our selves appearing before the Judg in visible glory on his Throne How many do go up and down the world as if such a thing should never be How do men walk in the wayes of their heart and in the prejem sight of their eyes as if they had never heard â—r known that for all these things God will bâ—ing them into judgment Yea which of us have not need to learn this principle of the Oracles of God for this is one of the first and maâ—n principles Heb. 6.1 2. viz. Eternal Iudgment Hence all manner of helps this way are but needfull and every help herein should be highly prized And it is observable that Divine Providence hath so disposed that two or three Treatises should be published among us looking this way Mr. Shepard on the Parable of the Virgins Mr. Wigglesworth's Poem And now this present Treatise as intimating that We in this wilderness where worldly cares and pleasures are apt to overcharge us have more then ordinary need of that warning to take heed of forgetting this great Day of our Lords second Coming and to Watch and Pray alwayes in preparation thereunto Christ himself when here on Earth saw meet to insist largely and particularly upon this Subject as in the Scripture handled in the ensuing Sermons and other places doth appear The Last Day is a word that was often in Christs own Mouth Iohn 6.39 40 54 c. And so those Holy men of God that have had most of the Spirit of Christ in them have been much in meditation upon and in calling others to mind this great Truth of the Judgment to come Paul scarce passeth any one Epistle without expresse mentioning somewhat of it see Rom. 2.5 and 14 10. 1 Cor. 4.3 5. 2 Cor. 5.10 Eph. 5.30 Philip. 16 10. and 2.16 and 3.20 21 Colos 3.4 1 Thes 3.13 and 4.16 17. 2 Thes 1.7 -10. 1 Tim. 6.14 15. 2 Tim. 4.1 8. Titus 2.13 Heb. 9.27 28. And the same may be said of the other Apostles See Iames 5.3 7 8 9 1 Pet. 1.7 and 4.5 and 5.4 2 Pet. 2.9 and 3.4 -12. 1 Iohn 3.2 and 4.17 Iude 6 14 15 24. Neither were it difficult to make out the like Observation concerning the Lords Choicest Servants in the Ordinary Ministry both Ancient and Moderne whose Mindes and Mouthes have been full of this Truth The Reverend Author of these ensueing Sermont according to the precious measure of the Grace and Spirit of Christ bestowed upon him being one that lives as much in another world as most that are alive in this hath here given us a tâ—ste of his holy Meditations upon this subject which will be very acceptable to the intellâ—gent and serious Reader The Notes are short and concise as being but the heads of what was prepared for preaching without the least thought of ever publishing any of them And the Authors present paiâ—full infirmity of body suffereth not any revisall or inlargement thereof But the Reader will find this advantage to have much in a little room and to le easily furnished with variety of matter worthy of meditation for want of which many times men read much and digest little Diekion in Epistbefore the second part of Expos of the Psalms It is a good saying of one that the Reading of many diverse heads without some interlaced meditations is like eating of Marrow without bread But he that shall take time to Pause upon what he reads especially where great Truths are but in a few words hinted at with intermixed meditations and ejaculations suitable to the maâ—ter in hand shall find such Truths concisely delivered to be like marrow and fatness whereof a little goes far and does feed and nourish much And as the Lord giveth Variety of Gifts and wayes both in Preaching and Writing wherein the manifold Wisdome and Grace of God is not a little seen so they are all for profit and there is some singular excellency and use to be observed in each of them Neither will the Reader find this subject and the Truths pointed to in this Scripture any where so particularly and distinctly opened and applyed as in the following Sermons The Lord who hath guided and inclined the Heart of this holy and now aged Servant of his out of Love to Christ and to the Souls of men to permit the publishing of these his Labours Blesse them to the good of many that when he shall have put off this Tabernacle these things may be had in remembrance to help on others after him so to run the same race of Faith and Love as they may obtain the same prize and crown of Eternal glory at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his Saints In whom we are The Friends and Servants of all that love Him in sincerity John Wilson Senior Jonathan Mitchell A DISCOURSE OF THE LAST JUDGEMENT ON MATTH 25.31 to the end Verse 31. When the Son of man shall come in his glory and all the holy Angels with him then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory 32 And before him shall be gathered all Nations and he shall separate them one from another as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats 33 And he shall set the sheep on his right hand but the goats on the left 34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand Come ye blessed of my Father inherit the kingdome prepared for you from the foundation of the world 35 For I was an hungred and ye gave me meat I was thirsty and ye gave me drink I was a stranger and ye took me in 36 Naked and ye clothed me I was sick and ye visited me I was in prison and ye came unto me 37 Then shall the righteous answer him saying Lord when saw me thee an hungred and fed thee or thirsty and gave thee drink 38 When saw we thee a stranger and took thee in or maked and clothed thee 39 Or when saw we thee sick or in prison and came unto thee 40 And the King shall answer and say unto them Verily I say unto you In as much as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren ye bare done it unto me 41 Then shall he also say unto them on the left hand Depart from me ye cursed into everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels 42 For I was an hungred and ye gave me no meat I was thirsty and ye gave me no drink 43 I was a stranger and ye took me not in naked and ye 〈◊〉 me not sick and in prison and ye visited me not 44 Then shall they also answer him saying Lord when saw we thee an hungred or athirst or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison and did not minister unto thee 45 Then shall be answer them saying Verily I say unto you In as much as ye did it not to one of the least of these ye did it not to me 46 And these shall go
seems to put between his own and others as Eccles 9.2 he will put a difference at that day 3. Against all the Slanders that are cast upon them it will be well enough known what they are when the separation day comes 4. Against the hypocritical censures of false ones against the righteous Jam. 3.1 Ver. 32. And he shall set the sheep on his right hand c. Doct. VI. is this That the Lord reckons of his Elect 〈◊〉 his sheep and of Reprobates as goats We will speak of the first Branch first That the Elect are sleep so they are often called Job 10 3 4 11 14 26 27. For opening of which let me shew 1. In what respects they may be said to be sheep 2. Why his sheep 3. The Uses For the first They may be said to be Sheep in sundry respects 1 In that they are marked out for so are other sheep marked and so are these Iohn 10.14 27. 2 Tim 2.19 2. Sheep are meek and milde Isay 53.7 dumb when before the shearers when in the Butchers hands So was the Shepherd and so are they Psal 44.21 2 Chron 24.21 22. 3. Sheep are serviceable to the owner with their milk and with their wool and with their increase So are the elect Saints Acts 13.36 Rom. 1.9 Acts 26.7 4. Sheep are easily ruled by the voyce and whistle of the shepherd So are the Lords elect ones easily ruled a word from his mouth rules them Iohn 10.27 5. Sheep of all other creatures are most simple and unable to defend themselves Mat 10.16 and most subject to be made a prey of So the Saints Heb 11.35 36 37. 6. Sheep are most acure and exact in knowing their shepherd so the elect Saints are very skilful in knowing Christ Iohn 10.14 7. Sheep have nothing in them but is of use their very dung is not excepted So all of the Saints is of use even that that is the worst of them their afflictions their Sinnes 8. Sheep when they are killed they are wholy for their Masters use so the Saints when killed are wholy for their Masters use and service then they are wholy for him though their bodies be unserviceable yet in their soules they are most serviceable Hebr. 12.23 9. Sheep keep together and feed together so doe the Saints love to be together Act. 2.44 Mal. 3.16 10. Sheep doe then most flock together in stormy times so doe the Saints they are most together at such times love one another best then Mal. 3.16.11 Sheep are very obnoxious to be devoured and spoiled by dogs and wolves so the Saints Mat 7.15 Act. 28.29 12. Sheep are subject to great scattering so the Elect to be scattered by persecution Act. 8.4 Jam. 1.1 1 Pet. 1.1 Q. 2. In what sence are they his sheep Ans 1. He hath bought and purchased them 1. Cor. 6. ult 2. He hath marked them out for himselfe 3. He leadeâ— them Joh. 10. 4. He knowes them Joh. 10.14 5. He laid down his life for them Joh. 10.11 6. He rules them by his rod and staffe 7. He feeds them and causes them to lie down c. Psal 23.1 2. 