from_o he_o in_o fatherly_a wrath_n yet_o must_v he_o not_o yield_v to_o the_o weaken_n of_o his_o faith_n but_o rather_o yet_o more_o humble_a himself_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o sin_n which_o have_v stir_v up_o wrath_n against_o he_o and_o fly_v in_o to_o christ_n and_o lie_v hold_v more_o close_o upon_o his_o grace_n because_o god_n be_v offend_v be_v not_o pacify_v nor_o please_v save_v only_o by_o fly_v in_o tâ—_n jesus_n christ._n quest._n ii_o q._n but_o what_o will_v you_o say_v unto_o they_o who_o confidence_n be_v weaken_v whether_o they_o will_v or_o not_o whensoever_o they_o apprehend_v god_n angry_a against_o they_o and_o especial_o when_o they_o feel_v that_o god_n be_v provoke_v just_o remove_v gift_n and_o benefit_n comfortable_a from_o they_o ans._n it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v doubt_v that_o the_o confidence_n of_o many_o true_a convert_n be_v shake_v and_o weaken_v in_o this_o case_n but_o the_o question_n be_v what_o shall_v be_v say_v unto_o they_o we_o answer_v that_o they_o must_v acknowledge_v that_o they_o have_v lean_v too_o much_o upon_o these_o carnal_a prop_n the_o fail_v whereof_o make_v they_o to_o fall_v 2._o let_v they_o be_v humble_v yet_o more_o because_o of_o such_o sin_n as_o have_v provoke_v god_n to_o change_v his_o dispensation_n towards_o they_o 3._o let_v they_o lean_v more_o upon_o the_o only_a rock_n of_o free_a grace_n in_o jesus_n christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n for_o the_o comfort_n and_o relief_n of_o all_o those_o who_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o unworthiness_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o ill_a deserve_n and_o of_o any_o measure_n of_o apparent_a fatherly_a wrath_n that_o hereafter_o however_o it_o fair_a with_o they_o they_o may_v rely_v upon_o jesus_n christ_n who_o be_v the_o only_a foundation_n to_o build_v ourselves_o upon_o and_o who_o grace_n be_v sufficient_a to_o help_v and_o uphold_v they_o who_o have_v their_o recourse_n unto_o he_o in_o every_o condition_n whether_o it_o be_v adversity_n or_o prosperity_n quest._n iii_o q._n albeit_o common_a benefit_n be_v not_o sufficient_a evidence_n of_o god_n favour_n yet_o new_a obedience_n of_o faith_n and_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v sure_a sign_n of_o god_n special_a favour_n bestow_v only_o on_o the_o elect_a see_v then_o as_o these_o sign_n when_o they_o be_v present_a serve_v much_o for_o the_o strengthen_n of_o faith_n so_o also_o when_o they_o be_v amiss_v have_v as_o great_a force_n of_o reason_n to_o debilitat_fw-la faith_n yea_o see_v faith_n without_o fruit_n be_v dead_a may_v it_o not_o be_v conclude_v where_o no_o fruit_n be_v no_o faith_n be_v ans._n if_o the_o question_n be_v of_o the_o universal_a want_n of_o all_o fruit_n of_o faith_n such_o as_o be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o all_o unrenewed_a man_n who_o fruit_n can_v be_v good_a so_o long_o as_o the_o tree_n be_v evil_a who_o seem_a service_n can_v be_v acceptable_a so_o long_o as_o they_o remain_v unreconciled_a to_o god_n through_o christ_n let_v the_o question_n be_v yield_v unto_o but_o we_o be_v speak_v of_o the_o true_a convert_n in_o who_o there_o be_v a_o miss_v of_o the_o measure_n of_o former_o feel_v fruit_n and_o that_o in_o the_o time_n present_a wherein_o by_o some_o temptation_n or_o trial_n their_o faith_n be_v sift_v and_o winnow_v and_o here_o indeed_o there_o be_v a_o vast_a difference_n between_o they_o that_o be_v never_o humble_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o sin_n nor_o lead_v for_o relief_n from_o sin_n and_o misery_n unto_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o true_a convert_n who_o have_v renounce_v the_o work_n of_o darkness_n and_o have_v flee_v unto_o christ_n and_o consecrate_v himself_o to_o his_o service_n and_o who_o be_v set_v upon_o a_o new_a course_n of_o life_n have_v bring_v forth_o new_a fruit_n of_o repentance_n faith_n love_n and_o hope_n and_o have_v feel_v consolation_n in_o this_o course_n and_o now_o under_o exercise_n of_o conscience_n look_v upon_o himself_o as_o barren_a ground_n do_v lament_v his_o impotency_n to_o bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n and_o while_o he_o be_v under_o this_o exercise_n live_v in_o a_o sad_a condition_n blameless_a and_o free_a of_o scandal-giving_a great_a odds_n between_o this_o man_n and_o a_o man_n yet_o in_o nature_n we_o grant_v in_o the_o unrenewed_a man_n who_o be_v a_o stranger_n to_o the_o life_n of_o grace_n and_o true_a godliness_n the_o sentence_n hold_v no_o fruit_n no_o faith_n but_o as_o for_o the_o convert_n who_o have_v have_v comfort_n in_o christ_n and_o bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n in_o some_o measure_n he_o must_v not_o reason_n from_o his_o present_a dead_a condition_n feel_v and_o lament_a barrenness_n to_o the_o deny_v of_o true_a faith_n in_o christ_n or_o to_o the_o weaken_n of_o his_o say_v or_o mar_v his_o confidence_n further_o then_o to_o acknowledge_v he_o have_v lean_v too_o much_o on_o his_o former_o feel_a fruit_n and_o have_v not_o ground_v himself_o whole_o on_o christ_n and_o the_o rock_n of_o free_a grace_n in_o he_o but_o may_v and_o shall_v maintain_v his_o faith_n in_o christ_n against_o his_o discouragement_n that_o he_o may_v be_v enable_v to_o bring_v forth_o more_o ripe_a and_o abundant_a fruit_n quest._n iu._n q._n but_o what_o shall_v be_v say_v to_o humble_a convert_n who_o look_v to_o the_o holy_a law_n of_o god_n and_o find_v no_o fruit_n such_o as_o shall_v be_v do_v pass_v sentence_n in_o the_o time_n of_o tentation_n upon_o all_o their_o work_n as_o unworthy_a of_o the_o name_n of_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o then_o do_v dispute_v against_o their_o own_o faith_n by_o the_o apostle_n word_n jam._n 2._o 20._o faith_n without_o work_n be_v dead_a ans._n if_o the_o conscience_n do_v pronounce_v according_a to_o the_o truth_n as_o the_o mater_fw-la be_v indeed_o it_o can_v be_v deny_v but_o faith_n without_o work_n be_v dead_a and_o god_n be_v great_a than_o the_o conscience_n and_o know_v all_o thing_n but_o when_o the_o conscience_n be_v mislead_v by_o a_o tentation_n powerful_o press_v in_o by_o satan_n in_o the_o time_n of_o some_o sad_a affliction_n and_o appearance_n of_o god_n displeasure_n the_o testimony_n of_o the_o conscience_n be_v not_o a_o sufficient_a proof_n to_o infer_v so_o hard_a a_o conclusion_n for_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v ofttimes_o that_o the_o convert_n who_o live_v blameless_o and_o entertain_v the_o love_n and_o purpose_n of_o well-doing_n in_o his_o heart_n follow_v the_o exercise_n of_o religion_n constant_o be_v not_o negligent_a in_o his_o call_n and_o be_v ready_a upon_o occasion_n offer_v to_o let_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o love_n to_o his_o neighbour_n for_o all_o this_o sometime_o walk_v in_o darkness_n and_o under_o desertion_n see_v no_o light_n as_o isaiah_n 50._o 10._o in_o this_o case_n it_o may_v be_v he_o set_v all_o his_o work_n at_o nought_o as_o no_o way_n answerable_a to_o the_o lord_n law_n i_o see_v nothing_o say_v he_o but_o sin_n in_o i_o i_o see_v no_o fruit_n of_o true_a faith_n in_o i_o i_o feel_v no_o operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o i_o save_o the_o work_n of_o convince_a i_o of_o sin_n and_o unrighteousness_n in_o this_o case_n we_o must_v not_o give_v credit_n to_o the_o afflict_a but_o convince_v he_o rather_o of_o his_o error_n and_o in_o special_a of_o his_o lean_v too_o much_o weight_n on_o his_o work_n before_o this_o sad_a exercise_n fall_v upon_o he_o for_o when_o a_o convert_n maintain_v his_o faith_n in_o christ_n only_o so_o oft_o and_o so_o long_o as_o he_o find_v in_o himself_o the_o fruit_n of_o new_a obedience_n but_o when_o he_o have_v new_a experience_n of_o the_o power_n of_o the_o body_n of_o death_n and_o find_v the_o course_n of_o good_a behaviour_n and_o bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n to_o be_v interrupt_v in_o himself_o incontinent_a he_o resile_n from_o his_o confidence_n such_o a_o man_n certain_o give_v evidence_n that_o he_o have_v rely_v too_o much_o on_o his_o former_a feel_a righteousness_n an_o himself_o for_o he_o do_v as_o if_o he_o dare_v not_o for_o sin_n approach_v unto_o christ_n and_o so_o he_o fall_v in_o peter_n case_n who_o look_v on_o his_o own_o sinfulness_n and_o the_o brightness_n of_o christ_n godhead_n shine_v in_o a_o recent_a miracle_n cry_v out_o luke_n 5._o 8._o depart_n from_o i_o o_o lord_n i_o be_o a_o sinful_a man_n for_o peter_z in_o this_o case_n do_v forget_v christ_n mediatory_a office_n and_o that_o he_o stand_v so_o much_o the_o more_o need_n of_o christ_n draw_v near_a to_o he_o as_o he_o be_v a_o man_n convince_v of_o sinfulness_n another_o answer_n we_o give_v to_o this_o question_n the_o afflict_a person_n must_v not_o think_v that_o he_o want_v altogether_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n albeit_o he_o find_v they_o to_o be_v short_a of_o the_o
conscience_n and_o feel_v wrath_n pursue_v i_o for_o sin_n may_v be_v clear_a to_o i_o by_o its_o own_o light_n and_o scriptural_a evidence_n albeit_o it_o be_v possible_o the_o very_a instant_n of_o my_o conversion_n i_o can_v produce_v any_o fruit_n or_o evidence_n of_o my_o conversion_n past_a or_o else_o what_o shall_v be_v say_v of_o malefactor_n on_o the_o scaffold_n present_o to_o be_v put_v to_o death_n and_o possible_o not_o waken_v in_o conscience_n before_o not_o flee_v to_o christ_n before_o what_o shall_v be_v say_v of_o sick_a person_n near_o unto_o death_n who_o be_v self-condemned_n do_v betake_v themselves_o in_o their_o last_o agony_n unto_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n offer_v to_o self-condemned_n sinner_n in_o the_o gospel_n 2._o i_o must_v put_v difference_n between_o a_o reason_n to_o prove_v that_o i_o have_v believe_v and_o a_o reason_n why_o i_o may_v and_o must_v now_o believe_v the_o reason_n to_o prove_v that_o i_o have_v believe_v be_v from_o the_o effect_n to_o prove_v the_o cause_n thereof_o to_o wit_n faith_n to_o be_v in_o i_o but_o the_o reason_n why_o i_o may_v now_o and_o must_v believe_v be_v from_o the_o cause_n to_o infer_v the_o effect_n that_o shall_v be_v in_o i_o the_o cause_n of_o believe_v in_o christ_n be_v god_n command_n to_o self-condemned_n sinner_n which_o command_n i_o must_v now_o obey_v leave_v i_o perish_v and_o so_o if_o i_o find_v fruit_n i_o prove_v i_o have_v believe_v because_o i_o feel_v the_o love_n of_o god_n shed_v abroad_o in_o my_o heart_n and_o that_o i_o love_v god_n who_o have_v free_o love_v i_o and_o here_o i_o reason_n from_o the_o effect_n to_o prove_v that_o the_o cause_n of_o this_o fruit_n to_o wit_n saâ—ing_v faith_n have_v precede_v and_o be_v go_v before_o again_o i_o prove_v that_o i_o shall_v believe_v because_o the_o offer_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o of_o free_a grace_n in_o christ_n make_v to_o all_o self-condemned_n person_n renounce_v confidence_n in_o their_o own_o worth_n or_o work_n be_v make_v to_o i_o with_o a_o command_n to_o believe_v in_o the_o son_n of_o god_n christ_n jesus_n for_o which_o cause_n i_o may_v and_o aught_o to_o cast_v myself_o upon_o his_o grace_n who_o justify_v the_o ungodly_a fly_v to_o he_o without_o the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n 3._o i_o must_v put_v difference_n between_o my_o have_a fruit_n of_o faith_n in_o i_o and_o my_o observe_n and_o find_v these_o fruit_n in_o i_o for_o a_o true_a convert_n may_v have_v both_o faith_n and_o fruit_n and_o for_o the_o time_n be_v under_o trial_n and_o temptation_n may_v be_v so_o darken_v that_o he_o can_v see_v nothing_o in_o himself_o but_o sin_n and_o apparent_a wrath_n pursue_v he_o for_o sin_n as_o may_v be_v see_v in_o jonah_n in_o the_o belly_n of_o the_o fish_n jonah_n 2._o 4._o and_o david_n ps._n 51_o 9_o 10._o 4._o i_o must_v put_v difference_n between_o my_o persuasion_n that_o i_o have_v be_v and_o be_o a_o true_a convert_n and_o a_o sincere_a believer_n and_o my_o persuasion_n that_o i_o have_v right_a reason_n and_o good_a warrant_n to_o believe_v in_o christ_n in_o my_o low_a condition_n howsoever_o than_o i_o find_v myself_o empty_v of_o all_o sign_n of_o save_a grace_n in_o i_o for_o the_o time_n yet_o my_o persuasion_n that_o i_o shall_v in_o this_o sad_a condition_n fly_v to_o christ_n and_o believe_v in_o he_o do_v serve_v to_o make_v i_o consent_v hearty_o unto_o the_o offer_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n in_o christ_n do_v serve_v to_o make_v way_n for_o my_o justification_n and_o lose_v all_o doubt_n and_o objection_n of_o satan_n tempt_v i_o to_o mis-believe_a and_o to_o run_v away_o from_o christ_n and_o the_o offer_a mercy_n in_o he_o 5._o and_o last_o of_o all_o i_o must_v put_v difference_n between_o make_v use_n of_o good_a fruit_n bring_v forth_o by_o i_o for_o confirmation_n of_o my_o faith_n and_o my_o put_a confidence_n in_o or_o lay_v weight_n on_o these_o good_a fruit_n for_o many_o true_a convert_n do_v here_o fail_v and_o do_v not_o mark_v the_o mistake_n for_o when_o they_o find_v love_n to_o god_n and_o his_o saint_n with_o fear_n and_o holy_a reverence_n and_o such_o other_o like_o sign_n of_o grace_n in_o their_o heart_n and_o outward_a fruit_n thereof_o in_o their_o life_n than_o they_o do_v believe_v in_o christ_n and_o rejoice_v in_o he_o but_o when_o at_o another_o time_n they_o find_v hardness_n of_o heart_n profanity_n and_o perverseness_n of_o a_o wicked_a nature_n in_o themselves_o they_o be_v like_a to_o quit_v their_o interest_n in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o to_o stand_v aloof_o from_o christ_n like_o stranger_n when_o they_o shall_v most_o be_v humble_v and_o creep_v in_o to_o he_o for_o remission_n of_o sin_n aâ—d_v hide_v of_o their_o nakedness_n by_o his_o impute_a righteousness_n and_o what_o be_v this_o in_o effect_n else_o then_o in_o the_o first_o place_n to_o lean_v on_o their_o work_n and_o holy_a disposition_n as_o if_o there_o be_v merit_n in_o they_o and_o then_o after_o in_o the_o next_o place_n to_o believe_v in_o christ_n who_o have_v furnish_v they_o those_o fruit_n whereas_o they_o shall_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o unworthiness_n first_o fly_v to_o christ_n and_o firm_o adhere_v to_o he_o by_o faith_n that_o out_o of_o his_o fullness_n they_o may_v receive_v grace_n for_o grace_n according_a as_o we_o be_v teach_v to_o do_v by_o christ_n himself_o joh._n 15._o 5._o he_o that_o abide_v in_o i_o and_o l_o in_o he_o the_o same_o bring_v forth_o much_o fruit_n for_o without_o i_o you_o can_v do_v nothing_o chap._n vii_o concern_v the_o case_n of_o the_o convert_n in_o some_o point_n of_o doctrine_n delude_v and_o please_v himself_o in_o this_o condition_n to_o speak_v of_o delusion_n and_o bewitch_a in_o the_o general_n require_v a_o large_a treatise_n it_o shall_v suffice_v our_o purpose_n to_o speak_v of_o it_o as_o it_o have_v place_n in_o the_o point_n of_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n erroneous_a which_o we_o describe_v thus_o delusion_n be_v a_o powerful_a operation_n of_o a_o lie_a spirit_n whereby_o he_o obtrude_v to_o man_n some_o noisome_a error_n in_o doctrine_n or_o practice_v contrary_a to_o true_a doctrine_n faird_v over_o with_o sophistical_a deceit_n and_o do_v persuade_v inconsiderate_a soul_n effectual_o to_o receive_v the_o error_n for_o truth_n and_o to_o defend_v and_o spread_v it_o in_o their_o rash_a zeal_n for_o explication_n of_o which_o description_n we_o say_v 1._o delusion_n be_v a_o powerful_a operation_n of_o a_o lie_a spirit_n wherein_o satan_n in_o god_n judgement_n be_v permit_v to_o put_v forth_o his_o power_n in_o lie_v effectual_o therefore_o in_o all_o his_o effectual_a delusion_n there_o be_v a_o concur_v righteous_a judgement_n of_o god_n in_o lose_v reins_o to_o the_o rempter_n that_o by_o delusion_n one_o sin_n in_o one_o degree_n may_v be_v punish_v by_o a_o follow_a sin_n in_o a_o high_a degree_n no_o wonder_n therefore_o that_o a_o lie_a spirit_n do_v work_v more_o effectual_o when_o he_o be_v not_o restrain_v by_o the_o powerful_a hand_n of_o god_n 2._o we_o say_v that_o delusion_n be_v in_o some_o dangerous_a error_n tend_v to_o the_o damage_n of_o the_o church_n and_o hazard_v of_o soul_n and_o this_o we_o say_v not_o as_o if_o we_o do_v think_v that_o any_o sin_n do_v not_o draw_v with_o it_o the_o merit_n of_o death_n for_o the_o wage_n of_o every_o sin_n be_v death_n but_o because_o satan_n be_v not_o so_o busy_a to_o spread_v and_o foment_n such_o error_n as_o be_v less_o perilous_a as_o he_o be_v active_a in_o such_o error_n which_o do_v most_o tend_v to_o pester_v the_o church_n and_o divert_v the_o professor_n of_o religion_n from_o the_o path_n way_n of_o save_a doctrine_n and_o to_o this_o purpose_n he_o essay_n all_o mean_n that_o he_o may_v obscure_v and_o darken_v the_o truth_n and_o devise_v and_o spread_v abroad_o the_o most_o pernicious_a error_n mean_a time_n he_o be_v not_o idle_a in_o sow_v and_o spread_v lesser_a error_n that_o he_o may_v stir_v up_o contention_n and_o jangle_n in_o the_o church_n whereby_o precious_a time_n which_o shall_v be_v spend_v for_o mutual_a edification_n may_v be_v idle_o waste_v in_o needless_a dispute_n and_o man_n mind_n may_v be_v prepare_v to_o receive_v grosser_n error_n three_o we_o put_v some_o difference_n between_o error_n in_o doctrine_n and_o error_n in_o practice_n albeit_o there_o can_v be_v one_o error_n in_o practice_n whether_o it_o be_v in_o the_o external_a worship_n or_o government_n of_o the_o church_n or_o in_o outward_a conversation_n which_o be_v stiff_o maintain_v have_v not_o some_o error_n of_o judgement_n and_o doctrine_n join_v with_o it_o or_o else_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v contrary_a to_o sound_v doctrine_n
may_v weaken_v their_o faith_n and_o to_o rejoice_v in_o believe_v and_o to_o be_v zealous_a for_o the_o lord_n glory_n and_o careful_a to_o bring_v forth_o more_o and_o more_o fruit_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n and_o work_v such_o other_o gracious_a work_n of_o his_o spirit_n in_o his_o child_n as_o may_v more_o and_o more_o mortify_v sin_n in_o they_o and_o perfect_a the_o image_n of_o god_n in_o his_o new_a creature_n this_o divine_a magisteriall_a and_o effectual_a application_n of_o real_a blessing_n belong_v to_o god_n only_o and_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o ministerial_a application_n which_o be_v of_o the_o external_a mean_n appoint_v of_o god_n to_o be_v make_v use_n of_o by_o man_n the_o blessing_n whereof_o must_v be_v leave_v to_o god_n to_o bestow_v on_o who_o how_o and_o in_o what_o measure_n and_o in_o what_o time_n it_o please_v he_o as_o the_o apostle_n do_v show_v unto_o we_o 1_o cor._n 3._o 6._o i_o have_v plant_v and_o apollo_n have_v water_v but_o god_n give_v the_o increase_n 3._o the_o external_a mean_n which_o do_v serve_v unto_o the_o foresay_a divine_a operation_n be_v 1._o the_o doctrine_n of_o life_n and_o salvation_n set_v down_o in_o the_o scripture_n to_o be_v hear_v and_o read_v by_o all_o man_n and_o meditat_fw-la upon_o with_o prayer_n for_o a_o blessing_n and_o 2._o send_v minister_n to_o who_o god_n have_v commit_v the_o word_n of_o reconciliation_n by_o who_o ministry_n disciple_n may_v be_v make_v unto_o christ_n out_o of_o all_o nation_n and_o 3._o the_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n whereby_o they_o with_o their_o child_n be_v baptize_v and_o gather_v together_o in_o several_a church_n and_o put_v under_o the_o government_n of_o such_o church-officer_n as_o his_o testament_n have_v appoint_v and_o 4._o these_o church_n join_v together_o in_o the_o most_o edify_a way_n of_o mutual_a communion_n and_o strengthen_v one_o another_o in_o true_a doctrine_n pure_a worship_n and_o discipline_n which_o god_n providence_n do_v make_v way_n for_o that_o the_o kingdom_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n may_v continue_v and_o grow_v in_o the_o world_n and_o all_o his_o ordinance_n may_v be_v exercise_v public_o and_o private_o to_o the_o best_a advantage_n of_o the_o church_n for_o perfect_v of_o the_o saint_n for_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n and_o for_o the_o edify_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n as_o the_o apostle_n require_v ephes._n 4._o 12_o 13_o 14._o 4._o in_o the_o use_n of_o these_o external_a mean_n and_o special_o in_o the_o application_n of_o these_o three_o covenant_n prudence_n be_v require_v both_o in_o pastor_n and_o people_n to_o which_o intent_n and_o purpose_n these_o follow_a consideration_n may_v serve_v 1._o the_o remedy_n of_o every_o sickness_n of_o the_o conscience_n must_v be_v ground_v on_o the_o doctrine_n of_o salvation_n set_v down_o in_o scripture_n which_o doctrine_n 〈…〉_z be_v know_v and_o believe_v by_o the_o porty_fw-la 〈◊〉_d before_o he_o can_v receive_v benefit_n thereby_o and_o 〈…〉_z a_o prudent_a application_n of_o wholesome_a and_o save_a doctrine_n may_v be_v make_v of_o necessity_n the_o party_n disease_v must_v be_v acquâ—â—ared_v with_o the_o doctrine_n to_o be_v apply_v unto_o he_o before_o he_o can_v make_v use_n thereof_o to_o his_o advantage_n for_o experience_n teach_v we_o how_o hardly_o gross_a ignorant_o can_v be_v convince_v of_o sin_n add_v how_o hardly_o such_o can_v be_v comfort_v when_o their_o conscience_n be_v waken_v with_o the_o terror_n of_o god_n because_o they_o neither_o know_v from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n the_o cause_n of_o the_o terror_n and_o anxiety_n wherein_o they_o be_v nor_o can_v they_o be_v capable_a of_o the_o remedy_n of_o their_o evil_n except_o they_o first_o be_v catechise_v in_o the_o head_n of_o save_a doctrine_n hâ—ld_v forth_o in_o the_o law_n and_o gospel_n which_o instruction_n can_v hardly_o be_v give_v or_o receive_v in_o a_o short_a time_n and_o howsoever_o a_o prudent_a pastor_n must_v make_v use_n of_o time_n as_o it_o be_v offer_v yet_o when_o death_n be_v near_o to_o the_o party_n to_o be_v instruct_v how_o little_a be_v it_o that_o can_v be_v expect_v to_o be_v do_v 2._o the_o order_n of_o apply_v save_v doctrine_n do_v not_o begin_v at_o the_o application_n either_o of_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n or_o at_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n but_o he_o that_o will_v follow_v a_o right_a order_n must_v begin_v at_o the_o law_n and_o covenant_n of_o work_n under_o the_o yoke_n whereof_o we_o be_v all_o bear_v by_o nature_n child_n of_o wrath_n and_o if_o a_o man_n apply_v that_o covenant_n and_o law_n to_o his_o heart_n and_o subscribe_v his_o own_o dittey_n and_o deserve_a condemnation_n then_o may_v he_o turn_v up_o his_o soul_n to_o christ_n jesus_n the_o redeemer_n and_o fly_v to_o he_o for_o refuge_n and_o accept_v the_o offer_n which_o he_o make_v in_o his_o gospel_n of_o a_o new_a covenant_n of_o grace_n for_o pardon_v of_o sin_n and_o reconcile_n unto_o god_n in_o himself_o the_o person_n who_o be_v flee_v unto_o he_o and_o for_o sanctify_v and_o save_v of_o he_o which_o covenant_n when_o a_o chase_a soul_n do_v consent_n unto_o and_o lay_v hold_v on_o christ_n offer_v for_o relief_n from_o sin_n wrath_n death_n and_o hell_n then_o may_v he_o ascend_v by_o faith_n unto_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n and_o apply_v to_o himself_o with_o god_n allowance_n all_o the_o save_a grace_n purchase_v by_o christ_n by_o that_o covenant_n to_o all_o that_o fly_v unto_o he_o and_o believe_v in_o he_o 3._o this_o order_n of_o make_v use_n of_o these_o three_o covenant_n many_o do_v not_o follow_v but_o they_o begin_v at_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n and_o will_v either_o be_v satisfy_v about_o this_o whether_o they_o be_v elect_v or_o not_o give_v to_o christ_n to_o be_v redeem_v or_o not_o which_o be_v a_o secret_a and_o not_o to_o be_v inquire_v into_o save_v in_o god_n order_n as_o we_o have_v show_v or_o else_o they_o will_v not_o enter_v upon_o the_o use-making_a of_o these_o mean_n which_o god_n have_v appoint_v to_o bring_v a_o man_n to_o repentance_n and_o faith_n in_o christ._n this_o be_v a_o tentation_n of_o satan_n which_o if_o they_o yield_v unto_o it_o shall_v lead_v they_o either_o to_o resolute_a profanity_n with_o cain_n or_o to_o anxious_a desperation_n with_o judas_n 4._o there_o be_v some_o also_o who_o make_v leap-year_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n and_o do_v take_v no_o notice_n of_o their_o own_o natural_a sinfulness_n or_o wrath_n due_a to_o they_o and_o lie_v on_o they_o by_o nature_n but_o neglect_v this_o order_n do_v start_v a_o race_n and_o run_v to_o a_o presumptuous_a avouch_v of_o their_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o will_v thrust_v in_o themselves_o in_o the_o number_n of_o the_o elect_a give_v before_o the_o world_n be_v unto_o christ_n to_o be_v redeem_v and_o save_v pretend_v their_o believe_v of_o the_o gospel_n when_o they_o have_v not_o believe_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o law_n and_o so_o do_v turn_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n into_o lasciviousness_n and_o wantonness_n and_o go_v about_o the_o satisfy_n and_o fulfil_n of_o their_o own_o lust_n wherefore_o it_o be_v necessary_a that_o every_o man_n who_o seek_v to_o be_v save_v and_o have_v resolve_v to_o follow_v god_n way_n to_o attain_v unto_o salvation_n do_v begin_v first_o at_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n and_o examine_v himself_o according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o moral_a law_n how_o he_o have_v behave_v himself_o in_o obedience_n unto_o the_o first_o and_o second_o table_n and_o have_v sound_v a_o dittey_n great_a enough_o that_o he_o judge_v himself_o and_o pass_v sentence_n on_o himself_o as_o guilty_a and_o worthy_a of_o everlasting_a wrath_n for_o his_o sin_n second_o when_o he_o be_v convince_v of_o sin_n and_o deserve_a wrath_n and_o of_o his_o own_o utter_a impotency_n to_o deliver_v himself_o then_o let_v he_o flee_v to_o christ_n and_o lay_v hold_v on_o the_o grace_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n apply_v the_o same_o to_o his_o burden_a conscience_n according_a to_o the_o tenor_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n full_o reveal_v in_o the_o gospel_n and_o three_o when_o he_o have_v in_o earnest_n consent_v unto_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o reconciliation_n and_o have_v lay_v hold_n on_o christ_n with_o unfeigned_a faith_n seek_v in_o he_o remission_n of_o sin_n and_o renovation_n of_o life_n be_v resolve_v by_o the_o grace_n of_o christ_n to_o use_v the_o mean_n appoint_v of_o he_o for_o that_o end_n now_o it_o be_v time_n and_o not_o till_o now_o to_o look_v up_o unto_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n and_o there_o to_o read_v his_o own_o name_n as_o it_o be_v write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n and_o to_o acknowledge_v that_o the_o measure_n of_o repentance_n and_o
and_o at_o length_n that_o they_o shall_v whole_o give_v themselves_o to_o religious_a exercise_n and_o a_o holy_a life_n mean_v time_n they_o conceive_v they_o may_v come_v in_o among_o the_o true_a convert_n and_o young_a beginner_n albeit_o they_o come_v not_o up_o the_o length_n which_o they_o intend_v but_o be_v unde_fw-la the_o power_n of_o some_o belove_a lust_n which_o they_o can_v rid_v themselves_o of_o but_o do_v hope_v they_o shall_v betimes_o overcome_v they_o such_o man_n do_v miserable_o mistake_v the_o mater_fw-la first_o in_o that_o they_o think_v their_o purpose_n of_o repentance_n and_o a_o new_a life_n breed_v in_o they_o by_o conviction_n of_o their_o duty_n to_o be_v the_o very_a grace_n of_o regeneration_n and_o begin_v sanctification_n second_o they_o conceive_v that_o the_o lust_n which_o do_v reign_v in_o themselves_o be_v common_a to_o they_o and_o all_o other_o regenerate_v person_n of_o who_o few_o or_o none_o think_v they_o want_v their_o own_o gross_a fault_n three_o they_o conceive_v they_o can_v repent_v more_o serious_o when_o they_o please_v and_o will_v repent_v after_o a_o while_n follow_v of_o their_o belove_a lust_n as_o if_o repentance_n be_v not_o a_o save_a grace_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n who_o they_o do_v daily_o provoke_v by_o their_o vileness_n but_o a_o work_n in_o the_o power_n of_o every_o man_n freewill_n be_v once_o convince_v of_o his_o sin_n four_o they_o do_v not_o consider_v that_o by_o the_o delay_n of_o repent_v and_o turn_v from_o all_o sin_n unto_o god_n their_o heart_n be_v daily_o more_o and_o more_o in_o god_n judgement_n harden_v and_o god_n provoke_v to_o punish_v their_o voluntary_a impenitence_n with_o judicial_a hardness_n of_o heart_n that_o they_o shall_v never_o repent_v such_o man_n our_o lord_n compare_v to_o the_o disobedient_a son_n who_o promise_v to_o his_o father_n he_o will_v go_v work_n in_o his_o vineyard_n and_o go_v not_o math._n 21._o 30._o such_o man_n be_v they_o who_o know_v the_o well_o of_o the_o lord_n but_o do_v it_o not_o and_o therefore_o worthy_a of_o double_a punishment_n math_n 12._o 47._o the_o â—â—medy_n of_o this_o evil_a christ_n give_v luk._n 13._o 24_o 25_o 26._o strive_v to_o enter_v at_o the_o strait_a gate_n for_o many_o â—_o say_v unto_o you_o will_v seek_v to_o enter_v in_o and_o shall_v not_o be_v able_a mâ—n_z know_v not_o how_o soon_o god_n may_v shut_v the_o door_n therefore_o man_n have_v need_v while_o it_o be_v to_o day_n not_o to_o harden_v their_o heart_n psal_n 95._o 8._o 2._o other_o some_o be_v who_o be_v of_o a_o civil_a life_n profess_v and_o do_v persuade_v themselves_o that_o they_o indeed_o do_v repent_v and_o believe_v in_o christ_n and_o by_o faith_n in_o he_o do_v certain_o expect_v salvation_n free_o of_o his_o grace_n if_o you_o pose_v any_o such_o man_n whether_o they_o do_v indeed_o believe_v in_o christ_n they_o shall_v present_o answer_v that_o they_o firm_o do_v believe_v in_o he_o and_o that_o they_o never_o doubt_v but_o he_o be_v their_o sweet_a saviour_n who_o die_v for_o they_o if_o you_o press_v they_o to_o speak_v in_o earnest_n from_o their_o heart_n they_o shall_v present_o be_v ill_o please_v with_o the_o question_n and_o ask_v what_o cause_n of_o suspect_v the_o sincerity_n of_o their_o faith_n and_o repentance_n can_v be_v just_o allege_v or_o what_o cause_n have_v any_o man_n to_o suspect_v they_o or_o doubt_v of_o god_n favour_n towards_o they_o in_o christ_n in_o who_o shall_v we_o believe_v say_v they_o if_o not_o in_o christ_n be_v there_o any_o other_o saviour_n of_o sinner_n beside_o he_o if_o a_o man_n please_v to_o try_v the_o truth_n of_o their_o faith_n by_o their_o repentance_n they_o shall_v forthwith_o affirm_v that_o they_o repent_v day_n and_o night_n and_o have_v just_a cause_n so_o to_o do_v for_o in_o many_o thing_n we_o sin_v all_o and_o why_o then_o shall_v we_o not_o always_o repent_v if_o they_o be_v ask_v of_o their_o love_n to_o god_n and_o their_o neighbour_n they_o shall_v answer_v after_o the_o same_o manner_n such_o man_n be_v these_o of_o who_o christ_n speak_v that_o they_o will_v confident_o come_v to_o he_o and_o call_v he_o lord_n lord_n and_o yet_o be_v find_v no_o way_n careful_a to_o do_v the_o lord_n will_v but_o servant_n to_o their_o own_o lust_n 3._o such_o man_n do_v deceive_v themselves_o first_o by_o frame_v to_o themselves_o such_o carnal_a notion_n of_o faith_n and_o repentance_n and_o of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o of_o save_a hope_n and_o other_o spiritual_a grace_n as_o in_o their_o fantasy_n they_o conceive_v they_o do_v practice_v which_o conception_n be_v not_o ground_v upon_o the_o word_n of_o god_n second_o they_o esteem_v the_o assent_n of_o their_o mind_n unto_o the_o truth_n commend_v these_o duty_n unto_o man_n as_o good_a as_o the_o performance_n of_o they_o and_o they_o do_v take_v the_o sentence_n of_o their_o conscience_n concern_v the_o equity_n of_o such_o duty_n for_o the_o sentence_n of_o their_o conscience_n bear_v witness_n of_o their_o practice_n and_o obedience_n of_o these_o duty_n and_o while_o their_o conscience_n say_v why_o shall_v not_o i_o do_v so_o they_o take_v that_o for_o as_o good_a as_o if_o it_o have_v say_v i_o do_v so_o but_o save_v grace_n go_v deep_a than_o civil_a carriage_n and_o to_o commend_v the_o duty_n of_o repentance_n and_o faith_n in_o christ_n be_v not_o enough_o except_o they_o be_v put_v in_o practice_n also_o in_o daily_a sorrow_n for_o sin_n and_o hatred_n of_o it_o and_o fly_v to_o christ_n daily_o to_o be_v washen_n and_o more_o and_o more_o sanctify_a 4._o some_o there_o be_v who_o when_o they_o have_v hear_v that_o a_o man_n be_v justify_v by_o faith_n in_o christ_n only_o without_o the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n do_v imagine_v a_o faith_n which_o need_v not_o to_o bring_v forth_o any_o good_a work_n at_o all_o and_o so_o they_o take_v off_o the_o justify_v man_n from_o all_o necessity_n of_o follow_v good_a work_n as_o far_o as_o they_o take_v off_o good_a work_n from_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o justification_n and_o do_v open_a a_o door_n to_o themselves_o to_o live_v after_o their_o own_o will_n in_o the_o lust_n of_o their_o flesh_n conceive_v that_o they_o who_o believe_v in_o christ_n be_v fir_v not_o only_o from_o the_o covenant_n of_o the_o law_n but_o also_o from_o the_o command_n of_o the_o law_n against_o who_o our_o lord_n do_v speak_v and_o do_v cut_v off_o such_o libertine_n and_o turner_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n into_o wantonness_n from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n math._n 5._o 17_o 18_o 19_o and_o the_o apostle_n to_o guard_v against_o this_o self-deceit_n heb._n 12._o 14._o command_v to_o follow_v holiness_n without_o which_o no_o man_n shall_v see_v the_o lord_n 5._o some_o there_o be_v who_o pretend_v to_o esteem_v well_o of_o the_o offer_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o of_o the_o duty_n of_o follow_v the_o mean_n of_o make_v they_o partaker_n of_o the_o marriage-supper_n do_v yet_o think_v themselves_o excusable_a when_o they_o have_v much_o ado_n in_o their_o worldly_a calling_n albeit_o they_o prefer_v the_o care_n of_o their_o family_n and_o provision_n for_o their_o thing_n outward_a unto_o the_o main_a work_n of_o their_o entertain_a communion_n with_o god_n yea_o they_o conceive_v that_o god_n will_v allow_v they_o in_o so_o do_v as_o christ_n do_v insinuat_fw-la in_o the_o parable_n of_o the_o guest_n invite_v to_o the_o feast_n answer_v the_o invitation_n with_o i_o pray_v have_v i_o excuse_v luke_n 14._o 18_o 19_o this_o be_v a_o rise_v evil_a in_o great_a personage_n rich_a person_n and_o such_o as_o be_v much_o implove_v in_o earthly_a affair_n such_o man_n deceive_v themselves_o first_o in_o lay_v down_o this_o ground_n with_o themselves_o that_o their_o earthly_a affair_n the_o necessity_n whereof_o do_v first_o and_o most_o sensible_o appear_v must_v in_o the_o first_o room_n be_v cared-for_a and_o that_o the_o one_o thing_n necessary_a may_v be_v follow_v after_o as_o their_o civil_a and_o earthly_a affair_n may_v permit_v second_o they_o reckon_v gain_v to_o be_v godliness_n 1_o tim._n 6._o 5._o for_o they_o can_v be_v persuade_v when_o gain_n may_v be_v have_v that_o god_n require_v of_o any_o man_n to_o slip_v the_o occasion_n or_o to_o put_v his_o worldly_a good_n in_o hazard_n by_o defend_v or_o follow_v matter_n of_o religion_n three_o they_o think_v themselves_o so_o wise_a as_o they_o can_v well_o enough_o serve_v two_o master_n god_n and_o covetousness_n albeit_o when_o it_o come_v to_o the_o proof_n they_o will_v be_v find_v to_o serve_v not_o god_n but_o their_o own_o lust_n this_o error_n our_o lord_n refute_v and_o give_v warning_n to_o beware_v of_o it_o matth._n 6._o 24._o and_o luke_n 21._o 34._o take_v heed_n
they_o read_v very_a fable_n and_o feign_a romance_n which_o they_o know_v to_o be_v such_o and_o yet_o they_o can_v command_v their_o affection_n in_o read_v of_o they_o may_v not_o then_o a_o unrenewed_a man_n give_v as_o much_o credit_n to_o holy_a scripture_n and_o be_v affect_v with_o the_o holy_a history_n thereof_o without_o any_o change_n make_v of_o his_o perverse_a nature_n the_o wisdom_n whereof_o be_v enmity_n against_o god_n and_o can_v subject_v itself_o either_o to_o his_o law_n or_o gospel_n second_o if_o we_o consider_v what_o the_o power_n of_o a_o natural_a conscience_n can_v work_v upon_o the_o affection_n by_o just_a accusation_n or_o excusation_n for_o raise_v grief_n and_o joy_n therein_o whereof_o not_o only_a scripture_n but_o also_o heathen_a writer_n do_v bear_v witness_n we_o need_v not_o doubt_n but_o the_o natural_a conscience_n may_v have_v the_o same_o power_n in_o a_o temporary_a believer_n three_o if_o we_o consider_v what_o the_o precept_n of_o moral_a philosophy_n have_v wrought_v upon_o the_o scholar_n of_o socrates_n and_o aristotle_n and_o other_o heathen_a master_n for_o the_o outward_a frame_n of_o they_o unto_o seem_a virtue_n we_o need_v not_o doubt_v what_o the_o precept_n of_o the_o moral_a law_n may_v work_v upon_o a_o temporary_a believer_n for_o put_v a_o lustre_n on_o his_o life_n as_o be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o sundry_a pharisee_n without_o conversion_n and_o renovation_n of_o the_o inner_a man_n towards_o god_n four_o if_o we_o consider_v what_o delight_n be_v find_v by_o scholar_n in_o the_o contemplation_n of_o these_o thing_n which_o philosophy_n do_v treat_v of_o we_o may_v easy_o persuade_v ourselves_o that_o more_o delight_n may_v be_v have_v in_o contemplation_n of_o what_o holy_a scripture_n do_v hold_v forth_o without_o make_v the_o man_n a_o new_a creature_n but_o when_o unto_o the_o natural_a man_n foresay_a seem_a perfection_n knowledge_n of_o the_o mystery_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o gift_n of_o preach_v and_o prophesy_v be_v superad_v which_o be_v but_o movable_a gift_n common_a to_o renew_v and_o unrenewed_a man_n and_o far_o from_o be_v save_v grace_n what_o wonder_v the_o natural_a man_n and_o temporary_a believer_n be_v puff_v up_o with_o a_o high_a estimation_n of_o his_o own_o worth_n and_o hope_n of_o be_v receive_v by_o christ_n the_o judge_n and_o yet_o be_v find_v at_o last_o to_o have_v deceive_v himself_o and_o unwarrantable_o absolve_v himself_o by_o his_o own_o delude_a conscience_n as_o christ_n give_v warning_n math._n 7._o 21._o quest._n but_o what_o can_v a_o temporary_a believer_n want_v come_v up_o all_o the_o length_n that_o be_v now_o speak_v of_o and_o suppose_v to_o be_v endue_v with_o so_o many_o seem_a good_a thing_n whereunto_o many_o save_v saint_n do_v not_o attain_v ans._n every_o save_a saint_n be_v beat_v out_o of_o self-estimation_n for_o any_o thing_n in_o himself_o beat_v out_o of_o confidence_n in_o any_o thing_n he_o do_v or_o can_v do_v and_o be_v humble_v in_o his_o heart_n by_o the_o law_n the_o spiritual_a perfection_n whereof_o be_v understand_v kill_v his_o natural_a pride_n rom._n 7._o 9_o 2._o every_o save_a saint_n be_v chase_v for_o refuge_n to_o fly_v to_o christ_n to_o his_o righteousness_n and_o the_o riches_n of_o grace_n hold_v forth_o in_o he_o and_o every_o save_v saint_n be_v a_o new_a creature_n aim_v more_o and_o more_o to_o follow_v the_o course_n of_o new_a obedience_n and_o draw_v virtue_n from_o christ_n by_o faith_n to_o please_v god_n and_o worship_n he_o in_o spirit_n phil._n 3._o 3_o so_o that_o his_o purpose_n and_o endeavour_v in_o some_o measure_n be_v like_a unto_o that_o of_o david_n psal._n 71._o 10_o 15_o 16._o saying_n i_o will_v hope_v continual_o and_o i_o will_v praise_v thou_o more_o and_o more_o my_o mouth_n shall_v show_v forth_o thy_o righteousness_n and_o thy_o salvation_n all_o the_o day_n for_o i_o know_v not_o the_o number_n thereof_o i_o will_v walk_v in_o the_o strength_n of_o the_o lord_n god_n i_o will_v make_v mention_n of_o thy_o righteousness_n even_o of_o thy_o only_a but_o the_o temporary_a believer_n reckon_v not_o for_o his_o debt_n and_o deserve_n with_o the_o law_n he_o be_v not_o humble_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o sinfulness_n and_o inability_n to_o satisfy_v the_o law_n by_o himself_o he_o have_v not_o the_o root_n of_o repentance_n in_o he_o for_o immediate_o upon_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o gospel_n he_o receive_v the_o word_n with_o joy_n without_o godly_a sorrow_n for_o his_o sin_n luk._n 8._o 13._o the_o temporary_a believer_n be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n by_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v his_o own_o righteousness_n upon_o the_o bottom_n of_o his_o own_o blameless_a conversation_n privilege_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n common_a gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o success_n with_o prosperity_n all_o which_o because_o he_o be_v not_o justify_v by_o faith_n in_o christ_n do_v not_o advance_v he_o above_o the_o state_n of_o the_o worker_n of_o iniquity_n math._n 7._o 21_o 22_o 23._o the_o symptom_n and_o ordinary_a sign_n of_o this_o malady_n of_o unwarrantable_a self-absolution_n be_v these_o 1._o all_o of_o this_o sort_n be_v well_o please_v with_o their_o own_o way_n they_o be_v not_o daily_o humble_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o short-coming_a in_o duty_n and_o chase_v to_o christ_n righteousness_n which_o may_v hide_v their_o nakedness_n 2._o they_o be_v all_o secure_a and_o fear_v no_o wrath_n but_o put_v the_o evil_a day_n far_o from_o they_o 3._o they_o can_v be_v induce_v to_o any_o accurate_a examination_n of_o their_o own_o life_n way_n condition_n or_o estate_n if_o any_o man_n insinuate_v any_o suspicion_n of_o hypocrisy_n in_o they_o or_o if_o their_o own_o conscience_n begin_v to_o question_v their_o sincerity_n they_o can_v endure_v it_o 4._o albeit_o they_o say_v unto_o christ_n lord_n lord_n yet_o they_o make_v little_a use_n of_o his_o office_n of_o mediation_n of_o his_o power_n and_o virtue_n for_o illumination_n humiliation_n heal_v and_o help_v on_o to_o salvation_n 5._o they_o look_v more_o to_o the_o seem_a good_a thing_n in_o themselves_o for_o strengthen_v their_o carnal_a confidence_n than_o they_o take_v notice_n of_o the_o evil_a of_o a_o body_n of_o death_n in_o themselves_o to_o drive_v they_o to_o christ_n the_o only_a deliverer_n from_o it_o 6._o yea_o they_o all_o serve_v some_o idol_n lurk_v in_o their_o heart_n they_o yield_v obedience_n to_o some_o reign_a lust_n which_o they_o will_v not_o forsake_v for_o which_o cause_n christ_n foretell_v that_o he_o will_v declare_v they_o to_o be_v but_o worker_n of_o iniquity_n math._n 7._o 23._o the_o cause_n of_o this_o evil_a be_v 1._o the_o ignorance_n of_o the_o law_n and_o the_o utter_a inability_n yea_o averseness_n of_o nature_n to_o be_v subject_a to_o it_o the_o knowledge_n whereof_o may_v make_v man_n live_v all_o their_o day_n in_o a_o loathe_n of_o themselves_o and_o cut_v off_o all_o hope_n of_o obtain_v righteousness_n by_o the_o law_n 2._o the_o ignorance_n of_o that_o dear-bought_a righteousness_n of_o christ_n and_o of_o the_o riches_n of_o his_o grace_n offer_v to_o impute_v his_o satisfaction_n to_o every_o self-condemned_n sinner_n who_o shall_v fly_v to_o he_o and_o accept_v his_o offer_n 3_o the_o ignorance_n of_o the_o necessity_n of_o the_o bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n in_o love_n and_o study_v of_o new_a obedience_n and_o sanctification_n by_o the_o furniture_n of_o christ_n without_o which_o no_o man_n shall_v see_v god_n 4._o the_o take_n of_o a_o presumptuous_a dead_a faith_n in_o stead_n of_o that_o true_a justify_v faith_n which_o lay_v hold_v on_o christ_n and_o work_v by_o love_n the_o take_n of_o a_o vain_a groundless_a hope_n for_o that_o lively_a hope_n which_o purify_v both_o the_o heart_n and_o external_a conversation_n also_o 5._o the_o compare_v of_o themselves_o either_o with_o the_o worst_a sort_n of_o vile_a sinner_n or_o with_o such_o as_o be_v like_a to_o themselves_o or_o with_o the_o saint_n in_o their_o gross_a fail_n not_o judge_v themselves_o according_a to_o the_o law_n the_o use_n to_o be_v make_v of_o this_o doctrine_n be_v first_o to_o stir_v we_o up_o to_o take_v notice_n of_o that_o power_n of_o the_o soul_n call_v conscience_n which_o god_n have_v put_v in_o every_o man_n to_o observe_v all_o the_o man_n word_n deed_n and_o intention_n and_o to_o compare_v they_o with_o the_o law_n and_o will_n of_o god_n so_o far_o as_o it_o be_v inform_v and_o to_o accuse_v or_o excuse_v condemn_v or_o absolve_v smite_v or_o comfort_v the_o man_n as_o it_o find_v cause_n that_o we_o suffer_v not_o our_o own_o conscience_n to_o sleep_v but_o set_v it_o on_o work_n whilst_o it_o be_v time_n that_o we_o may_v know_v how_o
