelief_n decay_v neither_o can_v faith_n be_v ever_o perfect_a because_o it_o be_v ever_o mingle_v more_o or_o less_o with_o unbelief_n this_o plain_o overthrow_v the_o opinion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n who_o say_v that_o after_o a_o man_n be_v regenerate_v and_o believe_v there_o be_v nothing_o in_o he_o that_o god_n can_v hate_v for_o they_o imagine_v that_o he_o be_v so_o thorough_o sanctify_v that_o there_o be_v nothing_o in_o he_o which_o may_v proper_o be_v call_v a_o sin_n but_o here_o we_o see_v their_o doctrine_n be_v false_a see_v faith_n &_o unbelief_n be_v always_o mingle_v together_o second_o as_o it_o fall_v out_o with_o faith_n so_o it_o be_v with_o the_o rest_n of_o god_n grace_n look_v as_o faith_n be_v not_o perfect_a but_o mix_v with_o unbelief_n so_o be_v all_o other_o grace_n of_o god_n whatsoever_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n be_v not_o perfect_a in_o a_o man_n nor_o the_o love_n of_o god_n for_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n be_v mingle_v with_o the_o fear_n of_o man_n and_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n for_o his_o mercy_n be_v mingle_v with_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n for_o his_o judgement_n and_o hereby_o many_o be_v deceive_v for_o when_o they_o fear_v god_n for_o his_o punishment_n they_o think_v themselves_o to_o be_v most_o miserable_a and_o void_a of_o grace_n but_o they_o deceive_v themselves_o for_o there_o be_v no_o man_n upon_o the_o earth_n that_o fear_v god_n only_o for_o his_o mercy_n and_o do_v not_o fear_n god_n also_o for_o his_o punishment_n in_o part_n for_o god_n grace_n in_o this_o life_n be_v ever_o mingle_v with_o their_o contrary_n and_o therefore_o to_o imagine_v that_o a_o man_n may_v fear_v god_n for_o his_o mercy_n only_o and_o not_o for_o judgement_n also_o be_v to_o conceive_v of_o such_o a_o man_n as_o none_o be_v nor_o can_v be_v in_o this_o life_n for_o the_o best_a fear_n that_o be_v in_o any_o man_n live_v be_v a_o mix_a fear_n further_o when_o moses_n have_v speak_v word_n of_o comfort_n unto_o they_o the_o unbelieved_n and_o fearful_a israelite_n do_v stir_v up_o their_o heart_n to_o believe_v so_o we_o according_o must_v labour_n and_o strive_v against_o that_o inbred_a unbelief_n which_o be_v in_o we_o for_o every_o man_n have_v innumerable_a sin_n in_o he_o that_o resist_v faith_n and_o if_o they_o be_v not_o check_v and_o suppress_v they_o will_v master_v his_o faith_n but_o he_o that_o will_v have_v faith_n to_o continue_v and_o last_v must_v strive_v against_o natural_a unbelief_n as_o the_o israelite_n do_v in_o this_o place_n and_o as_o the_o man_n in_o the_o gospel_n mark_n 9.24_o when_o he_o say_v to_o christ_n lord_n i_o believe_v help_v my_o unbelief_n know_v that_o his_o unbelief_n do_v suppress_v his_o faith_n and_o so_o do_v the_o disciple_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n when_o they_o pray_v lord_n increase_v our_o faith_n luk._n 17.5_o and_o david_n be_v oppress_v with_o deadness_n of_o heart_n stir_v up_o his_o faith_n say_v why_o be_v thou_o cast_v down_o my_o soul_n etc._n etc._n wait_v on_o god_n psalm_n 42._o v._n 11._o for_o he_o that_o have_v faith_n be_v trouble_v with_o unbelief_n and_o the_o more_o it_o trouble_v he_o the_o less_o he_o believe_v unless_o he_o strive_v against_o it_o manful_o 2._o quest._n but_o how_o many_o of_o the_o israelite_n believe_v and_o go_v over_o by_o faith_n ans._n not_o all_o for_o paul_n say_v with_o many_o of_o they_o god_n be_v not_o well_o please_v for_o they_o be_v overthrow_v in_o the_o wilderness_n 1._o cor._n 10.5_o which_o show_v that_o all_o that_o pass_v over_o have_v not_o true_a faith_n for_o some_o believe_v and_o by_o the_o force_n of_o their_o faith_n all_o go_v over_o safe_o hence_o we_o note_v this_o which_o have_v be_v often_o teach_v we_o that_o a_o ungodly_a man_n receive_v many_o temporal_a benefit_n by_o the_o society_n of_o god_n people_n which_o believe_v as_o here_o the_o unbelieve_a israelite_n have_v this_o benefit_n to_o go_v through_o the_o red_a sea_n safe_o by_o reason_n of_o those_o that_o believe_v and_o in_o the_o former_a example_n the_o brute_n beast_n be_v free_v from_o kill_v by_o the_o angel_n because_o they_o belong_v to_o the_o host_n of_o the_o lord_n people_n now_o shall_v a_o brute_n beast_n have_v benefit_n by_o be_v with_o gods_n people_n and_o shall_v not_o a_o man_n much_o more_o yes_o undoubted_o for_o so_o we_o may_v read_v that_o for_o paul_n sake_n all_o the_o mariner_n and_o soldier_n that_o be_v in_o the_o ship_n be_v save_v from_o drown_v act._n 27.24_o this_o point_n must_v persuade_v every_o one_o of_o we_o to_o make_v choice_n of_o the_o godly_a for_o our_o society_n and_o company_n with_o who_o we_o live_v and_o converse_v for_o by_o they_o we_o reap_v many_o benefit_n and_o freedom_n also_o from_o many_o heavy_a judgement_n the_o three_o point_n be_v this_o when_o do_v the_o israelite_n believe_v this_o circumstance_n be_v worth_a the_o mark_v they_o believe_v when_o they_o pass_v through_o the_o red_a sea_n for_o they_o believe_v not_o only_o in_o general_n that_o god_n be_v their_o god_n as_o he_o have_v promise_v to_o their_o father_n but_o they_o believe_v that_o god_n will_v be_v with_o they_o and_o give_v they_o life_n in_o the_o middle_n of_o the_o red_a sea_n a_o notable_a point_n they_o believe_v as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o middle_n of_o their_o grave_n for_o so_o may_v the_o red_a sea_n be_v well_o call_v that_o god_n will_v give_v they_o life_n everlasting_a and_o preserve_v they_o safe_o through_o the_o sea_n and_o from_o their_o enemy_n in_o their_o example_n we_o be_v teach_v the_o same_o duty_n to_o do_v as_o they_o here_o do_v the_o child_n of_o god_n in_o this_o life_n have_v innumerable_a cause_n of_o desperation_n and_o sometime_o his_o own_o conscience_n will_v take_v part_n with_o satan_n in_o charge_v the_o soul_n to_o be_v in_o state_n of_o damnation_n in_o this_o heavy_a case_n what_o must_v be_v do_v sure_o at_o this_o time_n when_o a_o man_n be_v a_o castaway_n in_o himself_o he_o must_v even_o then_o believe_v be_v in_o hell_n as_o it_o be_v he_o must_v believe_v that_o god_n will_v bring_v he_o to_o heaven_n it_o be_v nothing_o for_o a_o man_n to_o believe_v in_o prosperity_n and_o peace_n but_o in_o time_n of_o desperation_n to_o believe_v that_o be_v a_o most_o worthy_a faith_n and_o indeed_o then_o
be_v the_o right_a time_n for_o a_o man_n to_o show_v his_o faith_n when_o there_o be_v in_o himself_o no_o cause_n of_o believe_v object_n but_o when_o a_o man_n be_v in_o this_o case_n he_o can_v believe_v answ._n indeed_o to_o believe_v then_o be_v a_o wonderful_a hard_a thing_n and_o a_o miracle_n of_o miracle_n but_o yet_o this_o be_v the_o property_n of_o true_a faith_n so_o to_o do_v and_o if_o there_o be_v but_o one_o dram_n of_o true_a faith_n in_o the_o heart_n that_o despair_n howsoever_o it_o may_v for_o a_o time_n lie_v hide_v as_o dead_a yet_o at_o the_o length_n it_o will_v make_v he_o to_o hope_n and_o wait_v for_o mercy_n and_o life_n at_o the_o hand_n of_o almighty_a god._n and_o therefore_o if_o it_o shall_v please_v god_n at_o any_o time_n to_o lay_v a_o torment_n upon_o our_o conscience_n so_o as_o we_o shall_v strive_v with_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n think_v that_o he_o have_v cast_v we_o away_o yet_o for_o all_o that_o than_o we_o must_v believe_v gods_n promise_n and_o set_v before_o we_o his_o mercy_n and_o therewith_o refresh_v us._n and_o if_o this_o faith_n be_v not_o the_o child_n of_o god_n many_o sundry_a time_n be_v in_o a_o most_o miserable_a case_n the_o lord_n therefore_o have_v most_o merciful_o provide_v to_o help_v he_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o faith_n when_o a_o man_n be_v pass_v all_o hope_n of_o life_n he_o must_v then_o believe_v and_o hope_v for_o life_n as_o the_o israelite_n do_v in_o the_o red_a sea_n for_o preservation_n and_o undoubted_o this_o be_v a_o comfortable_a sign_n of_o grace_n if_o a_o man_n in_o the_o horror_n of_o conscience_n can_v show_v forth_o the_o least_o spark_n of_o true_a faith_n four_o note_v the_o effect_n and_o issue_n of_o this_o faith_n they_o pass_v through_o the_o red_a sea_n we_o say_v usual_o that_o water_n &_o fire_n be_v unmerciful_a creature_n and_o therefore_o the_o natural_a man_n fear_v they_o both_o but_o the_o israelite_n faith_n make_v they_o not_o to_o fear_v the_o water_n but_o it_o make_v they_o bold_a even_o to_o pass_v through_o the_o sea_n the_o like_a we_o may_v see_v for_o fire_n in_o the_o 3._o child_n dan._n 3.16.23_o who_o be_v not_o afraid_a of_o the_o hot_a burn_a oven_n but_o be_v as_o bold_a in_o it_o as_o out_o of_o it_o ravenous_a &_o wild_a beast_n be_v terrible_a unto_o man_n but_o faith_n make_v a_o man_n not_o to_o fear_v they_o and_o therefore_o daniel_n fear_v not_o the_o lion_n though_o he_o be_v throw_v into_o their_o den_n to_o be_v devour_v dan._n 6.22_o great_a be_v the_o fruit_n and_o force_n of_o faith_n it_o take_v from_o a_o man_n the_o fear_n of_o those_o creature_n which_o by_o nature_n be_v most_o terrible_a and_o here_o we_o see_v a_o cause_n why_o the_o holy_a martyr_n of_o god_n die_v most_o cheerful_o a_o man_n will_v think_v it_o strange_a that_o one_o shall_v go_v into_o the_o fire_n rejoice_v as_o many_o of_o they_o do_v but_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o they_o have_v faith_n in_o their_o heart_n which_o take_v away_o the_o fear_n of_o the_o most_o fearful_a creature_n but_o if_o it_o be_v so_o may_z some_z say_v that_o the_o israelite_n by_o faith_n go_v through_o the_o red_a sea_n not_o fear_v the_o water_n why_o may_v not_o we_o that_o believe_v now_o do_v the_o same_o for_o we_o have_v the_o same_o faith_n that_o they_o have_v answ._n we_o have_v indeed_o the_o same_o faith_n and_o yet_o we_o can_v pass_v through_o water_n as_o they_o do_v for_o their_o faith_n rest_v on_o two_o promise_n first_o on_o this_o make_v to_o abraham_n i_o will_v be_v thy_o god_n and_o the_o god_n of_o thy_o seed_n second_o on_o a_o particular_a promise_n make_v to_o moses_n for_o when_o he_o command_v he_o to_o go_v through_o the_o red_a sea_n withal_o he_o make_v a_o promise_n to_o keep_v and_o preserve_v they_o and_o this_o they_o believe_v and_o so_o go_v through_o now_o howsoever_o we_o have_v justify_v faith_n have_v the_o same_o general_a promise_n yet_o we_o have_v not_o the_o like_a particular_a promise_n that_o if_o we_o pass_v through_o the_o red_a sea_n god_n will_v be_v with_o we_o and_o save_v us._n and_o therefore_o if_o any_o man_n shall_v adventure_v to_o do_v so_o let_v he_o look_v for_o nothing_o but_o death_n for_o it_o be_v not_o a_o action_n of_o faith_n but_o of_o presumption_n and_o therefore_o peter_n sink_v when_o he_o will_v needs_o walk_v unto_o christ_n upon_o the_o sea_n have_v no_o such_o hold_n upon_o god_n special_a promise_n as_o here_o they_o have_v and_o the_o egyptian_n follow_v presumptuous_o be_v drown_v wherefore_o let_v we_o here_o be_v warn_v not_o to_o attempt_v to_o do_v extraordinary_a work_n without_o god_n special_a warrant_n for_o a_o particular_a faith_n require_v a_o particular_a promise_n beside_o the_o general_a promise_n of_o god_n in_o christ._n further_o let_v we_o here_o observe_v a_o wonderful_a work_n of_o god_n mercy_n and_o power_n when_o these_o servant_n of_o god_n be_v bring_v into_o extremity_n of_o danger_n so_o as_o they_o be_v in_o a_o desperate_a case_n for_o their_o temporal_a life_n yet_o than_o the_o lord_n find_v a_o way_n of_o deliverance_n and_o indeed_o if_o a_o man_n consider_v aright_o of_o it_o he_o must_v needs_o acknowledge_v that_o these_o israelite_n be_v in_o a_o pitiful_a case_n for_o they_o have_v the_o red_a sea_n before_o they_o and_o mountain_n on_o each_o side_n and_o themselves_o hinder_v from_o flight_n by_o their_o bag_n and_o baggage_n and_o with_o their_o child_n and_o the_o huge_a host_n of_o pharaoh_n behind_o they_o so_o as_o to_o man_n reason_n there_o be_v nothing_o but_o present_a death_n to_o be_v look_v for_o yet_o the_o lord_n in_o mercy_n to_o save_v they_o make_v a_o way_n where_o there_o be_v no_o way_n and_o open_v they_o a_o gap_n to_o life_n when_o natural_a reason_n can_v lay_v before_o they_o nothing_o but_o violent_a death_n which_o show_v the_o wonderful_a mercy_n of_o god_n to_o his_o own_o people_n and_o servant_n and_o the_o like_a thing_n we_o may_v read_v of_o in_o david_n when_o he_o abide_v in_o the_o wilderness_n of_o maon_n for_o there_o saul_n follow_v he_o and_o he_o and_o his_o man_n compass_v david_n and_o his_o man_n round_o about_o 1._o sam._n 23.26_o 27._o now_o what_o hope_v of_o deliverance_n be_v there_o for_o david_n ans._n sure_o this_o only_a david_n be_v the_o servant_n of_o god_n &_o the_o lord_n preserve_v he_o that_o he_o may_v rule_v his_o people_n after_o saul_n death_n and_o therefore_o he_o escape_v though_o