8. He tenders them Isai 40.11 9 He preserves them in dangers Psal 23.4 10. He sets his dogs upon them Satan and his Instruments Vse 1. for Information 1. We see that the Lord will not let his Elect want pasture Psal 23.1 2. John 10.9 he will feed their soules with spirituall food Ezek. 34.14 2. We see a reason why they are so apt to wander and goe astray so doe other sheep and so doe they Psal 119. ult Isai 53.6 3. We see a reason why he will reduce them and gather them from their wanderings they are his sheep and he will reduce them from their erring paths Ezek. 34.12 4. We see why he gives such charge to his Ministers to feed them they are his sheep John 21.15 16 17. 2 Tim. 4.1 2. 1 Pet. 5.1 2. 5. We see that surely the Lord will safely fold them up in his church here and in the kingdome of glory hereafter Ezek 34. Hebr. 12.23 and that 's a good fold indeed 6. We see that he will surely gather the scattered of the Jewes together though they have been so long dispersed John 10.16 2 Cor 3.16 Hos 3. ult Rom. 11.25 26. 7. We see the mercy of the Lord towards us â—nd the freeness of his grace in that be hath passed by so many thousands of Men and Angels and hath made us the subjects of his Electing love made us his sheep when there are so many reprobate goats Ephes 1.3 4. 8. We see a reason of the patient suffering of the Saints in all ages 9. We see how precious the Saints should be to us they are his chosen flock and the sheep of his Pasture 10. We see the miserable condition of those that are cruel to the Saints and kill them they shall one day know whose sheep they were that they have been thus cruel to Vse 2 for Humiliation 1. That we do so little resemble sheep 2. That we are rather woolves then sheep one to another makeing a prey one of another 3. That we are so ignorant in not discerning sheep from goates goates froÌ„ sheep Vse 3. for Exhortation 1. To hear the voice of our bleised shepherd John 10.27 2. To follow him who goes before us and to be content to be led by him ibid. 3. To be of a meek and patient spirit in all our sufferings as becomes the sheep of Christ Hebr. 12.1 2 3. 4. To feed in our green pâ—stures and to thrive under the meanes God afford 2 Pet. 3.18 5. To be thankfull that he folds us in his Church here Psal 23. ult 6. To long to bee folded up in glory 7. To pity those that want means that are faint and scattered as sheep without a shepherd Mat. 9.36 8. To beware of woolves in sheeps clothing Mat. 7.15 sheep know one another 9. To converse together much especially in evill times Mal. 3.16 Act. 2.42 44. 10. To be harmeless as sheep are Phil. 2.15 Vse 4. for Consolation 1. That he will not see any of them lost John 6.29 10.28 2. That the Lord will be very tender over them Isai 40.11 3. He will save them from dogs and wolves and all that would prey upon them and devour them 4. That he will gather them together into one blessed fold the whole company of his Elect ones Having finished the first branch of the sixth Doctrine That the Lord reckons of the Elect as his Sheep It remaines that we come to the second part That the Reprebates are goats For the opening of which let me shew 1. In what respects they may be said to be goats 2. The Uses For the first They may be said to be goats in many respects 1. Goats are refractory and unruly creatures all that know them know this by them So are wicked men and reprobates of refractory and unruly spirits will not be
Why they shall be so accounted of and rewarded 3. The Uses For the first Those works of Mercy and Bounty must be 1. For their Rise Fruits of the Spirit which is the principal Efficient of them and Fruits of Faith the instrumental Efficient of them Gal. 5.22 6. 2. For the Person that works them he must be a righteous and good man Mat. 7.17 18. 12.34 35. otherwise all the seeming good worâ—s that others do are but shining sins 3. For the Ground of them 1. They must be done with respect to the commandment of God for if that be not eyed and regarded that we do what we do out of obedience to the commandment of God all is nothing 2 Cor. 9.13 Heb. 13.16 2. Out of love to Christ in his Saints so the Text. 3. Out of love to the Saints 1 Cor. 13.3 4. Out of humility for our fruit is from him not from our selves Hos 14.8 John 15.5 5. With respect to the Pattern Luke 6.36 4. For the manner of Performance of them 1. They must be performed with readiness of minde 1 Tim. 6.17 18. 2. With a willing heart ibid. 3. With cheerfulness 2 Cor. 9.7 Rom. 12.8 4. With simplicity Rom. 12.8 5. With liberality 1 Tim. 6.17 18. Prov. 11.24 25. Isa 32.8 2 Cor. 8.1 2. Eccles 11.1 2 3. 6. With speed 1 John 3.17 Gal. 6.10 Prov. 3.27 28. 7. With unweariedness Gal. 6.9 8. With abundance of compassion Isa 58.11 9. With secrecy Mat 6.3 1. 5. For the End of them 1. They must be performed with an holy aim at the glory of God John 15.8 Mat. 5.16 Philip. 1.11 we must not aim at our own glory in them Mat. 6.1 2. 2. They must be performed with an eye to their good that we shew mercy to 1 Tim. 6.18 Luke 6.36 Tit 3.8 3. They must be done with an eye to the honour of the Gospel Tit. 3.14 4. They may be done with an eye to our own good 1 Tim. 6.17 18 19. Eccles 11.1 Luke 6.38 Q. 2. Why shall they be so highly accounted of and rewarded at that day Ans 1. From the Promise of Christ Mat. 6.4 2. From the Lords love that he beareth to such 2 Cor. 9 7. 3. From the delight he takes in such services Heb. 13.16 4. From the nature of them they are sacrifices ibid. 5. From the honour and glory he has by them 2 Cor. 9.11 12. 6. From the resemblance that such have to him Ps 119.68 Luk. 6.35 7. From the Saints nearness to him who are relieved so the Text. 8. From that in Mic. 6.8 to love mercy is good in Gods account Vse 1. for Information 1. We see that Popish works that were not qualified as we have spoken for Rise Person Grounds Manner Ends cannot be called Good Works not shall have any acceptance with God or reward from him at that day 2. We see what a great grace it is to be of a truly merciful and bountiful spirit for the time will be that the works that such perform shall be highly accounted of and rewarded at that day 3. We see that on the contrary unmerciful ones shall be of no account nor have any reward at that day Jam 2.13 4. We see what high account we should have of the works of mercy for Christ will have them in high account at the great day 5. We see what great reason we have to be forward in works of Mercy and Bounty for he will highly account of them and reward them at that day 6. We see why we should provoke one another to love and to good works Heb. 10 24. 7. We see what an high price the Lord sets upon Faith when as he accounts so highly of the fruits of it 2 Pet. 1.1 8. We see what an high account we should have of what Christ hath done for us in that Bountiful Charitable and Merciful work of his in giving his life for us we can never enough prize it and admire it 1 John 4.9 10. 9. We see the marvellous grace of the Lord Jesus that he will so highly account of any thing we do this way Alas we deserve that he should loath us and all we do 10. We see that if our works of mercy be so accounted of by him Oh what account should we set upon his Mercy in Spiritual Temporal and Eternal things Vse 2. for Humiliation 1. That we are so hardly drawn to come off with works of Bounty and Mercy to his poor ones 1 John 3.17 2. To those that consider not the loss of merciful men Isa 57.1 Vse 3. for Terrour 1. To those that are cruel to them 2. To those that are Hypocrites Jam. 2.14 c. Vse 4. for Exhortation 1. To be of a merciful spirit and to love mercy Luke 6.36 Micah 6.8 we shall not be losers by it 2. To encourage others in a way of mercy 3. To hope the best of merciful men though we cannot see so much in other things as we desire 4. To those that are merciful to long for that day for it will be then well with them 5. To grow up in works of mercy more and more 1 Thess 4.9 10. 6. To be unwearied in works of mercy Gal. 6.9 7. To be patterns of Bounty and Mercy Job 31 16-22 8. To admire the Lords mercy that he should so farre respect any thing that we do Vse 5. for Consolation 1. Against our many failings in our best works 2. Against the want of clear apprehensions of Gods love and favour Works of Mercy are fruits of Faith and will be highly prized at that day 3. Against others hard conceits of us look we to a spirit of Bounty and Mercy and if we be sincere therein Christ will own us Vers 35 36. For I was an hungred and ye gave me meat c. Doct. XVII is this That the Lord doth sympathize with and is sensible of the wants that his people undergo in Meat and Drink and Clothing and Lodging and of their Sicknesses and Imprisonments that they are cost into We will speak of them in order And first speak of His sensibleness of their want of Meat and Drink I was hungry I was thirsty For opening of which let me shew 1. How it does appear that he is sensible of their want of Meat and Drink 2. Why. 3. The Uses For the first It does appear that He is sensible of their want of Meat and Drink 1. In that he complains of his own hunger and thirst in theirs I was hungry c. as if he should say It was not so much they as I that have suffered want in them Look as he said Acts 9.4 so here 2. In that be takes it kindly as if it were done to himself when these wants of theirs are supplied so the Text which he could not do if he were not very sensible of these their wants 3. In that be takes it marvellous offensively when these wants are not supplied by those that know of them and