be_v convert_v 2._o this_o ground_n of_o judge_v of_o man_n conversion_n by_o the_o manner_n of_o god_n exercise_v of_o they_o so_o as_o other_o convert_a saint_n have_v be_v exercise_v before_o they_o and_o of_o judge_v the_o man_n to_o be_v unregenerat_a who_o be_v otherways_o exercise_v than_o they_o know_v any_o convert_n to_o have_v be_v exercise_v do_v deceive_v the_o friend_n of_o job_n who_o in_o job_n face_n avow_v this_o their_o error_n job_n 5._o 1._o call_v now_o say_v they_o if_o their_o be_v any_o that_o will_v answer_v thou_o and_o unto_o which_o of_o the_o saint_n will_v thou_o turn_v that_o be_v name_v any_o example_n of_o any_o upright_a man_n who_o have_v be_v deal_v with_o by_o god_n as_o thou_o be_v and_o what_o saint_n or_o holy_a man_n can_v thou_o name_v to_o who_o thou_o can_v compare_v thyself_o and_o say_v such_o a_o man_n have_v suffer_v such_o thing_n as_o i_o do_v this_o doubt_n do_v arise_v from_o this_o error_n and_o mistake_n the_o afflict_a do_v without_o ground_n suppose_v that_o express_a example_n of_o every_o particular_a case_n of_o the_o saint_n be_v set_v down_o in_o scripture_n it_o be_v true_a there_o be_v example_n of_o many_o case_n which_o may_v befall_v the_o godly_a but_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v expect_v that_o we_o shâ—ll_v find_v example_n of_o every_o particular_a exercise_n of_o mind_n wherein_o the_o saint_n may_v fall_v for_o as_o the_o evangeh_v say_v if_o all_o particular_n be_v write_v the_o world_n can_v not_o hold_v or_o make_v use_n thereof_o it_o be_v sufficient_a that_o the_o scripture_n have_v set_v down_o rule_n whereunto_o the_o saint_n shall_v labour_v to_o conform_v themselves_o and_o that_o it_o have_v open_v up_o the_o cause_n and_o remedy_n of_o all_o spiritual_a disease_n and_o have_v give_v so_o many_o example_n as_o may_v clear_v the_o rule_n it_o be_v also_o a_o mistake_n to_o make_v the_o experience_n of_o the_o most_o exercise_v soldier_n a_o rule_n for_o every_o saint_n exercise_n or_o to_o think_v that_o any_o man_n can_v know_v the_o variety_n of_o case_n which_o befall_v the_o saint_n for_o there_o be_v many_o who_o case_n be_v not_o reveal_v to_o any_o but_o lay_v open_a unto_o god_n only_o by_o prayer_n and_o be_v help_v by_o faith_n in_o christ._n 3._o wherefore_o the_o afflict_a must_v walk_v by_o rule_n set_v down_o in_o scripture_n whether_o he_o find_v the_o practice_n thereof_o in_o scripture_n or_o not_o now_o this_o be_v the_o rule_n that_o whatsoever_o evil_a condition_n we_o fall_v into_o whatsoever_o tentation_n whatsoever_o pollution_n have_v defile_v our_o conscience_n we_o must_v humble_v ourselves_o before_o god_n and_o fly_v unto_o christ_n for_o remission_n of_o the_o guiltiness_n for_o wash_v away_o the_o filthiness_n thereof_o for_o break_v down_o the_o power_n of_o corruption_n and_o pull_v out_o the_o root_n thereof_o withal_o praise_v and_o thank_v christ_n who_o have_v discover_v unto_o we_o these_o evil_n and_o have_v make_v they_o our_o affliction_n and_o not_o suffer_v they_o to_o break_v forth_o to_o the_o scandal_n of_o other_o and_o whatsoever_o calamity_n or_o temporal_a misery_n we_o shall_v fall_v into_o the_o scripture_n have_v give_v order_n unto_o we_o humble_o to_o submit_v ourselves_o to_o god_n dispensation_n and_o to_o make_v a_o good_a construction_n of_o god_n love_n and_o wisdom_n in_o exercise_v we_o so_o for_o by_o this_o rule_n job_n do_v walk_v defend_v his_o faith_n in_o christ_n his_o live_n and_o love_a redeemer_n against_o satan_n temptation_n and_o his_o friend_n uncharitable_a wrangle_a disputation_n when_o the_o question_n be_v about_o his_o state_n whether_o he_o have_v ever_o be_v convert_v or_o not_o whether_o he_o be_v a_o wicked_a hypocrite_n or_o not_o and_o by_o so_o do_v he_o over-came_a the_o temptation_n whereof_o we_o be_v now_o speak_v and_o let_v not_o the_o afflict_a lie_v it_o for_o a_o ground_n that_o by_o his_o hear_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o another_o like_v unto_o his_o condition_n he_o can_v be_v cure_v because_o no_o example_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o another_o can_v be_v find_v so_o quadrant_a unto_o his_o condition_n as_o he_o can_v thereby_o take_v satisfaction_n for_o as_o in_o compare_v of_o man_n face_n one_o with_o another_o such_o be_v the_o incomprehensible_a variety_n of_o the_o riches_n of_o god_n wisdom_n in_o frame_v they_o some_o difference_n and_o dissimilitude_n will_v be_v find_v betwixt_o face_n and_o face_n so_o in_o compare_v of_o the_o case_n of_o the_o saint_n none_o of_o they_o can_v be_v find_v in_o all_o thing_n so_o like_o one_o to_o another_o but_o some_o dissimilitude_n shall_v be_v find_v between_o they_o wherefore_o the_o afflict_a shall_v do_v well_o in_o every_o condition_n to_o draw_v near_o god_n and_o pour_v out_o his_o heart_n before_o he_o at_o all_o time_n for_o god_n be_v a_o refuge_n for_o we_o in_o all_o case_n ps._n 62._o 8._o chap._n xx._n wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o convert_n doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v convert_v because_o he_o do_v not_o find_v in_o himself_o the_o infallible_a mark_n of_o regeneration_n some_o true_a convert_n sometime_o be_v in_o suspense_n doubt_v whether_o they_o be_v indeed_o convert_v because_o they_o do_v not_o discern_v in_o themselves_o the_o unquestionable_a evidence_n of_o their_o conversion_n and_o albeit_o they_o have_v the_o undoubted_a mark_n of_o regeneration_n to_o wit_n the_o daily_a conviction_n and_o acknowledgement_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o do_v fly_v daily_o by_o faith_n unto_o jesus_n christ_n and_o be_v endeavour_v in_o some_o measure_n of_o sincerity_n to_o bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o new_a obedience_n with_o respect_n to_o all_o the_o commandment_n concern_v love_n to_o god_n and_o the_o brethren_n yet_o they_o there_fw-mi not_o defend_v the_o sincerity_n of_o these_o evidence_n because_o of_o the_o discern_a imperfection_n thereof_o for_o when_o they_o do_v compare_v these_o mark_n of_o the_o new_a creature_n with_o the_o rule_n they_o find_v much_o halt_n and_o short-coming_a therein_o in_o special_a they_o find_v their_o sense_n of_o sin_n to_o be_v but_o weak_a their_o faith_n in_o christ_n to_o be_v weak_a and_o their_o fail_n and_o short-coming_n in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o their_o neighbour_n to_o be_v many_o so_o that_o they_o scarce_o there_fw-mi allow_v these_o begin_v save_v grace_n the_o name_n of_o save_v grace_n and_o among_o other_o defect_n they_o reckon_v their_o not_o feel_v of_o the_o spirit_n of_o adoption_n whereof_o the_o apostle_n speak_v to_o the_o convert_a galatian_n gal._n 4._o 6._o because_o you_o be_v son_n say_v he_o god_n have_v send_v forth_o the_o spirit_n of_o his_o son_n into_o your_o heart_n cry_v abba_n father_n and_o ephes._n 1._o 13._o in_o who_o after_o you_o believe_v you_o be_v seal_v with_o the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o promise_n which_o spirit_n of_o promise_n and_o of_o adoption_n seal_v believer_n they_o conceive_v be_v know_v and_o discern_v in_o the_o apostle_n time_n by_o every_o believer_n feel_v in_o himself_o 2._o for_o solve_v of_o this_o doubt_n something_o be_v speak_v before_o concern_v the_o imperfect_a fruit_n of_o faith_n the_o buddding_n and_o blossom_a whereof_o be_v not_o despise_v by_o christ_n cant._n 2._o 13._o and_o 6._o 12._o but_o that_o this_o doubt_n may_v be_v more_o full_o answer_v let_v we_o take_v up_o the_o cause_n thereof_o 1._o one_o cause_n be_v or_o may_v be_v this_o that_o the_o afflict_a albeit_o together_o with_o the_o endeavour_n to_o lead_v a_o blameless_a life_n he_o be_v endue_v with_o the_o grace_n of_o prayer_n and_o look_v on_o god_n as_o his_o father_n yet_o he_o do_v not_o take_v up_o this_o work_n of_o god_n in_o he_o to_o be_v the_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n illuminate_v his_o mind_n about_o duty_n frame_v his_o will_n and_o affection_n unto_o new_a obedience_n stir_v he_o up_o to_o prayer_n and_o help_v he_o in_o prayer_n but_o in_o the_o earnest_n desire_v he_o have_v to_o find_v the_o operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o a_o large_a measure_n of_o evidence_n he_o do_v not_o mark_v the_o present_a operation_n but_o do_v slight_v it_o as_o nothing_o or_o do_v not_o esteem_v of_o it_o as_o become_v and_o so_o in_o his_o advertance_n raise_v and_o foster_v doubt_n in_o himself_o which_o do_v keep_v his_o faith_n in_o chain_n for_o remove_v of_o which_o cause_n let_v the_o afflict_a observe_v the_o operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o mean_a degree_n for_o the_o confirmation_n of_o his_o own_o faith_n and_o comfort_n and_o thanksgiving_n unto_o god_n as_o narrow_o as_o he_o do_v observe_v in_o himself_o the_o first_o motion_n of_o sin_n and_o stir_n of_o corruption_n for_o his_o own_o humiliation_n and_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n for_o wrong_a judgement_n under_o pretext_n of_o humility_n do_v
perfection_n which_o the_o law_n do_v require_v albeit_o he_o find_v not_o the_o fruit_n whensoever_o he_o will_v exact_v they_o albeit_o he_o find_v they_o not_o in_o that_o measure_n as_o he_o have_v find_v they_o before_o for_o as_o tree_n be_v not_o to_o be_v esteem_v dead_a or_o barren_a which_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n in_o due_a season_n albeit_o they_o bear_v not_o fruit_n in_o winter_n so_o faith_n be_v not_o to_o be_v esteem_v dead_a which_o as_o occasion_n be_v offer_v bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n at_o one_o time_n of_o mercy_n at_o another_o time_n of_o justice_n and_o equity_n at_o another_o time_n the_o evidence_n of_o zeal_n at_o another_o time_n of_o love_n and_o other_o virtue_n albeit_o when_o occasion_n or_o opportunity_n offer_v not_o it_o do_v not_o exercise_v such_o and_o such_o virtue_n yea_o albeit_o sometime_o when_o occasion_n call_v for_o the_o evidence_n of_o such_o and_o such_o gracious_a virtue_n the_o convert_n be_v sometime_o find_v in-laking_a or_o short_a of_o do_v duty_n or_o guilty_a of_o do_v contrary_a to_o duty_n faith_n must_v not_o be_v count_v dead_a for_o all_o that_o because_o it_o may_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o faith_n may_v be_v so_o wound_v and_o fall_v sick_a and_o languish_v and_o fall_v in_o a_o swoon_n that_o it_o can_v bring_v forth_o fruit_n till_o it_o be_v recover_v of_o its_o sickness_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o jonah_n david_n and_o peter_n who_o faith_n faint_v but_o fail_v not_o altogether_o it_o be_v true_a they_o suspect_v they_o be_v cut_v off_o and_o go_v when_o they_o be_v in_o hard_a exercise_n but_o after_o that_o they_o do_v look_v up_o to_o the_o mercy_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n draw_v near_o unto_o he_o and_o do_v show_v themselves_o alive_a in_o the_o lord_n and_o to_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n last_o of_o all_o we_o answer_v that_o the_o regrate_a of_o the_o humble_a soul_n of_o its_o barrenness_n and_o short-coming_a of_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n as_o it_o will_v be_v no_o small_a evidence_n of_o life_n and_o sense_n in_o the_o inward_a man_n and_o of_o such_o a_o disposition_n it_o may_v be_v say_v as_o it_o be_v write_v cant._n 2._o 13._o the_o figtree_n put_v forth_o its_o green_a fig_n and_o the_o vine_n with_o the_o tender_a grape_n give_v a_o good_a smell_n for_o he_o that_o be_v flee_v to_o christ_n and_o lament_v his_o barrenness_n be_v a_o lover_n of_o do_v good_a work_n and_o of_o bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o gospel_n quest._n v._n q._n but_o how_o can_v a_o man_n maintain_v his_o faith_n in_o christ_n who_o after_o examination_n find_v no_o evidence_n at_o all_o of_o his_o conversion_n and_o that_o all_o his_o former_a life_n have_v be_v spend_v in_o the_o unfruitful_a course_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o the_o mater_fw-la be_v so_o indeed_o he_o have_v live_v after_o the_o course_n of_o this_o world_n a_o stranger_n to_o the_o life_n of_o god_n and_o grace_n ans._n let_v such_o a_o man_n examination_n and_o sentence_n of_o himself_o stand_v be_v according_a to_o the_o truth_n but_o this_o sentence_n of_o himself_o must_v not_o hinder_v he_o from_o believe_v in_o christ_n or_o from_o fly_v to_o he_o for_o refuge_n for_o remission_n of_o sin_n for_o reconciliation_n and_o furniture_n of_o grace_n to_o bring_v forth_o better_a fruit_n than_o he_o have_v bring_v forth_o before_o he_o have_v prove_v against_o himself_o that_o in_o time_n by-gone_a he_o have_v noâ—_n be_v a_o regenerate_a man_n have_v not_o be_v a_o believer_n in_o christ_n but_o he_o have_v not_o cut_v off_o himself_o from_o fly_v to_o christ_n and_o believe_v in_o he_o for_o time_n to_o come_v for_o he_o must_v put_v difference_n between_o these_o two_o question_n whether_o i_o have_v be_v of_o the_o number_n of_o sincere_a believer_n in_o christ_n heretofore_o and_o whether_o i_o must_v now_o â—lye_v to_o christ_n for_o time_n to_o come_v that_o i_o may_v be_v find_v hereafter_o and_o henceforth_o a_o true_a convert_n believe_v in_o christ_n his_o former_a want_n of_o good_a fruit_n altogether_o do_v prove_v he_o not_o to_o have_v be_v a_o believer_n in_o christ_n for_o time_n bypass_a which_o be_v the_o first_o question_n and_o the_o same_o want_n of_o all_o good_a fruit_n heretofore_o do_v answer_v the_o other_o question_n for_o his_o present_a duty_n and_o in_o time_n to_o come_v to_o wit_n that_o now_o except_o he_o will_v perish_v he_o must_v fly_v to_o christ_n and_o believe_v in_o he_o in_o prove_v of_o this_o assertion_n that_o i_o have_v heretofore_o for_o such_o a_o space_n of_o time_n be_v a_o true_a convert_n i_o must_v bring_v forth_o the_o evidence_n of_o my_o faith_n by_o my_o work_n as_o the_o apostle_n james_n appoint_v show_v i_o thy_o faith_n by_o thy_o work_n and_o i_o will_v show_v thou_o my_o faith_n by_o my_o work_n but_o in_o prove_v this_o other_o assertion_n to_o wit_n i_o must_v now_o fly_v to_o christ_n while_o the_o offer_n be_v make_v to_o i_o of_o reconciliation_n leave_v i_o perish_v it_o will_v suffice_v to_o produce_v first_o my_o want_n of_o good_a fruit_n and_o next_o the_o commandment_n of_o the_o gospel_n charge_v i_o to_o fly_v to_o christ_n for_o refuge_n in_o time_n leâ—t_o i_o perish_v and_o so_o a_o man_n must_v maintain_v the_o way_n of_o believe_v in_o christ_n jesus_n for_o time_n to_o come_v whether_o he_o find_v he_o have_v be_v a_o 〈◊〉_d or_o a_o barren_a branch_n in_o time_n bygone_a or_o not_o quest._n vi_o q._n sing_v the_o apostle_n 2_o pet._n 1._o 10._o command_v we_o to_o make_v our_o call_n and_o election_n sure_a by_o well-doing_n how_o can_v it_o be_v call_v carnal_a confidence_n which_o in_o part_n do_v lean_a upon_o good_a work_n for_o see_v assurance_n and_o certainty_n of_o our_o effectual_a call_n be_v not_o attain_v unto_o but_o by_o reason_v from_o our_o good_a work_n that_o we_o be_v call_v effectual_o and_o be_v elect_v how_o do_v not_o our_o work_n support_v the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n concern_v our_o call_n and_o election_n and_o so_o may_v be_v lean_v unto_o ans._n a_o man_n may_v make_v use_n of_o his_o good_a work_n for_o confirmation_n of_o his_o faith_n and_o yet_o not_o lean_a his_o confidence_n upon_o his_o work_n but_o upon_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n who_o have_v call_v he_o of_o his_o free_a grace_n and_o make_v he_o embrace_v the_o offer_n of_o his_o free_a grace_n and_o give_v unto_o he_o both_o to_o will_v and_o to_o do_v of_o his_o free_a grace_n and_o make_v he_o to_o be_v god_n workmanship_n create_v of_o god_n free_a grace_n unto_o good_a work_n wherein_o he_o have_v make_v he_o to_o walk_v thus_o grace_n be_v by_o god_n word_n and_o work_v clear_v up_o to_o the_o believer_n to_o rest_v upon_o without_o lay_v too_o much_o weight_n upon_o the_o man_n work_n but_o if_o a_o man_n lie_v hold_v on_o christ_n and_o his_o free_a grace_n only_o then_o when_o he_o observe_v in_o himself_o such_o and_o such_o fruit_n of_o faith_n and_o lose_v or_o slack_v his_o grip_n of_o christ_n when_o he_o feel_v deadness_n and_o indisposition_n to_o good_a work_n just_o we_o may_v call_v this_o a_o carnal_a confidence_n in_o his_o work_n for_o when_o he_o ought_v with_o paul_n rom._n 7._o 24_o 25._o so_o much_o the_o more_o to_o fly_v in_o to_o christ_n and_o his_o righteousness_n as_o he_o find_v the_o body_n of_o death_n powerful_a in_o he_o and_o inborn_a sin_n strong_a to_o hinder_v his_o obedience_n he_o do_v contrary_a way_n abate_v of_o his_o confidence_n languish_v and_o decay_v in_o his_o faith_n and_o look_v like_o a_o departer_n from_o christ_n we_o must_v say_v he_o put_v carnal_a confidence_n in_o his_o own_o work_n quest._n vii_o q._n but_o see_v it_o be_v impossible_a to_o persuade_v i_o of_o the_o truth_n and_o sincerity_n of_o save_a faith_n in_o i_o except_o i_o do_v observe_v in_o i_o and_o can_v bring_v forth_o my_o good_a work_n to_o prove_v the_o reality_n of_o faith_n in_o i_o how_o be_v it_o possible_a that_o i_o shall_v not_o lean_v weight_n on_o my_o good_a work_n see_v the_o proof_n of_o my_o faith_n be_v by_o my_o work_n which_o proof_n if_o i_o have_v not_o i_o be_o at_o a_o stand_n i_o can_v prove_v myself_o to_o have_v be_v a_o true_a believer_n in_o christ_n i_o can_v persuade_v myself_o that_o i_o have_v be_v and_o be_o a_o true_a believer_n in_o christ_n ans._n 1._o the_o observation_n of_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n in_o i_o be_v not_o the_o only_a proof_n of_o my_o believe_v in_o christ_n for_o the_o very_a act_n of_o embrace_v the_o offer_n of_o reconciliation_n make_v to_o i_o in_o the_o gospel_n and_o fly_v unto_o christ_n for_o a_o refuge_n when_o i_o be_o chase_v by_o the_o law_n by_o the_o
strive_v against_o all_o impediment_n and_o god_n will_v help_v we_o to_o fight_v will_v give_v the_o victory_n and_o reward_n it_o for_o our_o encouragement_n to_o set_v upon_o our_o duty_n as_o for_o the_o other_o case_n of_o set_v on_o the_o duty_n and_o miss_v of_o furniture_n to_o discharge_v it_o let_v we_o consider_v that_o god_n in_o this_o dispensation_n be_v teach_v we_o that_o both_o the_o discharge_n of_o any_o duty_n and_o the_o success_n thereof_o do_v not_o depend_v upon_o he_o that_o will_v or_o on_o he_o that_o run_v but_o upon_o god_n that_o show_v mercy_n yea_o he_o teach_v we_o by_o experience_n that_o to_o will_v and_o to_o do_v be_v two_o distinct_a gift_n the_o one_o whereof_o sometime_o he_o will_v give_v and_o not_o the_o other_o and_o sometime_o he_o will_v give_v both_o that_o we_o may_v learn_v not_o to_o limit_v the_o lord_n in_o any_o case_n but_o real_o acknowledge_v that_o every_o good_a gift_n it_o from_o he_o that_o we_o may_v aim_v at_o our_o duty_n and_o depend_v on_o he_o for_o the_o blessing_n the_o fourteen_o question_n be_v how_o to_o solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o convert_n in_o another_o like_a comparison_n of_o his_o disposition_n and_o god_n dispensation_n some_o convert_n out_o of_o their_o own_o experience_n may_v say_v i_o be_v in_o a_o sad_a condition_n of_o heart_n have_v sundry_a time_n diligent_o use_v all_o mean_n to_o be_v comfort_v and_o have_v wonder_v within_o myself_o that_o my_o pain_n have_v produce_v no_o hoped-for_a effect_n but_o the_o heart_n have_v lyen_fw-we dead_a like_o the_o child_n of_o the_o shunamit_n when_o gehasi_n lay_v the_o staff_n of_o elisha_n upon_o he_o at_o another_o time_n i_o have_v be_v surprise_v unexpected_o with_o enlargement_n of_o heart_n with_o liberty_n of_o speech_n in_o prayer_n with_o peace_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n to_z the_o no_o small_a confirmation_n of_o my_o faith_n and_o what_o to_o think_v of_o this_o divers_a dispensation_n i_o can_v tell_v 2._o for_o answer_v the_o doubt_n may_v be_v satisfy_v by_o observation_n of_o the_o lord_n grace_n and_o wisdom_n towards_o his_o child_n in_o the_o first_o case_n he_o give_v grace_n to_o use_v the_o mean_n and_o suspend_v the_o sensible_a fruit_n thereof_o to_o teach_v we_o 1._o that_o he_o have_v indeed_o tie_v we_o to_o the_o use_n of_o all_o appoint_v meatis_fw-la but_o leave_v himself_o free_a to_o give_v the_o fruit_n thereof_o in_o what_o time_n and_o in_o what_o measure_n he_o please_v 2._o he_o teach_v we_o that_o whatsoever_o benefit_n he_o do_v bestow_v upon_o we_o in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n he_o do_v bestow_v they_o not_o for_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n but_o by_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n 3._o he_o teach_v we_o that_o there_o be_v no_o inherent_a virtue_n nor_o effectual_a power_n in_o the_o mean_n but_o that_o the_o mean_n be_v the_o way_n wherein_o we_o must_v walk_v that_o we_o may_v find_v the_o blessing_n from_o god_n in_o use_v the_o mean_n and_o not_o put_v confidence_n in_o they_o 4._o he_o teach_v we_o whatsoever_o mean_v or_o instrument_n be_v make_v use_n of_o we_o shall_v with_o paul_n plant_v and_o apollo_n water_v give_v the_o glory_n of_o the_o increase_n fruit_n and_o success_n unto_o god_n alone_o 3._o as_o to_o the_o other_o case_n wherein_o the_o lord_n do_v prevent_v his_o child_n use_v of_o mean_n and_o give_v a_o answer_n ere_o he_o call_v thereby_o he_o teach_v we_o the_o same_o lesson_n to_o wit_n that_o what_o blessing_n god_n do_v give_v he_o do_v it_o free_o of_o grace_n and_o not_o for_o work_n 2._o he_o teach_v we_o that_o what_o blessing_n we_o expect_v in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n he_o will_v give_v it_o not_o when_o we_o will_v nor_o in_o what_o measure_n we_o will_v but_o as_o he_o see_v it_o fit_a for_o our_o good_a and_o his_o own_o glory_n that_o so_o we_o shall_v neither_o be_v frustrate_a of_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o mean_n use_v nor_o yet_o conceive_v the_o fruit_n thereof_o as_o a_o deserve_a reward_n of_o work_n but_o as_o a_o gift_n of_o mere_a grace_n the_o fifteen_o question_n shall_v be_v about_o the_o measure_n of_o mortification_n or_o sanctification_n whether_o it_o be_v grow_v or_o decay_v ofttime_n true_a convert_v fall_v in_o this_o doubt_n not_o indeed_o when_o they_o be_v in_o a_o sensible_a and_o comfortable_a condition_n for_o than_o they_o seem_v to_o themselves_o to_o be_v grow_v in_o holiness_n neither_o fall_v they_o in_o this_o doubt_n when_o their_o condition_n be_v sensible_o evil_a as_o when_o the_o power_n of_o inborn_a sin_n either_o break_v forth_o in_o action_n external_o or_o defile_v their_o spirit_n at_o least_o for_o than_o they_o seem_v to_o themselves_o to_o be_v decay_v but_o this_o doubt_n arise_v when_o they_o be_v go_v on_o in_o their_o ordinary_a way_n of_o a_o blameless_a conversation_n without_o any_o observable_a change_n of_o their_o spiritual_a condition_n to_o the_o better_a or_o to_o the_o worse_o then_o be_v it_o that_o they_o seem_v to_o themselves_o in_o a_o dubious_a condition_n and_o can_v say_v whether_o mortification_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n or_o sanctification_n be_v on_o the_o grow_a hand_n or_o not_o 2._o for_o answer_v to_o this_o doubt_n about_o the_o measure_n of_o holiness_n 1._o it_o be_v not_o safe_a curious_o to_o inquire_v what_o measure_n of_o holiness_n a_o man_n have_v attain_v for_o as_o it_o be_v not_o good_a to_o eat_v much_o honey_n so_o for_o man_n to_o search_v out_o their_o own_o glory_n it_o be_v not_o glory_n prov._n 25._o 27._o second_o it_o be_v hard_o to_o determine_v the_o question_n for_o god_n use_v to_o hide_v from_o his_o child_n especial_o the_o young_a sort_n these_o operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n which_o may_v in_o any_o sort_n weaken_v their_o endeavour_n in_o piety_n or_o soft_a pride_n in_o they_o but_o he_o discover_v unto_o they_o their_o sinfulness_n and_o the_o imperfection_n of_o their_o obedience_n that_o he_o may_v set_v forward_o their_o repentance_n and_o lay_v hold_n on_o christ_n righteousness_n three_o there_o be_v such_o a_o instability_n of_o any_o good_a condition_n wherein_o any_o convert_n may_v be_v so_o great_a variety_n of_o tentation_n such_o a_o vicissitude_n of_o victory_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o of_o the_o spirit_n in_o their_o daily_a conflict_n that_o hardly_o can_v any_o man_n satisfy_v himself_o in_o the_o solution_n of_o this_o question_n for_o he_o who_o think_v himself_o dead_a to_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o to_o riches_n and_o honour_n may_v short_o find_v himself_o overtake_v in_o the_o net_n and_o fall_v soul_o in_o the_o mire_n and_o be_v find_v carnal_a therefore_o let_v he_o that_o stand_v take_v heed_n lest_o he_o fall_v let_v he_o watch_v and_o pray_v lest_o he_o be_v overcome_v in_o tentation_n let_v he_o study_v to_o observe_v the_o wickedness_n of_o nature_n and_o imperfection_n of_o his_o best_a work_n that_o the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n may_v be_v in_o great_a estimation_n in_o our_o eye_n and_o we_o may_v grow_v in_o faith_n and_o love_n towards_o god_n draw_v virtue_n from_o christ_n and_o furniture_n to_o every_o good_a work_n this_o be_v the_o way_n to_o grow_v in_o holiness_n indeed_o and_o not_o to_o be_v proud_a for_o any_o thing_n in_o we_o or_o do_v by_o we_o and_o this_o be_v the_o way_n wherein_o the_o apostle_n do_v constant_o walk_v phil._n 3._o 14_o 15._o 16._o the_o sixteen_o question_n be_v what_o the_o convert_n shall_v think_v or_o do_v in_o hard_a affliction_n when_o the_o convert_n do_v fall_v in_o longsome_a bodily_a disease_n and_o sad_a affliction_n by_o unexpected_a and_o long-lasting_a adversity_n when_o satan_n be_v permit_v to_o vex_v he_o with_o sore_a tentation_n when_o god_n do_v hide_v his_o face_n for_o a_o long_a time_n from_o he_o when_o he_o expose_v he_o unto_o the_o cruel_a persecution_n of_o worldly_a man_n he_o can_v choose_v but_o fall_v in_o many_o doubt_n and_o perplexity_n for_o when_o god_n do_v immediate_o afflict_v he_o he_o ready_o suspect_v that_o god_n be_v angry_a at_o he_o if_o he_o louse_v reins_n unto_o satan_n to_o sift_v he_o and_o vex_v he_o if_o he_o answer_v not_o his_o supplication_n comfort_v he_o not_o ready_o what_o wonder_v multitude_n of_o thought_n arise_v in_o his_o heart_n the_o question_n be_v in_o this_o case_n what_o shall_v the_o convert_v think_v or_o do_v 2._o for_o answer_v it_o be_v true_a the_o lord_n use_v ofttimes_o in_o his_o deep_a wisdom_n and_o unchangeable_a love_n to_o his_o child_n to_o exercise_v they_o as_o be_v say_v and_o satan_n will_v not_o fail_v to_o whisper_v in_o their_o ear_n that_o god_n do_v not_o love_v they_o in_o which_o case_n if_o the_o convert_n do_v not_o stand_v fast_o in_o the_o faith_n
danger_n we_o be_v in_o but_o it_o be_v pour_v into_o he_o and_o not_o only_o on_o he_o that_o he_o for_o the_o sin_n of_o his_o redeem_a shall_v suffer_v it_o sensible_o and_o as_o it_o be_v drink_v it_o that_o the_o bitterness_n thereof_o may_v affect_v all_o the_o power_n of_o soul_n and_o body_n for_o the_o scripture_n testify_v that_o not_o only_o upon_o the_o sight_n and_o apprehension_n of_o this_o wrath_n and_o curse_n come_v on_o he_o the_o holy_a humane_a nature_n do_v holy_o abhor_v it_o but_o also_o that_o he_o submit_v to_o receive_v it_o upon_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o divine_a decree_n and_o agreement_n make_v upon_o the_o price_n to_o be_v pay_v by_o he_o and_o that_o upon_o the_o feel_n of_o this_o wrath_n this_o agony_n in_o his_o soul_n and_o bloody_a sweat_n of_o his_o body_n be_v bring_v on_o obj._n but_o how_o can_v the_o pour_v forth_o of_o the_o father_n wrath_n upon_o his_o innocent_a and_o dear_a son_n consist_v with_o his_o fatherly_a love_n to_o he_o ans._n even_o as_o the_o innocency_n and_o holiness_n of_o christ_n can_v well_o consist_v with_o his_o take_n upon_o he_o the_o punishment_n of_o our_o sin_n for_o even_o the_o wrath_n of_o a_o just_a man_n inflict_v capital_a punishment_n on_o a_o condemn_a person_n put_v case_n his_o own_o child_n can_v well_o consist_v with_o fatherly_a affection_n towards_o the_o child_n suffer_v punishment_n therefore_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v doubt_v but_o these_o two_o can_v well_o consist_v in_o god_n in_o who_o affection_n do_v not_o war_v one_o with_o another_o nor_o sight_n with_o reason_n as_o it_o fall_v forth_o among_o man_n for_o the_o affection_n ascribe_v unto_o god_n be_v effect_n rather_o of_o his_o holy_a will_n towards_o we_o then_o proper_o call_v affection_n in_o he_o and_o these_o effect_n of_o god_n will_v about_o we_o do_v always_o tend_v to_o our_o good_a and_o blessedness_n at_o last_o however_o diverse_a one_o from_o another_o in_o themselves_o 9_o among_o the_o degree_n of_o the_o suffering_n of_o christ_n soul_n we_o may_v number_v not_o only_o the_o perturbation_n of_o his_o mind_n and_o thought_n but_o also_o the_o perturbation_n of_o his_o affection_n and_o especial_o his_o fear_n for_o his_o humane_a nature_n be_v like_a unto_o we_o in_o all_o thing_n except_o sin_n and_o be_v indeed_o fear_v when_o it_o see_v and_o feel_v the_o wrath_n of_o god_n lest_o it_o shall_v have_v be_v swallow_v up_o by_o it_o and_o of_o this_o fear_n the_o apostle_n heb._n 5._o 7._o bear_v witness_v say_v who_o in_o the_o day_n of_o his_o flesh_n when_o he_o have_v offer_v up_o prayer_n and_o supplication_n and_o strong_a cry_n and_o tear_n unto_o he_o that_o be_v able_a to_o save_v he_o from_o death_n and_o be_v hear_v in_o that_o he_o fear_v now_o albeit_o this_o seem_v the_o sad_a passage_n of_o all_o his_o suffering_n that_o he_o be_v fear_v for_o be_v swallow_v up_o yet_o this_o his_o fear_n be_v not_o to_o be_v wonder_v at_o nor_o be_v it_o inconsistent_a with_o his_o holiness_n for_o when_o christ_n assume_v our_o nature_n as_o have_v be_v say_v he_o assume_v also_o all_o the_o common_a and_o sinless_a infirmity_n passion_n and_o perturbation_n of_o our_o nature_n now_o it_o be_v kind_o that_o the_o creature_n at_o the_o sight_n of_o a_o angry_a god_n shall_v tremble_v for_o we_o read_v that_o the_o rock_n and_o mountain_n have_v tremble_v before_o god_n when_o he_o do_v let_v forth_o his_o terror_n and_o it_o be_v natural_a to_o man_n at_o the_o sight_n of_o a_o terrible_a object_n at_o the_o sight_n of_o a_o peril_n and_o evil_a come_n upon_o he_o but_o much_o more_o already_o come_v upon_o he_o especial_o if_o the_o evil_a and_o peril_n be_v above_o all_o his_o natural_a strength_n to_o tremble_v and_o fear_v the_o worst_a and_o this_o become_v holy_a nature_n very_o well_o to_o fear_v present_a death_n off-cutting_a perdition_n and_o swallow_v up_o in_o the_o danger_n when_o god_n appear_v angry_a and_o be_v haste_v to_o be_v avenge_v on_o sinner_n in_o the_o person_n of_o their_o surety_n what_o can_v the_o humane_a soul_n of_o christ_n gather_v from_o this_o terrible_a sight_n but_o that_o which_o sense_n and_o reason_n do_v teach_v in_o the_o mean_a time_n there_o be_v no_o place_n here_o for_o his_o doubt_v of_o the_o issue_n and_o his_o escape_v from_o be_v swallow_v up_o for_o natural_a fear_n of_o the_o manly_a nature_n arise_v from_o the_o infirmity_n of_o the_o creature_n differ_v very_o far_o from_o the_o fear_n arise_v from_o the_o infirmity_n of_o faith_n in_o god_n faithfulness_n and_o power_n and_o natural_a fear_n of_o the_o worst_a can_v very_o well_o stand_v with_o the_o strength_n of_o faith_n to_o overcome_v the_o natural_a fear_n for_o as_o the_o sensitive_a appetite_n may_v abhor_v a_o bitter_a cup_n of_o medicine_n and_o cause_v all_o the_o body_n tremble_v for_o fear_n to_o take_v it_o while_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n the_o man_n by_o reason_n be_v resolve_v to_o drink_v that_o bitter_a cup_n of_o medicine_n because_o he_o confident_o hope_v to_o help_v his_o health_n thereby_o so_o natural_a fear_n in_o christ_n to_o taste_v of_o the_o cup_n of_o wrath_n can_v very_o well_o consist_v with_o strong_a faith_n and_o assurance_n to_o be_v deliver_v therefrom_o for_o it_o be_v very_o suitable_a that_o faith_n shall_v as_o far_o overcome_v the_o natural_a apprehension_n of_o sense_n and_o reason_n natural_a as_o reason_n do_v overcome_v sense_n in_o drink_v a_o loathsome_a and_o bitter_a cup_n of_o medicine_n and_o to_o clear_v this_o yet_o further_o that_o extreme_a fear_n to_o be_v swallow_v up_o of_o wrath_n can_v well_o consist_v in_o christ_n with_o strong_a faith_n to_o overcome_v and_o bear_v out_o that_o terrible_a wrath_n let_v it_o be_v consider_v that_o as_o it_o be_v needful_a christ_n shall_v be_v subject_a to_o the_o infirmity_n of_o natural_a strength_n that_o he_o may_v suffer_v death_n so_o it_o be_v needful_a that_o he_o shall_v have_v strong_a faith_n to_o enable_v he_o to_o bear_v out_o in_o a_o holy_a way_n that_o which_o he_o behove_v to_o suffer_v for_o if_o on_o the_o one_o hand_n christ_n have_v not_o be_v weaken_v and_o empty_v of_o all_o humane_a strength_n in_o his_o flesh_n he_o can_v not_o have_v be_v humble_v enough_o for_o we_o he_o can_v not_o have_v suffer_v so_o much_o as_o justice_n do_v exact_a for_o satisfaction_n for_o we_o and_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n if_o he_o have_v not_o stand_v firm_a in_o faith_n and_o love_n towards_o god_n glory_n and_o our_o salvation_n he_o can_v not_o have_v satisfy_v justice_n nor_o be_v still_o the_o innocent_a and_o spotless_a lamb_n of_o god_n nor_o have_v perfect_v the_o expiatory_a sacrifice_n for_o we_o obj._n but_o be_v he_o not_o tempt_v to_o doubt_v by_o satan_n ans._n we_o grant_v that_o he_o be_v indeed_o tempt_v by_o satan_n to_o doubt_v yea_o we_o shall_v not_o stand_v to_o grant_v that_o he_o be_v tempt_v to_o desperation_n but_o we_o altogether_o deny_v that_o he_o be_v taint_v with_o sin_n by_o temptation_n in_o the_o least_o degree_n for_o the_o scripture_n say_v he_o be_v tempt_v in_o all_o thing_n like_v unto_o we_o but_o yet_o without_o sin_n in_o he_o or_o yield_v in_o any_o sort_n to_o any_o temptation_n and_o see_v by_o the_o evangelist_n matth._n 4._o we_o understand_v that_o he_o be_v tempt_v in_o the_o wilderness_n by_o the_o devil_n unto_o the_o most_o horrible_a sin_n that_o satan_n can_v devise_v and_o yet_o be_v not_o stain_v or_o pollute_v in_o the_o least_o degree_n with_o the_o least_o measure_n of_o yield_v to_o the_o sinful_a temptation_n we_o need_v not_o stand_v to_o grant_v that_o he_o may_v be_v tempt_v or_o that_o he_o be_v tempt_v unto_o doubt_v and_o desperation_n for_o this_o be_v among_o the_o most_o notable_a and_o prime_a temptation_n whereby_o satan_n in_o his_o impudent_a boldness_n solicit_v the_o son_n of_o god_n very_a god_n and_o man_n in_o one_o person_n even_o to_o doubt_v of_o that_o what_o satan_n know_v he_o be_v if_o thou_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n say_v he_o it_o be_v true_a indeed_o that_o we_o who_o be_v sinner_n by_o nature_n and_o corrupt_v in_o all_o the_o power_n of_o our_o soul_n can_v be_v tempt_v toss_v and_o trouble_v but_o therein_o our_o sinful_a nature_n in_o some_o measure_n may_v appear_v and_o be_v pollute_v but_o the_o mater_fw-la be_v not_o so_o with_o our_o holy_a lord_n the_o god_n of_o glory_n who_o be_v separat_fw-la from_o sinner_n for_o our_o impure_a nature_n be_v like_a to_o water_n in_o a_o puddle_n which_o be_v stir_v do_v present_o become_v muddy_a and_o foul_a but_o the_o holy_a humane_a nature_n of_o christ_n be_v altogether_o pure_a like_a unto_o clear_a and_o pure_a fountain_n
every_o one_o that_o thirst_v come_v to_o these_o water_n etc._n etc._n isa._n 55._o and_o beside_o these_o promise_n which_o contain_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n make_v to_o they_o who_o embrace_v the_o condition_n and_o do_v already_o believe_v such_o as_o be_v they_o that_o believe_v in_o i_o shall_v not_o perish_v but_o shall_v inherit_v eternal_a life_n there_o be_v also_o promise_v conditional_a serve_v to_o make_v man_n who_o profess_v faith_n in_o christ_n to_o be_v real_a and_o steadfast_a in_o the_o covenant_n wherein_o they_o be_v at_o least_o outward_o and_o solemn_o enter_v such_o as_o joh._n 15._o 7_o 10._o if_o you_o abide_v in_o i_o and_o my_o word_n abide_v in_o you_o you_o shall_v ask_v what_o you_o will_v and_o it_o shall_v be_v do_v unto_o you_o and_o if_o you_o keep_v my_o command_n you_o shall_v abide_v in_o my_o love_n etc._n etc._n and_o joh._n 12._o 26._o if_o any_o man_n serve_v i_o he_o will_v my_o father_n honour_n and_o joh._n 14._o 21._o he_o that_o love_v i_o shall_v be_v love_v of_o my_o father_n and_o i_o will_v love_v he_o and_o manifest_v myself_o unto_o he_o obj._n see_v it_o be_v certain_a that_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n be_v not_o the_o do_v of_o one_o or_o more_o work_n but_o faith_n receive_v christ_n offer_v without_o respect_n to_o our_o work_n as_o any_o part_n of_o the_o condition_n and_o see_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n be_v not_o the_o have_v or_o exercise_v of_o such_o and_o such_o virtue_n but_o the_o receive_n of_o christ_n through_o faith_n unto_o righteousness_n and_o eternal_a life_n by_o the_o man_n who_o have_v renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o work_n how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o such_o conditional_a promise_n be_v make_v to_o they_o that_o be_v endue_v with_o and_o do_v exercise_n such_o virtue_n ans._n albeit_o the_o endeavour_n to_o work_v good_a work_n or_o the_o exercise_n of_o such_o and_o such_o virtue_n prescribe_v by_o christ_n can_v be_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n for_o then_o no_o man_n can_v close_v covenant_n with_o christ_n till_o first_o he_o shall_v find_v these_o virtue_n in_o himself_o and_o have_v give_v proof_n of_o his_o constant_a exercise_n thereof_o yet_o such_o conditional_a promise_n be_v make_v use_n of_o after_o a_o man_n have_v close_v covenant_n with_o christ_n by_o faith_n as_o condition_n require_v in_o a_o true_a believer_n to_o evidence_n the_o sincerity_n of_o his_o faith_n and_o that_o because_o many_o make_v pretence_n of_o their_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o yet_o do_v turn_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n into_o wantonness_n and_o do_v no_o way_n set_v themselves_o to_o new_a obedience_n unto_o god_n law_n and_o be_v no_o way_n careful_a to_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n suitable_a to_o profess_a repentance_n but_o be_v indulgent_a to_o their_o vicious_a and_o fleshly_a lust_n and_o in_o effect_n do_v renounce_v all_o endeavour_n to_o exercise_v good_a work_n in_o stead_n of_o renounce_v a_o carnal_a confidence_n in_o good_a work_n therefore_o god_n do_v put_v the_o endeavour_n to_o exercise_v christian_a virtue_n on_o all_o profess_a believer_n as_o a_o condition_n distinguish_v a_o sincere_a believer_n from_o a_o hypocrite_n lest_o any_o man_n shall_v please_v himself_o because_o he_o be_v external_o in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n while_n it_o may_v be_v as_o yet_o his_o faith_n be_v but_o a_o dead_a faith_n not_o work_v by_o love_n against_o which_o sort_n of_o pretend_a believer_n jame_v chap._n 2._o dispute_v such_o conditional_a promise_n be_v direct_v towards_o they_o that_o be_v outward_o already_o in_o covenant_n and_o do_v serve_v for_o these_o several_a use_n first_o that_o such_o as_o both_o profess_v faith_n in_o christ_n and_o be_v endeavour_v the_o duty_n require_v in_o such_o conditional_a promise_n may_v acknowledge_v that_o they_o have_v obtain_v of_o the_o lord_n grace_n for_o grace_n grace_v to_o believe_v and_o grace_v to_o bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n second_o that_o the_o honest_a heart_a may_v be_v encourage_v te_fw-la set_v upon_o these_o duty_n and_o may_v hope_v to_o be_v furnish_v for_o they_o out_o of_o the_o rich_a fountain_n of_o christ_n grace_n john_n 1._o 16._o three_o they_o serve_v to_o make_v such_o as_o believe_v in_o christ_n when_o they_o feel_v the_o in-lake_n of_o any_o such_o command_v duty_n or_o the_o bitter_a root_n of_o any_o vice_n in_o themselves_o to_o humble_v themselves_o in_o the_o sense_n thereof_o aâ—d_v to_o fly_v more_o earnest_o to_o christ_n the_o redeemer_n that_o first_o they_o may_v be_v cover_v with_o his_o righteousness_n and_o then_o from_o he_o receive_v the_o power_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n to_o bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n as_o he_o have_v promise_v joh._n 15._o 5._o if_o you_o abide_v in_o i_o you_o shall_v bring_v forth_o much_o fruit_n four_o they_o serve_v to_o make_v believer_n in_o christ_n subject_v themselves_o to_o the_o order_n of_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n who_o give_v grace_n for_o grace_n and_o work_v one_o grace_n before_o another_o in_o his_o own_o order_n as_o the_o foresay_a promise_n do_v import_v five_o they_o serve_v to_o stir_v up_o believer_n in_o christ_n to_o the_o love_n and_o exercise_v of_o such_o and_o such_o virtue_n in_o the_o hope_n of_o the_o promise_a reward_n six_o they_o serve_v to_o move_v believer_n to_o join_v one_o virtue_n to_o another_o for_o certify_v themselves_o of_o their_o own_o call_n and_o election_n by_o their_o growth_n therein_o 2_o pet._n 1._o 3_o 4._o 12._o last_o of_o all_o they_o serve_v to_o make_v these_o who_o be_v destitute_a and_o void_a of_o such_o qualification_n and_o be_v careless_a to_o have_v they_o manifest_a to_o themselves_o and_o other_o that_o they_o be_v blind_a and_o can_v see_v a_o far_o off_o and_o that_o they_o have_v forget_v that_o they_o be_v in_o baptism_n ecclesiastical_o purge_v form_n their_o old_a sin_n 2_o pet._n 1._o 9_o obj._n how_o can_v this_o offer_n of_o grace_n to_o all_o the_o hearer_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o solemn_a make_n of_o a_o covenant_n with_o all_o that_o profess_v they_o do_v accept_v of_o the_o offer_n stand_v with_o the_o doctrine_n of_o election_n of_o some_o and_o reprobation_n of_o other_o or_o with_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n redeem_n of_o the_o elect_a only_o and_o not_o of_o all_o and_o every_o man_n ans._n the_o election_n of_o some_o and_o reprobation_n of_o other_o be_v make_v clear_a of_o old_a by_o god_n make_v offer_n of_o grace_n unto_o and_o covenant_v with_o one_o nation_n only_o and_o not_o with_o any_o other_o psa._n 147._o 19_o 20._o he_o show_v his_o word_n unto_o jacob_n his_o statute_n and_o his_o judgement_n unto_o israel_n he_o have_v not_o deal_v so_o with_o any_o nation_n anâ—_n as_o for_o his_o judgement_n they_o have_v not_o know_v they_o 2._o and_o the_o offer_n of_o grace_n to_o all_o hearer_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o covenant_v with_o all_o that_o profess_v to_o accept_v the_o offer_n do_v consist_v with_o the_o election_n of_o some_o only_a as_o well_o now_o as_o of_o old_a when_o god_n make_v a_o covenant_n external_a and_o conditional_a with_o all_o israel_n of_o who_o the_o great_a part_n be_v not_o elect_v to_o life_n and_o of_o who_o it_o be_v say_v albeit_o they_o be_v in_o number_n as_o the_o sand_n of_o the_o sea_n yet_o a_o remnant_n of_o they_o only_o be_v to_o be_v save_v isa._n 10._o 22._o for_o by_o this_o course_n god_n be_v not_o frustrate_v of_o his_o purpose_n and_o fruit_n of_o his_o covenant_v with_o the_o mix_a multitude_n of_o israelit_n for_o the_o elect_a by_o faith_n obtain_v righteousness_n and_o life_n but_o the_o rest_n be_v blind_v rom._n 11._o 7._o 3._o this_o common_a offer_n of_o grace_n to_o all_o the_o hearer_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o make_n of_o a_o moral_a covenant_n with_o all_o that_o do_v profess_v that_o they_o accept_v the_o offer_n may_v stand_v with_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n redeem_v the_o elect_a only_o no_o less_o now_o then_o of_o old_a when_o christ_n do_v make_v offer_n of_o grace_n to_o they_o that_o be_v not_o his_o sheep_n joh._n 10._o 26._o and_o do_v receive_v sundry_a in_o among_o his_o disciple_n in_o external_a covenant_n who_o do_v afterward_o forsake_v he_o joh._n 6._o 66._o but_o yet_o he_o do_v save_v and_o do_v save_o all_o his_o elect_a sheep_n who_o the_o father_n have_v give_v unto_o he_o joh._n 10._o 65._o and_o however_o this_o doctrine_n sound_v harsh_a in_o the_o ear_n of_o many_o when_o they_o hear_v of_o any_o reprobat_fw-la or_o not_o elect_v or_o when_o they_o hear_v that_o christ_n do_v not_o lay_v down_o his_o life_n for_o all_o and_o every_o man_n but_o for_o the_o elect_a only_o and_o proud_a man_n
