of this promise to the Church beyond all we have yet seen that many Scripture-truths now dark and abstruse shall be made so clear as shall even cause us to wonder at the grosse mistakes we once had thereof yea that after generations shall have a discovery and uptaking of some Prophecies now obscure which shall as far exceed us as this time doth go beyond former ages which comparatively we must say were very dark O! when that promise of the incalling of the Jewes shall once take place what a wonder will they be to themselves that their understanding shonld have been under such a vail when the truth shall be clear and evident to them in that day Will it not be a sweet and easy work for the godly to sort together the predictions of the Word and the events And truely there is much now wrapt up in Scripture Prophecyes not yet fulfilled which we may say in after times when the event shall unvail their meaning wil exceed yea confound all these comments many have had upon them 3. Is it not also clear that these Prophecies which of all the Scripture were most obscure and overclouded with dark figures and allegories concerning which there had been such mistake and hesitation by the Church so many perplexing queries have a peculiar respect to the last times And that then they shall be made plain and easy vvhen so notable a key as the event doth open them up such as these of the vvitnesses taking lyse and rising again Babylons fall and ruine Christs Reigning vvith his Saints a thousand Yeares vvhich novv are in some measure already cleared from their begun accomplishment beyond former times but vve vvait for a more full eommentary that tyme shall give upon the same 4. It is in the latter times that the glory of God in his truth and faithfulnes shall most eminently shine forth that is a part of the solemn congratulation of the Church upon Babylons fall Revelat. 15 ver 3. not only great and marvellous are thy works but just and true are thy wayes for truely in this stroke of the judgement of God and these remarkable providences concurring therevvith the fulfilling of the Scripture vvill be so plain and undenyable that we may say it vvill then dazel the eyes of men even greatest Atheists alarme the World yea very effectually contribute we have ground so to judge to that promised encrease of the Church and incoming of the Jewes when in Antichrists fall and ruine they shall see so convincing a seal put to one of the most considerable Prophecies of the Word in the accomplishment whereof much of the Prophetick part of the New Testament relating to the Churches state and her long tryal under Antichrists reign may be seen clearly verified 5. The Lord hath reserved his greatcst Works to the latter dayes wherein his judgments shall be manifest and the Word confirmed by such solemn convincing providences that men will not get them passed without a remark we are this day witnesses to many such and are looking what these times shall yet bring forth that the great and remarkable acts of the Lord must force the World to see a divine power and say lo there is an undoubted accomplishment of the Scripture 6. The Church in these last tymes hath peculiar advantagcs for understanding this truth of the Scriptures accomplishment which former ages had not First a great part thereof is now fulfilled that men may see with their eyes if they but know how to lay the Word and work of God together the Christian Church had in former times but dark glances at these great things which we have this day visibly transcribed in providence the promises were then travelling in birth of that which is now brought forth 2. Are we not mounted as it were on the shoulders of that experience and observation of former times which hath been transmitted to us and we must say upon that account the Church hath now a greater seal and confirmation of the truth then what it had in the dayes of the Prophets and the Apostles even when Christ was in the flesh 3. The Temple of God and Ark of his Testament is now opened in Heaven light more fully abounding and the meanes of knowledge And O! should not this be much our study who have a greater talent then former ages certainly this will be a sin of a deeper dye then in times of ignorance since we can be no strangers to this truth without shutting our eyes blinding the conscience doing violence to our light when the Lord doth give his People such solemn confirmations 7. I shall add is it not clearly soretold in that Dan. 12â— ver 4. that in the last times this will be one of the speciall exercises of the saints to enquire and make a diligent search concerning the Scripturs accomplishment For it s there said many shall run to and fro and knowledge shall be increased importing that this shall be much their study and cause a diligent fearch whereunto the great works of God in these times shall invite them and what should be the posture of the Godly in these dayes on whom the end of the World is come should it not be lyke the watchman in the last watch of the night who looketh oft what appearance there is from the east of the day breaking a serious enquery what of the Scripture is fulfilled whereby we may know on very clear grounds if the night be far spent the day at hand and that the coming of the Lord to judgement draweth near VIII This is a great and concerning duety for Christians to study this truth that they may have something more then repore how the Scripture hath a sure accomplishment and doth take place in the providences of the time wherein we live I must think strange that there is such a great help as this so near and yet we see it not nor do seriously ponder the same when the command is so express to observe the works of the Lord which for that end are shewed forth that men may enquire and read the faithfulnes of God therein yea that so great a truth which would bide the search of all the criticks of the World a truth wherein our blessednes through time and eternity lyeth should offer it self to our tryall and yet is so little known O who can dispense with the neglect of this duty by which we answer that solemn call and invitation of the works of God do honour him serve our generation are helpers to our own faith and are thereby helped to strengthen others yea are brought to see with our eyes and from experience what before was as a strange thing unto us Now to clear how much this is Christians duty to study a practical converse with the Word and to be serious observers of its accomplishment let us consider 1. We are thus helped to declare the works of the Lord and to give him the glory of his faithfulness
come he is come and thus chearfully went to death Thomas Hudson a choise Christian vvho suffered in Queen Maryes time vvhen at the stake did slip suddenly from under the chain to the astonishment of the People but not from fear of death but from the vvant of feeling of Christ vvhich made him full of heavines but after his turning aside that he had got his soul poured out to God he returned as one raised from death to life crying out Now I am strong and do not care what man can do and thus with much joy did yeeld up his spirit Likewise Annas Du Burg whom we before mentioned being through fear and discouragement drawen to recant had no rest in his spirit until he retracted the same and after did chearfully undergoe death with what marvellous resolution did that excellent man Doctor Cranmer put his right hand to the fire when he came to the stake and suffered to burn vvithout shrinking vvhich as he said he vvould punish for subscribing a recantation vvhich vvas so much thereafter his grief Last I must adde that marvellous joy and resolution vvhich the Saints in these late times did in their greatest sufferings shevv is very notoure and knovven to the World for their sufferinge vvas not in a corner and vve may say hath not come short of the primitive martyrs but did vvitnes the same spirit and povver accompanying them I cannot passe this in a general vvithout giving some touch amidst such a multitude of convincing instances let us hear blessed Bradfoord at the stake thus speak to his fellovv sufferer be of good comfort for we shall have this night a merry supper with the Lord. Latimer to Ridley â—â— shall this day light such a candle in England as I trust shall never be put out Mr Sanders I was in prisâ—n until I got â—â—â— prison and at the stake embracing cryes welcome the 〈◊〉 of Christ welcome everlasting life Doctor Ferrer to a gentleman vvho bemoaned his death and the painfulnes of it if â—ow see mee once stirr in the fire beleeve not my doctrine as did after appear for he stood vvithout moving in the midst of the flame Iohn Ardley if every haâ—r of my head â—ere a man it should suffer death in the faith I â—â— stand â—â— Elisabeth Folks embraceing the stake cryed fare well World fare well faith and hope and welcome love Robert aguires son vvhen at Lile in the Lovv countries he suffered vvith his father for the truth in the year 1556. did cry forth at the stake behold millions of Angels about us and the heaven opened to receive us after he had sometime fixed his eyes on heaven and vvhen the fire vvas kindled sayes to his father yet a very little and we shall enter into the heavenly mansion Mr. Tims an English minister in Queen Maryes dayes thus vvrits to his friends I am going to the Bishops colehouse but shall not be long there before I be carried up to my brethren vvho are gone to heaven before mee in a fiery chariot follovv yovv after mee vvhere yovv shall find mee singing merily at my jurneyes end holy holy holy Lord God of Sabaoth Algerius an Italian martyr thus vvrits from his prison a little before his death vvho vvould believe that in this dungeon I should finde a paradise so pleasant in a place of sorrow and death tranquillity and hope of life vvhere others vveep I rejoyce O hovv easy and svveet is his yoke and this he subscribs from that delectable orchard of the Leonine prison Guy de Bres the ringing of my chain hath been sweet â—â—sick in my eares all my former discourses were but as a blind wans of collours in respect of my present feeling O what a â—â—ious comforter is a good conscience The Lord Henry Otto a Bohemian vvho suffered in the late persecution said to the minister I vvas troubled but novv I feel a vvonfull refreshment O now I fear death no longer I will dye with joy and on the scaffold cryed out behold I see the heavens opened pointing with his hands at the place where others observed a certain brightnes that did dazel their eyes and thus dyed with great chearfulnes I shall but adde the last vvords of that holy and great Mr Wishart vvho thus spake amidst the fire this flame doth torment my body but no whit abate my spirits FOVRTH Witnes is these great and remarkable judgements of God which in these last times have befallon the adversaryes and persecutus of the Church who have been most notour for their opposition to the truth wherein we must say a divine hand hath been so discernable that ordinary observers could not passe the same without a remark but must acknowledge the righteous judgement of God that it cometh not by guesse and at an adventure but doth convincingly seal the word This is indeed a grave subject wherein we should be very serious and sober for the judgements of God are a great depth nor can we determine from events but in so far as they answer to the word it may sometime happen to wicked men according to the work of the righteous but on the other hand it is a sure truth that God is knowen by the judgement he executs and in every age doth point out sin to the World by remarkable strokes some great examples of judgement which as a beacon are set forth for men to observe and truely we may say these remarkable instances of the judgement of God since he begun to sound a retreat to his Church from Babylon are fan beyond other preceeding ages I would be spareing to repeat what of this kinde is published by others bâ—t that in speaking to this truth I cannot passe it in a generalâ— whilest there are so many instances wherein the Lord hath made himself knowen and these such a convincing seal and confimation of the truth and Protestant cause in these last times anent which and the following relations I dare with confidence say there is not any passage or matter of fact here set down without some clear and satisfying grounds as to the certainty thereof I shall first instance Charles the V. whose undertakings for many yeares were followed with successe untill once he set himselfe to persecute and oppresse the Church and bathed his sword in the blood of the Protestants with his cruel and unjust usage of the Duke of Saxony from which time his affaires begun visibly to decline he is forced to fly before Mauritius and seek a retreat in the furthest confines of the Empire and after broken with melancholy and discontent like another Dioclesian doth resign his empire and turn to a privat life Philip the II. of Spain one of the greatest persecutors of the Church in these last ages whose work was to root out the Protestant Religion in his dominions and therefore set on foot that horrid engine of the Inquisition yet at last finds all his essayes frustrat and after the losse of many millions
the enemyes of his Church if the dust of the ground should arise down they must come how many great designs of men hath this blessed design that the counsel of the Lord may stand crusht and broken so that their work and counsel hath been as the Spiders web when it stood crosse to this end the godly need not fear that he be not a present help in time of trouble for he will keep his word herein though the Earth should be overturned and the Mountaines cast into the midst of the Sea O who hath resisted his counsel What are all these vicissitudes and changes here in the World But making way for the Scriptures accomplishment with what desire doth he move towards this end So that as in Zachary 6 v. 8. the instruments by him appointed for executing his judgement and the threatnings of the Word it s said they have quieted his Spirit his decrees are mountaines of brasse which are unchangeable the thoughts of his heart take place in all generations therefore the Word Which is gone forth out of his mouth shall not return in vain but the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in his hand III. The accomplishment of the Scripture is a truth very clear and manifest whereof none can pretend ignorance if they doe not shut their eyes and force their own light from the fear of such a discovery for the obstruction doth notâ—ly in the darknes of the obiect or that men cannot see this since we have it so clearly held forth in great and legible charecters nay we must say the cause is culpable there is much of the will in it which renders such ane ignorance without excuse O that this should be so little lookt after a matter of such near and weighty concernment when there needs not an other demonstration but come and see the works of the Lord through the earth for he hath here so far condiscended to his People to bring the truth near that they even feel and grip the same yea doth in a manner say to every one as to Thomas put in your bands touch the Word and truth thereof and be no longer faithles tast but and see that the Lord is good and that he is true in what he hath spoken We are indeed to look after a more clear and full discovery of this truth the nearer the Church is to the end of time there is a labyrinth as it were of turnings and windings through which we may see the Word oft brought so as we lose sight thereof and are ready to stagger anent its performance but it s as true that the most eminent confirmations the saints ever had of this truth hath been after greatest shakings thereanent yea the Lord hath in all ages so visibly sealed his Word by its performance that we may say can he be a Christian and a stranger to this in his experience and a serious on-looker on providence and the dispensations of the time wherein he lives and a stranger to it in his observation yea can any be so wholly brutish not to discern a thing so clear that oftimes these who run may read But to speak a little more to this I shall here point at some things that may shew how manifest this truth is 1. Is it not very clear which we see very day brings to light A truth so conspicuous both in Gods ordinary way with his Church and in the several steps and passages of a Christians life For these mercies which bring the Word and promise to passe are new every morning and cry aloud if we could hear great is his faithfulnesâ— this is indeed tryed and needs there more to convince a blind man that his sight is restored to him but that he certainly seeth sure they never wanted confirmations here who do but serviously seek to be confirmed 2. Is it not a clear truth which not onely is found upon the exactest tryal but is witnessed by such who ever tryed it in their most pressing straits and extremity for it s in the darkest night this truth hath most brightly shined and these more remarkable ventorious acts of faith have they not still brought forth most convincing experiments thereanent We may say there is none can give a better account of the performance of the Word then these who against hope have beleeved in hope that this never made them ashamed 3. Is it not also clear whereof there are such solemn extraordinary comfirmations in all ages For that his name is near his wondrous works declare I am sure no time could ever deny its witnes how by great convincing providences both of judgement and mercy it hath been so sealed as hath forced Atheists to keep Silence no time wherein the Church had not cause to erect a pillar and engrave thereon We have seen with our eyes the great and wondrous works of the Lord by which he hath witnessed the truth of his Word 4. Is it not a manifest truth which even in the most strange and dark footsteps of providence so clearly shineth forth these which at the first look are an astonishment and hard to be understood yet after most clearly verify the Scripture that whilst the Lords way goeth out of our sight yea out of the ordinary road of his working through a labyrinth of turnings and crosse dispensations yet at length it doth evidently clear and dissintangle it selfe which men may oft see break forth as the sun out of a dark cloud that shiueth the more brightly the more it was obscured 5. Is it not very clear which can be demonstrated by such visible effects in these great changes of the World For the fulfilling of the Scripture is not a thing hid in a corner but oft published in the house tops that men may see legibly written upon Kingdomes and nations the desolate ruines and devaâ—â—ation of cities houses great and fair which are made to be without inhabitants so as these who go by may clearly read the cause and bear that witnes Lothereis sin visibly punished according to the Word 6. How clear is this which we have so evidently drawen out and acted over in a Christian walk For what else is the spiritual conversation of such these visible effects and evidences of the grace of God all along a Christians way but a visible convincing witnes to the performance of the word Hath not such a very audible Echo and resound to that which is the great drift and Scope of the Scripture where men may see the bible turnd over into a practical history written forth and acted on the heart and conversation of the saints as on a stage or theatre the Word living speaking moving and clearly diffusing it selfe through all the veines as it were and conduits of a Christians life so that if the truth and reality of the grace of God be a thing manifest and unquestionable we must also see therein the reall performance of the Scripture 7. I shall adde we may
this also while they have found 1. That in one day they may t adventure on that which through most of their life they have not win above but hath made them go with their back bowed down to the grave that their giving the Lords work a wrong touch is one of these things which doth scarcely leave them all their time but beyond other sins they have found this still come up with a bitter and heavy reflexion yea in the evening of their life they have found this so sore on their spirit that it could not ly hid or silent but they were forced to witnes their sense of it before the World ere they could win to any ease 2. That this the Lord doth usually meet with some sharp and publick reproof even before men that though he pardon his People yea give some sensible intimation thereof to their souls yet he hath not past them as to some visible mark of his displeasure because of such a thing 3. They see that a crooked and uncleanly way proves not the mean of extricating them out of trouble but their straits have been made to grow therewith yea they have found that which they eshewed in Gods way hath more sadly trysted them in another rod and that there is a thick dreg in the bottom of the cup which maketh it worse to drink thereof at the close then at the beginning 4. That it is not easy to make a stand in turning aside from the way of God when once they are engadged and that a retrograd motion is very violent and yeelding in a little will bring with it some necessity of going further as a judicial stroke 5. That sitting of some clear opportunity to give a testimony for the truth when called thereto hath turned to be their judgement that they should not have further accesse or be made usefull that vvay a thing truely obvious to such as are vvise to observe the judgements of God in their time yea likevvise that publick backsliding doth oft visibly vvear men out of personal tendernes FIFTH Unsubduednesse of spirit and want of mortification to outward things the Word doth clearly threaten and hold out its hazard the accomplishment vvhereof Christians experience can vvitness Rom. 8 ver 6 7. 1. That God hath oft turned their idoll to be their crosse put a mark of his jealousy on their dearest things vvhen once they put them in his room yea frequent observation of the Lords vvay both vvith themselves and others doth shevv if they vvould be quite of a thing they may set their heart immoderatly on it such eagernes and exorbitancy of affection being a sure presage it shall either be their judgment or sorrow or cease to be 2. That outward things did never yeeld lesse then whilest they prest them most that when they are eager in pursuit of the World and satisfaction there spirits are sensibly hurried with many perturbations so that they must say that which keepeth them from enjoying of God doth also hinder the comfortable enjoying of themselves 3. They have founded that slow advance in the work of mortification hath at last doubled their smart and been the procuring cause of some very sharp cure when the discase did come to that height that a small and ordinary potion could not do the turn 4. That immoderat desire and pressing after an outward thing they have sometime got answered but therevvith a sharp reproof from the Lord yea usually have found small satisfaction in their enjoying that about vvhich they vvere so unsober in their enjoying that about vvhich they vvere so unsober in their pursuit give children or else I dye said Rachel she got children and she dyed in bringing one of them forth 5. Their experience can also vvitnes hovv overcaring anxiety hath oft caused things thrive worse under their hand vvhilest they found never a more satisfying issue in a particular then by a quiet submissive dependence on the Lord for the same SIXTH The doing violence to light and sinning vvith a vvitnes against the conscience as it is clearly threatned in the Word so likevvayes the sad effects thereof hath been clearly vvitnessed in all ages 1. What a direct tendency this hath to the further darkning of their light and to a judicial hardning and that reproofs not entertained do usually become lesse frequent yea lesse pungent and searching their heart then doth not so easily smite them and put the tear in their eye as sometimes a word or secret rebuke of the conscience would have done so as they can now digest greater things who would sometiumes have stood at that which comparatively was very small 2. That when they would not read their bosom distemper which both by the word adn conscience was pointed out others have got leave to read the same written on their fore head and the shifting of discovered guilt and of all serious endeavour to get the quarrel taken up in secret betwixt God and them hath brought the matter at last to some publick hearing even before the generation 3. That their darkening of their light upon some privat interest while they would again and again enquire if such a thing be warrantable concerning which the Lord had once cleared their minde is a most perillous thing yea hath got an answer according to the idol of their heart and their choice made to be their judgement I shall but adde what bitter and sad experience can tell how dreadful it is to give the conscieuce a wramp which is more easily hurt then healed that deliberat adventuring on the occasion of a temptation when they would goe to the high priests hall without warrant or a calling hath cost them dear and they have found that bold sinning doth afterward make faint beleeving SECOND ARGUMENT SECOND Argument to demonstrat the accomplishment of the scripture is this that not only Christian experience but the observation of the Church and people of God doth in all ages bear witnes thereto how the Lords way in these providences both of mercy and judgement about the Church amidst the various changes of her condition yea in the most strange things which fall out in the world doth convincingly answer the word and verify the same It is indeed undenyable that the scripture of God as it is written to the personal case of his people and doth in their experience take place so is there a part of it in a peculiar way directed to the Church the fulfilling whereof in the providences and events of the time should be the subject of our observation and would singularly help to confirm our faith of the truth thereof For prosecuting this argument I would touch it a litle in these three branches 1. How these General promises which belong to the chureh universal and concern her in all ages have an accomplishment 2. How these threatnings also of the word which doe not only concern the church but have a respect to her adversaryes are certainly fulfilled take