have ability and opportunity to do it and takes this unkindness as done to himself so the Text. 4. In that he puts it into the hearts of some to supply their wants though some be hard-hearted and will not as Nabal 1 Sam. 25.10 11. yet he makes others tender-hearted Prov. 11 2â— Psal 112.5 9. 5. In that when they are in greatest extremity he sends in relief to them 1 Kings 17.3 4 9 10 11 12 c. Judges 15.18 19. 6. In that rather then they shall want he will send them away out of places of scarcity to some other Land where they may have supply 2 Kings 8.1 2. 7. In that he brings in supplies unexpectedly 2 Kin. 7. the whole Chapter Thus to Merlin in the Hay mow and to the Rocheâ—ers by supplying them with abundance of Shell-fish when straitly besieged 8. In that he hath compassion on them in their wants Mat. 15.32 9 In that he satisfies and fills them when he makes provision for them Mat. 25.37 10. In that he gives them Meat sometimes by Creatures of a devouring nature 1 Kings 17.6 Judges 14.8 9. Q. 2. Why is he that sensible of their wants Ans 1. From himself 2. From them From himself 1. He is a merciful one 2. He has promised that they shall have enough Job 5.20 22. Psal 37.19 3. He is their Shepherd and therefore tenderly sensible of their wants Psal 23.1 4. He is the blessed entertainer of them ver 5. 5. He is their Head Ephes 5 30. Col. 1.18 6. He is a Father to them Heb. 2.13 7. He feeds the beasts and fowls Psal 147.9 145.15 16. 2. From them 1. They are near to him Psal 148.14 2. They are his Brethren so the Text. 3. They are great Heirs so the Text Luke 12.32 4. They seek their daily bread of him Mat. 6.11 5. They need these things Mat. 6.32 6. They fear him Psal 34.9 10. 111.5 7. They are in Covenant with him ibid. Vse 1. for Information 1. We see what a tender-hearted one the Lord Jesus is to his Saints that cannot see them want Meat and Drink but is sensible of it and suffers in it If he be hungry in our hunger and athirst when we want Drink surely he is a tender-hearted one indeed 2. We see how sensible we should be of any dishonour that is done to his Name by our selves or others we should suffer with him in it as he said sometimes himself Psal 69.9 with Rom. 15.3 so should it be with us Christs reproaches should be our reproaches if he suffer with us we may well suffer with him 3. We see that sure he will be much more sensible of our Spiritual wants Mat. 9.36 37 38. Isa 41.17 18. 4. We see that he cannot chuse but be very senâ—ible of our temptations Heb. 2.18 4.15 5. We see that hunger and thirst may be the better born for we are not alone in the suffering but Christ suffers with us and if it be Solamen miseris socios habuisse doloris much more may it chear us that we have such a companion as Christ is 6. We see how sensible we should be of the Saints wants and how we our selves should suffer in them and sympathize with them for so does Christ and we should be of his spirit 7. We see how contrary they are to the Spirit of Christ that are cruel to those that want these will give them nothing spare nothing of what they have to relieve them But of that more hereafter 8. We see how sensible we should be of their condition that want Christ the Bread of Life John 6 48. that Fountain of living water Jer. 2.13 Cant. 4.15 9. We see how wonderfully the Lord Jesus condescends to his Saints that he will sympathize with them in their want of Meat and Drink Oh how low does he stoop to us in this Isa 113.5 6. 10. We see what Patterns of Mercy and tender-heartedness we should be to those that want these things after Christs example 11. We see the truth of that in Isa 63.9 that in all our affliction he is afflicted 12. We see that Christs heart in Heaven is towards his Saints he hath lost none of his bowels by going thither Vse 2. for Humiliation 1. That we are apt to be so impatient in these wants when as Christ suffers with us 2. That we are too insensible when he susters 3. That we look up too little to Christ for supplies 4. That we do not follow that Rule John 6.27 Vse 3. for Exhortation 1. To poor ones to be content in such a condition for Christ suffers with you Philip. 4.11 12. 2. To hunger and thirst more after Christ this will quench our bodily hunger and thirst Mat. 5.6 John 4.10 3. To look up unto the Lord for daily bodily supplies for he is very sensible of our wants Prov. 30 8. Mat. 6.11 4. To all to be of a compassionate spirit to those that are in want for so is Christ 1 Pet. 3.8 5. To rejoyce in our wants for we have a blessed companion that is wanting with us 6. To be thankful to the Lord Jesus who sympathizeth thus with us 7. To love him that out of love thus suffers with us 8. To suffer in all his sufferings 9. To long for the time when we shall hunger no more neither thirst any more Rev. 7.16 17. 10. To draw out our souls to the hungry Isa 58.10 11. To be patient in our wants this way Vse 4. for Consolation 1. That bodily want of Meat and Drink is no other thing then may befall Christs own Saints 2. That though it be a burthen Christ easeth it to his Saints 3. That he will make supplies that is so sensible of them 4. That he will much more supply other wants 5. That he will satisfie the longing soul Psa 107.9 6. That they are happy that are Christs in the worst condition We now come to the second part of the Doctrine and that is this That Jesus Christ it very sensible of his poples want of lodging For opening of which let me shew 1. How it does appear that it is so 2. Why. 3. The Uses For the first It does appear that He is sensible of their want of lodging 1. In that he meets with them in that condition and manifests himself graciously to them as he did to Jacob Genes 28. 11-16 He never had a more comfortable manifestation of Gods goodness to him then when a stranger and without lodging 2. In that he Commands that entertainment be given to such with encouragement to those that do it Heb. 13.2 1 Pet. 4.9 3. In that he commends those that have given entertainment and lodging to them 3 Joh. 5.6 Act. 28.7 4. In that he liberally rewards those that give entertainment and lodging to them 1 Kin. 17 10. to the end 2 Kin. 4.10 to 37. Gen. 18. 1. to 15. 5. In that he stirreth up the hearts of some to be forward
of 〈◊〉 Christ assures us upon his faithful Word that they are done to him He does not onely say it but addes a strong Asseveration to it in the word Verily and therefore we may be assured of it Reasons 1. They are the friends of Christ Luke 12.4 John 15.13 14. and men use to say when any are kinde to their friends 〈◊〉 they take it as if it had been done unto themselves much more will Christ say so who loves his freinds ten thousand times better then men do theirs 2. They are the Brethren of Christ John 20.17 Heb. 2.11 12. and Brethren will interpret the kindnesses done to their Brethren as done to themselves much more Christ who has more brotherly affection then all the loving brethren in the world put all together 3. They are the fellows of Christ Psal 45.7 1 John 1.3 and Companions are so dear one to another that they will account that what is done to their Companions is done to them much more Christ who is above all the Companions in the world for love 4. They are the Members of Christ Ephes 5.30 Coloss 1.18 his very flesh and how can he do any other but reckon of that that 's done to them as done to himself 5. They are the Spouse of Christ and what loving Husband is there that takes not that that is done to his Spouse as done to himself how much more Christ Cant. 5.1 6. They are the Children of Christ Heb. 2.13 and do not other Fathers take the kindnesses that are done to their Children as done to themselves how much more Christ 7. They are the Subjects of Christ and he their King Rev. 15.3 and Kings are concerned themselves in the welfare of their Subjects much more this blessed King 8. They are the very apple of his own eye Zeâ—h 2.8 and therefore he must needs be much concerned in the tender care that is had of them 9. They are his peculiar People Tit. 2.14 Psal 135.4 Mal. 3.17 and how can he then do any other then take himself as much concerned in what is dâ—ne to them 10. They are they that he has given his life for John 10 1â— and therefore are most dear to him Q. But why may we be so assured of the truth of this Ans 1. He is the faithful and true Witness Rev 1.5 3.14 2. He speaks truth in all he sayes and nates lying Prov. 8.7 8. 3. He useth a strong Asseveration to give assurance of what he sayes in that word Amen or Verily So it is 4. He has said that Heaven and Earth shall pass away but not a jot or tittle of his word shaâ— fail Mat. 24.35 5. He commands that we should speak truth one to another and not lie Zech. 8.16 Col 3.9 6. He loves truth and righteousness Psal 45.7 Vse 1. for Inforâ—ation 1. We see what a loving friend we have of the Lord Jesus he is all love and sweetness to his people that takes himself so much concernâ—d in the kindnesses and works of mercy done for them What love is to be compared to his 1 John 4.8 2. We see what great encouragement merciful ones have to come off with works of mercy for Christ will say Inasmuch as â—e have done it to the least of these my Brethren ye have done it unto me 3. We see that works of mercy and beneficence and what we minister to Christs Brethren are not lost for Christ owns them Eccles 11.1 4. That doubtless works of mercy shall finde a liberal Reward for Christ takes himself as deeply concerned in them and he will never take any thing of us though his own but will give us much more in lieu of it Gal. 6.9 2 Cor 9.6 5. We see what our duty is to Christ to take the unkindnesses that are done to Christ as done to our sâ—lves and to look at our selves as deeply concerned in them 6. We see that Christ and his Elect ones are one so he makes account that sayes Inasmuch c. Oh what an honour and dâ—gnity is this 1 Cor. 6.17 7. We see that we can never