faith_n in_o christ_n bestow_v on_o himself_o now_o in_o experience_n have_v flow_v from_o that_o fountain_n of_o god_n love_n and_o free_a grace_n through_o christ._n except_o this_o order_n be_v keep_v a_o man_n can_v warrantable_o and_o with_o confidence_n and_o comfort_n make_v application_n of_o these_o covenant_n hence_o it_o follow_v that_o it_o be_v a_o preposterous_a and_o perilous_a course_n which_o some_o do_v follow_v and_o press_v other_o to_o follow_v that_o present_o upon_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o gospel_n every_o man_n shall_v believe_v that_o christ_n have_v die_v for_o he_o for_o christ_n call_v no_o man_n warrand_v no_o man_n to_o come_v to_o he_o except_o he_o first_o do_v acknowledge_v his_o sin_n and_o himself_o to_o be_v worthy_a of_o wrath_n condemnation_n and_o hell_n for_o his_o sin_n and_o to_o be_v utter_o unable_a to_o save_v himself_o by_o any_o mean_a save_v by_o christ_n for_o luke_n 5._o 32._o christ_n say_v i_o come_v not_o to_o call_v the_o righteous_a but_o sinner_n unto_o repentance_n neither_o do_v christ_n require_v of_o any_o man_n to_o believe_v himself_o to_o be_v of_o the_o number_n of_o christ_n sheep_n for_o who_o he_o lay_v down_o his_o life_n except_o he_o come_v by_o faith_n as_o a_o lose_a sinner_n to_o he_o and_o submit_v himself_o to_o his_o doctrine_n and_o discipline_n and_o pastoral_a care_n over_o he_o for_o joh._n 17._o 9_o christ_n say_v i_o pray_v not_o for_o the_o world_n but_o for_o these_o thou_o have_v give_v i_o out_o of_o the_o world_n and_o no_o man_n shall_v know_v that_o himself_o be_v give_v of_o the_o father_n to_o christ_n till_o first_o he_o come_v in_o the_o order_n foresay_a unto_o christ_n and_o when_o he_o be_v come_v to_o christ_n resolve_v to_o abide_v with_o he_o then_o may_v he_o say_v the_o father_n have_v give_v i_o to_o christ_n and_o draw_v i_o to_o christ_n for_o this_o be_v the_o mark_n which_o christ_n give_v joh._n 6._o 37._o all_o that_o the_o father_n have_v give_v unto_o i_o shall_v come_v to_o i_o and_o again_o vers_fw-la 44._o no_o man_n come_v unto_o i_o except_o the_o father_n draw_v he_o 3._o there_o be_v a_o order_n alâ—o_o to_o be_v observe_v in_o the_o application_n of_o the_o grace_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n for_o in_o the_o evangel_n first_o christ_n himself_o be_v offer_v as_o the_o only_a and_o sufficient_a remedy_n against_o sin_n and_o misery_n and_o next_o unto_o the_o person_n that_o receive_v christ_n hearty_o all_o christ_n benefit_n be_v promise_v to_o come_v to_o he_o by_o christ_n and_o be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o and_o through_o christ_n such_o as_o be_v justification_n adoption_n the_o indwel_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n love_n joy_n peace_n gentleness_n bounty_n fidelity_n meekness_n temperance_n and_o other_o christian_a grace_n gal_n 5._o 22._o for_o no_o man_n have_v right_a unto_o christ_n benefit_n before_o he_o be_v a_o believer_n in_o christ._n but_o so_o soon_o as_o a_o man_n in_o the_o foresay_a order_n be_v flee_v unto_o christ_n and_o have_v lay_v hold_n on_o he_o by_o faith_n straight_a way_n a_o door_n and_o entresse_n be_v open_v unto_o he_o unto_o the_o rich_a treasure_n of_o grace_n and_o right_o be_v give_v to_o he_o unto_o all_o the_o benefit_n of_o christ_n for_o all_o the_o promise_n be_v yea_o and_o amen_o not_o before_o a_o man_n come_v to_o christ_n not_o to_o a_o man_n without_o christ_n but_o they_o be_v all_o yea_o and_o a_o man_n in_o christ._n 4._o therefore_o they_o wrong_v both_o god_n and_o their_o own_o self_n who_o when_o they_o come_v unto_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n do_v prescribe_v unto_o god_n another_o order_n of_o work_v than_o he_o have_v set_v down_o in_o his_o word_n crave_v in_o the_o first_o place_n consolation_n and_o sensible_a peace_n in_o their_o conscience_n feel_v in_o their_o heart_n and_o that_o god_n will_v work_v some_o such_o save_a grace_n in_o their_o heart_n which_o the_o reprobat_fw-la can_v counterfeit_v which_o direction_n if_o god_n will_v take_v off_o their_o hand_n and_o bestow_v his_o grace_n on_o they_o sensible_o as_o they_o prescribe_v unto_o he_o than_o they_o will_v stand_v oblige_v to_o continue_v in_o the_o faith_n of_o christ_n but_o if_o they_o find_v not_o their_o direction_n obey_v and_o their_o petition_n in_o their_o order_n grant_v then_o with_o grief_n of_o heart_n they_o begin_v to_o complain_v and_o to_o pretend_v that_o they_o dare_v not_o approach_v unto_o god_n or_o christ_n so_o long_o as_o these_o petition_n be_v not_o first_o grant_v and_o feel_v to_o be_v grant_v this_o temptation_n do_v invert_v and_o overturn_v the_o order_n of_o goâ—s_n call_v for_o christ_n do_v not_o call_v unto_o he_o well-doer_n or_o these_o that_o do_v find_v their_o faith_n upon_o their_o own_o good_a behaviour_n and_o lean_a to_o their_o own_o work_n which_o they_o desire_v to_o find_v in_o themselves_o before_o they_o fasten_v faith_n on_o christ_n but_o christ_n do_v call_v sinner_n in_o their_o own_o sense_n and_o acknowledgement_n who_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o their_o own_o work_n past_a present_a or_o to_o come_v he_o call_v such_o as_o be_v lose_v in_o their_o own_o sense_n and_o do_v feel_v themselves_o utter_o unable_a so_o much_o as_o to_o think_v a_o good_a thought_n of_o themselves_o that_o they_o may_v be_v clothe_v with_o the_o impute_a righteousness_n of_o christ_n and_o endue_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o sanctification_n by_o he_o and_o christ_n will_n be_v that_o they_o who_o believe_v in_o he_o abide_v in_o he_o and_o suck_v by_o faith_n out_o of_o he_o as_o the_o branch_n do_v suck_v sap_n out_o of_o the_o tree_n grace_v to_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n more_o and_o more_o abundant_o for_o this_o be_v the_o order_n which_o christ_n do_v prescribe_v unto_o his_o disciple_n joh._n 15._o 5._o he_o that_o abide_v in_o i_o and_o i_o in_o he_o the_o same_o bring_v forth_o much_o fruit_n for_o without_o i_o you_o can_v do_v nothing_o whosoever_o therefore_o will_v not_o believe_v in_o christ_n or_o do_v think_v it_o be_v not_o lawful_a to_o approach_v unto_o he_o till_o first_o they_o find_v in_o themselves_o amendment_n of_o life_n and_o evident_a fruit_n of_o save_a faith_n they_o do_v in_o effect_n change_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o do_v suspend_v their_o faith_n in_o christ_n till_o they_o find_v work_n to_o build_v upon_o when_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n the_o more_o they_o feel_v their_o barrenness_n so_o much_o the_o more_o strait_o to_o lay_v hold_n on_o christ_n and_o hold_v he_o fast_o and_o ply_v he_o with_o earnest_a supplication_n to_o make_v good_a his_o promise_n to_o they_o who_o do_v abide_v in_o he_o joh._n 15._o 5._o 5._o it_o be_v necessary_a to_o press_v every_o man_n who_o do_v believe_v his_o justification_n by_o faith_n that_o he_o be_v careful_a to_o observe_v the_o moral_a law_n or_o ten_o command_n as_o the_o perpetual_a and_o unchangeable_a rule_n of_o good_a work_n prescribe_v of_o god_n for_o christ_n come_v not_o to_o destroy_v the_o law_n but_o to_o fulfil_v it_o matth._n 5._o 17._o he_o have_v indeed_o unto_o believer_n in_o he_o dissolve_v the_o covenant_n of_o the_o law_n not_o only_o by_o his_o doctrine_n teach_v they_o that_o by_o the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n no_o flesh_n shall_v be_v justify_v in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n because_o by_o the_o law_n be_v the_o knowledge_n of_o sin_n get_v but_o no_o absolution_n from_o sin_n rom._n 3._o 20._o but_o also_o by_o absolve_v every_o believer_n in_o he_o that_o walk_v not_o after_o the_o flesh_n but_o after_o the_o spirit_n from_o all_o condemnation_n rom._n 8._o 1â—_n mean_a while_o he_o have_v not_o break_v the_o yoke_n of_o obedience_n of_o the_o law_n from_o off_o the_o believer_n as_o he_o have_v break_v off_o the_o yoke_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n but_o by_o the_o contrair_a he_o prescribe_v to_o they_o who_o come_v unto_o he_o for_o remission_n of_o sin_n that_o they_o take_v on_o his_o yoke_n upon_o they_o and_o bring_v forth_o work_v of_o new_a obedience_n matth._n 11._o 29._o and_o this_o be_v the_o order_n which_o the_o apostle_n do_v prescribe_v tit._n 3._o 8._o this_o be_v a_o faithful_a say_n and_o these_o thing_n i_o will_v thou_o affirm_v constant_o that_o they_o which_o have_v believe_v in_o god_n may_v be_v careful_a to_o maintain_v good_a work_n these_o thing_n be_v good_a and_o profitable_a unto_o man_n 6._o the_o moral_a precept_n of_o the_o law_n be_v so_o to_o be_v press_v that_o the_o hearer_n whether_o un-converted_n or_o convert_v may_v by_o they_o whether_o in_o some_o measure_n obey_v or_o disobey_v be_v drive_v to_o christ_n that_o the_o law_n may_v ever_o in_o some_o sort_n be_v a_o pedagogue_n unto_o christ_n for_o before_o conversion_n
conclusion_n draw_v therefrom_o and_o by_o holy_a reason_n tie_v themselves_o to_o believe_v and_o obey_v the_o word_n of_o god_n rom._n 6._o 11._o likeways_o say_v he_o by_o reason_v reckon_v you_o yourselves_o to_o be_v deal_n unto_o sin_n but_o alive_a unto_o god_n through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n and_o give_v a_o example_n of_o this_o reason_n 2_o cor._n 5._o 14._o 15._o the_o love_n of_o god_n constrain_v we_o because_o we_o thus_o judge_v etc._n etc._n 11._o because_o the_o lord_n divers_a way_n according_a to_o his_o own_o wisdom_n exercise_v man_n that_o sometime_o by_o his_o long-suffering_a patience_n he_o lead_v they_o unto_o repentance_n sometime_o also_o by_o his_o word_n and_o rod_n he_o do_v drive_v they_o thereunto_o therefore_o let_v the_o use_n of_o all_o exercise_n all_o temptation_n and_o affliction_n and_o the_o use_n of_o all_o benefit_n and_o divine_a dispensation_n of_o providence_n be_v careful_o make_v use_n of_o that_o man_n may_v so_o look_v upon_o god_n bounty_n and_o long-suffering_a on_o the_o one_o hand_n and_o upon_o their_o own_o sin_n and_o ill_a deserve_n on_o the_o other_o hand_n as_o they_o may_v be_v lead_v and_o constrain_v in_o love_n to_o seek_v after_o so_o gracious_a a_o god_n and_o to_o flee_v for_o refuge_n unto_o christ_n mourn_v for_o their_o provoke_v of_o justice_n so_o oft_o against_o themselves_o and_o in_o whatsoever_o condition_n of_o prosperity_n or_o adversity_n to_o submit_v themselves_o to_o god_n however_o he_o shall_v be_v please_v to_o dispose_v of_o they_o 12._o the_o doctrine_n of_o reprobation_n must_v not_o be_v determinate_o apply_v to_o any_o particular_a person_n how_o wicked_a soever_o he_o shall_v for_o the_o present_a appear_v neither_o must_v the_o suspicion_n which_o any_o man_n may_v have_v of_o his_o own_o reprobation_n be_v â—ostered_v because_o particular_a reprobation_n of_o this_o or_o that_o person_n be_v among_o the_o secret_n of_o the_o lord_n not_o to_o be_v meddle_v with_o whereof_o a_o man_n may_v not_o give_v out_o sentence_n before_o the_o lord_n have_v reveal_v his_o own_o decree_n but_o on_o the_o contrair_a all_o the_o hearer_n must_v be_v warn_v and_o press_v to_o be_v wary_a to_o entertain_v any_o hostile_a thought_n of_o god_n or_o to_o foster_v suspicion_n of_o he_o as_o implacable_a but_o rather_o think_v of_o he_o as_o their_o faithful_a creator_n just_o indeed_o yet_o merciful_a long-suffering_a and_o bountiful_a both_o to_o the_o kind_n and_o the_o un-kind_n as_o they_o shall_v find_v if_o they_o will_v seek_v he_o for_o satan_n will_v press_v this_o temptation_n hard_a enough_o and_o foster_v the_o suspicion_n which_o he_o have_v suggest_v against_o god_n in_o the_o mind_n of_o they_o who_o god_n have_v afflict_v albeit_o he_o get_v no_o assistance_n by_o any_o imprudent_a and_o un-just_a application_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n unto_o this_o or_o that_o particular_a person_n to_o conclude_v their_o reprobation_n 13._o the_o scope_n of_o all_o doctrine_n must_v be_v this_o that_o sinner_n may_v be_v humble_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o unrighteousness_n indigence_n infirmity_n and_o unworthiness_n and_o be_v humble_v may_v be_v lead_v unto_o christ_n believe_v in_o he_o and_o be_v more_o and_o more_o glue_v unto_o he_o and_o grow_v in_o the_o love_n of_o he_o and_o rest_v their_o soul_n upon_o he_o as_o god_n one_o with_o the_o father_n and_o holy_a spirit_n worship_v he_o in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n endeavour_v according_a to_o their_o vocation_n to_o advance_v his_o kingdom_n in_o themselves_o and_o other_o and_o to_o this_o end_n let_v neither_o on_o the_o one_o hand_n his_o incarnation_n nor_o humiliation_n in_o the_o day_n of_o his_o flesh_n wherein_o he_o be_v in_o pay_v the_o promise_a price_n of_o our_o redemption_n derogat_v any_o thing_n to_o the_o estimation_n of_o his_o person_n who_o be_v one_o god_n with_o the_o father_n and_o holy_a spirit_n god_n over_o all_o bless_a for_o ever_o nor_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n his_o majesty_n make_v sinner_n stand_v off_o or_o be_v afraid_a to_o make_v their_o address_n to_o he_o but_o by_o the_o contrair_a that_o the_o personal_a union_n of_o the_o divine_a and_o humane_a nature_n in_o he_o and_o his_o clothing_n himself_o with_o the_o office_n of_o prophet_n priest_n and_o king_n may_v allure_v all_o sinner_n who_o hear_v of_o he_o to_o come_v to_o he_o as_o mediator_a who_o will_v not_o deal_v with_o they_o who_o come_v unto_o he_o as_o a_o judge_n against_o they_o but_o as_o a_o advocate_n surety_n and_o intercessor_n for_o they_o and_o who_o will_v save_v to_o the_o uttermost_a every_o one_o that_o come_v unto_o god_n through_o he_o heb._n 7._o 25._o 14._o for_o trial_n of_o a_o man_n regeneration_n and_o come_v right_o to_o christ_n and_o grow_v in_o grace_n the_o exercise_n of_o these_o three_o duty_n be_v necessary_o require_v to_o wit_n 1._o the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n or_o the_o entertain_n in_o himself_o of_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o natural_a sinfulness_n and_o infirmity_n to_o do_v good_a and_o of_o the_o power_n of_o inherent_a corruption_n whereby_o he_o may_v be_v make_v more_o and_o more_o to_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o himself_o and_o walk_v humble_o before_o god_n 2._o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n or_o the_o daily_o renew_v employ_v of_o christ_n for_o grace_n and_o actual_a help_n in_o all_o thing_n as_o his_o case_n require_v 3._o the_o exercise_n of_o love_n or_o the_o endeavour_n of_o new_a obedience_n flow_v from_o love_n to_o god_n and_o his_o neighbour_n through_o christ._n chap._n ix_o of_o the_o more_o special_a application_n of_o divine_a covenant_n for_o remove_v the_o impediment_n of_o regeneration_n we_o have_v speak_v of_o the_o prudent_a application_n of_o divine_a covenant_n in_o general_a it_o follow_v that_o we_o speak_v of_o the_o cure_n of_o the_o sickness_n of_o the_o conscience_n concern_v regeneration_n more_o special_o some_o of_o these_o sickness_n do_v tend_v to_o hinder_v regeneration_n that_o it_o be_v not_o wrought_v at_o all_o whereof_o we_o shall_v speak_v god_n willing_a in_o the_o rest_n of_o this_o first_o book_n other_o sickness_n do_v tend_v to_o obscure_v the_o work_n of_o regeneration_n begin_v and_o to_o foster_v question_n in_o the_o regenerate_a man_n and_o make_v he_o doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v regenerate_v or_o not_o or_o whether_o he_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n or_o not_o and_o of_o these_o we_o shall_v speak_v somewhat_o in_o the_o second_o book_n and_o last_o of_o all_o some_o case_n and_o sickness_n of_o the_o conscience_n do_v tend_v towards_o the_o deceive_n of_o the_o regenerate_a man_n about_o his_o present_a condition_n wherein_o he_o be_v without_o call_v his_o state_n in_o question_n at_o the_o first_o and_o of_o these_o we_o shall_v speak_v in_o the_o three_o book_n 2._o as_o for_o the_o first_o sort_n these_o case_n which_o impede_fw-la and_o altogether_o mar_v regeneration_n can_v easy_o be_v number_v because_o of_o the_o multitude_n of_o deceit_n whereby_o the_o unregenerat_a be_v delude_v but_o it_o shall_v suffice_v for_o our_o purpose_n to_o name_v some_o of_o they_o only_o for_o example_n cause_n in_o handle_v whereof_o the_o way_n of_o cure_v other_o like_a case_n may_v be_v observe_v in_o handle_v of_o these_o case_n it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v expect_v we_o shall_v follow_v any_o exact_a method_n or_o accurate_a distinction_n of_o one_o case_n from_o another_o partly_o because_o many_o fault_n may_v be_v various_o interweave_v one_o with_o another_o partly_o because_o in_o all_o these_o case_n the_o same_o fault_n be_v find_v after_o divers_a way_n to_o put_v forth_o their_o poison_n we_o therefore_o that_o we_o may_v follow_v the_o easy_a course_n shall_v divide_v all_o unregenerat_a man_n impede_v their_o own_o regeneration_n in_o three_o rank_n the_o first_o rank_n shall_v be_v of_o those_o who_o eshew_v so_o far_o as_o they_o can_v all_o examination_n of_o their_o own_o conscience_n lest_o it_o shall_v pronounce_v sentence_n of_o their_o state_n and_o disquiet_v they_o the_o second_o rank_n shall_v be_v of_o those_o who_o do_v judge_v themselves_o indeed_o according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n but_o after_o examination_n do_v despair_n of_o any_o remedy_n the_o three_o rank_n shall_v be_v of_o those_o who_o make_v a_o slight_a examination_n of_o themselves_o and_o upon_o some_o slight_a pretence_n give_v our_o sentence_n of_o absolution_n of_o themselves_o which_o god_n will_v not_o allow_v 3._o as_o to_o the_o first_o rank_n to_o wit_n of_o those_o that_o eshew_v all_o examination_n of_o their_o own_o conscience_n we_o shall_v name_v only_o seven_o sickness_n or_o impediment_n hinder_v their_o self-examination_n and_o pass_a sentence_n on_o themselves_o the_o first_o be_v gross_a ignorance_n of_o their_o natural_a sin_n and_o misery_n and_o of_o deliverance_n to_o be_v have_v through_o christ_n
sin_n witting_o and_o from_o the_o slight_n of_o the_o admonition_n of_o the_o conscience_n arise_v up_o to_o the_o contempt_n of_o all_o accusation_n which_o the_o conscience_n can_v lay_v in_o against_o he_o and_o at_o last_o bold_o rise_v up_o against_o the_o conscience_n as_o it_o be_v to_o be_v avenge_v of_o it_o for_o rebuke_v he_o by_o commit_v these_o same_o sin_n most_o frequent_o for_o which_o he_o have_v be_v often_o reprove_v by_o his_o conscience_n the_o second_o cause_n may_v we_o reckon_v the_o devil_n who_o think_v it_o too_o little_a to_o allure_v man_n to_o sin_n and_o harden_v their_o heart_n in_o it_o and_o spoil_v they_o of_o all_o sense_n of_o their_o sin_n except_o he_o also_o draw_v they_o to_o renounce_v god_n and_o bark_n against_o he_o and_o become_v like_o the_o devil_n himself_o so_o far_o as_o he_o can_v drive_v they_o the_o three_o cause_n we_o make_v the_o holy_a justice_n of_o god_n give_v over_o the_o man_n who_o contemn_v the_o light_n and_o check_n of_o his_o conscience_n unto_o a_o reprobat_fw-la sense_n that_o be_v deprive_v of_o common_a use_n of_o reason_n and_o judgement_n he_o may_v run_v mad_a in_o his_o sin_n like_o the_o devil_n for_o if_o god_n do_v punish_v the_o heathen_a so_o for_o this_o sort_n of_o sin_v rom._n 1._o 28._o what_o wonder_v he_o punish_v seven_o time_n more_o they_o who_o thus_o rebel_n against_o the_o light_n of_o holy_a scripture_n yea_o these_o that_o do_v not_o come_v to_o this_o height_n be_v punish_v by_o give_v they_o over_o to_o strong_a delusion_n 2_o thess._n 2._o 11._o the_o last_o but_o sinless_a cause_n be_v the_o deep_a wisdom_n of_o god_n who_o suffer_v such_o wretch_n to_o fill_v up_o such_o a_o measure_n of_o sin_n do_v make_v manifest_a to_o all_o beholder_n the_o power_n and_o poison_n of_o inborn_a sin_n in_o man_n and_o draw_v forth_o to_o light_v the_o natural_a enimity_n of_o man_n against_o god_n the_o seed_n whereof_o be_v in_o all_o man_n and_o can_v hardly_o be_v believe_v to_o be_v incident_a to_o man_n except_o it_o be_v by_o experience_n see_v and_o find_v in_o some_o man_n for_o remedy_n of_o this_o evil_a it_o be_v too_o little_a that_o such_o a_o monster_n shall_v be_v drive_v from_o all_o church-society_n and_o give_v over_o to_o satan_n it_o be_v the_o part_n of_o the_o magistrate_n to_o bind_v beast_n and_o mad_a devil_n and_o punish_v they_o as_o it_o become_v the_o bearer_n of_o the_o sword_n to_o do_v for_o avenge_a of_o evil-doer_n but_o if_o the_o magistrate_n do_v not_o his_o part_n yet_o let_v the_o pastor_n do_v what_o in_o he_o lie_v for_o albeit_o the_o scripture_n give_v small_a hope_n of_o the_o recovery_n of_o such_o vile_a monster_n because_o of_o the_o stupidity_n of_o their_o conscience_n that_o can_v be_v wrought_v upon_o by_o man_n yet_o see_v such_o evil_n have_v be_v find_v even_o in_o some_o elect_a as_o manasseh_n and_o some_o of_o the_o corinthian_n before_o their_o conversion_n 1_o cor._n 6._o 9_o 10_o 11._o and_o because_o experience_n have_v often_o find_v that_o some_o of_o this_o sort_n go_v to_o public_a execution_n by_o the_o magistrate_n have_v be_v convert_v and_o save_v by_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n a_o pastor_n shall_v not_o altogether_o despair_v of_o such_o vile_a man_n but_o essay_n what_o may_v be_v do_v by_o conference_n especial_o when_o god_n send_v calamity_n on_o they_o or_o the_o magistrate_n execut_v justice_n on_o they_o for_o any_o crime_n if_o possible_o such_o miscreant_n be_v convince_v of_o their_o perverseness_n may_v repent_v and_o fly_v to_o christ_n the_o redeemer_n of_o such_o as_o fly_v unto_o he_o for_o remove_v the_o five_o impediment_n 1._o the_o five_o impediment_n of_o self-examination_n be_v a_o false_a fear_n of_o no_o small_a danger_n to_o their_o soul_n if_o they_o shall_v ripe_v up_o their_o conscience_n for_o bygones_a for_o see_v they_o feel_v themselves_o quiet_a they_o think_v it_o be_v unprofitable_a and_o dangerous_a to_o trouble_v their_o own_o peace_n such_o person_n will_v tell_v you_o that_o their_o faith_n be_v sure_o set_v on_o god_n and_o that_o they_o never_o have_v any_o doubt_n or_o suspicion_n of_o god_n love_n to_o they_o and_o therefore_o dare_v not_o trouble_v themselves_o with_o self-examination_n first_o because_o all_o sermon_n bid_v they_o firm_o trust_v in_o god_n second_o because_o they_o know_v if_o they_o shall_v trouble_v themselves_o with_o self-examination_n they_o may_v soon_o weaken_v their_o faith_n as_o they_o conceive_v three_o because_o they_o know_v the_o subtlety_n of_o satan_n as_o they_o say_v to_o who_o if_o a_o door_n be_v opâ—ned_v by_o search_n of_o their_o old_a way_n they_o fear_v he_o shall_v over-charge_n they_o with_o accusation_n and_o drive_v they_o to_o desperation_n as_o say_v they_o it_o have_v befall_v sundry_a who_o after_o waken_n their_o conscience_n never_o rest_v till_o they_o put_v hand_n in_o themselves_o not_o be_v able_a to_o bear_v the_o torment_n of_o their_o conscience_n there_o be_v other_o some_o who_o will_v they_o will_v they_o be_v draw_v before_o the_o tribunal_n of_o god_n judgement_n and_o their_o conscience_n begin_v to_o stir_v against_o they_o which_o so_o soon_o as_o they_o do_v perceive_v incontinent_a they_o interrupt_v the_o process_n such_o a_o one_o be_v the_o heathen_a governor_n felix_n act._n 24_o 25._o who_o after_o hear_v for_o a_o little_a paul_n discourse_n of_o righteousness_n temperance_n and_o judgement_n to_o come_v do_v tremble_v and_o therefore_o desire_v paul_n to_o forbear_v for_o the_o time_n of_o this_o sort_n also_o be_v they_o who_o do_v withdraw_v themselves_o from_o church-meeting_n and_o hear_v of_o public_a sermon_n lest_o they_o shall_v be_v trouble_v with_o the_o serious_a speech_n of_o a_o faithful_a pastor_n some_o be_v also_o of_o this_o sort_n who_o take_v the_o course_n that_o king_n saul_n do_v take_v and_o call_v for_o a_o minstrel_n or_o for_o merry_a company_n to_o suppress_v the_o voice_n of_o their_o bark_a conscience_n or_o do_v by_o some_o such_o way_n divert_v their_o conscience_n from_o enter_v in_o judgement_n with_o they_o 2._o the_o cause_n of_o this_o evil_n in_o the_o unregenerat_a man_n may_v be_v find_v these_o four_o beside_o other_o more_o particular_a first_o ignorance_n of_o the_o duty_n of_o self-examination_n prescribe_v of_o god_n ps._n 4._o 4._o or_o a_o voluntar_n mis-kenning_a that_o such_o a_o duty_n be_v require_v of_o all_o the_o second_o cause_n be_v a_o fix_a purpose_n to_o go_v on_o secure_o in_o their_o old_a way_n the_o three_o cause_n be_v the_o sense_n of_o the_o sweetness_n they_o imagine_v they_o do_v find_v and_o have_v find_v of_o a_o long_a time_n in_o the_o carnal_a rest_n and_o sleep_v of_o their_o conscience_n the_o four_o cause_n be_v a_o persuasion_n that_o they_o can_v not_o rid_v themselves_o out_o of_o the_o grip_n of_o their_o conscience_n nor_o endure_v the_o blind_a blow_n which_o conscience_n set_v down_o on_o the_o tribunal_n shall_v inflict_v on_o they_o which_o sorrow_n and_o vexation_n they_o conceive_v they_o can_v otherways_o eshew_v but_o by_o throw_v down_o their_o conscience_n from_o the_o bench_n that_o he_o enter_v in_o no_o process_n against_o they_o 3._o when_o the_o pastor_n have_v to_o do_v with_o such_o a_o man_n his_o first_o care_n must_v be_v that_o this_o blind_a fear_n may_v be_v draw_v forth_o to_o the_o light_n by_o show_v he_o that_o this_o his_o fly_v from_o the_o light_n and_o hide_v himself_o in_o darkness_n be_v to_o no_o purpose_n and_o that_o there_o be_v no_o place_n for_o he_o to_o fly_v unto_o and_o hide_v himself_o from_o god_n second_o let_v he_o press_v the_o decree_n of_o god_n that_o all_o man_n must_v once_o die_v and_o then_o come_v to_o judgement_n wherein_o he_o can_v miss_v perpetual_a condemnation_n and_o endless_a torment_n from_o a_o angry_a judge_n except_o he_o now_o judge_v and_o condemn_v himself_o and_o fly_v to_o christ_n the_o mediator_n while_o it_o be_v to_o day_n while_o christ_n be_v exercise_v his_o mediatory-office_n and_o be_v invite_v all_o sinner_n to_o repent_v and_o call_v all_o weary_a and_o heavy_a load_v to_o come_v unto_o he_o three_o let_v the_o pastor_n show_v to_o those_o fearful_a person_n that_o this_o their_o tear_n be_v groundless_a for_o if_o they_o mind_n to_o draw_v in_o to_o god_n they_o need_v not_o fear_v to_o confess_v all_o their_o sin_n and_o fly_v to_o his_o grace_n which_o if_o they_o do_v not_o the_o sleep_n which_o they_o love_v to_o lie_v into_o be_v deadly_a because_o god_n have_v say_v there_o be_v no_o peace_n to_o the_o wicked_a isa._n 48._o 21._o four_o let_v he_o press_v the_o precept_n for_o self-examination_n and_o judge_v ourselves_o ps._n 4._o 4._o and_o try_v whether_o we_o be_v in_o the_o faith_n or_o not_o
to_o yourselves_o lest_o at_o any_o time_n your_o heart_n be_v overcharge_v with_o surfeit_v and_o drunkenness_n and_o care_n of_o this_o life_n no_o wonder_n then_o that_o such_o man_n profit_v not_o by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n but_o remain_v fruitless_a because_o they_o be_v by_o our_o lord_n compare_v to_o the_o ground_n that_o receive_v the_o seed_n among_o thorn_n mat._n 13._o 22._o he_o hear_v the_o word_n but_o the_o care_n of_o this_o world_n and_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o riches_n choke_v the_o word_n and_o he_o remain_v unfruitful_a 6._o some_o there_o be_v who_o have_v receive_v a_o sufficient_a measure_n of_o gift_n whereby_o they_o may_v promove_v the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n and_o be_v profitable_a to_o the_o society_n they_o live_v in_o by_o make_v use_n of_o their_o gift_n do_v pack_v up_o all_o their_o duty_n in_o a_o sequestration_n of_o themselves_o from_o all_o business_n conceive_v this_o way_n to_o be_v fit_a both_o for_o god_n service_n and_o their_o own_o salvation_n whereupon_o they_o betake_v themselves_o to_o a_o private_a life_n in_o some_o obscure_a corner_n choose_v rather_o to_o live_v as_o monk_n and_o eremite_n then_o to_o appear_v in_o public_a and_o make_v use_n of_o their_o gift_n with_o the_o hazard_n of_o toil_a themselves_o and_o toss_v of_o their_o estimation_n among_o beholder_n of_o they_o and_o this_o their_o resolution_n be_v back_v with_o a_o pretend_a purpose_n to_o spend_v their_o time_n in_o read_v and_o prayer_n without_o provoke_v any_o man_n to_o hatred_n or_o emulation_n against_o they_o thus_o they_o conceive_v they_o shall_v provide_v best_a for_o their_o own_o ease_n and_o safety_n and_o if_o withal_o they_o apprehend_v that_o they_o be_v not_o fit_v with_o gift_n which_o may_v be_v profitable_a to_o other_o and_o do_v think_v what_o they_o have_v bestow_v upon_o they_o by_o god_n to_o be_v scarce_o sufficient_a for_o the_o carry_v of_o themselves_o on_o in_o the_o course_n that_o tend_v to_o happiness_n than_o they_o conceive_v they_o be_v well_o excuse_v if_o they_o let_v all_o public_a work_n alone_o without_o put_v forth_o their_o finger_n to_o help_v what_o they_o see_v amiss_o we_o do_v not_o deny_v but_o sundry_a godly_a person_n in_o the_o heat_n of_o persecution_n have_v be_v force_v to_o luâ—k_v in_o a_o wilderness_n among_o wild_a beast_n during_o the_o time_n of_o the_o danger_n of_o who_o fellowship_n the_o world_n be_v not_o worthy_a neither_o do_v we_o deny_v that_o age_n and_o infirmity_n of_o body_n may_v make_v man_n unfit_a for_o all_o public_a employment_n but_o the_o fault_n we_o tax_v be_v of_o such_o man_n as_o be_v able_a in_o church_n or_o state_n to_o do_v service_n to_o god_n and_o the_o society_n they_o live_v in_o do_v for_o the_o love_n of_o their_o own_o ease_n hide_v their_o talon_n and_o not_o make_v use_n thereof_o for_o the_o benefit_n of_o other_o for_o if_o a_o narrow_a search_n be_v make_v of_o such_o man_n resolution_n the_o fear_n of_o outward_a trouble_n in_o the_o world_n a_o decline_a to_o fight_v the_o fight_n of_o faith_n impatience_n to_o be_v at_o any_o pain_n and_o a_o desire_n to_o keep_v the_o estimation_n of_o their_o part_n from_o the_o hazard_n of_o man_n censure_n and_o love_n of_o their_o own_o fleshly_a ease_n will_v be_v find_v the_o fountain_n of_o their_o resolution_n but_o here_o we_o deal_v with_o none_o but_o such_o as_o the_o apostle_n and_o christ_n do_v speak_v against_o to_o wit_n such_o as_o in_o some_o honest_a employment_n for_o the_o common_a utility_n refuse_v to_o be_v at_o pain_n and_o work_n and_o therefore_o be_v not_o worthy_a of_o their_o bread_n 2_o thess._n 3._o 10._o and_o let_v we_o hearken_v to_o christ_n judgement_n of_o such_o man_n who_o the_o world_n admire_v for_o most_o holy_a monk_n in_o the_o parable_n of_o the_o talent_n he_o take_v up_o the_o lazy_a lubbart_n of_o who_o we_o speak_v under_o the_o reckon_n of_o a_o knavish_a servant_n who_o because_o he_o have_v but_o one_o talon_n which_o amount_v to_o no_o small_a sum_n go_v away_o and_o hide_v it_o in_o the_o earth_n mat._n 25._o 26._o thou_o wicked_a and_o slothful_a servant_n say_v he_o etc._n etc._n and_o ver_fw-la 30._o cast_v the_o unprofitable_a servant_n into_o outer_a darkness_n there_o shall_v be_v weep_v and_o gnash_n of_o tooth_n the_o remedy_n be_v that_o man_n of_o part_n and_o ability_n do_v not_o yield_v unto_o their_o lazy_a humour_n nor_o to_o their_o discouragement_n which_o may_v foster_v their_o temptation_n to_o idleness_n but_o study_v rather_o to_o live_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o obligation_n to_o god_n and_o to_o improve_v all_o that_o they_o have_v receive_v from_o he_o for_o his_o honour_n and_o the_o welfare_n of_o his_o people_n and_o to_o this_o end_n it_o be_v fit_a they_o shall_v hearken_v to_o the_o counsel_n of_o judicious_a friend_n rather_o than_o lean_v to_o their_o own_o judgement_n over-swayed_n with_o temptation_n lest_o the_o lord_n decipher_v they_o and_o lead_v they_o forth_o with_o the_o worker_n of_o iniquity_n ps._n 125._o 5._o 7._o some_o be_v very_o like_a in_o all_o external_o to_o the_o true_a convert_n so_o far_o as_o can_v be_v observe_v by_o beholder_n for_o they_o profess_v the_o true_a religion_n with_o other_o they_o seem_v to_o have_v consecrat_fw-mi themselves_o unto_o christ_n they_o associate_v themselves_o unto_o and_o haunt_v the_o company_n of_o these_o who_o be_v in_o best_a esteem_n and_o join_v themselves_o always_o with_o the_o repute_a godly_a they_o seem_v ready_o prepare_v to_o bear_v christ_n cross_n and_o to_o go_v forth_o out_o of_o the_o city_n after_o he_o bear_v his_o reproach_n and_o to_o be_v waiter_n upon_o his_o second_o come_v yet_o inward_o they_o be_v never_o renew_v they_o be_v not_o trouble_v with_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o sinfullnesse_n they_o do_v not_o in_o earnest_n or_o serious_o seek_v after_o christ_n righteousness_n and_o remission_n of_o sin_n through_o he_o nor_o worship_n god_n in_o their_o spirit_n these_o be_v describe_v to_o we_o in_o the_o parable_n of_o the_o foolish_a and_o wise_a virgin_n matth._n 25._o the_o foolish_a be_v in_o company_n and_o outward_a fellowship_n of_o religion_n with_o the_o wise_a their_o outward_a conversation_n be_v without_o scandal_n as_o be_v the_o behaviour_n of_o the_o wise_a they_o have_v lamp_n of_o profession_n as_o the_o wise_a and_o be_v not_o suspect_v by_o themselves_o or_o other_o to_o be_v unsound_a they_o go_v forth_o in_o profession_n wait_v for_o the_o come_n of_o the_o lord_n as_o the_o wise_a do_v and_o last_o of_o all_o no_o other_o infirmity_n be_v find_v in_o they_o than_o such_o as_o the_o wise_a virgin_n be_v subject_a unto_o also_o they_o all_o fall_v asleep_o now_o and_o then_o nothing_o can_v be_v outward_o find_v to_o difference_n they_o from_o the_o wise_a virgin_n which_o external_a likeness_n as_o it_o deceive_v the_o beholder_n of_o these_o foolish_a virgin_n so_o also_o it_o deceive_v themselves_o neither_o shall_v this_o personal_a difference_n be_v open_o manifest_v till_o the_o judge_n the_o searcher_n of_o heart_n shall_v come_v and_o separat_fw-la the_o goat_n from_o the_o sheep_n and_o the_o hypocrite_n from_o the_o unfeigued_a believer_n the_o remedy_n be_v that_o every_o one_o who_o pretend_v unto_o holiness_n external_o search_v their_o own_o heart_n and_o inward_a sinfulness_n daily_o and_o fly_v to_o christ_n in_o earnest_n that_o their_o nakedness_n may_v be_v cover_v and_o their_o affection_n make_v spiritual_a seek_v after_o thing_n above_o and_o that_o by_o faith_n in_o christ_n they_o may_v be_v fill_v with_o the_o unction_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n for_o bring_v forth_o true_a fruit_n of_o faith_n 8._o unto_o the_o former_a we_o may_v join_v such_o as_o for_o their_o eminent_a gift_n above_o the_o common_a sort_n of_o pious_a people_n and_o their_o ability_n to_o conset_n discourse_n and_o dispute_v of_o matter_n of_o religion_n seem_v to_o themselves_o and_o to_o beholder_n also_o eminent_a saint_n especial_o if_o they_o appear_v sharp_a censurer_n of_o other_o and_o zealous_a against_o every_o least_o degree_n of_o sin_n in_o other_o but_o most_o of_o all_o if_o they_o for_o their_o enduement_n be_v fit_v and_o call_v to_o pray_v in_o public_a and_o preach_v the_o gospel_n to_o other_o and_o withal_o do_v live_v without_o scandal_n they_o doubt_v nothing_o but_o they_o be_v high_a in_o god_n estimation_n as_o they_o be_v set_v up_o in_o reputation_n among_o the_o godly_a in_o the_o visible_a church_n now_o that_o such_o gift_a man_n may_v deceive_v themselves_o and_o pass_v sentence_n in_o their_o own_o favour_n for_o their_o own_o absolution_n from_o any_o challenge_n which_o may_v condemn_v they_o our_o lord_n do_v forewarn_a we_o matth_n 7._o 21._o 22._o tell_v we_o that_o not_o only_o many_o private_a
to_o prove_v a_o man_n to_o be_v regenerate_v but_o he_o must_v be_v prove_v also_o a_o true_a believer_n in_o christ_n a_o man_n reconcile_v to_o god_n a_o man_n justify_v and_o a_o adopt_a child_n 2._o it_o be_v necessary_a therefore_o for_o prove_v a_o man_n to_o be_v regenerate_v to_o know_v the_o right_a description_n of_o the_o regenerate_a man_n which_o be_v give_v by_o the_o apostle_n phil._n 3._o 3_o we_o be_v the_o circumcision_n which_o worship_n god_n in_o the_o spirit_n and_o rejoice_v in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o have_v no_o confidence_n in_o the_o flesh_n wherein_o the_o apostle_n hold_v forth_o the_o true_o regenerate_v circumcise_v in_o heart_n 1._o he_o be_v not_o sinless_a but_o so_o sensible_a of_o his_o sinfulness_n as_o he_o have_v no_o confidence_n in_o himself_o nor_o any_o thing_n else_o in_o himself_o 2._o he_o be_v not_o free_a of_o accusation_n or_o tentation_n and_o doubt_n but_o he_o fly_v to_o christ_n for_o righteousness_n 3._o he_o be_v not_o a_o idle_a and_o unfruitful_a branch_n but_o a_o worshipper_n of_o god_n in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n 1._o he_o be_v burden_v with_o sin_n 2._o he_o come_v to_o christ_n for_o relief_n 3._o he_o put_v on_o christ_n yoke_n math._n 11._o 28_o 29._o if_o a_o man_n have_v these_o three_o property_n joint_o in_o he_o he_o be_v a_o regenerae_fw-la man_n and_o may_v defend_v his_o interest_n in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n and_o right_o to_o righteousness_n and_o eternal_a life_n through_o jesus_n christ._n 3._o divine_a operation_n and_o save_a grace_n which_o accompany_v salvation_n such_o as_o be_v faith_n repentance_n unto_o life_n hope_v christian_a love_n to_o god_n and_o man_n for_o god_n cause_n effectual_a vocation_n justification_n reconciliation_n adoption_n go_v together_o in_o time_n by_o god_n gift_n but_o one_o of_o they_o go_v before_o another_o in_o order_n of_o nature_n for_o effectual_a calling_n go_v before_o faith_n and_o faith_n go_v before_o hope_n and_o before_o charity_n or_o love_n again_o these_o grace_n which_o be_v give_v to_o the_o redeem_a child_n of_o god_n joint_o in_o respect_n of_o time_n do_v not_o show_v themselves_o in_o their_o evidence_n alike_o soon_o in_o time_n nor_o do_v they_o equal_o manifest_v themselves_o when_o they_o do_v appear_v in_o time_n and_o so_o the_o evidence_n of_o repentance_n may_v be_v discern_v in_o not_o a_o few_o convert_n before_o faith_n in_o christ_n do_v show_v itself_o in_o they_o clear_o so_o also_o love_n to_o god_n and_o his_o saint_n ofttimes_o may_v be_v discern_v in_o a_o regenerate_a man_n before_o he_o himself_o dare_v affirm_v any_o thing_n of_o his_o faith_n in_o christ._n 4._o albeit_o there_o be_v many_o regenerate_a person_n who_o for_o the_o present_a time_n can_v perceive_v in_o themselves_o any_o undoubted_a sign_n of_o their_o conversion_n yet_o it_o be_v certain_a also_o that_o there_o be_v many_o who_o to_o their_o own_o unspeakable_a comfort_n be_v assure_v of_o their_o regeneration_n and_o that_o they_o be_v translate_v from_o death_n to_o life_n and_o that_o they_o have_v receive_v the_o spirit_n of_o adoption_n and_o earnest_n of_o eternal_a life_n as_o be_v point_v out_o in_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o ephesian_n chap._n 1._o 14._o and_o this_o be_v certain_a also_o that_o all_o who_o be_v flee_v to_o christ_n for_o refuge_n shall_v by_o all_o mean_n labour_v to_o make_v their_o call_n and_o election_n clear_a and_o certain_a to_o themselves_o 2_o pet._n 1._o 10._o and_o to_o this_o purpose_n we_o be_v command_v to_o examine_v ourselves_o and_o try_v whether_o we_o be_v in_o the_o faith_n or_o not_o whether_o christ_n by_o his_o spirit_n be_v in_o we_o or_o not_o 2_o cor._n 13._o 5._o for_o otherwise_o except_o a_o convert_n know_v certain_o the_o blessedness_n of_o his_o own_o state_n and_o that_o he_o stand_v in_o grace_n and_o favour_n with_o god_n it_o be_v not_o possible_a for_o he_o to_o give_v hearty_a thanks_o to_o god_n for_o the_o change_n of_o his_o state_n from_o be_v a_o enemy_n to_o be_v make_v a_o reconcile_a subject_n and_o child_n of_o god_n it_o be_v not_o possible_a for_o he_o to_o rejoice_v in_o the_o lord_n or_o set_v cheerful_o himself_o to_o serve_v god_n or_o comfortable_o call_v on_o god_n as_o a_o father_n to_o he_o in_o christ_n wherefore_o all_o who_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o fear_n of_o deserve_a wrath_n be_v flee_v for_o refuge_n unto_o christ_n shall_v deal_v by_o prayer_n earnest_o with_o god_n that_o he_o will_v gracious_o grant_v unto_o they_o his_o spirit_n by_o who_o operation_n in_o they_o they_o may_v know_v the_o save_a grace_n which_o he_o have_v free_o bestow_v upon_o they_o of_o which_o gift_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n the_o apostle_n do_v speak_v 1_o cor._n 2._o 12._o 5._o the_o knowledge_n of_o a_o man_n own_o regeneration_n have_v many_o degree_n of_o clearness_n and_o assurance_n by_o reason_n of_o the_o variety_n of_o condition_n wherein_o a_o man_n true_o convert_v may_v be_v for_o many_o doubt_n may_v arise_v in_o the_o man_n regenerate_v which_o may_v darken_v his_o sight_n and_o hinder_v the_o assurance_n of_o save_a grace_n grant_v unto_o he_o whereof_o sundry_a cause_n may_v be_v find_v and_o in_o special_a these_o four_o among_o other_o 1._o in_o a_o man_n illuminat_fw-la and_o renew_v by_o the_o holy_a spirit_n there_o remain_v a_o great_a deal_n of_o ignorance_n much_o doubt_v mix_v with_o faith_n by_o reason_n of_o unskilfulnesse_n of_o the_o convert_n to_o examine_v and_o discern_v this_o bless_a change_n make_v in_o he_o where_o through_o that_o come_v to_o pass_v in_o many_o young_a convert_n which_o will_v be_v see_v in_o infant_n who_o have_v a_o soul_n indeed_o but_o do_v not_o know_v or_o perceive_v that_o they_o have_v a_o soul_n till_o they_o come_v to_o some_o year_n of_o discretion_n yea_o many_o sound_a christian_n be_v ofttimes_o at_o a_o stand_n about_o their_o regeneration_n and_o know_v not_o what_o to_o make_v of_o their_o faith_n or_o repentance_n especial_o when_o they_o feel_v the_o power_n of_o the_o body_n of_o death_n the_o strength_n of_o natural_a corruption_n in_o themselves_o and_o great_a indisposition_n for_o any_o spiritual_a exercise_n they_o be_v force_v with_o the_o apostle_n to_o cry_v miserable_a man_n that_o i_o be_o who_o shall_v deliver_v i_o rom._n 7._o 24._o mean_a time_n for_o weakness_n of_o their_o faith_n they_o be_v not_o able_a at_o the_o first_o to_o wrestle_v against_o discouragement_n and_o to_o come_v up_o unto_o the_o apostle_n thank_v god_n through_o christ._n 2._o by_o the_o tentation_n of_o satan_n ofttimes_o the_o persuasion_n of_o holy_a man_n be_v darken_v so_o as_o they_o can_v see_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o own_o regeneration_n clear_o for_o satan_n set_v himself_o to_o vex_v the_o saint_n who_o be_v deliver_v from_o his_o kingdom_n and_o bond_n who_o albeit_o he_o know_v that_o he_o can_v destroy_v they_o yet_o he_o will_v not_o cease_v to_o trouble_v they_o that_o at_o least_o he_o may_v make_v they_o some_o way_n unfit_a for_o god_n service_n and_o mar_v their_o cheerfulness_n in_o his_o service_n and_o because_o he_o fear_v harm_n from_o they_o unto_o his_o kingdom_n by_o their_o deal_n with_o the_o unconvert_v to_o repent_v their_o sin_n and_o to_o turn_v unto_o god_n therefore_o he_o find_v they_o work_v at_o home_n in_o their_o own_o bosom_n and_o put_v they_o to_o defend_v themselves_o and_o to_o forbear_v to_o invade_v his_o subject_n till_o they_o be_v settle_v themselves_o 3._o ofttime_n the_o lord_n be_v offend_v by_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o regenerate_a and_o special_o by_o their_o gross_a transgression_n for_o which_o his_o spirit_n be_v grieve_v do_v for_o a_o time_n cease_v from_o comfort_v they_o and_o do_v not_o bear_v witness_n with_o their_o spirit_n that_o they_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n as_o he_o have_v former_o use_v to_o do_v 4._o ofttime_n the_o lord_n by_o suffer_a doubt_n to_o arise_v in_o their_o heart_n use_v to_o try_v and_o exercise_v the_o faith_n of_o his_o child_n and_o thereby_o to_o stir_v they_o up_o to_o the_o pursue_v of_o the_o duty_n of_o piety_n and_o righteousness_n more_o vigorous_o and_o sincere_o that_o after_o victory_n obtain_v over_o these_o tentation_n they_o may_v be_v more_o confirm_v in_o their_o faith_n and_o more_o diligent_a in_o his_o obedience_n 6._o it_o may_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o while_o the_o true_a convert_n do_v most_o doubt_n of_o his_o own_o regeneration_n that_o the_o work_n of_o god_n special_a grace_n may_v be_v observe_v in_o he_o and_o clear_o see_v by_o other_o more_o experience_v in_o the_o way_n of_o god_n and_o endue_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o discretion_n the_o reason_n whereof_o be_v because_o howsoever_o the_o weak_a convert_n and_o child_n of_o light_n walk_v