undoubted â—eâ—dency to bring forth the Churches good as though they â—d intentionally act for the same there will indeed one day be a more clear and marvellous discovery of this when the Lord hath perfected his work and the mystery of God is finished the Church brought safe to the harbour then shall it be fully manifest to what end all these stormâ—s and cross winds in the counsels and designes of men wee these things which in the time could not be understood but seemed perplexed and strange did really worke foâ—the Churches good for then men will see with their eyes afull performance of the word yet we must say even here in every age amidst the various changes of the Churches case this hath so clear an outmaking that there is no serious observer of providence but may bear winess to it 1. That not only the Churches good but ever her greatest good hath most clearly had its rise and been brought forth out of the greatest mischiefs and hurts intended against her that if we search the Scripture and will turn over these after records of the Churches condition we shall there find the most remarkable attempts and plots such as Pharaohs last essay to destroy the Isiaelites Hamans great design to root out the seed of the Jewes that great Masterplot Sathan once had on â—oot to crush the Gospel and the Christian Church by crucifying her head yea in these last times Antichrists killing the witnesses have all as if really intended by the instruments as well as the first mover brought forth the Churches greatest good so as the after-mercy and outgate hath carried some visible proportion to her tryal and to the greatnes of her adversaryes design 2. It may be also clear if we but trace back these memorable changesâ— which have been up and down the earth how direct a tendency they have had to this end did not the bringing down that great image of the Monarchies witness this We finde Nebuchadnezar raised up as a rod to the Church and Cyrus for a deliverer we may see the Persian and Grecian Monarchies brought down to make way for the setting up of the Messias his Kingdome Antiochus must stand up a little for a sharp tryal and his downfal give the Church a new breathing and hold forth to after ages a remarkable monument of the judgement of God against his enemyes Peaceable Augustus most tryst with his time in whose dayes shall be aboundance of peace we finde a Titus set up to execute the judgement of God on the Jewes to make way for a further enlargement to the â—gentil Church an Nero and Domitian to help forward the Churches suffering and a Constantine to give her some rest after so long and sore an assault and at last the Roman empire mouldred down for Antichrists upsetting to accomplish what did remain of the sufferings of Christ in his Church by that adversary 3. We may oft see a very strange tryst and concurrence of things how instruments act to bring about the Lords end and advance his Churches interest even while each one doth most vigorously drive their own proper end and design which sheweth there is surely a living spirit in the wheels that ordereth these motions a supream and first mover that can thus determine them whither they will or not to serve his end and the Churches good when they most directly intend the contrary 4. We have seen how in mens plotting the ruine of the Church there is oft an unseen hand determining their judgement and inclination to fall upon that very way then which we would think nothing could have been more direct for her good and their own ruine how an Hushai hath been sent in or some have been stirred up amongst themselves upon their own interest to break the pernicious counsels and designs of others 5. We have also seen the personal quarrels of the Churches enemyes among themselves brought to such an height and to tryst so seasonably that onlookers might clearly perceive that it hath been from the Lord a judgement for their rage and violence against his poor oppressed People 6. We have seen the Churches enemies raised to a strange height all advantages favouring them until their plot and mine hath been ripe for springing and lo at that very choke something unexpected hath fallen out which did turn their former successe to their further ruine yea disappoint all this the World is ready to call some fata and malevolent conjunction which cannot be resisted and what is this in effect but the witness of mens conscience to a divine hand 7. Have we not seen some sore dash and overthrow in the Church bring forth her good and a more full victory when visible helpe and meanes have been taken out of the way that something above meanes might be seen in her condition even in that day when all hath been given for lost yea truths loseing the day upon the field bring forth her triumph on the scaffold and at the stake 8. We have seen most despicable and ordinary things made subservient for some great piece of the Lords work a very small thing made the first rise of strange revolutions that remarkable changes have been oft lying in the bosome of common providence yea truely we finde both Scripture and the observation of after ages witness that the Churches deliverance and outgate did almost never come that way by such a method and meanes as shee had most expected the same and that Gods time of working may be oft very contrary to our time of expecting I shall only add is it not oft seen which I am sure all ages can witness how mens endeavours to darken the truth by errour hath been an effectual meanes for its further clearing That the growing of a tryal a violent and sore exacting upon the Church hath kindly wrought towards her outgate and enlargement her meat hath been oft brought even out of the eater by midses most destructive thereto and a svvord must pierce the Churches heart that the thoughts of many may be discovered a time of persecution must help to cure the divisions amongst the godly and bring them together in the furnace vvhich prosperity could not doe yea it is oft seen vvhich former ages can also vvitness that the very undoing of the Church hath been Gods blest vvay to keep her from being undone THE SECOND BRANCH DOth concern these Scripture threatnings which are held forth in the word with a respect to the visible Church and against a people professing the Gospel that no priviledges they have above others shall exeem them from judgment yea and from very sad strokes he hath knowen them above the rest of the World he will contend with them most severely because of sin and such particular evils as we find the Word threatneth I touched a little some Scripture-threatnings in the preceeding argument as concerned Christians in their privat experience what I here intend is to point at this truth as it
is written in the providences and judgments of every time to mens observation how judgments from the Lord which point as with the finger at the abounding sins of that time do reach a land and particular Churches according to the threatnings of the word this is indeed manifest that the greatest promises made to a people we find backed with saddest threatnings and accordingly we find the greatest monuments of wrath have usually been set up where sometimes the largest offers of the Gospel were yea that the anger of the Lord may draw so deep against a people professing his name as to make their land desolate and the high wayes thereof mourn for in this precinct of the Church doth both judgement and mercy most eminently shine forth and the Lords way there doth differ from that he hath with any other people Now to clear this grave truth a litle how these threatnings of the word against a nation and people because of sin are also verifyed in their judgements I shall touch a few instances that are most known and obvious where we may lay the word and observation of the Church together and see how they answer one the other First we find the Threatnings of the word do point at the time of a peoples judgement 1 Thes 2 ver 16. Rev. 14 ver 15 18. That when they fill up the measure of their sin and their cup is full the Lord will not then defer the execution until the cup of the Amorites was full he did let them alone and we find an answer deferred to the cry of the souls under the altar for avenging their blood on Antichrist because that accursed party had yet more to do against the Church and the Saints more to suffer under their hand Now to witness the accomplishment of this let us but consider what in all times may be observed First that there is an ordinary grouth and height of sin which a land cometh to before destruction some national and universal spreading thereof prodigious outbreakings the utter rejecting of reproof which shew that a peoples case must then be on some turn yea that strange and unusuall sinning useth to go before some strange stroke 2. Before judgement come is it not seen how the sin of a people hath become so daring that it hath had a loud cry yea their case hath been such as did justify the Lords procedure against them even in the conscience of all lookers that he did it not without much cause 3. Is it not easy for such as are wise to know the times to see night coming on a land when sin is at some dreadful height by considering the word and the Lords usual way with a people in such a case Yea hath there not then been some special forwarnings a more then ordinary impression of judgement upon the spirits of the godly the hiding of many of them in the grave which as threatning presages hath shewed the near approache of a stroke 4. There doth not usually want even some Noah or Jonas the Ministers of God sent forth to threaten who as watchmen upon the wall are discerning hazard at distance yea with an observable pressure then upon their spirit and a more then ordinary aggreement amongst themselves to cry out and give the people warning when the time of judgement hath been drawing near 2. It is clear there are some special evils and sins of a time which we find the word most dreadfully doth threaten yea in a peculiar way it doth put a mark upon them that though the Lord should passe by many infirmities in a Church and people professing his name yet for such and such sins as we find in Amos 1 ver 2. he will not turn away the punishment thereof but hath solemnly declared by his truth and faithfulnes that these shall not passe without some visible mark even before the world of his anger now in this the Scripture is clear and lets us see there are some sins more particularly threatned some land destroying sins that have as it were the marke set on them which doe especially provoke the holy indignation and jealousie of God such as idolatry corrupting the Worship of God Perjury and Covenant-breaking shall they break my Covenant and escape saith the Lord Ezek. 17 ver 15. also departing from God and his way for this the land shall be desolat as in Ierem. 9 ver 12 13. yea blood guiltines which the earth shall not cover and for which the sword shall not depart even from the house family of David 2 Sam. 12 10. Now to evidence the accomplishment hereof I shall point at somethings most obvious to the observation of every time how terribly the Lord useth to plead for such things and by some exemplary stroke and judgement point them out as we find them particularly set by themselves in the word and threatnings thereof First how in these sins thus marked men may see how their judgements use not wholly to be deferred to another world but though much is oft passed here and laid over to that last and great judgement yet upon such sins the Lord hath put some mark of his displeasure even in this life 2. That for these he useth to contend before the sun and in the view of men his judgements are indeed oft secret and doe consume as a moth but upon such sins we may frequently see some publick and visible stroke is made to follow that the world cannot passe without a remark 3. That the Lord also useth to be a very swift witness against such evils for as we find the oppression of the Church hath a lowd cry and the blood of the saints a how long it is also seen these forementioned sins do much hasten judgement so as seldome that generation passeth away without some witness thereto it is rarely found that some great revolt of a people from God and breaking Covenant with him doth ly long over unpunished nor doth the hoary head of the violent and bloody man go oft to the grave in peace 4. That these sins use to be followed with some very dreadful and eminent stroke they have made the land desolat their cityes sometime wast and a ruinous heap yea houses great and fair to be without inhabitans so as men have with astonishment enquired why is all this comed to passe and it was easy to answer even for such and such evils hath the Lord done this according to his word 5. That a divine hand useth to be most discernable in the punishments of such sins because of a very clear resemblance betwixt them and the stroke which hath forced their own conscience as well as of onlookers to confesse the Righteousnes of God therein 6. That the Lord will put some mark of his anger on the choisest of his servants for any accession to such sins these to whom he hath given their soul for a prey have yet got a sore outward stroke upon such an account which hath
followed them to the grave for this the sword shall not depart from Davids house Idolatry rent the Kingdome from the posterity of Salomon Jonas shall not escape for his rebellion yea God was wroth with Moses and no intreaty shall hinder his dying in the wildernes I may adde hath not the Lords controversy on this ground even reached their posterity which may shew that these threatnings are sad earnest and such sins are not more particularly pointed at in the word then they have been in after ages made exemplary in judgement 3. A peoples lukwarmenesse their slighting of the gospel and not receiving the love of the truth we find sadly threatned in the word Rev. 3 ver 15 16. 2 Thess 2 ver 10 11. and truely we must say they have not fallen to the ground in any age without an accomplishment as frequent observation can witness First how a peoples entring upon a Religious way their pursuing a form of reformation and not through for God therein but on carnal grounds hath thus put them in a worse condition then before for truely mens hypocrisy in going about a good work doth threaten more then the performance thereof doth promise Jehu got a temporal reward but his posterity must at length reckon for all the blood of Jezreel 2. That no people use to be furder from getting good of the gospel then such who have been under most clear and greatest convictions so as it is found there is oft more accesse to gain amongst the savages then these who have sit their day while the tide did flow yea ministers have found most discouragement to labour in these parts where the word hath been long preached with power 3. It is seen how light not improved will turn a People more grosse and is usually followed with some remarkable grouth in sin that the more the word doth put a restraint on mens corruption the more it rageth so as it may be observed what a very black dy and collour the powerful preaching of the Gospel hath put upon a People as a visible mark of judgement on such who profit not thereby 4. Is it notseen how mens formality in the matters of God hath been oft punished even with the taking away of the forme Yea that seldome errour and delusion doth want a harvest amongst a People who receive not the truth in love 5. Hath not slighting of the Gospel been at last followed with some visible restraint and inhibition both upon the ordinances and dispensers thereof a judicial withdrawing of the Spirit as to the work of conversion and conviction whereby the Lord doth plainly cease to be a reprover to such yea even saith bind up the Law and seal the Testimony 4. The Word doth also threaten carnal Security a disease whereof the Church is oft in great hazard yea we find it holds forth a certain connexion betwixt spiritual judgements upon a People and some outward strokes to follow thereon that these who are under that first woe and plague upon their spirits are then near to some judgement upon their persons and may expect a sharp wakening in hearing they shall not understand c. but the close is until the cities be consumd without inhabitants and there be an utter desolation yea we find judgement doth begin as a moth in that 5. of Hos. but in the 14. ver it doth turn at last to be a lyon We may truely say the fulfilling of this hath in all ages of the Church been obvious 1. That as the first part of the Churches deliverance is usually spiritual so it is found the first step of judgement and the execution thereof against a People hath been upon their spirits that serious discerners of the time might know that the night was fast coming on and some sad outward stroke on a land by the abounding of spiritual judgements 2. It is clear themost dreadful strokes that ever come on a particular Church doe usually find it in such a case judicially hardned and under many warnings plagued with security thus did the floud finde the old World and before that desolating stroke on Jerusalem by the Romans were not the Jewes in such a case Salvain can tell how it was with the African Churches before that dreadful inundation of the Gothes and Vandals yea the Churches records in all ages doe witness that before any sad stroke or persecution came upon a People a deep sleep and lethargie hath been previous thereto gray haires might have been seen upon them and the Word doth even shew that this will be the last disease whereof the Church shall be sick before the great day of the Lord. 3. It is also seen how spiritual judgements when they grow upon a people make great dispatch and do quickly ripen for some further stroke that when men have run down their conscience and are past reproof of the word going on from evil to worse the case cometh then to be clear and ready for the finall discussion of the processe 5. The word doth denounce woe against the troublers of the Church and these who are her persecutors that the Lord shall recompence tribulation to such and plead with her oppressours the accomplishment whereof hath been truely manifest yea to the observation even of the world Is 10 5. 2 Thess 1 ver 6. 1. That eminent oppressours of the Church have seldome gone out of the World without some remark of divine anger upon them surely if there were a record of such instances that in every age hath been conspicuous men should be forced to see and say that the most noted enemyes and persecutors of the saints have been also the most convincing and noted examples of judgement in the time 2. That the Churches suffering useth to go before a day of vengeance on the instruments thereof we find Jehu got an outward reward for executâ—ng the judgement of God on his enemyes but as for these men who have been the rod of the Church it hath been seen that they have not long wanted some scourge as sore upon themselves as they have been to his People and that at last these have payed dear-for their service 3. We may see how this also doth help to finish the contraversy of God with men and their houses that for this he hath taken many away in the midst of their dayes and made them cease to be who would not cease to trouble the Church while they had a being yea that He hath taken them in his own hand whom men could not reach and made their down-casting in the midst of themselves 6. Doth not the Scripture threaten carnal confidence in a People the putting of their trust in man or in any outward instruments Ier. 17 ver 5 6. Is 30 ver 16 17. to clear the accomplishment whereof let us but compare the word and the Churches observation together and we will find 1. That outward meanes have never more miscaried then when most promising and when there was greatest
witness of the conscience and authority thereof in every man which they cannot possibly decline O doe not these vvitness that from some great height poor man hath fallen 2. Doth not the present appearance of mans nature clearly shevv he his fallen into some dreadful disease that it is surely overspread with some horrid leprosie and contagion the symptomes whereof now are most discernable O what an exorbitancy doth appear in his desires with what contrary tydes is he hurried still at jar with his present lot his reason and will once in a sweet league are now at warr betwixt which he is oft rent in pieces as one betwixt wilde horses how is he now restless in an unreasonable pursuit he laboureth in the fire and for a shadow yea what doe these tumults and commotions of the earth mean men upon the smallest account sheathing their swords in others bowels homo homini Lupus ruptures in familyes unsatiable in revenge and the earth so oft in an uproar as a raging sea O doe not these too visibly witness what a dreadful disorder and perturbation there must be within impetuous boyling of mans lusts so that here we may see a very manifest rupture and breath of building once well knitt and framed 3. I would ask wherein mans true advantage and excellency above others of the creatures can be seen if not with some respect to that he once was and that blessed restauration by grace for his knowledge doth oft serve but to increase his sorrow to shew the good he wanteth and the evil he is subject to is there any of the creatures subject to such outward misery and pain to so many diseases as poor man now is Yea as to a sensual life may we not say the beasts have even some preference or are these so unruely do they so much go out of their bounds and station which the many lawes made for man in the world with the convincing necessity thereof can wittness we see also that fore travel is appointed to man at hovv much toile he is for an outvvard subsistance hovv he doth oft sovv and not reap the beasts vvithdravv from the yoke these over vvhom he had dominion ready to assault him hovv vvomen bring forth their children in sorrovv the men are attended vvith fear their life oft made bitter vvith care and labour yea as men increase in the vvorld their care and discontent increasing therevvith but besides all is he not in the greatest slavery of all the creatures through the violence of his lusts that make him pursue the baite though he knovveth it vvill undoe him vvhile his corruption doth oft like a strong man bind him in fetters and his flesh imperiously drag him at its heels O may vve not say vvas poor man thus formed at the beginning or raised so far above the rest of the creatures only to make him the more miserable for truely if a vive portraicture could be dravvn of sinful depraved nature there is none so grosse but should-abhorr yea be affrighted to see that in the third person vvith vvhich alace they so friendly comply in themselves SECOND That so great a change is truely wrought upon men in conversion as the scripture doth promise and hold forth Ioh. 3 ver 3 6. Eph. 2 ver 1 5. Coloss 3 ver 1 2. vvherein some thing above nature even the marvellous povver of the grace of God may be seen is a trnth Iam sure knovvn and undenyable to the vvorld yea the greatest mockers at religion must confesse can be no delusion but is indeed real and certain upon these follovving grounds 1. That the most grosse vvho in their practice have been notourly profane in the place vvherein they lived it hath been seen that grace hath reached them and thus the Leopard hath been made to change his spots and such vvho vvere accustomed to do evil have learned to doe vvell O! Doe not many famous instances vvitnes this in every age 2. That also men most principled in their judgement against the vvay of God who were wont to deride holines as fancie even on such so great a change hath been wrought as hath made the world to wonder but then they were forced to lay doun their prejudice yea to wonder at themselves how they could stand before the truth so long whereof they have got such an impression sure Atheists must grant there have been as profest Atheists as themselves who have been made eminent examples of grace 3. That such even in the height of their wickednes like Paul breathing out cruelty and of late Vergerius while he was writing against the truth grace hath sometimes reached them it hath been found that of Christs greatest enemyes some have thus fallen upon their high places before the power of the word some such trophees of the gospels conquest have been conspicuous in every age yea it is oft seen that some remarkable height in sin hath proved an evident Crisis and turn in mens condition either to judgement or mercy 4. That some of the most eminent adversaries of the truth have through grace been made eminently useful instruments in the Church the world cannot deny that there have not been choiser vessels of honour more zealous for the Lord in their time then such who were once most violent in their opposition 5. That such whom the world did reckon most wise and discerning yea that did want no judgement to know the value of outward things as well as others grace hath reached can the Atheists object do any of the rulers or Rabbies believe in Christ or follow that way when it is so clear that not more wise learned and judicious even themselves being judges have been in their time then some vvho are most serious in the matter of Religion 6. Hath not this change been made discernable upon the simple the most stupid and dull yea upon some such as a natural incapacity might have obstructed the worke if something above nature had not carried it on vvhich may be also manifest by some change even on their understanding to shew that this can make the simple wise and in the way of holines the way-faring man though fool shall not err 7. That by a very improbable mean the word and that sometimes by weakest instruments we see this great change hath been wrought and it is remarkable how litle of the work of conversion did follow the putting forth of miracles in the primitive times but by the simplicity of the preached gospel much more for indeed the conversion of a soul and such a change is it selfe some way a miracle 8. That they are not a few on whom this change hath been wrought is undenyable and truely besides these ordinary proofs I think it is a great want there should not be some more special record by the Church of these illustrious and eminent instances of the grace of God which have been in such an age as well as remarkable instances of judgment 9. Men