come off with love enough to him who is so full of love to us all the heart and minde and understanding and strength of our love is too little for him Mark 12.30 8. We see how nearly we should take our selves to be concerned in the matters that concern his Honour and Glory and the advancement of his Kingdome we should think we can never do enough for him in these 9. We see how willing Christ is to strengthen our Faith in the words of truth that he speaks and that we shall have no doubting of the certainty of them in that he addes his Amen or Verily to what he sayes 10. We see that they that are unmerciful to the poor and afflicted Saints of Christ give him the Lie in what he here sayes and do not believe his words that are strongly assertâ—d by him 1 John 5.10 11. We see how marvellous humble the Lâ—rd Jesus is in his state of Glory that counts that that is done to the least of his â—rethren as done to himself 12. We sâ—e that works of beneficence rightly done reach very fâ—r not so much to the Saints on earth as to Christ himself who is in Heaven 13. We see that we have no cause to repent of what is so done Vse 2. for Humiliation 1. To those that are hardly drawn to works of mercy these forget that Christ is concerned in them 2. To those that turn away the poor from their doors they turn away Christ from them 3. To those that have done far less then they might have done Vse 3. for Exhortation 1. To come off liberally to hungry thirsty strangers naked sick and imprisoned ones it 's done to Christ Isa 32.8 Acts 10.2 â— Cor. 8.1 2. Luke 19.8 2. To give glory to Christ Jesus that thus owns what â—e do 3. To own him and his Cause in hardest times Luke 14.26 33. 4. To be afraid of omitting any opportunity of mercy offered lest we should reject Christ himself Gal. 6.10 5. To take pains in our beneficence these ways all our pains are little being for Christ Jesus we should go about doing good travel for it as Phil 2 25-30 6. To run great haâ—ards that we may shew mercy Rom. 16.3 4. Phil. 2.30 it 's for Christ 7. To bewail that we have done no more being for Christ 8. To rejoyce that we have done any thing this way 9. To rejoyce in our suffering for our mercy to the Saints 10. To love mercy Micah 6.8 it is for Christ 11. To be unwearied in works of mercy Gal. 6.9 it is for Christ 12. To work with our hands that we may give Ephes 4.28 13. To give of our own Isa 61.8 Luke 19.8 14. To do what we do secretly it is for the Lord Mat. 6.1 2 3 Vse 4. for Consclation 1. Against mens hard thoughts of us if Christ say Ye have done it to
love to them Joh. 3.16 them to him Heb. 2.13 therefore no wonder if the Son be so willing to welcome and receive his Fathers gift 3. The Fathers pleasure is to give them the Kingdome Luke 12.32 and if the Father so honour them the Son will honour them with a blessed welcome into his sweet presence 4. The Father hath called them to the fellowship of his Son 1 Cor. 1.9 and therefore no wonder if the Son admit such into his fellowship at that day 5. The Father hath delight in the sight of the Lord Jesus and his children together Heb. 2.13 and therefore no wonder if he be so willing to bid them come to him 6. The Fathers will is that none of them should be lost John 6.39 and if so the Son cannot but gather them together to himself 2. From Christ himself 1. He hath promised that where he is they shall be also John 14.3 2. He hath prepared a place for them ibid. that they may be together 3. He prayed for this when he was on earth John 17.24 4. He loves them Deut. 33.3 Psal 146.8 Gal. 2 20. and they that love are never well but when they are together 5. He takes pleasure in his people Cant. 2.14 Psal 149.4 and if here much more at that day when all their rags are off when in their Robes 6. He shews himself and his Children as a pleasant sight for the Father to behold Heb. 2.13 and therefore cannot but at that day give them admittance into sweetest fellowship with him and say Come to them 3. From the Elect Saints themselves 1. They are Members of his Body of his Flesh and of his Bones Eph. 5.30 2. They are his Brethren so the Text and brotherly Communion he thinks is meet Brethren love to be together 3. They have had fellowship with him on earth 1 John 1.3 and are styled his fellows Psal 45.7 and will not he bid his fellows welcome at that day 4. They have been troubled for nothing more then his absence Lam. 1.16 5. They have desred his presence when they have wanted it Psal 42.1 2. 63.1 2. 84.1 2. Jerem. 14.8 9. 6. They have longed earnestly for the full fruition of him Cant. 8. ult Rev. 22.20 and have looked for him Phil. 3.20 Vse 1. for Information 1. We see the great love of the Lord Jesus that not onely causeth us to come to him here in a state of Grace but admits us and invites us to come to him in a state of Glory What love is there like to this love Eph 3.18 19. 2. We see the truth of that in John 6.37 Him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out 3. We see what earnest denres we should have to have communion and fellowship with him here for he will admit us at that day into full communion and fellowship with him Job 22.21 1 John 13.4 We see that the enjoyment of fellowship with Christ at that day is the top of Glory and the Heaven of Heaven it self Christ said all and enough when he said Luke 23.43 To day shalt thou be with me and the Apotle in Philip. 1.23 1 Thess 4.17 18. 5. We see how earnestly we should sign and breather in our desires after that day to hear thaâ— joyful word Coâ—e Well may the Spirit and the Bride say Come Rev. 22.17 well may each faithful Soul say Come to him who will at that day say Come to them Rev. 22.20 6. We see how ready we should be to come at his call to come to him in a way of believing John 6.35 to come to him in a way of Repentance Isa 21.12 to come to him in a way of Obedience Rev. 3.20 Well may we come to him all these wayes who will speak that blessed word Coâ—e to us at that day 7. We see that we need not disdain to come after him and take up his Cross for this sweet word Come will be comfort enough after all our sufferings with him and for him 8. We see how joyfully we should call one upon another to come and assemble together into his House and Courts Isa 2.2 3. Mâ—cah 4.1 2. Zech. 8.20 21 22. We may well come to meet him there that will at that day meet with us and say Come to us 9. We see what great encouragement we have to invite him to come to partake in our Services and Duties as Cant 4. ult This blessed Come of his at the last day should put us upon inviting him to come to what we provide for him his own precious fruits 10. We see that the very meanest and poorest and such as are most despicable in their own and others eyes shall be then owned and accepted of him and entertained into sweetest fellowship with him for he shall say Come to them at that day Vse 2. for Exhertation 1. To come before his presence with singing Psal 100.2 And let this Come put life and cheerfulness into all our Services in publick that are to be performed to him 2. To come together in our more private Services as they did of old Mal 3.16 3. To come often before him in secret Duties Matâ—h 6. â— 6 16. Let this Come make us come and perform secret duties 4. To own him and his Cause and Saints that will then own us 15. To admire the Lords mercy to us that he should give us any hope of hearing such a joyful word who have deserved to be for ever abdicated from his presence 6. To love his appearing well may we do so â— Tim. 1.8 7. To give all diligence to make our calling and elect on sure 2 Pet. 1 10. for Elect ones shall never fall 8. To have no fellowship with the workers of iniquity for they are no meet company for those that Christ will say Come unto at that dâ—y 9 To bewail our long delayes in coming to him He hath said Turn ye turn ye c. Ezek. 33.11 and. When shall it once be Jerem. 13.27 but we have and him stay long 10. To pray earnestly that we may be in that number Luke 21.36 to stand before the Son of man Vse 3. for Consolation 1. Against the separation that others make from us If Christ will own us and say Come it 's no matter 2. Against mens separating us from their company Luke 6.22 3. Against Christs seeming derelictions here they may be the better born if at that day he say Come to us 4. Against Satans whisperings and false charges Positive Comforts 1. That we are happy if all go if Christ sâ—y Come to us at that day 2. That if we never come to any thing in this world it 's no matter if he say Come at that day 3. That they are blessed that have a portion in him for he will then say Come Ver. 34. Come ye blessed of my Father c. Doct. XI is this That the Elect Saints are the Fathers Blessed ones anâ— shall be pronounced such by the Lord