in_o darkness_n of_o tentation_n and_o desertion_n can_v discern_v his_o own_o bless_a state_n yet_o there_o may_v appear_v and_o be_v perceive_v in_o he_o such_o sign_n and_o undoubted_a evidence_n of_o save_a grace_n that_o the_o prudent_a beholder_n of_o he_o under_o his_o sad_a exercise_n may_v in_o the_o judgement_n of_o discretion_n and_o charity_n declare_v his_o righteousness_n and_o he_o for_o his_o state_n to_o be_v in_o grace_n and_o favour_n with_o god_n in_o these_o two_o disciple_n go_v to_o emaus_n luk._n 24._o save_a faith_n be_v not_o extinguish_v albeit_o they_o be_v drive_v to_o suspect_v themselves_o to_o have_v be_v mistake_v when_o they_o once_o believe_v that_o christ_n be_v the_o promise_a saviour_n for_o in_o that_o same_o time_n there_o appear_v in_o they_o evident_a token_n of_o their_o unfeigned_a love_n to_o christ_n for_o while_o they_o be_v trouble_v with_o suspicion_n of_o their_o be_v mistake_v about_o christ_n they_o be_v very_o sad_a and_o sorrowful_a and_o be_v regrate_v the_o suffering_n of_o christ_n and_o be_v gather_v what_o argument_n they_o can_v for_o support_v their_o faith_n whereby_o their_o die_a faith_n may_v be_v support_v by_o conference_n about_o this_o mater_fw-la lay_v forth_o their_o doubt_n and_o tentation_n one_o to_o another_o 7._o the_o precise_a time_n of_o begin_v regeneration_n be_v not_o always_o observe_v nor_o know_v either_o by_o the_o regenerate_a man_n himself_o or_o by_o beholder_n of_o his_o way_n as_o experience_n makteh_o evident_a in_o many_o who_o from_o their_o infancy_n be_v bring_v up_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o true_a religion_n in_o who_o conversion_n no_o notable_a change_n can_v be_v observe_v in_o those_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n in_o part_n be_v verify_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n come_v not_o with_o observation_n such_o person_n when_o they_o begin_v to_o examine_v themselves_o whether_o they_o be_v regenerate_v whether_o they_o be_v in_o christ_n and_o at_o what_o time_n they_o be_v convert_v they_o can_v neither_o determinate_o condescend_v upon_o the_o time_n of_o their_o conversion_n nor_o can_v they_o confident_o speak_v of_o their_o conversion_n till_o after_o sundry_a trial_n and_o experience_n they_o can_v gather_v proof_n of_o their_o sincerity_n from_o such_o sign_n effect_n and_o mark_n of_o the_o work_n of_o save_a grace_n in_o they_o as_o may_v prove_v that_o christ_n have_v dwell_v in_o they_o of_o before_o 8._o albeit_o regeneration_n be_v of_o the_o same_o kind_n spece_fw-la and_o definition_n in_o all_o the_o regenerate_v yet_o it_o do_v admit_v sundry_a accidental_a difference_n when_o the_o conversion_n of_o such_o and_o such_o person_n be_v compare_v for_o some_o do_v not_o stay_v long_o in_o the_o strait_n of_o regeneration_n or_o new_a birth_n but_o within_o a_o short_a space_n of_o time_n they_o be_v both_o wound_v and_o heal_v be_v both_o casten_z down_o and_o raise_v up_o again_o be_v both_o slay_v by_o the_o law_n and_o quicken_v by_o the_o gospel_n of_o this_o sort_n we_o have_v a_o past_a proof_n in_o some_o thousand_o convert_n act_n 2._o who_o by_o one_o sermon_n or_o two_o be_v convert_v to_o the_o faith_n of_o christ_n and_o fellowship_n with_o the_o church_n on_o the_o other_o hand_n experience_n of_o many_o do_v show_v they_o have_v be_v under_o the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n a_o long_a time_n before_o they_o can_v receive_v the_o consolation_n of_o the_o gospel_n heb._n 2._o 15._o some_o in_o the_o begin_n of_o their_o conversion_n be_v handle_v very_o tender_o and_o afterward_o fall_v in_o hard_a exercise_n of_o mind_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o david_n who_o in_o his_o youth_n while_o he_o be_v keep_v his_o father_n sheep_n do_v pass_v the_o time_n in_o holy_a song_n and_o play_v on_o his_o harp_n but_o afterward_o he_o be_v more_o sharp_o exercise_v and_o much_o afflict_v from_o time_n to_o time_n with_o the_o sense_n of_o divine_a wrath_n some_o in_o sorrow_n and_o much_o weep_a do_v follow_v christ_n and_o study_v to_o promove_v his_o kingdom_n such_o a_o one_o be_v timothy_n who_o the_o apostle_n exhort_v to_o admit_v a_o large_a measure_n of_o consolation_n allow_v unto_o he_o by_o the_o lord_n that_o he_o may_v be_v the_o more_o cheerful_a and_o courageous_a in_o the_o warfare_n whereunto_o he_o be_v call_v 2_o tim._n 1._o 4._o another_o of_o this_o sort_n be_v heman_n the_o ezrahit_fw-la who_o psal._n 88_o declare_v that_o from_o his_o youth_n up_o he_o be_v so_o keep_v under_o terror_n as_o he_o be_v ready_a to_o die_v under_o discouragement_n and_o in_o the_o experience_n of_o this_o holy_a man_n we_o have_v a_o proof_n of_o what_o be_v hold_v forth_o in_o the_o precede_a consideration_n to_o wit_n that_o regeneration_n may_v be_v begin_v in_o a_o man_n and_o well_o promove_v before_o either_o himself_o or_o other_o can_v well_o discern_v it_o for_o of_o they_o who_o be_v keep_v under_o the_o law_n and_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n it_o be_v hard_o determinate_o to_o judge_v before_o faith_n in_o christ_n begin_v to_o appear_v in_o they_o whether_o their_o exercise_n be_v the_o special_a work_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o regeneration_n or_o not_o for_o as_o it_o may_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o fear_n and_o bondage_n may_v for_o a_o time_n work_n and_o go_v no_o further_o then_o to_o convict_v a_o man_n and_o not_o go_v on_o to_o convert_v he_o so_o also_o it_o may_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o there_o be_v some_o wrestle_n of_o faith_n lie_v underfoot_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o terror_n not_o perceive_v for_o a_o while_n of_o which_o wrestle_v none_o can_v well_o give_v out_o sentence_n that_o it_o be_v a_o wrestle_n of_o save_a faith_n before_o faith_n get_v some_o victory_n over_o tentation_n and_o break_v forth_o in_o some_o evident_a effect_n in_o which_o case_n it_o be_v very_o needful_a wary_o and_o circumspect_o to_o apply_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n so_o as_o the_o afflict_a soul_n may_v be_v support_v with_o hope_n of_o a_o gracious_a out-gate_n for_o the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n humble_v the_o sinner_n be_v a_o fair_a call_n to_o come_v to_o christ_n and_o a_o messenger_n send_v by_o christ_n to_o bring_v he_o up_o gal._n 3._o 24._o 9_o albeit_o the_o regenerate_a man_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o state_n of_o his_o person_n by_o stand_v in_o grace_n and_o favour_n with_o god_n fix_v and_o unmovable_a as_o the_o apostle_n do_v show_v we_o rom._n 5._o 1_o 2_o 3._o partly_o because_o the_o love_n of_o god_n manifest_v to_o the_o believer_n in_o christ_n be_v unchangeable_a and_o partly_o because_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n through_o christ_n be_v a_o everlasting_a covenant_n isa._n 55._o 3._o and_o partly_o because_o the_o save_a gift_n and_o call_n of_o god_n be_v such_o as_o god_n will_v never_o repent_v he_o to_o have_v bestow_v they_o rom._n 11._o 29._o yet_o in_o respect_n of_o his_o condition_n the_o regenerate_a man_n be_v subject_a to_o many_o change_n in_o his_o life_n and_o conversation_n in_o the_o disposition_n of_o his_o mind_n and_o affection_n and_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o his_o gracious_a habit_n and_o in_o the_o sense_n and_o observation_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o he_o and_o favour_n of_o god_n towards_o he_o for_o it_o may_v come_v to_o pass_v yea_o and_o ofttimes_o do_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o man_n who_o be_v regenerate_v and_o in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n which_o be_v a_o notable_a good_a state_n may_v be_v in_o a_o very_a evil_a condition_n in_o a_o miserable_a and_o deplorable_a disposition_n of_o heart_n as_o befall_v the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n sardis_n and_o laodicea_n and_o it_o may_v be_v also_o that_o regenerate_v person_n after_o their_o conscience_n be_v waken_v and_o they_o do_v perceive_v the_o miserable_a and_o sinful_a condition_n of_o their_o affection_n and_o conversation_n that_o no_o small_a doubt_n arise_v in_o their_o heart_n whether_o their_o state_n in_o grace_n be_v real_a or_o not_o which_o doubt_n will_v evanish_v when_o after_o the_o renew_n of_o their_o repentance_n theâ—r_v condition_n be_v change_v to_o the_o better_a for_o christ_n pre-occupieth_a this_o tentation_n speak_v to_o the_o church_n of_o sardis_n and_o laodicea_n counsel_v they_o to_o strengthen_v the_o thing_n that_o remain_v which_o be_v ready_a to_o die_v and_o not_o to_o doubt_v of_o his_o love_n towards_o they_o revel_v 2._o and_o 3._o 10._o these_o tentation_n whereby_o the_o regenerate_a man_n be_v trouble_v and_o tempt_v to_o doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n shall_v be_v distinguish_v and_o discern_v from_o actual_a doubt_n for_o there_o may_v be_v a_o temptation_n unto_o doubt_v without_o a_o yield_n unto_o the_o temptation_n as_o we_o see_v in_o christ_n our_o lord_n who_o the_o devil_n dare_v tempt_v to_o doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v
and_o bring_v the_o believer_n flee_v unto_o he_o on_o upon_o his_o way_n till_o he_o put_v he_o in_o full_a possession_n of_o freedom_n from_o all_o sin_n and_o misery_n but_o yet_o this_o felicity_n be_v bring_v about_o not_o all_o at_o once_o but_o piece_n and_o piece_n and_o not_o without_o conflict_n with_o the_o enemy_n of_o our_o salvation_n and_o not_o without_o use_n of_o the_o mean_v appoint_v of_o god_n wherefore_o let_v the_o afflict_a be_v exhort_v to_o take_v courage_n unto_o he_o as_o become_v a_o soldier_n of_o christ_n and_o let_v he_o go_v on_o in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o hope_n and_o patience_n be_v assure_v that_o whatsoever_o god_n have_v promise_v he_o will_v sure_o perform_v in_o that_o manner_n measure_n order_n and_o time_n and_o by_o his_o own_o appoint_a mean_n as_o he_o have_v set_v down_o in_o his_o holy_a scripture_n 6._o the_o three_o practical_a error_n of_o the_o afflict_a in_o the_o foresay_a case_n be_v that_o he_o do_v not_o judge_v right_o of_o his_o own_o faith_n nor_o of_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o for_o of_o his_o own_o faith_n he_o judge_v no_o otherways_o than_o of_o the_o faith_n of_o another_o man_n whileas_o there_o be_v a_o diverse_a way_n to_o judge_v of_o my_o own_o faith_n then_o of_o another_o man_n faith_n for_o because_o i_o can_v reach_v to_o the_o internal_a act_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o another_o man_n therefore_o i_o must_v judge_v only_o by_o the_o outward_a effect_n according_a to_o the_o rule_n that_o james_n give_v chap._n 2._o ver_fw-la 10._o show_v i_o thy_o faith_n without_o thy_o work_n and_o i_o will_v show_v thou_o my_o faith_n by_o my_o work_n yet_o of_o my_o own_o faith_n i_o may_v judge_v not_o only_o by_o the_o external_a effect_n of_o it_o which_o in_o the_o first_o close_v with_o christ_n be_v not_o yet_o observable_a possible_o but_o also_o by_o the_o internal_a act_n of_o faith_n which_o the_o holy_a spirit_n who_o know_v the_o heart_n do_v reveal_v unto_o i_o by_o make_v i_o not_o only_o hearty_o to_o embrace_v christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n and_o love_v he_o but_o also_o can_v make_v i_o reflect_v and_o turn_v back_o my_o eye_n upon_o his_o own_o gift_n and_o grace_n in_o i_o according_a to_o that_o of_o the_o apostle_n 1_o cor._n 2._o 12._o we_o have_v receive_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n that_o we_o may_v know_v the_o thing_n free_o give_v to_o we_o of_o god_n again_o the_o afflict_a do_v not_o judge_v right_o of_o his_o own_o fruit_n of_o faith_n according_a as_o the_o truth_n be_v and_o as_o the_o lord_n in_o his_o word_n do_v judge_n he_o shall_v distinguish_v between_o the_o sincerity_n of_o the_o work_n and_o the_o perfection_n of_o it_o a_o work_n may_v be_v do_v upright_o and_o yet_o be_v imperfect_a he_o shall_v distinguish_v what_o be_v god_n part_n in_o the_o work_n from_o that_o which_o be_v wrong_a and_o corrupt_a flow_v from_o the_o remainder_n of_o sin_n in_o he_o these_o thing_n he_o do_v confound_v and_o do_v so_o fix_v his_o eye_n upon_o the_o defect_n and_o imperfection_n of_o his_o work_n that_o he_o see_v nothing_o but_o what_o be_v wrong_a when_o it_o be_v his_o duty_n both_o to_o observe_v what_o be_v wrong_a that_o he_o may_v be_v humble_v and_o cast_v away_o all_o confidence_n in_o his_o work_n and_o to_o observe_v also_o what_o be_v good_a and_o right_n in_o his_o work_n proceed_v from_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o he_o and_o so_o praise_n and_o thank_v god_n for_o it_o in_o christ_n who_o will_v not_o quench_v the_o smoke_a flax_n isa._n 42._o 3._o 7._o for_o remedy_v therefore_o of_o this_o error_n let_v the_o afflict_a first_o look_v upon_o the_o act_n of_o his_o faith_n both_o internal_a and_o external_a both_o on_o the_o elicit_a act_n of_o faith_n and_o the_o imperat_fw-la act_n as_o they_o be_v call_v in_o the_o school_n and_o let_v he_o judge_v of_o both_o according_a to_o what_o be_v right_a and_o equitable_a that_o whatsoever_o be_v the_o measure_n of_o new_a obedience_n it_o may_v be_v difference_v from_o the_o mixture_n of_o infirmity_n defect_n or_o corruption_n and_o let_v he_o not_o judge_v of_o his_o work_n according_a to_o the_o suggestion_n and_o calumny_n of_o satan_n who_o always_o condemn_v so_o far_o as_o he_o can_v what_o be_v good_a in_o god_n child_n or_o if_o he_o can_v condemn_v it_o do_v labour_n to_o have_v it_o abuse_v second_o let_v the_o afflict_a observe_v the_o due_a order_n both_o in_o do_v his_o duty_n and_o in_o judge_v thereof_o for_o of_o necessity_n he_o must_v first_o put_v forth_o a_o act_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n on_o christ_n before_o he_o can_v pass_v judgement_n on_o it_o and_o let_v he_o first_o do_v the_o work_v command_v to_o the_o believer_n and_o then_o pass_v sentence_n that_o he_o may_v be_v strengthen_v to_o do_v more_o duty_n and_o so_o to_o present_v they_o to_o god_n to_o be_v washen_n accept_v and_o amend_v in_o his_o follow_a service_n three_o let_v he_o careful_o look_v unto_o the_o end_n which_o he_o shall_v propose_v to_o himself_o in_o judge_v of_o his_o act_n of_o faith_n and_o obedience_n for_o the_o end_n of_o judge_v ourselves_o and_o our_o work_n shall_v be_v to_o confirm_v our_o faith_n in_o christ_n when_o we_o find_v any_o thing_n do_v according_a to_o the_o rule_n and_o to_o â—lye_v to_o christ_n for_o pardon_n and_o grace_n if_o we_o conceive_v all_o be_v wrong_a after_o we_o have_v examine_v matter_n 6._o the_o four_o practical_a error_n be_v that_o the_o afflict_v first_o suffer_v his_o faith_n to_o be_v wound_v and_o weaken_v by_o satan_n tentation_n and_o then_o to_o be_v draw_v forth_o to_o the_o field_n to_o give_v a_o proof_n of_o the_o strength_n of_o his_o faith_n in_o some_o difficile_a duty_n before_o the_o wound_n of_o faith_n be_v bind_v up_o or_o heal_v for_o it_o be_v a_o great_a disadvantage_n to_o enter_v the_o list_n with_o satan_n about_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n whether_o they_o be_v sincere_a or_o not_o when_o faith_n be_v wound_v yea_o faint_v and_o be_v bring_v in_o question_n whether_o it_o be_v true_a faith_n or_o not_o now_o this_o be_v a_o special_a stratagem_n and_o wile_n of_o satan_n by_o whatsoever_o mean_v he_o can_v to_o hurt_v the_o faith_n of_o god_n child_n that_o he_o may_v by_o that_o mar_v communion-keeping_a with_o god_n and_o cut_v off_o if_o he_o can_v the_o conduit_n whereby_o the_o power_n of_o christ_n be_v convey_v to_o the_o believer_n for_o make_v he_o give_v acceptable_a obedience_n unto_o god_n and_o certain_o it_o be_v no_o less_o difficile_a when_o faith_n be_v wrest_v and_o for_o a_o time_n out_o of_o joint_n to_o set_v about_o acceptable_a service_n than_o it_o be_v to_o make_v a_o man_n to_o set_v upon_o his_o work_n when_o his_o arm_n be_v out_o of_o joint_n therefore_o for_o remedy_n of_o this_o error_n let_v the_o afflict_a so_o soon_o as_o he_o find_v his_o â—aith_n wound_v incontinent_a set_v himself_o down_o before_o god_n humble_o and_o acknowledge_v his_o foolishness_n want_v of_o watch_v unworthiness_n and_o inability_n either_o to_o know_v how_o he_o have_v grieve_v god_n spirit_n and_o make_v open_v a_o door_n for_o the_o tempter_n to_o fall_v in_o upon_o he_o or_o to_o repent_v the_o sin_n which_o he_o know_v may_v have_v provoke_v god_n so_o to_o exercise_v he_o and_o next_o let_v he_o look_v unto_o god_n in_o christ_n reconcil_n the_o world_n to_o himself_o and_o lie_v hold_v on_o the_o horn_n of_o the_o altar_n on_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n for_o strengthen_v his_o faith_n that_o he_o may_v find_v help_n for_o the_o present_a need_n and_o thereafter_o also_o to_o walk_v more_o wise_o for_o this_o be_v the_o counsel_n which_o christ_n do_v give_v to_o the_o corrupt_a church_n of_o sardis_n revel_v 3._o 2._o strengthen_v the_o thing_n which_o remain_v and_o be_v ready_a to_o die_v thus_o may_v the_o afflict_a recover_v strength_n of_o faith_n and_o ability_n to_o resist_v satan_n and_o furniture_n for_o bring_v forth_o unquestionable_a fruit_n of_o faith_n chap._n viii_o wherein_o the_o regenerate_a man_n doubt_n whether_o he_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n arise_v from_o his_o unquietness_n of_o spirit_n be_v answer_v this_o case_n be_v incident_a to_o many_o dear_a child_n of_o god_n and_o may_v befall_v champion_n in_o time_n of_o sad_a affliction_n as_o we_o see_v in_o the_o prophet_n ps._n 42._o 11._o and_o 43._o 5._o why_o be_v thou_o cast_v down_o o_o my_o soul_n and_o why_o be_v thou_o disquiet_v within_o i_o but_o even_o in_o time_n of_o outward_a prosperity_n or_o when_o no_o great_a affliction_n bodily_a lie_v on_o many_o who_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o sinfulness_n have_v flee_v to_o jesus_n christ_n and_o have_v take_v
resist_v and_o stand_v out_o nor_o be_v their_o appearance_n or_o hope_n of_o god_n assist_v he_o in_o his_o conflict_n because_o god_n seem_v to_o have_v not_o only_o desert_v he_o but_o also_o to_o have_v give_v he_o over_o in_o the_o hand_n of_o a_o unclean_a spirit_n to_o be_v vex_v unto_o this_o tentation_n we_o answer_v first_o that_o the_o dear_a of_o god_n child_n have_v be_v exercise_v after_o this_o manner_n for_o even_o to_o the_o apostle_n paul_n 2_o cor._n 12._o 7._o there_o be_v give_v to_o he_o a_o thorn_n in_o the_o flesh_n the_o messenger_n of_o satan_n to_o buffet_v he_o to_o keep_v he_o from_o pride_n which_o tentation_n be_v so_o strong_a and_o violent_a that_o he_o can_v not_o resist_v it_o by_o any_o strength_n in_o himself_o but_o be_v force_v to_o fly_v unto_o god_n by_o prayer_n and_o beg_v strength_n from_o christ_n to_o bear_v he_o out_o against_o the_o tentation_n and_o to_o be_v deliver_v from_o the_o power_n of_o it_o second_o let_v the_o afflict_a under_o this_o exercise_n put_v a_o difference_n between_o the_o sin_n of_o satan_n the_o tempter_n of_o he_o and_o his_o own_o sin_n under_o the_o tentation_n for_o the_o fiery_a dart_n of_o satan_n and_o suggest_v blasphemy_n be_v satan_n sin_n and_o not_o proper_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o afflict_a to_o who_o these_o wicked_a tentation_n be_v not_o pleasant_a but_o be_v his_o great_a affliction_n it_o be_v true_a indeed_o that_o tentation_n unto_o sin_n in_o some_o measure_n draw_v on_o some_o degree_n of_o pollution_n ofttimes_o in_o sinful_a man_n because_o it_o be_v not_o with_o we_o as_o it_o be_v with_o christ_n for_o when_o the_o prince_n of_o this_o world_n come_v to_o tempt_v he_o he_o have_v no_o stuff_n of_o his_o own_o in_o christ_n to_o work_v upon_o but_o when_o he_o come_v to_o sinner_n he_o find_v our_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o inclination_n to_o yield_v to_o his_o tentation_n as_o his_o own_o material_n to_o work_v upon_o ready_a to_o be_v kindle_v by_o his_o fiery_a dart_n and_o yet_o must_v we_o still_o distinguish_v the_o sin_n of_o satan_n suggest_v and_o tempt_v from_o the_o suffering_n of_o the_o poor_a afflict_a child_n of_o god_n who_o be_v vex_v with_o the_o tentation_n for_o if_o the_o afflict_a shall_v own_v the_o tentation_n as_o his_o own_o sin_n and_o confound_v satan_n part_n and_o his_o own_o part_n in_o that_o exercise_n he_o be_v in_o danger_n to_o be_v swallow_v up_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o sin_n which_o be_v not_o his_o own_o but_o satan_n three_o the_o afflict_a must_v put_v difference_n between_o sin_n and_o troublsome_a exercise_n for_o god_n be_v the_o author_n of_o trouble_n whereby_o he_o be_v about_o to_o try_v exercise_n and_o train_v the_o faith_n of_o his_o child_n to_o reach_v he_o patience_n and_o hope_v under_o his_o trouble_n but_o satan_n be_v the_o author_n of_o the_o sin_n whereunto_o he_o do_v tempt_v the_o afflict_a and_o shall_v be_v punish_v for_o it_o four_o let_v the_o afflict_a wise_o observe_v satan_n drift_n and_o wile_n to_o drive_v he_o unto_o sin_n one_o way_n or_o other_o by_o these_o his_o horrid_a and_o bitter_a tentation_n for_o though_o he_o prevail_v not_o with_o his_o grosser_n tentation_n to_o cause_v the_o afflict_a commit_v or_o consent_v unto_o that_o wickedness_n which_o he_o suggest_v by_o his_o fiery_a dart_n yet_o he_o in_o some_o measure_n prevail_v ofttimes_o by_o new_a tentation_n follow_v on_o the_o back_n of_o the_o other_o for_o when_o he_o have_v troubleed_n the_o soul_n of_o the_o afflict_a child_n of_o god_n with_o these_o terrible_a tentation_n than_o he_o bear_v in_o upon_o the_o mind_n of_o the_o afflict_a that_o he_o have_v act_v or_o consent_v to_o these_o vile_a blasphemy_n and_o solicit_v he_o to_o impatience_n under_o this_o trouble_n and_o to_o doubt_v of_o god_n love_n to_o he_o and_o of_o his_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n and_o to_o suspect_v he_o be_v not_o one_o of_o the_o elect_a and_o to_o fear_v that_o god_n will_v not_o deliver_v he_o from_o these_o evil_n whereunto_o he_o be_v tempt_v now_o these_o latter_a tentation_n ofttimes_o prevail_v so_o far_o with_o the_o afflict_a as_o he_o hearken_v unto_o they_o yield_v unto_o they_o in_o some_o measure_n and_o suspect_v satan_n false_a alledgance_n to_o be_v too_o true_a and_o so_o these_o act_n of_o unbelief_n impatience_n and_o discouragement_n become_v indeed_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o afflict_a because_o they_o be_v not_o so_o resist_v disclaim_v abhor_a and_o sorrow_v for_o as_o the_o first_o sort_n of_o tentation_n be_v which_o do_v most_o vex_v the_o afflict_a these_o wile_n of_o satan_n the_o afflict_a must_v beware_v of_o lest_o he_o continue_v in_o or_o foster_v these_o ordinary_a sin_n whereinto_o that_o satan_n may_v cast_v and_o catch_v he_o he_o do_v lay_v his_o net_n in_o these_o extraordinary_a tentation_n five_o let_v the_o afflict_a after_o he_o have_v perceive_v satan_n wile_n and_o malice_n and_o his_o own_o foolishness_n and_o weakness_n look_v upon_o the_o lord_n wise_a purpose_n who_o by_o suffer_v his_o child_n so_o to_o be_v exercise_v be_v call_v he_o to_o a_o deep_a acknowledgement_n of_o his_o original_a sin_n that_o he_o may_v be_v humble_v yet_o more_o before_o god_n and_o loathe_v himself_o yet_o more_o and_o have_v christ_n righteousness_n impute_v to_o the_o believer_n in_o high_a estimation_n upon_o which_o consideration_n let_v he_o so_o press_v the_o remove_n of_o the_o troublesome_a tentation_n as_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n he_o submit_v himself_o unto_o god_n and_o patient_o endure_v the_o trouble_n and_o put_v repentance_n and_o faith_n hope_n and_o love_n to_o god_n in_o exercise_n follow_v his_o external_a vocation_n as_o he_o be_v able_a lest_o satan_n take_v advantage_n of_o he_o if_o he_o be_v idle_a and_o withal_o let_v he_o have_v such_o a_o care_n of_o his_o bodily_a health_n as_o he_o may_v be_v fit_v the_o better_a for_o god_n service_n in_o his_o call_n for_o we_o be_v not_o our_o own_o but_o christ_n who_o have_v buy_v we_o with_o a_o price_n and_o be_v bind_v to_o glorify_v god_n both_o in_o our_o body_n and_o spirit_n which_o be_v the_o lord_n 2_o cor._n 6._o 19_o 20._o and_o therefore_o whether_o we_o eat_v or_o drink_v or_o whatsoever_o else_o we_o be_v about_o which_o be_v lawful_a we_o ought_v to_o do_v it_o in_o his_o name_n and_o so_o to_o glorify_v he_o 1_o cor._n 10._o 30._o chap._n xii_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o convert_v doubt_n of_o his_o conversion_n arise_v from_o the_o power_n of_o his_o corruption_n manifest_v itself_o more_o after_o his_o entry_n upon_o the_o course_n of_o new_a obedience_n than_o it_o do_v before_o he_o begin_v to_o repent_v some_o convert_v be_v yet_o but_o young_a soldier_n in_o the_o christian_a warfare_n when_o they_o find_v the_o corruption_n of_o their_o nature_n break_v forth_o more_o powerful_o than_o it_o do_v before_o they_o do_v engage_v their_o heart_n to_o serve_v the_o lord_n do_v ready_o fall_v in_o deep_a discouragement_n and_o sad_a suspicion_n that_o the_o renew_v grace_n of_o god_n be_v never_o bestow_v upon_o they_o whatsoever_o be_v their_o purpose_n promise_n and_o beginning_n to_o mortify_v their_o lust_n and_o affection_n and_o we_o must_v confess_v that_o this_o be_v no_o small_a tentation_n for_o they_o who_o have_v renounce_v the_o service_n of_o their_o lust_n and_o have_v consecrat_fw-mi their_o life_n to_o god_n service_n when_o they_o find_v their_o lust_n prevail_v and_o like_a to_o reign_v in_o they_o no_o wonder_n they_o suspect_v their_o state_n in_o grace_n for_o 2_o pet._n chap._n 2._o ver_fw-la 20._o it_o be_v tell_v to_o we_o if_o man_n after_o they_o have_v escape_v the_o pollution_n of_o the_o world_n through_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o saviour_n jesus_n christ_n they_o be_v again_o entangle_v therein_o and_o overcome_v the_o latter_a endis_fw-la worse_n with_o they_o then_o the_o beginning_n for_o it_o have_v be_v better_a for_o they_o not_o to_o have_v know_v the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n then_o after_o they_o have_v know_v it_o to_o turn_v from_o the_o holy_a commandment_n deliver_v unto_o they_o but_o it_o be_v happen_v unto_o they_o according_a to_o the_o true_a proverb_n the_o dog_n be_v turn_v to_o his_o own_o vomit_n again_o and_o the_o sow_n that_o be_v wash_v to_o she_o wallow_v in_o the_o mire_n 2._o this_o condition_n indeed_o be_v perilous_a when_o after_o profession_n of_o repentance_n sin_n do_v recover_v its_o strength_n again_o and_o prevail_v over_o the_o whole_a man_n and_o show_v forth_o its_o victory_n over_o he_o in_o the_o gross_a pollution_n of_o the_o external_a man_n but_o most_o of_o all_o be_v it_o perilous_a when_o the_o overcome_v and_o enslave_v sinner_n lie_v still_o in_o his_o sin_n
thing_n to_o come_v and_o the_o gift_n of_o work_a miracle_n and_o the_o gift_n of_o preach_v the_o gospel_n may_v be_v grant_v unto_o the_o unregenerat_a for_o the_o use_n and_o edification_n of_o the_o church_n the_o observe_v of_o this_o difference_n shall_v teach_v the_o afflict_a to_o esteem_v well_o of_o all_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n which_o may_v serve_v for_o humane_a society_n or_o to_o edify_v the_o church_n but_o not_o to_o look_v upon_o they_o as_o evidence_n of_o regeneration_n for_o they_o be_v nothing_o in_o comparison_n of_o save_a grace_n for_o if_o he_o shall_v study_v to_o humility_n and_o repentance_n towards_o god_n and_o faith_n towards_o jesus_n christ_n and_o love_n to_o god_n and_o his_o saint_n and_o to_o a_o holy_a life_n by_o the_o grace_n of_o christ_n in_o any_o measure_n let_v he_o esteem_v more_o of_o they_o then_o of_o all_o these_o common_a gift_n how_o glorious_a soever_o they_o seem_v as_o also_o let_v he_o put_v a_o difference_n betwixt_o the_o judgement_n of_o charity_n concern_v other_o man_n estate_n which_o content_v itself_o with_o probability_n and_o the_o judgement_n of_o certainty_n and_o real_a verity_n concern_v his_o own_o estate_n which_o proceed_v from_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n bearing_z witness_n to_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n and_o reveal_v unto_o we_o what_o thing_n be_v free_o give_v to_o we_o of_o god_n to_o wit_n among_o other_o gift_n give_v unto_o we_o eyesalve_n to_o make_v we_o know_v that_o we_o be_v blind_a poor_a naked_a and_o miserable_a with_o grace_n lead_v we_o to_o buy_v without_o money_n or_o price_n from_o christ_n gold_n try_v in_o the_o fire_n and_o garment_n to_o hide_v our_o nakedness_n which_o be_v the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n impute_v unto_o we_o in_o the_o judgement_n of_o charity_n concern_v other_o man_n estate_n we_o see_v nothing_o save_o what_o be_v outward_a and_o can_v pierce_v into_o their_o heart_n which_o god_n only_o can_v and_o do_v search_v but_o concern_v our_o own_o estate_n we_o may_v know_v certain_o if_o we_o search_v well_o 1_o cor._n 2._o 10_o 11_o 12._o wherefore_o that_o the_o afflict_a may_v overcome_v this_o doubt_n let_v he_o leave_v unto_o god_n the_o judgement_n of_o the_o heart_n of_o these_o hypocrite_n and_o apostat_n which_o be_v never_o humble_v in_o 〈◊〉_d sense_n of_o sin_n nor_o serious_o believe_v in_o christ_n but_o to_o satisfy_v himself_o concern_v his_o own_o estate_n let_v he_o study_v to_o discern_v the_o power_n of_o sin_n in_o himself_o more_o and_o more_o and_o daily_o be_v humble_v before_o god_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o it_o and_o the_o more_o he_o discern_v the_o loathsomnesse_n of_o sin_n in_o himself_o let_v he_o the_o more_o hearty_o embrace_v christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n and_o consecrat_v himself_o whole_o unto_o he_o that_o in_o his_o furniture_n draw_v by_o faith_n out_o of_o christ_n he_o may_v bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n and_o add_v one_o virtue_n to_o another_o and_o so_o shall_v he_o be_v sure_a that_o he_o have_v pass_v the_o perfection_n of_o the_o unregenerat_a and_o be_v a_o true_a subject_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n effectual_o call_v and_o elect_v of_o god_n unto_o eternal_a life_n 2_o pet._n 1._o 5_o 6_o 7_o 8._o chap._n fourteen_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n whether_o he_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n because_o some_o godly_a person_n look_v upon_o he_o as_o a_o hypocrite_n some_o true_a convert_n do_v suspect_v themselves_o not_o to_o be_v true_a convert_n because_o some_o of_o the_o godly_a of_o their_o acquaintance_n who_o judgement_n otherways_o be_v not_o to_o be_v light_o reject_v not_o only_o do_v suspect_v they_o to_o be_v hypocrite_n but_o by_o word_n speak_v of_o they_o and_o behaviour_n towards_o they_o declare_v their_o judgement_n of_o they_o 2._o this_o tentation_n do_v not_o a_o little_a afflict_v the_o weak_a in_o faith_n who_o of_o themselves_o be_v ready_a to_o call_v in_o question_n their_o own_o conversion_n and_o when_o they_o perceive_v their_o own_o suspicion_n of_o themselves_o to_o be_v as_o it_o be_v confirm_v by_o the_o suspicion_n and_o testimony_n of_o some_o saint_n howsoever_o rash_o judge_v other_o man_n heart_n no_o wonder_n the_o tentation_n of_o satan_n question_v whether_o they_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n grow_v strong_a against_o they_o by_o this_o stratagem_n satan_n use_v to_o assault_v the_o strong_a in_o faith_n and_o to_o vex_v they_o at_o least_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o job_n who_o faith_n be_v mighty_o assault_v when_o his_o godly_a friend_n mistake_v his_o affliction_n and_o condemn_v he_o as_o a_o wicked_a hypocrite_n the_o like_a we_o see_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o prophet_n ps._n 38._o 11._o when_o his_o friend_n stand_v aloof_o from_o his_o plague_n 3._o for_o strengthen_v the_o afflict_a under_o this_o tentation_n first_o let_v he_o examine_v himself_o so_o much_o the_o more_o acurat_o because_o of_o the_o suspicion_n that_o the_o godly_a have_v of_o he_o after_o which_o examination_n if_o he_o find_v any_o measure_n of_o sorrow_n for_o sin_n in_o himself_o and_o of_o faith_n fly_v to_o christ_n for_o relief_n and_o of_o endeavour_n to_o live_v holy_o righteous_o and_o sober_o albeit_o join_v with_o much_o infirmity_n and_o manifold_a imperfection_n let_v he_o not_o cast_v away_o his_o confidence_n but_o rather_o strengthen_v what_o he_o find_v of_o the_o lord_n gracious_a work_n in_o he_o although_o it_o seem_v to_o he_o ready_a to_o die_v second_o let_v he_o consider_v whether_o this_o exercise_n and_o affliction_n be_v a_o correction_n from_o god_n chastise_v he_o for_o his_o rash_a judgement_n of_o other_o who_o possible_o he_o have_v wound_v with_o such_o rash_a suspicion_n of_o they_o but_o whether_o he_o find_v this_o or_o not_o let_v he_o not_o despise_v this_o exercise_n but_o be_v humble_v before_o god_n in_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o the_o relic_n of_o hypocrisy_n in_o our_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o fly_v unto_o christ_n in_o who_o mouth_n there_o be_v no_o guile_n that_o he_o may_v be_v clothe_v with_o his_o righteousness_n head_n and_o foot_n and_o let_v he_o study_v unto_o more_o and_o more_o sincerity_n that_o he_o may_v approve_v himself_o to_o god_n and_o to_o discreet_a judge_n of_o his_o conversation_n and_o let_v he_o not_o alienat_fw-la himself_n altogether_o so_o far_o as_o in_o he_o lie_v from_o they_o by_o who_o suspicion_n his_o faith_n and_o good_a name_n have_v be_v wound_v but_o in_o humility_n and_o charity_n towards_o they_o in_o the_o constant_a follow_v of_o piety_n towards_o god_n and_o righteousness_n towards_o man_n labour_v to_o commend_v himself_o to_o all_o man_n conscience_n and_o in_o so_o do_v he_o need_v not_o stand_v for_o the_o rash_a judgement_n of_o any_o man_n for_o by_o so_o do_v job_n be_v victorious_a over_o this_o tentation_n in_o his_o conflict_n with_o his_o friend_n and_o it_o be_v sure_a that_o man_n may_v be_v deceive_v in_o their_o judgement_n of_o other_o man_n estate_n for_o first_o the_o ignorance_n of_o another_o man_n heart_n make_v the_o judge_n to_o judge_v what_o he_o know_v not_o it_o be_v true_a god_n have_v grant_v unto_o his_o child_n liberty_n according_a to_o his_o word_n to_o judge_v of_o the_o action_n of_o other_o man_n and_o from_o their_o action_n to_o judge_v of_o their_o condition_n and_o temper_n in_o relation_n to_o those_o action_n but_o to_o judge_v of_o their_o state_n who_o outward_o do_v what_o be_v right_a do_v not_o belong_v to_o man_n but_o to_o god_n who_o have_v reserve_v to_o himself_o the_o search_n of_o every_o man_n heart_n and_o only_o know_v who_o be_v the_o upright_a and_o who_o be_v the_o hypocrite_n who_o be_v the_o wise_a and_o who_o be_v the_o foolish_a virgin_n the_o outward_a conversation_n of_o both_o be_v like_o one_o to_o another_o again_o to_o know_v another_o man_n manner_n engine_n inclination_n and_o way_n of_o his_o life_n do_v require_v long_o converse_v with_o he_o comparison_n of_o his_o action_n one_o with_o another_o and_o a_o prudent_a conjunction_n of_o all_o sign_n of_o his_o inward_a disposition_n before_o a_o discreet_a charitable_a judgement_n can_v be_v have_v of_o he_o and_o whosoever_o do_v judge_v rash_o of_o other_o man_n heart_n do_v not_o well_o know_v their_o own_o heart_n or_o of_o what_o spirit_n they_o be_v in_o judge_v for_o many_o presume_v too_o much_o to_o justify_v their_o own_o condition_n and_o state_n and_o make_v themselves_o to_o be_v as_o rule_n and_o pattern_n unto_o other_o and_o so_o become_v too_o too_o rigid_a censurer_n and_o severe_a judge_n of_o other_o man_n condition_n and_o state_n except_o they_o find_v it_o like_v to_o their_o own_o and_o if_o there_o be_v any_o