of duty that its surely good to draw near to him and in the close of their life can from many remarkable and convincing providences declare the truth and faithfulnes of God and truely whilst I speak here of the Christians experience I think its sad and a great short coming that there is not a more serious improvement of it for this end which is a very concerning duty on such who have tasted that the Lord is gracious O what an excellent addition would this be to their testament when they are to leave the World to leave a testimony behinde them to the faithfulnes of God in his Word and promise and thus put their seale to the same from what they have oft proven by sure experience for this should prove a singular help to strengthen others and spread abroad the fame and good report of religion yea thus one generation should declare the works of the Lord to another and transmit the memory of his goodnes to succeding ages 7. This is something which not only the Christians experience doth witnes and in every time take place but hath also a peculiar reference to these ages and periods of times wherein such particular truths should have their accomplishment for its true that the Prophets of old did not onely in their predictions hold forth in general the truth and certainty of these things which should fall out but they also inquired and searched diligently anent the time to what or what manner of time the Spirit by them did point at 1 Pet. 1 11. For it s truely clear that a piece of the Word was under the Law to have its peculiar accomplishment that part of it also under the Messias Kingdome in the dayes of the gospel should be fulfilled and we find a very concerning part thereof belongs to thir latter times and there is betwixt such periods of time and revolution of the Churches case and the bringing forth of such a piece of the Scripture to a performance a very certain and undoubted connection It s true we do not yet well understand which will be one of the last manifestations the Church shall have at the end of time when the mystery of God is finished how to sort the event exactly to the Word but it is sure and were worthy of our study and observation how every age hath something of the Scripture peculiar thereto yea carrieth forward the Lords work and design a further step may we not see how one age fulfilleth such a piece of the Churches sufferings appointed for her and puts some great tryal and sad persecution over her head which she was to meet with whilst an other age carrieth her thorow an other change and giveth her a time of rest and breathing how such a time bringeth Antichrist fordward to his hight and such a following age begins the turn of the Churches case yea every several period and revolution of time still addeth something to that excellent history of the Word and providence which we have since the beginning and bringeth forth something further into the world of the Lords counsel and design about his Church 8. The accomplishing of the Scripture is such a thing we are to look after in a special way here which concerns this militant and traveling condition of the Church for if the Scriptures were once fully accomplished and the great mystery of God therein finished there were then nothing more to doe his work of providence were at an end and time should be no more this is something that is not here perfected at once but is still gradually carrying on and then shall be compleat at the resurrection of the just and second coming of the Lord which is the last part of Canonick Scripture to be made out when both his work and his word and time shall be all finished together but whill the sainets are yet by the way they have the written word and all these pretious promises therein for present use and encouragement for that is its proper work to take them safe thorow this labyrinth of the world and when it hath brought them to land it hath no more to doe there will be then no more need for a Christian to goe to a promise and adventure upon it we shall then no more watch with the watchmen in a dark and stormy night and hope for the breaking of the day faith then shall not be at a stand how such a word shall be made out because of invincible difficulties in its way no then it hath done its worke and that which is written shall be swallowed up in that which is seen and enjoyed all the streames of our encouragement will then lose themselves in a greater depth O then it s finished and done what all the promises prophecies and threatnings of the Word was bringing forth and then no more need of something as a pledge and earnest in hand to them who have the full possession of the inheritance under whose feet the God of peace hath trod Satan and all their enemies 9. I shall adde this the accomplishment of the Scripture is something which is not onely demonstrat to a Christian by sensible influences and Gods Secret working with his Spirit but is made out to the observation of men in the way of providence and not onely witnessed by that internal evidence of the Spirit but by an external testimony which both rationally holdeth this out to the judgement and sensibly to the sight and experience and this is the strongest and most full of all outward evidences since the world must shut their eyes if they do not see it and a Christian must deny what he both seeth and feeleth if he deny a witnes to this II. We would consider the accomplishment of the Scripture as that which is the Lords peculiar work and design in the World and that great bussines which is upon the wheels of providence amidst the various changes and revolutions which are here within time for bringing about whereof the blessed thoughts of his heart are fixed and unalterable This is indeed a grave and serious truth worthy to be more noticed and laid to heart by men that the glorious providence of God which goeth throughout the earth and doth particularly reach all things which come to passe the smallest as well as the greatest intrests of men in all these doth move certainly and infallibly for the accomplishing of the Scripture which is that great thing God hath before his eyes for it is no personal intrests of men how great so ever they be that can answer this end it is something beyond the Setting up of Kings or overturning Kingdomes and nations that he doth minde amidst these varions changes which are in the World it s some greater thing then that which we most notice the Lord thereby designes how such a party is advanced and others brought low for these things come within the reach of his care and providence in so far as the
clearly see how one piece of the Scripture is nothing else but the punctual fulfilling and accomplishment of the other how that which was shadowed out by dark types under the Law and held in a Propheâ—y through the Old Testament is written before our eyes in a plain and real history in the New Testament and that the gospel is only a perfecting of the Law and the Prophets IV. Though its very manifest and by undenyable proofs can be demonstrated that the Scripture hath a real accomplishment and doth certainly take place in the constant course of providence here in the World that I am sure if men do not darken themselves they can be no strangers to such a thing yet we must say This truth which most nearly concerns us is to the most of men even such who seem to give a large assent to the Word a mystery and dark riddle There are few who doe but enquire if there be such a thing if the promises and threatnings have indeed a certain outmaking few doe seriously ponder the providences of God in which the truth and faithfulnes of the Word shineth forth that they may thereby be furder confirmed we see that to many alace too many the great concernments of the Law and everlasting happines are a trivial and an impertinent bussinesse this is a truth the World doth passe without regarding such as sport at Religion when they come to earnest here dare not stand before this discovery it concerneth them much to reconcile their principles with their practice their fear begetteth hatred and both put their wit and invention on the rack how to dispute away any remander of a conscience to imprison their light and under the pretext of reason run down godliness and the absolute necessity thereof yea besids doth not sensuality wherein many wallow and steep themselves so dull and droun the soul put such ane interposition of the Earth betwixt them and this truth as wholly darkens it And oh how sad that many having a large profession to be Christians scarce ever knew what it is to put the Word to ane essay and tryal in the concernments of their life to have their light followed with experience wherein the very truth and reality of Religion lieth To clear this I shall hold forth some things which may shew how little this truth of the Scriptures accomplishment is known or studied by the most of men 1. The abounding of so much Atheisme that there are so many who not onely disclaim the practice of that Religion they seem to profess but do state themselves in most direct opposition to the rules and principles thereof these to whom the Scripture is but as a Romance yea doe onely converse therewith to prove their wit and parts in impunging the same who avowedly mock at the judgements and providences of God I confess these may be reckoned monsters a very prodigy in the time wherein they live though alace it is not the least part of the World and which is strange we see the most horrid Atheists do usually abound were the light of the Gospel â—ath most shined the savage places of the Earth bring forth no such monstrous birth as are hatcht within the visible Chutch for thus the judgment of God putteth a blacker dye on them then others O what a terrible sound should the fulfilling of the Scripture have in mens eares if they once came to have serious thoughts thereof since they cannot admit this but they must certainly read their own sentence of death which a few dayes shall put in execution and if the Scripture be true they are then unspeakably miserable 2. That indifferency whieh we see amongst men about Religion and the most concerning truths of Scripture doth shew how little this is knowen or laid to heart whence there is such a generation who doe not professedly deny the Scripture yet can turn it over in a Schoole probleme and wonders that men should engadge so far upon it it is not that it is hid from them but they truly choise to hide themselves from it as more suitable to that interest they drive that the truth of God should be rather a matter of opinion then of faith a thing which they would dispute but not beleeve but O what other thoughts would a clear sight of this cause That within so few dayes the truths and threatnings of the Word shall be sad earnest the fulfilling whereof no sharpnes of wit nor subtil arguments will be able to evade 3. That there is so much barren theory of Divine truths in the World with so little serious Christian diligence doth it not sadly witness how small acquaintance men have with this truth Whence we see so great a part of these who prefessedly acknowledge the word and are daily conversing with it yet can give no other account thereof but report so many that can satisfyingly discourse of the Scripture could never put their seal to it that God is true therein whence are so many great Schoole divines and able Ministers for parts such visible Atheists in their way and practice Is it not they really judge Divinity and Religion rather a science and matter of speculation then a matter of sense and feeling which men should more live then speak and cannot be knowen without experience the true end of knowledge but O. this cannot be found in bookes men will not meet with it in a throng of choisest notions it confoundeth the wife and disputer of this World whilst the meanest and most simple Christian oft knoweth more then these of greatest parts 4. The great Hypocrisy which is in the world I mean within the visible Church doth too clearly shew that this truth is little thought on or laid to heart for what is that false shew and appearance which we may say is not a sin but the very sinfulness of sin is it not the height of Atheisme And a real contradiction in their practice to this that the Scripture of God is true and will have ane unquestionable accomplishment O could any be so monstrously irrational to drive this poor plott how to appear that which they are not to be at such paines to act the part handsomly of a serious Christian to personat his teares and grief his spiritual frame his zeal for God if he did think gravely on this truth and did beleeve the threatnings of the Word that they will surely take place and be within a little no complement but sad earnest and that he is every houre standing under that Scripture-woe against Hypocrites I am sure it would make his very hair stand upright his joynts louse and his thighs smite upon another could he but seriously think upon this 5. These unwarrantable wayes which in a time of tryal men take for their escape may witness this that the Word they do not judge a sure ground to adventure on whence is there such hesitation in suffering times From that day many taking there leave of
and is not that agrave duty Which at all times in every station and condition of life should engadge men to this study thus every Christian may become a witnes to the truth and put his seal thereto for which he should think his life truely desireable and he doth in no small measure attain the true end thereof though he had no other opportunity for his masters service and we may say this truth of the Scriptures accomplishment like a great roll hath been transmitted from hand to hand from one age to another attested and as it were subscrybed by so many witnesses it doth thus come to our time and to every mans doore and require their personal witnessing and sealing of the same 2. This should make it an easy work to trust the Word and to adventure thereon in the ordinary occurrences of their life they may well trust God in strait who have so strong an argument to make use of that oft they have tryed him and the truth of his Word by many many experiences will not these that know his name trust in him Which was a notable testimony from a serious Christian in a very sharp triall oft have I tryed God and shall I not learn to trust him once 3. This doth lay the Christian in the way of that promise Psal 107. last ver a promise truely large and comprehensive but little considered that such as are wise to observe the works of God they shall see the loving kindnes of the Lord even in their own particular case made out to them yea whilst they are serious to observe his works abroad in the World and his way to others they shall be no losers thereby at home but find this promise meet them and to turn their general observation unto personal experience of the loving kindnes of the Lord. 4. Thus the saints by experiencing the truth of the Word get a conyincing seal thereby to their intrest in the promise for begun possession is indeed a strong witnes to this right when they can say they have got as certain returns of the Word when they have put it to an essay in some particulars of their life as they are sure of any thing they did ever see so from unquestionable experience they set up a pillar and write thereon Hither to hath the Lord helpt us 5. Thus should Christians with much advantage be helped to convince gainsayers for its sure Atheisme could not make so bold and publick an appearance if men did not so much take their religion on trust O the serious experienced man can with an other confidence own the truth whose experience and observation of the works of God give him an argument that none can answer while not only he can assert but conduct and lead men to the things themselves that they may see if in such and such particulars the Scripture be not truely fulfilled 6. Thus the providenee of God should have a more sweet refreshing countenance when from this great height that watchtower of Christiau observation we take a look thereof and truely otherwayes men will stumble at the most ordinary dispensations and think Gods Work is a masse of confusion but here we are taught to see how the written Word and his way are linked in a most sweet aggreement 7. We may thus trace Divine truth even by our sense and feeling and joyn the Word and experience in a regular correspondence yea thus we should have a clear transscript of the Lords way with his Church taken out of that great authentick original of the Scripture and there see on what a solid basis and foundation that magnificent structure of providence is raised up what a notable key should we thus have for opening the Scripture by a serious humble inquiry after the works of God Where not only the impression and signals of the power but of the truth and faithfulness of the Lord are so very legible 8. This is a piece of our talent wherewith we are entrusted of which every Christian should study a serious improvement knowing they must render an account what their observation of this great truth hath gained and what furder establishment and confirmation they have thus attained 9. I would adde the concernment and weight of this duty may presse it much on us for if the Scriptures accomplishment be an undoubted truth O! then this is sure the Saints have a great inheritance they are Princes though now under a disguise and though yet minors they are heirs of more then the World can shadow forth the Christian is then more happy on a dunghil scraping his sore then such who are cloathed in purple and fare delicately every day if this be sure we should look with compassion rather then envy on these whom the World doth account happy we need not question the gain of Godlines then it is sure that such who sow in teares shall reap in joy and the righteous though now trampled under in the morning shall have dominion yea in a vvord we may then on sure ground solace our selves with the thoughts of that great change which will be within a little when the grave must render back her prisoners and may with as much assurance of a blessed resnrrection ly doun in the dust as we are sure there will be a morning when we ly down at night O! then there is a Heaven and a hell that is certain eternity is not a night dream and one moment shall shortly put an end to all our services yea the shutting of our eye lids at death shall but open them in the Pardise of God HAving touched this truth a litle in the general I shall now hold forth some arguments whence the accomplâ—shment of the Scripture may be demonstrat they are these five which I intend to prosecute in the following discourse FIRST Argument To prove the Scripture is certainly fulfilled and hath an accomplishment is this that which hath been in all ages the testimony of the Saints what every particular Christian doth seal from their frequent and sure experience what is found and proved by them in there dayly walk upon exactest tryal yea what as many as ever were serious in Religion do witness must be certain and true But the accomplishment of the Scripture is such Therefore c. II. Argument That which is manifest and legible in the whole course and tenor of providence about the Church and by clear convincing instances both of judgement and mercy is made out to the observation of every age must be a certain truth but the Scriptures accomplishment is such Therefore III. Argnment Thar which hath not only the Christians testimony from experienee and of the Church from constant observation but is obvious even to the view of the World which from the conscience of the worst of men doth force a testimony that they can neither shift nor deny which also may be demonstrat to the conviction of ordinary observers hath a publick acknowledgement from