realing and need pity in that case 2. They have pitied others Psal 41.1 2. 3. They are tender of his Name 4. They are his beloved ones John 11.3 5. They bear it sometimes for his sake 6. They make their moan to him Lam. 3 56 57. Vse 1. for Information 1 We see what a tender one we have of the Lord Jesus that cannot see us sick but he is as sensible of it as if himself were sick with us Well may it be said of him Himself took our infirmities and bare our sicknesses Mat. 8.17 2. We see how tender we should be of sick ones and how pitiful to them for we should be of the same spirit with him and he is very tender over them 3. We see how tender we should be of the Name and Honour of Christ Jesus that is so tender of us wâ—en we are sick 4. We see that surely he is very loth to lay sickness upon us we do even compel him to it for he that is so sensible of it that he sayes he is sick in our sicknesses doubtleâ—s if there were not great cause would not make us sick Lam. 3.33 1 Pet. 1.6 5. We see that when we are sick we should with more calmness and quietness of spirit bear it for Christ sympathizeth with us in it and is very sensible of it Psal 39.9 6. We see how low the Lord Jesus comes to us to be affected and afflicted with our sick-estate see Psal 113.5 7. We see how sick of love we should be for him Cant. 5.8 who out of love to us is sick in our sickness 8. We see how sick and grieved in our spirits we should be when any thing is done or said by others to grieve him 9. We see what affection we should have when he smites his people Ier. 8.21 10. We see that surely he is much more sensible of their Soul sickness Jer. 9.7 Mat. 23.37 Luke 19.41 42. Mark 3.5 Vse 2. For Humiliation 1. That our bowells move 〈◊〉 〈…〉 to sick ones see Psal 35.13 14 15. 2. That we are so little sensible of their soules sickness Jer. 9.1 2. 2 Pet. 2.7 8. 3. That we are so impatient in our sickness Vse 3. for Exhortation 1. To trust him for health in sickness for he is sensible of our sickness 2. To love him Psol 116.1.2 3 4. 3. To be sensible of any thing that â—reives him Psa 139.21 4. To be sick in the sickness of his people see 2 Kings 13.14 5 To be thankfull to Christ Jesus that 〈…〉 so low to us in our afflicted condition Isa 38.19.20 Psal 30.11 12. 107.20 21 22. 6. To bear sickness patiently 7. To serve him with all our might in our health that is so sensible of our sickness Ecclâ—s 9.10 8. To be willing to surfer any thing with him and for him that suffers with us 9. To draw near to the Lord Jesus and call upon him in times of sickness 10. To pray for siâ—â—â—â—ones Jam. 5.14 15.16 11. To rejoyce in our interest in Christ Jesus 12. To be the less troubled for sick friends Vse 4 for Consolation 1. Against our own sicknesses Christ portakes with us in them 2. Against mens unmercifulness to us in our sickness Christ is merciful then to us 3. Against Satans cruel disposition to us in our sick estate for that time he chuseth to afflict us most Well though he be cruel Christ is then sensible of our condition We are now come to the fifth and lost Branch of the XVII Doctrine and that is this That the Lord Jesus is very sensible of the Imprisonment of his Saints and people He counts himself in Prison in their Imprisonment For opening of which let me shew 1. How it does appeâ—r that he is so sensible of their Imprisonment 2. Why. 3. The Uses For the first It does appear that He is very sensible of this state of theirs and counts himself in Prison with them 2. In to a he chears them and comforts them in that condiction Act 16 24,25 So it was with many of the Marty's while they were in Prison they were as chearful and full â—f coâ—fort â—s their â—earts could hold as we see in Mr. Philpot Mr. Rogers and divers others see also Rev. 2.10 2. In that he prospers them in their work that they have to do there Gen 39.21.22 23. Phileâ— ver 10 11 2 Tim. 2.9 So Mr. Tindall Bradford Doctor Sands and others were prospered in Prison in their holy Labours to the Conversion of some there 3. In that the Lord stirs up his peoples hearts earnestly to pray for them when in prison Acts 2.5 4. In that he useth means to deliver them and oftentimes does it Thus Peter Acts 12 6-1â— So Paul was delivered Acts 16. 5. In that he makes their enemies to â—â—â—d to them to let them go out Acts 16 5 36. 6. In that he puts a fear into their adverszaries so as that they dare not keep them in Acts 16.37 38 39. 7. In that he brings them out with honour as â—e did Jesâ—ph Gâ—n 41 1â— 40. So was Paul brought out with honour acts 16 39 8. In that he gives them favour with their Keepers Gen. 39. â— 22 23. Acts 16.33 34. 9. In that he lets their souls at liberty to Pray and Hear and Conferre and Meditate in a beater manner sometimes then when at liberty 10. In that he makes them glory in that condition Philom ver 9. 11. In that others are bettered by it Phil 1.14 12 In that themselves are bettered by it Hebr 11.36 Psal 105.18 19. Q. 2. Why is he so sensible of their Imprisonment Ans 1. From himself 2. From them From himself 1. He knows what Prisoners undergo many wants many sorrows many tortures from cruel ones Psal 105.18 2. He hears their groans Psal 102.19 20. 3. He â—ees their â—ears If Solomon considâ—red the tears of such Eccles 4.1 much more doth he 4. He stirs up others to sympathize with them much more therefore does it himself Jer 38.9 5. He knows that it is from the Devil that they are put into that condition Rev. 2.10 6. He knows what Bonds mean John 18.12 7. He would have us pity them Heb. 18.3 2. From them 1. They suffer Imprisonment for his sake and the Gospels 1 Pet. 4.16 2. They have done no evil Gen. 40.15 Jer. 37.18 3. They are sometimes ready to die in Prison Jer. 38.9 4. They need pity in that condition being in hunger and thirst and â—â—ld and nâ—kedness 5. They are the Fathers blessed oâ—es so the Tâ—xt 6. They are his Members and Brethren 7. They have been pitiful unto others in that condition 8. They are the apple of his eye Zech. 2.8 9. They pray for compassion in that condition Psal 79.11 10. They are in a lonesome condition when in Prison and apt to be sad and this does alleviate their grief Vse 1. for Information 1. We see that the Prison though it be a dark stinking and uncomfortable
our Meat when hungry and upon our Drink when thirsty for Christ sets an high price upon it 6. We see with what thankfulness hungry and thirsty ones should receive what is given them for Christ makes great reckoning of what is so given 7. We see what great incouragement we have to be of a bountifull spirit to hungry and thirsty ones for it is not so much done to them as to Christ himselfe 8. We see what a lovely thing it is to relieve those in want for Christ himselfe is fed in them 9. We see that how secretly soever any reliefe is given to the Saints Christ takes special notice of it 10. We see what tender love is in the Lord Jesus that will take so small a thing so â—indly at our hands 11. We see his wonderful humility herein 12. We see that we should not indure to see the Saints want Vse 2. For Reproofe 1. To those that with-hold more then is meet Prov 11.24 Christ Jesus will count himselfe little beholden to them 2. To those that spend what they have upon their lusts and will part with nothing to Christ in his Saints 3. To those that by fraud keep back that which is in justice due to others James 5.4 Vse 3. For Exhortation 1. To come off bountifully to hungry and thirsty ones in their needs Christ will take it â—indly at our hands 2. To bless the Lord Jesus that be will take what we so do in such good part for our goodness extendeth not to him Psal 16.2 3. To accept with due acknowledgement what he does in the least of his mercies Gen. 32.10 4. To love him that takes so kindly what is done to us whom should we love like him Prov. 23.26 1 Cor. 16.22 5. To follow Christ in taking kindnesses done to hungry and thirsty ones as done to our selves Philem ver 12 â—7 6. To be glad of an opportunity for the relief of the Saints Gal. 6.10 7. To devise wayes of liberality Isa 32.8 8. To do what we do out of love to Christ for else it profits nothing 1 Cor. 13.3 9. To bewail our former hard-heartedness Luke 19.8.10 To love mercy Micah 6.8 Vse 4. for Consolation 1. That surely the least of these kindnesses shall not be forgotten but all remembred and rewarded by him 2. That the Saints shall surely remember his kindnesses and the multitudes of them and one day give him the glory of them We are now come to the second Branch of the XVIII Doctrine which is this That Christ takes it very kindly when his Saints that are strangers are kindly entertained into our houses For opening of which let me shew 1. How it does appear that he takes their entertainment so kindly 2. Why he takes it so kindly 3. The Uses For the first It does appear that He takes their entertainment very kindly 1. In that be gives it in charge that we should do it 1 Pet 4.9 Heb. 13.2 and he cannot but take it kindly when we observe his charge 2. In that he commendeth those that are kinde this way 3 John 5 8. 3. In that he makes account that such are fellow helpers to the truth ver 8. and this the Lord cannot but take kindly 4. In that he does reward all such kinde entertainments as we see he did to the widow of Sarepta 1 Kings 17. and the Shunamite 2 Kings 4. 5. In that he stirs up the hearts of his Servants to wish for their health and outward prosperity 3 John 2. 6. In that he gives such to thrive and prosper in their Souls ibid. 7. In that he vouchsafes them the love of his precious Saints yea the love of all them that know the truth 3 John 1. 8. In that he gives them such blessings as they could not well expect 2 Kings 4.14 15 16. 9. In that he has sometimes restored their children from death to life 1 Kings 17. 2 Kings â— 10. In that he has honoured them so as that they have entertained Angels Heb. 13.2 11. In that the whole Family is blessed by it Luke 19.9 Heb. 11.31 with Josh 6.23 Q. 2. Why does be take so kindly the entertainment that his people finde Ans 1. From himself 1. He loves and preserves strangers Psal 146.9 2. He sometimes was a stranger himself and therefore cannot but take it kindly what is done in way of entertainment of them 3. He hates and â—bhors the covetous that do it not Psal 10.3 and therefore cannot but take it kindly when we do entertain them 4. He knows what comfort his Saints have when entertained Judg. 19.21 22. 