wonderful_o for_o a_o messenger_n come_v to_o saul_n and_o bid_v he_o haste_n for_o the_o philistines_n invade_v the_o land_n and_o so_o saul_n return_v from_o pursue_v david_n and_o go_v against_o the_o philistines_n hence_o we_o learn_v this_o general_a rule_n that_o in_o the_o extremity_n of_o all_o danger_n god_n have_v mean_n to_o preserve_v and_o save_v his_o own_o child_n and_o people_n which_o must_v teach_v we_o to_o commend_v our_o case_n to_o god_n and_o to_o rest_v on_o he_o in_o all_o danger_n for_o when_o our_o case_n be_v desperate_a in_o our_o sight_n then_o be_v we_o fit_a for_o god_n help_v let_v we_o therefore_o in_o such_o case_n learn_v to_o practise_v our_o faith_n and_o then_o especial_o to_o cast_v ourselves_o upon_o god._n this_o jehosaphat_n do_v most_o notable_o for_o be_v assault_v with_o the_o huge_a army_n of_o the_o moabite_n ammonite_n etc._n etc._n he_o pray_v unto_o the_o lord_n most_o fervent_o say_v 2._o chron._n 20.12_o lord_n there_o be_v no_o strength_n in_o we_o we_o know_v not_o what_o to_o do_v but_o our_o eye_n be_v towards_o thou_o and_o thus_o do_v be_v preserve_v for_o god_n will_v in_o no_o extremity_n forsake_v they_o that_o trust_v in_o he_o the_o red_a sea_n in_o many_o place_n of_o the_o old_a testament_n it_o be_v call_v the_o sea_n of_o rush_n psal._n 106.7_o 9_o or_o the_o sea_n of_o sedge_n jer._n 49.21_o it_o be_v a_o corner_n of_o the_o arabian_a sea_n that_o part_v egypt_n and_o arabia_n those_o which_o have_v see_v it_o in_o travel_n say_v it_o have_v no_o other_o colour_n than_o all_o other_o sea_n have_v why_o then_o be_v it_o call_v the_o red_a sea_n answ._n to_o omit_v many_o suppose_a cause_n hereof_o there_o be_v two_o especial_o for_o which_o it_o be_v so_o call_v 1_o because_o of_o the_o red_a sand_n for_o both_o the_o bottom_n of_o the_o sea_n and_o the_o shore_n be_v full_a of_o red_a sand_n than_o ordinary_o be_v elsewhere_o 2_o some_o think_v it_o be_v call_v the_o red_a sea_n by_o reason_n of_o the_o sedge_n and_o bul-rush_n which_o grow_v much_o at_o the_o sea_n side_n and_o be_v of_o a_o red_a colour_n which_o by_o reflection_n may_v
hitherto_o entreat_v now_o here_o and_o sâ—_n forward_o to_o the_o end_n of_o this_o chapter_n be_v set_v down_o a_o three_o order_n of_o example_n of_o faith_n namely_o of_o such_o as_o live_v from_o the_o time_n of_o the_o give_v of_o the_o law_n to_o the_o time_n of_o the_o reign_n of_o the_o maccabee_n this_o 30._o verse_n contain_v the_o first_o example_n of_o this_o rank_n namely_o the_o example_n of_o josuahs_n faith_n &_o of_o those_o that_o go_v with_o he_o into_o canaan_n and_o their_o faith_n be_v commend_v unto_o we_o by_o a_o notable_a fact_n of_o they_o the_o cause_v to_o fall_v the_o wall_n of_o jericho_n the_o history_n whereof_o we_o may_v read_v at_o large_a josuah_n 6._o the_o sum_n of_o it_o be_v this_o whereas_o the_o israelite_n come_v unto_o canaan_n and_o can_v not_o enter_v into_o the_o land_n by_o reason_n of_o the_o strength_n of_o jericho_n by_o which_o they_o must_v needs_o pass_v nor_o can_v win_v it_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o huge_a wall_n of_o jericho_n the_o lord_n promise_v to_o deliver_v jericho_n into_o their_o hand_n only_o the_o people_n must_v do_v this_o they_o must_v compasse-about_a the_o wall_n seven_o day_n &_o carry_v the_o ark_n of_o the_o lord_n with_o they_o sound_v with_o ram_n horn_n and_o shout_n and_o so_o the_o wall_n shall_v fall_v down_o now_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v this_o promise_n unto_o they_o the_o israelite_n and_o special_o josuah_n obey_v his_o commandment_n and_o believe_v his_o promise_n and_o thus_o do_v by_o faith_n the_o wall_n of_o jericho_n fall_v down_o after_o they_o be_v compassed-about_a seven_o doye_n indeed_o the_o power_n of_o god_n be_v the_o principal_a cause_n of_o this_o ruin_n of_o the_o wall_n but_o yet_o because_o upon_o their_o believe_v god_n show_v this_o power_n therefore_o be_v the_o downfall_n of_o they_o ascribe_v to_o their_o faith_n here_o be_v many_o notable_a point_n to_o be_v learn_v 1._o whereas_o the_o text_n say_v by_o faith_n the_o wall_n of_o jericho_n fall_v down_o we_o may_v observe_v the_o wonderful_a power_n of_o true_a faith_n josuah_n and_o the_o israelite_n believe_v god_n promise_n that_o he_o will_v overturn_v the_o wall_n of_o jericho_n and_o as_o they_o believe_v so_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v so_o our_o saviour_n christ_n say_v matthew_n 17.20_o if_o a_o man_n have_v but_o as_o much_o faith_n as_o a_o grain_n of_o mustardseed_n he_o shall_v say_v unto_o the_o mountain_n remove_v hence_o and_o it_o shall_v remove_v and_o nothing_o shall_v be_v unpossible_a unto_o he_o signify_v that_o by_o the_o power_n of_o true_a faith_n such_o thing_n as_o be_v impossible_a to_o man_n reason_n shall_v be_v bring_v to_o pass_v if_o god_n have_v promise_v they_o as_o we_o see_v in_o this_o place_n the_o mighty_a wall_n of_o jericho_n fall_v down_o by_o faith_n which_o to_o man_n reason_n be_v impossible_a so_o the_o lord_n promise_v to_o abraham_n that_o he_o shall_v be_v the_o father_n of_o many_o nation_n yea_o 18.18_o that_o all_o the_o nation_n of_o the_o earth_n shall_v be_v bless_v in_o he_o this_o be_v strange_a but_o abraham_n believe_v it_o and_o as_o he_o believe_v so_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v for_o many_o nation_n descend_v from_o he_o and_o after_o the_o time_n of_o christ_n ascension_n when_o all_o the_o nation_n of_o the_o world_n be_v call_v to_o the_o light_n of_o the_o gospel_n they_o be_v bless_v in_o christ_n the_o promise_a seed_n of_o abraham_n and_o therefore_o be_v he_o call_v the_o father_n of_o the_o faithful_a in_o all_o nation_n and_o to_o come_v unto_o ourselves_o to_o miserable_a man_n it_o may_v seem_v a_o strange_a thing_n that_o the_o power_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o the_o strength_n of_o the_o flesh_n shall_v be_v overcome_v in_o we_o yet_o let_v a_o man_n believe_v this_o promise_n of_o god_n god_n so_o love_v the_o world_n that_o he_o give_v his_o only_a beget_v son_n that_o who_o so_o believe_v in_o he_o shall_v not_o perish_v but_o have_v everlasting_a life_n john_n 3.16_o i_o say_v let_v he_o believe_v this_o effectual_o and_o he_o shall_v find_v by_o faith_n the_o kingdom_n of_o sin_n &_o satan_n in_o his_o heart_n and_o conscience_n weaken_v every_o day_n more_o and_o more_o and_o therefore_o s._n john_n say_v not_o without_o cause_n this_o be_v the_o victory_n that_o overcom_v the_o world_n even_o our_o faith_n 1._o john_n 5.4_o 2._o here_o observe_v that_o among_o the_o cause_n of_o the_o change_n &_o overthrow_v of_o town_n city_n &_o kingdom_n this_o be_v one_o namely_o faith_n in_o god_n promise_n many_o man_n have_v write_v of_o the_o change_n of_o kingdom_n &_o do_v give_v diverse_a reason_n thereof_o but_o most_o of_o they_o omit_v the_o principal_a and_o that_o be_v faith_n by_o virtue_n whereof_o many_o time_n kingdom_n and_o town_n be_v bring_v to_o ruin_n and_o overthrow_n god_n promise_v to_o abraham_n &_o to_o his_o seed_n that_o he_o will_v give_v they_o the_o land_n of_o canaan_n for_o their_o inheritance_n now_o they_o believe_v this_o promise_n &_o here_o we_o see_v it_o come_v to_o pass_v as_o they_o believe_v jericho_n by_o faith_n be_v overturn_v &_o the_o rest_n of_o their_o city_n &_o the_o people_n of_o canaan_n dispossess_v so_o that_o we_o see_v faith_n in_o god_n promise_n be_v a_o mean_n to_o god_n people_n to_o overturn_v city_n &_o kingdom_n that_o be_v enemy_n to_o christ_n and_o to_o his_o gospel_n god_n have_v make_v a_o promise_n unto_o his_o church_n that_o the_o whore_n of_o babylon_n revel_v 18.2_o that_o be_v the_o kingdom_n of_o antichrist_n shall_v flourish_v for_o a_o while_n but_o after_o it_o shall_v be_v destroy_v yea_o such_o a_o ruin_n shall_v come_v unto_o it_o that_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n and_o all_o great_a man_n and_o merchant_n shall_v bewail_v the_o destruction_n thereof_o now_o this_o promise_n be_v receive_v by_o faith_n and_o believe_v of_o god_n church_n shall_v undoubted_o come_v to_o pass_v it_o be_v in_o some_o part_n verify_v already_o for_o we_o see_v some_o kingdom_n and_o people_n have_v renounce_v the_o curse_a doctrine_n and_o tyranny_n of_o rome_n and_o many_o christian_a prince_n have_v already_o shake_v off_o the_o pope_n yoke_n yea_o and_o this_o promise_n shall_v come_v to_o pass_v daily_o more_o and_o more_o let_v all_o the_o king_n of_o that_o sort_n do_v what_o they_o can_v and_o let_v the_o people_n set_v themselves_o never_o so_o much_o against_o god_n church_n yet_o babylon_n shall_v down_o for_o god_n have_v promise_v so_o to_o his_o church_n and_o his_o church_n believe_v the_o same_o and_o therefore_o by_o their_o faith_n it_o shall_v be_v bring_v to_o pass_v in_o despite_n of_o the_o devil_n three_o here_o we_o learn_v that_o when_o any_o city_n town_n or_o kingdom_n be_v to_o make_v war_n either_o in_o defence_n of_o themselves_o or_o in_o lawful_a assault_n upon_o their_o enemy_n a_o special_a mean_n for_o good_a success_n herein_o be_v true_a faith_n christian_n policy_n be_v a_o commendable_a thing_n in_o this_o case_n but_o if_o policy_n be_v sever_v from_o faith_n it_o be_v nothing_o faith_n in_o god_n promise_n of_o protection_n and_o assistance_n do_v far_o surpass_v all_o worldly_a wisdom_n and_o therefore_o good_a king_n jehosaphat_n when_o he_o be_v to_o fight_v against_o the_o huge_a army_n of_o the_o moabite_n and_o ammonite_n give_v this_o counsel_n to_o his_o people_n 2_o chron._n 20.20_o put_v your_o trust_n in_o the_o lord_n your_o god_n and_o you_o shall_v be_v assure_v believe_v his_o prophet_n and_o you_o shall_v prosper_v give_v a_o most_o notable_a instruction_n and_o show_v that_o the_o best_a help_n for_o our_o defence_n be_v faith_n in_o god_n whereby_o we_o rest_v upon_o his_o word_n and_o promise_n that_o he_o will_v help_v we_o yet_o this_o take_v not_o away_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n but_o it_o give_v the_o blessing_n and_o efficacy_n unto_o they_o 6.16_o i'faith_o we_o know_v be_v call_v a_o shield_n among_o the_o spiritual_a armour_n of_o god_n whereby_o a_o man_n 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forgive_v isaiah_n 55.7_o yea_o with_o the_o lord_n be_v plentiful_a redemption_n psal._n 130.7_o this_o appear_v by_o vouchsafe_v mercy_n to_o rahab_n a_o notable_a harlot_n and_o as_o he_o deal_v with_o rahab_n here_o so_o have_v he_o show_v like_o mercy_n to_o other_o notorious_a sinner_n king_n manasses_n have_v sell_v himself_o to_o idolatry_n and_o witchcraft_n and_o have_v shed_v innocent_a blood_n exceed_v much_o and_o cause_v judah_n to_o sin_n 2._o king_n 21_o 6_o 16_o for_o which_o he_o be_v lead_v captive_a yet_o when_o he_o humble_v himself_o and_o pray_v god_n be_v entreat_v of_o he_o 2._o chron._n 33.13_o and_o paul_n say_v of_o himself_o when_o he_o be_v a_o blasphemer_n and_o a_o persecuter_n and_o a_o oppresser_n he_o be_v receive_v to_o mercy_n though_o he_o be_v the_o head_n of_o all_o sinner_n that_o christ_n might_n first_o show_v on_o he_o all_o long_a suffering_n unto_o the_o example_n of_o they_o which_o shall_v in_o time_n to_o come_v believe_v in_o he_o unto_o everlasting_a life_n 1._o tim._n 1_o 13_o 16._o the_o consideration_n of_o this_o exceed_a mercy_n of_o god_n towards_o sinner_n be_v of_o great_a use_n first_o it_o arm_v a_o poor_a soul_n against_o despair_n whereinto_o the_o devil_n will_v draw_v it_o upon_o the_o view_n of_o the_o multitude_n and_o greatness_n of_o his_o sin_n for_o many_o reason_n thus_o my_o sin_n be_v so_o heinous_a so_o many_o and_o so_o vile_a that_o i_o dare_v not_o come_v to_o god_n neither_o can_v i_o be_v persuade_v of_o the_o pardon_n of_o they_o but_o behold_v here_o the_o endless_a mercy_n of_o god_n in_o forgive_a sin_n to_o they_o that_o repent_v though_o they_o be_v like_o crimson_a and_o scarlet_a and_o never_o so_o many_o this_o must_v comfort_v the_o wound_a soul_n and_o encourage_v all_o touch_v heart_n to_o repent_v and_o to_o sue_v to_o the_o lord_n for_o mercy_n and_o pardon_n second_o it_o must_v move_v every_o one_o of_o we_o now_o to_o begin_v to_o repent_v if_o we_o have_v not_o repent_v heretofore_o and_o if_o we_o have_v begin_v to_o do_v it_o more_o earnest_o for_o god_n be_v most_o merciful_a and_o with_o he_o be_v plentiful_a redemption_n yet_o we_o must_v beware_v that_o we_o take_v not_o occasion_n hereby_o to_o live_v in_o sin_n because_o god_n be_v merciful_a for_o this_o be_v to_o turn_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n into_o wantonness_n which_o saint_n jude_n make_v a_o brand_n of_o the_o ungodly_a 4._o and_o a_o sign_n of_o the_o reprobate_n who_o as_o the_o apostle_n there_o say_v be_v appoint_v to_o condemnation_n yea_o this_o be_v a_o despise_n of_o the_o bountifulness_n of_o god_n which_o shall_v lead_v they_o to_o repentance_n and_o hereby_o