place in mens observation who do observe the judgements of their time 3. How the Scripture of God doth clearly shine upon the darkest footsteps of providence even these which would seem most strange and hard to understand so that it may be demonstrat nothing falleth out in the world or befalleth the saincts but what is most consonant to the scripture FIRST BRANCH As to the first branch of this argument I shall but instance five general promises which we finde held forth in the word concerning the church and endeavour to shew how very clear and obvious the accomplishment of them is if men do not willingly shut their own eyes FIRST Promise wherein we find the Scripture expresse is the preservation of the Church that he will be with her to the end of the world and though he make an end of other nations yet will he not make an utter end of her but while the ordinances of the sun and the moon doe last and as the dayes of heaven so shall her dayes be prolonged against her the gates of hell shall not prevail Ps 49 ver 16. Math. 16 18. Now that God hath truely verifyed this his promise is as good as his word is a truth though marvellous yet so very clear and manifest that I am sure no Atheist can deny it may be so easily demonstrat First that the Church doth continue and is kept alive to this day it doth certainly prove the truth of his promise for it can be said of her none can say it is a lye she hath outlived all her opposers the greatest of whom have found their grave in the quarrel over whose tomb that last confession of a great adversary Iulian may be written vicisti tandem Galilaee hath not this deadly and irreconciliable feed been perpetuat from fathers to children but who hath prospered in that enterprise the archers have oft shot and wounded her sore but her bow doth abide in strength as at this day this is her motto persecuted but not forsaken cast doun but not discouraged she who hath brought forth many children yet ceaseth not to bear whose age hath not marred her beauty her eyes are not dimm hor her strength failed a sight which may cause us no lesse stand and consider this great wonder theu Moses did at that which was but the shadow and embleme thereof a bush burning and not consumed for behold a church keptalive yet still in the flames and when to appearance consumed it doth arise more glorious out of her own ashes this is indeed the only Phanix and we know no other of whom that can be said hath she not born out these universal deluges which did like an inundation go over her head of idolatry and paganisme in the first times and Antichristianism with Arrianism in the after ages yet not swallowed up which may be no lesse marvellous then when she was keept above the waters in the ark and though her enemyes have oft sung her funeral song and rejoyced over the dead the dead bodyes of her witnesses yet they have risen again her drie bones have taken life and come together and behold she is alive at this day 2. Not only the Churches preservation but the continued series and succession thereof unto this time doth witnes the fulfilling of this promise that in the darkest times of her condition she hath not altogether disappeared even when she was so long hid in the wildernes but still in every age had some witnesses and though the Church hath oft cryed out for the want of Children and been heard weeping bemoaning her self because they were not yet we may say she never wanted an ofspring to this day shee did never dye without an heir and seed of her own to raise up her name even since the Covenant was first made with her in Adams family and though particular Churches have their set times which like the sun have these usuall periods their first rise their height and flowrishing and afterwards a gradual decay making way to the departure of the light yet this made never void the promise of God to the Church universal whose lamp was never put out nay shall not while the dayes of Heaven doe last 3. We must also say that the continuance and preservation of the Church is peculiar to her alone and can be said of no other interest and party beneath the sun for it is clear that there was no Kingdome or empire so firmly rooted no society so well governed by Lawes backed with power which hath had the best title and claim but time at last did prevail over it and made the same a trophee of her conquest yea the greatest Monarchies and flowrishing cities have at last yeelded so as of them it may be said nunc seges est ubi Troia fuit but time cannot to this day boast of a triumph over the Church of God though no nation no family in the earth could ever plead antiquity with her This is that interest which hath born out all these great revolutions that so oft changed the very face of the world yea hath outlived so many Kingdomes and successions thereof 4. It doth convincingly demonstrat the truth of this promise of the Churches preservation that the World yea greatest Athiests may see this hath not come to passe at an adventure nay not in an ordinary way of providence but by a divine power most discernable therein while it is so clear 1. That no interest or party had ever such adversaries as the Church against whom the powers of the World and the powers of darknes have alwayes been on foot 2. That outward advantages have usually been on her adversaries side not only 〈◊〉 great men of the earth but these of greatest parts anâ—â—â—ilities 3. That there will was never wanting to their power and their designe no lesse then to raze her to the foundation 4. That this enimity hath been rooted and irreconciliable which time to this day could never take up 5. That no interest did ever endure such violent assaults so many sharp batteries for it is observable that most of the wars and commotions of every age have been some way stated on the Churches account and what ever privat quarrels men have had among themselves yet it hath not hindred the pursuit of their malice against the woman and her seed 6. That such who have come out of her bowels even the men of her own house have oft been her greatest enemyes and lyen in wait to take her at an advantage in the day of her halting 7. That her reall friends have oft fainted in a time of her strait and stood afar off yea almost none of the Children which shee had brought forth have been then found to take her by the hand 8. That the depths of Satan in her enemyes as an angel of light have sometimes given her a sore assault so that if it had been possible and ordinary midses could have reacht their end
enchantment had fallen on men vvhat that could bee vvhich the more they sought to bear dovvn the more it increased that made the rich choose poverty and these vvho dwelt in palaces take themselves vvith chearfulnes to the dens and caves of the earth but besides this it is very manifest that in a large measure the spirit hath been let forth to the church in after ages yea there is no particular church vvhere the light hath shined but hath had it's special times some solemn day of the powring out of the spirit before the sun vvent down vvhich may be observed either at the first breaking up of the gospel or at some other remarkable time and change of her condition vvhence a great tack of souls to Christ hath follovved in a day vvherein an effectual doore vvas opened besides the reaching of the conscience and stirring the affection of many others under a common vvork of the spirit which usually goeth along vvith such solemn times 6 The going back of the tide and visible withdravving of the spirit from particular churches vvhere it hath sometime in a large measure been let forth is a very convincing vvitnes to the truth of this promise for it is clearly seen at vvhat a stand the gospel is in these places vvhere it most eminently shined that the land vvhich blossomed and vvas like a vvatered garden hath been made as the heath in the vvildernes and the ground from vvhence rain is vvithdravven and then that the ministers of Christ vvhose lot hath fallen in such a time are put to very sore vvork to vvorke as it vvere vvith oares for vvant of vvind to cast out the net all night and catch nothing a shut doore is upon them in the exercise of their Ministry duty is made Lurthensome because the Lord is against them there is an evident restraint upon the word and its intercourse is more with the ear then with the consciences of men yea any liberty they find is to execut a commission of judgement and to denounce the woe of the Gospel O doth not so manifest withdrawing of the spirit witnes the outletting thereof and that it is a certain and real thing 7. Doe not the stirrings and strange convictions which even the worst of men have sometimes under the word witnes a divine spirit and power going along therewith that which forceth an assent from their conscience to the truth which otherwayes they hate yea maketh them for the time wonder they should not have been more serious in the wayes of God yea it doth often put a thorn in the bed of their security for indeed the word and the light thereof doth torment these who dwell in the earth And truely this is a marvellous thing which winneth in uponm mens secret designes and councels doth reveal to them the most closs thoughts of their heart which they are sure mens eye could not reach taketh them down through themselves and yet that the world knoweth not whence it is yea are they not forced to confesse what a great difference they find betwixt the word from the mouth of some who are holy and serious though held out in greatest simplicity then from others even of greater gifts and accompanyed with more shew of eloquence that surely the one hath an other sound and relish speaketh more feelingly home to their heart then the most polished discourse of greatest oratours 8. One witnes moe I shall here give to the truth of this promise even these eminent examples of the grace of God which in every age have shined in the firmament of the Church some in love and zeal some in patience and humility some in the strong acts of faith and â—elf-denyal which doe certainly demonstrat a more excellent spirit then that which is in the world whence they appear with another lustre in their walk and carriage and have a sweet and fragant savour of the spirit to the very discerning of bystanders which truely sheweth that his wind doth blow on his garden when the spices send forth so pleasant a sent FOVRTH We find an expresse Promise in the word of Deliverance to the Church â—n a low and oppressed condition that surely the Lord will plead her cause will deliver his People when he seeth their strenght is gone and save them from the hands of their enemyes Ps 18 47 48 50. Ps 22 4 5. Is 54 17. Is 51 23. It is true this promise hath its bounds limits and provisions which should be taken along in the application thereof we know the Covenant of God with particular Churches is conditional only he promiseth that he will be with them while they are with him yea it is oft seen and there is no jarr here with this promise that a People professing the Gospel confederat with God following duty have even turned their back before the enemy and in the holy providence of God have for a time been given up to their fierce rage and violence but it is also sure that this promise hath an accomplishment and in the day of the Churches strait the Lord hath oft appeared by a strong outstretched hand for her help his own arm brought salvation to his People when they sought to him for God is known in her palaces for a refuge yea surely the Church might oft sing that song on such clear grounds as though with Israel shee had been standing at the red sea thy right hand O Lord is full of power thy right hand hath dashed in pieces thy enemyes for what nation or People is like this to whom he hath shewed such marvellous things Now to shew forth the faithfulnes of God in this his promise I would offer some few things that are a most clear and undenyable witnes thereto 1. There are fevv ages but vvee have some record of the churches condition vvhich hold forth such signal convincing providences of God in behalf of his oppressed church and people as may be a manifest seal to this truth it is true some times have been more remarkable for suffering times of judgement of a growing tryal wherein this truth hath not so clearly shined forth yea that long night vvhich the church had under Antichrist might seem to call it in question but never the lesse if men take a serious look of the Lords vvay and series of providence in ages past comparing one time vvith another what the straits and most extream case of the church hath at last resolved in they will find cause to cry with astonishment great deliverances giveth he to his people yea the Lord hath done gteat things for them I am sure were a full record with that true account which might be given of these more remarkable delivrances that particular churches have met with since the first planting of the Gospel among them wherein Gods very immediat hand for their help hath been discernable it should non-plus the World and greatest Atheists anent the real outmaking of this promise 2. The confession even
expectation from the same yea that very eminent instruments when much leaned to have been observably blasted and made to shrink under such a burden 2. That these whom the Lord had made much use of yea honoured greatly to be instruments in the service of the Church have oft had some discernable blot to reprove mens overlading of instruments with their esteem a Tertullian an Origen in auncient times yea even a Luther in these latter ages must goe with some halt to the grave 3. That many vvho have been useful in the Church for a time the Lord doth oft lay by yea maketh not use of them to the end but the last may be made first and truely that excesse in mens esteem putting a further vveight on some meanes then they could bear hath oft helped to render many useless 4. Is it not also seen hovv one extremity is thus plagued vvith an other None more ready to shrink in a day of trouble then such vvho at a distance seemed most daring yea none more ready to fall in that exâ—â—sse of undervaluing instruments then these who have most exceeded upon the other hand 7. Doe we not find the word threaten and in a special way point at corrupt ministers unfaithful watchmen who give not warning to the Church these shepheards that feed themselves but not the flock the leaders of a people that cause them to err and by their practice to stumble at the law Mal. 2 ver 3 ver 9. The accomplishment whereof hath in all ages been very discernable First how such have usually been most noted as the greatest and most violent enemyes which the Church hath at any time had yea that no course hath been so evil and gross that hath wanted some of these to help it on whose hatred and persecution of the Godly hath been found to exceed the most openly profane and profligat in that time 2. That as they are particularly threatned above others in the word so they get also some remarkable cast above others in their judgement and having once lost their savour becom vile and loathsome even to the worst of men are contemptible in the eyes of such whom they seek in a sinful way to please yea have a worse savour then the prophanest wretches that being verified in them Corruptio optimi pessima 3. that these do seldome make a good retreat from an evil way so as it is an usual observation it is rare for Church-men to repent or a fallen starr to shine again 4. Are not such oft smitten even in their gifts which we may see wither and drie up upon them while not faithfully improved yea to the very conviction of their hearers to have lost that edge which once they had in their ministry 5. I must add another remark thoug I desire to deale with fear and much tendernesse in such an application of the judgement of God how the Lord doth oft put some note of his wrath on the Children and ofspring of unfaithful Ministers that it hath been seen none more wretched and grosse whereto as their evill practice and example hath been a special help so likewise are they thus punished of the Lord who did not seek to beget Children to him by the Word but through their way did rather cause many to err and fal THE THIRD BRANCH HAving spoke something how the Scripture both as to the promises and threatnings thereof is evidently fulfilled in the Lords ordinary vvay of procedure vvith his Church I vvould a litle further follow this Argument how this also hath a manifold accomplishment even in these most strange and dark passages of providence whereas men are ready to stumble challenge the spotlesse righteousnes of God and his faithfulnes therein but if we lay them to that measure line of the word which is stretched over the whole vvork of providence vve vvill see hovv vvell these doe aggree and ansvver one to the other yea that all the paths vvherein God vvalketh tovvards his Church and people are surely mercy and truth To clear this I shall point at some footsteps of the providence of God in the vvorld and about the Church vvhich vvould seem most dark yea a contradiction to his vvord and promise but are plain and manifest if vveighed in the ballance of the sanctuary vvhere vve may have a satisfying look and resolution of these things vvhich other vvayes vvould be too hard for us to understand and may see hovv straight these paths are vvich vve thought crooked yea hovv easy and passable the greatest deeps of providence would be both as to Gods way with his Church and in our own particular case when once they are set over against the word I shall but touch this a litle in these following instances 1. It may seem strange how the Chnrcbes trouble and strait is oft seen to encrease with the first stirrings of her deliverance yea when some remarkable mercy and outgate is in the bringing forth the first step thereof would seem to put her further aback and in a worse condition then before This is indeed a piece of the Lords vvay vvith his Church vvhich in many instances may be vvitnessed but let us take the vvord along therevvith and vve vvill find 1. Hovv the Chuâ—ch is oft at the brink of the grave even vvhen her case is upon a turn and hovv it is congruous to his vvay vvhose paths are in the deep vvaters vvho cloatheth himself vvith darknes that men should not find any thing after him or lay down absolute conclusions concerning his dealing that the motions of pâ—ovidence should be oft so perplexed and various 2. Did not the case of the Church in Egypt seem much worse their burdens doubled upon them even when their deliverance was breaking up 3. Joseph to be sold as a slave and in Egypt turned in to a dungeon would seem steps of providence very unlike the thing which God was driving at thereby and yet we see how kindly these did work towards the same 4. The Church in Micah 4 ver 10. When shee was even at the door next to a deliverance her tryal was at the greatest height be in pain and labour to bring forth for ye shall goe to babylen and there be delivered but sorest pangs in the birth do usually promse the best issue 5 It was the step of the providence of God which of all seemd most dreadful to the Church in Ester the sealing of the decree and sending it forth to the out the whole seed of the Iewes while Haman still flowrished but lo this was the very step that wrought most throughly for her deliverance a wet mourning seed time is indeed one Scripture presage of a good harvest 2. The sore interruptions which a peoples endeavours for Reformation and to promote the Kingdome of Christ have met with even when set about with a clear call yea solemn and serious engadgements to God would seem strange and a shaking piece of providence and
have this observable in it that it had longer day and enjoyment of the light even from the times of Iohn Hus and Ierom of Pragus which was neer an 100 years before there was any day break on other parts so that vve vvould consider if their night did come soon on that their day vvas also much longer yea the stroke might tryst vvith the ebb of the tyde vvhen their harvest vvas much gathered in under so long a continuance of the Gospel though I dare not think the Lords work is utterly extinct there but that Bohemias dead and withered root hath life yet in it and shall once again bud forth 4. Is it not usually seen when judgement cometh on a land that the Godly get the first stroke but let us also consider this in the word where it is clear 1. That judgement must begin at the house of God and the green tree and that the Churches trouble and persecution is a forerunner of vengeance on her adversaries do we not find there is a cup of tryall which useth to go before that cup of the judgement of God And O the last is of a strong composition for the wine is red and mixed and the dreg very thick which is reserved for the troublers of the Church and for such who are at ease in a day of her grief and truely they have the advantage that drink first Blest are they whom thou chastenest c. That they may rest in the day of their adversity untill the pit be digged for the wicked yea Rev. 3 10. we find keeping of the word of patience which doth import suffering to the Church goeth before some more universal stroke and in that day proveth the safety and protection of the People of God 2. It is also clear that men may be raised up of the Lord and followed with successe when he hath them for a rod to his Church but that at last A shur the rod of my wrath will I cast in the fire saith the Lord it is truely an evidence of great wrath upon a party to be made the rod and executioners of judgement upon the People of God for they shall pay for it by some sadder stroke then any trouble or suffering whereof they have been instruments 5. That prosperity and successe should follow sometimes the worst of men in an evil course and cause yea such a concurrence and series of providence as seemeth to smile on them even to the bringing of their sinful devices to passe while the People of God have been made to fall in a just quarrel before their adversary would seem an astonishing providence but let us lay it foreagainst the Word and there we will see 1. That there is a proserity which tendeth to destruction Prov. 1 ver 32. the tabernacles of the robbers prosper Iob 12 ver 6. and they that provoke God are secure into whose hands he bringeth aboundantly but they doe not see that wickednes is its own punishment and how it is a dreadful stroke to thrive in an ill course Was not the Church shaken with such a providence Mal. 3 ver 15. yea tempted to call the proud happy but in the ver 18. they were taught from further observation to discern and to put a difference between the righteous and the wicked 2. Doe we not find that even the signes and predictions of false Prophets in favours of a sinful way may come to passe Deut. 13 ver 1 2. whereof the Church is there warned and Gods intent in the same cleared that it is for the tryal of his People whither they will love and fear the Lord and cleave to his way when providence would seem to shine on a crooked path 3. Did not successe for a time attend Absolom Israel as one man went after him yea the friends and counsellours of David a fair wind did also favour Haman in his essay to ruin the Church Jeremy is almost shaken with this yea they have taken root yea they grow and bring forth fruit but is not this at last usually found an ominous weather-gall before a storm though the bruitish man knoweth not nor fooles lay it to heart for what the wicked doth oft spring and flowrish I would add Israels falling before Benjamin it was an astonishing like providence and Habacuck was put to a stand with such a thing why the Lord lookt on while the wicked devoured the righteous Yea Joshua was to cry out in an amazement O Lord what shall I say when Israel turneth their back before their enemyes but we have also the Lords intent therein witnessed by his word that this is to humble and prove his People that he may doe them good in the latter end and thus he beateth them off from all carnal grounds of confidence he woundeth them to a cure that by bringiug them low he may raise and fit them for a further mercy 6. What great disappointments hath the Church met with when outward grounds of confidence and ordinary meanes have been most promising as it is a thing most true so it may seem strange at the first look but let us bring it to the word and the case will be there answered Deut. 32. Why should one chase a thousand but because their rock hath sold them and therefore their strength is gone with the Lords departing from them for when a time of judgement is come even the mighty then find not their hands counsel faileth to the auncient ordinary means bring not forth their wonted effects which Solomon sheweth and after ages have oft seen the race not ever to the swift nor the battel to the strong it is also clear from the word how threatning a condition that is for the People of God to be much caried out after meanes or lifted up therewith Is 30. they will ride on horses and this shall be their punishment but on the other hand the Lords way in bringing forth his greatest vvorks hath not been by might and povver but oft by meanes most improbable and unexpected 7. The long continuance of a heavy afflisting rod on the Church without the appearance of an outgate or any return to much vvrestling and prayer on that account may seem a strange step in Gods vvay vvith his People But the vvord vvill answer us in such a case where it is clear 1. That there are no bounds in the Scripture set to the continuance of a tryal it doth not tell how long a sharp storm may ly on either as to the Church or any particular Christian for it is a piece of the Lords secret counsel but not of that which is revealed it is enough that we know from it that men cannot make the Churches suffering longer then Gods time 2. It was a long terme that of Israels tryal in Egypt and after under the captivity three hundred and ninty dayes must the Church ly on her left side O how many a sad day and wearisome night was there in that word 70 weekes are