5. He takes pleasure in their prosperity Psal 35.27 6. He knows that the want of entertainment has cost many a man his life 2. From the Saints 1. They give him entertainment into their hearts Ephes 3 17. 2. They are the delight of his eyes Cant. 2.14 3. They are the very ravishment of his heart Cant. 4.9 4. They are his Fathers blessed ones so the Text. 5. They want entertainment very much are sometimes in great distress for want of it Judg. 19.18 19. 6. They praise him wheâ— they have it 3. From the nature of Entertainment 1. It is a fruit of their Faith Heb 11.31 So in the Widow of Sarepta and the Shunamite 2. It flows from Love and therefore we must not forget to do it Heb. 13.1 2. 3. It is a fruit of obedience to the Commandment 1 Pet. 4.9 4. It is a fruit of Bounty and see Isa 32.8 5. It may be the preservation of life 6. It refresheth them in their weariness Vse 1. for Information 1. VVe see what great delight the Lord Jesus hath in his Saints and People in that he takes so kindly a little entertainment given to them Psal 143.4 2. VVe see how kindly he will take it when we entertain him into our hearts Rev. 3.20 3. VVe see what entertainment himself will give such in his house here and in his Kingdome hereafter that takes it so kindly when they are entertained into our houses surely he will honourably entertain them Isa 25.6 John 14.2 3. 4. VVe see how much more kindly he will take it when we give that that may refresh and save the lives of their Souls 5. VVe see that the Lord takes special notice of small kindnesses shewed to his people in that a little entertainment is so kindly taken 6. VVe see how kindly we should take it when the Lord bows the hearts of his people to be courteous in entertaining of us for Christ takes it kindly at their hands 7. VVe see that Hospitality is that that Christ loveth and delighteth in how then should we love it Titus 1 8. 8. We see that we can never love the Lord Jesus enough that takes it so kindly when we are kindly entertained 1 Cor. 16.22 9. We see a reason of the charge he gives us 1 Pet. 4.9 Heb. 13.2 10. VVe see thaâ— tâ—ey are not of the spirit of Christ Jesus that are
unthankful when kindly entertained 11. VVe see how humble and lowly in heart the Lord Jesus is that looks at strangers lodgings 12. VVe see that love to Christ is seen in a little Vse 2. for Humiliation 1. That any stranger should want entertainment seeing Christ takes it so kindly 2. That there should be any of that spirit that will not acknowledge such kindnesses Vse 3. for Exhortation 1. To beware we forget not this duty Heb. 13.2 why should we 2. To beware we forget not to be thankful for all the sweet entertainment he gives us in his House and at his Table 3. To rejoyce in hope of better entertainment Rom. 5.2 4. To â—miâ—te Christ herein 5. To open to him Psal 24.7 9. Revel 3.20 6. To love hospitality Titus 1.8 7. To take entertainments kindly as Christ does 2 Kings 4. 8. To be thankful to God for Christ Jesus in whom all our entertainments are sweetned to us 9. To do what we do in our entertainments out of Faith and Love and Obedience 10. To come off liberally 1 Tim. 6.17 18. seeing he takes a little so kindly Vse 4. for Consolation 1. That Christ looks at strangers when harbourless 2. That he will take it very kindly when our hearts are open to receive his words Luke 10.42 3. That he will give blessed entertainment himself that takes ours so kindly John 14.3 4. That we shall not be losers by kindnesses to strangers The third Branch we are to handle of the XVIII Doctrine is this That the Lord Jesus takes it very kindly when his naked ones are clothed For opening of which let me shew 1. How it does appear that he takes it so kindly 2. VVhy 3. The Uses For the first It does appear that He takes it kindly 1. In that he rewards them many wayes that do it 1 VVith long life as we see in Job Job 31.19 20. with 42.17 2 VVith honour Psal 12 9. so Job 29 7 8 9 10 21-25 3 VVith wealth and riches Job 42 10 11. All these also we may see in David who was kinde to the poor and naked 1 Chron. 29.28 4 VVith comfort in affliction Psal 112.4 Isa 58.7 8 10. 5 VVith speedy health ibids 6 VVith the presence of the Lord and his protection ibid. 7 With speedy answer to prayer Isa 58.9 8 With continual guidance from the Lord Isa 58.11 9 With satisfaction in drowth ibid. 10 With fatness of bones ibid. 11 With fruitfulness flourishing and delightfulness as a watered garden holds out 12 With continual supplies of moisture of Grace as a Spring of water whose waters fail not ibid. 13 With blessings upon posterity they shall be renowned Isa 58.12 2. In that he brings a good report upon them after they are dead Acts 9.39 3. In that he makes their death to be lamented Acts 9.39 4. In that he sometimes has raised some that have been thus charitable from death to life Acts 9.40 41. 5. In that the very loins of the poor bless them Job 31.20 6. In that the prayers of his poor naked ones are poured out for them 2 Tim 1.16 18. 7. In that many thanksgivings come hereby to God 2 Cor. 9.12 8. In that he makes such to be longed after 2 Cor. 9.14 9. In that he gives to such all-sufficiency alwayes in all things for abounding in every good work 2 Cor. 9.8 10. In that he giveth them to reap bountifully 2 Cor. 9.6 Q. 2. Why does he take it so kindly Ans 1. From himself 2. From his Saints From himself 1. He delights in mercy Micah 7.18 and therefore cannot but take this kindly 2. He is the preserver of men Job 7.20 and this is one way whereby they are preserved 3 He looks at it as an unspeakable gift 2 Cor. 9.15 and therefore cannot but take it kindly 4. He received such things himself when time was Luk. 8.3 5. He knows they cannot endure the cold without clothing â—sal 147.17 6. He careth for them 1 Pet. 5.7 and therefore takes it kindly when we thus provide for them 2. From the Saints that are naked 1. They cannot ask clothing and therefore if they be supplied with it Christ will take it kindly 2. They serve him with their outward man and their bodies are for him 1 Cor. 6.13 3. Their bodies are part of his Purchase he has bought them with his blood 1 Cor 6.20 and therefore must needs take it kindly when they are clothed 4. They are his D sciples and followers and he cannot but take it well when they are clothed 5. They are thankful for clothing both to him and men Psal 65.13 Job 31.20 6. They cannot comfortably be without clothing Vse 1. for Information 1. We see what care we should all have to make provision not onely for clothing for our selves and families but to supply their wants also that have them not And therefore to provide Sheep and encourage those that look to them if Christ take it so kindly and will own it at the last day then we cannot be too forward to make provision for them 2. VVe see what a merciful one the Lord Jesus is that takes care of his poor naked ones to relieve them and owns it as done to himself 3. VVe see that though all we have be his and he might command it all yet he is so loving that he will take a little kindly at our hands given to clothe his naked ones Psal 50. 4. VVe see that idle persons are most loathsome to Jesus Christ that clothe themselves with rags Prov. 23.21 for he would have all his naked ones clothed and takes it kindly from them that do it 5. VVe see how thankfully we should take it when he clothes us with the Robe of his Righteousness Isa 61.10 Jer. 23.6 6. VVe see how kindly he will much more take it when any of us are instruments to cover naked Souls and to apply Christs Righteousness to any such 7. VVe see how humble the Lord Jesus is that condescends to look after the naked's clothes 8. VVe see that Cloth workers are to be encouraged by us 9. VVe see that they are not of Christs spirit that can see the Saints go in rags 10. VVe see what a blessed thing it is to be the Saints of Christ for he takes that as done to himself that 's done to them Vse 2. for Humiliation 1. To those that have it by them and yet do it not 2. To those that throw that into holes and corners that would help to clothe Christs naked ones Vse 3. for Exhortation 1. To come off liberally to the poor this way and be of Jobs spirit Job 31.19.20 And that we may be enabled to it 1 Be diligent Prov 31.19 20. 2 Look how they go Job 31.19 1 John 3.17.18 the eye will affect the heart 3 Think not much even to make them garments Acts 9.39 4 Spend not too much upon our selves Luke 16.19 20. 5 Love mercy Micah 6.8 6 Follow that rule Luke 3.11