dissimilitude_n of_o manner_n or_o discrepance_n of_o judgement_n or_o contention_n about_o any_o mater_fw-la than_o partiality_n hinder_v a_o right_a judgement_n one_o of_o another_o and_o affection_n mar_v reason_n many_o time_n that_o it_o can_v discern_v what_o be_v right_a therefore_o let_v the_o person_n afflict_v with_o this_o tentation_n turn_v himself_o to_o god_n who_o search_v the_o reins_n and_o let_v he_o humble_v himself_o in_o his_o sight_n renew_v the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n and_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o let_v he_o apply_v to_o himself_o what_o the_o scripture_n do_v pronounce_v of_o these_o who_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o sin_n do_v fly_v to_o christ_n jesus_n that_o in_o he_o they_o may_v have_v remission_n of_o sin_n and_o amendment_n of_o their_o life_n for_o so_o do_v the_o prophet_n in_o the_o whole_a psal._n 17._o when_o he_o have_v to_o do_v with_o his_o uncharitable_a friend_n and_o kinsfolk_n and_o so_o let_v the_o afflict_a do_v chap._n xv._n wherein_o the_o convert_v doubt_v of_o his_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n so_o oft_o as_o he_o do_v not_o feel_v the_o sense_n of_o his_o reconciliation_n with_o god_n be_v examine_v and_o answer_v soâ—e_fw-la true_a convert_n be_v who_o indeed_o be_v endue_v with_o the_o save_a grace_n of_o faith_n hope_n and_o charity_n and_o give_v evident_a proof_n of_o the_o indwelling_a of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o they_o and_o do_v rejoice_v now_o and_o then_o in_o god_n their_o saviour_n when_o his_o love_n to_o they_o be_v shed_v abroad_o in_o their_o heart_n but_o when_o a_o cloud_n come_v over_o their_o eye_n and_o they_o do_v not_o feel_v the_o warm_a beam_n of_o the_o sun_n of_o righteousness_n shine_v in_o their_o soul_n as_o they_o before_o have_v feel_v they_o be_v assault_v with_o doubt_v if_o any_o save_a grace_n be_v in_o they_o at_o all_o and_o do_v entertain_v these_o tentation_n ofttimes_o so_o far_o as_o to_o suspect_v and_o express_v in_o word_n that_o there_o be_v no_o solid_a faith_n in_o themselves_o no_o lively_a hope_n no_o christian_n charity_n no_o mortification_n of_o sin_n no_o purity_n of_o heart_n and_o such_o like_a if_o when_o they_o be_v thus_o tempt_v and_o toss_v they_o lie_v hold_v on_o christ_n as_o in_o their_o first_o conversion_n and_o find_v the_o sensible_a comfort_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n by_o the_o word_n of_o the_o gospel_n apply_v unto_o they_o than_o all_o be_v well_o their_o doubt_v be_v overcome_v for_o the_o time_n they_o rejoice_v and_o praise_n god_n but_o if_o the_o lord_n shall_v delay_v for_o his_o own_o wise_a end_n to_o renew_v their_o sensible_a consolation_n and_o to_o renew_v the_o earnest-penny_n of_o their_o inheritance_n forthwith_o they_o begin_v to_o doubt_v again_o and_o to_o hearken_v to_o satan_n suggestion_n and_o to_o suspect_v that_o their_o former_a feeling_n be_v but_o temporary_a and_o not_o the_o special_a operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o at_o length_n break_v forth_o in_o many_o sad_a complaint_n and_o in_o a_o word_n they_o do_v not_o maintain_v the_o work_n of_o save_a grace_n in_o themselves_o long_a than_o the_o sun_n shine_v of_o spiritual_a feel_v consolation_n abide_v with_o they_o and_o albeit_o their_o exercise_n be_v no_o way_n so_o hard_a as_o be_v the_o prophet_n psal._n 77._o yet_o they_o fall_v out_o in_o the_o same_o complaint_n which_o the_o prophet_n express_v ver_fw-la 7_o 8_o 9_o will_v the_o lord_n cast_v off_o for_o ever_o and_o will_v he_o be_v favourable_a no_o more_o be_v his_o mercy_n clean_o go_v for_o ever_o do_v his_o promise_n fail_v for_o evermore_o have_v god_n forget_v to_o be_v gracious_a have_v he_o in_o anger_n shut_v up_o his_o tender_a mercy_n 2._o for_o clear_v of_o this_o case_n two_o disease_n may_v be_v perceive_v in_o the_o afflict_a which_o be_v here_o describe_v the_o one_o be_v this_o the_o afflict_a set_v himself_o to_o live_v rather_o by_o sense_n then_o by_o faith_n and_o do_v put_v his_o faith_n on_o work_n of_o set_a purpose_n that_o he_o may_v obtain_v or_o recover_v consolation_n short_o but_o if_o his_o desire_n be_v not_o short_o grant_v he_o make_v not_o use_v of_o the_o former_o feel_v consolation_n to_o strengthen_v his_o own_o â—aith_n when_o consolation_n be_v withdraw_v the_o other_o sickness_n be_v this_o the_o afflict_a do_v not_o take_v up_o the_o nature_n of_o save_a grace_n nor_o perceive_v the_o beauty_n thereof_o except_o in_o the_o sunshine_n of_o sensible_a divine_a approbation_n thereof_o he_o do_v not_o take_v up_o the_o right_a definition_n or_o description_n of_o save_a grace_n for_o sai_z be_v to_o he_o nothing_o if_o it_o be_v not_o a_o full_a persuasion_n except_o he_o can_v pour_v forth_o tear_n always_o he_o think_v he_o do_v not_o repent_v except_o he_o find_v a_o joyful_a expectation_n of_o christ_n come_v in_o glory_n he_o think_v his_o hope_n not_o lively_a and_o so_o of_o charity_n and_o patience_n temperance_n righteousness_n and_o holiness_n if_o he_o do_v not_o find_v they_o in_o some_o eminent_a measur_n as_o they_o may_v nearâ—by_o stand_v before_o the_o law_n the_o afflict_a of_o who_o we_o be_v now_o speak_v think_v he_o have_v nothing_o of_o save_v grace_n in_o he_o we_o grant_v that_o this_o sickness_n be_v very_o rare_a and_o few_o they_o be_v that_o be_v trouble_v with_o it_o yet_o where_o it_o appear_v it_o must_v be_v speedy_o cure_v but_o with_o great_a circumspection_n cure_v for_o the_o earnest_n desire_v he_o have_v of_o feel_v the_o sweet_a sense_n of_o the_o joy_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n must_v not_o be_v disallow_v but_o commend_v to_o he_o and_o he_o teach_v to_o cry_v as_o it_o be_v say_v cant._n 2._o 5._o stay_v i_o with_o flagon_n comfort_v i_o with_o apple_n for_o i_o be_o sick_a of_o love_n yet_o with_o holy_a submission_n unto_o god_n will_n for_o time_n manner_n and_o measure_n 2._o he_o be_v also_o to_o be_v commend_v that_o in_o his_o trouble_n he_o go_v to_o god_n in_o christ_n not_o altogether_o without_o faith_n which_o he_o put_v forth_o in_o active_a exercise_n thereof_o by_o confession_n of_o sin_n by_o supplication_n and_o otherways_o but_o here_o be_v he_o to_o be_v reprove_v that_o while_o he_o be_v actual_o exercise_v faith_n love_n hope_v etc._n etc._n he_o reckon_v all_o he_o do_v to_o be_v nothing_o no_o faith_n no_o hope_n etc._n etc._n because_o it_o be_v not_o in_o such_o a_o measure_n as_o he_o will_v 3._o he_o be_v to_o be_v commend_v that_o he_o do_v aim_n at_o the_o high_a degree_n of_o faith_n love_n hope_v patience_n mortification_n of_o sin_n and_o practice_n of_o holiness_n and_o all_o command_v virtue_n but_o here_o he_o fail_v that_o he_o count_v all_o as_o nought_o when_o consolation_n and_o sensible_a approbation_n of_o what_o he_o have_v be_v not_o feel_v for_o here_o he_o despise_v the_o day_n of_o small_a thing_n and_o unthankful_o misregardeth_a the_o low_a degree_n of_o these_o save_a grace_n which_o notwithstanding_o be_v buy_v to_o the_o redeem_v by_o the_o same_o price_n wherewith_o the_o high_a degree_n be_v buy_v to_o wit_n with_o the_o precious_a blood_n of_o jesus_n christ._n 3._o wherefore_o let_v the_o afflict_a consider_v first_o that_o the_o will_n of_o god_n reveal_v require_v of_o we_o that_o we_o walk_v by_o faith_n and_o under_o the_o sense_n of_o our_o sinfulness_n and_o affliction_n whatsoever_o hold_v fast_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n in_o christ_n jesus_n and_o by_o adhere_v unto_o he_o hold_v up_o our_o heart_n and_o entertain_v spiritual_a life_n in_o we_o second_o let_v he_o consider_v that_o this_o way_n of_o live_v by_o faith_n and_o dependence_n on_o the_o word_n of_o god_n grace_n do_v please_v the_o lord_n well_o for_o without_o faith_n it_o be_v impossible_a to_o please_v he_o and_o thus_o live_v by_o faith_n in_o he_o do_v give_v more_o glory_n of_o truth_n grace_n mercy_n and_o constancy_n unto_o god_n then_o when_o we_o suspend_v the_o glorify_v of_o he_o till_o we_o find_v the_o sense_n of_o consolation_n from_o he_o for_o if_o we_o believe_v in_o god_n only_o because_o we_o find_v the_o consolation_n of_o his_o spirit_n our_o faith_n in_o that_o case_n be_v weak_a and_o lean_v more_o upon_o the_o pledge_n and_o sensible_a evidence_n of_o his_o truth_n bestow_v upon_o we_o then_o upon_o his_o promise_n without_o a_o pledge_n for_o no_o man_n will_v refuse_v to_o give_v credit_n to_o a_o man_n upon_o a_o pawn_n but_o god_n be_v worthy_a to_o be_v credit_v upon_o his_o word_n without_o a_o pawn_n yea_o when_o his_o dispensation_n seem_v contrary_a to_o his_o promise_n three_o let_v he_o consider_v that_o the_o lord_n use_v to_o give_v sensible_a consolation_n not_o only_o to_o help_v our_o faith_n in_o the_o time_n of_o consolation_n but_o also_o to_o help_v our_o
faith_n when_o the_o consolation_n be_v withdraw_v from_o we_o and_o we_o be_v put_v to_o hard_a exercise_n wherein_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o glorify_v our_o god_n for_o his_o truth_n and_o grace_n whereof_o we_o have_v sometime_o have_v confirmation_n by_o feel_a consolation_n and_o patient_o to_o wait_v till_o he_o restore_v unto_o we_o the_o joy_n of_o his_o spirit_n for_o if_o in_o the_o want_n of_o sensible_a consolation_n we_o shall_v put_v aspersion_n upon_o the_o lord_n work_v and_o grace_n bestow_v upon_o we_o and_o call_v they_o in_o question_n we_o shall_v be_v find_v in_o so_o do_v more_o careful_a of_o self-satisfaction_n then_o to_o do_v the_o duty_n which_o god_n require_v of_o we_o four_o let_v the_o afflict_a learn_v so_o to_o describe_v and_o define_v every_o save_a grace_n of_o faith_n repentance_n hope_v love_n and_o mortification_n of_o sin_n as_o the_o description_n may_v take_v in_o the_o mean_a measure_n of_o those_o grace_n for_o it_o be_v hard_o to_o say_v that_o there_o be_v no_o sound_a faith_n where_o there_o be_v not_o a_o full_a persuasion_n for_o the_o hungry_a look_v of_o a_o tremble_a sinner_n unto_o christ_n must_v not_o be_v exclude_v from_o be_v a_o act_n of_o faith_n it_o be_v hard_o to_o restrain_v the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n to_o the_o shed_v of_o tear_n for_o many_o other_o sign_n of_o repentance_n may_v be_v find_v where_o these_o be_v seldom_o such_o as_o be_v the_o hatred_n of_o sin_n strive_v against_o all_o tentation_n unto_o it_o and_o fly_v from_o all_o occasion_n which_o may_v ensnare_v the_o believer_n in_o christ_n in_o trespass_n five_o let_v the_o afflict_a distinguish_v between_o faith_n and_o sense_n of_o joy_n both_o be_v god_n gift_n but_o the_o ground_n of_o faith_n whereupon_o we_o be_v command_v to_o rest_v ourselves_o shall_v be_v rest_v on_o constant_o whatsoever_o dispensation_n of_o joy_n or_o grief_n we_o shall_v meet_v with_o and_o this_o be_v our_o perpetual_a duty_n but_o sense_n be_v at_o god_n free_a dispensation_n to_o give_v and_o withdraw_v and_o restore_v at_o his_o pleasure_n and_o be_v a_o movable_a benefit_n which_o the_o lord_n as_o his_o wisdom_n see_v expedient_a for_o our_o good_a do_v give_v and_o continue_v withdraw_v and_o restore_v diminish_v or_o augment_v and_o therefore_o the_o afflict_a be_v bind_v by_o duty_n still_o to_o believe_v and_o rejoice_v in_o believe_v and_o to_o have_v the_o joy_n of_o sense_n also_o he_o may_v lawful_o study_v but_o ought_v not_o to_o suffer_v his_o faith_n to_o be_v weaken_v by_o the_o want_n of_o it_o as_o the_o prophet_n do_v teach_v we_o ps._n 42._o 11._o and_o 43._o 5._o and_o 88_o last_o of_o all_o let_v the_o afflict_a be_v pose_v upon_o his_o conscience_n if_o he_o dare_v condemn_v his_o fly_n to_o christ_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o sin_n as_o no_o act_n of_o faith_n or_o if_o he_o there_fw-mi deny_v his_o hunger_n after_o renew_a consolation_n and_o behold_v of_o god_n with_o joy_n as_o reconcile_v in_o christ_n to_o be_v a_o act_n of_o love_n to_o god_n and_o of_o communion_n with_o he_o therefore_o let_v he_o confess_v with_o the_o psalmist_n ps._n 77._o 10._o this_o my_o doubt_v be_v my_o infirmity_n i_o will_v remember_v the_o year_n of_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o lord_n chap._n xvi_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o true_a convert_n doubt_v of_o his_o regeneration_n because_o he_o seem_v to_o himself_o not_o to_o grow_v in_o grace_n by_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_v appoint_v for_o his_o growth_n some_o true_a convert_n be_v bring_v to_o suspect_v their_o own_o regeneration_n because_o in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n lead_v to_o sanctification_n and_o salvation_n sundry_a complain_n and_o say_v i_o do_v not_o perceive_v the_o lord_n blessing_n on_o my_o pain_n and_o diligence_n i_o grow_v not_o in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o thing_n spiritual_a my_o faith_n do_v not_o grow_v by_o hear_v nor_o read_v of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n nor_o by_o meditation_n of_o it_o i_o do_v not_o prevail_v in_o wrestle_v against_o my_o inbred_a sin_n and_o corrupt_a nature_n neither_o by_o prayer_n nor_o fast_v and_o therefore_o what_o shall_v i_o judge_v of_o my_o state_n but_o that_o it_o be_v like_a i_o be_o not_o convert_v and_o renew_v for_o if_o i_o be_v indeed_o convert_v and_o reconcile_v with_o god_n i_o conceive_v it_o shall_v fair_o otherways_o with_o i_o than_o it_o do_v 2._o in_o this_o case_n the_o true_a convert_n be_v in_o hazard_n of_o grow_v slack_a and_o careless_a in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n and_o to_o grieve_v the_o holy_a spirit_n by_o prescribe_v unto_o he_o and_o limit_v of_o he_o unto_o such_o a_o measure_n of_o profit_v in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n and_o make_v he_o know_v how_o far_o he_o have_v profit_v and_o advance_v in_o the_o course_n of_o sanctification_n yea_o there_o be_v danger_n lest_o in_o this_o case_n the_o convert_v not_o only_o become_v cold-rife_a in_o the_o exercise_n of_o piety_n but_o also_o turn_v loose_a in_o his_o conversation_n and_o follow_v the_o allurement_n of_o the_o world_n have_v so_o far_o hearken_v to_o the_o temptation_n as_o to_o think_v it_o in_o vain_a that_o he_o have_v washen_v his_o hand_n in_o innocency_n as_o ps._n 73._o befall_v the_o prophet_n 3._o for_o remove_v of_o this_o doubt_n the_o afflict_a have_v reason_n to_o check_v himself_o for_o harken_v so_o far_o unto_o the_o temptation_n as_o to_o join_v with_o hypocrite_n in_o his_o complaint_n isa._n 58._o 5._o wherefore_o have_v we_o fast_v say_v they_o and_o thou_o â—â—st_n not_o wherefore_o have_v we_o afflict_v our_o soul_n and_o thou_o like_v no_o knowledge_n but_o because_o nothing_o do_v more_o trouble_v the_o afflict_a then_o his_o suspicion_n of_o his_o own_o hypocrisy_n let_v the_o cause_n be_v search_v from_o which_o his_o suspicion_n do_v arise_v one_o of_o they_o may_v be_v this_o that_o in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n the_o eye_n of_o the_o afflict_a be_v more_o and_o more_o open_v to_o perceive_v the_o power_n and_o poison_n of_o his_o natural_a corruption_n more_o clear_o than_o he_o perceive_v before_o and_o this_o decipher_n of_o sin_n more_o and_o more_o do_v hinder_v he_o to_o see_v the_o growth_n of_o his_o light_n and_o the_o growth_n of_o his_o hatred_n against_o manifest_a sin_n join_v with_o the_o overturning_a of_o his_o own_o high_a imagination_n and_o native_a pride_n another_o cause_n may_v be_v this_o that_o the_o true_a convert_n have_v promise_v unto_o himself_o in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n more_o and_o great_a benefit_n spiritual_a from_o god_n than_o he_o do_v by_o experience_n find_v which_o because_o he_o do_v not_o find_v he_o think_v he_o have_v not_o profit_v a_o three_o cause_n may_v be_v this_o that_o the_o lord_n be_v about_o the_o purge_n of_o he_o from_o practical_a error_n such_o as_o be_v the_o high_a estimation_n of_o his_o own_o diligence_n in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n as_o if_o there_o be_v some_o sort_n of_o merit_n annex_v unto_o the_o work_v prescribe_v to_o the_o convert_n by_o the_o lord_n or_o as_o if_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n have_v in_o they_o some_o force_n and_o efficacy_n in_o produce_v such_o effect_n in_o he_o as_o the_o convert_n have_v expect_v or_o as_o if_o the_o lord_n have_v oblige_v himself_o to_o bless_v sensible_o diligence_n in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n to_o the_o diligent_a man_n satisfaction_n 4._o therefore_o first_o let_v the_o afflict_a continue_v in_o his_o diligence_n and_o bewar_n of_o the_o foresay_a practical_a error_n let_v he_o humble_v himself_o before_o christ_n that_o he_o may_v draw_v more_o virtue_n out_o of_o he_o by_o faith_n and_o by_o so_o much_o the_o more_o as_o he_o â—indeth_v sin_n himself_o and_o not_o profiâ—ing_v in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n let_v he_o lay_v the_o fast_o hold_v on_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o on_o christ_n offer_v therein_o for_o give_v righteousness_n and_o sanctification_n second_o let_v he_o set_v upon_o the_o exercise_n of_o every_o duty_n with_o prayer_n that_o he_o may_v follow_v the_o duty_n in_o christ_n name_n with_o his_o eye_n fix_v on_o god_n grace_n and_o after_o the_o discharge_n of_o the_o duty_n let_v he_o look_v to_o christ_n that_o from_o he_o he_o may_v have_v the_o blessing_n for_o without_o christ_n we_o can_v do_v nothing_o acceptable_o nor_o with_o profit_n last_o of_o all_o let_v he_o not_o esteem_v light_o of_o the_o effect_n of_o his_o diligence_n as_o if_o he_o do_v no_o way_n profit_n but_o when_o he_o have_v right_o consider_v matter_n if_o he_o find_v the_o least_o fruit_n follow_v his_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n let_v he_o give_v the_o glory_n of_o it_o to_o god_n in_o christ_n the_o giver_n thereof_o and_o humble_o put_v up_o
his_o lamentation_n for_o his_o short-coming_a in_o duty_n unto_o god_n by_o prayer_n for_o this_o be_v the_o way_n to_o make_v progress_n in_o faith_n and_o repentance_n and_o humility_n and_o submission_n of_o his_o will_n unto_o god_n in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n and_o let_v he_o thank_v the_o lord_n that_o from_o day_n to_o day_n he_o be_v keep_v from_o scandalous_a out-breaking_a chap._n xvii_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o convert_n doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v regenerate_v because_o he_o seem_v to_o himself_o to_o follow_v religion_n and_o righteousness_n from_o the_o common_a operation_n of_o god_n work_v by_o moral_a suasion_n and_o not_o from_o the_o special_a operation_n and_o impulsion_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n there_o be_v some_o true_a convert_n who_o have_v profit_v so_o far_o in_o the_o amendment_n of_o their_o life_n and_o conform_v their_o conversation_n unto_o the_o rule_n of_o god_n word_n that_o the_o yoke_n of_o christ_n be_v become_v easy_a to_o they_o and_o their_o delight_n be_v to_o be_v frequent_o about_o the_o exercise_n of_o religion_n and_o work_n of_o righteousness_n and_o yet_o sometime_o they_o be_v trouble_v with_o suspicion_n whether_o the_o work_n of_o regeneration_n in_o they_o be_v solid_a because_o any_o thing_n they_o do_v may_v be_v do_v as_o they_o conceive_v by_o temporary_a believer_n in_o who_o no_o sound_a renovation_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n will_v be_v find_v i_o find_v nothing_o in_o i_o say_v one_o of_o the_o effectual_a motion_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n but_o all_o by_o way_n of_o moral_a suasion_n by_o imitation_n of_o other_o by_o education_n as_o may_v be_v find_v in_o the_o unrenewed_a disciple_n of_o moral_a philosophy_n for_o as_o they_o by_o frequent_a action_n do_v acquire_v habit_n wherewith_o be_v endue_v they_o discharge_v moral_a duty_n more_o easy_o and_o with_o delight_n so_o i_o by_o discharge_v act_n of_o religion_n and_o acquaint_v myself_o with_o they_o daily_o do_v seem_v to_o myself_o to_o have_v acquire_v a_o facility_n and_o delectation_n in_o religious_a action_n and_o work_n of_o righteousness_n towards_o my_o neighbour_n 2._o this_o case_n we_o grant_v be_v very_o perilous_a and_o subtile_o colour_v by_o satan_n to_o deceive_v and_o weaken_v the_o true_a convert_n for_o it_o be_v true_a what_o power_n have_v be_v see_v in_o moral_a philosophy_n among_o pagan_n to_o put_v a_o lustre_n on_o man_n civil_a conversation_n must_v be_v also_o grant_v to_o theology_n among_o profess_a christian_n because_o divine_a threaten_n and_o promise_n for_o procure_v outward_a reformation_n of_o a_o man_n life_n be_v more_o apt_a to_o prevail_v with_o a_o man_n than_o all_o moral_a philosophy_n and_o it_o be_v true_a also_o that_o education_n by_o parent_n and_o imitation_n of_o good_a man_n be_v of_o great_a force_n moral_o to_o persuade_v a_o man_n to_o the_o follow_v of_o the_o outward_a duty_n of_o religion_n and_o to_o a_o civil_a conversation_n wherefore_o it_o be_v no_o wonder_n to_o see_v a_o true_a convert_n doubt_n of_o his_o own_o regeneration_n when_o he_o compare_v external_a duty_n discharge_v by_o himself_o with_o the_o external_a duty_n discharge_v by_o other_o who_o heart_n he_o can_v see_v but_o must_v judge_v charitable_o of_o they_o and_o yet_o can_v neither_o be_v clear_a determinate_o to_o affirm_v all_o such_o to_o be_v true_a convert_n nor_o to_o affirm_v himself_o to_o be_v a_o true_a convert_n so_o long_o as_o he_o suspect_v that_o as_o some_o other_o reformation_n so_o also_o his_o own_o reformation_n may_v prove_v no_o better_o then_o from_o moral_a suasion_n which_o may_v be_v â—ound_v in_o a_o man_n unregenerat_a 3._o for_o louse_v of_o this_o doubt_n and_o strengthen_n of_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n let_v he_o examine_v himself_o whether_o in_o the_o conscience_n of_o his_o natural_a sinfulness_n and_o sense_n of_o his_o own_o unworthiness_n and_o inability_n to_o deliver_v himself_o from_o the_o power_n of_o sin_n wrath_n and_o misery_n he_o have_v flee_v and_o from_o time_n to_o time_n do_v fly_v to_o christ_n according_a to_o the_o tenor_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n to_o be_v justify_v sanctify_a and_o save_v by_o he_o and_o do_v follow_v the_o exercise_n of_o religion_n and_o righteousness_n in_o obedience_n to_o the_o command_n of_o god_n if_o his_o conscience_n answer_v he_o that_o so_o he_o do_v then_o first_o let_v he_o look_v upon_o his_o doubt_v of_o his_o state_n as_o the_o subtle_a tentation_n of_o satan_n and_o that_o he_o may_v be_v strong_a against_o this_o tentation_n let_v he_o renew_v the_o acknowledgement_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o sinfulness_n of_o his_o weakness_n and_o unworthiness_n and_o renew_v also_o his_o consent_n to_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o his_o purpose_n to_o obey_v the_o commandment_n of_o god_n in_o the_o strength_n of_o christ_n for_o by_o this_o mean_v he_o shall_v gain_v the_o entry_n into_o his_o refuge_n wherefrom_a satan_n be_v draw_v he_o by_o furnish_v doubt_n and_o weaken_v his_o faith_n second_o have_v casten_z his_o anchor_n within_o the_o vail_n and_o settle_v his_o faith_n on_o christ_n jesus_n let_v he_o now_o maintain_v his_o former_a course_n so_o far_o as_o truth_n will_v suffer_v that_o his_o former_a course_n of_o life_n in_o follow_v with_o delight_n the_o exercise_n of_o religion_n and_o righteousness_n do_v proceed_v from_o the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o let_v he_o consider_v that_o it_o be_v not_o a_o sufficient_a reason_n to_o call_v in_o question_n the_o infuse_a habit_n of_o save_a grace_n because_o supernatural_a habit_n infuse_v immediate_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n be_v entertain_v augment_v and_o confirm_v by_o frequent_a act_n and_o daily_a exercise_n no_o less_o than_o natural_a or_o moral_a habit_n be_v which_o be_v acquire_v by_o exercise_n and_o this_o be_v clear_a from_o scripture_n wherein_o be_v many_o exhortation_n to_o put_v faith_n love_n repentance_n patience_n etc._n etc._n in_o frequent_a exercise_n that_o these_o gracious_a habit_n may_v grow_v strong_a as_o the_o apostle_n peter_n do_v speak_v 2_o epist._n 1._o chap._n ver_fw-la 5_o 6._o etc._n etc._n three_o let_v he_o put_v a_o difference_n in_o judge_v of_o his_o own_o conversation_n and_o the_o conversation_n of_o other_o of_o who_o principle_n and_o end_n of_o outward_a godly_a carriage_n he_o can_v judge_v as_o he_o can_v do_v of_o his_o own_o for_o a_o man_n in_o nature_n unregenerat_a or_o a_o temporary_a believer_n may_v make_v profession_n of_o true_a religion_n and_o outward_o go_v on_o in_o a_o blameless_a conversation_n with_o this_o opinion_n that_o by_o his_o work_n he_o shall_v please_v god_n and_o procure_v salvation_n to_o himself_o but_o the_o true_a convert_n shall_v be_v find_v a_o renouncer_n of_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o work_n a_o man_n sensible_a of_o his_o own_o sinfulness_n and_o imperfection_n who_o have_v flee_v and_o resolve_v still_o to_o adhere_v to_o christ_n for_o righteousness_n and_o salvation_n through_o he_o the_o find_v whereof_o in_o any_o measure_n after_o examination_n may_v solve_v the_o convert_n doubt_v for_o a_o man_n in_o nature_n can_v so_o hate_v sin_n and_o follow_v holiness_n as_o to_o renounce_v confidence_n in_o his_o holiness_n and_o slve_v unto_o christ_n for_o righteousness_n four_o let_v the_o afflict_a convert_n consider_v that_o the_o lord_n deal_v with_o his_o child_n both_o by_o moral_a motive_n and_o by_o effectual_a persuasion_n unto_o the_o obedience_n of_o faith_n may_v and_o do_v very_o well_o concur_v and_o agree_v together_o neither_o be_v the_o special_a operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n with_o any_o reason_n to_o be_v suspect_v because_o he_o sweet_o lead_v on_o his_o child_n by_o way_n of_o counsel_n without_o the_o child_n observation_n of_o any_o notable_a impulse_n make_v he_o to_o overcome_v strong_a tentation_n unto_o sin_n whereunto_o he_o be_v natural_o incline_v for_o the_o more_o victorious_a grace_n be_v over_o corruption_n the_o efficacy_n of_o the_o lord_n grace_n be_v the_o more_o conspicuous_a and_o that_o obedience_n be_v most_o pleasant_a to_o god_n wherein_o corrupt_a nature_n make_v most_o opposition_n therefore_o in_o this_o case_n here_o presuppose_v let_v he_o stand_v to_o the_o defence_n of_o his_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o go_v on_o cheerful_o in_o the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n against_o satan_n tentation_n solicit_v he_o to_o doubt_v and_o discouragement_n which_o counsel_n if_o he_o follow_v he_o shall_v find_v by_o experience_n that_o he_o have_v make_v use_n of_o the_o shield_n of_o faith_n and_o get_v the_o victory_n not_o without_o the_o special_a operation_n and_o impulse_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n chap._n xviii_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o true_a convert_n doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v regenerate_v because_o he_o find_v not_o self-denial_n in_o the_o measure_n which_o be_v requisite_a in_o convert_n
some_o true_a convert_n be_v find_v who_o have_v for_o a_o time_n enjoy_v pâ—eace_n of_o conscience_n have_v call_v their_o conversion_n in_o question_n by_o occasion_n of_o hear_v or_o read_v some_o sermon_n of_o some_o zealous_a preacher_n press_v the_o mark_n of_o true_a and_o sincere_a conversion_n and_o make_v self-denial_n and_o love_v of_o god_n for_o himself_o the_o main_a mark_n of_o conversion_n and_o without_o circumspect_a and_o wise_a difference_n put_v by_o he_o betwixt_o legal_a perfection_n and_o evangelical_a sincerity_n press_v self-denial_n and_o the_o love_a of_o god_n abstract_o further_a than_o any_o saint_n do_v attain_v unto_o in_o this_o life_n whereupon_o some_o tender_a soul_n do_v fall_n in_o question_n with_o themselves_o whether_o they_o be_v among_o the_o true_a and_o sincere_a convert_n because_o they_o know_v that_o our_o lord_n require_v self-denial_n in_o every_o person_n who_o will_v follow_v he_o and_o do_v condemn_v they_o all_o for_o unbeliever_n who_o seek_v glory_n of_o man_n and_o not_o the_o glory_n which_o be_v of_o god_n and_o because_o the_o preacher_n possible_o have_v make_v the_o love_a of_o god_n for_o his_o benefit_n to_o be_v too_o too_o mercenary_a and_o have_v press_v without_o respect_n to_o benefit_n that_o god_n must_v be_v love_v for_o himself_o therefore_o the_o weak_a convert_n begin_v to_o be_v trouble_v as_o if_o he_o be_v not_o a_o true_a convert_n at_o all_o say_v what_o shall_v i_o think_v of_o myself_o and_o of_o my_o follow_v of_o christ_n see_v i_o feel_v so_o little_a of_o self-denial_n in_o i_o see_v i_o have_v love_v christ_n for_o my_o own_o good_a and_o many_o a_o time_n in_o my_o best_a action_n i_o have_v seek_v the_o commendation_n of_o man_n in_o my_o heart_n and_o i_o have_v be_v ill_o please_v when_o i_o do_v not_o obtain_v it_o 2._o for_o solve_v of_o this_o doubt_n we_o grant_v that_o every_o man_n who_o will_v follow_v christ_n be_v bind_v to_o deny_v himself_o and_o true_a it_o be_v there_o be_v nothing_o more_o difficile_a then_o to_o forsake_v our_o own_o carnal_a wisdom_n and_o estimation_n of_o our_o own_o worth_n work_n and_o ability_n how_o small_a â—oever_o neither_o be_v there_o any_o more_o dangerous_a evil_n then_o in_o the_o discharge_n of_o christian_a duty_n to_o seek_v or_o accept_v our_o own_o glory_n and_o the_o applause_n of_o man_n for_o he_o that_o in_o this_o point_n do_v foster_v his_o natural_a corruption_n certain_o do_v not_o in_o so_o far_o favour_v these_o thing_n which_o be_v god_n but_o serve_v his_o own_o flesh_n therefore_o because_o the_o relic_n of_o this_o and_o all_o other_o sin_n do_v remain_v in_o the_o regenerate_a the_o lord_n by_o variety_n of_o exercise_n set_v his_o child_n daily_o to_o learn_v this_o lesson_n over_o and_o over_o for_o mortify_v their_o corrupt_a lust_n it_o be_v their_o duty_n therefore_o when_o any_o spark_n of_o this_o evil_n of_o self-seeking_a do_v appear_v to_o cast_v themselves_o down_o humble_o at_o christ_n foot_n and_o confess_v the_o sin_n lest_o some_o spark_n of_o wrath_n break_v forth_o upon_o they_o from_o the_o lord_n for_o the_o end_n of_o this_o exercise_n yea_o and_o the_o reason_n of_o the_o lord_n not_o remove_v full_o indwelling_a sin_n be_v to_o humble_v we_o and_o send_v we_o to_o christ_n lest_o if_o he_o shall_v otherways_o deal_v with_o we_o we_o shall_v grow_v proud_a and_o not_o make_v such_o use_n as_o become_v we_o of_o god_n free_a grace_n and_o christ_n righteousness_n impute_v to_o the_o believer_n mean_v time_n we_o must_v not_o yield_v to_o satan_n tentation_n colour_v with_o pretence_n of_o scripture_n as_o if_o christ_n have_v discharge_v we_o to_o seek_v any_o good_a from_o he_o to_o ourselves_o or_o to_o love_v he_o for_o the_o good_a which_o he_o have_v purchase_v to_o we_o and_o which_o he_o from_o time_n to_o time_n bestow_v on_o we_o for_o when_o christ_n require_v of_o we_o to_o deny_v ourselves_o he_o require_v indeed_o the_o renounciation_n of_o our_o own_o carnal_a and_o corrupt_a lust_n and_o confidence_n in_o our_o own_o wisdom_n worth_a and_o work_n but_o he_o do_v not_o require_v of_o we_o to_o renounce_v the_o sanctify_a love_n of_o our_o own_o well-being_n or_o the_o seek_v our_o sanctification_n consolation_n and_o salvation_n in_o he_o alone_o for_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o of_o his_o glory_n be_v the_o main_a end_n of_o all_o our_o desire_n and_o the_o seek_v that_o god_n will_v glorify_v his_o own_o grace_n and_o truth_n in_o his_o promise_n to_o we_o by_o sanctify_v comfort_v and_o save_v we_o be_v a_o subordinat_a mean_n unto_o god_n glory_n yea_o the_o more_o we_o seek_v our_o righteousness_n consolation_n and_o salvation_n in_o god_n through_o christ_n the_o more_o we_o glorify_v god_n and_o do_v say_v in_o substance_n of_o god_n that_o he_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o all_o felicity_n and_o that_o he_o be_v good_a and_o faithful_a to_o grant_v all_o good_a thing_n to_o such_o as_o believe_v in_o he_o and_o do_v seek_v grace_n for_o grace_n from_o he_o 3._o it_o be_v true_a that_o we_o shall_v love_v god_n above_o all_o thing_n and_o love_v he_o more_o than_o ourselves_o and_o love_v he_o though_o he_o shall_v slay_v we_o but_o it_o be_v true_a also_o that_o the_o more_o we_o love_v he_o for_o any_o cause_n the_o more_o we_o esteem_v of_o he_o the_o more_o we_o magnify_v and_o glorify_v he_o and_o what_o be_v love_n to_o and_o seek_v of_o god_n but_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o our_o own_o emptiness_n and_o his_o all-sufficiency_n and_o what_o be_v our_o seek_a communion_n with_o he_o but_o a_o refound_a of_o ourselves_o into_o the_o fountain_n whence_o we_o have_v our_o be_v that_o he_o may_v be_v glorify_v in_o our_o be_v and_o full_o well-being_n and_o so_o our_o spiritual_a love_n of_o god_n for_o himself_o and_o for_o the_o goodness_n which_o be_v let_v forth_o in_o do_v good_a to_o we_o be_v not_o mercenary_a love_n but_o be_v the_o acknowledgement_n of_o his_o perfection_n and_o of_o his_o grace_n to_o we_o to_o who_o he_o will_v be_v our_o god_n in_o christ_n even_o all_o in_o all_o to_o we_o in_o he_o as_o for_o seek_v of_o man_n applause_n whensoever_o whether_o upon_o receive_v of_o any_o benefit_n or_o discharge_v of_o any_o duty_n the_o corrupt_a lust_n of_o vain_a glory_n do_v mix_v itself_o which_o can_v but_o obscure_v and_o hinder_v the_o shine_a of_o his_o glory_n which_o shall_v be_v aim_v at_o in_o all_o thing_n by_o we_o incontinent_a upon_o the_o first_o motion_n of_o this_o our_o sinful_a corruption_n perceive_v let_v out_o sin_n be_v humble_o acknowledge_v and_o confess_v unto_o god_n the_o searcher_n of_o the_o heart_n and_o let_v supplication_n in_o our_o spirit_n be_v make_v unto_o he_o to_o pardon_v our_o sin_n and_o mortify_v the_o bitter_a root_n of_o this_o and_o all_o other_o evil_n in_o we_o chap._n xix_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n whether_o he_o be_v indeed_o convert_v arise_v from_o this_o that_o he_o know_v no_o child_n of_o god_n so_o hardly_o exercise_v as_o he_o be_v some_o convert_n be_v who_o by_o the_o light_n of_o the_o law_n of_o god_n be_v bring_v to_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o misery_n and_o by_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v bring_v to_o seek_v their_o relief_n in_o christ_n and_o have_v take_v on_o his_o yoke_n and_o submit_v themselves_o to_o his_o discipline_n and_o yet_o fall_v in_o question_n whether_o they_o be_v convert_v because_o they_o do_v find_v such_o inequality_n in_o their_o conversation_n and_o such_o change_n in_o their_o condition_n and_o variety_n of_o tentation_n as_o they_o can_v find_v no_o example_n of_o the_o like_a in_o scripture_n and_o where_o it_o please_v they_o to_o be_v free_a with_o their_o pastor_n or_o confident_a christian_a friend_n do_v fall_v out_o in_o question_n if_o ever_o they_o have_v read_v in_o scripture_n any_o like_a unto_o they_o in_o such_o and_o such_o particular_n as_o they_o please_v to_o condescend_v upon_o and_o if_o their_o pastor_n or_o christian_a friend_n shall_v give_v they_o some_o example_n in_o the_o scripture_n of_o god_n child_n so_o exercise_v they_o be_v ready_a to_o find_v such_o difference_n between_o the_o case_n of_o the_o godly_a in_o scripture_n and_o their_o case_n as_o they_o can_v receive_v satisfaction_n and_o if_o possible_o it_o be_v tell_v they_o that_o their_o caâ—e_n be_v not_o singular_a but_o such_o as_o have_v befall_v sundry_a of_o their_o christian_a acquaintance_n in_o this_o present_a age_n yet_o they_o can_v receive_v satisfaction_n for_o all_o this_o but_o still_o do_v insist_v that_o their_o case_n be_v not_o like_a to_o any_o of_o the_o godly_a whereupon_o they_o foster_v the_o suspicion_n of_o their_o not_o
grace_n of_o god_n the_o man_n make_v a_o believer_n in_o christ_n than_o the_o absolute_a promise_n of_o make_v a_o new_a heart_n and_o of_o write_v the_o law_n of_o the_o lord_n therein_o jer._n 31._o 31._o and_o ezek_n 11._o 19_o and_o all_o the_o promise_n of_o save_a grace_n set_v down_o in_o holy_a scripture_n do_v all_o of_o they_o belong_v to_o the_o believer_n in_o christ_n in_o who_o all_o the_o promise_n be_v yea_o and_o amen_o as_o if_o his_o name_n be_v set_v down_o 4._o as_o to_o his_o doubt_n arise_v from_o his_o weak_a and_o infirm_a application_n of_o the_o promise_n let_v the_o afflict_a consider_v what_o god_n have_v already_o wrought_v and_o be_v a_o work_n in_o he_o by_o way_n of_o application_n for_o first_o god_n have_v grant_v to_o he_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n with_o other_o in_o the_o visible_a kirk_n so_o that_o it_o may_v be_v say_v unto_o he_o in_o this_o respect_n as_o it_o be_v esa._n 5._o 4._o what_o can_v be_v do_v in_o outward_a mean_n and_o offer-making_a of_o grace_n which_o be_v not_o do_v second_o god_n have_v draw_v more_o near_o unto_o he_o and_o have_v illuminat_fw-la his_o mind_n about_o his_o sinful_a state_n in_o nature_n and_o about_o the_o way_n of_o delivery_n by_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o yet_o more_o have_v incline_v his_o heart_n to_o accept_v of_o the_o offer_n of_o christ_n and_o make_v answer_n to_o the_o call_v as_o david_n do_v when_o thou_o say_v seek_v my_o face_n my_o soul_n answer_v thy_o face_n o_o lord_n will_v i_o seek_v psal._n 27._o 8._o thus_o god_n have_v apply_v christ_n and_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o the_o afflict_a and_o have_v make_v the_o afflict_a to_o fly_v unto_o christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n and_o to_o apply_v he_o unto_o himself_o that_o hitherto_o the_o afflict_a have_v no_o reason_n to_o complain_v of_o not_o application_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o promise_n on_o god_n part_n nor_o yet_o of_o begun-application_n on_o the_o afflicted_n part_n where_o be_v theâ—_n in-lake_n then_o i_o answer_v the_o defect_n be_v first_o in_o the_o afflict_a who_o have_v not_o due_o consider_v the_o passage_n of_o god_n gracious_a approach_v to_o he_o and_o draw_v of_o the_o man_n to_o himself_o in_o christ_n another_o defect_n be_v that_o the_o afflict_a upon_o groundless_a mistake_n do_v not_o lay_v claim_n to_o christ_n and_o to_o all_o the_o promise_n of_o grace_n for_o righteousness_n and_o salvation_n in_o he_o and_o that_o because_o he_o be_v not_o so_o clear_a of_o his_o right_n unto_o and_o interest_n in_o christ_n as_o he_o can_v lay_v claim_n confident_o unto_o the_o same_o 5._o for_o clear_v of_o the_o afflict_a in_o this_o his_o right_a and_o warrant_v confident_o to_o apply_v christ_n and_o all_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n let_v he_o consider_v first_o the_o dreadful_a sentence_n of_o the_o curse_n and_o condemnation_n of_o all_o they_o that_o do_v not_o believe_v on_o christ_n joh._n 3._o 18._o he_o that_o believe_v in_o christ_n be_v not_o condemn_v but_o he_o that_o believe_v not_o be_v condemn_v already_o because_o he_o have_v not_o believe_v in_o the_o only_o beget_v son_n of_o god_n second_o let_v he_o consider_v the_o largeness_n of_o the_o gospel_n wherein_o grace_n be_v offer_v to_o all_o and_o every_o believer_n joh._n 3._o 16._o god_n so_o love_v the_o world_n that_o he_o give_v his_o only_a beget_v son_n that_o whosoever_o believe_v in_o he_o shall_v not_o perish_v but_o have_v everlasting_a life_n he_o say_v whosoever_o without_o exception_n lest_o any_o man_n who_o desire_v to_o believe_v in_o christ_n shall_v doubt_v that_o he_o shall_v be_v receive_v and_o make_v welcome_a three_o let_v he_o mediate_v upon_o the_o wonderful_a mystery_n of_o the_o incarnation_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n who_o that_o he_o may_v ransom_v and_o redeem_v his_o people_n from_o sin_n and_o misery_n have_v assume_v humane_a nature_n into_o the_o union_n of_o person_n with_o his_o divine_a nature_n and_o give_v a_o perpetual_a pawn_n and_o pledge_v of_o his_o hearty_a willingness_n to_o reconcile_v justify_v sanctify_v and_o save_v to_o the_o uttermost_a every_o one_o who_o shall_v come_v unto_o god_n through_o he_o whereunto_o his_o mediatory_a office_n and_o clothing_n himself_o with_o most_o sweet_a relation_n of_o prophet_n priest_n and_o king_n to_o all_o his_o follower_n do_v hear_v abundant_a witness_n four_o let_v he_o hearken_v to_o the_o quicken_a and_o comfortable_a invitation_n which_o by_o his_o spirit_n speak_v in_o scripture_n he_o utter_v in_o the_o ear_n of_o all_o to_o who_o the_o gospel_n come_v with_o a_o joyful_a sound_n ho_o every_o one_o that_o thirst_v isa._n 55._o 1._o to_o 10._o come_v unto_o i_o all_o you_o that_o labour_n and_o be_v heavy_a load_v mat._n 11._o 28._o we_o be_v ambassador_n for_o christ_n as_o though_o god_n do_v beseech_v you_o by_o we_o we_o pray_v you_o in_o christ_n stead_n beye_v reconcile_v to_o god_n 2_o cor._n 5._o 20._o and_o whosoever_o will_v let_v he_o take_v the_o water_n of_o life_n free_o rev._n 22._o 17._o five_o let_v the_o afflict_a consider_v what_o answer_n he_o will_v give_v to_o the_o express_a command_n of_o god_n 1_o joh._n 3._o 23._o this_o be_v his_o comandment_n that_o we_o shall_v believe_v in_o the_o name_n of_o his_o son_n jesus_n christ_n and_o love_v one_o another_o as_o he_o have_v command_v we_o for_o this_o commandment_n be_v direct_v to_o all_o the_o hearer_n of_o the_o gospel_n charge_v every_o one_o without_o exception_n first_o to_o examine_v serious_o their_o life_n by_o the_o rule_n of_o god_n law_n that_o thereby_o they_o may_v be_v convince_v of_o their_o damnable_a state_n in_o nature_n and_o make_v to_o acknowledge_v their_o sin_n and_o misery_n and_o inability_n to_o help_v themselves_o second_o have_v examine_v and_o acknowledge_v their_o natural_a lose_a condition_n they_o be_v command_v to_o fly_v to_o jesus_n christ_n that_o by_o faith_n in_o he_o they_o may_v be_v deliver_v three_o that_o have_v flee_v to_o christ_n they_o shall_v evidence_n their_o faith_n by_o love_n to_o christ_n or_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o their_o neighbour_n especial_o such_o as_o be_v of_o the_o household_n of_o faith_n in_o which_o commandment_n both_o the_o order_n of_o apply_v law_n and_o gospel_n be_v set_v down_o and_o the_o necessity_n of_o believe_v in_o christ_n upon_o the_o warrant_n of_o this_o clear_a command_n so_o that_o whosoever_o be_v a_o hearer_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o do_v not_o in_o this_o order_n fly_v unto_o christ_n he_o be_v inexcusable_a even_o the_o wicked_a and_o worst_a of_o man_n and_o much_o less_o excusable_a be_v the_o afflict_a convert_n of_o who_o we_o be_v now_o speak_v who_o already_o have_v acknowledge_v his_o lose_a condition_n without_o christ_n and_o know_v that_o there_o be_v no_o hope_n of_o relief_n except_o by_o faith_n in_o jesus_n and_o have_v flee_v to_o christ_n and_o dare_v not_o depart_v from_o he_o if_o this_o man_n shall_v stand_v here_o and_o not_o rely_v on_o christ_n and_o rest_v his_o soul_n upon_o he_o confident_o what_o excuse_n can_v he_o make_v if_o he_o do_v object_n that_o his_o name_n be_v not_o write_v in_o this_o command_n 1_o joh._n 3._o 23._o it_o have_v no_o force_n to_o impede_fw-la his_o faith_n for_o neither_o be_v his_o name_n write_v in_o any_o of_o the_o ten_o command_n of_o the_o moral_a law_n and_o yet_o he_o find_v himself_o tie_v to_o the_o obedience_n of_o every_o one_o of_o they_o and_o why_o be_v he_o not_o tie_v also_o to_o this_o sweet_a command_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o grace_n as_o well_o as_o to_o other_o command_n this_o command_v be_v give_v forth_o as_o the_o last_o declaration_n of_o god_n will_n for_o relief_n of_o they_o who_o acknowledge_v that_o they_o by_o the_o law_n be_v condemn_v wherefore_o let_v not_o the_o afflict_a any_o more_o pretend_v the_o difficulty_n of_o apply_v christ_n and_o his_o grace_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n see_v it_o be_v presuppose_v he_o have_v flee_v to_o christ_n and_o dare_v neither_o depart_n from_o he_o nor_o for_o the_o pretend_a scruple_n draw_v confident_o in_o unto_o he_o but_o let_v he_o check_v and_o chide_v himself_o for_o not_o haunt_v christ_n and_o converse_v with_o he_o in_o heaven_n in_o that_o humility_n and_o confidence_n which_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n do_v allow_v unto_o he_o and_o command_v he_o to_o take_v up_o and_o hold_v fast_o chap._n xxii_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n concern_v his_o conversion_n arise_v from_o the_o observation_n in_o himself_o of_o presumption_n and_o security_n in_o his_o prosperity_n and_o of_o his_o misbelief_n in_o adversity_n there_o be_v some_o true_a convert_n who_o albeit_o they_o be_v neither_o idle_a nor_o