determined upon thy people and city Jerusalem 3. Have not the Saints under a long trouble been almost the length of blasphemy in their complaints Isa 40 ver 27. My way is had from the Lord and my judgement past over from my God Daniel how pressing with the Lord was he that he would hearken and do and not defer and yet the return cometh not until the first year of Cyrus yea that cry of the fouls under the Altar How long doth it not even get a dilatory answer for thus the Lord doth oft interpose his long suffering for some time betwixt his hearing of his people and avenging of them 4. It is also clear that there are many prayers before the throne the return whereof is suspended and an answer to Christians in their particular until that time when God shall build up Zion and then the prayer of the destitute shall be remembred even as to Christians privat enlargement when the Church shall be raised up 5. We know the Churches enemyes must have time to ripen and it is not a storm of a few dayes that will purge away the filth of the Daughter of Zion too soon letting out of a sore may cause it undercot and gather new matter and truely the word can resolve us in this that one minut sooner then Gods time would not be his peoples mercy 8. It is oft seen when there is some remarkable work of God on foott in a land and some great outpowring of the spirit how Sathan setteth up some usual counterfeit thereof and bringeth forth something of his work in such a time with a very strange resemblance of the same thus with the preaching of the freedome of grace and a clear discovery of that truth did Libertinisme under a very specious pretext spring up Thus we find the Anabaptist and Antinomian party set up in Germany to run down a Church-reformation under the shew of a more pure and spiritual way and of late did not Familisme in England and new England under pretext of a more spiritual dispensation cast off the very letter of the Scripture turning it over in an Allegory and in behalf of the liberty of prophesying cry down a standing ministry but though this may seem strange yet the Scripture is very clear concerning it 1. That even Sathan himself is transformed into an Angel of light and in no shape proveth more dangerous to the Church 2. That the most dreadful errours and a false way will oft come near to the choisest exercises of the saints and have such a resemblance to the same that if it were possible the very elect should be deceived 3. Was there not a Simon Magus with false miracles set up over against the Apostles and when the time of the Messias drew near did not then a Theudas and Judas of Galilee break forth to amuse the people We find also an altar from Damascus set up beside that which was shewed to Moses the Servant of the Lord in the mount yea when Moses and Aaron was giving Pharaoh a sign did shew forth the marvellous power of God then did the Magicians cast doun their rod also to counterfeit the same by which the heart of Pharaoh was hardned 9. The abounding so much of errour and heresie now in the times of the gospel with that swift grouth thereof which is oft seen where the light most clearly shineth would seem strange yea is a thing whereat many are ready to stumble and thus to challenge the way of God But is not the Scripture in this clearly verifyed so that this piece of providence which is so shaking to many if we take the word along with it might be a very convincing confirmation to us of the same for 1. We find the Apostles yea Christ himself hath given expresse vvarning thereof that this should be one of the special and greatest tryals of the Christian Church vvhereof the Old Testament vve find doth litle mention that tryal not concerning the Church then so much as these after-times under the Messias Kingdome wherein the event may be clearly seen to ansvver these predictions vvhich are so frequent thereof in the Nevv Testament 2. Doth not the event also ansvver the vvord as to that particular vvay and method hovv errour should be propagated which is there clearly foretold by subtil undermining under the pretext of liberty with plausible insinuations so that we must say not only the matter but with all these discernable tokens even upon the manner the word is made out 3. Doe we not find this should be judgement on men who receive not the love of the truth and that after flourishing times of the Church when he who rideth on the white horse is gone forth the black horse and his rider doth quickly follow and truely it is seen that in the time of hottest persecution the Church hath not been so much troubled with this adversary as when she did begin to get rest and most of outward liberty nor yet so at the first breaking up of the Gospel as after some time of its continuance 4. Doth not the event likewise thus answer the word that in the breaking out of heresy in the Church a spirit of errour the dephts and mighty working of Satan should be seen which I am sure is undenyable how manifest the interposing of these powers of darknes is therein if we consider 1. It s marvellous dispatch and grouth like a plague and the arrow that flieth by day 2. With what a discernable fury and violence men are thus driven as with an impetuous current yea oft a change on their very natural temper is seen most evidently 3. These monstrous and horrid things which are oft brought forth may shew whose hand is in such a birth 4. That usual tendency that at last errour hath to loosness in practice which as it poisoneth the spring and corrupteth the leading faculty the judgement so we see it moveth towards the vital spirits and doth influence the conversation and thus the leprosy in the head breaketh forth in blaines through the whole body 5. And doe we not see how many grosse and profane have been carried with this spate how few get leave to stand but are still carryed from one step to another and it is clear the world did never put out its rage so much against that way as it hath done against the truth except when some outward interest maketh it a quarrel 10. These great shakings and commotions that use to attend the Gospel when it cometh in power to a land may also seem strange yea is ready to make many stumble But is not the word verified herein what great stirs and trouble did tryst the the Church after great light in powring out of the spirit Ioell 2 ver 29. we may there likewayes see how this giveth the World an Alarum maketh the Kings and great men of the earth run together to hinder the rising of Christs Kingdome Psal 2 ver 3. let us
upon the waters should make them appear as blood to the Children of Moab But we see what great things the Lord is thus bringing about 3. Is it not oft manifest how not the smallest casuality or circumstance providence doth losse without some improvment thereof yea that it guideth the stroke of mans sword in the battel and directeth the bullet to its appointed mark and it doth evidently check the starres and control that fatal necessity which we are ready to fear may or will follow their aspect and it doth even determine these which in themselves are most free and absolute the heart and wil of man must not the crowing of the cock the foldiers dividing of Christs garments fall out for an accomplishment of the Scripture and though it was at a venture that that man drew the bow which sent Ahab to his grave yet it was no chance did direct the arrow between the very joynts of his armour 4. Amidst the various emergents and hazards of mens life may not experience tell that surely things contingent are not abandoned to fortune but there is a providence which doth number our haires without which they cannot fall to the ground O how astonishing may it be to think hovv surprizing hazards have been oft obviated by vvhat unexpected meanes men have been delivered from violent assaults hovv help unlooked for hath even trysted at a choke and an extremity yea vvhile their foot vvas slipping even betvvixt their falling and fall they have been trysted vvith some remarkable cast of mercy 5. Is it not easy to discern hovv many accidents vvhich seem most casual yet by no humane prudence or industry can be prevented but are observably brought about and guided to fulfil the threatnings of the vvord on ungodly men hovv vvas Sisera led in to the house of Iael by other places hovv should Hamans suit for Mordecais death tryst vvith that very morning vvhen the Kings thoughts vvere favourable to him for it might seem had Haman been one day sooner he vvould have got his vvill THE THIRD ARGUMENT FOr the Scriptures accomplishment is this that not only the Christians experience and observation of the Cnnrch beareth witness thereto but it is also a truth which even to the view and conviction of the World may be demonstrat from whom it doth oft force a testimony yea in every age the worst of men have been forced to acknowledge and so it must be a thing very evident But the accomplishment of the Scripture can be thus witnessed therefore c. It is true these sweet and sensible enjoyments which the Saints have of this truth the World cannot reach but it is also sure that in every age the works of the Lord and some more notour convincing providences both of judgement and mercy doe solemnly invite men to observe the accomplishment of the word therein yea no time hath wanted something of a publick vvitnesse from ungodly men even greatest mockers of Religion vvho under that constraining povver of conscience at death or in some day of their strait have been forced to seal the truth by a very open confession of the righteousnes of God tovvards them and this is indeed the Lords blessed design in making his vvorks sometime so conspicuous that they may not only confirm the faith of his people but render Atheism inexcusable that the glory of his faithfulnes as vvell as of his povver and vvisdome may shine forth before the sons of men I confesse vve may vvonder vvhy the World looketh so litle upon this and hovv the conviction of so great a truth vvhich they cannot shun doth not more presse them but the Holy Ghost doth fully resolve this the brutish man knovveth not neither do fooles lay to heart hovv the Scripture taketh place and that the flovvrishing of vvicked men is but in judgement for their further ruine To prosecut this argument a litle there are some special truths I vvould instance vvherein the faithfulnes of God in fulfilling his vvord may be seen by the World yea is obvious to the most ordinary observers and though they be but a fevv vvhich I shall here touch yet I must say they are such concerning truths and have so neer a reference to the foundation of our faith that men cannot acknovvledge the same but must also confesse the Scriptures Divinity and that there is a truth and reality in godlines and in Christian Religion truely I may here vvith some confidence challenge the greatest Atheists yea appeale them to their conscience and serious thoughts if in these following instances though but a litle of what might be said on such a subject the truth and accomplishment of the Scripture be not very manifest FIRST I shall first hold forth this truth that man is surely fallen from that excellent estate wherein once he was formed Rom. 5 ver 18. 19. and now is not that which he was at the beginning a truth so clear that we may say even without the discovery of the word might be easy for any serious onlooker to discern the same did not even heathens have some glance at this The evidence whereof they could not altogether shun It is true the cause and original of this dreadful contagion how sin entered into the World how it is derived to the whole race of man by imputation as well as inhesion how that poison is carried from the fountain to the cistern the Scriptnre doth only discover but this I am sure may be obvious to all that poor man is thus sick and diseased and now beareth the marks of such a fall and ruine as we read of in the word I confesse it is strange that when this is so very convincing and manifest it should not force men to some more serious enquiry whence such a thing is or if there can be a recovery of so sad and desperat like case but to clear this a litle I would offer these three things to be considered 1. That there is some remainder of that excellent fabrick which may yet appear among its ruines some print and appearance though dark of that primitive lustte and beauty some draughts wich sin hath not wholly worn out that may clearly tell what man once was and point out his former excellency that he hath been an other wight of whom Absaloms character might be truely said without all blemish from the head to the foot For we see the deep impressions of a Deity still rooted in men even among the most wilde and savage which no invention can utterly raze we see some common principles of reason that are imprinted in the most rude and ignorant some innate notions and Ideas which the soul hath of good and evil among all and in every place of the earth likewise these natural truths 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which we may see are no wayes imprest on the soul from any objects of sense but such whereto men by an unavoidable necessity are forced to assent and besides what meaneth the
they seek from man 4. That such vvho have been most given vp to uncleannes are oft seen not to encrease as to their posterity but their issue observeably made to faile yea by a divine hand rooted out sure many such signal examples might be instanced 5. How such who have choosed sin to shun trouble and suffering have in their sinful way got as large a measure thereof as that man who in Queen Maryes time said he could not burn for the truth and therefore forsook it by an unseen hand had both himselfe and his house in one night burnt 6. That the treacherous and deceitful men are thus dealt with by others yea children who have been unduetiful to their parents have from theirs met with the same recompence 7. That whilest men to make a purchase have even denyed themselves the necessary use of outward things are oft seen to leave their estate to such who do quickly wast and scatter the same and thus the sinful parsimony of parents punished with the prodigality of such who succeed them 8. That the frequent use of some dreadful imprecations are oft punished by the Lord with a sutable stroke to the conviction both of themselves and onlookers 9. How such as have joyned together and united themselves against the truth have been visibly broken as to their own privat interest and truely we must say there is oft such a tryst of very convincing circumstances in some acts of the judgement of God with such a resemblance to the sin yea judgement sometime pursueing men in the very place where the sin hath been acted that it may be easy for all who go by to say there is indeed a God who judgeth in the earth 4. Doth it not appear how very convincing and obvious this truth is even to the world from these ordinary remarkes and proverbial sayings which we find in all ages and in every part of the earth even the most rude and ignorant have had of the judgement of God for truely what else are these but an expresse witnes how universally this truth is known and received by men how much the world is convinced thereof through a long tract of observation from the fathers to the children yea thence they have had a divinity of their own drawn out thereof how such sins do not use to passe without some notour punishment Now I would but name some few of these remarkes that have been most usual in all times 1. How some familyes have not thriven but a secret judgement hath been discernable thereon since they had hand in some grosse acts of wickednesse such as bloodshed their former prosperity from such a day visibly declining 2. How that an evil purchase useth not to be of long continuance but their estate oft in a very strange and unsensible way made to evanish which their children though frugal can by no meanes keep up and the cause hereof men doe easily point at it was purchased by fraud transmitted with a curse cleaving thereto and so there was no warding of the judgement of God 3. Such who doe not much consider Gods contraversy yet are oft forced to remark that since some have medled or matched with such an house they have sadly smarted thereby something of a curse even following the race and posterity of some 4. How sacrilegious medling with that which hath been for a pious and publick use hath caused a visible wast and consumption in their own estate 5. That mens asking counsel from the Devil and turning to that airth for their help doth usually resolve in a sad and tragick close and truly this many in the shutting up of their life have been forced to confesse 6. That falshood doth not use to keep its feet nor a wicked way long prosper what ever it seeme to the first view yea I may adde as one of the Worlds remarks which they cannot well shun that which seemeth was an ordinary saying in the time of Ester that it is not safe troubling the Church or for men to state themselves in opposition to that party and I dare not question but this shall be yet as convincing and obvious to the World as it hath been in any former ages 5. Is not the appearance of a divine hand oft very obvious to the World in the discovery of sin and bringing to light some grosse acts of wickednes even in extraordinary way while it is seen 1. By what strange unexpected meanes these have been brought forth such an astonishing tryst and concurrence of things therein as hath forced not only onlookers to some special remark but hath even struck the guilty party through the heart with wonder and conviction of the same 2. How the hand of Justice persuing men for some notour and known crime doth oft bring to light some that have been most secret which they thought the World could never reach yea it may be frequently seen while men have been in one sin found out it hath also brought forth the discovery of some other and forced them to confesse that is was a righteous judgement persuing them for the same It is a thing also known yea by many undenyable instances witnessed that marvellous discovery of concealed murther by the bleeding of the body upon the touch of the murtherer I confesse it should be hard to assert the lawful and warrantable practice of such an appeal to so extraordinary and stupendious a sign from the Lord where the Scripture goeth not clearly before us but on the other hand such a thing so surely tryed for such an end and in the case where all ordinary meanes of discovery have been wanting I think calleth us to a serious remark thereof while it so visiby seemeth to witness his hand who doth make inquifition for blood 6. Is not the dreadful consternation these tormenting feares which men after some grosse acts of wickednesse do bewray a very obvious witness to this truth that there is a God who judgeth on the earth in whose hands it is a terrible thing to fall and sheweth how great a punishment wickednes is to its selfe truely if Atheists turn not brutish and stupid they must notice this and confesse a thing which doth so oft reach their eares what have been the horrid cryes of many dying men who have most sported with sin in their life that may tell bystanders there is a judge who can stretch forth his hand on the soul and conscience whereto no rack or outward torments is any way comparable 7. I would furder adde these extraordinary signs and prodigies which do usually go before some stroke and judgement on a land do they not clearly point at a divine hand in the same For as these are a solemn forewarning from Heaven to give men an alarum before remakable changes the truth whereof the World cannot deny so we must say they are a convincing testimony that these judgements are no casual things which the Atheist cannot answer it being so clear 1.
and at a time when it is expected grossest of men would speak truth yea that this doth appear while men cannot in the least charge the dying Christian with any distemper in his judgement but while they have been most composed stayed and present in minde and as to other things of their concernment most deliberat and sober even then they have born this witnes THE FOURTH ARGUMENT I shall here offer to prove the Scriptures accomplishment is this That whereof the most part as to these special predictions and promises that concern the Church is fulfilled and hath now taken place in their appointed times which we may at this day clearly tead in the event and but a litle part thereof now remaineth to be made out must be a sure truth But the Scripture is thus fulfilled and the prophecyes thereof now made legible in the history of providence and in the works of God about his Church Therefore c. I would premit here some few things ere I speak particularly to this argument 1. Though the Scripture is thus wonderfully suited by the Lord and taketh place in every generation as if it were alone directed to that time yet it is also clear that a special part thereof hath its proper accomplishment in these ages and periods of time to which it doth in a peculiar way relate some part of it which did concern the times of the Old Testament some that doth also answer to the times of the Gospel and a part of it which hath a peculiar respect to these latter dayes which the Lord is now bringing forth and we wait for a more full accomplishment that it is on a near approach 2. It is also sure that the whole work of God and his providence about his Church here in the World which was perfect from the beginning and before him from eternity is comprehended under the written word where the Lord hath fully revealed his minde and counsel anent every event and concernment of the Church though we oft be in the dark in finding out the same but the event will in due time speak for it selfe which should cause us until then with much sobriety passe our judgement on some of these truths that are not yet fulfilled 3. It is clear that the Prophets of old did not onely foretell such great changes and revolutions as were to go over the Churches head and declare the certainty thereof but we find these prophecyes oft point at the times and periods of time whereto they did relate and though sometimes in dark tearmes yet did clearly shew that there was a certain prefixed time not at every time they could have their performance 4. We would consider how the full accomplishing of the Scripture and the perfecting the Lords work about his Church will be at once and doth keep foot together and then shall a full and satisfying discovery of Gods way and providence and all that he hath been doing in the World clearly break up when the great mystery of God in his written word is finished and the Church so near to land That I may speak a little to so grave a subject I would lay down these two things to be considered 1. How much of the Scripture and predictions thereof may be now seen clearly verifyed in the event 2. What doth yet remain to have an accomplishment in these last times by which we may certainly judge hovv near the Lords vvork about his Church is to a close anent the first I shall point at some of these most concerning events changes vvhich the Church hath met vvith vvherein vve may see vvhat of the Scripture may at this day be read in the history of providence and is certainly fulfilled I. WHAT IS ALREADY ACCOMPLISHED I. Let us go back to these first times after the fall and see that dreadful stroke which came upon the old World by the flood after an universal defection from God and we shall there find the fulfilling of that which Noah that great preacher of righteousnes had oft foretold and of these threatnings which by Moses were there recorded wherein it may be very manifest 1. That this truth besides Divine authority no records of auncient times no antiquity could ever contradict yea some of the eldest writers doe clearly witnes something of an universal deluge over the earth with the strange preservation of some from it however they were in the dark as to many circumstances thereanent Josephus doth cite Berosus the Ciâ—aldean about this who without doubt had theÌ„ some of these oldest records true uncorrupt Eusebius also doth mention some fragments of Abidenus and Appollidorus which in his time were extant clearly pointing at the flood and at Noah under the name of Zisuthrus with his sending out of birds to see if the waters were asswaged 2. There is nothing here doth contradict reason how this might be brought about even in the way of ordinary natural causes which the Lord did make use of for that end for we find the windowes of Heaven were opened the air being condensed into clouds and their retentive power loused these great floodgates were thus set louse which falling not in drops but all in a full body like the spouts and cataracts of the West-Indies might soon overwhelm the earth with aboundance of water while these fountaines also of the great deep beneath were broken up which was not only the Ocean let forth to go over its banks but an universal vent to all the veines of the earth and that great masse of waters which is in the bowels thereof which from beneath meeting these that were from above may give men a clear and rational account how such a thing might be 3. This piece of the Scripture is most congruous and aggreable to the whole and the great scope and drift of the same for it points out an height of sin and of wrath an universall defection and an universal stroke meeting together it leads us forward to Christ of whom the ark was an excellent shadow and of that salvation which in and by him the Church hath from eternal wrath and is a very manifest pledge and sign of that last destruction of the World which though not in that manner yet shall once surely be and find men in such a condition as this flood found them into in the dayes of Noah II. What we have expresly promised in the word of the Churches delivery from Egypt and vvas foretold by Joseph at his death that God should surely bring back his People out of that land for vvhich he left his bones to ly unburied as a pledge thereof hath novv many ages past been fulfilled It is long since that remarkable day vvhen God made a vvay for his People through the red sea and his povver knovvn upon Pharaoh and the Egyptians since Moses vvith the Church did sing that triumphant song the horse and his rider he hath cast in the sea vvherein these things are most clear 1.