men come unto his Saints in prison 1. In that his imprisoned Saints pray for them and their houses 2 Tim 1.16 17 18. which is a pledge that he takes it kindly from them 2. In that they have their lives given them as a prey for this thing Jer 38.7 8 9. with 39.16 17 18. 3. In that he restores such from sickness to health Phil 2.25 27. which is a pledge of the Lords kinde acceptance of it 4. In that he would have such received with all gladness Phil 2.29 5. In that he would have such held in reputation ibid. 6. In that he imparts some Spiritual blessing to them by the Prisoners means by their savoury and gracious communication Acts 16.31 32. 7. In that he blesseth them with off spring of their bodies which had none before as the Keepers wife with whom Dr. Sands was Prisoner being kinde to him had a Son the next year according as he told her 8. In that he takes such with their families into his Covenant as we see in the Jaylor that was kinde to Paul and Silas Acts 16 33 34. 9. In that he fills them with joy in believing Acts 16.34 10. In that he recordâ— the courtesies that have been shewn to his Prisoners in his own book the Keepers courtesie to Joseph Gen. 39. Ebedmelechs to Jeremâ—ah Jer. 38.7 8 9. So Acts 27.1 3. Q. 2. Why does he take it so kindly Ans 1. From himself 2. From them 3. From the work it self From himself 1. He is kinde to his Prisoners and therefore takes kindly what is done in kindness to them 2. He comes to Prisoners himself and chears them as he did to Paul Acts 16.25 26. and to Cuthbert Simpson in Q. Mariet time 3. He sends his Angels to them Acts 12.7 8. 27.23 24. 5.19 20. 4. He knows the sad condition of Prisoners how vilely and unworthily they are used as Joseph and Jeremy were 5. He desires mercy and delights in it Hos 6.6 Micah 7.18 6. He looseth the Prisoners Psal 146.7 and therefore takes it Kindly when we come to them 2. From them 1. They are his choyce Worthies of whom the world is not worthy Heb 11 36 38. 2. They are among the most honourable of his believing ones Phil 1.29 3. They are willing to be bound for him Acts 21.13 4. They rejoyce that they are counted worthy so to be Acts 5.41 3. From the work it self 1. It is the work of Christ Phil 2.30 and therefore no wonder if he does so kindly take it 2. It is an act of spiritual fortitude and true valour Phil 2.25 3. It is an act of true love both to Christ and the Prisoners 4. It is an act of greatest self denial Phil 2.30 Rom 16.3 4. Vse 1. for Information 1. We see that though Prisoners be alone and hardly used yet Christ hath regard to them for he owns what is done to them in way of kindness as done to himself 2. We see with what acceptance we should receive his kindness to us in coming to us when we were every moment in danger of being cast into the Prison of Hell Oh! we should take this kindly at his hands Isa 42.6 7. 3. We see what a mercy it is and how kindly we should take it from him when he comes to our Spirits when shut up and sets them at liberty Psal 88.8 4. We see what great encouragement we have to be kind to Christs Prisoners for he owns and accepts it kindly at our hands Heb 13.3 5. We see that he will much more take it kindly if any of us be instruments to let go those that have been Prisoners of darkness 6. We see it coming to Pâ—â—soners of Christ be so acceptable to him how acceptable is it to be a means of their inlargement and to venture hard for it as Rom. 16.3 4. 7. We see of what an amiable nature and sweet spirit the Lord Jesus is that takes a walk to his Prisoners so kindly 8. We see that we need not be much discouraged to go to Prison for Christs sake 9. We see that if he respect his Prisoners so Oh â—ow will he respect them in his Pallace of Glory 10. We see that they that commit his Saints to Prison do them a greater kindness then they are aware of Vse 2. for Humâ—liation 1. To those that neglect this office of love Christ takes it unkindly 2. To those Prisoners of his that are not so thankful as they should to those that come to â—â—em Christ takes it very kindly Vse 3. for Exhortation 1. To stir us up to remember those that are in Bonds Heb. 13.3 2. To be very thankful when Christ comes to us in our imprisoned condition 3. To bless the Father for visiting us by his Son Luke 1.68 69 78 79. 4. To Prisoners to take such kindnesses kindly as Christ does 5. To be unwearied in doing for Christ that takes it so kindly when we come to his Prisoners 6. To deliver Prisoners as we can for he will much more take that kindly 7. To venture hard for them Phil. 2.30 8. To be willing to suffer the Prison for him 9. To be thankful and joyful in that estate Acts 5.41 10. To honour the Lord Jesus in Prison Vse 4. for Consolation 1 That surely he will much more take it kindly when we are at pains and cost for their Liberties 2. That Christ will entertain us when we come to him he will take that kindly John 6.37 3. That though some may vex at those that visit godly Prisoners Christ will not 4. That the Prison cannot separate us from Christs love Rom 8.35 Ver. 37. Then shall the righteous answer him saying c. Doct. XIX is this That they that are of a true merciful spirit to the Saints of Chrâ—stâ—â—n their aâ—â—â—â—cted estate are in a justified estate They are rigâ—teous ones â—saâ— 112.9 Isa 57.1 2 Cor 9.9 10. For opening of which let me shew 1. How it does appear that they are in a justified estate or righteous as they are here styled 2. Why it must needs be so 3. The Uses For the first It does appear that they are in a just fied estate or righteous 1. In that Mercy is a fruit of Righteousness 2 Cor 9.10 Phil 1.11 Psal 37.21 2. In that it is a mark of Election Coloss 3.12 and Elect ones are justified ones Rom. 8.30 3. In that it is a pledge of our happiness Prov 14.21 Now there are none happy that are not righteous 4. In that it is a pledge of our honouring of God Iâ—rov 14.31 and none can honour him truly but justified ones 5. In that it is a pledge of uprightness Isa 57.1 2. and nâ—ne are upright but justified ones Luke 18.6 In that merciful ones shall obtain mercy Mâ—tth 5.7 Now none obtain mercy from God but justified ones see â—sal 18.25 7. In that merciful ones rejoyce against judgement Jam. 2.13 and none can do thus but justified ones 8. In that
them Isa 64.6 3. To desire after that day that may fill us with these holy admirings Rev. 22.20 4. To humble our selves for all our failings in our services to him in his Saints for we shall humbly admire their acceptance at that day 1 Chron. 29.14 16. 5. To walk â—â—â—edly from all that we have done and not to rest in any of our duties for it will be a wonder to us one day that they should be owned and accepted 6. To wonder that we can no more wonder at the wonders of Gods grace towards us Vse 4. for Consolation 1. Against our shortness in our holy admirings here at the Lords accepting of our services we shall come off better at that day 2. Against the praises that vain glorious Hypocrites have for their works we shall have praise from God which we shall wonder at Ver. 40. And the King shall answer and say unto them Verily I say unto you inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my Brethren ye have done it unto me Doct. XXIII is this That the Elect Saints of Christ are counted and reckoned by him as his brethren Joh. 20.17 Heb. 2.11 12. For opening of which let me shew in what respects they are his Brethren 2. The Uses Quest In what respects are they said to be his Brethren Ans 1. In that he and they have one Father though as he is the second Person in the Trinity he is the essentiâ—â— Son of the Father by Eternal Generation and they his Sons by Adoption and Grace John 1.14 18. 1 John 3.1 2. 2. In that they hear his Image as Brethren are like one another Rom. 8.29 They bear his Image here in Knowledge Holiness and Righteousness Coloss 3.10 Ephes 4.24 and shall bear it more perfectly hereafter 1 Cor 15.49 1 John 3.2 3. In that they are joynt-heirs with him Rom. 8.17 as Brethren inherit their Fathers Estate though the first-born has a double Portion 4. In that they and he are sufferers together Rom 8.17 2 Tim. 2.12 Coloss 1.24 as Brethren are often fellow-sufferers Rom. 8.29 5. In that he and they are fellows one to another Psal 45 7. as Brethren are fellows and companions together have fellowship one with another he has fellowship with them Cant. 5.1 and they with him 1 John 1.3 Rev. 3.20 6. In that he and they intirely love one another as Brethren do he loves them Gal. 2.20 Ephes 5.2 25. and they love him Psal 18.1 116.1 Ephes 6.24 1 John 4.19 7. In that he and they are firmly â—â—ited so as nothing can separate them so are Brethren firmly linked and united and so are they Hos 2.19 20 2 Cor 11.2 Ephes 5.30 John 15.2 8. In that he and they please their Father John 8.29 1 John 3.22 so do Brethren 9. In that be and they are sensible of one anothers sufferings and comforts so the Text Acts 9.4 The head in the natural body suffers and rejoyceth with the members and the members with the head so in the mystical body 10. He and they partake of one anothers provisions and feasts as Brethren be invites us and we him Cant. 4.16 5.1 11. He and they never forsake one another as Brethren Heb. 13.5 Jor. 32.40 12. He has done many brotherly offices for them 1 Laid down his life for them 1 John 3.16 2 He intercedes for them Heb. 7.25 3 Prepares a place for them John 14.2 3. 4 He will not leave them comfortless John 14.18 5 Procures the Comforter for them John 14 16. and sends him John 15.26 6 Gives them a grant of all they ask John 14.13 14. Vse 1. for Information 1. We see what great honour the Lord Jesus will put upon his Saints at that day that he will own them as Brethren Great is the honour of being the Brethren of a King Oh what is it then to be the Brethren of this King 2. We see the great humility of the Lord Jesus that will stoop so low as to count and call 〈◊〉 his Brethren Earthly Kings make account that they condescend in calling the chief Peers of the Land their Cousins Oh but how does this King condescend in calling not onely the greatest but the meanest of his Subjects Brethren Psal 113.5 6.7 3. We see that surely he will never be wanting to us to do those brotherly offices for us now that we stand in need of for he cannot forget his Brethren 4. We see that though he seem to cast us off in time of temptation yet he will not do it long for he cannot withdraw his compassions from his Brethren Heb. 2.18 4.15 5. We see that though he make himself strange to them and speak roughly to them and deal harshly with them yet there will be a time when he will not be able to refrain himself any longer but will as Joseph did discover himself to be their Brother Gen. 45.1 6. We see that he cannot see them lack Psal 34.10 84.11 7. We see that we had need to beware of offending him for a Brother offended is hard to be won Prov. 18.19 and therefore serve him with fear and take heed of provoking him to anger Psal 2.11 12. 