and_o when_o he_o can_v not_o have_v the_o first_o place_n in_o his_o father_n blessing_n content_v himself_o with_o what_o portion_n in_o the_o earth_n he_o can_v have_v beside_o therefore_o let_v the_o afflict_a labour_n to_o understand_v well_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o the_o several_a article_n thereof_o and_o let_v he_o consider_v that_o there_o be_v no_o advantage_n to_o be_v have_v by_o exclude_v of_o himself_o from_o that_o covenant_n but_o that_o if_o he_o will_v be_v save_v in_o every_o condition_n he_o must_v draw_v near_o to_o christ_n and_o lie_v hold_v on_o he_o for_o remission_n of_o sin_n and_o fresh_a furniture_n of_o grace_n for_o every_o duty_n for_o it_o be_v good_a always_o to_o draw_v near_o to_o he_o because_o he_o will_v destroy_v all_o they_o that_o depart_v far_o from_o he_o ps._n 73._o 27._o chap._n xxvi_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o true_a convert_n doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v regenerate_v because_o he_o find_v himself_o not_o only_o far_o from_o the_o measure_n of_o holiness_n which_o he_o observe_v to_o have_v be_v in_o the_o saint_n commend_v in_o scripture_n but_o also_o short_a of_o the_o measure_n which_o some_o of_o his_o acquaintance_n have_v attain_v unto_o some_o true_a convert_n be_v who_o in_o the_o time_n wherein_o they_o be_v about_o to_o strengthen_v their_o say_v by_o all_o mean_n do_v fall_n in_o comparision_n of_o themselves_o with_o other_o convert_v in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o their_o faith_n love_n endeavour_n and_o attainment_n of_o a_o holy_a conversation_n and_o find_v themselves_o very_o short_a of_o that_o measure_n which_o not_o only_o saint_n commend_v in_o scripture_n have_v attain_v unto_o but_o also_o short_a of_o what_o sundry_a of_o their_o acquaintance_n have_v gain_v and_o give_v proof_n of_o sudden_o be_v overtake_v with_o a_o sad_a suspicion_n that_o they_o may_v be_v find_v none_o of_o the_o number_n of_o true_a convert_n as_o for_o example_n when_o they_o read_v what_o david_n say_v of_o himself_o in_o the_o psalm_n and_o namely_o in_o the_o hundred_o and_o nineteen_o psalm_n they_o seem_v to_o themselves_o so_o unlike_o the_o copy_n he_o have_v cast_v unto_o they_o so_o far_o short_a of_o that_o affection_n to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n of_o that_o faith_n of_o that_o diligence_n of_o that_o sincerity_n of_o that_o patience_n of_o that_o fortitude_n in_o affliction_n and_o delectation_n in_o god_n which_o the_o practice_n of_o this_o servant_n of_o god_n do_v hold_v forth_o that_o they_o be_v ashamed_a to_o assume_v the_o name_n of_o a_o visible_a saint_n or_o faithful_a servant_n of_o god_n and_o for_o the_o same_o reason_n do_v forbear_v under_o this_o exercise_n to_o apply_v unto_o themselves_o the_o precious_a promise_n make_v to_o the_o faithful_a servant_n of_o god_n in_o the_o scripture_n what_o be_o i_o say_v the_o afflict_a that_o i_o shall_v presume_v to_o intrude_v myself_o in_o the_o number_n of_o the_o saint_n what_o be_o i_o that_o i_o shall_v apply_v to_o myself_o what_o be_v promise_v to_o true_a convert_n and_o sincere_a servant_n of_o god_n be_v i_o such_o a_o one_o as_o this_o person_n or_o that_o person_n be_v i_o may_v then_o for_o my_o consolation_n apply_v promise_n make_v unto_o such_o saint_n but_o now_o i_o can_v apply_v their_o privilege_n except_o for_o conviction_n of_o my_o conscience_n that_o i_o be_o just_o for_o my_o unlikeness_n unto_o they_o seclude_v from_o the_o promise_v make_v unto_o they_o and_o those_o that_o be_v like_a unto_o they_o 2._o for_o louse_v of_o this_o doubt_n we_o must_v acknowledge_v that_o the_o comparison_n of_o ourselves_o with_o the_o rule_n of_o perfection_n hold_v forth_o in_o the_o scripture_n be_v to_o be_v aim_v at_o by_o all_o and_o the_o comparison_n of_o ourselves_o with_o the_o eminent_a servant_n of_o god_n who_o have_v attain_v a_o great_a measure_n of_o growth_n in_o holiness_n be_v very_o profitable_a if_o it_o be_v prudent_o manage_v for_o the_o first_o comparison_n teach_v we_o what_o we_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o attain_v and_o the_o other_o teach_v we_o what_o may_v be_v by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n attain_v unto_o even_o in_o this_o life_n again_o both_o these_o comparison_n do_v serve_v to_o humble_v we_o before_o god_n when_o we_o perceive_v ourselves_o not_o only_o short_a of_o perfection_n which_o can_v be_v full_o attain_v unto_o in_o this_o life_n but_o also_o short_a of_o these_o degree_n which_o may_v be_v attain_v and_o have_v be_v attain_v by_o other_o in_o this_o life_n we_o can_v choose_v but_o think_v the_o more_o mean_o of_o ourselves_o and_o put_v down_o the_o sail_n of_o self-estimation_n three_o this_o sort_n of_o comparison_n be_v profitable_a to_o make_v we_o more_o upright_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o our_o own_o inherent_a righteousness_n and_o fly_v for_o refuge_n to_o the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n obedience_n and_o satisfaction_n impute_v unto_o all_o that_o believe_v in_o he_o according_a as_o the_o example_n of_o the_o apostle_n paul_n who_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o his_o privilege_n performance_n suffering_n and_o inherent_a righteousness_n count_v they_o all_o but_o dung_n that_o he_o may_v win_v christ_n and_o be_v find_v in_o he_o not_o have_v his_o own_o righteousness_n which_o be_v of_o the_o law_n but_o that_o which_o be_v through_o the_o faith_n of_o christ_n the_o righteousness_n which_o be_v of_o god_n by_o faith_n phil._n 3._o 8_o 9_o 3._o but_o this_o sort_n of_o comparison_n be_v dangerous_a and_o hurtful_a when_o it_o tend_v to_o discouragement_n when_o it_o make_v we_o think_v little_a of_o the_o measure_n of_o god_n grace_n grant_v unto_o we_o when_o it_o make_v we_o heartless_a in_o the_o course_n of_o obedience_n and_o hopeless_a that_o we_o shall_v attain_v unto_o the_o measure_n whereunto_o the_o saint_n have_v attain_v 4._o wherefore_o let_v the_o afflict_a strengthen_v the_o thing_n which_o remain_v and_o be_v ready_a to_o die_v rev._n 3._o 2._o let_v he_o beware_v lest_o he_o quench_v the_o smoke_a flax_n or_o break_v the_o bruise_a reed_n wherein_o he_o have_v christ_n help_n to_o look_v unto_o isa._n 42._o 3._o again_o let_v the_o afflict_a consider_v that_o there_o be_v divers_a degree_n of_o save_a faith_n divers_a degree_n of_o the_o measure_n of_o sanctification_n and_o growth_n in_o grace_n for_o some_o be_v old_a man_n some_o young_a and_o strong_a man_n and_o some_o babe_n in_o christ_n and_o that_o the_o same_o duty_n in_o the_o same_o measure_n be_v not_o to_o be_v expect_v from_o the_o tender_a and_o weak_a beginner_n which_o be_v require_v of_o the_o strong_a and_o experiment_a soldier_n 3._o let_v the_o afflict_a remember_v that_o nothing_o be_v give_v nor_o promise_v nor_o do_v unto_o the_o saint_n in_o scripture_n or_o in_o latter_a age_n for_o any_o merit_n or_o worthiness_n in_o they_o but_o altogether_o of_o free_a grace_n and_o so_o much_o the_o more_o shall_v this_o be_v remember_v as_o this_o doubt_n of_o the_o afflict_a arise_v from_o comparison_n of_o his_o condition_n with_o the_o measure_n of_o sanctification_n in_o other_o do_v presuppone_v the_o contrary_a as_o if_o god_n do_v deal_v with_o his_o child_n according_a to_o the_o worthiness_n of_o their_o person_n and_o merit_n of_o their_o good_a work_n which_o be_v a_o false_a supposition_n for_o why_o do_v the_o afflict_a cast_v down_o his_o courage_n and_o weaken_v his_o faith_n and_o confidence_n in_o god_n but_o for_o this_o very_a cause_n that_o he_o count_v himself_o a_o much_o more_o unworthy_a man_n and_o of_o less_o merit_n before_o god_n than_o those_o saint_n be_v or_o be_v with_o who_o he_o have_v compare_v himself_o 4._o let_v the_o afflict_a by_o so_o much_o as_o he_o do_v preceive_v himself_o more_o unworthy_a and_o more_o sinful_a than_o those_o saint_n with_o who_o he_o have_v compare_v himself_o thrust_v himself_o the_o more_o into_o the_o bosom_n of_o rich_a grace_n let_v he_o so_o much_o the_o more_o lie_v hold_v on_o the_o imputation_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n and_o cover_v his_o nakedness_n therewith_o and_o employ_v christ_n by_o faith_n so_o much_o the_o more_o that_o out_o of_o his_o fullness_n he_o may_v receive_v grace_n for_o grace_n and_o be_v make_v able_a by_o his_o spirit_n to_o bring_v forth_o more_o abundant_a fruit_n and_o come_v up_o near_o unto_o conformity_n with_o christ_n and_o the_o example_n of_o renown_v saint_n 5._o let_v the_o afflict_a consider_v that_o we_o must_v live_v by_o rule_n set_v down_o in_o scripture_n aim_v sincere_o at_o obedience_n of_o holy_a precept_n albeit_o we_o have_v not_o yet_o come_v up_o unto_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o rule_n in_o that_o measure_n which_o other_o have_v attain_v unto_o chap._n xxvii_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o true_a convert_n doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v in_o the_o bless_a state_n
from_o satan_n insinuation_n and_o crafty_a suggestion_n or_o his_o more_o discover_v and_o open_a assault_n that_o there_o be_v no_o business_n we_o can_v go_v about_o wherein_o this_o crafty_a hunter_n shall_v not_o dig_v a_o pit_n or_o lay_v a_o snare_n to_o entrap_v we_o no_o affliction_n nor_o difficulty_n wherein_o he_o shall_v not_o study_v to_o keep_v we_o back_o from_o make_v christ_n our_o refuge_n our_o helper_n and_o deliverer_n and_o that_o therefore_o we_o must_v take_v heed_n to_o obey_v the_o warning_n of_o the_o apostle_n ephes._n 6._o 10_o 11_o 12_o 13._o final_o my_o brethren_n be_v strong_a in_o the_o lord_n and_o in_o the_o power_n of_o his_o might_n put_v on_o the_o whole_a armour_n of_o god_n that_o you_o may_v be_v able_a to_o stand_v against_o the_o wile_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o so_o forth_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o chapter_n chap._n xxx_o wherein_o be_v some_o mix_a case_n speak_v of_o whereunto_o the_o true_a convert_n be_v subject_a and_o so_o may_v fall_v to_o doubt_v of_o his_o conversion_n or_o interest_n in_o christ._n there_o be_v beside_o the_o case_n whereof_o we_o have_v give_v some_o example_n and_o instance_n other_o case_n also_o which_o we_o may_v call_v mix_v case_n the_o cause_n whereof_o be_v partly_o natural_a partly_o spiritual_a wherein_o the_o true_a convert_n may_v be_v afflict_v with_o both_o bodily_a and_o spiritual_a distemper_n melancholious_a humour_n abound_v in_o the_o body_n and_o satan_n busy_a to_o stir_v himself_o in_o these_o distemper_n to_o the_o weaken_v the_o faith_n of_o the_o convert_n may_v take_v advantage_n to_o vex_v the_o child_n of_o god_n 2._o these_o bodily_a distemper_n be_v common_a both_o to_o the_o unrenewed_a and_o to_o the_o regenerate_a for_o god_n have_v not_o exeme_v his_o child_n from_o disease_n of_o the_o body_n for_o the_o righteous_a and_o the_o wise_a and_o their_o work_n be_v in_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n no_o man_n know_v either_o love_n or_o hatred_n by_o all_o that_o be_v before_o he_o all_o thing_n come_v alike_o to_o all_o there_o be_v one_o event_n or_o accident_n which_o may_v befall_v to_o the_o righteous_a and_o to_o the_o wicked_a to_o the_o good_a and_o to_o the_o clean_a and_o to_o the_o unclean_a to_o he_o that_o sacrifice_v and_o to_o he_o that_o sacrifice_v not_o as_o be_v the_o good_a so_o be_v the_o sinner_n and_o he_o that_o swear_v as_o he_o that_o fear_v a_o oath_n eccles._n 9_o 1_o 2._o saul_n the_o king_n of_o israel_n in_o his_o melancholious_a fit_n may_v by_o the_o instigation_n of_o a_o unclean_a spirit_n change_v himself_o into_o a_o angel_n of_o light_n fall_v on_o prophesy_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o his_o house_n while_o he_o be_v about_o to_o murder_n david_n 1_o sam_n 18._o 10._o and_o experience_n have_v show_v that_o some_o lie_v in_o gross_a sin_n who_o while_o they_o be_v themselves_o and_o in_o their_o wit_n be_v find_v very_o rude_a and_o ignorant_a in_o matter_n of_o religion_n and_o thing_n divine_a but_o sometime_o sudden_o fall_v in_o a_o melancholious_a ecstasy_n and_o rapture_n they_o can_v rehearse_v a_o number_n of_o passage_n of_o scripture_n and_o seem_v to_o pray_v and_o to_o bring_v a_o number_n of_o argument_n in_o their_o pray_n as_o if_o they_o have_v be_v wrestle_v with_o god_n for_o mercy_n of_o which_o scripture_n or_o word_n of_o prayer_n they_o have_v neither_o sense_n nor_o memory_n when_o they_o come_v to_o themselves_o after_o the_o melancholious_a ecstasy_n be_v over_o which_o sit_v last_v sometime_o a_o hour_n sometime_o two_o or_o thereby_o all_o which_o time_n they_o neither_o do_v hear_v nor_o see_v the_o witness_n sit_v by_o and_o behold_v the_o spectacle_n on_o the_o other_o hand_n experience_n have_v show_v how_o far_o satan_n may_v abuse_v and_o have_v abuse_v the_o fantasy_n of_o some_o holy_a person_n in_o the_o height_n of_o sharp_a fever_n and_o frenzy_n and_o what_o speech_n against_o god_n and_o their_o own_o soul_n by_o his_o instigation_n they_o have_v utter_v we_o have_v a_o example_n in_o job_n who_o in_o his_o hot_a fever_n and_o painful_a boil_n like_o a_o man_n distract_v cry_v out_o that_o god_n be_v turn_v a_o enemy_n to_o he_o that_o he_o do_v shoot_v all_o his_o arrow_n against_o he_o whereupon_o in_o his_o distemper_n he_o cry_v for_o death_n and_o curse_v the_o day_n of_o his_o birth_n most_o bitter_o of_o which_o expression_n when_o he_o be_v challenge_v by_o his_o uncharitable_a friend_n and_o judge_v to_o be_v nothing_o but_o a_o wicked_a hypocrite_n he_o excuse_v himself_o that_o when_o he_o speak_v these_o word_n he_o be_v not_o himself_o but_o in_o a_o rove_a distemper_n job._n 6._o 26._o do_v you_o imagine_v to_o reprove_v word_n and_o the_o speech_n of_o one_o that_o be_v desperate_a which_o be_v as_o wind_v 3._o but_o our_o purpose_n here_o be_v not_o to_o discourse_v of_o melancholy_n in_o general_n nor_o what_o may_v befall_v in_o common_a to_o the_o godly_a and_o the_o wicked_a in_o melancholious_a fit_n for_o this_o do_v require_v a_o large_a treatise_n and_o the_o concurrence_n both_o of_o physician_n and_o divine_n we_o purpose_v only_o to_o speak_v to_o what_o the_o true_a convert_n be_v obnoxious_a unto_o and_o when_o we_o speak_v of_o mix_a case_n wherein_o both_o the_o distemper_n of_o the_o body_n and_o brain_n do_v concur_v with_o the_o temptation_n of_o satan_n we_o do_v not_o take_v notice_n of_o any_o light_a distemper_n of_o body_n and_o mind_n which_o sudden_o come_v and_o be_v soon_o remove_v or_o which_o the_o private_a diligence_n of_o the_o child_n of_o god_n in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n may_v and_o use_v to_o overcome_v neither_o do_v we_o meddle_v with_o frenzy_n and_o madness_n which_o so_o bereave_v the_o man_n of_o the_o use_n of_o common_a reason_n that_o he_o can_v understand_v or_o make_v use_n of_o wholesome_a advice_n and_o counsel_n from_o the_o scripture_n or_o right_o conceive_v truth_n when_o it_o be_v tell_v unto_o he_o for_o in_o such_o a_o case_n the_o physician_n only_o be_v to_o be_v call_v to_o deal_v with_o the_o disease_a not_o exclude_v the_o prayer_n of_o the_o pastor_n and_o christian_a friend_n for_o he_o but_o we_o be_v to_o speak_v concern_v more_o moderate_a distemper_n wherein_o the_o afflict_a may_v lay_v forth_o his_o tentation_n and_o propound_v the_o reason_n which_o seem_v to_o fortify_v his_o doubt_n and_o to_o dispute_v of_o they_o &_o receive_v reasonable_a answer_n to_o his_o objection_n as_o they_o be_v offer_v unto_o he_o and_o in_o a_o word_n such_o a_o condition_n of_o the_o man_n mind_n as_o make_v he_o ready_a to_o hear_v and_o follow_v the_o advice_n both_o of_o the_o physician_n and_o the_o pastor_n as_o his_o need_n require_v now_o it_o be_v not_o our_o that_o the_o imagination_n of_o these_o who_o be_v of_o this_o middle_a sort_n of_o distemper_n do_v ordinary_o fain_a to_o its_o self_n sad_a and_o terrible_a thing_n and_o be_v fire_v with_o melancholious_a humour_n and_o tentation_n of_o satan_n mix_v therewith_o use_v to_o represent_v to_o its_o self_n god_n hot_a displeasure_n death_n condemnation_n and_o hell_n as_o it_o be_v before_o their_o eye_n so_o that_o it_o be_v no_o wonder_n that_o for_o the_o the_o time_n they_o doubt_v whether_o they_o can_v possible_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n but_o in_o special_a this_o seem_v most_o heavy_a unto_o they_o that_o their_o conscience_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n do_v write_v bitter_a thing_n against_o they_o and_o double_a upon_o they_o the_o deserve_a sentence_n of_o condemnation_n cast_v up_o the_o particular_a sin_n possible_o repent_v of_o and_o pardon_v as_o merit_v rejection_n from_o god_n and_o here_o main_o be_v the_o stick_n 2._o in_o discern_v and_o cure_v such_o case_n there_o be_v great_a need_n of_o wise_a circumspection_n for_o first_o information_n must_v be_v have_v of_o the_o afflicted_n condition_n so_o far_o as_o his_o friend_n and_o familiar_n can_v furnish_v 2._o the_o cure_n of_o his_o wound_n must_v be_v tender_o go_v about_o as_o the_o chirurgeon_n use_v to_o do_v when_o he_o be_v to_o deal_v with_o the_o apple_n of_o a_o man_n eye_n 3._o whatsoever_o seem_v at_o the_o first_o it_o shall_v be_v safe_a for_o the_o comforter_n of_o the_o afflict_a not_o to_o speak_v peremptory_o of_o the_o man_n state_n or_o condition_n yea_o nor_o to_o judge_v within_o themselves_o determinate_o about_o he_o 4._o but_o it_o shall_v be_v saâ—est_v to_o hear_v the_o afflict_a patient_o to_o lay_v out_o his_o own_o condition_n more_o or_o less_o confuse_o in_o more_o or_o few_o speech_n as_o he_o be_v able_a to_o express_v it_o 5._o what_o be_v further_o to_o be_v search_v after_o by_o prudent_a interrogation_n let_v it_o be_v pump_v up_o so_o far_o as_o convenient_o may_v be_v 6._o
sorrow_n indeed_o three_o let_v difference_n be_v put_v between_o grief_n of_o mind_n or_o heaviness_n in_o affliction_n and_o anguish_n of_o conscience_n for_o sin_n commit_v for_o a_o man_n may_v have_v a_o grieve_a mind_n and_o a_o quiet_a conscience_n at_o one_o time_n four_o let_v difference_n be_v put_v between_o our_o sinful_a sickness_n of_o indisposition_n to_o spiritual_a duty_n for_o which_o we_o shall_v be_v humble_v and_o god_n dispensation_n for_o the_o time_n partly_o chastise_v we_o with_o a_o less_o and_o more_o spare_a measure_n of_o ability_n for_o these_o duty_n and_o partly_o teach_v we_o thereby_o to_o make_v better_a use_n of_o christ_n office_n for_o pardon_n of_o sin_n for_o help_v and_o heal_v our_o infirmity_n than_o we_o have_v make_v five_o let_v difference_n be_v put_v between_o god_n part_n and_o satan_n the_o world_n and_o corrupt_a nature_n part_n and_o the_o part_n of_o the_o new_a creature_n god_n part_n be_v ever_o wise_a holy_a just_a and_o gracious_a tend_v to_o bring_v his_o child_n unto_o a_o good_a and_o better_a condition_n satan_n the_o world_n and_o the_o flesh_n or_o corrupt_a nature_n part_n be_v to_o procure_v and_o hold_v on_o and_o make_v worse_o an_o evil_a condition_n and_o the_o part_n of_o the_o new_a creature_n be_v variable_a as_o it_o fall_v forth_o in_o the_o battle_n against_o the_o flesh_n which_o lust_n against_o the_o spirit_n and_o it_o against_o the_o flesh_n so_o that_o neither_o of_o they_o have_v the_o victory_n always_o till_o the_o warfare_n be_v end_v and_o grace_n be_v crown_v with_o glory_n for_o and_o through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n these_o difference_n be_v observe_v the_o conscience_n may_v discern_v between_o a_o good_a or_o evil_a condition_n so_o much_o the_o better_o 6._o one_o and_o the_o same_o convert_n may_v observe_v in_o himself_o if_o not_o all_o yet_o the_o vicissitude_n of_o the_o most_o notable_a change_n of_o a_o spiritual_a condition_n as_o may_v be_v see_v in_o some_o especial_o of_o his_o minister_n of_o who_o exercise_n he_o be_v to_o make_v use_n for_o the_o consolation_n of_o his_o afflict_a people_n which_o minister_n may_v say_v with_o the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 1._o 6._o whether_o we_o be_v afflict_v it_o be_v for_o your_o consolation_n and_o salvation_n which_o be_v effectual_a in_o the_o endure_a of_o the_o same_o suffering_n which_o we_o also_o suffer_v or_o whether_o we_o be_v comfort_v it_o be_v for_o your_o consolation_n and_o salvation_n 7._o sundry_a convert_n may_v be_v diverse_o dispose_v and_o exercise_v about_o the_o same_o evil_a or_o spiritual_a disease_n for_o one_o under_o the_o observation_n of_o his_o evil_a case_n may_v wrestle_v against_o it_o and_o not_o call_v his_o own_o bless_a state_n in_o question_n another_o under_o the_o same_o disease_n may_v fall_v in_o question_n and_o doubt_n whether_o he_o who_o be_v in_o such_o a_o condition_n may_v be_v a_o true_a convert_n or_o not_o and_o his_o person_n in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n or_o not_o yea_o one_o and_o the_o same_o convert_n in_o the_o begin_n of_o his_o ill_a condition_n while_o he_o first_o enter_v in_o conflict_n with_o his_o evil_a condition_n may_v for_o a_o time_n look_v upon_o himself_o as_o a_o true_a convert_n notwithstanding_o of_o his_o present_a ill_a condition_n but_o afterward_o when_o he_o find_v his_o evil_a condition_n to_o remain_v and_o not_o likely_a to_o be_v remove_v he_o may_v fall_v in_o doubt_n about_o the_o state_n of_o his_o person_n whether_o he_o be_v a_o true_a convert_n or_o not_o in_o which_o case_n let_v he_o make_v use_n as_o be_v say_v in_o the_o former_a book_n 8._o the_o variety_n of_o change_n of_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n arise_v from_o the_o variety_n of_o the_o cause_n thereof_o as_o for_o example_n 1._o sometime_o in_o the_o warfare_n between_o the_o flesh_n and_o the_o spirit_n the_o new_a creature_n prevail_v sometime_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o both_o of_o they_o prevail_v sometime_o more_o sometime_o less_o whence_o vicissitude_n of_o change_n of_o condition_n can_v but_o follow_v 2._o sometime_o satan_n temptation_n set_v on_o in_o his_o assault_n more_o or_o less_o furious_o or_o more_o or_o less_o subtle_o do_v make_v diversity_n of_o condition_n as_o satan_n be_v more_o or_o less_o wise_o resist_v 3._o sometime_o the_o lord_n hide_v his_o countenance_n from_o his_o child_n more_o or_o less_o sometime_o in_o adversity_n sometime_o in_o outward_a prosperity_n as_o his_o wisdom_n find_v it_o meet_v for_o the_o welfare_n of_o his_o belove_a child_n 9_o sometime_o the_o conscience_n do_v discern_v a_o evil_a condition_n and_o do_v give_v forth_o a_o right_a sentence_n about_o it_o in_o which_o case_n let_v use_n be_v make_v of_o the_o ordinar_n remedy_n of_o sin_n and_o misery_n as_o 1._o let_v the_o afflict_a search_n into_o the_o cause_n which_o have_v procure_v his_o evil_a condition_n as_o the_o lord_n after_o prayer_n shall_v furnish_v light_n 2._o let_v he_o acknowledge_v his_o sin_n and_o ill_a deserve_n and_o the_o lord_n holy_a wise_a and_o righteous_a dispensation_n 3._o let_v he_o grow_v in_o humiliation_n and_o in_o diffidence_n of_o his_o own_o wisdom_n ability_n and_o righteousness_n 4._o let_v he_o renew_v the_o exercise_n of_o his_o faith_n in_o christ_n for_o pardon_n of_o sin_n for_o mortify_v the_o root_n of_o it_o and_o for_o let_v forth_o his_o help_a hand_n for_o ability_n to_o make_v he_o watch_v over_o his_o own_o heart_n and_o way_n and_o to_o bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n 10._o when_o the_o convert_v conscience_n fail_v in_o right_o judge_v of_o its_o own_o ill_a condition_n 1_o it_o either_o take_v a_o ill_a condition_n to_o be_v good_a and_o in_o this_o case_n it_o be_v silent_a and_o say_v nothing_o but_o lie_v secure_a and_o well_o please_v without_o cause_n or_o 2._o it_o judge_v a_o good_a condition_n to_o be_v altogether_o bad_a or_o at_o least_o not_o so_o good_a as_o it_o be_v indeed_o or_o 3._o it_o do_v not_o distinguish_v a_o good_a or_o ill_a condition_n simple_o from_o a_o condition_n partly_o good_a and_o partly_o evil_a or_o 4._o it_o stand_v in_o doubt_n what_o to_o judge_v of_o the_o man_n condition_n be_v uncertain_a what_o to_o pronounce_v of_o it_o till_o light_v dispel_v the_o mist_n and_o confusion_n wherein_o it_o lie_v for_o the_o time_n let_v we_o instance_n some_o case_n and_o example_n in_o every_o one_o of_o these_o four_o kind_n chap._n two_o wherein_o be_v handle_v the_o case_n of_o such_o as_o be_v fall_v from_o their_o first_o love_n and_o be_v well_o please_v in_o this_o case_n the_o first_o rank_n shall_v be_v of_o some_o case_n wherein_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o convert_n be_v deceive_v by_o judge_v the_o man_n evil_a condition_n to_o be_v good_a enough_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v sundry_a time_n that_o the_o renew_a man_n seem_v both_o to_o himself_o and_o other_o also_o to_o go_v on_o in_o bring_v forth_o external_a fruit_n of_o new_a obedience_n when_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n his_o love_n to_o christ_n be_v much_o abate_v and_o cool_v towards_o he_o in_o comparison_n of_o the_o fervency_n which_o in_o his_o first_o conversion_n he_o have_v whence_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o his_o work_n in_o his_o call_n be_v discharge_v without_o that_o eye_n and_o affection_n towards_o christ_n which_o sometime_o he_o carry_v towards_o he_o for_o in_o the_o begin_n of_o his_o conversion_n when_o remission_n of_o sin_n reconciliation_n with_o god_n and_o the_o bless_a change_n make_v in_o his_o state_n through_o christ_n be_v green_a and_o fresh_a in_o his_o present_a sense_n how_o dear_a christ_n be_v unto_o he_o can_v be_v express_v but_o this_o fervour_n ofttimes_o do_v cool_a when_o his_o wont_a estimation_n of_o christ_n be_v not_o entertain_v as_o appear_v in_o the_o galatian_n who_o at_o their_o conversion_n be_v carry_v with_o such_o a_o measure_n of_o love_n towards_o christ_n that_o if_o it_o have_v be_v possible_a they_o will_v have_v pluck_v out_o their_o own_o eye_n and_o give_v they_o to_o the_o apostle_n paul_n for_o christ_n cause_n gal._n 4._o 15._o and_o yet_o this_o love_n do_v soon_o cool_a both_o towards_o christ_n and_o the_o apostle_n it_o come_v to_o pass_v also_o ofttimes_o that_o the_o renew_a man_n content_v himself_o with_o the_o seal_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o the_o consolation_n which_o once_o he_o feel_v resolve_v to_o go_v on_o in_o the_o discharge_n of_o christian_a duty_n in_o his_o call_n and_o either_o do_v not_o observe_v this_o cool_n of_o his_o love_n to_o christ_n or_o lay_v it_o not_o to_o heart_n but_o please_v himself_o in_o this_o condition_n as_o sufficient_a to_o carry_v a_o convert_a man_n to_o heaven_n and_o so_o usual_o three_o fault_n do_v concur_v in_o this_o sickness_n the_o first_o be_v
a_o notable_a defection_n from_o aim_v at_o the_o measure_n feel_v in_o his_o first_o love_n at_o his_o conversion_n for_o we_o speak_v not_o here_o of_o daily_a distemper_n which_o the_o convert_n do_v mark_n and_o mourn_v for_o and_o be_v about_o to_o have_v heal_v by_o bring_v his_o wound_n unto_o christ_n to_o be_v cure_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n and_o repentance_n daily_o the_o second_o be_v the_o not_o observe_v of_o this_o decay_n of_o love_n or_o the_o man_n ignorance_n of_o his_o duty_n to_o entertain_v communion_n with_o christ_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o daily_a sin_n want_n and_o wound_n for_o the_o remove_n and_o cure_v whereof_o christ_n be_v to_o be_v love_v daily_o no_o less_o than_o at_o the_o man_n his_o first_o conversion_n the_o three_o be_v the_o man_n be_v well_o please_v with_o this_o condition_n so_o long_o as_o his_o conversation_n be_v blameless_a whereof_o we_o have_v a_o instance_n in_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o ephesian_n rev._n 2._o who_o labour_n in_o the_o work_n of_o the_o lord_n zeal_n against_o hypocrite_n patience_n in_o trouble_n for_o christ_n cause_n be_v commend_v by_o christ._n but_o he_o reprove_v they_o first_o because_o they_o have_v leave_v their_o first_o love_n and_o do_v not_o only_o come_v short_a of_o the_o measure_n of_o their_o first_o love_n but_o do_v not_o lay_v to_o heart_n this_o sin_n do_v not_o repent_v it_o or_o take_v course_n to_o have_v that_o measure_n recover_v thou_o have_v leave_v or_o lay_v down_o thy_o first_o love_n that_o be_v 1._o thou_o have_v remit_v and_o come_v short_a of_o that_o measure_n of_o love_n which_o former_o thou_o have_v 2._o thou_o have_v not_o be_v displease_v with_o thyself_o in_o this_o thy_o defection_n 3._o thou_o have_v lay_v aside_o the_o care_n of_o recover_v the_o measure_n of_o thy_o former_a love_n this_o condition_n be_v very_o dangerous_a as_o be_v manifest_a in_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o galatian_n who_o fall_v from_o their_o first_o love_n do_v cast_v themselves_o open_a to_o superstition_n and_o error_n and_o in_o danger_n to_o be_v cut_v off_o from_o christ_n by_o their_o defection_n from_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o gospel_n once_o receive_v the_o reason_n for_o which_o we_o say_v this_o defection_n in_o love_n be_v dangerous_a be_v three_o the_o first_o be_v this_o the_o great_a measure_n of_o love_n to_o christ_n and_o rejoice_v in_o he_o be_v less_o than_o his_o excellency_n and_o merit_n at_o our_o hand_n do_v deserve_v if_o therefore_o we_o shall_v slide_v from_o our_o duty_n in_o aim_v to_o hold_v up_o this_o measure_n of_o love_n to_o he_o which_o we_o have_v once_o attain_v and_o cease_v to_o grow_v therein_o because_o his_o new_a mercy_n be_v daily_o let_v forth_o upon_o we_o from_o day_n to_o day_n in_o effect_n we_o judge_v our_o first_o love_n have_v be_v too_o too_o vehement_a and_o so_o christ_n be_v light_o esteem_v of_o as_o if_o he_o be_v not_o still_o to_o be_v love_v withal_o our_o mind_n heart_n and_o strength_n the_o next_o reason_n be_v this_o when_o love_n to_o christ_n to_o his_o ordinance_n and_o sanctify_a one_o begin_v to_o relent_v and_o cool_v incontinent_a the_o external_a exercise_n of_o religion_n and_o righteousness_n begin_v to_o fall_v short_a of_o this_o principle_n of_o love_n and_o to_o go_v on_o more_o and_o more_o slow_o and_o so_o piece_n and_o piece_n to_o decay_v for_o as_o when_o a_o tree_n be_v smite_v in_o the_o root_n it_o may_v retain_v for_o a_o time_n green_a leaf_n but_o after_o a_o time_n it_o wither_v and_o neither_o fear_n ripe_a fruit_n nor_o leaf_n so_o also_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o plety_n and_o righteousness_n if_o love_n towards_o god_n our_o redeemer_n and_o delection_n in_o his_o service_n and_o obedience_n inward_o be_v diminish_v it_o may_v ready_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o the_o very_a outward_a work_n yea_o and_o the_o profession_n of_o duty_n due_a to_o christ_n be_v take_v away_o also_o and_o this_o be_v the_o judgement_n wherewith_o christ_n do_v threaten_v ephesus_n i_o will_v come_v upon_o thou_o and_o remove_v thy_o candlestick_n out_o of_o his_o place_n except_o thou_o repent_v rev._n 2._o 5._o the_o three_o reason_n be_v because_o christ_n who_o be_v altogether_o lovely_a and_o love_v itself_o the_o very_a son_n of_o the_o father_n love_n be_v a_o jealous_a god_n and_o can_v long_o endure_v not_o to_o be_v meet_v with_o love_n from_o they_o to_o who_o he_o have_v manifest_v his_o love_n therefore_o he_o do_v make_v haste_n to_o correct_v this_o slight_n of_o his_o love_n and_o to_o manifest_v his_o wrath_n against_o these_o that_o lie_v still_o well_o please_v with_o themselves_o under_o this_o condition_n i_o will_v come_v unto_o thou_o quick_o say_v he_o and_o remove_v thy_o candlestick_n rev._n 2._o 5._o 2._o that_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n who_o be_v lie_v in_o this_o condition_n or_o be_v decline_v from_o his_o former_a measure_n of_o love_n may_v discharge_v its_o duty_n more_o easy_o and_o solid_o it_o be_v needful_a that_o the_o man_n be_v convince_v of_o his_o fault_n first_o consider_v how_o reasonable_a it_o be_v that_o he_o shall_v return_v to_o his_o first_o love_n or_o former_o feel_v measure_n of_o it_o for_o the_o forgiveness_n of_o his_o manifold_a sin_n wherein_o he_o lie_v before_o his_o conversion_n for_o the_o translate_n of_o he_o from_o darkness_n to_o the_o glorious_a light_n of_o christ_n kingdom_n shall_v never_o be_v forget_v the_o proof_n which_o he_o have_v get_v by_o his_o conversion_n that_o christ_n have_v love_v he_o and_o give_v himself_o for_o he_o shall_v be_v always_o call_v to_o mind_n with_o hearty_a affection_n the_o great_a need_n of_o christ_n wherein_o he_o stand_v for_o renew_a pardon_n of_o sin_n for_o furnish_v he_o with_o his_o spirit_n to_o mortify_v the_o deed_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o to_o bring_v forth_o more_o ripe_a and_o abundant_a fruit_n of_o new_a obedience_n shall_v bind_v he_o to_o abide_v and_o grow_v in_o his_o love_n second_o let_v he_o consider_v how_o useful_a and_o profitable_a unto_o we_o be_v fresh_a green_a and_o grow_a love_n unto_o he_o for_o love_v to_o he_o make_v we_o frequent_o to_o think_v of_o he_o frequent_o with_o delight_n to_o speak_v of_o he_o to_o seek_v after_o more_o and_o more_o near-communion_n with_o he_o to_o have_v our_o conversation_n with_o he_o in_o heaven_n where_o he_o sit_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o father_n and_o to_o live_v in_o heaven_n where_o our_o love_n be_v more_o than_o where_o we_o sojourn_v in_o this_o world_n love_n make_v we_o love_v what_o he_o love_v and_o hate_v what_o he_o hate_v love_n sharpen_v our_o desire_n after_o god_n in_o christ_n kindle_v and_o enlarge_v our_o affection_n towards_o he_o as_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o 63._o psalm_n do_v make_v evident_a and_o if_o the_o lord_n shall_v seem_v to_o withdraw_v himself_o love_n make_v the_o true_a convert_n follow_v hard_o after_o he_o ps._n 63._o 8._o love_n make_v â—old_a to_o encounter_v all_o difficulty_n and_o trouble_n which_o may_v meet_v 〈◊〉_d in_o the_o course_n of_o follow_v after_o he_o much_o water_n can_v quench_v love_n in_o god_n service_n love_n keep_v a_o man_n 〈…〉_z strong_a and_o stout_a against_o his_o enemy_n in_o 〈…〉_z patient_a in_o profession_n sincere_a in_o pursue_v duty_n 〈…〉_z all_o condition_n submissive_a and_o after_o evidence_v of_o his_o affection_n with_o the_o psalmist_n ps._n 116._o 12._o to_o â—ay_n with_o the_o same_o psalmist_n what_o shall_v i_o render_v to_o the_o lord_n for_o all_o his_o benefit_n towards_o i_o ps._n 116._o 12._o three_o 〈…〉_z convert_v who_o be_v begin_v to_o cool_v in_o his_o love_n to_o christ_n 〈◊〉_d to_o remembrance_n what_o a_o felicity_n he_o feel_v when_o he_o entertain_v love_n to_o christ_n when_o the_o love_a kindness_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v better_a to_o he_o then_o his_o life_n and_o sin_n be_v more_o formidable_a than_o death_n when_o god_n commandment_n be_v not_o grievous_a but_o the_o joy_n of_o his_o heart_n when_o god_n word_n season_v and_o sanctify_v his_o bitter_a affliction_n four_o let_v he_o consider_v at_o what_o a_o loss_n he_o be_v of_o many_o spiritual_a comfort_n whereof_o he_o have_v deprive_v himself_o and_o in_o how_o many_o sin_n of_o omission_n at_o least_o he_o have_v fall_v since_o his_o decline_v from_o his_o first_o love_n and_o what_o misery_n he_o have_v draw_v upon_o his_o own_o spirit_n at_o least_o if_o not_o also_o temporal_a chastisement_n join_v therewith_o and_o after_o comparison_n of_o his_o condition_n when_o his_o love_n be_v servant_n with_o his_o present_a condition_n since_o his_o fall_n from_o his_o sometime-measure_n of_o love_n let_v he_o humble_v himself_o before_o christ_n and_o fly_v in_o unto_o his_o rich_a
grace_n as_o a_o true_a penitent_a and_o let_v the_o fear_n of_o wrath_n in_o case_n he_o set_v not_o himself_o to_o recover_v what_o he_o have_v lose_v hold_v he_o up_o to_o his_o duty_n for_o this_o be_v the_o remedy_n which_o christ_n himself_o do_v prescribe_v rev._n 2._o 5._o 7._o chap._n iii_o concern_v the_o convert_n sinful_a connive_n at_o and_o tolerate_v of_o the_o error_n and_o transgression_n of_o other_o the_o law_n of_o love_n towards_o god_n and_o our_o neighbour_n lay_v a_o tie_n on_o we_o to_o procure_v and_o promove_v the_o welfare_n and_o good_a of_o all_o man_n according_a to_o our_o place_n and_o power_n and_o to_o hinder_v the_o provocation_n of_o god_n and_o sin_n of_o our_o neighbour_n according_a to_o our_o place_n and_o power_n and_o to_o this_o end_n the_o lord_n have_v say_v levit._n 19_o 17._o thou_o shall_v not_o hate_v thy_o brother_n in_o thy_o heart_n thou_o shall_v in_o any_o wise_a rebuke_n thy_o neighbour_n and_o not_o suffer_v sin_n upon_o he_o â—ains_n answer_v to_o god_n say_v be_o i_o my_o brother_n keeper_n do_v not_o beseem_v the_o child_n of_o god_n and_o yet_o some_o of_o the_o lord_n renew_v child_n in_o some_o case_n do_v seem_v to_o themselves_o to_o have_v do_v their_o duty_n sufficient_o if_o they_o for_o themselves_o profess_v the_o truth_n and_o do_v in_o their_o own_o personal_a carriage_n what_o they_o conceive_v to_o be_v right_a albeit_o they_o toleart_n other_o to_o profess_v teach_v and_o practice_v what_o be_v false_a and_o dangerous_a and_o pernicious_a to_o themselves_o and_o other_o this_o fault_n may_v befall_v not_o only_a magistrate_n and_o pastor_n parent_n and_o master_n of_o family_n child_n and_o servant_n but_o also_o be_v find_v in_o all_o and_o every_o one_o who_o do_v defend_v or_o excuse_v such_o a_o ungodly_a and_o dangerous_a toleration_n which_o may_v provoke_v god_n to_o wrath_n and_o ensnare_v many_o in_o a_o course_n of_o sin_n the_o pretence_n excuse_n and_o deceit_n whereby_o man_n delude_v themselves_o in_o this_o sin_n be_v the_o same_o which_o the_o patron_n of_o loose_a and_o licentious_a toleration_n of_o every_o error_n in_o religion_n do_v make_v use_n of_o to_o wit_n that_o man_n conscience_n must_v be_v free_a in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o religion_n and_o no_o way_n be_v urge_v to_o use_v all_o mean_n which_o may_v give_v they_o right_a information_n and_o restrain_v their_o expression_n and_o practice_n which_o may_v infect_v pervert_v or_o ensnare_v other_o among_o who_o they_o live_v for_o say_v they_o god_n people_n must_v be_v a_o willing_a people_n and_o god_n only_o be_v lord_n of_o the_o conscience_n and_o a_o curb_v of_o man_n profession_n and_o practice_n serve_v not_o to_o make_v man_n religious_a but_o hypocrite_n also_o and_o such_o like_a other_o pretence_n but_o no_o excuse_n of_o this_o sort_n can_v just_o hinder_v any_o who_o be_v in_o any_o place_n of_o authority_n or_o power_n or_o relation_n to_o be_v active_a or_o concur_v to_o extinguish_v the_o incendiary_n fire_v which_o may_v devour_v the_o house_n of_o god_n and_o kingdom_n wherein_o they_o live_v for_o whosoever_o have_v power_n over_o other_o and_o do_v not_o put_v forth_o their_o power_n to_o curb_v and_o repress_v those_o who_o lie_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o other_o do_v not_o only_o not_o impede_fw-la the_o grow_a contagion_n and_o infection_n of_o the_o body_n wherein_o they_o live_v but_o also_o in_o effect_n do_v countenance_n protect_v and_o promove_v the_o spread_a of_o the_o contagion_n of_o error_n &_o wickedness_n which_o they_o do_v tolerat_a yea_o and_o private_a person_n who_o do_v not_o lament_v the_o sin_n of_o such_o as_o do_v destroy_v themselves_o and_o infect_v other_o and_o do_v not_o mourn_v for_o the_o sin_n of_o they_o also_o who_o shall_v repress_v the_o contagion_n do_v make_v themselves_o accessary_a to_o these_o spread_a evil_n it_o be_v true_a many_o excuse_n may_v here_o be_v allege_v which_o we_o leave_v to_o those_o who_o have_v answer_v the_o objection_n of_o ungodly_a toleration_n but_o the_o truth_n be_v the_o fear_n of_o worldly_a inconvenience_n ofttimes_o do_v more_o prevail_v for_o give_v way_n to_o licentious_a toleration_n than_o the_o fear_n of_o sin_n and_o wrath_n of_o god_n do_v prevail_v for_o discharge_v of_o duty_n this_o be_v the_o sin_n of_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n which_o do_v not_o take_v order_n with_o and_o repress_v the_o seducer_n of_o the_o lord_n people_n and_o their_o follower_n within_o their_o jurisdiction_n rev._n 2._o 14_o 15._o i_o have_v a_o few_o thing_n against_o thou_o because_o thou_o have_v there_o they_o that_o hold_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n who_o teach_v balack_n to_o cast_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n to_o eat_v thing_n sacrifice_v to_o idol_n and_o to_o commit_v fornication_n so_o have_v thou_o also_o they_o that_o hold_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_n which_o thing_n i_o hate_v this_o be_v the_o sin_n which_o christ_n do_v reprehend_v in_o the_o church_n of_o thyatira_n rev._n 2._o 20._o i_o have_v a_o few_o thing_n against_o thou_o because_o thou_o suffer_v that_o woman_n jesabel_n which_o call_v herself_o a_o prophetess_n to_o teach_v and_o seduce_v my_o servant_n to_o commit_v fornication_n and_o to_o eat_v thing_n sacrifice_v to_o idol_n 2._o for_o remedy_n against_o this_o evil_a 1._o let_v we_o verse_n ourselves_o well_o in_o the_o law_n of_o the_o lord_n reveal_v in_o holy_a scripture_n that_o we_o may_v know_v well_o what_o be_v the_o duty_n which_o god_n require_v of_o every_o man_n in_o his_o station_n and_o what_o vice_n he_o forbid_v lest_o we_o mistake_v virtue_n for_o a_o vice_n or_o vice_n for_o a_o virtue_n 2._o let_v we_o beware_v of_o rash_a censure_v and_o licentious_a carp_n at_o man_n infirmity_n as_o the_o apostle_n james_n give_v commandment_n my_o brethren_n be_v not_o many_o master_n know_v that_o we_o shall_v receive_v the_o great_a condemnation_n for_o in_o many_o thing_n we_o offend_v all_o 3._o let_v we_o earnest_o contend_v for_o the_o faith_n which_o be_v once_o deliver_v to_o the_o saint_n jude_n v_o 3._o lest_o seducer_n draw_v away_o the_o lord_n people_n from_o the_o truth_n of_o christ._n 4._o let_v every_o one_o consider_v his_o station_n place_n and_o power_n give_v to_o he_o and_o prudent_o go_v about_o the_o amend_v of_o other_o man_n fault_n and_o his_o own_o also_o for_o otherways_o a_o good_a duty_n may_v be_v mar_v in_o a_o man_n hand_n by_o imprudent_a manage_n thereof_o 5._o let_v a_o man_n resolve_v to_o meet_v with_o difficulty_n in_o curb_v false_a doctrine_n and_o scandalous_a practice_n and_o as_o a_o wise_a wariour_a to_o behave_v himself_o so_o as_o he_o may_v obtain_v the_o promise_n which_o christ_n have_v promise_v to_o the_o victorious_a rev._n 2._o 17._o 26_o 27._o for_o it_o be_v much_o better_a to_o displease_v man_n for_o his_o good_a and_o other_o then_o to_o displease_v christ_n and_o make_v ourselves_o partaker_n of_o other_o man_n sin_n and_o judgement_n and_o the_o true_a convert_n will_v easy_o make_v the_o choice_n chap._n iu._n concern_v the_o case_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n fall_v asleep_a in_o carnal_a security_n under_o guilâ—tnesse_n of_o fleshly_a pollution_n and_o dream_v himself_o to_o be_v in_o no_o ill_a condition_n sometime_o the_o flesh_n so_o far_o prevail_v against_o the_o renew_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o convert_n that_o not_o only_o they_o be_v overtake_v in_o a_o fault_n gal._n 6._o 1._o but_o also_o be_v as_o it_o be_v take_v captive_a and_o lead_v away_o for_o a_o time_n by_o the_o lustâ—_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o nearby_o recall_v unto_o the_o servitude_n of_o some_o wicked_a concupiscence_n in_o which_o condition_n it_o be_v possible_a they_o lie_v sleep_v a_o long_a time_n till_o god_n waken_v they_o out_o of_o their_o deadly_a lethargy_n and_o this_o condition_n alas_o be_v very_o oft_o to_o be_v find_v to_o the_o dishonour_n of_o christian_a profession_n in_o these_o that_o have_v begin_v to_o live_v blameless_o and_o have_v fall_v back_o to_o the_o filthy_a puddle_n of_o their_o old_a conversation_n whereby_o they_o draw_v upon_o themselves_o and_o their_o family_n god_n wrath_n and_o sad_a â—udgments_n of_o this_o disease_n we_o find_v there_o be_v not_o a_o few_o to_o be_v find_v in_o corinth_n 2_o cor._n 12._o 20_o 21._o 2._o the_o cause_n of_o this_o fearful_a condition_n be_v manifold_a and_o can_v easy_o be_v condescend_v upon_o for_o many_o defect_n and_o wicked_a motion_n of_o the_o heart_n do_v usual_o concur_v with_o the_o neglect_n of_o duty_n and_o commission_n of_o actual_a sin_n against_o the_o diâ—â—ction_n of_o the_o conscience_n at_o least_o without_o the_o remorse_n of_o conscience_n and_o true_a repentance_n before_o this_o fearful_a condition_n fix_v itself_o on_o a_o man_n