Children who are these that flee as a cloud like the doves to their windowes O blessed day in which the light did first break up on the poor ofspring of Iaphet who then dwelt in the shadow and region of death O blest day that brought salvation with it to the gentils wherein the Lord did visit these dark places of the earth which were full of the habitations of cruelty I think the sense of so great a mercy should never let us want an errant for giving thanks yea put much to silence our other complaints 4. Is it not also clear that not only as to the time but these very places of the earth which Esai and other of the Prophets did particularly point at this promise had an exact accomplishment for it is this day manifest the isles which we find so frequently mentioned that these should wait for his law and the uttermost parts of the earth whence he should bring thâ— Daughter of his dispersed may have a clear commentar upon the same from what the Lord hath done to Britain and Ireland with other remote parts of the earth yea hath not the Aethiopians been made to stretch out their hands even in these sun-burnt places of Africk hath not Christ also had a conquest where many a black moore was through grace made as the snow of Salmon and the feathers of a dove so that it is clear how these particular places which were so oft pointed at by the Prophets have been visited by the Gospel and fallen to the share of the Church 5. This change which by the incoming of the gentils to the Church was wrought upon the Earth is a thing so great and astonishing that were it still in the promise and this not yet fulfilled it would truely stagger our faith how such a thing should ever come to passe and is there not here a miracle that the World cannot possibly deny even this great work of God in bringing of the gentils which without an extraordinary power could not be effectuat if men will consider First That svvift progresse which then the Gospel had how it did run and was glorified through the furthest parts of the earth and like a ligtning break forth from one place to another so that in the Apostles time the Scripture doth shew how most of the conspicuous Provinces of Asia had received the Gospel and Tertullian who lived in the second Century in his Book contra Iudaos doth there witnes how many nations and these most remote from other Parthians Medes Armenia Phrygia Cappadocia Pontus and Pamphilia with much of Egypt and diverse parts of Africk besides Rome Spain and other places of Europe were in his time almost wholly Christian for it is indeed clear that the bounds of the Church was then of a larger extent then it is now at this day 2. It is also undenyable that in this solemn day of the Gospels spreading amongst the nations suffering and persecution did all that time attend the Church yea in such a measure that as the writers of these times do witnes neither famine pestilence nor the sword did destroy so many of the World as then were of Christians in the two first centuries put to death for adhering to the truth and it is clear that this great work of God in such a swift spreading of the Church was most discernable in these times of hottest persecution yea then was her most effectual grouth and increase which upon her getting some rest and beginning to flowrish with external peace was at a visible stand 3 How marvellous a thing was this to be brought about if we consider the many different languages that did then stop correspondence between the Church and the rest of the earth for how could the truth thus spread among the nations yea in such remote places of the World Churches be planted by the Apostles and have the Scripture translated and made legible to them without that extraordinary gift of tongues which for that end was then given from the Lord sure beside sacred authority anent this reason may convincingly witnes to the World the truth of such a miracle 4. How strange and wonderful a change was this that in so short a time the Gospel should thus enlighten and put such a lustre on the most rude and savage places of the earth where scarse humanity had been and bring them from the condition of beasts to men should thus tame and civilize the greatest Barbarians and cause the lion to ly down with the lamb yea by the preaching of that Gospel and of a crucified Christ which as it was to the Jewes a stumbling block so to the Greeks foolishnes And in a word was not this indeed a miracle how in a mattet of such high concernment as that vvherein mens soul and everlasting interest lay they should be turned off their old vvay and Religion in vvhich they and their Fathers had been so long rooted that a little spark which did break up in Iudea should bring dovvn the idols of the nations and burn up their temples Alace that there is so little of a large heart of that primitive zeal and fervour this day among Christians for the enlargement of the Church that such merchants are now rare who would venture out to trade with other parts for this excellent ware the merchandise whereof is better then of gold O that in these parts where the truth is knovvn and professed the Lord vvould raise up men of such a spirit and such a Magistrat vvho vvould make it their vvork and lay dovvn solid grounds hovv to advance the Kingdome of Christ in the dark places of the earth and reckon their interest in a forrain plantation upon the account of the Gospel no lesse then on the account of trade vve vvould pray and yet hope for this VIII What vve find foretold by Daniel yea by Christ himself anent the destruction of Ierusalem and ceasing of the Iewish dayly sacrifice with the rejection of that people Dan. 12. ver 11. Matth. 24 ver 2. hath many ages past come to passe wherein the World may see how clearly the event doth answer this Prophecy for it is manifest 1. That this is a truth which doth need no other witnes then the scattered remnant and desolate ruines of that once flowrishing Church and nation of the Iewes vvhich vve see vvith our eyes at this day vvhose present state is so great a monument of divine judgement so clear a vvitnes to the Scripture that I think men cannot look thereon if they be in any measure serious but must have such a conviction 2. What hath befallen this people may it not be an astonishment to the World in all succeeding ages a stroke that hath put them in a more sad condition then any nation or people we ever yet heard of that hath cast them out of their own land scattered them as vagabonds through the earth so that these many ages they have had no scepter
Churches ruines and witnes their detestation and grief for the growing Apostacy of such times 3. It is clear that as the prophecy doth point at some more remarkable suffering and persecution which the Church was to meet with from Antichrist beyond all it had endured from that adversary in former ages yea a special permission from the Lord to that party to vent their rage and cruelty against the Saints which should fall out after the witnesses finishing their testimony who had so long in an abject low condition as in sackcloth prophecyed yea when Antichrist should be at his height and his Kingdome upon the turn that then must this remarkable killing of the witnesses be accomplished so likewise did the event convincingly verify the same for it is knowen that upon the close of Antichrists reigne whilest the truth began to break up this sorest storme of persecution beyond all that had been before did then break upon the Church even in its budding forth that we may say that adversary did not onely put forth the outmost of his power and rage against the Saints but seemed in some measure to bring his cruel designes to passe which the dreadful massacres in France Province and the Valleys of Piemont the sore and violent persecution of the Church through the Netherlands under the Duke of Alba and in England by Queen Mary in Germany after the defeat of the Duke of Saxony and Landgrave of Hesse can clearly witnes 4. Is it not also clear how this remarkable storm and cutting down of the Saints over whose dead bodyes their adversaryes did rejoyce was according to this prophecy to be previous to some eminent enlargement and reviving of the Church which did accordingly fall out in the event like a resurrection of the witnesses from the dead to the astonishment of the World that immediatly followed upon the back thereof so that when their enemyes thought they had gained their end as they did conclude by such persecutions particularly that French massacre that the Protestant interest should be quite ruined they were forced to see their labour in vain and the Church more eminently flowrishing after the same I shall but furder adde that Antichrist hath not only been revealed and his Kingdome come to its height but it is clear this day that it is on the falling hand and his ruine is now begun upon which account we may say yea have cause to sing that the winter is past the fig tree putteth forth her leaves that sheweth the sommers approach yea the singing of birds is heard in our land let us go forth and meet him who is now gone out as a mighty man for the salvation of his Church and taken the fields against this great adversary of his truth and people on whose side victory doth surely wait II. WHAT IS YET TO BE ACCOMPLISHED HAving touched a little some of the most concerning prophecyes of the Scripture both under the New Old Testament which are already fulfilled and the truth thereof so clearly written forth in the history of providence that we may say the most ordinary observers if they will not shut their eyes cannot want a conviction thereof I shall now in the next place point at that which yet remaineth of the prophetical part of the Scripture to be accomplished these prophecyes which concern the Church in these last times whereby we may have a sure demonstration how far the night is spent and of the near approach of that blessed day of the liberty of the sonnes of God for this doth finish the mystery of God and fully perfecteth his work if once that which remaineth of the prophecyes of the word were fulfilled There are these truths the accomplishment whereof we have a sure warrant to expect before the end First the full ruin and downfal of Babylon 2. The conversion and incalling of the Jewes to Jesus Christ 3. A solemn day of the Churches flowrishing both Iewes and Gentiles which shall follow the outmaking of the former promise 4. The fall and destruction of the Turkish Empire that cruel party who hath been raised up and established for judgement with whom the Lord shall yet reckon for all that Christian blood by them so unjustly shed seemeth clearly held forth Rev. 16 ver 12. 5. We are also to expect after all these that full and last stroke upon Gog and Magog and then the Lord is at hand and that great mystery of the prophecyes and promises of the Scripture shall then be finished and at a blessed close I. We have the full ruin and destruction of Antichrist and his Kingdome clearly prophecyed and in very expresse tearmes promised to the Church 2 Thess 2 ver 2 8. Rev. 16 ver 10 17. the accomplishment whereof we do yet according to the Scripture wait for that the God of truth who cannot lye or repent shall in due time assuredly bring about and that this day approacheth when that solemn cry shall be heard Babylon is fallen anent which we would consider 1. That this judgement is already begun and the first step thereof visible is now clear wherein men may see the event most exactly answer the prophecy for the Lord hath begun to consume Antichrist by the breath of his mouth and since the first breaking up of the light his Kingdome hath been mouldering down before the Word hath not Nations fallen off at the voice of the preached Gospel It is true the Church wanteth not sore conâ—licts even under the Vials and it is the Lords way to try his People with such various uncertainties that when things have been most promising another providence cometh like a crosse wave which seemeth to drive them as far back as once they seemed to be forward yet it is sure and should be beyond debate that Antichrists overthrow is upon a present advance and that work of the Lord for his Churches deliverance is going fordward for if we believe salvation by Christ upon the warrant of the word should we not also with much assurance believe that Antichrists wound is deadly and incurable which he hath got by the preaching of the Gospel which all the Physitians of the earth shall never help 2. This is one of the greatest and signal actes of the judgement of God on his Churches enemyes one of the most eminent manifestations of his glory which he hath reserved for the last times wherein the appearance of his hand and great power shall be very manifest and we are to expect by this remarkable stroak that way shall be made for that glorious house which Christ is to have for himself in the latter dayes which shall be built upon Antichrists ruines when that new bride both of Iewes and Gentiles shall be prepared for the marriage supper of the Lamb. 3. Though we are to expect on clear ground from the word the Lords eminent appearing by his immediat hand in this great work which shall be so convincing in that day and witnes an
and in their greatest strength that by a strong hand he did make room for his truth when both Law and force did withstand the same and put the marks of his wrath on such who would oppose the spreading of his Kingdome that they have been as visible as sometimes their rage and violence against the Church was yea since the Lord begun to lift up a standard for the truth and call forth his People to act hath it not been seen they have losed their ground more by underhand treaties and turning aside to carnall politick shifts then by open force and violence vvhich the French Massacre vvith other sad instances can vvitnes for indeed the Church hath still lost least by greatest opposition 2. Have vve not seen by vvhat dreadful shakings and alterations of the earth this late glorious reformation of the Church from Antichristianisme hath been ushered in vvhich hath been more strange and frequent then in many ages before hath not the Lord caused the Nations shake and the earth to reel like a drunken man to shevv men that though he suffered long in former times of the Worlds ignorance he vvill not so novv bear vvith opposing his truth 3. Have vve not also seen the Lords raising up men fit for action in these last times men of a great heroick spirit vvith some more then ordinary elevation of the same to appear for his intrest such vve may say that many former ages could not instance in vvhich the Lords helping his People to do great things his suiting them vvith enduments for the service and vvork of the time hath been most discernable Was not that excellent man the Admiral of France vvith many others in that place eminently raised up for the necessity of that time and doe we not find these Princes of Orange William and Maurice and Mauritius of Saxony whom the Lord raised against Charles the V. and caused him flee over the Alpes yea what marvellous resolution and courage did attend the actings of the confederates of the Low Countryes in latter times doe we not find Gustavus King of Sweden Bernard Duke of Weymar Lantsgrave of Hesse with many others eminently raised to avenge the Lords quarrel against that bloody house of Austria have we not also seen very great instrumemts raised up in Brittain and Ireland who were followed with wonderful successe to act for the truth against Antichristian Prelacy and truely we must say the withdrawing in such a measure of that spirit of courage and resolution which once was so visibly let forth in the first dawning of the Reformation may sadly point at a great decay of zeal selfe confidence unfaithfulnes as to the improving of opportunities for the Lord was with his People whilest they were with him and did singly follow him in his way but alace with their departing it may be said their strength hath departed from them however the quarrel is clear for an oppressed Peoples acting upon so just so necessary an account as the interest of Religion against the cruelty and violent encroachments of Antichrist wherein as the Lord hath eminently owned his People so I dare not question he will yet appear and silence the adversaryes of this truth by such an argument against vvhich they shall not debate 4. That unusual deludge of blood which for the 100 yeares past hath overflowed much of Europe can be a witnes to this that the Lord hath taken peace from men who vvould not embrace the peace of the Gospel offered in these last times and given his enemyes who had shed the blood of the saints blood to drink in great measure I am sure poor Germany can prove this which for 20 years together was a field of dead men France from the dayes of Henry the II. to the establishment of Henry the IV. hovv long vvas the Low Countryes made a stage of vvarr vvhere many a cruell Spanjard did fall under the svvord of an avenging God besids the late bloody vvarres in Brittain and Ireland and vvhat doth this declare but that Jesus Christ hath taken the fields and it vvil not be novv vvith the Kings of the earth to oppresse his Church and withstand the truth as in former times I shall but adde hovv vvonderfully hath the Lord appeared in delivering his Church at the greatest extremity hath turned his enemyes counsels and designes upon themselves brought about the great vvorks of these last times by meanes so unexpected and improbable that vve may say as to vvhat of his judgement is already execute against Antichrist hath been no lesse marvellous then that Jerichoes vvals should fall at the sound of a trumpet of ram-horn or a cake of barley bread tumbling into the host of Midian should smite and overthrow the same surely when we consider what the Lord hath done and how exactly that doth answer the Scripture we may have much to confirm us anent the further accomplishment of his word and be assured that the term of his long suffering towards Babylon is at an end war is denounced and the execution already begun which must not have a close untill judgement be accomplished into victory IV. Ground which may confirm the faith of the saints and be as a pledge in their hand of the full accomplishing of the Scripture yea that this is near is this that the day is now turned and that prophecyed victory which the Church should have over Antichrist before the end is not only begun but in a great measure advanced This is indeed a great confirmation when we see so marvellous a crisis in the Churches case her recovery from so desperat and hopelesse a disease already begun that it shall be furder perfected we are made to wonder at the greatnes of these things yet promised but why should we not also wonder at that which God hath already done for his Church in our dayes the Scripture doth shew that Antichrists ruin must begin by the word that this stroke shall be gradual and however that great work of God meet with much opposition yet it shall no more go back in the whole and must we not say in all this the word is fulfilled it hath not hitherto failed the Church but the event in every circumstance made to answer to the same Now to clear this we would consider these two First that the Churches victory over Antichrist is this day so farr advanced 2. How the Lords very immediat hand hath been most discernable therein I. The first I need but name whilest it is so manifest what the Lord hath wrought for his Church for we have seen Kingdomes and Nations subject themselves to the truth the kingdome of Antichrist grow dark with the breaking up of the light and many of his followers made to gnash their teeth being scorched with the heat and power of the gospel in how great a measure is that interest now shaken if we consider what the Lord hath wrough what a great reformation hath been in Brittain
Jreland through much of France Germany Sueden the Low Countries Pole Denemark yea even in Hungary Transilvania sure this was a great work which should be marvellous inour eyes how that Antichristian Empire contrived with such wisdome underpropt with so great strength whose commands not long since were receaved as Oracles with an avv and respect onely due to God hath in such a measure begun to fall before the power of the word O the righteous judgement of the Lord. which he hath shewed forth upon that adversary and should be a pledge to us of the further manifestation thereof an adversary we may say the greatest that ever the Church had whose little finger hath been sorer then the loins of all who went before if we consider his cruelty over mens bodyes tyrannie over their conscience with so long a continuance of that tryal in respect of whom it may be said Pharaoh was an easy taskmaster Antiochus and the Roman Emperours milde who for neer 1200 year did carry on a despeart and bloody war against the Church II. The Second which I would at some more length follow forth is this how the Lords hand and something of an extraordinary providence hath been no lesse discernable in this late raising of the Church and her begun victory over Antichrist then in the First planting of Christianity by the Apostles this is a truth which to many may seem strange but when seriously considered if prejudice do not darken mens judgement will appear from sure and solid grounds now to demonstrat this I would here offer some very convincing witnesses which may help to strengthen the faith of the Godly and give Atheisme some dash FIRST Witnes to this truth is that wonderful successe which the Gospel in these last times hath had wherein men must see the great power of God and efficacy of the Spirit in some measure as manifest as in the first rise of the Christian Church if we consider 1. From what a small spark so great a fire did break up which in a short time put Europe in a flame and made so great a change therein even Luthers appearing against Texelius upon the account of his indulgencies O but Gods time of working may be oft contraire to our time of expecting 2. What a swift progresse did the gospel have may we not say with wonder can a nation be born at once yet this we have seen how many Nations and Cityes in one and the same age yea in lesse then 40. yeares was brought in subjection to the truth and these instruments whom scarce any durst own at first made to see great Princes with armyes on the fields for the interests of Christ 3. Have we not seen Religion propagated by martyrdome no lesse then in the primitive times and mens essaies to ruin the Church helped it further to grow O what but a divine power could thus bring gold out of iron and clay bring a flowrishing Church out of their ashes and turn her poison to a preservative but alace it is sad that whilest men were burned for the truth and reading the Scripture their affection did also burn in reading the same but now with our liberty there is so great a decay 4. Must not the wise and polititians of the World confesse this late encrease of the Church is a thing above their reach most crosse to all their rules which they cannot see how in an ordinary way it could be brought about 5. Were not instruments most unlikely for so great a work if we would judge as men that such a poor handful as Luther Zuinglius Melanchton Bucere c. should go forth to confront that power which then made the earth to tremble might it not seem as improbable as the sending forth of some fisher men to subdue the Nations 6. It is knowen they were none of the Rabbies of the time whose repute and fame might have purchased easy accesse to their message nay they were loaded with all the reproach which their adversaryes could devise with novelty of doctrine deceit and falshood in their dealing represented to the World as Monsters Luther was forced to answer himselfe a printed relation of his death how he was carried away soul and body by the Devil 7. Was not the message they carried most opposit to mens carnal inclinations to these principles they had suckt in from their infancy to the religion of their Fathers yea in a word had no outward encouragements the whole World seemed to combine against them Luther at his first appearance excommunicated by the Pope proscribed by the Emperour and good Melanchton was oft made to faint when he thought on so great a speat of opposition so that without the convoy of an extraordinary power nothing could have looked more improbable SECOND Witnes that may let the World see a wonderful providence in this late raising of the Church is this these sharp assaults which the Church met with from a party no lesse cruel and powerfull then any adversary which the Church had in the primitive times for I am sure the World must confesse that no ordinary mean had wanted for an essay to crush the gospel in its first budding forth that both counsel and force the authority of law backed vvhith greatest rage and violence in its execution yea the power of the Princes of the earth was put forth to the utmost to withstand this great work of God in these last ages to clear this I shall only point at some remarkable assaults which did tryst the dauning of the gospel that may shew something above nature going alongst with it 1. We find a Spanish Emperour devoted to the popish interest more powerful then any who went before brought in on Germany with the very first breaking up of the light which might seem a dreadful let to the Gospels spreading 2. The rise of the Boores and Anabaptist party whose way being so grosse destructive to civil order to the interests and proprieties of men did look like a sad tryst and a probable mean to beget much prejudice against the truth 3. That sad overthrow of the Duke of Saxony and Landgrave of Hesse who were such great patriots to the Church did then threaten the very ruin of the Protestant interest in Germany 4. The Councel of Trent where the Popish party had all their politicks on foot in a strong combination how to ruin the Church 5. The Interim of Germany a most subtile contrivance to divide and thus break the strength of the Protestants was also a sore assault a snare to some and cause of persecution to others 6. That Spanish Inquisition established through Spain Italy and the Low Countreyes a horrid cruel engine which did reach to prevent the smallest glancings of the truth 7. The French Massacre where not only the Admiral but most of the considerable Protestants vvere through all France in a few dayes cut off O vvould not this seem an irrecoverable stroke together with that