they_o heap_v up_o unto_o themselves_o wrath_n against_o the_o day_n of_o wrath_n roman_n chapter_n 2_o verses_z 4_o 5._o let_v we_o therefore_o remember_v this_o counsel_n of_o paul_n shall_v we_o sin_v that_o grace_n may_v abound_v god_n forbid_v we_o must_v all_o but_o especial_o young_a man_n take_v heed_n of_o this_o course_n for_o if_o we_o bless_v ourselves_o in_o our_o heart_n and_o say_v we_o shall_v have_v peace_n though_o we_o live_v in_o sin_n god_n will_v not_o be_v merciful_a unto_o we_o but_o his_o wrath_n shall_v smoke_v against_o us._n 20._o further_o note_v that_o howsoever_o she_o be_v a_o sinner_n and_o a_o most_o infamous_a harlot_n yet_o when_o she_o repent_v god_n do_v honour_n and_o grace_v she_o with_o the_o title_n of_o a_o believer_n and_o that_o among_o those_o most_o renown_a believer_n that_o ever_o live_v before_o christ_n even_o to_o be_v one_o of_o that_o cloud_n of_o witness_n 1._o in_o who_o faith_n be_v commend_v to_o the_o church_n for_o ever_o hence_o also_o it_o be_v 1.5_o that_o saint_n matthew_n reckon_v she_o in_o the_o genealogy_n of_o christ_n to_o be_v one_o of_o his_o predecessor_n when_o as_o amasia_n achas_n and_o such_o like_a who_o for_o aught_o we_o know_v do_v never_o repent_v be_v not_o once_o name_v herein_o we_o may_v see_v god_n wonderful_a mercy_n in_o honour_v sinner_n if_o they_o do_v repent_v the_o consideration_n whereof_o must_v move_v we_o not_o only_o to_o learn_v the_o doctrine_n of_o repentance_n and_o to_o have_v it_o in_o our_o mouth_n but_o to_o labour_v that_o it_o may_v be_v settle_v in_o our_o heart_n that_o we_o may_v show_v forth_o the_o power_n thereof_o in_o our_o life_n all_o of_o we_o desire_v honour_n and_o reputation_n among_o mâ—n_z well_o if_o we_o will_v be_v honour_v indeed_o we_o must_v repent_v and_o then_o god_n himself_o will_v honour_v we_o neither_o have_v our_o sin_n make_v we_o so_o infamous_a as_o by_o our_o repentance_n god_n shall_v make_v we_o honourable_a further_o concern_v the_o party_n how_o can_v rahab_n come_v by_o faith_n see_v she_o live_v out_o of_o the_o church_n where_o the_o word_n be_v never_o preach_v unto_o she_o answer_n if_o we_o read_v the_o story_n we_o shall_v find_v that_o she_o come_v to_o believe_v by_o a_o report_n of_o god_n marvellous_a act_n 2.20_o for_o when_o the_o lord_n deliver_v the_o israelite_n out_o of_o egypt_n through_o the_o red_a sea_n and_o drown_v pharaoh_n therein_o with_o all_o his_o â—oast_n as_o they_o go_v further_o he_o deliver_v the_o king_n of_o the_o nation_n into_o their_o hand_n as_o og_n the_o king_n of_o baashan_n with_o the_o king_n of_o the_o amorites_n and_o amalekite_n now_o the_o report_n hereof_o come_v to_o the_o people_n of_o jericho_n whereupon_o they_o be_v strike_v with_o a_o wonderful_a great_a fear_n and_o howsoever_o the_o man_n of_o jericho_n make_v no_o other_o use_n of_o it_o but_o to_o arm_v and_o prepare_v themselves_o to_o resist_v and_o beat_v back_o the_o israelite_n yet_o this_o report_n wrought_v further_o with_o rahab_n and_o
rahabs_n weak_a faith_n be_v thus_o commend_v here_o be_v comfort_n for_o all_o those_o that_o be_v willing_a to_o learn_v god_n word_n and_o to_o obey_v the_o same_o many_o be_v willing_a to_o learn_v but_o they_o be_v so_o wonderful_o trouble_v with_o dulness_n and_o want_n of_o memory_n that_o they_o can_v learn_v and_o hereupon_o they_o grow_v to_o doubt_v much_o of_o their_o estate_n towards_o god_n but_o these_o man_n must_v comfort_v themselves_o for_o though_o they_o have_v but_o little_a knowledge_n yet_o if_o they_o have_v care_n to_o increase_v in_o knowledge_n &_o make_v conscience_n of_o obedience_n to_o so_o much_o as_o they_o know_v god_n will_v account_v of_o they_o as_o of_o true_a believer_n &_o in_o truth_n such_o be_v to_o be_v commend_v above_o those_o which_o have_v much_o knowledge_n &_o so_o seem_v to_o have_v much_o faith_n and_o yet_o show_v forth_o no_o obedience_n answerable_a to_o their_o knowledge_n for_o they_o have_v a_o show_n of_o godliness_n but_o want_v the_o power_n of_o it_o three_o this_o confute_v our_o ignorant_a boaster_n who_o say_v they_o have_v as_o much_o knowledge_n as_o any_o man_n need_v to_o have_v for_o they_o know_v that_o a_o man_n must_v love_v god_n above_o all_o &_o that_o christ_n jesus_n be_v the_o saviour_n of_o the_o world_n &_o this_o say_v they_o be_v enough_o and_o hereupon_o they_o take_v up_o their_o rest_n for_o matter_n of_o religion_n &_o seek_v to_o go_v no_o further_o but_o these_o man_n know_v nothing_o at_o all_o for_o if_o they_o will_v add_v to_o this_o which_o they_o know_v though_o it_o be_v but_o little_a a_o care_n to_o increase_v in_o knowledge_n &_o with_o their_o knowledge_n join_v obedience_n they_o it_o be_v something_o but_o while_o they_o have_v no_o care_n neither_o to_o get_v more_o knowledge_n nor_o to_o show_v forth_o obedience_n to_o that_o they_o know_v they_o do_v hereby_o show_v plain_o that_o there_o be_v no_o drop_n of_o save_a knowledge_n nor_o true_a faith_n in_o their_o heart_n four_o see_v god_n commend_v the_o seed_n of_o true_a faith_n for_o true_a faith_n indeed_o this_o must_v encourage_v all_o man_n to_o use_v all_o good_a mean_n to_o come_v by_o true_a faith_n and_o repentance_n for_o though_o as_o yet_o thou_o have_v but_o little_a knowledge_n and_o therefore_o but_o little_a faith_n and_o repentance_n yet_o if_o thou_o join_v hereto_o a_o endeavour_n to_o get_v more_o knowledge_n and_o have_v also_o care_n to_o practice_n that_o which_o thou_o know_v then_o will_v the_o lord_n increase_v thy_o knowledge_n and_o thy_o small_a faith_n till_o thou_o have_v sufficient_a and_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n accept_v of_o thou_o as_o a_o true_a believer_n and_o thus_o much_o for_o the_o measure_n of_o rahabs_n faith_n the_o second_o point_n to_o be_v consider_v be_v the_o reward_n which_o rahab_n receive_v at_o the_o hand_n of_o joshua_n and_o the_o israelite_n for_o her_o faith_n she_o perish_v not_o with_o they_o that_o obey_v not_o that_o be_v she_o with_o her_o family_n be_v preserve_v alive_a when_o as_o josuah_n destroy_v all_o that_o live_v in_o jericho_n young_a and_o old_a man_n woman_n and_o child_n but_o some_o will_v say_v the_o israelite_n be_v the_o people_n of_o god_n a_o religious_a people_n now_o it_o may_v seem_v to_o be_v a_o cruel_a part_n to_o destroy_v all_o for_o what_o have_v the_o young_a infant_n do_v answer_n in_o man_n reason_n it_o may_v seem_v so_o indeed_o yet_o it_o can_v not_o be_v a_o cruel_a part_n because_o they_o do_v no_o more_o than_o that_o which_o god_n command_v they_o for_o it_o be_v god_n ordinance_n that_o the_o canaanite_n shall_v be_v root_v out_o and_o that_o the_o israelite_n shall_v show_v no_o compassion_n on_o they_o deut._n 7.3_o beside_o even_o in_o reason_n the_o israelite_n have_v some_o cause_n to_o deal_v thus_o for_o god_n give_v this_o charge_n to_o the_o israelite_n that_o when_o they_o come_v to_o any_o city_n or_o people_n first_o they_o must_v offer_v peace_n and_o if_o they_o answer_v peaceable_o than_o they_o must_v be_v save_v and_o become_v their_o tributary_n and_o servant_n deuteronomie_n 20.10_o but_o if_o they_o will_v not_o make_v peace_n than_o they_o must_v put_v they_o to_o the_o edge_n of_o the_o sword_n verse_n 17_o man_n woman_n and_o child_n be_v inhabitant_n of_o canaan_n or_o near_o adjoin_v and_o thus_o no_o doubt_n joshua_n deal_v when_o he_o come_v to_o jericho_n first_o he_o offer_v peace_n if_o they_o will_v become_v their_o tributary_n but_o they_o trust_v to_o their_o strong_a wall_n and_o will_v not_o yield_v to_o become_v their_o servant_n for_o which_o cause_n he_o put_v they_o all_o to_o the_o edge_n of_o the_o sword_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v no_o cruelty_n because_o it_o be_v god_n commandment_n for_o god_n will_v be_v the_o rule_n of_o justice_n but_o be_v not_o this_o partial_a deal_n to_o spare_v rahab_n with_o her_o family_n who_o be_v inhabitant_n of_o jericho_n as_o well_o as_o the_o rest_n answer_n there_o be_v two_o cause_n why_o she_o shall_v escape_v first_o because_o she_o yield_v herself_o to_o the_o people_n of_o israel_n and_o join_v herself_o unto_o they_o and_o be_v content_a to_o become_v one_o of_o their_o religion_n and_o therefore_o the_o commandment_n of_o put_v all_o to_o death_n do_v not_o take_v hold_n of_o she_o second_o rahab_n obtain_v this_o of_o the_o spy_n and_o bind_v they_o to_o it_o by_o a_o oath_n that_o when_o they_o come_v to_o destroy_v jericho_n they_o shall_v spare_v she_o and_o her_o family_n and_o therefore_o also_o do_v she_o escape_v in_o this_o preservation_n of_o rahab_n we_o may_v learn_v sundry_a point_n first_o whereas_o she_o be_v save_v alive_a because_o of_o the_o oath_n of_o the_o spy_n we_o see_v what_o special_a care_n every_o one_o ought_v to_o have_v for_o the_o do_v of_o those_o lawful_a thing_n whatsoever_o they_o be_v whereto_o he_o bind_v himself_o by_o a_o oath_n joshua_n know_v this_o bond_n of_o the_o spy_n to_o rahab_n as_o we_o may_v read_v give_v special_a charge_n for_o her_o preservation_n hence_o david_n say_v 6.22_o if_o a_o man_n bind_v himself_o with_o a_o oath_n he_o must_v keep_v it_o though_o it_o be_v to_o his_o own_o hindrance_n psal._n 15.4_o every_o single_a promise_n bind_v a_o man_n conscience_n if_o it_o be_v lawful_a but_o when_o a_o oath_n be_v adjoin_v then_o there_o be_v a_o double_a bond_n and_o therefore_o the_o author_n to_o the_o hebrew_n sai_z that_o god_n to_o make_v know_v the_o stableness_n of_o his_o counsel_n promise_v 6.17.18_o bind_v himself_o with_o a_o oath_n that_o by_o two_o immutable_a thing_n to_o wit_n god_n promise_n and_o oath_n we_o may_v have_v strong_a consolation_n so_o that_o a_o oath_n bind_v a_o man_n double_a to_o the_o perform_n of_o his_o promise_n and_o that_o this_o conscience_n be_v to_o be_v make_v of_o a_o lawful_a oath_n appear_v thus_o if_o a_o man_n make_v a_o lawful_a oath_n and_o yet_o be_v induce_v to_o do_v it_o by_o fraud_n he_o must_v perform_v it_o and_o not_o fail_v as_o appear_v by_o josuahs_n fact_n to_o the_o gibeonite_n josuah_n 9.19_o for_o when_o they_o come_v to_o the_o jew_n crafty_o as_o though_o they_o have_v be_v man_n of_o a_o far_a country_n and_o have_v bring_v they_o to_o swear_v that_o they_o will_v not_o hurt_v they_o though_o the_o host_n of_o israel_n murmur_v at_o it_o when_o they_o come_v to_o their_o city_n and_o though_o they_o may_v have_v reason_v thus_o that_o they_o get_v it_o of_o they_o by_o fraud_n and_o therefore_o they_o will_v not_o keep_v it_o yet_o this_o be_v the_o answer_n of_o josuah_n and_o the_o prince_n unto_o the_o people_n that_o they_o have_v swear_v unto_o they_o by_o the_o lord_n god_n of_o israel_n and_o therefore_o they_o may_v not_o touch_v they_o and_o when_o king_n saul_n in_o zeal_n to_o israel_n have_v break_v this_o oath_n of_o josuah_n and_o the_o prince_n by_o destroy_v the_o gibeonite_n 2._o sam._n 21._o there_o come_v a_o plague_n upon_o the_o land_n for_o three_o year_n space_n and_o be_v not_o stay_v till_o seven_o of_o saul_n son_n be_v hang_v for_o saul_n fact_n so_o that_o the_o breach_n of_o a_o oath_n be_v a_o most_o dangerous_a thing_n and_o therefore_o he_o that_o have_v bind_v himself_o thereby_o must_v have_v great_a care_n to_o keep_v it_o yet_o here_o some_o case_n may_v be_v propound_v worthy_a our_o consideration_n for_o first_o what_o if_o a_o man_n have_v take_v a_o oath_n to_o do_v a_o unlawful_a thing_n must_v he_o then_o keep_v his_o oath_n ans._n if_o his_o conscience_n tell_v he_o out_o of_o god_n word_n that_o the_o thing_n be_v not_o lawful_a than_o he_o must_v not_o keep_v it_o for_o a_o oath_n may_v not_o be_v the_o bond_n of_o iniquity_n the_o