let_v the_o convert_v thus_o mistake_v after_o his_o experience_n feel_v that_o he_o have_v be_v carnal_o confident_a not_o be_v discourage_v as_o if_o his_o confidence_n which_o he_o seem_v to_o have_v place_v on_o god_n be_v altogether_o vain_a and_o in_o no_o degree_n spiritual_a but_o let_v he_o first_o be_v humble_v before_o god_n and_o submit_v himself_o to_o the_o lord_n rod_n let_v he_o acknowledge_v the_o wisdom_n justice_n and_o mercy_n of_o god_n who_o have_v remove_v this_o prop_n of_o carnal_a confidence_n and_o reduce_v he_o from_o go_v astray_o to_o depend_v more_o on_o god_n than_o he_o have_v do_v 2._o let_v he_o strengthen_v his_o faith_n in_o christ_n according_a to_o the_o renor_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o that_o so_o much_o the_o more_o as_o he_o find_v his_o own_o unrighteousness_n in_o follow_v and_o rely_v on_o creature-comfort_n to_o have_v be_v great_a 3._o let_v he_o set_v his_o affection_n upon_o thing_n spiritual_a which_o be_v above_o the_o earth_n and_o to_o be_v find_v in_o jesus_n christ_n who_o be_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o father_n col._n 3._o 1._o 23._o and_o to_o loose_v his_o estimation_n and_o affection_n from_o these_o thing_n that_o be_v on_o earth_n 4._o because_o this_o sickness_n be_v not_o well_o observe_v except_o in_o the_o time_n of_o adversity_n let_v the_o afflict_a person_n approve_v himself_o in_o the_o point_n of_o sincerity_n of_o adherence_n unto_o god_n by_o his_o trust_n in_o god_n now_o when_o he_o want_v mean_n and_o creature-comfort_n as_o job_n do_v who_o in_o this_o condition_n bless_v god_n for_o the_o give_v of_o the_o benefit_n and_o bless_a god_n at_o the_o remove_n of_o they_o from_o he_o job._n 1._o 21._o for_o by_o so_o do_v he_o shall_v learn_v both_o to_o have_v and_o want_v and_o in_o every_o condition_n to_o be_v content_a as_o the_o apostle_n be_v teach_v phil_n 4._o 12._o and_o this_o be_v for_o the_o first_o sort_n of_o carnal_a confidence_n the_o other_o sort_n of_o carnal_a confidence_n be_v that_o which_o too_o much_o lean_v to_o some_o apparent_a measure_n of_o the_o operation_n and_o fruit_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n observe_v by_o the_o convert_n in_o himself_o and_o this_o sickness_n may_v be_v take_v up_o and_o perceive_v chief_o by_o comparison_n of_o the_o convert_v strong_a confidence_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n towards_o he_o so_o long_o as_o he_o can_v find_v evidencâ—_n sign_n of_o his_o regeneration_n and_o work_v of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n 〈◊〉_d himself_o with_o â—is_n weak_a confidence_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n towards_o he_o under_o the_o cloud_n of_o descrtion_n or_o under_o some_o powerful_a temptation_n when_o these_o evident_a sign_n of_o his_o conversion_n be_v darken_v or_o do_v not_o appear_v so_o clear_o unto_o himself_o as_o they_o do_v 〈◊〉_d in_o which_o case_n his_o confidence_n be_v great_o weaken_v and_o his_o faith_n not_o a_o little_a shake_v with_o doubt_v in_o both_o the_o one_o and_o the_o other_o condition_n the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n stand_v fix_v and_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n remain_v the_o same_o and_o the_o convert_v still_o adher_v to_o the_o covenant_n and_o claim_v interest_n in_o christ_n more_o or_o less_o confident_a whence_o come_v then_o this_o difference_n between_o his_o former_a confidence_n which_o be_v strong_a and_o his_o weak_a confidence_n now_o in_o the_o change_n of_o his_o case_n be_v bring_v low_a certain_o it_o proceed_v from_o the_o smite_v of_o the_o pillar_n whereupon_o his_o former_a confidence_n be_v too_o much_o fix_v for_o whensoever_o the_o mist_n be_v clear_v up_o and_o he_o find_v the_o livelynesse_n of_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n in_o himself_o his_o confidence_n convalesce_v and_o return_n to_o it_o be_v former_a strength_n as_o it_o seem_v to_o he_o and_o when_o his_o grace_n be_v darken_v he_o fall_v in_o a_o languish_a weakness_n of_o faith_n this_o sickness_n be_v so_o frequent_o incident_a to_o the_o saint_n that_o few_o shall_v be_v find_v who_o be_v not_o again_o and_o again_o overtake_v in_o it_o for_o how_o few_o be_v they_o who_o be_v not_o much_o more_o confident_a when_o they_o find_v a_o heart_n free_o pour_v forth_o in_o prayer_n when_o they_o enjoy_v the_o peace_n of_o god_n in_o their_o heart_n when_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v shed_v abroad_o in_o their_o heart_n when_o they_o find_v the_o consolation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n when_o they_o observe_v the_o â—ruits_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o themselves_o when_o the_o candle_n of_o the_o lord_n shine_v in_o their_o soul_n and_o the_o token_n of_o god_n savour_n towards_o they_o be_v manifest_a and_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n when_o they_o find_v their_o spiritual_a condition_n change_v when_o darkness_n fall_v on_o their_o spirit_n when_o they_o find_v themselves_o unfit_a for_o worship_n and_o unable_a to_o do_v service_n but_o most_o of_o all_o when_o they_o perceive_v token_n of_o fatherly_a wrath_n against_o they_o superadd_v unto_o the_o foresay_a evil_n in_o this_o case_n who_o be_v he_o that_o beside_o the_o inevitable_a perturbation_n of_o mind_n incident_a to_o those_o who_o be_v strong_a in_o faith_n do_v not_o find_v a_o diminution_n of_o his_o former_a confidence_n and_o a_o conflict_n with_o temptation_n fear_n doubt_n and_o difficulty_n which_o diminution_n and_o abate_v of_o his_o confidence_n in_o his_o trial_n and_o inward_a exercise_n do_v evident_o prove_v that_o in_o his_o best_a condition_n he_o have_v lay_v too_o much_o weight_n upon_o on_o the_o mutable_a disposition_n of_o his_o soul_n and_o have_v not_o so_o stucken_v to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n grace_n through_o jesus_n as_o become_v he_o 2._o that_o this_o sickness_n may_v be_v the_o more_o easy_o clear_v and_o cure_v it_o be_v expedient_a to_o answer_v some_o question_n which_o be_v discuss_v may_v inform_v and_o edify_v the_o afflict_a question_v 1_o the_o first_o question_n which_o the_o afflict_a may_v propound_v be_v this_o see_v the_o sign_n of_o god_n favour_n manifest_v in_o the_o bestow_n and_o continue_v of_o common_a benefit_n and_o gift_n outward_a and_o inward_a do_v certain_o serve_v to_o confirm_v a_o man_n faith_n in_o god_n be_v it_o not_o very_o reasonable_a to_o say_v that_o the_o sign_n of_o god_n wrath_n manifest_v in_o the_o remove_n of_o those_o benefit_n do_v certain_o serve_v to_o debilitat_fw-la and_o weaken_v a_o man_n faith_n ans._n 1._o sign_n of_o god_n favour_n and_o sign_n of_o god_n wrath_n be_v not_o inconsistent_a because_o god_n can_v carry_v love_n and_o favour_n to_o a_o man_n and_o be_v angry_a at_o he_o also_o for_o the_o present_a ill_a disposition_n wherein_o he_o be_v for_o love_n and_o fatherly_a wrath_n be_v not_o opposite_a and_o inconsistent_a but_o love_n and_o hatred_n be_v inconsistent_a 2._o let_v it_o be_v grant_v that_o any_o sign_n whatsoever_o of_o god_n favour_n may_v be_v make_v use_n of_o by_o the_o convert_n for_o strengthen_v of_o his_o faith_n yet_o it_o must_v not_o be_v grant_v that_o the_o take_v away_o of_o those_o sign_n of_o favour_n shall_v be_v make_v use_n of_o for_o weaken_v of_o a_o man_n faith_n for_o many_o thing_n may_v encourage_v a_o man_n to_o do_v his_o duty_n which_o be_v remove_v must_v not_o discourage_v he_o or_o just_o hinder_v he_o to_o do_v his_o duty_n 3._o there_o be_v a_o great_a difference_n between_o the_o man_n who_o never_o find_v any_o other_o sign_n of_o god_n favour_n beside_o prosperity_n in_o common_a benefit_n and_o the_o man_n who_o beside_o common_a benefit_n have_v feel_v a_o work_n of_o grace_n upon_o his_o spirit_n bring_v he_o unto_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o chase_v he_o to_o christ_n and_o make_v he_o to_o take_v on_o his_o yoke_n the_o first_o sort_n of_o man_n can_v neither_o from_o the_o have_v nor_o want_v or_o removal_n of_o common_a benefit_n conclude_v eh_n be_v love_v or_o hate_v for_o so_o be_v we_o teach_v eccles._n 9_o 1_o 2_o no_o man_n know_v either_o love_n or_o hatred_n by_o all_o that_o be_v before_o he_o all_o thing_n come_v alike_o to_o all_o etc._n etc._n but_o a_o man_n of_o this_o sort_n have_v reason_n to_o judge_v that_o the_o send_n on_o he_o adversity_n and_o waken_n of_o he_o out_o of_o a_o flâ—shly_a and_o deadly_a security_n do_v speak_v more_o of_o god_n favour_n to_o he_o than_o his_o prosperity_n do_v and_o this_o other_o sort_n of_o man_n who_o have_v feel_v a_o work_n of_o special_a grace_n on_o their_o heart_n may_v make_v use_n both_o of_o their_o prosperity_n and_o adversity_n for_o confirmation_n of_o their_o faith_n 4._o put_v case_n that_o a_o convert_n chase_v unto_o christ_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o resolve_v to_o bear_v christ_n yoke_n upon_o he_o shall_v find_v common_a benefit_n take_v back_o
seal_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o promise_n ephes._n 1._o 11._o as_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o prove_v that_o wholesome_a water_n give_v to_o a_o feaver-sick_a person_n be_v not_o a_o wholesome_a drink_n because_o the_o cool_a refreshment_n by_o it_o endure_v but_o a_o short_a while_n so_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o prove_v that_o consolation_n and_o joy_n give_v to_o a_o sorrowful_a sinner_n seek_v favour_n through_o christ_n be_v not_o solid_a and_o true_a joy_n because_o it_o stay_v but_o a_o short_a while_n it_o be_v sufficient_a that_o it_o have_v stay_v so_o long_o as_o be_v needful_a for_o after_o the_o word_n of_o promise_n be_v believe_v the_o joy_n be_v send_v to_o ease_v the_o afflict_a soul_n present_a grief_n and_o to_o give_v he_o earnest_n that_o full_a and_o last_a joy_n shall_v be_v give_v in_o due_a time_n unto_o he_o when_o the_o messenger_n have_v do_v his_o commission_n let_v he_o return_v to_o his_o master_n as_o the_o sheet_n let_v down_o in_o the_o vision_n from_o heaven_n to_o peter_n after_o it_o have_v serve_v for_o peter_n instruction_n it_o be_v take_v up_o to_o heaven_n again_o act._n 10._o the_o spouse_n in_o the_o canticle_n know_v by_o experience_n that_o her_o spiritual_a joy_n will_v not_o last_v long_o and_o therefore_o charge_v the_o daughter_n of_o jerusalem_n that_o they_o waken_v not_o she_o belove_v till_o he_o please_v 5._o another_o objection_n be_v this_o if_o my_o joy_n have_v be_v solid_a say_v the_o afflict_a it_o shall_v have_v bring_v forth_o better_a fruit_n than_o it_o have_v do_v but_o joy_n spiritual_a as_o i_o then_o call_v it_o do_v degenerate_a into_o a_o carnal_a security_n and_o i_o be_v not_o the_o more_o holy_a by_o it_o to_o which_o objection_n the_o answer_n may_v be_v this_o the_o blame_n of_o this_o be_v not_o to_o be_v lay_v on_o spiritual_a joy_n but_o upon_o the_o abuse_n of_o this_o mercy_n by_o ingratitude_n for_o this_o gracious_a blink_n of_o feel_a favour_n negligence_n in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n to_o entertain_v this_o sense_n by_o sleepiness_n of_o conscience_n and_o other_o sin_n and_o namely_o the_o lay_v too_o much_o weight_n upon_o this_o sense_n and_o not_o fix_v the_o heart_n by_o so_o much_o more_o upon_o the_o word_n of_o promise_n when_o feel_v consolation_n may_v be_v withdraw_v be_v a_o just_a cause_n for_o spiritual_a joy_n be_v not_o give_v to_o any_o to_o build_v upon_o its_o continuance_n but_o to_o make_v the_o convert_n hold_v the_o confirm_a word_n of_o promise_n so_o much_o the_o fast_o when_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n comfortable_a feeling_n be_v withdraw_v the_o spouse_n in_o the_o canticle_n after_o a_o feast_n of_o this_o kind_n fall_v a_o sleep_n and_o give_v slight_a entertain_v to_o the_o bridegroom_n when_o call_v upon_o by_o his_o word_n for_o which_o she_o be_v chastise_v by_o his_o withdraw_n of_o his_o comfortable_a presence_n cant._n 5._o 1_o 2_o 3._o etc._n etc._n but_o let_v we_o put_v the_o case_n that_o the_o feel_v joy_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v not_o abuse_v yet_o be_v it_o not_o unusual_a for_o god_n to_o withdraw_v consolation_n and_o to_o send_v trouble_n and_o anguish_n on_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o dear_a child_n to_o try_v his_o faith_n and_o train_n he_o on_o to_o hold_v the_o word_n of_o his_o grace_n in_o the_o hard_a condition_n he_o can_v be_v into_o as_o he_o do_v exercise_n job_n and_o jeremie_n the_o prophet_n jer._n 20._o and_o the_o psalmist_n ps._n 77._o in_o which_o condition_n to_o suspect_v that_o the_o consolation_n and_o joy_n of_o the_o spirit_n speak_v to_o the_o heart_n by_o his_o word_n be_v not_o his_o gracious_a operation_n or_o be_v a_o delusion_n can_v but_o exceed_o grieve_v the_o lord_n and_o give_v he_o cause_n to_o chastise_v this_o suspicion_n with_o desertion_n 6._o but_o how_o may_v i_o know_v say_v the_o afflict_a that_o my_o joy_n be_v solid_a and_o be_v indeed_o the_o gracious_a operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n for_o answer_v 1._o if_o this_o joy_n be_v give_v to_o he_o when_o or_o after_o he_o be_v lament_v his_o sin_n and_o fear_v wrath_n deserve_v and_o fly_v unto_o christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n he_o have_v reason_n to_o reckon_v that_o joy_n to_o be_v such_o as_o the_o word_n of_o the_o gospel_n do_v promise_n and_o approve_v 2._o if_o during_o the_o time_n of_o his_o sweet_a feel_n of_o peace_n and_o joy_n through_o christ_n he_o find_v his_o faith_n in_o god_n and_o love_n to_o christ_n confirm_v and_o strengthen_v if_o the_o word_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v in_o more_o estimation_n with_o he_o if_o his_o heart_n be_v enlarge_v to_o bless_v praise_n and_o thank_v god_n for_o manifest_v himself_o in_o christ_n reconcile_v if_o the_o purpose_n of_o follow_v after_o holiness_n be_v renew_v in_o he_o he_o have_v no_o reason_n to_o suspect_v his_o joy_n and_o comfort_n 3._o if_o after_o the_o remove_n of_o this_o sweet_a feeling_n he_o be_v go_v on_o in_o the_o study_n of_o holiness_n believe_v in_o christ_n how_o heavy_a in_o heart_n soever_o he_o may_v be_v by_o affliction_n and_o tentation_n he_o may_v be_v assure_v his_o sometime_o feel_a joy_n of_o the_o lord_n spirit_n be_v solid_a and_o his_o present_a suspicion_n thereof_o to_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o his_o infirmity_n and_o of_o a_o tentation_n from_o satan_n this_o be_v the_o way_n how_o the_o psalmist_n wrestle_v out_o of_o his_o sad_a condition_n ps._n 77._o chap._n fourteen_o of_o the_o convert_n suspect_v that_o his_o zeal_n for_o god_n and_o against_o the_o sin_n of_o other_o have_v be_v fleshly_a severity_n and_o imprudent_a temerity_n it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o they_o who_o love_n god_n sincere_o and_o can_v endure_v the_o out-breaking_n of_o the_o wicked_a do_v sometime_o transgress_v the_o bound_n of_o moderate_a zeal_n and_o be_v overtake_v in_o some_o miscarriage_n for_o which_o be_v rebuke_v by_o their_o friend_n or_o by_o they_o in_o power_n censure_v or_o civil_o chastise_v do_v in_o stead_n of_o moderate_v their_o zeal_n in_o time_n come_v grow_v more_o slack_a and_o remiss_a in_o their_o zeal_n suspect_v themselves_o incline_v to_o unreasonable_a severity_n and_o rashness_n and_o ready_a to_o be_v esteem_v hater_n of_o man_n person_n by_o those_o among_o who_o they_o live_v as_o in_o some_o bygone_a experience_n they_o have_v already_o feel_v and_o upon_o this_o occasion_n the_o tentation_n of_o satan_n fall_v on_o tend_v to_o extinguish_v the_o fervency_n of_o true_a zeal_n require_v in_o all_o true_a convert_n and_o here_o there_o be_v danger_n lest_o true_a zeal_n grow_v cold_a and_o the_o convert_v become_v lukewarm_a both_o in_o curb_v sin_n in_o other_o under_o his_o charge_n and_o in_o pursue_v duty_n in_o his_o own_o person_n in_o which_o sickness_n he_o may_v be_v the_o better_o please_v with_o himself_o by_o so_o much_o as_o his_o friend_n and_o other_o do_v commend_v he_o for_o his_o moderation_n and_o prudence_n as_o they_o shall_v call_v it_o 2._o as_o to_o the_o remedy_n of_o this_o evil_a there_o be_v no_o doubt_n but_o that_o may_v befall_v true_a zeal_n which_o be_v common_a to_o other_o virtue_n of_o which_o there_o be_v none_o so_o perfect_a but_o some_o in-lake_n or_o excess_n may_v be_v observe_v in_o they_o and_o therefore_o as_o it_o be_v without_o reason_n to_o go_v back_o from_o pursue_v duty_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o other_o virtue_n because_o imperfection_n therein_o be_v remarkable_a from_o time_n to_o time_n so_o be_v it_o without_o reason_n to_o grow_v lukewarm_a in_o zeal_n which_o may_v render_v a_o man_n loathsome_a unto_o christ_n rev._n 2._o 3._o wherefore_o let_v the_o convert_v take_v heed_n what_o the_o lord_n word_n do_v require_v of_o he_o in_o his_o call_n and_o labour_n to_o discharge_v his_o duty_n towards_o other_o so_o as_o he_o may_v be_v find_v both_o zealous_a and_o prudent_a that_o in_o the_o expression_n of_o his_o zeal_n against_o sin_n meekness_n and_o love_n to_o the_o offender_n may_v be_v manifest_v 2._o to_o this_o intent_n let_v the_o convert_v careful_o take_v heed_n to_o entertain_v these_o three_o property_n of_o commendable_a zeal_n which_o be_v 1._o the_o fear_n of_o god_n 2._o humility_n of_o heart_n 3._o the_o love_n of_o his_o neighbour_n for_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n will_v not_o suffer_v the_o convert_n to_o depart_v from_o his_o commandment_n humility_n of_o heart_n will_v make_v the_o man_n modest_a in_o his_o expression_n and_o the_o love_n of_o his_o neighbour_n will_v make_v he_o mix_v meekness_n and_o compassion_n towards_o sinner_n with_o his_o zeal_n against_o offence_n this_o be_v the_o right_a season_n of_o zeal_n which_o the_o apostle_n call_v the_o zeal_n of_o god_n according_a to_o knowledge_n chap._n xv._n of_o the_o convert_n suspect_v his_o aim_v at_o circumspect_a
way_n darken_v and_o the_o application_n of_o promise_n be_v very_o weak_a 2._o when_o satan_n by_o his_o tentation_n obscure_v the_o truth_n which_o shall_v strengthen_v faith_n the_o convert_n find_v himself_o in_o the_o mist_n may_v be_v at_o a_o stand_n till_o his_o sight_n be_v clear_v up_o and_o he_o free_v from_o the_o tentation_n 3._o the_o sincere_a convert_n in_o the_o conscience_n of_o his_o own_o imperfection_n and_o consideration_n of_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o the_o heart_n be_v wary_a and_o suspicious_a that_o he_o may_v be_v easy_o deceive_v and_o take_v historical_a or_o temporal_a faith_n for_o true_a save_a faith_n and_o so_o do_v ready_o lie_v hold_v on_o satan_n suggestion_n against_o the_o sincerity_n of_o his_o â—aith_n 4._o in_o the_o conflict_n which_o his_o faith_n ofttimes_o have_v with_o mis-belief_n strengthen_v by_o satan_n tentation_n he_o find_v himself_o now_o and_o then_o foil_v by_o yield_v unto_o the_o suggestion_n of_o satan_n as_o david_n experience_n teach_v may_v befall_v both_o the_o elder_a and_o young_a soldier_n ps._n â—â—6_n 11._o i_o say_v in_o my_o haste_n all_o man_n be_v liar_n meaning_n samuel_n and_o other_o prophet_n who_o promise_v to_o david_n in_o god_n name_n he_o shall_v be_v king_n 5._o in_o the_o fight_n of_o faith_n some_o infirmity_n be_v always_o manifest_v and_o the_o convert_n be_v force_v to_o acknowledge_v that_o his_o faith_n be_v not_o so_o strong_a as_o he_o suppose_v it_o to_o be_v before_o the_o fight_n whereupon_o he_o be_v ready_a to_o suspect_v his_o fight_n in_o faith_n to_o be_v a_o faint_a and_o decay_v in_o faith_n 6._o sometime_o the_o convert_n by_o give_v way_n to_o sin_n do_v grieve_v the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o provoke_v he_o to_o withdraw_v his_o comfortable_a testimony_n which_o he_o give_v in_o former_a time_n to_o the_o convert_n which_o bring_v he_o into_o suspicion_n of_o the_o sincerity_n of_o his_o faith_n which_o seem_v to_o himself_o sound_a and_o unfeigned_a before_o 2._o this_o case_n be_v both_o troublesome_a to_o the_o convert_n and_o dangerous_a for_o till_o it_o be_v cure_v it_o grow_v like_o a_o rage_a fever_n and_o set_v upon_o the_o vital_a power_n of_o justify_v faith_n and_o at_o least_o hinder_v the_o exercise_n thereof_o not_o a_o little_a for_o remedy_v whereof_o let_v the_o afflict_a convert_n put_v difference_n between_o a_o infirm_a faith_n and_o feel_v infirmity_n in_o faith_n fight_v for_o albeit_o the_o convert_n in_o the_o conflict_n of_o faith_n against_o tentation_n to_o mis-belief_n do_v feel_v infirmity_n yet_o be_v not_o his_o faith_n to_o be_v account_v infirm_a simple_o because_o whatsoever_o infirmity_n he_o feel_v in_o his_o fight_n yet_o his_o fight_v against_o tentation_n prove_v his_o faith_n to_o be_v so_o much_o the_o strong_a as_o he_o resist_v mis-belief_n and_o cleave_v close_a to_o christ._n 2._o let_v he_o consider_v that_o the_o lord_n suffer_v his_o child_n to_o be_v exercise_v with_o tentation_n of_o set_a purpose_n to_o humble_v he_o and_o empty_v he_o of_o all_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o wisdom_n righteousness_n and_o strength_n that_o he_o may_v gather_v strength_n in_o his_o fight_n by_o scripture_n hold_v up_o to_o god_n in_o prayer_n and_o so_o wax_v valiant_a in_o fight_n as_o believer_n have_v be_v help_v before_o heb._n 11._o 34._o 3._o let_v the_o convert_n put_v difference_n between_o faith_n and_o a_o settle_a persuasion_n for_o settle_v and_o full_a persuasion_n exclude_v all_o dubitation_n for_o the_o time_n but_o save_v faith_n may_v may_v be_v where_o doubt_v be_v and_o unbelief_n be_v feel_v as_o the_o father_n of_o the_o possess_a child_n in_o his_o prayer_n to_o christ_n make_v manifest_a lord_n i_o believe_v say_v he_o help_v my_o unbelief_n 4._o let_v he_o put_v difference_n between_o dubitation_n suggest_v and_o faith_n strive_v to_o overcome_v dubitation_n for_o dubitation_n bewray_v infirmity_n of_o faith_n but_o strive_v against_o dubitation_n do_v evidence_n life_n and_o vigour_n in_o faith_n to_o be_v present_a and_o be_v acceptable_a service_n to_o god_n 5._o let_v he_o put_v difference_n between_o the_o doubt_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o promise_n and_o the_o weak_a gripe_a of_o it_o for_o he_o that_o doubt_v of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o promise_n be_v jam._n 1._o 6_o 7._o like_o a_o wave_n of_o the_o sea_n and_o can_v expect_v nothing_o but_o he_o that_o lay_v hold_v on_o the_o promise_n with_o a_o tremble_a hand_n and_o strive_v to_o hold_v it_o fast_o against_o doubt_v may_v expect_v to_o obtain_v 6._o let_v he_o put_v difference_n between_o his_o suspicion_n of_o the_o fail_n of_o his_o faith_n and_o the_o right_n judge_v of_o it_o for_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n of_o his_o fight_a and_o fear_n of_o fail_v he_o go_v on_o in_o exercise_n of_o faith_n fear_v to_o succumb_v yet_o resolute_a not_o to_o depart_v from_o christ_n in_o the_o love_n and_o estimation_n of_o who_o grace_n he_o go_v on_o and_o grow_v long_v for_o the_o victory_n and_o for_o a_o near_o feel_v fellowship_n with_o he_o which_o if_o he_o do_v observe_v and_o consider_v his_o judgement_n shall_v be_v rectify_v last_o of_o all_o let_v he_o put_v difference_n between_o a_o hasty_a apprehension_n of_o the_o fail_n of_o his_o faith_n and_o a_o fix_a opinion_n that_o his_o faith_n be_v but_o fancy_n for_o a_o strong_a soldier_n may_v be_v surprise_v on_o a_o sudden_a as_o david_n ps._n 31._o 22._o and_o ps._n 116._o 11._o and_o jonah_n 2._o 3_o 4._o do_v furnish_v instance_n who_o short_o after_o do_v gather_v their_o courage_n and_o enter_v the_o list_n afresh_o and_o become_v victorious_a against_o their_o tentation_n unto_o misbelief_n therefore_o let_v the_o wrestler_n be_v of_o good_a courage_n for_o nothing_o can_v prove_v the_o sincerity_n of_o his_o faith_n more_o than_o his_o wrestle_n against_o distrust_n and_o his_o look_v towards_o christ_n through_o all_o the_o cloud_n which_o hinder_v his_o sight_n and_o his_o sorrow_n for_o his_o unbelief_n for_o his_o weak_a hold_v grip_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o for_o his_o inability_n to_o glorify_v the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o rich_a grace_n of_o god_n offer_v in_o christ_n especial_o when_o he_o consider_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n commend_v the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n with_o variety_n of_o temptation_n for_o a_o mater_fw-la of_o great_a joy_n jam._n 1._o 2_o 3._o chap._n xix_o concern_v the_o convert_n straighten_v his_o charity_n towards_o other_o more_o than_o he_o do_v at_o the_o first_o time_n of_o his_o conversion_n conceive_v his_o former_a large_a charity_n be_v unwarrantable_a folly_n all_o convert_n must_v agree_v to_o christ_n saying_n joh._n 13._o 35._o by_o this_o shall_v all_o man_n know_v that_o you_o be_v my_o disciple_n if_o you_o have_v love_v one_o to_o another_o no_o man_n doubt_v of_o this_o his_o duty_n in_o general_a but_o sundry_a make_v question_n about_o the_o exercise_n and_o expression_n of_o their_o charity_n for_o some_o conceive_v that_o their_o former_a charity_n in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o judge_v of_o other_o and_o in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o affection_n to_o other_o and_o in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o actual_a expression_n of_o their_o charity_n have_v be_v ill_o bestow_v towards_o unworthy_a and_o illdeserving_a person_n and_o this_o they_o reckon_v to_o have_v be_v folly_n and_o therefore_o do_v resolve_v to_o dispose_v of_o their_o judgement_n affection_n and_o good_a deed_n more_o prudent_o than_o they_o have_v do_v that_o their_o charitable_a estimation_n affection_n and_o expression_n actual_a shall_v be_v draw_v forth_o towards_o the_o worthy_a and_o well-deserving_a disciple_n of_o their_o acquaintance_n thus_o they_o condemn_v for_o folly_n what_o be_v right_o indeed_o the_o main_a pretence_n of_o reason_n for_o their_o resolution_n be_v two_o the_o first_o be_v because_o they_o perceive_v many_o who_o they_o judge_v wise_a and_o godly_a to_o exclude_v from_o the_o number_n of_o believer_n or_o disciple_n of_o christ_n all_o in_o who_o the_o evident_a sign_n of_o regeneration_n do_v not_o appear_v and_o so_o do_v think_v they_o may_v draw_v the_o circle_n of_o their_o charity_n in_o strait_a and_o narrow_a bound_n and_o may_v shun_v to_o keep_v church-fellowship_n in_o the_o pure_a ordinance_n of_o christ_n with_o any_o save_v approven_v visible_a saint_n the_o other_o pretence_n be_v because_o they_o have_v find_v themselves_o ofttimes_o deceive_v by_o those_o of_o who_o sometime_o they_o have_v entertain_v good_a thought_n and_o no_o small_a estimation_n 1._o as_o for_o the_o first_o pretence_n it_o belong_v to_o the_o question_n of_o the_o constitution_n of_o visible_a church_n whether_o it_o be_v found_v upon_o visible_a sanctity_n or_o evidence_n of_o regeneration_n or_o upon_o visible_a enter_v in_o the_o external_a covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o profession_n of_o subjection_n to_o the_o
be_v gross_o scandalous_a for_o with_o such_o we_o be_v forbid_v to_o eat_v 1_o cor._n 5._o 11._o ans._n this_o place_n pertain_v to_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o key_n of_o discipline_n and_o execution_n of_o the_o censure_n of_o excommunication_n judicial_o pronounce_v by_o the_o church_n as_o ver_fw-la 12._o follow_v do_v declare_v and_o this_o as_o it_o do_v not_o cut_v off_o natural_a duty_n of_o parent_n or_o child_n or_o party_n marry_v one_o to_o another_o so_o it_o can_v well_o consist_v with_o charity_n towards_o the_o excommunicate_a who_o in_o order_n to_o his_o salvation_n shall_v be_v thus_o deal_v with_o that_o he_o may_v be_v humble_v and_o bring_v to_o repentance_n and_o so_o do_v the_o apostle_n give_v warrant_n for_o when_o he_o have_v give_v order_n to_o excommunicate_a such_o as_o walk_v disorderly_a 2_o thess._n 3._o 14_o 15._o he_o subjoine_v for_o keep_v charity_n to_o the_o excommunicate_a person_n say_v count_v he_o not_o as_o a_o enemy_n but_o admonish_v he_o as_o a_o brother_n 9_o obj._n but_o i_o say_v he_o have_v be_v mistake_v and_o deceive_v ofttimes_o when_o i_o esteem_v charitable_o of_o some_o love_v they_o dear_o and_o bestow_v not_o spare_o on_o those_o who_o prove_v afterward_o unworthy_a of_o such_o respect_n and_o deal_n ans._n our_o lord_n word_n may_v satisfy_v this_o objection_n promise_v whatsoever_o be_v do_v to_o a_o disciple_n in_o name_n of_o a_o disciple_n shall_v not_o want_v a_o reward_n thou_o therefore_o need_v not_o count_v thyself_o deceive_v in_o this_o respect_n but_o if_o thou_o by_o rash_a intrude_a thyself_o to_o judge_v better_a or_o worse_o of_o the_o man_n inward_a condition_n have_v deceive_v thyself_o be_v more_o wise_a in_o time_n come_v for_o remedy_n of_o this_o evil_a 1._o let_v not_o the_o convert_n mistake_v in_o the_o point_n of_o charity_n be_v fear_v to_o be_v mistake_v and_o hinder_v from_o exercise_n of_o his_o charity_n because_o he_o know_v not_o the_o sincerity_n of_o the_o man_n profession_n there_o be_v relation_n enough_o between_o he_o and_o the_o party_n towards_o who_o charity_n be_v to_o be_v exercise_v such_o as_o bond_n natural_a civil_a ecclesiastic_a and_o spiritual_a oblige_v to_o the_o duty_n 2._o let_v he_o be_v spare_v in_o judge_v of_o his_o neighbour_n even_o within_o himself_o and_o far_o more_o in_o express_v his_o judgement_n of_o he_o to_o his_o prejudice_n 3._o let_v he_o rather_o judge_v this_o that_o he_o lay_v no_o stumble_a block_n before_o his_o foot_n which_o may_v hinder_v he_o in_o a_o good_a or_o harden_v he_o in_o a_o evil_a course_n rom._n 14._o 13._o let_v he_o not_o be_v rigid_a and_o censorious_a in_o aggrege_v every_o sinful_a infirmity_n in_o his_o neighbour_n for_o this_o be_v forbid_v jam._n 3._o 1_o 2._o in_o a_o word_n let_v a_o convert_v beware_v to_o alienat_fw-la any_o man_n from_o make_v use_n of_o his_o charity_n whether_o by_o injust_a suspicion_n of_o he_o or_o inhuman_a deal_n with_o he_o or_o imprudent_a speech_n of_o he_o but_o rather_o let_v his_o whole_a carriage_n towards_o all_o in_o every_o case_n be_v such_o that_o a_o patent_n door_n may_v be_v for_o mutual_a give_v and_o get_v good_a one_o by_o another_o chap._n xx._n concern_v the_o convert_n mistake_v his_o condition_n because_o of_o feel_a in-lake_n in_o his_o charity_n and_o love_n to_o god_n and_o man_n hitherto_o we_o have_v speak_v of_o two_o sort_n of_o the_o convert_v mistake_v of_o their_o condition_n and_o have_v give_v some_o instance_n of_o their_o be_v well_o please_v with_o themselves_o in_o a_o evil_a condition_n and_o some_o instance_n of_o their_o be_v displease_v with_o themselves_o in_o a_o good_a condition_n it_o follow_v that_o we_o give_v some_o instance_n of_o a_o three_o sort_n of_o mistake_v in_o the_o convert_v complain_v of_o his_o condition_n as_o if_o it_o be_v altogether_o evil_a when_o indeed_o his_o condition_n be_v partly_o good_a and_o partly_o evil_a and_o the_o first_o shall_v be_v of_o those_o who_o do_v lament_v their_o condition_n because_o they_o can_v be_v affect_v with_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o sin_n nor_o with_o the_o sense_n of_o god_n benefit_n and_o favour_n bestow_v on_o they_o as_o they_o shall_v can_v be_v affect_v with_o the_o sense_n of_o threaten_a judgement_n as_o be_v require_v and_o can_v be_v affect_v with_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o misery_n and_o mercy_n dispense_v towards_o other_o and_o can_v come_v up_o to_o the_o obedience_n of_o the_o apostle_n precept_n to_o rejoice_v with_o they_o that_o rejoice_v and_o to_o mourn_v with_o they_o that_o mourn_v which_o do_v so_o afflict_v they_o as_o they_o reckon_v this_o their_o condition_n altogether_o evil_a and_o be_v near_o unto_o discouragement_n because_o of_o their_o apprehend_a hardness_n of_o heart_n 2._o for_o remedy_n of_o this_o evil_a 1._o let_v the_o convert_v consider_v that_o the_o hardness_n of_o heart_n whereof_o he_o complain_v be_v not_o that_o hardness_n of_o heart_n which_o the_o scripture_n call_v hardness_n of_o heart_n for_o the_o scripture_n do_v not_o charge_v any_o man_n of_o this_o sin_n who_o lament_v his_o sinfulness_n but_o those_o who_o do_v not_o acknowledge_v their_o sin_n and_o go_v on_o in_o they_o when_o they_o hear_v they_o reprove_v misregarding_a what_o god_n say_v command_v commend_v or_o threaten_v mean_a time_n we_o do_v not_o deny_v but_o those_o inlake_n whereof_o the_o convert_n do_v complain_v be_v sinful_a defect_n of_o duty_n and_o inclination_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n unto_o hardness_n of_o heart_n but_o we_o deny_v that_o this_o defect_n lament_v be_v charge_v in_o scripture_n for_o hardness_n of_o heart_n 2._o let_v the_o convert_n consider_v the_o difference_n between_o the_o evil_a whereof_o he_o complain_v and_o the_o good_a gift_n of_o god_n point_v out_o that_o evil_a unto_o he_o and_o make_v he_o to_o disallow_v it_o and_o lament_v it_o and_o he_o shall_v find_v his_o condition_n not_o altogether_o evil_a but_o such_o as_o he_o have_v cause_n to_o be_v humble_v in_o himself_o for_o it_o and_o also_o to_o bless_v god_n for_o discover_v this_o defect_n and_o make_v he_o lament_v it_o 3._o let_v he_o consider_v that_o his_o lament_v his_o coldrise_n affection_n to_o god_n and_o his_o small_a compassion_n towards_o man_n be_v good_a and_o commendable_a for_o this_o lament_v the_o defect_n bear_v witness_n of_o his_o will_n and_o desire_v towards_o the_o duty_n and_o in_o effect_n be_v a_o part_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n and_o of_o begin_v renovation_n of_o his_o heart_n 4._o let_v he_o consider_v that_o there_o may_v be_v make_v good_a use_n of_o this_o condition_n both_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o humility_n because_o of_o feel_v defect_n of_o needful_a grace_n and_o also_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n in_o christ_n by_o application_n of_o his_o impute_a righteousness_n which_o hide_v the_o nakedness_n of_o feel_a defect_n and_o draw_v virtue_n from_o christ_n to_o sanctify_v and_o renew_v the_o heart_n more_o and_o more_o 5._o and_o last_o of_o all_o let_v the_o convert_v under_o the_o sense_n of_o this_o defect_n in_o his_o affection_n study_v to_o bring_v forth_o the_o effect_n of_o those_o affection_n that_o be_v to_o say_v let_v he_o go_v about_o to_o do_v the_o work_n of_o a_o lover_n of_o god_n in_o have_v respect_n to_o all_o his_o commandment_n and_o to_o do_v the_o work_n of_o a_o compassionate_a affection_n towards_o man_n in_o misery_n of_o soul_n or_o body_n and_o so_o what_o seem_v to_o he_o in-laking_a in_o his_o heart_n shall_v be_v find_v forthcoming_a in_o his_o hand_n and_o action_n for_o the_o great_a glory_n to_o god_n and_o edification_n of_o his_o neighbour_n chap._n xxi_o concern_v the_o convert_n despise_v of_o his_o own_o exercise_n of_o religion_n because_o of_o his_o feel_a vanity_n of_o mind_n therein_o ali_n true_a convert_n do_v agree_v in_o this_o principle_n that_o god_n shall_v be_v worship_v in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n and_o that_o the_o more_o a_o man_n strive_v to_o be_v sincere_a and_o upright_a in_o his_o worship_n the_o less_o can_v be_v comport_v with_o the_o sin_n which_o do_v hinder_v his_o worship_n when_o therefore_o a_o true_a convert_n do_v perceive_v in_o himself_o so_o great_a levity_n of_o his_o thought_n that_o in_o the_o very_a time_n of_o hear_v sermon_n pray_v to_o god_n or_o sing_a of_o psalm_n his_o mind_n run_v out_o to_o think_v of_o naughty_a and_o profane_a thing_n impertinent_a idle_a and_o foolish_a matter_n unworthy_a of_o his_o thought_n at_o any_o time_n but_o most_o untimous_a and_o sinful_a in_o the_o time_n of_o divine_a service_n he_o be_v so_o displease_v with_o his_o condition_n that_o he_o condemn_v all_o the_o service_n and_o devotion_n he_o be_v about_o for_o the_o time_n and_o cast_v it_o away_o as_o altogether_o pollute_v and_o
and_o for_o ever_o but_o for_o a_o short_a time_n and_o that_o he_o keep_v love_n to_o they_o constant_o albeit_o he_o do_v hide_v the_o token_n of_o his_o love_n sometime_o and_o dispose_v of_o the_o act_n of_o his_o love_n as_o he_o see_v sit_v for_o the_o advantage_n of_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n in_o they_o let_v he_o put_v difference_n between_o desertion_n and_o the_o gift_n of_o discern_v of_o the_o desertion_n for_o albeit_o desertion_n be_v of_o itself_o a_o sad_a visitation_n yet_o the_o sight_n and_o observation_n of_o it_o testify_v god_n presence_n with_o his_o child_n giving_z eyesalve_n and_o light_n and_o thereby_o do_v not_o only_o teach_v that_o wound_n to_o be_v curable_a but_o also_o that_o the_o physician_n be_v begin_v the_o cure_n of_o it_o by_o pance_v and_o lance_v the_o wound_n 3._o let_v he_o not_o count_v it_o a_o desertion_n when_o god_n in_o any_o service_n whereunto_o he_o put_v his_o child_n empty_v he_o of_o all_o conceit_n of_o his_o own_o ability_n that_o he_o may_v open_v his_o mouth_n wyd_v and_o be_v fill_v for_o this_o empty_n of_o the_o convert_n be_v the_o very_o fit_v of_o he_o for_o fresh_a supply_n from_o christ_n to_o go_v about_o the_o service_n in_o christ_n strength_n and_o furniture_n which_o the_o apostle_n feel_v by_o experience_n 2_o cor._n 12._o 10._o when_o i_o be_o weak_a say_v he_o than_o i_o be_o strong_a poverty_n of_o spirit_n and_o hunger_n and_o thirst_n for_o righteousness_n be_v not_o to_o be_v count_v desertion_n 4._o let_v he_o observe_v the_o degree_n of_o god_n presence_n no_o less_o than_o the_o degree_n of_o his_o absence_n as_o the_o psalmist_n do_v when_o he_o recollect_v himself_o ps._n 73._o 23._o after_o the_o tentation_n which_o trouble_v he_o be_v overcome_v nevertheless_o i_o be_o continual_o with_o thou_o thou_o hold_v i_o by_o thy_o right_a hand_n and_o ver_fw-la 26._o my_o flesh_n and_o my_o heart_n fail_v but_o god_n be_v the_o strength_n of_o my_o heart_n and_o my_o portion_n for_o ever_o 5._o let_v he_o put_v a_o right_a construction_n upon_o god_n dispensation_n believe_v always_o that_o god_n do_v what_o he_o do_v for_o good_a to_o his_o afflict_a subject_n whether_o he_o draw_v forth_o by_o his_o desertion_n the_o latent-corruption_n of_o the_o heart_n as_o he_o do_v to_o ezekiah_n 2_o chron._n 32._o 31._o or_o whether_o to_o prevent_v out-breaking_a of_o corruption_n as_o he_o do_v to_o the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 12._o 7._o 8_o 9_o or_o whether_o to_o exercise_v his_o faith_n love_n and_o patience_n and_o to_o sharpen_v his_o prayer_n as_o he_o do_v to_o the_o psalmist_n frequent_o and_o therefore_o let_v he_o in_o the_o observation_n of_o whatsoever_o degree_n of_o desertion_n humble_v himself_o before_o god_n fly_v in_o more_o close_o unto_o christ_n and_o patient_o wait_v upon_o the_o change_n of_o his_o conditon_n in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n and_o follow_v the_o duty_n of_o his_o call_n as_o the_o lord_n shall_v enable_v he_o for_o this_o be_v the_o counsel_n of_o the_o lord_n isa._n 50._o 10._o who_o be_v he_o among_o you_o that_o fear_v the_o lord_n that_o obey_v the_o voice_n of_o his_o servont_n that_o walk_v in_o darkness_n and_o have_v no_o light_n let_v he_o trust_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o stay_v upon_o his_o god_n and_o this_o much_o suffice_v for_o instance_n of_o the_o three_o sort_n of_o the_o convert_v mistake_v his_o condition_n chap._n xxviii_o concern_v case_n wherein_o the_o convert_n be_v in_o doubt_n what_o to_o determine_v about_o his_o condition_n it_o rest_v that_o we_o speak_v of_o the_o four_o sort_n of_o case_n of_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o convert_n wherein_o he_o be_v at_o a_o stand_n and_o in_o doubt_n what_o to_o determine_v of_o his_o present_a condition_n 2._o in_o these_o doubtful_a case_n the_o convert_n be_v not_o proper_o deceive_v as_o in_o the_o former_a rank_n of_o case_n it_o be_v presuppose_v of_o he_o because_o in_o this_o sort_n of_o case_n the_o convert_n do_v not_o positive_o determine_v the_o question_n wherein_o he_o be_v fall_v but_o stand_v in_o doubt_n what_o to_o resolve_v upon_o 3._o case_n of_o this_o sort_n pertain_v to_o the_o mind_n and_o judgement_n of_o the_o convert_n and_o if_o his_o judgement_n be_v clear_v by_o lose_v of_o the_o question_n incontinent_a he_o be_v satisfy_v and_o quiet_a 4._o it_o be_v necessary_a for_o the_o convert_v clear_v that_o he_o form_n the_o question_n right_o and_o to_o this_o end_n 1._o let_v he_o consider_v his_o case_n and_o condition_n in_o himself_o so_o accurat_o as_o he_o can_v 2._o let_v he_o ingenuous_o lay_v forth_o the_o question_n or_o doubt_v he_o have_v before_o his_o pastor_n or_o christian_a friend_n acquaint_v with_o case_n of_o conscience_n and_o ask_v their_o judgement_n what_o to_o think_v of_o or_o what_o to_o do_v in_o such_o a_o case_n the_o reason_n why_o he_o must_v examine_v narrow_o his_o own_o condition_n before_o he_o speak_v of_o it_o to_o another_o be_v partly_o because_o otherways_o his_o doubt_n or_o question_n may_v prove_v frivolous_a and_o unworthy_a of_o a_o answer_n partly_o because_o the_o convert_n after_o examination_n of_o his_o case_n and_o prayer_n unto_o god_n may_v find_v satisfaction_n to_o his_o doubt_n and_o partly_o because_o if_o his_o doubt_n remain_v the_o question_n may_v be_v the_o more_o clear_o propound_v and_o so_o receive_v the_o more_o clear_a and_o speedy_a answer_n for_o his_o satisfaction_n 5._o of_o this_o sort_n of_o question_n we_o shall_v propound_v some_o example_n and_o give_v some_o resolution_n unto_o they_o whereof_o use_n may_v be_v make_v when_o such_o like_a question_n shall_v occur_v the_o first_o question_n shall_v be_v concern_v confusion_n of_o mind_n it_o come_v to_o pass_v sometime_o when_o a_o convert_n be_v upon_o examination_n of_o his_o own_o estate_n or_o condition_n that_o such_o a_o mist_n and_o darkness_n fall_v on_o his_o mind_n and_o such_o a_o crowd_n and_o throng_n of_o thought_n within_o he_o that_o he_o can_v discern_v nothing_o but_o mist_n multitude_n of_o thought_n and_o darkness_n and_o confusion_n the_o question_n be_v what_o shall_v he_o think_v or_o do_v for_o remove_v of_o this_o confusion_n of_o thought_n and_o darkness_n of_o mind_n ans._n this_o case_n befall_v convert_n frequent_o and_o therefore_o have_v need_n to_o be_v the_o more_o careful_o cure_v which_o cure_n that_o it_o may_v the_o better_o go_v on_o let_v the_o afflict_a renew_v the_o examination_n of_o his_o former_a behaviour_n and_o see_v if_o he_o can_v find_v out_o the_o meritorious_a cause_n thereof_o in_o himself_o for_o this_o case_n ofttimes_o be_v the_o castigation_n of_o the_o afflict_a for_o his_o former_a negligence_n and_o omission_n of_o duty_n or_o slight_a discharge_n of_o religious_a worship_n yea_o it_o may_v be_v find_v possible_o that_o the_o afflict_a have_v be_v so_o careless_a in_o keep_v his_o heart_n in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n that_o he_o have_v involve_v himself_o too_o far_o in_o earthly_a and_o thorny_a affair_n or_o have_v exceed_v in_o the_o use_n of_o thing_n lawful_a or_o by_o some_o corrupt_a communication_n have_v grieve_v the_o lord_n spirit_n and_o so_o have_v draw_v on_o some_o desertion_n and_o withdraw_a of_o illumination_n from_o he_o 2._o this_o case_n may_v also_o fall_v out_o from_o some_o present_a perturbation_n of_o mind_n and_o passion_n whereby_o his_o reason_n be_v so_o take_v up_o for_o the_o time_n that_o it_o can_v discharge_v its_o duty_n as_o come_v to_o pass_v usual_o in_o anger_n or_o fear_n or_o grief_n or_o some_o such_o like_a passion_n as_o may_v be_v see_v when_o a_o man_n be_v injure_v by_o his_o neighbour_n or_o do_v meet_v with_o some_o damnage_n or_o be_v put_v in_o fear_n of_o some_o imminent_a evil_a come_n on_o he_o or_o find_v sharp_a pain_n of_o body_n or_o some_o such_o like_a cause_n perplex_v he_o the_o question_n be_v what_o shall_v he_o think_v of_o this_o condition_n ans._n if_o the_o afflict_a shall_v examine_v how_o he_o be_v fall_v in_o this_o case_n and_o shall_v in_o consideration_n of_o his_o weakness_n be_v humble_v before_o god_n by_o prayer_n he_o shall_v not_o want_v clearness_n of_o mind_n and_o direction_n from_o god_n what_o to_o do_v and_o how_o to_o behave_v himself_o in_o order_v of_o his_o conversation_n aright_o ps._n 50._o 23._o for_o the_o lord_n give_v wisdom_n liberal_o to_o all_o that_o ask_v it_o of_o he_o in_o faith_n jam._n 1._o 5._o and_o this_o his_o present_a condition_n give_v he_o a_o errand_n to_o god_n the_o second_o question_n be_v concern_v the_o convert_n who_o most_o part_n walk_v heavy_o there_o be_v some_o true_a convert_n who_o after_o examination_n of_o themselves_o can_v deny_v but_o their_o heart_n be_v towards_o the_o way_n of_o god_n