home the truth one of the company who had some charge in the Castell fell a jearing which Mr Welsh observing and looking earnestly to him did presently close the Bible and cease and a little after having a drink in his hand he sayeth to a friend at the table before all that were present there is one so profane and grosse as to contemn and mock at the word of the Lord but ere a little God shall smite him with a remarkable stroke of his judgement which accordingly fell out to the astonishment of the company for that man did presently drop down to the ground and dyed A lady that was then Popish being present by reason of a friend of hers that was prisoner in the castle was so moved therewith that it proved an help to her after-conversion The other passage is this one Iohn Steward an eminent Christian who lived at Aire having conted to visit Mr Welsh in prison found him in a more then ordinary way troubled and sad and upon his enquiry there anent he sayeth Iohn ye should not be here go home to Aire for the plague of God is broken up in that place and cause Hew Kennedy provest of that toun who was also a very singular Christian conveeh the people to the streets and pray together and the Lord shall hear How Kennedy and remove that stroke this at the first did something astonish the said Iohn and put him to question its truth having so lately comed out of that place but at his return found it so and accordingly in every thing it fell out as the man of God had shewed After his banishment to which the King did change the sentence of death past upon him at Linlithgo he in a very short time acquired the French tongue with such a facility therein as was thought strange by these who knew it Trochrig in his Commentar on the Ephesians sets down this passage how being called to preach at Salmur a famous University yea one of the most learned auditors in France he did with such boldnes and authority preach as though he had been before the meanest congregation whereat Trochrig being astonished could not but on his acquaintance with him question him thereanent whence he had such confidence and was so little moved whilest he preached before strangers so grave and judicious an auditory and in a strange tongue to whom in a humble way as one more dejected then lifted up he gave that answer when he considered his being before the Lord and that he was delivering his message he could not regard either great or small but all flesh did then go out of his minde Whilest he was Minister at S. Jane de Angeli a protestant town in France where his Ministry was much blessed with successe the civil warres did break up where that city was twice besieged on the Protestant interest during which time these passages fell out most remarkable One was the town being fore straited and ready to be taken the enemyes having raised a battery and by a close approach had made a great breach in the wall Mr Welsh hearing thereof who had much encouraged the People that their adversaries should not then prevail went himself with the Cannonier up the walls and desired he would charge such a piece of cannon and shoot for God should direct that shot and cause it prosper which accordingly did to the astonishment of onlookers dismount that battery and the Lord so ordered things after that the King did parley on favourable termes with the city and did only himself with his court come in without doing any violence An other marvellous passage was this the following Sabbath some of the godly in that place fearing Mr Welsh his hazard did seriously deal with him that he would forbear to go forth and preach the Court being there from which he by no intreaty would be hindred but shewed them he would adventure to preach the word to his People and trust the Lord with what concerned himselfe being more grieved at their fear and despondence and that day had a very great auditory both of friends and others who come upon the fame of such a man but in time of sermon a great man of the Court with some of the Kings own guard was sent to bring him forthwith before the King and whilest he was entring the Church which had some difficulty by reason of the multitude Mr Welsh did turn himselfe toward that entry and desired the People to give way to one of the great Piers of France that was coming in but after whilest he was coming near the pulpit to execut his commission by putting force on the servant of Christ for his desisting he did with great authority speak to him before all the People and in the name of his Master Jesus Christ charged him that he would not disturb the Worship of God wherewith that man was so affrighted that he fell a shaking yea was forced to crutch down and make no further trouble A third passage no lesse remarkable was upon the close of sermon whilest Mr Welsh with much submission went to the King who was then greatly incensed and with a threatning countenance asked what he was and how he durst preach haeresy so near his person and with such contumacy carry himself to vvhich vvith due reverence howing himself he did answer I am Sir the Servant and Minister of Jesus Christ whose truth I preached this day which if your Majesty rightly knew ye would have judged it your duety to have comed your self and heard and for my doctrine I did this day preach these 3 truths to your People 1. That man is fallen and by nature in a lost condition yea by his own power and abilityes is not able to help himselfe from that estate 2. That there is no salvation or deliverance from wrath by our ovvn merits but by Jesus Christ and his merit alone 3. I did also preach this day the just liberties of the Kingdome of France that your Majesty ovveth obedience to Christ onely vvho is Head of the Church and that the Pope as he is an enemy to Christ and his truth so also to the Kings of the earth vvhom he keepeth under slavery to his usurped povver Where at the King for a time keeping silence vvith great astonishment turned to some about him and said surely this is a man of God Yea after did commun vvith him and vvith great respect dismissed him The year follovving vvhilest the differences betvvixt the King and Protestant party did grovv that city vvas again besieged taken and in part sacked as Mr Welsh did publickly foretel at vvhich time it is knovvn hovv the King past a solemn order that none should in the least vvrong Mr Welsh or any thing that belonged to him under highest paines and did after give a safe conduct to him for transporting himself to England vvhere he died King James refusing his return to his ovvn countrey though earnestly petioned by his
time for it is knovvn vvith vvhat marvellous resolution and chearfulnes these have been carried through who were called forth to resist unto the blood in their adherence to the truth witnessing to the conviction of onlookers even their greatest enemyes something above Roman Gallantry yea something above nature in that stayednes and elevation of their Spirits and as some of all rancks in the land the Lord would have brought forth to seal and witnes his truth and the work of Reformation so it hath been also clear that none wanted a large measure of support and strength for the tryall their suffering still giving a further dash to their adversaries 3. It is also manifest and may be truly matter of wonder by what a marvellous providence so many suffering and desolat familyes have been carried through without any obvious noise of their straites now for these divers yeares with such convincing chearfulnes yea the experience of many made to witnes that they never lesse knew a strait then since they were put from the ordinary meanes of their support and others who have been more sharply tryed could not reckon any such plunging strait and difficulty but have also found outgate by some remarkable providence trysted I am very sure amongst other advantages yet of these times this shall be one a large Register of Experience and remarkable confirmations of the truth of the word and promise which the godly have had under this sharp tryal that will be sweet matter for an after reckoning and a greater gain then any losse their former sufferance did occasion Yea have not seen what in an ordinary way looked as irrecoverable a stroke which a generation could not have made up hath been a mean the Lord hath choised to promote his glory and thereby declare himselfe to be God hath he not made us see how easy it is for him to turn the sharpest storm to the great advantage of his Church that he can act in desperate cases above the skill both of Angels and men and truely though we should be brought yet more low even to the place of Dragons this may uphold the shaking hearts of his People and be solid ground of confidence that Christs power and faithfulnes is this day engadged for his Church and truth he must encrease his Kingdome is upon the rising hand and shall yet have a more glorious appearance in the World what ever become of instruments the reviving of his work is not in the reverence of men and since we know the Lord hath solemnly declared war against Antichrist and all who will oppose the spreading of the Gospel in these last times yea hath past his word to the Church for the fall and ruin of that adversary fall he must though the dust of the earth should arise for that end and it is sure Prelacy must also wither that hath its life and sap from that accursed root they have this day a desperat cause in hand who do engadge their power to support the throne of the Beast for they run in the way of the wrath and vengeance of the Lord and shall surely involve themselves in that ruin though they were the greatest Princes of the earth I shall onely adde we have much ground in these times to believe that the Lord shall yet appear and make himself known in the earth by as great and convincing providences both of judgement and mercy as in any former ages and thus vindicat his glory and refute the Atheisme of this generation by such an argument as shall force iniquity to stop its mouth Now since this is sure which none can get denyed if they will but allow some serious thoughts thereanent that the Scripture falleth not to the ground for Gods way is perfect and his word is tryed Ps 18 ver 30. O is it not also sure and a conclusion well grounded that He is a buckler to those who trust in him none needs fear to venture his interests through time on the word yea if there could be any thing greater then a Heaven or eternal salvation the testimony of the God of truth might be sufficient security for the same it is a small matter how this World doth reel and stagger or what be the changes of outward things that is eneugh the promises of the Word shall certainly take place and the expectation of the Saints shall not make them ashamed FINIS For filling up some vacant pages a few Scriptures are set down pointing at the present condition or what may be apprehended to be coming concerning either sin or judgement doctrine or duty wherein each Reader is desired not so much to apply to others as to himself and not to himself but what he may be sure is his due and because there was not room for setting down the whole Texts these may be consulted and considered in the Bible only for memories cause a litle hint is given of each passage EZek. 3 17. c. 21. A Watchman to warn righteous and wicked Ierem. 1 17 18 19. Speak what I command thee iron pillar c. Amos 3 7. Secret revealed to servants the Prophets Galat. 4 16. Am I your enemy telling the truth Luk. 12 42. c. 48. Faithfull wise steward to give portion in season Ierem. 7 27 28. Speak but they will not hearken Ezek. 2 5. Whither they will hear or forebear Ezr. 7 23. Whatsoever is commanded by the God of Heaven c. Deut. 12. 32. Adde not diminish not Galat. 1 8. Who preacheth another Gospel is accursed Galat. 2 5. We gave place not for an houre Hebr. 8 5. According to pattern shewed in mount Hebr. 3 1 2. Consider Christ faithfull in his house Matth. 17 5. This is my beloved Son hear him Luk. 20 25. Give to Cesar Cesars and to God Gods Psal 2 6. I have set my King on Zion Math. 15 13 14. Every plant not planted by my Father rooted up Math. 16 12. Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees 2 King 11 17. Jehoiadah made a Covenant c. Gal. 3 15. Though a mans Covenant no man annuls Isai 24 5. Broken the everlasting Covenant Exod. 32 8. They have turned aside quickly Deut. 32 5 6. Do ye thus requite the Lord Jerem 34 18. c. 21. I will give the men that have transgressed my Covenant c. Ezek. 17 15. c. 19. Shall he break the Covenant and Prosper Prov. 20 25. It is a snare after vows to make enquiry Levit 26 25. A sword to avenge quarrel of Covenant 2 Chron. 24 17. c. 24 loash and Princes left the house of God 2 King 16 10. c. 18. Ahaz altar of Damascus Vrijah 2 Chron 13 9. Ye have cast out the Lords Priests 1 King 12 26. c. 33. Jeroboams devised worship and Priests Hos 7 3 4 5. Made glad with lies adulterers bottles of wine Hos 10 3 4 Feared not the Lord swearing falsly Zechar. 5 4. Curse in house of false swearer Malach.
doth it surpasse that of a natural man even in his best estate and I am sure this pretious study of the dayly performance of the Word is one of these pathes of pleasure which would bring in more solide joy to the spirit in some few houres then some years wallowing in the carnal delights of the flesh which is but as pleasure in sport but quickly turneth to grief in earnest it is one of the great mistakes of the World that religion tends so much to sadden and disquyet the soul nay it is certainly the want of this because we are so little truely religious when we scruffe over our duety and take but a passing look of the wayes and work of God in the World then it is indeed very affrighting and unpleasant but when in a more Christian way we doe seriously look thereupon and get our heart near God taking the Word alongst with us O how delightful and ravishing a sight will this beâ— I truely think though there were not a command though it were no duety nor such advantage in the study of this grave truth yet that joy and refreshment which the soul would find in such a diligent search in going down into this blessed deep should invite us thereto But when I speak of this what a sweet and delightful subject the performance and outmaking of the Scripture is it must be understood that it is so only to the saints and it is no wonder the World keep at such a distance with it for this is a truth they cannot bear they hate it which as Micajah doth Prophesy alwayes bad things and carrieth a message of death to them a serious look of this truth to ungodly men is as the hand witing upon the wall before them which doth foretel their approaching ruin and should cause them all tremble the knowledge whereof must encrease their sorrow and disquyetness yea cause them cry out O doe not torment us before the time for they are surely undone and ruined if the Scripture of God be true and hath a performance But O what pleasant and refreshful tydings doth this carry to a Christian What a sweet view doth he here get of the inheritance and blessed estate of the saints which may cause such ane exclamation how great is that goodnes which is laid up for these that fear thee To demonstrate this I shall hold out somethings from which we may see how delightful a subject the accomplishment of the Scripture is for a Christian to study 1. Serious converse with this grave truth leadeth forward to practice and thus helpeth to bring down theory to experience which is the most sweet and desireable of all other demonstrations that we can have of the truth of the Scripture and maketh our light clear and pleasant to the taste turning the exercise of our judgement and reason thereanent into sense and feeling we are then made to see what a difference there is betwixt that discovery which a spiritual man whose religion is his practice hath of this and the cold winter-light of a natural understanding that hath no heat or warmenes therewith which is as great a difference as betwixt hearing of such a thing by report and seeing it with our eyes 2. This blessed study hovv the Scripture hath certain accomplishment vvould help to read the Word vvith an other kinde of pleasure O vvhat representation should then the truths and promises thereof have to the godly man it vvould be as one going in to look over his charters and the great things therein contained vvhich he doth not in the least debat or question since they are past the seals and fully ratifyed and novv considereth all vvhich is promised as his own vvhich he lookt in former times upon but as a common thing vvhilst he made not earnest of the certainty thereof and vvhat an intrest he had in the same O when he readeth that promise of a new heaven and earth that glorious estate which abideth the Saints He cannot turn his eyes thoughts so easily off it but is made to stand vvonder that so great a thing that vvill make such a mervellous change in his condition is even shortly to come to passe hovv svveet and pleasant is it for such to turn over these promises vvho can set to his seal and bear this vvitnes that he hath as really proven the truth thereof by sure experience as he knovveth he hath a real being surely the Bible is an other thing to these then it is to the great part of men vvho only make it the subject of their contemplation 3. In this blessed study vve should have much laid to our hand to observe and our observation made svveet and pleasant to us for there vve might see hovv all the paths of the Lord tovvards his People are mercy and truth this vvould give us a refreshful diary of providence hovv in such a plunging strait we found the Word sensibly sealed vvhat observable confirmations vve have had therevvith at such a time and in such a condition the after-recounting of vvhich in ane houre of tryal or in the evening of our life vvould exceed these greatest pleasures the Men of this World can have in looking over their gold and greatest treasures which for many yeares they have been laying up 4. In the serious study of the dayly accomplishing of the Scripture we should have a most satisfying vievv and prospect of vvhat God is doing up and down the Earth vvhat purposes and designes he hath on foot and hovv things here beneath do vvork together for carrying on of the same vve should see vvhat an excellent and curious piece of vvork this frame of providence is vvhich the more it is considered it vvill be the more a vvonder hovv perfect in all its parts hovv compact and vvell set in all its various collours what an observable concurrence there is there hovv these several discords vvhich vve see here do yet aggree vvith one consent for the compleeting of Gods design vvhich is still going on and vvhilst vve think there must be some disorder amongst the vvheells vve are made after to see that this confusion vvas an excellent step of providence confounding the vvisdome of men every piece of his vvav being so knit to another as discovers to such who make this blessed truth their serious study a most rare contexture beyond the reach and uptaking of the greatest Artists that ever was Here also we might go up to that watch-tower of Christian observation and from thence take a grave look of Gods way and lay his work in the World to the Scripture as the measuring lyne where we should see and find the sight thereof very pleasant how the Word every day takes place doth ishue through all the veines and arteries of providence each line whereof is so exactly drawen as by a pincel in some skillfull hand to that great exemplar of the Scripture here we might discern these eminent examples