this_o beside_o the_o instance_n we_o have_v in_o hand_n appear_v plain_o in_o christ_n apostle_n they_o be_v call_v by_o christ_n to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n to_o all_o the_o world_n and_o to_o plant_v his_o church_n universal_o and_o thereupon_o howsoever_o they_o be_v simple_a man_n before_o be_v furnish_v with_o extraordinary_a gift_n of_o wisdom_n zeal_n &_o knowledge_n and_o with_o this_o excellent_a grace_n of_o save_v faith_n which_o do_v sanctify_v their_o other_o gift_n for_o howsoever_o judas_n be_v number_v among_o they_o have_v be_v a_o disciple_n yet_o he_o never_o come_v to_o the_o execution_n of_o the_o apostleship_n but_o go_v astray_o from_o that_o ministration_n act_v 1.25_o and_o in_o these_o late_a day_n when_o god_n restore_v his_o gospel_n to_o light_v out_o of_o the_o dark_a mist_n of_o popery_n he_o raise_v up_o extraordinary_a man_n who_o he_o endue_v with_o wisdom_n zeal_n and_o judgement_n which_o gift_n also_o he_o seal_v up_o in_o they_o by_o a_o lively_a faith_n which_o they_o testify_v by_o their_o piety_n and_o godliness_n in_o life_n &_o conversation_n and_o this_o course_n he_o observe_v usual_o in_o all_o those_o who_o he_o raise_v up_o extraordinary_o for_o the_o good_a of_o his_o church_n this_o we_o must_v observe_v to_o acquaint_v we_o with_o a_o special_a difference_n between_o those_o who_o god_n raise_v up_o extraordinary_o for_o special_a good_a and_o all_o arch_a heretic_n and_o traitor_n that_o set_v up_o themselves_o unsent_a of_o god_n for_o many_o such_o wretch_n have_v excel_v in_o wisdom_n in_o worldly_a policy_n in_o zeal_n and_o authority_n whereupon_o they_o have_v pretend_v and_o persuade_v many_o that_o they_o be_v call_v of_o god_n but_o hereby_o especial_o they_o be_v to_o be_v discover_v that_o they_o be_v void_a of_o this_o rare_a gift_n of_o true_a save_a faith_n for_o look_v at_o their_o life_n and_o ordinary_o for_o impiety_n they_o have_v be_v and_o be_v arch-divel_n so_o that_o though_o they_o want_v not_o authority_n or_o outward_a zeal_n and_o wisdom_n yet_o they_o want_v faith_n which_o shall_v purify_v their_o heart_n or_o else_o they_o will_v never_o have_v live_v in_o such_o notorious_a sin_n as_o they_o be_v discover_v to_o do_v and_o this_o be_v the_o trial_n which_o our_o saviour_n christ_n direct_v we_o unto_o saying_n you_o shall_v know_v they_o by_o their_o fruit_n math._n 7.16_o let_v they_o therefore_o pretend_v what_o knowledge_n what_o zeal_n or_o authority_n soever_o they_o will_v if_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n appear_v not_o in_o their_o life_n by_o obedience_n they_o be_v not_o call_v of_o god_n for_o the_o special_a good_a of_o his_o church_n thus_o much_o of_o these_o man_n in_o general_a now_o we_o come_v to_o entreat_v of_o they_o several_o as_o they_o be_v propound_v in_o the_o text._n the_o first_o person_n here_o commend_v unto_o we_o be_v gedeon_n the_o history_n of_o who_o act_n be_v lay_v down_o at_o large_a judge_n chap._n 6._o in_o his_o example_n note_v one_o point_n especial_o to_o acquaint_v we_o with_o the_o manner_n which_o god_n use_v in_o beget_v and_o increase_a true_a faith_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o his_o child_n if_o we_o read_v the_o story_n we_o shall_v see_v that_o the_o lord_n in_o the_o likeness_n of_o a_o angel_n call_v gedeon_n once_o twice_o 6.12.14.16_o yea_o thrice_o to_o be_v a_o judge_n to_o his_o people_n but_o gedeon_n great_o doubt_v of_o his_o call_n &_o therefore_o desire_v a_o sign_n of_o the_o lord_n which_o god_n give_v he_o for_o the_o sacrifice_n which_o he_o offer_v be_v burn_v up_o with_o fire_n from_o heaven_n yet_o still_o he_o doubt_v and_o be_v in_o a_o great_a fear_n than_o before_o even_o of_o death_n itself_o but_o be_v confirm_v by_o the_o angel_n and_o set_v a-work_o he_o break_v down_o the_o altar_n of_o baal_n and_o build_v one_o to_o the_o true_a god_n and_o thereon_o offer_v sacrifice_n as_o god_n command_v though_o with_o some_o fear_n and_o when_o the_o midianite_n and_o amalekite_n come_v arm_v against_o israel_n he_o be_v stir_v up_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n for_o their_o defence_n but_o yet_o still_o he_o doubt_v of_o his_o call_n and_o therefore_o again_o ask_v a_o sign_n at_o god_n hand_n and_o have_v it_o and_o after_o that_o ask_v another_o which_o god_n also_o grant_v now_o have_v all_o these_o one_o in_o the_o neck_n of_o another_o at_o length_n he_o know_v his_o call_n and_o so_o go_v in_o faith_n and_o defend_v israel_n so_o that_o he_o get_v the_o assurance_n of_o his_o call_n by_o sundry_a particular_a sign_n and_o confirmation_n of_o his_o faith_n and_o though_o he_o doubt_v great_o at_o the_o first_o yet_o after_o he_o believe_v not_o only_o that_o he_o shall_v be_v a_o judge_n and_o deliverer_n of_o god_n people_n out_o of_o the_o hand_n of_o their_o enemy_n but_o this_o principal_o that_o god_n be_v his_o god_n and_o will_v give_v unto_o he_o everlasting_a life_n here_o than_o we_o have_v a_o notable_a precedent_n of_o the_o manner_n of_o god_n work_v true_a and_o sound_a faith_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o his_o child_n they_o receive_v not_o this_o grace_n at_o once_o but_o by_o degree_n god_n work_v it_o in_o they_o by_o little_a and_o little_a when_o a_o man_n be_v first_o call_v of_o god_n he_o have_v much_o doubt_v and_o fear_n but_o then_o god_n send_v sundry_a help_n to_o weaken_v this_o fear_n and_o doubt_v and_o as_o they_o decrease_v so_o be_v faith_n increase_v no_o man_n believe_v sound_o at_o the_o first_o but_o weak_o even_o as_o he_o grow_v in_o year_n so_o he_o must_v grow_v in_o faith_n and_o the_o increase_n of_o our_o faith_n be_v by_o continuance_n in_o the_o mean_n and_o by_o experience_n of_o god_n love_n and_o favour_n and_o indeed_o the_o more_o faith_n increase_v the_o more_o we_o use_v the_o mean_n to_o grow_v therein_o and_o the_o more_o we_o delight_v in_o the_o mean_n and_o at_o length_n after_o long_a experience_n of_o god_n mercy_n we_o shall_v have_v wrought_v in_o our_o heart_n this_o gift_n of_o true_a &_o lively_a faith_n which_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o prevail_v against_o all_o fear_n and_o doubt_v and_o thus_o much_o for_o the_o person_n of_o gedeon_n the_o second_o person_n commend_v unto_o we_o be_v barac_n of_o who_o we_o may_v read_v judge_n 4._o his_o story_n be_v large_a and_o plain_a enough_o and_o therefore_o we_o will_v not_o stand_v upon_o it_o the_o three_o person_n be_v samson_n of_o who_o we_o may_v also_o read_v judge_n 13.14_o etc._n etc._n now_o touch_v samson_n this_o question_n may_v well_o be_v ask_v how_o he_o can_v be_v just_o commend_v for_o his_o faith_n see_v it_o may_v seem_v he_o kill_v himself_o answer_n samson_n do_v not_o kill_v himself_o for_o he_o be_v call_v extraordinary_o to_o be_v a_o judge_n over_o israel_n for_o their_o defence_n and_o delivery_n out_o of_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o philistimes_fw-la now_o when_o the_o prince_n of_o the_o philistimes_fw-la be_v gather_v together_o be_v his_o enemy_n and_o the_o enemy_n of_o god_n and_o his_o people_n he_o cast_v the_o house_n down_o upon_o their_o head_n to_o kill_v they_o therein_o because_o be_v blind_a he_o can_v not_o pursue_v they_o in_o battle_n and_o therefore_o have_v they_o by_o god_n providence_n in_o his_o hand_n he_o destroy_v they_o as_o his_o call_n be_v albeit_o he_o lose_v his_o own_o life_n in_o the_o same_o action_n again_o samson_n in_o pull_v down_o the_o house_n purpose_v not_o direct_o and_o wilful_o to_o kill_v himself_o but_o to_o adventure_v his_o own_o life_n by_o take_v just_a revenge_n upon_o his_o enemy_n and_o the_o enemy_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o as_o god_n servant_n he_o pray_v first_o unto_o god_n and_o so_o do_v no_o more_o than_o the_o soldier_n in_o the_o field_n ought_v to_o do_v who_o bear_v a_o love_a mind_n towards_o his_o country_n be_v content_a to_o adventure_v his_o own_o life_n for_o the_o destruction_n of_o his_o enemy_n in_o the_o defence_n of_o his_o country_n and_o be_v resolve_v that_o if_o he_o die_v in_o that_o defence_n he_o die_v in_o his_o lawful_a place_n and_o calling_n and_o die_v god_n servant_n yea_o god_n champion_n this_o do_v samson_n and_o therefore_o may_v just_o be_v commend_v for_o his_o faith_n neither_o be_v this_o fact_n of_o his_o any_o disgrace_n but_o rather_o a_o notable_a commendation_n of_o his_o faith_n and_o a_o evidence_n of_o great_a zeal_n for_o god_n glory_n and_o of_o singular_a love_n to_o his_o people_n the_o four_o person_n commend_v here_o be_v jephte_n of_o who_o we_o may_v read_v judge_n 11._o jephte_n be_v the_o base_a son_n of_o gilead_n bear_v of_o a_o harlot_n to_o be_v base_a bear_v be_v note_v in_o scripture_n as_o a_o matter_n of_o reproach_n and_o
many_o parent_n be_v far_o otherwise_o for_o whereas_o they_o shall_v first_o seek_v unto_o the_o lord_n and_o come_v to_o his_o prophet_n they_o either_o run_v first_o to_o the_o ordinary_a mean_n of_o physic_n or_o be_v worse_o dispose_v seek_v help_n of_o wizard_n &_o blesser_n by_o their_o charm_n and_o sorcery_n forsake_v god_n and_o run_v to_o the_o devil_n indeed_o the_o use_n of_o lawful_a mean_n be_v not_o to_o be_v discommend_v simple_o but_o this_o preposterous_a course_n be_v blame-worthy_a and_o deprive_v many_o of_o god_n blessing_n in_o the_o mean_n that_o they_o seek_v help_v of_o physic_n before_o they_o have_v seek_v to_o the_o lord_n in_o this_o holy_a practice_n of_o faith_n quest._n but_o how_o can_v the_o parent_n faith_n benefit_n the_o child_n answ._n it_o can_v procure_v unto_o it_o eternal_a life_n for_o every_o one_o must_v be_v save_v by_o his_o own_o faith_n in_o christ._n and_o yet_o the_o child_n receive_v many_o a_o good_a blessing_n at_o god_n hand_n by_o mean_n of_o the_o parent_n faith_n as_o namely_o the_o benefit_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o seal_v thereof_o beside_o the_o fruition_n of_o many_o temporal_a blessing_n as_o life_n itself_o in_o this_o place_n the_o consideration_n hereof_o must_v move_v all_o parent_n above_o all_o thing_n to_o labour_v for_o true_a faith_n for_o by_o the_o practice_n hereof_o they_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o bring_v the_o great_a blessing_n upon_o themselves_o and_o their_o child_n and_o upon_o the_o lawful_a mean_n which_o they_o shall_v use_v for_o their_o good_a say_v the_o lord_n shall_v lay_v his_o hand_n upon_o child_n and_o servant_n in_o a_o family_n what_o must_v parent_n and_o master_n do_v sure_o the_o best_a way_n for_o help_n be_v the_o practice_n of_o faith_n in_o true_a humiliation_n for_o sin_n and_o prayer_n to_o god_n for_o mercy_n and_o for_o a_o blessing_n upon_o the_o mean_n which_o they_o shall_v use_v in_o all_o society_n this_o be_v true_a that_o by_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o governor_n many_o curse_n be_v remove_v and_o many_o blessing_n procure_v god_n send_v his_o judgement_n among_o we_o daily_o and_o we_o know_v not_o when_o other_o more_o shall_v befall_v we_o but_o for_o the_o removeall_n and_o prevent_v of_o they_o we_o must_v give_v ourselves_o to_o true_a humiliation_n and_o prayer_n and_o so_o shall_v we_o find_v the_o lord_n mercy_n towards_o we_o as_o these_o two_o woman_n do_v and_o thus_o much_o of_o this_o ten_o fruit_n of_o faith_n and_o of_o they_o all_o several_o now_o from_o they_o all_o joint_o together_o observe_v this_o special_a point_n that_o faith_n be_v such_o a_o grace_n of_o god_n as_o do_v bring_v down_o from_o heaven_n upon_o every_o believer_n all_o god_n blessing_n that_o be_v needful_a for_o he_o who_o be_v he_o that_o desire_v not_o to_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o gods_n blessing_n needful_a for_o he_o both_o in_o soul_n and_o body_n well_o the_o only_a way_n and_o mean_n hereto_o be_v to_o get_v a_o true_a and_o lively_a faith_n and_o to_o put_v the_o same_o in_o practice_n in_o all_o such_o duty_n as_o god_n shall_v require_v at_o our_o hand_n the_o worthy_a man_n before_o name_v obtain_v all_o the_o former_a most_o wonderful_a blessing_n by_o mean_n of_o their_o faith_n by_o it_o they_o escape_v the_o edge_n of_o the_o sword_n they_o quench_v the_o violence_n of_o the_o fire_n wax_v mighty_a in_o battle_n etc._n etc._n as_o we_o have_v hear_v now_o if_o faith_n be_v such_o a_o notable_a grace_n of_o god_n then_o above_o all_o thing_n in_o this_o world_n let_v we_o labour_v for_o it_o we_o must_v not_o content_v ourselves_o with_o lip-faith_n and_o so_o presume_v upon_o god_n mercy_n but_o we_o must_v labour_v for_o a_o true_a and_o lively_a faith_n in_o christ_n which_o may_v purify_v our_o heart_n and_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n in_o our_o life_n here_o be_v strong_a motive_n to_o persuade_v we_o hereunto_o for_o what_o do_v we_o desire_v riches_n honour_n or_o favour_n and_o grace_n in_o the_o world_n will_v we_o have_v health_n and_o strength_n nay_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n which_o be_v all_o in_o all_o then_o look_v to_o get_v true_a faith_n for_o in_o the_o practice_n thereof_o thou_o shall_v obtain_v of_o god_n all_o needful_a blessing_n both_o temporal_a and_o spiritual_a many_o toil_n themselves_o exceed_o by_o worldly_a mean_n to_o get_v temporal_a blessing_n as_o health_n wealth_n honour_n etc._n etc._n and_o yet_o never_o attain_v thereto_o because_o they_o seek_v they_o not_o by_o faith_n i_o confess_v natural_a man_n get_v many_o good_a thing_n but_o to_o they_o they_o be_v no_o blessing_n because_o they_o want_v faith_n both_o in_o get_v and_o keep_v of_o they_o for_o they_o lay_v all_o religion_n aside_o and_o toil_v themselves_o whole_o in_o worldly_a mean_n this_o course_n the_o child_n of_o god_n must_v beware_v of_o say_v that_o a_o prince_n bid_v one_o of_o his_o servant_n go_v to_o his_o treasury_n and_o there_o enrich_v himself_o with_o jewel_n with_o gold_n and_o silver_n and_o with_o whatsoever_o he_o lack_v what_o will_v this_o man_n do_v sure_o first_o he_o will_v call_v for_o the_o key_n whereby_o he_o may_v unlock_v the_o door_n and_o chest_n for_o else_o he_o can_v