whether_o the_o believer_n perceive_v his_o absolution_n or_o not_o for_o the_o time_n 4._o there_o be_v a_o sensible_a intimation_n of_o this_o sentence_n unto_o the_o believer_n join_v with_o peace_n and_o joy_n which_o the_o apostle_n call_v the_o shed_v abroad_o of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o the_o heart_n rom._n 5._o 5._o and_o the_o seal_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n stamp_v the_o heart_n with_o holiness_n ephes._n 1._o 13._o the_o first_o three_o make_v the_o absolution_n of_o the_o believer_n certain_a whether_o the_o believer_n think_v so_o or_o not_o but_o the_o four_o which_o be_v the_o sensible_a intimation_n of_o this_o sentence_n do_v make_v the_o believer_n both_o sure_a and_o joyful_a as_o justification_n be_v take_v passive_o four_o thing_n may_v be_v distinguish_v in_o the_o believer_n justify_v the_o first_o be_v his_o actual_a receive_n of_o christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n for_o a_o perfect_a remedy_n of_o sin_n and_o misery_n the_o second_o be_v the_o lord_n judicial_a settle_v of_o the_o general_a sentence_n of_o absolution_n upon_o the_o believer_n as_o if_o he_o have_v speak_v to_o he_o by_o name_n as_o he_o do_v to_o the_o apostle_n joh._n 15._o 3._o now_o be_v you_o clean_o through_o the_o word_n i_o â—ave_n speak_v unto_o you_o that_o be_v you_o be_v clean_a from_o the_o guilâ—_n of_o sin_n by_o my_o absolve_v of_o you_o the_o three_o be_v the_o believer_n observe_v in_o a_o reflect_v act_n of_o his_o conscience_n that_o he_o have_v flee_v to_o christ_n for_o absolution_n and_o therefore_o justify_v indeed_o the_o four_o be_v the_o feeling_n and_o observe_v of_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n bear_v witness_n with_o his_o spirit_n that_o he_o be_v a_o child_n of_o god_n absolve_v from_o sin_n and_o wrath_n the_o first_o two_o of_o these_o to_o wit_n the_o act_n of_o faith_n receive_v of_o christ_n and_o of_o the_o right_n make_v by_o christ_n to_o the_o believer_n in_o he_o of_o his_o absolution_n may_v be_v in_o and_o on_o the_o believer_n without_o the_o other_o two_o to_o wit_n his_o observation_n of_o the_o act_n of_o faith_n and_o the_o feel_a intimation_n of_o this_o worlâ—_n of_o grace_n by_o the_o holy_a spirit_n 2._o for_o solve_v of_o the_o doubt_n then_o as_o justification_n be_v active_o take_v as_o proceed_v from_o the_o immanent_a act_n of_o god_n eternal_a purpose_n and_o decree_n to_o justify_v the_o believer_n it_o be_v no_o more_o the_o actual_a justification_n in_o this_o life_n of_o which_o we_o be_v speak_v than_o the_o immanent_a act_n of_o god_n eternal_a purpose_n to_o raise_v the_o body_n of_o believer_n in_o christ_n and_o to_o glorify_v they_o in_o soul_n and_o body_n can_v be_v call_v the_o actual_a resurrection_n of_o their_o body_n and_o glorification_n of_o both_o soul_n and_o body_n in_o this_o life_n but_o the_o transient_a act_n of_o justification_n in_o a_o judicial_a way_n which_o be_v the_o lord_n judicial_a sentence_n of_o absolution_n of_o the_o believer_n declare_v by_o his_o word_n set_v down_o now_o in_o holy_a scripture_n it_o be_v indeed_o and_o formal_o the_o believer_n justification_n and_o be_v judicial_o terminar_a upon_o every_o believer_n in_o the_o act_n of_o his_o conversion_n whether_o the_o believer_n do_v clear_o perceive_v his_o own_o conversion_n or_o be_v in_o suspicion_n of_o his_o be_v reconcile_v and_o justify_v and_o this_o may_v be_v make_v to_o appear_v if_o we_o compare_v the_o condemnation_n of_o the_o unbeliever_n with_o the_o absolution_n of_o the_o believer_n flee_v to_o christ_n joh._n 3._o 18._o as_o he_o that_o believe_v not_o in_o christ_n be_v condemn_v already_o because_o the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n and_o condemnation_n pronounce_v in_o the_o scripture_n by_o god_n the_o sovereign_a judge_n stand_v against_o he_o so_o long_o as_o he_o do_v not_o believe_v in_o the_o only_o beget_v son_n of_o god_n and_o this_o sentence_n stand_v fast_o whether_o the_o unbeliever_n take_v notice_n of_o this_o sentence_n or_o not_o whether_o he_o do_v apply_v it_o to_o himself_o or_o not_o do_v find_v grief_n for_o it_o or_o not_o so_o the_o believer_n in_o christ_n be_v relax_v from_o condemnation_n and_o absolve_v and_o have_v right_a unto_o eternal_a life_n and_o begin_v possession_n of_o it_o albeit_o for_o the_o time_n of_o his_o infancy_n tentation_n tremble_v and_o fear_n it_o be_v not_o so_o albeit_o he_o do_v not_o perceive_v the_o bless_a change_n of_o his_o state_n nor_o do_v lay_v to_o heart_n as_o he_o may_v the_o word_n of_o christ_n judicial_o pronounce_v the_o sentence_n comprehend_v he_o as_o certain_o as_o if_o his_o name_n be_v express_v joh._n 3._o 18._o he_o that_o believe_v on_o he_o be_v not_o condemn_v and_o ver_fw-la 36._o he_o that_o believe_v on_o the_o son_n have_v everlasting_a life_n and_o joh._n 6._o from_o ver_fw-la 37._o to_o 41._o hence_o we_o conclude_v that_o the_o formal_a act_n of_o justification_n of_o a_o man_n flee_v to_o christ_n be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o the_o write_a sentence_n of_o the_o judge_n absolve_v every_o believer_n and_o the_o man_n we_o speak_v of_o there_o be_v another_o transient_a act_n of_o god_n in_o a_o actual_a revelation_n of_o justification_n wherein_o the_o holy_a ghost_n open_v the_o eye_n of_o the_o believer_n to_o behold_v and_o perceive_v the_o gift_n of_o say_v already_o bestow_v on_o he_o of_o this_o speak_v the_o apostle_n 1_o cor._n 2._o 12._o and_o after_o that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n have_v point_v out_o his_o own_o grace_n bestow_v on_o the_o believer_n he_o follow_v his_o work_n by_o give_v remarkable_a peace_n and_o joy_n as_o earnest_n of_o life_n everlasting_a whereof_o the_o apostle_n speak_v ephes._n 1._o 13._o in_o who_o you_o also_o trust_v after_o you_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n the_o gospel_n of_o your_o salvation_n in_o who_o also_o after_o you_o have_v believe_v you_o be_v seal_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o promise_n which_o be_v the_o earnest_n of_o our_o inheritance_n therefore_o he_o that_o desire_v to_o have_v the_o intimation_n of_o his_o justification_n after_o fly_v for_o refuge_n unto_o christ_n for_o relief_n of_o feel_a sin_n and_o fear_v wrath_n must_v read_v his_o absolution_n in_o the_o gospel_n as_o well_o as_o he_o have_v read_v before_o that_o his_o condemnation_n in_o the_o law_n unto_o which_o sentence_n of_o absolution_n let_v he_o hold_v fast_o in_o his_o daily_a endeavour_n after_o sanctification_n the_o five_o question_n be_v how_o to_o satisfy_v the_o convert_n who_o find_v himself_o pursue_v for_o his_o sin_n after_o remission_n believe_v and_o be_v bring_v in_o question_n what_o to_o judge_v of_o his_o case_n many_o convert_n have_v fall_v in_o job_n case_n and_o seem_v to_o themselves_o to_o possess_v the_o sin_n of_o their_o youth_n job_n 13._o 26._o for_o after_o conversion_n and_o feel_v reconciliation_n they_o find_v the_o sin_n they_o do_v repent_v of_o and_o do_v believe_v to_o be_v forgive_v through_o christ_n object_v to_o they_o afresh_o pursue_v with_o sharp_a accusation_n and_o sign_n of_o wrath_n join_v therewith_o their_o reconciliation_n and_o righteousness_n through_o christ_n they_o purpose_v to_o hold_v fast_o their_o old_a guiltiness_n and_o sentence_n of_o their_o conscience_n write_v bitter_a thing_n against_o they_o they_o can_v deny_v the_o pinch_n be_v here_o either_o the_o remission_n they_o do_v believe_v be_v null_a or_o the_o challenge_n be_v unjust_a do_v they_o reason_n with_o themselves_o the_o nullity_n of_o their_o remission_n they_o dare_v not_o admit_v and_o the_o just_a ground_n of_o challenge_n they_o can_v deny_v and_o the_o doubt_n what_o to_o think_v of_o this_o case_n they_o can_v shun_v not_o see_v how_o these_o thing_n can_v consist_v and_o stand_v together_o 2._o for_o answer_v to_o this_o doubt_n these_o four_o thing_n must_v be_v distinguish_v and_o how_o they_o may_v all_o consist_v one_o with_o another_o must_v be_v timous_o consider_v the_o four_o thing_n to_o be_v distinguish_v be_v 1._o the_o reconciliation_n of_o a_o convert_n with_o god_n 2._o the_o remission_n of_o the_o reconcile_a man_n sin_n free_o gift_v unto_o he_o by_o god_n 3._o a_o renew_a bitter_a accusation_n raise_v by_o satan_n against_o the_o reâ—iled_a convert_n 4._o the_o holy_a and_o wise_a dispensation_n of_o god_n permit_v &_o order_v these_o renew_a accusation_n of_o his_o child_n by_o satan_n for_o the_o trial_n and_o exercise_n of_o his_o faith_n and_o growth_n of_o his_o repentance_n and_o other_o good_a end_n now_o for_o the_o consistence_n of_o these_o four_o we_o need_v not_o doubt_n but_o the_o accuser_n of_o the_o brethren_n can_v cast_v up_o to_o we_o forgive_v sin_n and_o bear_v upon_o we_o that_o they_o be_v not_o forgive_v neither_o need_v we_o doubt_v but_o god_n in_o wisdom_n and_o love_n to_o his_o child_n may_v suffer_v satan_n to_o
and_o faith_n in_o he_o and_o so_o save_v the_o believer_n 1_o joh._n 1._o 9_o and_o 2._o 1._o 7._o as_o for_o the_o last_o objection_n take_v from_o the_o impossibility_n of_o know_v take_v notice_n of_o or_o confess_v every_o sin_n wherewith_o we_o be_v daily_o pollute_v or_o from_o the_o impossibility_n of_o put_v repentance_n and_o faith_n in_o exercise_n about_o every_o particular_a sin_n we_o answer_v first_o that_o the_o child_n of_o god_n notwithstanding_o of_o this_o impossibility_n acknowledge_v by_o they_o have_v seek_v and_o obtain_v renew_v remission_n of_o their_o innumerable_a sin_n ps._n 40._o 12._o and_o ps._n 19_o 12_o 13._o 8._o second_o such_o as_o be_v justify_v by_o faith_n upon_o confession_n of_o such_o sin_n as_o they_o know_v and_o do_v remember_v be_v accept_v of_o god_n as_o if_o they_o have_v confess_v all_o their_o sin_n particular_o because_o he_o that_o have_v no_o mind_n to_o deny_v or_o excuse_v any_o sin_n in_o himself_o but_o be_v willing_a to_o open_v up_o his_o heart_n to_o god_n in_o sincerity_n and_o to_o canfesse_v every_o particular_a if_o he_o be_v able_a he_o have_v present_v a_o contrite_a heart_n before_o god_n which_o be_v a_o sacrifice_n acceptable_a to_o god_n ps._n 51._o 8_o 9_o ps._n 32._o 5._o and_o this_o much_o also_o christ_n do_v teach_v we_o speak_v of_o the_o publican_n who_o make_v a_o short_a and_o general_a confession_n of_o his_o sin_n in_o sincerity_n and_o go_v home_o justify_v luk._n 18._o 13_o 14._o three_o it_o be_v not_o impossible_a for_o a_o watchful_a conscience_n to_o observe_v daily_o as_o many_o particular_a sprouting_n from_o the_o root_n of_o inborn_a sin_n as_o may_v humble_v he_o daily_o and_o bear_v down_o all_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o righteousness_n and_o furnish_v to_o he_o mater_fw-la for_o exercise_v of_o repentance_n and_o faith_n in_o christ._n and_o this_o lesson_n the_o lord_n do_v teach_v his_o people_n under_o the_o law_n by_o the_o twice_o offer_v sacrifice_n every_o day_n morning_n and_o evening_n that_o his_o people_n observe_v daily_o the_o run_a issue_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n may_v daily_o have_v their_o recourse_n by_o faith_n unto_o the_o lamb_n of_o god_n that_o take_v away_o the_o sin_n of_o his_o own_o people_n and_o hitherto_o we_o be_v direct_v to_o look_v is._n 45._o 22._o and_o 1_o job._n 2._o 1._o mean_a time_n on_o the_o one_o hand_n let_v we_o beware_v to_o lay_v any_o sort_n of_o merit_n upon_o our_o daily_a exercise_n of_o faith_n and_o sorrow_n for_o sin_n in_o our_o repentance_n otherways_o we_o shall_v be_v find_v offerer_n unto_o god_n of_o satisfaction_n from_o we_o and_o not_o suitor_n of_o remission_n of_o sin_n from_o god_n and_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n let_v we_o beware_v to_o be_v discourage_v albeit_o we_o do_v not_o find_v daily_o the_o renew_a intimation_n and_o sense_n of_o remission_n but_o as_o we_o apply_v the_o law_n to_o ourselves_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n so_o let_v we_o apply_v the_o sentence_n of_o absolution_n pronounce_v in_o the_o gospel_n in_o favour_n of_o every_o penitent_a soul_n that_o fly_v to_o christ_n for_o refuge_n the_o ten_o question_n shall_v be_v concern_v spiritual_a disposition_n of_o mind_n and_o qualification_n which_o may_v be_v join_v with_o or_o separat_fw-la from_o the_o special_a work_n of_o true_a conversion_n and_o save_a grace_n the_o apostle_n heb._n 6._o 4_o 5_o 6_o 9_o 10._o tell_v we_o of_o sundry_a qualification_n which_o may_v be_v find_v in_o unconvert_v man_n and_o also_o he_o tell_v we_o of_o better_a thing_n which_o do_v accompany_v salvation_n and_o be_v sure_a evidence_n of_o regeneration_n of_o the_o first_o sort_n there_o be_v among_o other_o these_o five_o 1._o a_o legal_a conviction_n of_o the_o vileness_n of_o sin_n and_o vanity_n of_o the_o world_n 2._o a_o renounce_n of_o unlawful_a pleasure_n join_v with_o a_o refrain_v even_o from_o lawful_a and_o allow_v worldly_a delight_n 3._o a_o natural_a desire_n of_o salvation_n and_o of_o sanctification_n that_o they_o may_v be_v save_v 4._o a_o purpose_n to_o live_v righteous_o holy_o and_o sober_o in_o this_o present_a world_n 5._o a_o outward_a change_n of_o manner_n and_o conversation_n so_o far_o as_o they_o may_v be_v blameless_a before_o man_n these_o and_o such_o like_a qualification_n may_v make_v a_o fair_a show_n in_o the_o flesh_n and_o yet_o may_v be_v find_v to_o be_v not_o only_o in_o true_a convert_n but_o also_o in_o such_o as_o be_v stranger_n from_o the_o life_n of_o god_n such_o be_v the_o apostle_n paul_n before_o conversion_n such_o be_v israel_n rom._n 9_o 31._o which_o follow_v after_o the_o law_n of_o righteousness_n and_o do_v not_o attain_v to_o the_o law_n of_o righteousness_n who_o be_v ignorant_a of_o god_n righteousness_n do_v and_o go_a about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n do_v not_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n rom._n 10._o 3._o of_o this_o sort_n be_v such_o of_o the_o papist_n who_o go_v about_o to_o be_v justify_v by_o their_o own_o work_n and_o do_v but_o mock_v at_o the_o imputation_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n call_v it_o blasphemous_o a_o putatious_a or_o conceit_a righteousness_n not_o consider_v that_o the_o pope_n and_o his_o servant_n do_v reckon_v the_o imputation_n of_o the_o righteousness_n and_o merit_n of_o man_n and_o of_o the_o superfluity_n of_o the_o saint_n righteousness_n by_o reason_n of_o their_o work_n of_o supererogation_n to_o be_v worth_a a_o great_a sum_n of_o money_n as_o they_o find_v their_o merchant_n concern_v these_o five_o qualification_n some_o convert_n especial_o such_o as_o desire_v to_o see_v the_o evidence_n of_o save_a grace_n in_o those_o with_o who_o they_o will_v join_v in_o the_o society_n of_o church-membership_a may_v make_v question_n what_o to_o think_v whether_o they_o be_v save_v grace_n or_o common_a operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n 2._o for_o answer_v we_o must_v distinguish_v between_o a_o man_n judge_v of_o those_o qualification_n in_o himself_o and_o his_o judge_n of_o another_o in_o who_o these_o qualification_n appear_v to_o be_v for_o a_o man_n judge_v of_o himself_o may_v attain_v to_o a_o clear_a and_o certain_a discern_v of_o save_a grace_n in_o himself_o as_o the_o apostle_n give_v we_o to_o understand_v 1_o cor._n 2_o 11_o 12._o in_o which_o case_n of_o our_o judge_n of_o ourselves_o this_o much_o may_v be_v say_v that_o if_o a_o man_n find_v in_o himself_o those_o qualification_n join_v with_o faith_n in_o christ_n for_o righteousness_n and_o eternal_a life_n and_o be_v seek_v furniture_n from_o christ_n to_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n of_o his_o faith_n in_o new_a obedience_n he_o may_v be_v quiet_a and_o be_v out_o of_o doubt_n of_o save_a grace_n in_o himself_o for_o unto_o such_o a_o person_n the_o description_n of_o a_o true_a convert_n may_v safe_o be_v apply_v phil._n 3._o 3_o we_o be_v the_o circumcision_n etc._n etc._n and_o pre-suppose_a he_o have_v observe_v these_o qualification_n in_o himself_o before_o he_o have_v observe_v his_o close_n with_o christ_n or_o his_o application_n of_o the_o offer_n of_o reconciliation_n through_o he_o he_o neither_o need_v nor_o shall_v trouble_v himself_o or_o other_o with_o question_v whether_o such_o and_o such_o qualification_n in_o he_o before_o his_o fix_v on_o christ_n be_v the_o common_a or_o special_a operation_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o see_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n come_v not_o with_o observation_n always_o it_o be_v hard_o to_o determine_v of_o the_o first_o beginning_n of_o the_o work_n of_o save_a grace_n by_o the_o holy_a spirit_n because_o save_v faith_n have_v in_o it_o the_o substance_n of_o historical_a dogmatical_a and_o temporary_a faith_n and_o therefore_o when_o both_o save_a faith_n and_o historical_a dogmatical_a and_o temporary_a faith_n may_v produce_v belief_n of_o the_o law_n and_o convince_v the_o man_n of_o sin_n and_o wrath_n due_a for_o sin_n and_o produce_v the_o belief_n of_o the_o gospel_n also_o without_o application_n of_o the_o offer_n of_o reconciliation_n how_o shall_v a_o man_n determine_v whether_o these_o effect_n be_v produce_v by_o virtue_n of_o dogmatical_a and_o temporary_a faith_n or_o by_o virtue_n of_o save_a faith_n until_o the_o time_n that_o the_o humble_a sinner_n fly_v in_o unto_o christ_n and_o seek_v to_o draw_v furniture_n from_o he_o for_o new_a obedience_n of_o the_o law_n of_o love_n towards_o god_n and_o man_n and_o so_o put_v difference_n betwixt_o save_a faith_n and_o that_o faith_n which_o may_v be_v in_o a_o unregenerat_a and_o unreconciled_a man_n but_o when_o the_o man_n be_v come_v up_o to_o apply_v christ_n and_o cleave_v unto_o he_o for_o righteousness_n and_o life_n and_o furniture_n to_o carry_v he_o on_o the_o way_n unto_o salvation_n it_o be_v not_o his_o wisdom_n to_o dispute_v whether_o these_o
from_o the_o body_n of_o this_o death_n and_o while_o he_o search_v how_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o such_o a_o body_n of_o death_n lodge_v in_o the_o child_n of_o god_n and_o so_o powerful_a relic_n of_o sin_n remain_v in_o the_o justify_v man_n he_o can_v satisfy_v himself_o consider_v that_o god_n do_v hate_v sin_n and_o make_v the_o new_a creature_n hate_v it_o also_o which_o god_n can_v easy_o take_v away_o in_o a_o moment_n in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o convert_v reconciliation_n and_o justification_n 2._o for_o answer_v to_o this_o question_n if_o a_o reason_n of_o god_n permission_n of_o the_o relic_n of_o sin_n to_o remain_v in_o the_o saint_n all_o the_o day_n of_o their_o life_n be_v ask_v after_o a_o reason_n superior_a to_o the_o most_o holy_a will_n of_o god_n to_o permit_v it_o can_v none_o be_v give_v nor_o shall_v it_o be_v seek_v after_o but_o to_o quiet_v our_o mind_n in_o this_o case_n these_o follow_a consideration_n may_v suffice_v 1._o it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o the_o lord_n our_o god_n our_o wise_a and_o love_a physician_n to_o renew_v and_o restore_v his_o image_n in_o his_o child_n piece_n and_o piece_n till_o it_o be_v bring_v to_o perfection_n in_o all_o the_o lineament_n part_n and_o degree_n thereof_o and_o to_o heal_v our_o sinful_a sickness_n and_o infirmity_n not_o in_o a_o instant_n but_o by_o little_a and_o little_a as_o he_o see_v fit_a this_o way_n of_o bring_v his_o work_n to_o perfection_n by_o degree_n he_o keep_v in_o the_o creation_n of_o the_o world_n which_o he_o do_v not_o perfect_a in_o a_o moment_n but_o in_o six_o day_n so_o also_o the_o seed_n that_o be_v casten_z in_o the_o ground_n every_o year_n he_o do_v not_o bring_v forth_o to_o maturity_n for_o man_n use_n in_o less_o time_n than_o some_o month_n he_o do_v not_o form_n infant_n in_o the_o womb_n and_o bring_v they_o up_o to_o their_o appoint_a stature_n and_o strength_n in_o less_o time_n than_o a_o number_n of_o year_n and_o for_o the_o relic_n of_o sin_n how_o odious_a and_o loathsome_a soever_o they_o be_v in_o themselves_o yet_o he_o can_v in_o his_o deep_a wisdom_n make_v use_v thereof_o in_o a_o most_o holy_a way_n for_o the_o good_a of_o penitent_a convert_n for_o as_o it_o be_v fit_v that_o a_o difference_n shall_v be_v put_v between_o the_o militant_a church_n on_o earth_n and_o the_o triumphant_a in_o heaven_n so_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n wise_a will_n to_o exercise_v his_o militant_a child_n in_o conflict_v against_o sin_n and_o misery_n in_o this_o life_n that_o the_o next_o life_n and_o triumph_n over_o sin_n death_n and_o hell_n may_v be_v the_o sweet_a when_o it_o come_v and_o more_o desire_a till_o it_o come_v 2._o second_o as_o the_o lord_n after_o sub-duing_a of_o the_o canaanite_n do_v not_o forthwith_o cast_v they_o altogether_o out_o of_o the_o holy_a land_n but_o suffer_v a_o multitude_n of_o they_o to_o live_v for_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o israelite_n with_o warfare_n and_o for_o teach_v his_o people_n by_o their_o own_o experience_n that_o the_o victory_n which_o they_o have_v obtain_v over_o the_o canaanite_n be_v not_o purchase_v by_o their_o sword_n or_o bow_n but_o be_v give_v unto_o they_o from_o the_o lord_n of_o host_n who_o lead_v forth_o their_o army_n and_o prosper_v they_o so_o do_v he_o not_o abolish_v the_o relic_n of_o sin_n in_o his_o saint_n in_o this_o life_n after_o their_o conversion_n that_o they_o may_v know_v that_o the_o victory_n which_o they_o have_v receive_v over_o the_o devil_n the_o world_n and_o the_o flesh_n in_o their_o conversion_n be_v not_o to_o be_v ascribe_v to_o the_o power_n of_o their_o own_o freewill_n but_o unto_o god_n only_o for_o if_o the_o renew_a convert_n can_v overcome_v the_o relic_n of_o the_o break_a force_n of_o his_o spiritual_a adversary_n within_o he_o which_o his_o renew_a will_n will_v most_o earnest_o expel_v how_o can_v he_o give_v the_o glory_n of_o his_o victory_n over_o the_o devil_n and_o the_o world_n in_o his_o conversion_n unto_o the_o power_n of_o his_o corrupt_a and_o unrenewed_a freewill_n 3._o three_o it_o be_v require_v of_o all_o that_o come_v unto_o christ_n that_o they_o deny_v themselves_o take_v up_o their_o cross_n daily_o and_o follow_v he_o and_o to_o make_v they_o so_o do_v strong_a motive_n be_v daily_o furnish_v from_o the_o feel_n of_o the_o relic_n of_o sin_n in_o ourselves_o for_o how_o can_v a_o renew_a convert_n look_v upon_o his_o own_o ignorance_n error_n folly_n and_o vanity_n of_o his_o mind_n perverseness_n of_o his_o will_n impotency_n to_o good_a and_o propension_n unto_o all_o sin_n and_o not_o loathe_v himself_o and_o so_o be_v force_v to_o fly_v to_o christ_n the_o redeemer_n for_o relief_n 4._o the_o remainder_n of_o sin_n be_v a_o adversary_n to_o all_o virtue_n do_v furnish_v work_n to_o all_o the_o habit_n infuse_v by_o god_n for_o the_o daily_a exercise_n thereof_o according_a as_o inborn_a sin_n do_v put_v forth_o itself_o to_o the_o hindrance_n of_o faith_n love_n hope_v patience_n temperance_n etc._n etc._n but_o in_o special_a it_o serve_v to_o bear_v down_o pride_n and_o to_o foster_v humility_n for_o this_o do_v the_o experience_n of_o the_o apostle_n show_v 2_o cor._n 12._o 7._o lest_o i_o shall_v be_v exalt_v above_o measure_n through_o the_o abundance_n of_o the_o revelation_n there_o be_v give_v to_o i_o a_o thorn_n in_o the_o flesh_n 5._o nothing_o do_v more_o manifest_a the_o infirmity_n of_o the_o strong_a soldier_n of_o christ_n than_o the_o power_n of_o inborn_a sin_n bring_v forth_o in_o the_o conflict_n against_o the_o new_a creature_n no_o sharp_a spur_n to_o prayer_n and_o implore_v of_o god_n help_n than_o the_o feel_a power_n of_o the_o remainder_n of_o sin_n this_o also_o do_v the_o experience_n of_o the_o apostle_n teach_v we_o 2_o cor._n 12._o 8._o for_o this_o thing_n i_o beseech_v the_o lord_n thrice_o that_o it_o may_v depart_v from_o i_o 6._o how_o much_o the_o endurance_n of_o this_o conflict_n with_o the_o remainder_n of_o sin_n do_v serve_v to_o manifest_v the_o greatness_n of_o the_o lord_n power_n and_o largeness_n of_o his_o grace_n towards_o his_o weak_a soldier_n who_o he_o uphold_v and_o comfort_v in_o this_o conflict_n the_o answer_n which_o the_o lord_n give_v to_o the_o apostle_n prayer_n make_v manifest_a 2_o cor._n 12._o 9_o and_o he_o say_v unto_o i_o my_o grace_n be_v sufficient_a for_o thou_o for_o my_o strength_n be_v make_v perfect_a in_o weakness_n 7._o we_o be_v slow_a to_o believe_v dull_a to_o apprehend_v and_o learn_v that_o which_o the_o word_n of_o god_n tell_v we_o of_o the_o ugliness_n of_o the_o body_n of_o sin_n the_o perverse_a wickedness_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n the_o filthiness_n of_o the_o flesh_n the_o wile_n and_o deceitfulness_n of_o the_o old_a man_n and_o the_o enmity_n of_o our_o corrupt_a nature_n against_o god_n therefore_o in_o and_o by_o the_o frequent_a and_o renew_a conflict_n now_o with_o one_o lust_n then_o with_o another_o we_o be_v force_v by_o experience_n to_o learn_v the_o lesson_n more_o and_o more_o solid_o and_o believe_v the_o truth_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n speak_v of_o sin_n that_o be_v in_o we_o and_o to_o engage_v ourselves_o to_o prosecute_v the_o mortification_n of_o sin_n unto_o the_o death_n 8._o the_o renew_a experience_n of_o the_o power_n of_o sin_n in_o our_o flesh_n shall_v make_v we_o so_o much_o the_o more_o vigilant_a against_o it_o and_o daily_o to_o put_v on_o the_o whole_a armour_n of_o god_n because_o we_o must_v fight_v not_o only_o with_o the_o flesh_n but_o also_o with_o principality_n power_n and_o spiritual_a wickedness_n which_o take_v advantage_n of_o the_o sin_n that_o natural_o dwell_v in_o we_o ephes._n 6._o 11._o 12._o put_v on_o the_o whole_a armour_n of_o god_n for_o we_o wrestle_v not_o with_o flesh_n and_o blood_n to_o wit_n only_o 9_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o remainder_n of_o sin_n dwell_v in_o we_o serve_v to_o move_v we_o to_o pity_n and_o to_o have_v compassion_n on_o the_o child_n of_o adam_n and_o meek_o to_o restore_v our_o weak_a brethren_n who_o be_v overtake_v in_o any_o offence_n as_o the_o apostle_n do_v teach_v we_o tit._n 3._o 2._o show_v all_o meekness_n to_o all_o man_n for_o we_o ourselves_o also_o be_v sometime_o foolish_a disobedient_a deceive_v etc._n etc._n gal._n 6._o 1._o brethren_n if_o a_o man_n be_v overtake_v in_o a_o fault_n you_o which_o be_v spiritual_a restore_v such_o a_o one_o in_o the_o spirit_n of_o meekness_n consider_v thyself_o lest_o thou_o also_o be_v tempt_v 10._o last_o of_o all_o the_o permission_n of_o the_o relic_n or_o sin_n to_o remain_v in_o true_a convert_v all_o the_o day_n of_o their_o life_n do_v serve_v to_o decide_v the_o great_a controversy_n between_o
and_o not_o from_o the_o special_a operation_n and_o impulsion_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n 322_o 18._o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o true_a convert_n doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v regenerate_v because_o he_o find_v not_o self-denial_n in_o the_o measure_n which_o be_v requisite_a in_o convert_n 326_o 19_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n whether_o he_o be_v indeed_o convert_v arise_v from_o this_o that_o he_o know_v no_o child_n of_o god_n so_o hardly_o exercise_v as_o he_o be_v 329_o 20._o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o convert_n doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v convert_v because_o he_o do_v not_o find_v in_o himself_o the_o infallible_a mark_n of_o regeneration_n 331_o 21._o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n whether_o he_o be_v indeed_o convert_v because_o he_o can_v confident_o apply_v to_o himself_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n 335_o 22._o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n concern_v his_o conversion_n arise_v from_o the_o observation_n in_o himself_o of_o presumption_n and_o security_n in_o his_o prosperity_n and_o of_o his_o misbelief_n in_o adversity_n 341_o 23._o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o a_o true_a convert_v regeneration_n arise_v from_o some_o false_a rule_n apply_v without_o reason_n to_o himself_o 344_o 24._o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o convert_n doubt_v of_o his_o own_o conversion_n because_o he_o have_v find_v the_o deceitfulness_n of_o his_o own_o heart_n and_o dare_v not_o trust_v it_o any_o more_o 347_o 25._o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o true_a convert_v conversion_n arise_v from_o his_o breach_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n as_o he_o conceive_v 351_o 26._o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o true_a convert_n doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v regenerate_v because_o he_o find_v himself_o not_o only_o far_o from_o the_o measure_n of_o holiness_n which_o he_o observe_v to_o have_v be_v in_o the_o saint_n commend_v in_o scripture_n but_o also_o short_a of_o the_o measure_n which_o some_o of_o his_o acquaintance_n have_v attain_v unto_o 355_o 27._o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o true_a convert_n doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v in_o the_o bless_a state_n of_o grace_n because_o he_o find_v himself_o frequent_o in_o a_o evil_a condition_n 358_o 28._o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n concern_v his_o regeneration_n because_o he_o find_v the_o power_n of_o the_o body_n of_o death_n in_o the_o pollution_n of_o the_o imagination_n of_o his_o heart_n vigorous_a and_o powerful_a 362_o 29._o show_v how_o to_o quench_v the_o fiery_a dart_n of_o satan_n and_o resist_v his_o sinful_a suggestion_n whether_o of_o short_a endurance_n or_o of_o long_a continuance_n 364_o 30._o wherein_o be_v some_o mix_a case_n speak_v of_o whereunto_o the_o true_a convert_n be_v subject_a and_o so_o may_v fall_v to_o doubt_v of_o his_o conversion_n or_o interest_n in_o christ._n 369_o book_n iii_o 1._o concern_v some_o premise_n 376_o 2._o wherein_o be_v handle_v the_o case_n of_o such_o as_o be_v fall_v from_o their_o first_o love_n and_o be_v well_o please_v in_o this_o case_n 383_o 3._o concern_v the_o convert_n sinful_a connive_n at_o and_o tolerate_v of_o the_o error_n and_o transgression_n of_o other_o 387_o 4._o concern_v the_o case_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n fall_v asleep_a in_o carnal_a security_n under_o guiltiness_n of_o fleshly_a pollution_n and_o dream_v himself_o to_o be_v in_o no_o ill_a condition_n 390_o 5._o concern_v the_o convert_n please_v himself_o in_o his_o lukewarm_a condition_n 393_o 6._o concern_v such_o convert_n as_o lean_v unto_o the_o prop_n of_o carnal_a confidence_n and_o please_v themselves_o in_o this_o condition_n 395_o 7._o concern_v the_o case_n of_o the_o convert_n in_o some_o point_n of_o doctrine_n delude_v and_o please_v himself_o in_o this_o condition_n 410_o 8._o concern_v the_o convert_n conscience_n mistake_v vice_n for_o virtue_n and_o please_v himself_o in_o this_o condition_n 425_o 9_o of_o the_o case_n of_o conscience_n deal_v treacherous_o under_o preâ—ense_n of_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n 431_o 10._o of_o such_o as_o do_v please_v themselves_o in_o a_o condition_n not_o please_v god_n because_o they_o conceive_v they_o can_v pray_v well_o under_o any_o condition_n 439_o 11._o of_o the_o convert_n esteem_v the_o peace_n of_o god_n to_o be_v but_o a_o carnal_a security_n 442_o 12._o of_o the_o case_n of_o a_o convert_n take_v some_o act_n of_o justify_v faith_n to_o be_v high_a presumption_n in_o his_o person_n 445_o 13._o of_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o convert_n fear_v that_o the_o joy_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n which_o he_o have_v feel_v be_v find_v only_o to_o be_v either_o the_o joy_n of_o speculation_n common_a to_o temporal_a believer_n or_o a_o mere_a delusion_n 449_o 14._o of_o the_o convert_n suspect_v that_o his_o zeal_n for_o god_n and_o against_o the_o sin_n of_o other_o have_v be_v fleshly_a severity_n and_o imprudent_a temerity_n 454_o 15._o of_o the_o convert_n suspect_v his_o aim_v at_o circumspect_a walk_n shall_v be_v find_v in_o he_o scrupulosity_n 456_o 16._o concern_v the_o convert_n suspicion_n that_o his_o softness_n of_o heart_n be_v nothing_o but_o a_o natural_a disposition_n to_o weep_v upon_o any_o occasion_n 459_o 17._o concern_v the_o convert_n suspicion_n that_o all_o his_o devotion_n be_v but_o lip-labour_n which_o be_v not_o join_v with_o a_o tender_a and_o melt_a heart_n and_o with_o god_n sensible_a approbation_n 461_o 18._o concern_v the_o convert_n look_v upon_o the_o fight_n of_o his_o faith_n as_o if_o it_o be_v the_o fail_n of_o his_o faith_n 466_o 19_o concern_v the_o convert_n straighten_v his_o charity_n towards_o other_o more_o than_o he_o do_v at_o the_o first_o time_n of_o his_o conversion_n conceive_v his_o former_a large_a charity_n be_v unwarrantable_a folly_n 469_o 20._o concern_v the_o convert_n mistake_v his_o condition_n because_o of_o fâ—lt_n in-lake_n in_o his_o charity_n and_o love_n to_o god_n and_o man_n 474_o 21._o concern_v the_o convert_n despise_v of_o his_o own_o exercise_n of_o religion_n because_o of_o his_o feel_a vanity_n of_o mind_n therein_o 476_o 22._o corcern_v the_o convert_v discouragement_n for_o feel_a want_n of_o ability_n to_o do_v the_o duty_n command_v whereunto_o his_o renew_a will_n be_v very_a beut_n 479_o 23._o concern_v the_o convert_n imprudent_a censure_n of_o himself_o for_o feel_v ingratitude_n 480_o 24._o concern_v the_o convert_n imprudent_a censure_n of_o himself_o for_o his_o feel_a impatiency_n in_o bear_v lesser_a trouble_n after_o his_o patient_a bear_n of_o great_a trouble_n 484_o 25._o concern_v the_o convert_n mistake_v his_o case_n for_o want_v of_o such_o a_o submission_n unto_o god_n exercise_v of_o he_o as_o he_o will_v have_v 485_o 26._o concern_v the_o convert_n mistake_v of_o his_o condition_n because_o of_o temptation_n 487_o 27._o concern_v the_o convert_n mistake_v his_o condition_n when_o he_o do_v observe_v some_o degree_n of_o god_n desert_v he_o 491_o 28._o concern_v case_n wherein_o the_o convert_n be_v in_o doubt_n what_o to_o determine_v about_o his_o condition_n 493_o to_o the_o reader_n be_v please_v to_o take_v notice_n that_o book_n 3_o chap._n 2._o page_n 383._o these_o word_n the_o first_o rank_n shall_v be_v of_o some_o case_n wherein_o the_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n shall_v be_v join_v with_o the_o word_n follow_v and_o of_o the_o same_o character_n with_o they_o as_o be_v the_o beginning_n of_o the_o say_a chapter_n and_o no_o part_n of_o the_o title_n thereof_o likewise_o in_o number_v the_o page_n thou_o will_v find_v after_o 256._o in_o the_o next_o page_n 235_o for_o 257._o any_o other_o mistake_v that_o occur_v as_o in_o the_o mis-placing_a change_v defect_n or_o superfluity_n of_o letter_n figure_n or_o note_n of_o distinction_n be_v please_v to_o pardon_v see_v there_o will_v be_v few_o or_o none_o of_o any_o moment_n finis_fw-la
of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n through_o christ_n in_o all_o his_o tentation_n he_o can_v stand_v out_o in_o the_o conflict_n therefore_o that_o he_o may_v guard_v and_o strengthen_v his_o say_v first_o let_v he_o seek_v wisdom_n from_o god_n to_o expound_v the_o lord_n dispensation_n towards_o himself_o by_o the_o word_n and_o work_n of_o god_n in_o his_o child_n set_v down_o in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n in_o exercise_v of_o who_o by_o affliction_n he_o have_v discover_v the_o corruption_n of_o their_o nature_n the_o bitter_a fruit_n of_o sin_n and_o promove_v the_o work_n of_o the_o mortification_n of_o sinful_a lust_n that_o be_v in_o the_o world_n to_o wit_n the_o lust_n of_o the_o eye_n the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o pride_n of_o life_n and_o teach_v they_o humility_n meekness_n patience_n temperance_n and_o compassion_n towards_o other_o in_o affliction_n second_o let_v he_o set_v his_o affection_n on_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o on_o our_o bless_a redeemer_n jesus_n christ_n who_o be_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o father_n make_v intercession_n for_o all_o they_o that_o call_v upon_o he_o that_o they_o may_v be_v save_v always_o remember_v that_o as_o the_o law_n be_v a_o pedagogue_n to_o lead_v we_o and_o draw_v we_o unto_o christ_n so_o affliction_n be_v a_o pedagogue_n to_o lead_v we_o to_o the_o law_n and_o to_o christ_n the_o end_n of_o the_o law_n for_o righteousness_n and_o life_n three_o let_v he_o learn_v in_o examination_n of_o his_o own_o condition_n accurat_o to_o distinguish_v the_o lord_n part_v exercise_v he_o with_o trouble_n for_o trial_n and_o train_v he_o on_o in_o the_o obedience_n of_o faith_n as_o for_o his_o own_o glory_n so_o for_o the_o good_a of_o his_o afflict_a child_n and_o satan_n part_n in_o cruelty_n craftiness_n and_o malice_n tempt_v and_o and_o vex_v he_o and_o his_o own_o part_n who_o have_v deserve_v much_o more_o affliction_n than_o be_v come_v upon_o he_o which_o consideration_n may_v keep_v he_o from_o fret_v and_o murmur_v in_o his_o trouble_n how_o heavy_a soever_o it_o be_v four_o let_v he_o put_v difference_n between_o sin_v and_o suffer_v of_o trouble_n that_o he_o may_v choose_v to_o endure_v affliction_n rather_o than_o by_o sin_v draw_v on_o much_o more_o trouble_n 3._o but_o if_o the_o afflict_a convert_n seem_v to_o himself_o desert_v of_o god_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o special_a operation_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n let_v he_o be_v of_o good_a courage_n he_o be_v not_o altogether_o desert_v who_o can_v observe_v the_o decay_a of_o save_a grace_n from_o the_o measure_n he_o have_v find_v before_o he_o be_v not_o altogether_o desert_v who_o love_v communion_n with_o god_n and_o long_v after_o it_o and_o can_v go_v to_o god_n and_o regrat_a his_o desertion_n as_o a_o sad_a affliction_n for_o if_o our_o love_a lord_n jesus_n christ_n have_v withdraw_v himself_o out_o of_o the_o sight_n of_o his_o afflict_a child_n yet_o have_v he_o presume_a his_o own_o footstep_n with_o the_o unction_n of_o his_o own_o spirit_n that_o he_o may_v quicken_v and_o kindle_v his_o child_n love_n and_o desire_v towards_o he_o this_o regret_v desertion_n be_v but_o in_o part_n not_o altogether_o yea_o it_o be_v not_o a_o real_a but_o a_o seem_a desertion_n the_o lord_n rest_v in_o his_o love_n albeit_o he_o hide_v the_o effect_n of_o his_o love_n for_o a_o time_n he_o preserve_v the_o habit_n of_o save_a grace_n as_o his_o own_o seed_n in_o the_o afflict_a heart_n albeit_o he_o do_v not_o always_o draw_v they_o forth_o unto_o action_n if_o he_o withdraw_v the_o sight_n of_o save_v grace_n yet_o he_o augment_v the_o estimation_n of_o they_o and_o langour_n to_o find_v the_o lord_n work_v in_o he_o if_o the_o afflict_a observe_v well_o he_o shall_v see_v the_o hand_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o some_o part_n of_o his_o work_n so_o that_o in_o his_o hard_a condition_n he_o may_v say_v with_o the_o psalmist_n ps._n 73._o nevertheless_o i_o be_o continual_o with_o thou_o thou_o hold_v i_o with_o thy_o right_a hand_n 4._o if_o it_o shall_v please_v god_n with_o immediate_a affliction_n from_o himself_o to_o suffer_v not_o only_a satan_n to_o fight_v against_o the_o faith_n and_o consolation_n of_o his_o child_n but_o also_o to_o superadd_a a_o fiery_a trial_n of_o his_o faith_n by_o cruel_a persecution_n for_o righteousness_n let_v he_o still_o for_o all_o this_o be_v of_o good_a courage_n because_o in_o all_o such_o battle_n be_v the_o lord_n of_o host_n shall_v be_v with_o he_o who_o will_v not_o suffer_v his_o soldier_n to_o be_v tempt_v above_o their_o strength_n but_o with_o the_o tentation_n will_v give_v a_o issue_n that_o they_o may_v escape_v and_o will_v furnish_v strength_n to_o they_o that_o they_o shall_v overcome_v for_o he_o have_v lay_v up_o a_o crown_n of_o righteousness_n for_o all_o they_o that_o keep_v the_o faith_n and_o at_o last_o will_v give_v it_o to_o all_o that_o love_v the_o come_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n wherefore_o let_v the_o afflict_a convert_n humble_v himself_o under_o one_o or_o all_o these_o exercise_n and_o not_o doubt_v of_o his_o condition_n see_v it_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o scripture_n and_o lot_n of_o the_o saint_n 5._o it_o be_v true_a that_o all_o affliction_n to_o the_o flesh_n for_o the_o present_a be_v a_o bitter_a potion_n but_o yet_o reach_v forth_o to_o the_o patient_a by_o the_o hand_n of_o our_o physician_n and_o heavenly_a father_n it_o be_v a_o fire_n but_o will_v not_o consume_v the_o burn_a bush_n it_o be_v a_o furnace_n but_o will_v not_o destroy_v any_o metal_n but_o dross_n only_o it_o be_v a_o labour_n but_o shall_v in_o due_a time_n bring_v forth_o the_o quiet_a fruit_n of_o righteousness_n it_o be_v a_o rough_a file_n but_o the_o more_o sharp_a it_o be_v it_o shall_v so_o much_o soon_o rub_v away_o the_o rust_n of_o the_o vessel_n of_o grace_n make_v the_o soul_n of_o the_o penitent_a more_o bright_a and_o by_o the_o blessing_n of_o god_n render_v he_o more_o humble_a in_o his_o thought_n more_o fervent_a in_o prayer_n mor_n constant_a in_o the_o faith_n more_o strong_a to_o bear_v whatsoever_o burden_n shall_v be_v lay_v on_o he_o more_o desirous_a to_o grow_v in_o all_o virtue_n more_o careful_a to_o keep_v communion_n with_o god_n more_o innocent_a in_o his_o conversation_n more_o clean_a in_o his_o conscience_n and_o at_o last_o more_o bless_v let_v not_o then_o the_o afflict_a convert_n regard_v the_o labour_n he_o be_v put_v to_o but_o look_v to_o the_o fruit_n reckon_v the_o worth_n of_o heal_v and_o not_o the_o bitterness_n of_o his_o potion_n let_v he_o not_o look_v to_o the_o pain_n of_o the_o affliction_n but_o to_o the_o fatherly_a love_n of_o god_n chastise_v he_o who_o express_o have_v tell_v we_o that_o he_o chasten_v all_o who_o he_o love_v lest_o they_o perish_v with_o the_o world_n let_v he_o not_o shift_v the_o battle_n but_o set_v his_o eye_n on_o the_o crown_n and_o go_v on_o in_o the_o way_n of_o god_n how_o many_o soever_o his_o tribulation_n shall_v be_v for_o as_o the_o outward_a man_n by_o trouble_n do_v decay_v so_o the_o inward_a man_n be_v renew_v daily_o for_o the_o apostle_n who_o who_o be_v most_o acquaint_v with_o such_o exercise_n have_v for_o encouragement_n of_o all_o who_o be_v under_o the_o cross_n say_v our_o light_a affliction_n which_o be_v but_o for_o a_o moment_n work_v for_o we_o a_o far_o more_o exceed_a and_o eternal_a weight_n of_o glory_n while_o we_o look_v not_o at_o the_o thing_n which_o be_v see_v but_o at_o the_o thing_n which_o be_v not_o see_v for_o the_o thing_n which_o be_v see_v be_v temporal_a but_o the_o thing_n which_o be_v not_o see_v be_v eternal_a 2_o cor._n 4._o 17_o 18._o the_o seventeen_o and_o last_o question_n shall_v be_v about_o the_o relic_n of_o sin_n in_o the_o saint_n in_o this_o life_n the_o remainder_n of_o sin_n do_v oftentime_o drive_v true_a convert_n to_o many_o doubt_n for_o when_o carnal_a lust_n and_o sinful_a passion_n seem_v to_o be_v subdue_v and_o in_o a_o good_a measure_n mortify_v incontinent_a upon_o the_o least_o occasion_n as_o die_v ash_n when_o sulphureous_a powder_n be_v cast_v upon_o they_o they_o kindle_v and_o be_v inflame_v and_o when_o their_o spirit_n be_v most_o willing_a and_o ready_a to_o do_v good_a corrupt_a nature_n stand_v up_o and_o make_v opposition_n so_o that_o the_o coâ—vert_n can_v do_v the_o good_a he_o will_v yea_o such_o be_v the_o power_n thereof_o that_o ofttimes_o it_o force_v he_o to_o the_o ill_a he_o will_v not_o in_o which_o warfare_n be_v oft_o overcome_v he_o be_v so_o weary_a that_o he_o fall_v out_o with_o the_o apostle_n in_o his_o lamentation_n rom._n 7._o 24_o cry_v o_o miserable_a man_n that_o i_o be_o who_o shall_v deliver_v i_o