of judgement and mercy that in every age are set before us how wicked men prosper for a time yet have a dreadful ishue and are suddenly cast into destruction they spread as a green bay tree and within a little their place cannot be found how the godly are oft sore afflicted yet flowrishing as the palme tree and the more they are depressed the more they grow how the enemies of the Church are oft lifted up for a sorer fall and the Church brought low in order to her greater enlargement how judgement findeth out sinners is oft exactly proportioned in measure and kinde to the sin and on the other hand how integrity is sore tossed oft yet still falleth upon its feet overclouded that it may shine more brightly after how the threatnings of the Word do visibly overtake Kingdomes nations bring down great houses causeth the scarlet embrace the dunghil letteth not the hoary head of cruel wicked men goe oft into the grave in peace again to consider how the Lord forsaketh not his People but sheweth respect to their way the good man walketh in his integrity and his seed after him is blessed O how sweet an exercise were this for a Christian even to losse himself in 5. From thence we might in a great measure discern what of the night it is with the Church if there be any evidences that it is neer day and what such a sinful case doth threaten we would be skilful to feell the Churches pulse and thereby find what symptomes there are of life or death and perceave a dark cloud of judgement casting up when it is but like an handbreadth surely this study should make us wise to know the tymes and what we ought to do therein for amongst these various events which fall out in every age the Lords way is constant with itselfe and vvith his truth if we be right on lookers 6. Here we should have a most pleasant and clear view how the Seripture of God comprehendeth the whole state of the Church from the beginning to the end of time that it is a most full and perfect register of all the vicissitudes and alterations which are to go over her head whilst in a militant condition and doth also most exactly point out these occurrences and remarkable events which fall out in the ordinary way and course of providence that we may read them as evidently in the Word as we see them with our eyes fall out in the World for in following this study vve should clearly see hovv the Scripture bringeth the Church to light out of the vvomb of an eternal decree and doth trace it from the first promulgation of the Gospel after the fall throvv these dark times before the stood vvhilst it vvas but in families and through that long tryal in Egypt and all its ill journey in the vvildernes untill it bring it to it s seâ—led and flovvrishing condition in Canaan and carryeth her sordward through all the several changes of her case under her following decay and in the times of the captivity even to the manifestation of Christ and dawning of the gospel and as it thus taketh in within its reach the whole estate and the special events which did befall the Church under the Law so we may see how the Scripture also followeth the Church through the wholl time of the gospel and bringeth her as a grain of mustard seed from a day of small things until it bring her to perfection taketh her as it were by the hand from her infancy and goeth with her through all the turnings of her condition through that long and dark night of Antichrists reign pointeth clearly out her condition and various assaults that shee should endure in that time and that blessed victory which shee should after have though not all at once but gradually over her enemyes and that the Word and the Church do never part but one walketh step for step with the other until it bring her safe to land and as it were put her of its hand and guard at the comming of Christ 7. This would also help us to sweet thoughts and give us matter of a song in the saddest night of the Churches condition when we see how Gods great design in the World is the accomplishing of the Scripture and know that his ends which he hath held forth therein cannot be frustrat it would serve to silence all our complaints with wondering at Gods vvay and triumphing in the vvorks of his hands vve should not then be affrayd of evill tydings a stormy time vvould not outvvit us being persvvaded that though the earth should be overturned it shall be surely vvell vvith the righteous the Church must flovvrish and all her enemyes be found lyars because he is faithful that hath promised vvhose Word vvill as surely come to passe as the sun doth return after a dark night VII It doth now more especially concern the godly in these latter times to study this great truth of the accomplishment of the Scripture and set about a serious inquiry and search therein as a truth that shall yet be in a further measure discovered and opened up the nearer the Church is to the end of tyme vvhich may thus appear 1. Herein is the Word express that one piece of the Scripture vvhich from former ages vvas sealed up should in the latter dayes be clear and easy to understand Dan lastch 4 9. ver the seal is there put on but go thy vvay Daniel for these Words are closed and sealed to the time of the end but Rev. last Ch. and ver 9. We have that bar taken of seal not the sayings of the Prophecy of this book for the time is at hand because then the time did dravv near to vvhich a more full discovery and opening up of the Scripture vvas reserved a more large manifestation of the spirit beyond former ages Novv by the last dayes vve are not only to understand the vvhole time of the gospel though it is thus tearmed in the Scripture but the latter part of these last times vvhich is more especially pointed at even the close and evening of time that last Epocha and period of prophetick chronology to vvhich a greateâ— accomplishment of Scripture Prophecies is reserved 2. This also is expresly promised that in the latter dayes the Chnrch shall have a more full discovery of this truth hovv the Scripture is verified Dan. last Ch. v. 4. many shall run to and fro and knovvledge shali be increased vvhich increase as it clearly pointeth at the last times and that bright day the Church shall have when Israel shall be brought in to Christ it doth also point at and promise some greater light and a more full opening up of the mysteries of the Word and fulfilling thereof for the former part of the Chapter sheweth that increase of knowledge doth relate to these things which were before sealed we wait and believe the further accomplishment
are resisting to the blood doth not this speak forth something beyond the gallantry of a natural spirit that far exceedeth the ordinary way of men and is a thing the world cannot reach yet cannot but wonder and whither they will or not see Gods very immediat help and hand in the same according to his word 3. Is it not seen how the cheerful way of the Godly under suffering while there is no outward ground for the same doth not only astonish but is an exceeding torment to adversaries when they are forced to see how all their endeavours when their wrath and malice hath been to the outmost put forth have yet been in vain either to turn them aside or to ruine their encouragement but that the most sharp snfferings of the Godly doe still give them the sorest dash help to strengthen others and justify Gods way and that tender respect he hath to his suffering people even before all onlookers 4. Is iâ—â—â—t also manifest that such whose natural disposition was known to be very fainting and timorous yet when called to suffer for the truth have without the least appearance of discouragement showed an invincible resolution and not only their own feares but the exspectation of others hath a marvellous disappointment O is there not there a visible fulfilling of the Scripture that shaking reeds should be made to stand where strongest cedars have bowed yea some of very mean and ordinary parts have been so discernably raised above themselves as they were made to confound the wise and learned 5. Must it not be confessed that the zeal and resolution of the saints did never more appear then in times of greatest opposition that at no time they have looked more like Christians with more advantage and with some peculiar beauty and lustre of the grace of God then under suffering a thing which as it eminently doth commend the gospel hath also so far convinced their enemyes as in some measure it hath blunted their edge and taken off their prejudice against the way of God and followers thereof 6. I may appeal the greatest Atheists to their conscience if any moral arguments what ever influence they may have upon mens patient enduring could ever produce such effects as rejoycing in triumph over chooling affliction before sin and all its pleasures to triumph over persecutors and to go with such a calme and chearfulnes to a scaffold to sing amidst a dark prison yea and to abound and have all things under greatest wants O! whence is this sure something above nature must be here that is stronger then moral reasons by which the Saints have thus overcome the world yea is it not obvious to all who look on how great a difference there is betwixt the pretended resolution of a natural spirit in death and suffering and that joy and confidence of a Christian which hath then shewed in the composure and tranquillity of their soul within The one being but a dark shadow and the other drawn to the life SIXTH That there is a conscience within men whose power both as a judge and witnes doth answer that clear discovery the Scripture giveth thereof Rom 2 ver 15. Ioh. 8 ver 9. is a thing obvious even to the world which they must needs confesse both from its visible effects on others and the working thereof within themselves that herein the Word is verifyed these things make it clear and undenyable 1. That sure there is something within which thus maketh men affrayed to be alone with themselves yea will cause them go abroad and frame diversions to be out of its noise must it not be sad earnest which hath so dreadful a sound in their ear doth haunt the wicked man whither he will or not Wherewith he would gladly be at peace but amidst his greatest mirth and prosperity this doth mingle his wine with gall and wormwood 2. Is it not also sure that men have oft an accuser within their breast while they seem to brave it out before orhers whose judgment and sentence they can by no meanes decline but after the committing of sin yea on the back of their sinful pleasures doth follow the same with a bitter sting and ring this dreadful knell in their ear that in the end their way will be bitterness O! is not this an accusing conscience which doth begin the torment of some before the time 3. What is it that should make mens guilt so legible oft in their countenance even when they studle most to conceale it and thus cause them give their tongue the lye yea bewray to bystanders whither they will or not some secret trouble and sore they have whithin doth it not clearly shew the power of the conscience which hath such authority on men that without violence or constraint from others doth even force them to confesse the truth and supply the room of witnesses 4. Whence is it some are so much disquieted for secret sins which the eyes of others could not reach yea thaâ— some grosse sins even the most profligat amongst men have an horrour at them without respect to outward hazard doth it not shew the power of a natural conscience that holdeth forth a greater party then the world with which they have to do to whom all things are manifest and some greater witness then that of man 5. How is it that even greatest men whom the world could not reach and in the midst of all probable advantages have yet often most affrighting thoughts much terrour and disquieting reflexions must it not be from within which doth cause them fear an other power then that of the world and a judgement greater then of men 6. What must it be which doth force men to justify God when his hand doth pursue them and maketh them so easily find out sin in a time of their strait why is the sense of guilt so every affrighting at death is it not the conscience which doth presage a future judgement and extend its power to matters of an everlasting concernment and duration 7. What should make men tremble at the word and so much hate a searching ministery is it not because the Light doth torment them though the word doth particularly name none but that there is something within which maketh application of the truth and doth plainly say thou art the man 8. How doe the worst of men oft justify these in secret whom they openly have condemned that while they are even persecuting the saints for truth and holines yet for these they give them and their way a favorable testimony over the belly of all their prejudices yea what is it that doth cause a secret fear and awful regard of such whom they hate doth it not shew something within whose judgement they are not able to resist 9. I must furder ask vvhence is that horrour and these dreadful cryes and groans vvhich vvicked men oft have in their sickness even such vvho vvere vvont to sport at sin vvith a daring countenance
can the vvorld get this past vvithout some remark hovv intollerable a thing an evil conscience is vvhen once let loose vvhen in all ages such terrifying examples of this kinde have been set up for all that past by to look on such as Spira Latomus Olivarius c and truly I think it is a great want there should not be a more particular record of such vvhich vvould give Atheisme so great a dash yea force men to confesse the truth of a Deity and of the vvritten vvord SEVENTH That there is a reward for the righteous and unquestionable gain in Godlines in a piece of the Scripture not only well known and witnessed to the observing Christian in his experience but is also held forth in every age as in great letters to the view of the world Ps. 58 ver 11. Ps. 97 ver 11. Isâ— 3 ver 10. It is true that the Christians lot is oft followed with much trouble and sometimes with los of his life which may seem to have a very dismal aspect for that great goodnes which the man who feareth God hath ensured to him is much laid up in another world but it is also sure that there are such notour convincing proofes of this truth held forth even to the observation of men by which the Lord hath in every age confirmed the same that I am sure the greatest Atheist cannot ansvver even these things 1. That this is the very dictate of a natural conscience not only that God is bnt that he is a revvardeâ— of such as serve him yea none amongst men are so grosse or bruttish which are not in some measure principled to difference betwixt good and evill with some fear of a punishment to the one and some hope of recompence to the other and are also forced to notice some more signal and convincing examples vvhich have been of that kinde in their time 2. Must we not say yea doth not the World â—ee in every age that history of Joseph in some part acted over again Sure there have not been wanting many such remarkable instances wherein it might be easy to trace an upright and straight vvalk through a very maze and laâ—â—inâ—h of changes and to shovv hovv that hath been their condition and at last integrity hath brought them to land in to a comfortable harbour yea how often they have had a marvellous unlooked for outgate contrary to all humane appearance this indeed is no Romance but a most true history which through all times and many examples might be written of the Word and providence which should surpasse the richest fancy that any fiction or romance did ever contain 3. Must it not be convincing even to the worst of men what a visible blessing doth oft follow the mean lot of some of the Saints vvhich can make their little reach far and cause them abound more in their poverty then others amidst their aboundance vvhich I think the vvorld cannot shun to observe and gather that there is sure something else then mens ovvn care vvhich doth their busines and hovv that ordinary proverbe falleth not to the ground that it is better to be happy then vvise vvhen they see a secret judgment blovv upon some mens estate that no meanes can prevent and a secret blessing vvhich maketh things prosper and take effect and doth accompany the Christians little so as it may be easy for such vvho looke abroad to see where real contentement vvith chearfulnes and giving of thanks useth to dwel 4. May not the vvorld seâ— there is a feast in a good conscience how litle soever they â—artake of the World that vvell doing and the practise of godliness hath some present revvard in its hand vvhereas so remakable a difference may be discerned betvvixt the countenance and carriage of such and of them vvho trust in falsehood that surely in a time of strait these have another kinde of security and confidence when greatest natural spirits fail yea that these alone can enjoy themselves have the most calm and composed spirits amidst the several changes of their life that according to outward things their peace doth not ebb nor flow but they are at a seen advantage above others in the day when men are sore outwitted with their straites so as it will be most easy then to see the good and advantage of religion when the vanity of other advantages is most discernable 5. Is it not also seen that true honour doth truely vvait on humility follovveth such but it fleeth from them who doe most persue it yea that faithfulnes and an upright vvalk vvill gain credit even amongst her enemyes and respect before the World 6. That these vvho are faithful in their litle and diligent improvers of a small talent have usually more added vvith some discernable grouth follovving the same and as the drying up of the parts of some as a judgement on unfaithfulnes is oft obvious so also such a blessing upon serious diligence as hath made the last first and even outrun such vvho vvere once before them yea it is truely seen hovv grace helpeth mens gifts doth raise and sublimat their spirits above that vvhich once they vvere 7. Doth not the Lord put some visible difference oft betvvixt the righteous and the vvicked in a time of comon calamityâ— that a strange outgate vvith the concurrence of very marvellous providences doth sometime tryst such even to the convictions of onlookers vvhich may tell the World such have had an invisible hedge of preservation about them and have been under some better care then their ovvn 8. What a clear vvitness doe ungodly men oft bear to this truth at their death or at some other strait so that their conscience hath forced them to justify the godly mens choice and to say that the lot of such is onely most desireable yea vvith much bitternes to lament their folly that made not religion more their business the good and advantage vvhereof is novv no matter of debate sure the World vvill confesse hovv oft the confession and testimony of such men to this truth hath reached their ear 9. I shall but adde that vvhich is so very manifest hovv faithfulnes and integrity doth transmit mens name vvith more honour yea maketh it have a svveeter savour in their generations then either riches or outvvard preferment yea that there is a great difference betvvixt the memoriall of the righteous and the wicked even to the conviction of the world EIGHT That verily there is a God who judgeth in the earth Ps 58 ver 11. who doth render unto men vengeance and doth pursue the transgressour because of sin is a truth which the world hath in every age by many convincing instances held forth to them where they may see the Scripture clearly verifyed I have a litle touched this in the second Argument how the accomplishing of Scripture threatnings is witnessed to the observation of the Church and to these who are wise to discern the times
That such signes and prodigies have been in every age visible to the World experience and the gravest histories both of auncient and later times do fully witnes 2. That such things should also be previous to great revolutions in the World we know the Scripture is most expresse Ioel 2 ver 30. Luk. 21 ver 11. And as we should guard against any sinperstitious respect we would also bevvare of stupid Atheistical inadvertency at these strange works of the Lord which call both for fear and observation 3. That such have been usually previous to great calamities and judgements on a People is a thing that all ages must witness even these who have been most cautious and discerning in their time who could not shun this as a remark Herodotus doth set that down as a think most sure in his sixth Boek Cum Deus puniturus est gentem urbem prodigiis id solet â—ignificare and Lucan could tell what went before the Romans civill wares Superique minaces Prodigiis terras implerunt yea it can hardly be instanced any great change or revolution in the earth which hath not had some such extraordinary Herald going before 4. Can the World deny how sometimes these prodigious signes have been shaped out to point at the very nature of the stroke then imminent by a strange resemblance to the same such as a flaming sword in the air the appearance of armyes fighting even sometimes upon the earth to the view of many most sober and judicious onlookers also showers of blood the noise of Drummes and such like which are known usually to go before warr and commotions NINTH That there are evil spirits Eph. 6 12. Rev. 20 ver 2 3. and a Diabolical power such as the Scripture hath held forth whose constant work is the ruin and undoing of man is a truth not only witnessed from that experience Christians have of their assaults but is undenyable by the world and greatest Athiests except they deny the discovery of sense as well as reason I confesse it may cause fear and astonishment to think on this that spirits so knowing and once originally excellent have fallen thus into such an height of indignation against infinit goodnesse that it is now their only aim and pleasure to dishonor God and destroy his image in man It should indeed cause us fear him that spared not the Angels who sinned But the truth it selfe is sure that such a party is at this day encompassing the earth and trafficking up and down there to prove which by arguments were to light a candle to let men see that it is day while it is known what ordinary familiar converse many have therewith and alace too easy to discern that power which the prince of this world hath upon the children of disobedience how obvious are the marks of his conquest almost every where Thousands lying in his chaines how far do we see many transformed even to the very image of the Devil which in these desperat prodigious acts of wickednes that are oft in the world may appear such whereat we should think humane nature though corrupt could not but tremble yea look on with horrour how many in all ages have even been in an expresse covenant with them and is not there a great part of the earth where the Devil is visibly and audibly known where he hath a kind of neighbourhood with men But there being no need for such a demonstraâ—ion I onely here aim to hold forth what a concerning truth this is and of great consequence if seriously considered yea how both the Scripture and Christian Religion is hereby evidently confirmed since these things must necessarly follow 1. That in this the Scripture is truely fulfilled which doth witnes what these Spirits are adversaries to man in their nature and inclination desperatly evill whose actings in the earth have a visible tendency to mens hurt and ruin yea their pretended favours alwayes directed to that end whence we see such a natural inbred horrour which is in man against them 2. That it is no common thing which they so much pursue something more pretious then the body for which so great and cruel an adversary is in continuall labour for their actings have no such tendency to ruin mens estate in the World no it is most evident this is the soul the immortal soul to undoe them in that great interest wich is the mark whereaâ— they level that poor man might be sharer of that misery under which they are concluded 3. Is it not an undenyable consequence of this truth that there must be an invisible World that hath inhabitants of another kinde then such as are here that sure there is some being above man yea a real correspondence betwixt men and Spirits and should not man thus placed in a middle estate betwixt the Angels and the beasts here below partaking in his body with the one but in his reasonable soul with the other thence raise himselfe to thoughts of some more excellent condition for which he is framed then a sensual life and that surely the soul hath an interest in an other world which he should most look after 4. Must not this also be sure that there is an invisible guard and these desperat Spirits are under restraint by a power stronger then they which can bound their malice for this may be certain that these who have so great enmity to man are so near and have such advantages over us could not keep at such a distance but that they are keept in chaines by a higher power 5. How is it that now by the Gospel and within this precinct of the Church Sathans power is so much restrained in respect of former times while it is known what a familiar converse they had with men did even haunt their houses and were so publick in their appearance under such names of Fairies and Brounies which since the breaking up of the light of the Gospel hath not been yea hath not the Devil to this day an open throne and dominion in these parts of the earth where Christ is not worshiped it is also known how the oracles of old did cease and that publick worship which the world for many ages had given them with the very time of Christs apearance and breaking up of the Gospel these night beasts getting to their dennes when once the day was broke up Plutarch and other heathen writers are a witnes to this 6. Whence is it that within the Church where Sathan is most restrained yet there he doth more stur then in all the world besids Doth it not shew that that is the party with which he is at war hence doth he more rage the more clear the light shineth yea is there not seen something besids mens natural enemity at the truth even a fury and violence wherewith some are visibly driven in their actings with such an unsatiable cruelry against the followers of Christ without the least shadow of provocation as holds