get_v nothing_o behold_v in_o the_o ministry_n of_o his_o word_n god_n show_v we_o his_o full_a treasury_n wherein_o we_o may_v enrich_v ourselves_o with_o all_o his_o blessing_n now_o we_o must_v not_o with_o the_o fool_n run_v without_o the_o key_n but_o labour_n first_o for_o true_a faith_n which_o be_v that_o key_n whereby_o god_n heavenly_a treasure_n be_v open_v unto_o we_o and_o we_o must_v be_v sure_a that_o we_o have_v a_o sound_a key_n that_o be_v a_o true_a and_o sound_a faith_n which_o may_v strong_o turn_v about_o the_o lock_n of_o god_n treasury_n for_o this_o be_v most_o certain_a he_o that_o do_v unfeigned_o believe_v shall_v never_o want_v any_o thing_n either_o in_o body_n or_o soul_n that_o be_v good_a for_o he_o to_o have_v every_o one_o will_v say_v he_o believe_v but_o the_o truth_n be_v that_o true_a faith_n be_v rare_a for_o man_n heart_n be_v not_o purify_v nor_o their_o life_n change_v but_o they_o remain_v as_o sinful_a as_o ever_o they_o be_v which_o cause_v god_n judgement_n to_o be_v rife_o among_o us._n wherefore_o as_o we_o desire_v our_o own_o good_a both_o in_o soul_n and_o body_n so_o let_v we_o labour_v for_o true_a faith_n and_o show_v forth_o the_o power_n of_o it_o in_o our_o life_n and_o thus_o much_o of_o these_o judge_n and_o prophet_n and_o of_o the_o fruit_n of_o their_o faith_n believer_n under_o the_o maccabee_n verse_n 35._o other_o also_o be_v rack_v and_o will_v not_o be_v deliver_v that_o they_o may_v receive_v a_o better_a resurrection_n in_o these_o word_n the_o author_n of_o this_o epistle_n proceed_v to_o the_o four_o order_n of_o example_n of_o faith_n contain_v in_o this_o chapter_n wherein_o as_o in_o the_o former_a last_o handle_v he_o proceed_v brief_o heap_v up_o in_o few_o word_n many_o worthy_a example_n of_o faith_n conceal_v the_o name_n of_o the_o party_n &_o only_o set_v down_o those_o thing_n for_o which_o their_o faith_n be_v commend_v unto_o us._n and_o this_o four_o and_o last_o order_n of_o example_n comprehend_v such_o believer_n as_o live_v under_o the_o regiment_n of_o the_o maccabee_n and_o afterward_o to_o the_o come_n of_o christ._n for_o of_o believer_n in_o former_a time_n it_o can_v be_v understand_v because_o there_o be_v a_o manifest_a distinction_n put_v between_o these_o believer_n and_o the_o former_a judge_n king_n and_o prophet_n in_o these_o word_n other_o also_o whereby_o it_o be_v plain_a that_o here_o he_o propound_v example_n of_o believer_n different_a from_o those_o which_o he_o mention_v before_o and_o it_o be_v also_o plain_a that_o these_o believer_n live_v before_o the_o come_n of_o christ._n for_o howsoever_o the_o christian_n in_o the_o primitive_a church_n be_v rack_v scourge_v and_o torment_v after_o this_o sort_n yet_o of_o they_o this_o place_n can_v be_v understand_v because_o they_o enjoy_v the_o promise_n of_o the_o messiah_n but_o these_o here_o mention_v enjoy_v not_o that_o promise_n in_o their_o day_n but_o wait_v for_o it_o by_o faith_n and_o therein_o die_v verse_n 39_o and_o indeed_o in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o maccabee_n the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n be_v wonderful_o persecute_v by_o antiochus_n about_o two_o hundred_o year_n before_o christ_n as_o we_o may_v see_v 2._o maccabee_n 4._o and_o 6._o chapter_n question_n where_o have_v the_o author_n of_o this_o epistle_n this_o large_a narration_n of_o these_o strange_a persecution_n see_v they_o be_v not_o register_v in_o the_o book_n of_o the_o old_a testament_n answer_n we_o may_v judge_v that_o he_o
most_o notorious_a which_o be_v foretell_v by_o daniel_n in_o his_o prophecy_n dan._n 11.36_o and_o be_v record_v in_o the_o book_n of_o the_o maccabee_n to_o come_v to_o the_o time_n of_o the_o gospel_n the_o primitive_a church_n after_o the_o ascension_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o first_o 300._o year_n suffer_v ten_o most_o bloody_a &_o grievous_a persecution_n betwixt_o each_o of_o which_o she_o yet_o have_v some_o time_n of_o peace_n and_o as_o it_o be_v respite_n to_o breath_n in_o and_o after_o the_o ten_o persecution_n end_v the_o lord_n raise_v up_o the_o good_a emperor_n constantine_n who_o bring_v peace_n &_o welfare_n unto_o the_o church_n but_o soon_o after_o he_o the_o heresy_n of_o arrius_n raise_v up_o by_o the_o devil_n bring_v as_o grievous_a persecution_n upon_o the_o church_n as_o ever_o the_o pagan_n do_v be_v a_o most_o blasphemous_a heresy_n deny_v the_o eternal_a deity_n of_o christ_n and_o of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o it_o prevail_v in_o the_o church_n for_o 80._o year_n not_o long_o after_o the_o suppression_n of_o that_o heresy_n begin_v the_o idolatry_n and_o tyranny_n of_o antichrist_n to_o prevail_v in_o the_o church_n for_o many_o hundred_o year_n and_o now_o about_o some_o fourscore_o year_n ago_o the_o lord_n in_o mercy_n raise_v up_o worthy_a instrument_n by_o who_o mean_n he_o deliver_v his_o church_n from_o that_o idolatry_n and_o blindness_n yet_o so_o as_o still_o the_o church_n have_v feel_v the_o bloody_a hand_n of_o antichrist_n in_o grievous_a persecution_n all_o which_o show_v this_o to_o be_v most_o true_a that_o the_o outward_a state_n of_o god_n church_n be_v interchangeable_a have_v one_o while_o peace_n and_o another_o while_n grievous_a persecution_n to_o apply_v this_o to_o ourselves_o god_n have_v plant_v his_o church_n among_o we_o in_o this_o land_n and_o for_o many_o year_n together_o have_v bless_v we_o with_o prosperity_n and_o peace_n which_o in_o great_a mercy_n he_o have_v give_v we_o as_o a_o reward_n of_o the_o faith_n of_o his_o servant_n which_o be_v among_o we_o and_o during_o this_o time_n we_o have_v have_v great_a freedom_n and_o liberty_n in_o god_n holy_a ministry_n for_o the_o word_n prayer_n &_o sacrament_n but_o we_o must_v know_v that_o the_o state_n of_o god_n church_n for_o peace_n and_o trouble_n be_v interchangeable_a as_o day_n and_o night_n for_o light_n and_o darkness_n wherefore_o we_o must_v be_v advertise_v to_o look_v unto_o ourselves_o for_o our_o estate_n in_o peace_n must_v not_o last_v always_o these_o golden_a day_n will_v have_v a_o end_n and_o trouble_n and_o affliction_n will_v undoubted_o come_v indeed_o god_n only_o know_v what_o kind_n of_o affliction_n shall_v befall_v and_o the_o particular_a time_n thereof_o but_o that_o they_o shall_v come_v in_o the_o time_n appoint_v of_o god_n we_o may_v resolve_v ourselves_o by_o the_o reason_n follow_v first_o the_o tenor_n of_o the_o law_n be_v this_o that_o the_o curse_n do_v follow_v the_o transgression_n so_o that_o when_o any_o man_n family_n or_o people_n live_v in_o the_o breach_n of_o god_n commandment_n they_o must_v look_v for_o god_n judgement_n to_o be_v pour_v upon_o they_o now_o we_o may_v too_o true_o assume_v that_o this_o our_o nation_n and_o people_n abound_v with_o grievous_a sin_n in_o all_o estate_n for_o in_o the_o civil_a estate_n to_o omit_v manifold_a practice_n of_o oppression_n where_o be_v justice_n without_o bribery_n or_o bargain_v without_o fraud_n and_o deceit_n and_o in_o the_o ministry_n beside_o many_o abuse_n where_o be_v that_o care_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v for_o the_o build_n of_o god_n church_n and_o for_o the_o body_n of_o our_o people_n beside_o gross_a ignorance_n and_o superstition_n what_o fearful_a blasphemy_n whoredom_n swear_v and_o sabbaoth-breaking_a do_v every_o where_o abound_v beside_o fearful_a atheism_n which_o be_v a_o mother_n of_o abomination_n whether_o we_o respect_v natural_a atheism_n whereby_o many_o deny_v god_n by_o their_o work_n or_o learned_a atheism_n in_o some_o who_o dispute_n against_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n reveal_v in_o his_o word_n all_o these_o and_o many_o other_o sin_n among_o we_o cry_v loud_o for_o gods_n judgement_n upon_o we_o even_o for_o that_o fearful_a judgement_n the_o remooveall_v of_o god_n kingdom_n in_o the_o gospel_n of_o peace_n second_o consider_v what_o manner_n of_o person_n of_o place_n and_o note_n both_o in_o church_n and_o common_a wealth_n god_n take_v from_o we_o by_o death_n even_o in_o their_o best_a time_n be_v they_o not_o such_o as_o excel_v among_o we_o for_o great_a wisdom_n and_o learning_n and_o for_o true_a piety_n and_o good_a conscience_n now_o howsoever_o this_o may_v seem_v but_o a_o small_a thing_n in_o the_o eye_n of_o many_o yet_o undoubted_o it_o be_v a_o forerunner_n of_o god_n judgement_n for_o the_o righteous_a perish_v and_o no_o man_n consider_v it_o in_o heart_n and_o merciful_a man_n be_v take_v away_o and_o no_o man_n understand_v that_o the_o righteous_a be_v take_v away_o from_o the_o evil_a to_o come_v isa._n 57.1_o three_o god_n have_v set_v his_o fearful_a judgement_n among_o we_o and_o about_o we_o war_n and_o sword_n in_o our_o neighbour_n nation_n which_o also_o have_v be_v oft_o shake_v at_o we_o also_o famine_n and_o pestilence_n throughout_o our_o own_o land_n by_o intercourse_n and_o long_a continuance_n levit._n 26._o now_o this_o be_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n that_o when_o god_n send_v his_o judgement_n upon_o a_o people_n if_o they_o do_v not_o repent_v one_o judgement_n be_v but_o the_o forerunner_n of_o another_o more_o grievous_a and_o terrible_a than_o the_o former_a but_o little_a or_o no_o repentance_n appear_v among_o we_o nay_o rather_o we_o fall_v away_o more_o and_o more_o and_o so_o stand_v still_o in_o danger_n of_o more_o fearful_a judgement_n last_o it_o be_v usual_a with_o god_n thus_o to_o deal_v with_o his_o own_o servant_n as_o he_o do_v sometime_o reward_v their_o faith_n and_o obedience_n with_o peace_n so_o otherwhiles_o he_o will_v try_v their_o faith_n by_o affliction_n thus_o he_o deal_v with_o his_o servant_n job_n though_o there_o be_v none_o for_o piety_n like_o he_o in_o his_o time_n through_o all_o the_o world_n now_o god_n have_v his_o servant_n among_o we_o for_o the_o trial_n of_o who_o faith_n we_o may_v persuade_v ourselves_o some_o tribulation_n shall_v come_v upon_o we_o for_o all_o that_o will_v live_v godly_a in_o christ_n jesus_n shall_v suffer_v tribulation_n 2._o tim._n 3.12_o this_o be_v so_o that_o our_o peace_n shall_v be_v turn_v into_o trouble_n as_o by_o the_o former_a reason_n which_o direct_o fasten_v themselves_o upon_o our_o church_n and_o state_n may_v evident_o appear_v let_v we_o then_o here_o learn_v our_o duty_n first_o we_o must_v cast_v with_o ourselves_o what_o may_v be_v the_o worst_a that_o can_v befall_v we_o when_o trial_n and_o persecution_n shall_v come_v this_o be_v the_o counsel_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n to_o those_o that_o will_v follow_v he_o constant_o as_o good_a disciple_n they_o must_v as_o good_a builder_n consider_v of_o the_o cost_n before_o they_o lie_v the_o foundation_n and_o like_o good_a warrior_n consider_v of_o their_o strength_n before_o they_o go_v out_o into_o the_o field_n lest_o they_o leave_v off_o &_o turn_v back_o like_o fool_n and_o coward_n luk._n 14.28_o etc._n etc._n we_o by_o god_n mercy_n do_v now_o profess_v the_o true_a religion_n of_o christ_n with_o hope_n to_o be_v save_v thereby_o therefore_o we_o must_v cast_v with_o ourselves_o what_o our_o religion_n may_v cost_v we_o and_o see_v before_o hand_n what_o be_v the_o worst_a thing_n that_o may_v befall_v we_o for_o our_o profession_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o gospel_n if_o we_o have_v not_o do_v this_o at_o the_o begin_n of_o our_o profession_n we_o must_v now_o do_v it_o for_o better_a late_o than_o never_o lest_o go_v on_o secure_o without_o this_o account_n make_v we_o shameful_o forsake_v christ_n when_o trial_n come_v in_o former_a time_n the_o constant_a profession_n of_o christ_n have_v cost_v man_n loss_n of_o friend_n loss_n of_o good_n and_o liberty_n yea_o the_o loss_n of_o their_o heart_n blood_n and_o the_o same_o case_n may_v befall_v us._n wherefore_o we_o must_v cast_v with_o ourselves_o and_o see_v whether_o we_o be_v willing_a to_o suffer_v the_o loss_n of_o good_n and_o friend_n yea_o the_o loss_n of_o our_o life_n for_o the_o defence_n of_o christ_n true_a religion_n again_o as_o this_o estate_n of_o the_o church_n must_v move_v we_o to_o make_v this_o account_n for_o resolution_n in_o suffer_v so_o it_o must_v teach_v we_o to_o labour_v for_o those_o save_a grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n which_o may_v enable_v we_o to_o stand_v fast_o in_o all_o temptation_n trouble_n &_o persecution_n we_o must_v not_o content_v ourselves_o with_o blaze_a lamp_n as_o the_o
these_o our_o body_n be_v they_o never_o so_o miserable_o torment_v here_o shall_v one_o day_n rise_v to_o life_n and_o glory_n by_o jesus_n christ._n all_o the_o true_a martyr_n of_o christ_n know_v and_o be_v resolve_v of_o this_o and_o this_o it_o be_v that_o make_v they_o so_o confident_a in_o their_o suffering_n and_o if_o we_o can_v attain_v unto_o it_o we_o shall_v find_v great_a use_n hereof_o both_o in_o life_n and_o death_n for_o our_o life_n this_o will_v move_v we_o to_o embrace_v true_a religion_n from_o our_o heart_n and_o in_o all_o thing_n to_o endeavour_n to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n this_o paul_n testify_v act._n 24.15_o 16_o for_o have_v make_v profession_n of_o his_o hope_n in_o the_o resurrection_n both_o of_o just_a and_o unjust_a he_o say_v and_o herein_o i_o endeavour_v myself_o to_o have_v always_o a_o clear_a conscience_n both_o towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n and_o for_o death_n this_o persuasion_n also_o be_v of_o great_a use_n for_o it_o will_v notable_o stay_v the_o heart_n against_o the_o natural_a fear_n of_o death_n it_o be_v a_o wonder_n to_o see_v how_o terrible_a the_o thought_n of_o death_n be_v to_o many_o a_o one_o now_o this_o fear_n arise_v hence_o that_o they_o be_v not_o in_o heart_n resolve_v of_o their_o resurrection_n to_o life_n and_o glory_n at_o the_o last_o day_n for_o if_o they_o be_v they_o will_v endeavour_n themselves_o with_o patience_n and_o with_o comfort_n to_o undergo_v the_o pang_n thereof_o though_o never_o so_o terrible_a second_o hence_o we_o must_v learn_v so_o to_o lead_v this_o temporal_a life_n that_o when_o we_o be_v dead_a our_o body_n may_v rise_v again_o to_o life_n eternal_a these_o martyr_n be_v a_o notable_a precedent_n herein_o unto_o we_o for_o they_o be_v so_o resolute_a to_o hold_v that_o course_n of_o life_n which_o have_v the_o hope_n of_o glory_n that_o they_o will_v rather_o lose_v temporal_a life_n then_o leave_v that_o course_n and_o indeed_o this_o duty_n be_v so_o necessary_a that_o unless_o we_o order_v well_o this_o temporal_a life_n we_o can_v never_o have_v hope_n to_o rise_v to_o glory_n quest._n how_o shall_v we_o lead_v this_o temporal_a life_n that_o we_o may_v rise_v to_o glory_n after_o death_n answer_n this_o s._n john_n teach_v we_o revel_v 20_o 6_o bless_a and_o holy_a be_v he_o that_o have_v his_o part_n in_o the_o first_o resurrection_n for_o on_o such_o the_o second_o death_n have_v no_o power_n we_o must_v therefore_o labour_v earnest_o to_o have_v our_o part_n herein_o this_o first_o resurrection_n be_v spiritual_a wrought_v in_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n cause_v he_o that_o be_v by_o nature_n dead_a in_o sin_n to_o rise_v to_o newness_n of_o life_n whereof_o whosoever_o be_v true_o partaker_n shall_v undoubted_o rise_v to_o glory_n for_o they_o that_o be_v quicken_v in_o christ_n from_o the_o death_n of_o sin_n be_v make_v to_o sit_v together_o in_o heavenly_a place_n in_o christ_n jesus_n eph._n 2.5.6_o natural_a death_n may_v sever_v soul_n &_o body_n for_o a_o time_n but_o it_o can_v never_o hinder_v the_o fruition_n of_o eternal_a life_n wherefore_o as_o we_o desire_v this_o life_n which_o be_v eternal_a when_o we_o be_v dead_a so_o let_v we_o frame_v our_o natural_a life_n to_o die_v unto_o sin_n while_o we_o be_v alive_a verse_n 36._o and_o other_o have_v be_v try_v by_o mock_n and_o scourge_n yea_o moreover_o by_o bond_n and_o prisonment_n the_o second_o kind_n of_o suffer_v wherewith_o the_o servant_n of_o god_n be_v then_o try_v be_v mock_v touch_v the_o which_o we_o may_v observe_v diverse_a point_n first_o whence_o it_o come_v no_o doubt_v it_o come_v from_o ungodly_a person_n that_o be_v enemy_n to_o god_n church_n &_o true_a religion_n for_o here_o it_o be_v make_v a_o part_n of_o the_o trial_n of_o god_n church_n by_o the_o enemy_n thereof_o here_o then_o behold_v the_o state_n of_o mocker_n and_o scoffer_n at_o the_o servant_n of_o god_n they_o be_v here_o account_v wicked_a wretch_n and_o enemy_n to_o god_n and_o to_o his_o truth_n so_o saint_n jude_n speak_v of_o certain_a false_a prophet_n which_o be_v creep_v into_o the_o church_n call_v they_o ungodly_a man_n jude_n 4_o which_o he_o prove_v afterward_o by_o their_o black_a mouth_n in_o evil_a speak_n verse_n 8.10_o and_o ishmael_n be_v account_v a_o persecuter_n by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o mock_v isaac_n galatian_n chapter_n 4._o verse_n 29._o and_o david_n reckon_v up_o the_o degree_n of_o sinner_n make_v the_o chair_n of_o the_o scornful_a the_o three_o and_o high_a psalm_n 1.1_o all_o these_o place_n show_v the_o heinousness_n of_o this_o sin_n and_o therefore_o if_o any_o of_o we_o young_a or_o old_a high_a or_o low_o have_v be_v overtake_v with_o it_o heretofore_o let_v we_o now_o repent_v and_o leave_v it_o for_o it_o be_v odious_a in_o god_n sight_n thou_o that_o be_v a_o scoffer_n may_v flatter_v thyself_o and_o think_v all_o be_v well_o let_v the_o matter_n prove_v how_o it_o can_v word_n be_v but_o wind_n but_o know_v thy_o case_n be_v fearful_a for_o as_o yet_o thou_o want_v the_o fear_n of_o god_n and_o be_v a_o enemy_n to_o christ_n and_o his_o religion_n and_o one_o day_n thou_o shall_v be_v judge_v not_o only_o for_o thy_o wicked_a deed_n but_o for_o all_o thy_o cruel_a speaking_n jude_n verse_n 15._o second_o whereas_o these_o servant_n of_o god_n be_v try_v by_o mock_n it_o show_v that_o god_n church_n in_o this_o world_n be_v subject_a to_o this_o affliction_n it_o be_v not_o a_o thing_n new_o begin_v in_o this_o age_n of_o we_o but_o have_v be_v always_o in_o god_n church_n from_o the_o beginning_n genesis_n chapter_n 21._o verse_n 9_o ishmael_n mock_v isaac_n and_o isaiah_n bring_v in_o christ_n complain_v thus_o isaiah_n chapter_n 8._o verse_n 18_o behold_v i_o and_o my_o child_n who_o the_o lord_n have_v give_v i_o be_v as_o sign_n and_o wonder_n in_o israel_n and_o jeremie_n say_v i_o be_o in_o derision_n daily_o every_o one_o mock_v i_o jeremie_n chapter_n 20._o verse_n 7_o yea_o our_o saviour_n christ_n upon_o the_o cross_n when_o he_o be_v work_v the_o bless_a work_n of_o man_n redemption_n be_v even_o then_o mock_v by_o the_o spiteful_a jew_n mat._n 27.41_o and_o paul_n be_v mock_v of_o the_o athenian_n for_o preach_v christ_n and_o the_o resurrection_n act_n 17.18_o now_o if_o this_o have_v be_v the_o estate_n of_o christ_n our_o head_n &_o of_o his_o most_o worthy_a prophet_n and_o apostle_n to_o be_v mock_v &_o scorn_v then_o must_v no_o child_n of_o god_n at_o this_o day_n think_v to_o escape_v for_o if_o they_o have_v do_v this_o to_o the_o green_a tree_n what_o will_v they_o do_v to_o the_o dry_a wherefore_o if_o we_o belong_v to_o christ_n we_o must_v prepare_v for_o it_o and_o arm_v ourselves_o with_o patience_n to_o undergo_v this_o trial_n the_o disciple_n be_v not_o above_o his_o master_n nor_o the_o servant_n above_o his_o lord_n if_o they_o have_v call_v the_o master_n of_o the_o house_n beelzebub_n how_o much_o more_o they_o of_o the_o house_n mat._n 10.24_o 25_o three_o whereas_o these_o servant_n of_o god_n be_v try_v by_o mock_n and_o do_v endure_v the_o same_o by_o faith_n here_o we_o learn_v how_o to_o behave_v ourselves_o when_o we_o be_v subject_a to_o mock_v and_o derision_n especial_o for_o religion_n sake_n we_o must_v not_o return_v mock_n for_o mock_v and_o taunt_v for_o taunt_v but_o with_o meekness_n of_o heart_n learn_v to_o bear_v the_o same_o when_o christ_n be_v upon_o the_o cross_n the_o jew_n most_o shameful_o mock_v he_o yet_o even_o then_o do_v christ_n pray_v for_o they_o and_o the_o same_o be_v david_n behaviour_n as_o we_o may_v read_v notable_o psal._n 38._o verse_n 12_o 13_o 14_o when_o his_o enemy_n speak_v evil_a of_o he_o what_o do_v he_o do_v he_o rail_v on_o they_o again_o no_o he_o be_v as_o a_o deaf_a man_n and_o hear_v not_o and_o as_o a_o dumb_a man_n which_o open_v not_o his_o mouth_n even_o as_o a_o man_n that_o hear_v not_o and_o in_o who_o mouth_n be_v no_o reproof_n this_o be_v a_o rare_a thing_n in_o david_n that_o he_o can_v thus_o bridle_v his_o affection_n in_o the_o case_n of_o reproach_n but_o read_v the_o 15._o verse_n and_o we_o shall_v see_v the_o cause_n he_o trust_v in_o the_o lord_n his_o god_n also_o he_o consider_v the_o hand_n of_o god_n in_o their_o reproach_n as_o 2._o samuel_n chapter_n 16._o ver_fw-la 10_o and_o these_o thing_n make_v he_o silent_a this_o example_n we_o must_v look_v upon_o and_o learn_v hereby_o with_o patience_n to_o possess_v our_o soul_n under_o reproach_n the_o three_o kind_n of_o suffer_v be_v scourge_v they_o be_v not_o only_o mock_v for_o religion_n but_o also_o whip_v and_o
christ_n and_o thereupon_o rest_v our_o soul_n thus_o do_v these_o believer_n in_o this_o place_n and_o this_o faith_n do_v job_n notable_o testify_v when_o god_n have_v take_v from_o he_o child_n good_n health_n yea_o and_o all_o that_o he_o have_v yet_o than_o he_o say_v job_n 13.15_o though_o he_o kill_v i_o yet_o will_v i_o trust_v in_o he_o and_o so_o must_v we_o endeavour_n to_o do_v if_o that_o case_n befall_v we_o for_o when_o all_o worldly_a help_n and_o comfort_n fail_v we_o this_o promise_n of_o life_n in_o christ_n will_v be_v a_o sweet_a and_o safe_a refuge_n for_o our_o soul_n be_v destitute_a afflict_a and_o torment_v here_o the_o apostle_n amplifi_v their_o misery_n in_o their_o wander_a estate_n by_o three_o degree_n of_o cross_n which_o do_v accompany_v the_o same_o first_o they_o be_v destitute_a of_o all_o temporal_a blessing_n second_o they_o be_v afflict_v both_o in_o body_n and_o mind_n three_o torment_v that_o be_v evil_o entreat_v these_o be_v add_v for_o a_o special_a cause_n to_o show_v that_o these_o servant_n of_o god_n be_v lade_v with_o affliction_n they_o be_v banish_v &_o drive_v to_o extreme_a poverty_n they_o be_v deprive_v of_o all_o their_o good_n and_o of_o all_o society_n of_o man_n they_o be_v afflict_v in_o body_n and_o in_o mind_n and_o evil_o entreat_v of_o all_o man_n no_o man_n will_v do_v they_o good_a but_o all_o man_n do_v they_o wrong_n whereby_o we_o see_v that_o even_a wave_n of_o misery_n overwhelm_v they_o on_o every_o side_n hence_o we_o learn_v that_o god_n servant_n may_v be_v overwhelm_v with_o manifold_a calamity_n at_o the_o same_o instant_n be_v press_v down_o with_o cross_n in_o good_n in_o body_n mind_n friend_n and_o every_o way_n this_o be_v job_n case_n a_o most_o worthy_a servant_n of_o god_n he_o be_v afflict_v in_o body_n in_o friend_n good_n &_o child_n &_o which_o be_v great_a of_o all_o he_o wrestle_v in_o conscience_n with_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n job_n 13.16_o thou_o write_v bitter_a thing_n against_o i_o and_o make_v i_o to_o possess_v the_o iniquity_n of_o my_o youth_n and_o the_o like_a have_v be_v the_o state_n of_o many_o of_o god_n child_n psal._n 88.3.7_o my_o soul_n be_v fill_v with_o evil_n thou_o have_v vex_v i_o with_o all_o thy_o wave_n etc._n etc._n question_n how_o can_v this_o stand_v with_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n word_n wherein_o be_v promise_n of_o all_o manner_n of_o blessing_n both_o temporal_a and_o spiritual_a to_o those_o that_o fear_v he_o deut._n 28._o 1_o 2_o etc._n etc._n if_o thou_o obey_v the_o voice_n of_o the_o lord_n thy_o god_n all_o these_o blessing_n shall_v come_v upon_o thou_o and_o overtake_v thou_o bless_a in_o the_o city_n and_o in_o the_o field_n in_o the_o fruit_n of_o thy_o body_n and_o of_o thy_o ground_n and_o cattle_n psal._n 34.10_o they_o that_o seek_v the_o lord_n shall_v lack_v nothing_o that_o be_v good_a for_o godliness_n have_v the_o promise_n of_o this_o life_n and_o of_o the_o life_n to_o come_v 1._o tim._n 4.8_o and_o therefore_o david_n compare_v the_o godly_a man_n to_o the_o tree_n that_o be_v plant_v by_o the_o water_n side_n which_o bring_v forth_o much_o fruit_n and_o be_v green_a and_o well_o like_n psalm_n 1.3_o how_o then_o come_v this_o to_o pass_v that_o god_n own_o servant_n shall_v be_v thus_o oppress_v and_o lade_v not_o with_o one_o calamity_n or_o two_o but_o with_o sundry_a and_o grievous_a affliction_n at_o the_o same_o time_n answer_n true_a it_o be_v the_o scripture_n be_v full_a of_o gracious_a promise_n of_o temporal_a blessing_n unto_o god_n child_n but_o they_o be_v conditional_a and_o must_v be_v understand_v with_o a_o exception_n to_o this_o effect_n god_n child_n shall_v have_v such_o and_o such_o blessing_n unless_o it_o please_v god_n by_o affliction_n to_o make_v trial_n of_o his_o grace_n in_o they_o or_o to_o chastise_v they_o for_o some_o sin_n so_o that_o the_o exception_n of_o the_o cross_n for_o the_o trial_n of_o grace_n or_o chastisement_n for_o sin_n must_v be_v apply_v to_o all_o promise_n of_o temporal_a blessing_n and_o hence_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o the_o most_o worthy_a &_o renown_a servant_n of_o god_n for_o their_o faith_n be_v say_v to_o be_v afflict_v and_o in_o misery_n for_o his_o promise_n of_o temporal_a blessing_n be_v not_o absolute_a but_o conditional_a all_o thing_n be_v they_o as_o paul_n say_v 1._o cor._n 3.21_o and_o they_o shall_v have_v honour_n wealth_n favour_n etc._n etc._n unless_o it_o please_v god_n to_o prove_v their_o faith_n or_o to_o chastise_v their_o sin_n by_o cross_n and_o affliction_n question_n how_o can_v god_n servant_n be_v able_a to_o bear_v so_o many_o and_o grievous_a cross_n at_o once_o see_v it_o be_v hard_o for_o a_o man_n to_o bear_v one_o cross_n patient_o the_o answer_n be_v here_o lay_v down_o to_o wit_n by_o faith_n for_o many_o and_o grievous_a be_v the_o misery_n that_o lay_v on_o these_o servant_n of_o god_n and_o yet_o by_o believe_v the_o promise_n of_o life_n in_o the_o messiah_n they_o be_v enable_v to_o bear_v they_o all_o this_o be_v a_o sovereign_a remedy_n against_o immoderate_a grief_n in_o the_o great_a distress_n and_o undoubted_o the_o flood_n of_o affliction_n shall_v never_o overwhelm_v he_o that_o have_v his_o heart_n assure_v by_o faith_n of_o the_o mercy_n of_o god_n towards_o he_o by_o jesus_n christ._n this_o make_v david_n say_v he_o will_v not_o fear_v evil_a though_o he_o shall_v walk_v through_o the_o valley_n of_o the_o shadow_n of_o death_n psal._n 23.4_o and_o paul_n speak_v of_o tribulation_n anguish_n famine_n persecution_n yea_o and_o death_n itself_o sai_z in_o all_o these_o we_o be_v more_o than_o conqueror_n through_o he_o that_o have_v love_v rom._n 8.37_o and_o from_o this_o faith_n it_o be_v that_o he_o be_v able_a to_o endure_v all_o estate_n to_o be_v hungry_a to_o want_v etc._n etc._n phil._n 4.12_o 13._o if_o this_o be_v true_a that_o god_n child_n may_v be_v afflict_v with_o manifold_a calamity_n at_o once_o then_o the_o opinion_n of_o natural_a and_o ungodly_a man_n be_v false_a who_o judge_v he_o to_o be_v wicked_a and_o ungodly_a who_o god_n lade_v with_o manifold_a calamity_n this_o be_v the_o judgement_n of_o job_n three_o friend_n and_o the_o ground_n of_o all_o their_o disputation_n against_o he_o that_o because_o god_n have_v lay_v so_o great_a and_o so_o many_o cross_n upon_o he_o therefore_o he_o be_v but_o a_o hypocrite_n and_o this_o be_v the_o rash_a judgement_n of_o natural_a man_n in_o our_o day_n especial_o upon_o those_o that_o make_v profession_n of_o religion_n when_o god_n hand_n of_o trial_n or_o correction_n lie_v upon_o they_o they_o present_o censure_v they_o for_o hypocrite_n but_o this_o be_v a_o wretched_a opinion_n for_o god_n dear_a child_n may_v be_v press_v down_o with_o manifold_a calamity_n second_o see_v faith_n in_o christ_n will_v support_v the_o soul_n under_o manifold_a cross_n be_v they_o never_o so_o grievous_a we_o must_v labour_v in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n to_o have_v our_o heart_n root_v and_o ground_v in_o this_o faith_n and_o when_o affliction_n come_v we_o must_v strive_v to_o show_v forth_o the_o fruit_n and_o power_n of_o it_o by_o bear_v they_o patient_o and_o thus_o much_o of_o the_o several_a branch_n of_o affliction_n in_o this_o last_o example_n of_o believer_n verse_n 38._o who_o the_o world_n be_v not_o worthy_a of_o they_o wander_v in_o the_o wilderness_n and_o mountain_n and_o den_n and_o cave_n of_o the_o earth_n in_o these_o word_n the_o holy_a ghost_n do_v answer_v to_o a_o secret_a objection_n or_o surmise_n which_o a_o natural_a man_n may_v conceive_v against_o the_o believer_n speak_v of_o before_o for_o it_o be_v say_v that_o they_o wander_v up_o and_o down_o some_o man_n may_v think_v thus_o no_o marvel_n though_o they_o wander_v up_o and_o down_o for_o it_o may_v be_v they_o be_v not_o worthy_a to_o live_v in_o the_o world_n this_o the_o holy_a ghost_n do_v flat_o deny_v and_o avouch_v the_o clean_a contrary_n of_o they_o to_o wit_n that_o they_o wander_v up_o and_o down_o by_o faith_n and_o the_o lord_n cause_v they_o so_o to_o do_v because_o the_o world_n be_v not_o worthy_a of_o they_o they_o be_v too_o good_a to_o live_v in_o the_o world_n in_o this_o answer_n to_o this_o surmise_n we_o may_v observe_v what_o be_v the_o opinion_n of_o natural_a man_n concern_v the_o child_n of_o god_n to_o wit_n that_o they_o be_v not_o worthy_a to_o live_v in_o the_o world_n but_o the_o earth_n whereon_o they_o tread_v be_v too_o good_a for_o they_o this_o have_v be_v be_v and_o will_v be_v the_o world_n estimation_n of_o god_n child_n matthew_n chapter_n 24._o verse_n 9_o you_o shall_v be_v hate_v of_o all_o
the_o apostle_n speak_v that_o the_o believer_n live_v in_o these_o last_o day_n may_v have_v time_n of_o be_v in_o the_o church_n to_o be_v call_v justify_v and_o sanctify_v that_o so_o they_o may_v be_v glorify_v with_o they_o that_o live_v before_o for_o put_v the_o case_n that_o christ_n have_v suffer_v in_o the_o day_n of_o abraham_n or_o david_n or_o thereabout_a then_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n must_v needs_o have_v come_v the_o soon_o for_o so_o it_o be_v foretell_v that_o christ_n shall_v come_v in_o the_o late_a age_n of_o the_o world_n 1._o pet_n 1_o 20._o now_o if_o the_o world_n have_v be_v soon_o cut_v off_o then_o have_v there_o not_o be_v time_n of_o birth_n and_o calling_n for_o all_o the_o elect_a that_o now_o live_v and_o shall_v live_v therefore_o for_o their_o sake_n be_v christ_n come_n defer_v till_o the_o fullness_n of_o time_n and_o this_o i_o take_v to_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o the_o word_n now_o in_o that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n here_o say_v the_o member_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o new_a testament_n must_v be_v perfect_v with_o all_o the_o ancient_a believer_n in_o the_o old_a we_o must_v hereby_o be_v admonish_v to_o conform_v ourselves_o unto_o these_o ancient_a father_n in_o the_o participation_n of_o grace_n &_o practice_n of_o obedience_n in_o this_o life_n for_o how_o can_v we_o look_v to_o be_v glorify_v with_o they_o after_o this_o life_n if_o here_o we_o be_v not_o like_o they_o in_o grace_n christ_n tell_v his_o follower_n that_o many_o shall_v come_v from_o the_o east_n and_o from_o the_o west_n to_o sit_v with_o abraham_n isaac_n and_o jacob_n in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n math_n 8.11_o 12_o because_o they_o be_v follower_n of_o these_o patriarch_n in_o the_o faith_n when_o as_o the_o child_n of_o the_o kingdom_n that_o be_v many_o jew_n by_o birth_n bear_v in_o the_o church_n shall_v be_v cast_v into_o utter_a darkness_n now_o if_o christ_n deny_v to_o glorify_v the_o child_n and_o posterity_n of_o these_o ancient_a believer_n because_o they_o do_v not_o follow_v they_o in_o grace_n and_o in_o obedience_n how_o can_v we_o which_o be_v by_o nature_n sinner_n of_o the_o gentile_n look_v to_o be_v glorify_v with_o they_o unless_o in_o grace_n and_o obedience_n we_o conform_v ourselves_o unto_o they_o thus_o much_o for_o these_o example_n of_o faith_n now_o something_o must_v be_v add_v out_o of_o the_o next_o chapter_n because_o there_o the_o holy_a ghost_n make_v use_v of_o all_o these_o worthy_a example_n a_o commentary_n upon_o part_n of_o the_o 12._o chapter_n to_o the_o hebrew_n verse_n 1._o wherefore_o let_v we_o also_o see_v we_o be_v compass_v with_o so_o great_a a_o cloud_n of_o witness_n cast_v away_o every_o thing_n that_o press_v down_o and_o that_o sin_n that_o hang_v so_o fast_o on_o let_v we_o run_v with_o patience_n the_o race_n that_o be_v set_v before_o us._n in_o these_o word_n the_o holy_a ghost_n propound_v a_o worthy_a exhortation_n to_o the_o christian_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n that_o they_o shall_v labour_v to_o be_v constant_a in_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o faith_n that_o be_v in_o hold_v embracing_z and_o beeleeve_v true_a christian_a religion_n and_o his_o reason_n be_v frame_v thus_o the_o saint_n of_o god_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n be_v constant_a in_o the_o faith_n and_o therefore_o you_o must_v likewise_o be_v constant_a in_o the_o faith_n that_o live_v in_o the_o new_a testament_n the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o reason_n be_v lay_v down_o in_o all_o the_o example_n of_o the_o former_a chapter_n the_o conclusion_n or_o sequel_n be_v contain_v in_o this_o 1._o verse_n wherein_o we_o may_v observe_v two_o point_n a_o exhortation_n unto_o constancy_n in_o true_a religion_n and_o the_o way_n or_o mean_n to_o attain_v thereunto_o the_o exhortation_n be_v infer_v upon_o the_o former_a example_n which_o be_v all_o here_o apply_v as_o precedent_n and_o direction_n unto_o we_o for_o constancy_n and_o perseverance_n in_o the_o faith_n in_o these_o word_n wherefore_o see_v we_o be_v compass_v about_o with_o such_o a_o cloud_n of_o witness_n that_o be_v see_v abel_n enoch_n no_o abraham_n and_o all_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o holy_a father_n who_o be_v a_o cloud_n of_o witness_n unto_o we_o that_o be_v light_n and_o leader_n before_o we_o be_v constant_a in_o true_a religion_n whether_o we_o respect_v their_o faith_n in_o god_n promise_n or_o obedience_n to_o his_o commandment_n therefore_o we_o also_o must_v be_v constant_a in_o the_o faith_n the_o way_n or_o mean_n hereunto_o stand_v in_o three_o duty_n in_o the_o word_n follow_v let_v we_o cast_v away_o etc._n etc._n for_o the_o exhortation_n first_o in_o general_a the_o very_a infer_v of_o it_o from_o the_o former_a example_n teach_v we_o this_o special_a duty_n that_o every_o one_o in_o god_n church_n must_v apply_v unto_o himself_o those_o instruction_n that_o be_v lay_v down_o either_o general_o in_o doctrine_n or_o particular_o in_o example_n and_o therefore_o the_o holy_a ghost_n here_o say_v not_o let_v the_o galatian_n or_o the_o corinthian_n which_o be_v renown_v church_n be_v constant_a in_o the_o faith_n but_o let_v we_o that_o be_v you_o hebrew_n with_o myself_o be_v constant_a in_o the_o faith_n follow_v the_o example_n of_o your_o ancient_a father_n it_o be_v say_v of_o the_o ancient_a jew_n that_o many_o of_o they_o hear_v god_n word_n but_o it_o be_v not_o profitable_a unto_o they_o 4.2_o because_o it_o be_v not_o mingle_v with_o faith_n in_o they_o what_o be_v it_o to_o mingle_v the_o word_n with_o faith_n it_o be_v not_o only_o to_o receive_v it_o by_o faith_n believe_v it_o to_o be_v true_a but_o also_o by_o the_o same_o hand_n of_o faith_n to_o apply_v it_o to_o a_o man_n own_o soul_n to_o his_o heart_n and_o life_n and_o undoubted_o god_n word_n thus_o apply_v to_o a_o man_n particular_a person_n have_v in_o it_o great_a power_n and_o fruit_n whether_o we_o regard_v information_n of_o judgement_n or_o reformation_n of_o life_n but_o it_o be_v a_o hard_a thing_n to_o do_v and_o rare_a to_o find_v a_o man_n that_o do_v sincere_o apply_v unto_o himself_o either_o general_a doctrine_n or_o particular_a example_n we_o be_v all_o prone_a to_o shift_v it_o from_o ourselves_o and_o to_o lay_v it_o upon_o other_o say_v this_o be_v a_o good_a item_n or_o a_o good_a lesson_n for_o such_o a_o one_o or_o such_o a_o one_o if_o he_o be_v here_o or_o if_o he_o will_v mark_v it_o in_o the_o mean_a while_n what_o benefit_n reap_v we_o to_o our_o own_o soul_n for_o the_o word_n not_o apply_v to_o ourselves_o do_v we_o no_o good_a it_o be_v like_a physic_n not_o take_v or_o food_n not_o eat_v and_o hence_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o though_o we_o hear_v much_o yet_o we_o profit_v little_a by_o the_o ministry_n of_o god_n word_n we_o must_v therefore_o learn_v to_o follow_v mary_n example_n who_o ponder_v christ_n word_n and_o lay_v they_o up_o in_o she_o own_o heart_n when_o a_o exhortation_n be_v give_v we_o must_v not_o post_v it_o off_o and_o lay_v it_o upon_o other_o man_n shoulder_n but_o apply_v it_o to_o ourselves_o and_o lay_v it_o to_o our_o own_o heart_n say_v this_o instruction_n be_v for_o i_o hereby_o no_o doubt_n we_o shall_v feel_v great_a blessing_n upon_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n than_o yet_o we_o do_v and_o to_o move_v we_o hereunto_o let_v we_o consider_v that_o satan_n our_o utter_a enemy_n who_o seek_v nothing_o but_o our_o destruction_n be_v most_o busy_a to_o hinder_v this_o application_n of_o the_o word_n either_o by_o the_o minister_n or_o by_o a_o man_n own_o conscience_n as_o for_o example_n when_o the_o minister_n by_o occasion_n out_o of_o god_n word_n shall_v confute_v either_o error_n in_o judgement_n or_o misdemeanour_n in_o life_n then_o man_n that_o hear_v and_o be_v guilty_a thereof_o shall_v say_v this_o be_v my_o error_n or_o my_o fault_n now_o be_o i_o confute_v or_o reprove_v and_o god_n no_o doubt_n if_o man_n will_v thus_o do_v will_v make_v it_o effectual_a unto_o they_o at_o the_o length_n but_o in_o stead_n of_o this_o apply_v to_o ourselves_o either_o through_o our_o own_o corruption_n or_o satan_n suggestion_n or_o both_o we_o shift_v it_o from_o ourselves_o and_o say_v now_o he_o reprove_v such_o a_o one_o and_o such_o a_o one_o and_o speak_v against_o such_o and_o such_o and_o indeed_o satan_n by_o his_o good_a will_n will_v never_o have_v a_o man_n to_o apply_v the_o word_n right_o to_o himself_o therefore_o see_v satan_n be_v so_o busy_a and_o this_o be_v his_o deceit_n to_o make_v a_o man_n shift_v off_o a_o exhortation_n or_o reproof_n from_o himself_o and_o to_o lay_v it_o on_o other_o we_o must_v be_v as_o careful_a to_o apply_v it_o to_o
sin_n and_o the_o infusion_n of_o inward_a righteousness_n stand_v in_o hope_n and_o charity_n especial_o and_o the_o second_o whereby_o of_o a_o good_a man_n one_o be_v make_v better_o and_o more_o just_a and_o this_o they_o say_v may_v proceed_v from_o the_o merit_n of_o a_o man_n own_o work_n of_o grace_n and_o hereby_o they_o hold_v a_o man_n stand_v righteous_a before_o god_n but_o look_v how_o it_o stand_v with_o grace_n in_o we_o in_o this_o life_n so_o likewise_o shall_v it_o stand_v with_o the_o same_o grace_n at_o the_o last_o day_n if_o they_o be_v imperfect_a now_o and_o so_o not_o able_a to_o justify_v we_o before_o god_n they_o shall_v also_o be_v find_v imperfect_a then_o to_o that_o purpose_n and_o effect_n but_o now_o they_o be_v imperfect_a as_o have_v be_v show_v and_o therefore_o can_v then_o stand_v for_o our_o righteousness_n unless_o we_o will_v imagine_v that_o god_n will_v then_o accept_v of_o a_o imperfect_a justice._n wherefore_o their_o doctrine_n be_v erroneous_a &_o a_o doctrine_n of_o all_o terror_n and_o desperation_n for_o who_o dare_v adventure_v the_o salvation_n of_o his_o soul_n upon_o his_o own_o righteousness_n we_o deny_v not_o but_o that_o god_n accept_v of_o our_o sanctification_n yet_o not_o as_o the_o matter_n of_o our_o justification_n unto_o life_n that_o only_o be_v the_o obedience_n and_o righteousness_n of_o jesus_n christ_n accept_v of_o god_n for_o we_o and_o make_v we_o by_o faith_n for_o that_o alone_o be_v answerable_a to_o the_o rigour_n of_o the_o law_n three_o this_o also_o show_v the_o error_n of_o those_o who_o hold_v that_o concupiscence_n or_o original_a sin_n be_v not_o a_o quality_n but_o a_o essence_n or_o substance_n live_v and_o subsist_v by_o itself_o for_o here_o we_o see_v a_o plain_a difference_n between_o a_o man_n body_n and_o soul_n and_o original_a sin_n that_o compass_v they_o else_o the_o holy_a ghost_n will_v not_o bid_v we_o to_o cast_v off_o this_o sin_n for_o that_o which_o be_v of_o the_o substance_n of_o man_n can_v by_o man_n be_v cast_v off_o and_o to_o make_v this_o more_o plain_a we_o must_v know_v that_o in_o man_n descend_v from_o adam_n there_o be_v three_o thing_n 1._o the_o substance_n of_o his_o soul_n and_o body_n 2._o the_o power_n and_o faculty_n in_o they_o both_o 3._o the_o corruption_n or_o bad_a disposition_n in_o those_o power_n and_o faculty_n whereby_o a_o man_n be_v unconformable_a to_o the_o will_n of_o his_o creator_n and_o prone_a to_o that_o which_o be_v evil_a and_o this_o three_o thing_n be_v it_o which_o be_v here_o speak_v of_o different_z from_o man_n substance_n and_o faculty_n and_o so_o be_v not_o a_o substance_n in_o man_n or_o man_n nature_n corrupt_v but_o a_o ill_a disposition_n therein_o four_o hence_o also_o we_o learn_v what_o a_o regenerate_a man_n do_v most_o feel_v in_o himself_o namely_o original_a sin_n the_o corruption_n of_o his_o nature_n for_o that_o hang_v on_o fast_o and_o hinder_v he_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o all_o good_a duty_n this_o paul_n know_v well_o and_o therefore_o confess_v that_o he_o see_v another_o law_n in_o his_o member_n rebel_a against_o the_o law_n of_o his_o mind_n and_o lead_v he_o captive_a unto_o the_o law_n of_o sin_n which_o be_v in_o his_o member_n rom._n 7.23_o this_o cause_v he_o to_o leave_v undo_v the_o good_a which_o he_o will_v have_v do_v and_o to_o do_v the_o evil_a which_o he_o will_v not_o do_v verse_n 19_o and_o david_n feel_v the_o same_o thing_n when_o he_o say_v i_o will_v run_v the_o way_n of_o thy_o commandment_n when_o thou_o shall_v enlarge_v my_o heart_n why_o do_v david_n speak_v of_o the_o enlarge_n of_o his_o heart_n sure_o he_o feel_v in_o himself_o this_o original_a sin_n which_o do_v streicten_v his_o good_a affection_n so_o as_o he_o can_v not_o put_v they_o forth_o so_o much_o as_o he_o will_v towards_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o when_o he_o say_v psal._n 51.12_o establish_v i_o oh_o lord_n by_o thy_o free_a spirit_n he_o will_v give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o by_o original_a corruption_n he_o be_v restrain_v of_o his_o christian_a liberty_n and_o hinder_v in_o all_o good_a affection_n holy_a action_n and_o heavenly_a meditation_n which_o cause_v he_o to_o pray_v for_o liberty_n and_o freedom_n by_o the_o spirit_n so_o that_o it_o be_v plain_a the_o servant_n of_o god_n feel_v this_o corruption_n clog_a and_o hinder_v he_o from_o all_o good_a duty_n 1._o this_o serve_v to_o admonish_v all_o secure_a person_n which_o never_o feel_v sin_n to_o be_v a_o clog_n or_o burden_n unto_o they_o of_o their_o fearful_a and_o dangerous_a estate_n for_o to_o every_o child_n of_o god_n original_a corruption_n be_v a_o grievous_a burden_n now_o confer_v with_o a_o natural_a man_n and_o ask_v he_o what_o imperfection_n and_o want_n he_o feel_v in_o himself_o his_o answer_n be_v he_o never_o be_v hinder_v by_o any_o corruption_n in_o all_o his_o life_n he_o never_o feel_v doubt_v or_o want_n of_o love_n either_o to_o god_n or_o to_o his_o brethren_n he_o feel_v no_o pride_n of_o heart_n no_o guile_n or_o hypocrisy_n nor_o vainglory_n etc._n etc._n if_o we_o take_v these_o man_n upon_o their_o word_n they_o be_v angel_n among_o man_n but_o indeed_o they_o be_v blind_a and_o ignorant_a and_o wonderful_o deceive_v by_o satan_n for_o all_o god_n servant_n in_o this_o life_n do_v continual_o bewail_v the_o corruption_n of_o their_o nature_n cry_v out_o against_o original_a sin_n that_o it_o hinder_v they_o in_o do_v the_o good_a thing_n which_o they_o will_v do_v and_o cause_v they_o to_o do_v that_o evil_n which_o they_o will_v not_o these_o man_n therefore_o that_o be_v never_o trouble_v with_o corruption_n but_o to_o their_o own_o think_v have_v grace_n at_o will_n be_v in_o a_o fearful_a case_n their_o mind_n be_v still_o blind_v and_o their_o heart_n harden_v they_o be_v dead_a in_o sin_n abide_v in_o darkness_n unto_o this_o hour_n and_o if_o they_o go_v thus_o on_o to_o death_n they_o shall_v find_v that_o sin_n will_v unvizor_n himself_o and_o then_o they_o shall_v know_v what_o sin_n mean_v and_o find_v the_o terror_n and_o feel_v the_o burden_n of_o it_o when_o it_o be_v too_o late_o like_o the_o foolish_a virgin_n that_o know_v what_o the_o want_n of_o oil_n mean_v when_o the_o door_n be_v shut_v second_o this_o show_n unto_o we_o what_o be_v the_o state_n and_o condition_n of_o the_o child_n of_o god_n in_o this_o life_n he_o be_v not_o here_o a_o saint_n feel_v no_o corruption_n perfect_o sanctify_v &_o free_v from_o all_o sin_n but_o such_o a_o one_o as_o feel_v the_o burden_n of_o corruption_n hinder_v he_o in_o his_o christian_a course_n under_o which_o he_o sigh_v and_o groan_n labour_v by_o all_o good_a mean_n to_o be_v disburden_v and_o to_o cast_v it_o off_o it_o be_v indeed_o a_o matter_n of_o great_a comfort_n for_o a_o man_n to_o feel_v god_n grace_n in_o himself_o as_o faith_n love_n repentance_n sanctification_n and_o such_o like_a but_o no_o child_n of_o god_n can_v always_o or_o alone_o feel_v the_o comfort_n of_o grace_n most_o common_o he_o shall_v be_v trouble_v with_o sin_n if_o he_o be_v god_n child_n now_o if_o feel_v it_o he_o dislike_v himself_o and_o strive_v to_o be_v ease_v of_o it_o this_o be_v a_o sure_a argument_n of_o his_o happy_a estate_n five_o this_o commandment_n to_o cast_v away_o sin_n that_o press_v down_o teach_v every_o child_n of_o god_n to_o labour_v earnest_o for_o the_o government_n and_o direction_n of_o god_n spirit_n for_o we_o have_v within_o we_o original_a corruption_n that_o like_o a_o arm_a man_n beset_v we_o about_o and_o hinder_v we_o in_o every_o good_a thing_n we_o take_v in_o hand_n we_o must_v therefore_o pray_v unto_o god_n daily_o that_o he_o will_v guide_v we_o by_o his_o good_a spirit_n for_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o corruption_n of_o our_o nature_n and_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o sin_n we_o shall_v utter_o fail_v unless_o god_n spirit_n govern_v we_o both_o in_o the_o thought_n of_o our_o heart_n in_o the_o word_n of_o our_o mouth_n and_o the_o action_n of_o our_o life_n this_o david_n know_v well_o and_o therefore_o pray_v to_o the_o lord_n for_o his_o good_a spirit_n to_o lead_v he_o into_o the_o land_n of_o righteousness_n psal._n 143.10_o last_o see_v we_o have_v this_o corruption_n of_o nature_n in_o we_o we_o must_v keep_v our_o heart_n with_o all_o diligence_n and_o set_v watch_n and_o ward_n about_o they_o so_o solomon_n say_v counterguard_v thy_o heart_n my_o son_n proverb_n 4.23_o why_o do_v solomon_n give_v this_o commandment_n sure_o for_o special_a cause_n for_o every_o man_n while_o he_o live_v on_o earth_n be_v compass_v about_o with_o his_o own_o corrupt_a nature_n which_o like_o a_o
at_o the_o punishment_n belong_v unto_o they_o how_o can_v this_o be_v but_o that_o howsoever_o he_o grant_n there_o be_v a_o god_n yet_o he_o be_v not_o persuade_v that_o god_n have_v power_n to_o revenge_v the_o contempt_n of_o his_o law_n &_o therefore_o he_o never_o fear_v nor_o shrink_v at_o the_o remembrance_n of_o he_o nor_o fly_v at_o all_o from_o his_o revenge_a hand_n but_o plod_v on_o in_o sin_n without_o fear_n three_o man_n by_o nature_n deny_v god_n justice_n for_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n be_v to_o wink_v at_o sin_n in_o no_o man_n but_o to_o condemn_v and_o punish_v it_o wheresoever_o he_o find_v it_o by_o inflict_v the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n upon_o it_o but_o man_n deny_v this_o justice_n for_o though_o he_o sin_n against_o god_n law_n and_o his_o conscience_n tell_v he_o of_o it_o yet_o he_o persuade_v himself_o there_o be_v no_o curse_n nor_o punishment_n due_a for_o it_o at_o least_o that_o he_o shall_v escape_v it_o nay_o though_o he_o see_v never_o so_o many_o before_o he_o punish_v for_o the_o same_o sin_n yet_o our_o nature_n be_v so_o blind_a and_o so_o corrupt_a he_o think_v for_o all_o that_o it_o shall_v not_o light_v on_o he_o and_o it_o be_v lamentable_a yet_o most_o true_a that_o the_o god_n of_o the_o ignorant_a man_n be_v a_o mere_a idol_n a_o god_n make_v all_o of_o mercy_n and_o which_o have_v no_o justice_n in_o he_o at_o all_o &_o their_o sin_n they_o careless_o lay_v all_o on_o christ_n and_o say_v god_n be_v merciful_a and_o in_o this_o conceit_n they_o care_v not_o how_o ignorant_o how_o loose_o how_o profane_o they_o live_v and_o their_o heart_n never_o have_v a_o reverend_a and_o awful_a thought_n of_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n these_o be_v the_o pitiful_a imagination_n that_o all_o man_n by_o nature_n have_v of_o god_n all_o these_o may_v be_v prove_v by_o evident_a scripture_n the_o first_o in_o the_o psalm_n where_o david_n bring_v in_o the_o wicked_a say_v to_o themselves_o god_n have_v forget_v he_o hide_v his_o face_n 13._o he_o will_v not_o see_v he_o will_v not_o regard_v the_o second_o by_o the_o blasphemy_n of_o rabsakeh_n who_o utter_v with_o his_o tongue_n that_o which_o all_o man_n heart_n think_v by_o nature_n etc._n what_o god_n can_v deliver_v you_o out_o of_o my_o hand_n the_o three_o isaiah_n prove_v apparent_o where_o he_o tell_v we_o that_o the_o wicked_a say_v we_o have_v make_v a_o covenant_n with_o death_n 28.15_o and_o with_o hell_n be_v we_o at_o agreement_n though_o a_o scourge_n run_v over_o and_o pass_v through_o it_o shall_v not_o come_v at_o us._n thus_o both_o scripture_n and_o plain_a demonstration_n prove_v this_o to_o be_v true_a that_o every_o man_n by_o nature_n deny_v god_n presence_n power_n and_o justice_n and_o therefore_o be_v by_o nature_n a_o plain_a atheist_n not_o believe_v that_o god_n be_v god_n indâ—ede_o now_o furthermore_o there_o be_v 4._o sort_n of_o people_n that_o put_v in_o practice_n this_o atheism_n first_o suâ—h_o as_o be_v not_o 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mark_v &_o hate_v worse_o than_o toad_n &_o adder_n and_o if_o such_o a_o one_o can_v be_v convict_v by_o any_o lawful_a evidence_n if_o ever_o heretic_n or_o traitor_n deserve_a death_n such_o a_o one_o deserve_v ten_o death_n as_o be_v a_o traitor_n to_o god_n to_o mankind_n and_o to_o nature_n herself_o and_o though_o these_o wretch_n say_v there_o be_v no_o god_n yet_o make_v they_o a_o god_n of_o themselves_o sacrifice_v all_o their_o affection_n to_o their_o pleasure_n and_o their_o profit_n the_o second_o sort_n be_v such_o as_o acknowledge_v and_o worship_v a_o god_n but_o a_o false_a god_n these_o have_v be_v in_o all_o country_n and_o in_o most_o age_n as_o history_n do_v show_v some_o worship_v the_o sun_n some_o the_o moon_n some_o star_n some_o beast_n bird_n fish_n some_o dead_a idol_n of_o wood_n or_o stone_n or_o metal_n and_o of_o this_o sort_n &_o no_o better_o be_v some_o in_o these_o church_n where_o the_o true_a god_n be_v worship_v for_o the_o apostle_n say_v 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