8. We see a reason of his kinde acceptance of what we do for him he is our Brother 9. We see that he will not suffer us to be overmuch wronged but will surely take our part against our enemies Luke 22.31 Mat. 10. 10. We see a reason why the Righteous is more excellent then his Neighbour Prov. 12.26 for such are Christs Brethren 11. We see that his heart is toward â—s 12. That he will never leave us nor forsake us Heb. 13.5 Vse 2. for Humiliation 1. That we have so little of His Spirit are so unlike to such a Brother 2. That we are so unbrotherly to him 3. That we are so apt to start from him Prov. 17.17 4. That we are so little troubled for our unkindness to him see Gen. 42.21 Vse 3. for Exhortation 1. To honour our elder Brother 2. To suffer with him Rom. 8.17 3. To trace his steps 1 John 2.6 as younger Brethren do 4. To do his Fathers will Mat. 12.50 5. To converse much with him Job 22.21 1 John 1.3 6. To open to him Psal 24.7 9. Rev. 3.20 See Gen 24.31 7. To love him constantly If brotherly love should continue between the Saints Heb. 13.1 then much more between Christ and us 8. To trust in him for though other Brothers are not to be trusted sometimes Jer. 9.4 Micah 7.5 6. yet we may safely trust him 9. To take his part against those that rise up against him Brethren take one anothers part 10. To get our elder Brothers garments on us See for illustration Gen. 27.15 so Jer. 23.6 11. To deny none that Ask for Jesus sake he is our Brother 12. To walk honourably as having him to our Brother Vse 4. for Consolation 1. Against afflictions and temptations we have a Brother
pity evil men and be patient towards them they have evil enough coming upon them 4. Not to envy them their honour here Psal 73. 5. To make sure that we are none of these 6. To keep up fellowship with Christ here Vse 4. for Consolation 1. Against the Lordly Authority that the wicked have here 2. Against the trouble we suffer from them 3. Against the evil that we have by their being with us in our societies 4. Against their contempt of us Ver. 41. Depart from me ye cursed c. Doct. XXVII is this That it is the greatest misery of Reprobates and wicked persons that they shall be separated for ever from Christs Presence Christ begins with this as being the very top of all their misery and therefore in the other places as if this had all misery wrapt up in it it is alone spoken of Mat. 7.23 Luke 13.27 2 Thess 1.9 Reasons 1. Because by this Separation from his Presence they are for ever deprived of the favour of God and all hope of ever obtaining favour with him which must needs be the top of all misery for In his favour is life and his loving kindness is better then life Psal 30.5 63.3 and therefore what a death must it be to be deprived of that 2. Because this Separation from Christ is the loss of the greatest good in the world for he is our Summum Bonum our Chief Good our All in All Câ—loss 3.11 Cant. 5.10 Above all other Beloveds and to be deprived of him must needs be the top of all misery Hence not onely the best of the Schoolmen but the ablest of our Divines agree upon it That the Punishment of Loss is greater then that of Sense 3. Because this Separation from Christs Presence for ever deprives them of Happiness for our Happiness lies in our Communion with him 4. Because it deprives them of Conformity to him for that depends upon our being with him and viewing of his blessed face 1 〈◊〉 3.2 5. Because this Senaration from him deprives theâ— of all that Joy and Comfort that is with him Psal 16 â—â— 2 Thess 2.16 6. Because it deprives them of all satisfaction that they should have in him Psal 17.15 they must needs be unsatiâ—fied altogether in their condition 7. Becâ—â— uâ—â— tâ—is Separâ—â—ion from Câ—rists Presence deprives theâ— of the blessed Company of all the Saints and Angels they shall never â—ee one Saiâ—t more and if so it must needs be the top of misery 8. Because it deprives them of â—ll his Glory which they might have been partakers of John 17.24 They that were so taken with worldly glory that they would have it any way shall be deâ—rived of all beavenly glory Psal 49.19 9. Because it deprives them of the revelâ—tion of all those Mysteries that here by reason of our childish condition we could not understand whiâ—h then will be unfolded 1 Cor. 13 9-12 10. Because iâ— deprives them of all pâ—â—â—bility of Praising God which is the Saints happiness on earth Psal 84.4 and will be much more in heaven 11. Because it deprives them of all the sweet smiles of his blessed face and of all the sweet eâ—braces that the Saints partake of in that Celestial Bride-Chamber and Bâ—d of Love 12. Because it deprives them of all those City-Priviledges and Immunities which the Saints enjoy Heb. 11.16 which what they are no tongue can express nor heart conceive 13. Because it deprives them of all the Treasures Pleasures Honours Contentments of that Celestial Kingdome 14. Because it shuts them out of Paradise Luke 23.43 And if it was Aâ—ams mifery to be shut out of an Earthly Paradise Genes 3.24 what a misery is it then to be excluded from the Heavenly 15. Because it deprives them of those rare views of Gods Mâ—â—eâ—â—y which the Saints shall have in him 1 John 1.2 16. Because it deprives them of that Rest that remaineth to the people of God Heb 4.9 Vse 1. for Information 1. We see how woeful their condition is that the Lord casts off here as Hos 4.17 9.12 for it is a fore-runner of his eternal Separation of them from his Presence at the last and great day which is the top of all â—isery 2. We see what cause we all have to fear as Heb. 4.1.2 3. We see that the enjoyment of Christs Presence must needs be the greatest Happiness for it is the greatest misery to beâ—d prived of it Luke 23.43 4. We see what need we all had to get Christ with us and to keep him with us Cant 3.4 for it is the top of the damned's misery that they shall be separated from him for ever 5. We see a reason of the Saints mourning for his â—bsence from them Jer. 14.8 Lam. 1.16 Well may they do so for it is the worst part of the damned's misery to be eternally separated from him 6. We see that the â—unishment of Loss though men be not so senâ—â—ble of it now yet will sting â—â—em most at that day 7. We see the â—iserable state of those that care not for fellowship with Christ here had rather have fellowship with their lusts and lewd company they slight that here the want wâ—ereof will be the top of all their misery at the last day 8 We see how good the Lord is to his Saints in adâ—itting tâ—em to his blessed Presence here and hereafter for it is the very height of the damned's misery to be bid Depart from him 9. We see that the Punishment of Sense though it be intolerable Mark 9.44 46 48. yet or the two is farre more tolerable then the Punishment of Loss 10. We see how truly happy their condition is that enjoy Christs Presence to all eternity to whom he will say Come for it is the damned's greatest misery to be deprâ—veâ— of his Presence 11. We see the folly of evil men tâ—â—t wilfâ—lly run in such wayes as lead to such miserâ— Jer. 2.17 19. Rom. 3.16 12. We see how good it is to draw near to Christ here Psal 73.28 for it will be the wicked's greatest misery to be separated froâ—â—im Vse 2. for Terrour 1. To those that fly from the Lords Presence as Cain did Gen. 4.16 it will be the height of their misery at the last day 2. To those that haâ—e those that have Communion with him heâ—e they will wish their Souls in their Souls state 3. To those that seek not after his favour here they sâ—all be deprived of it for ever Psal 10.4 73.27 Vse 3. for Exhortation 1. To seek the Lord and his face Psal 105.4 2. To bewail their case that have no followship with him they shall have none of it hereafter and that will be their greatest misery Luke 13.28 3. To fly their company that have no Communion with Christ here lest we share in their misery Ephes 5.11 4. To delight in those Ordinances most wherein we have most Communion with him as the Word Supper Prayer Meditation Conference 1
pillars and upholders of the places where they are Joh 22.30 to keep off Judgment and to procure mercy Gen. 19.22 Psal 106.23 30. Vse 1. for Information 1. We see with what great Indignation the Lord takes it at the hands of such men when they are so hard-hearted to strangers 2. We see how nearly it concernes us to look to it that we be not of such a Spirit 3. We see how unworthy such men be to have any Saint to come amongst them 4. We see how unmeet it is to receive such hard-hearted ones into favour or familiarity with us 5. We see how dreadful the day of Judgement will be to such men 6. We see how distastful it should be to us to see any such discourtesie used to the Saints when strangers for it is so distastful to Christ that he will one day charge it home upon them 7. We see that for a nights lodging and a little entertainment spared upon strangers wicked men are willing to abide the severity of the great Judges condemnation 8. We see that cruel men are cruel to themselves they may kill the bodies of strangers but by this they cast away themselves for ever 9. We see how deeply sensible the Lord is of the unkindness done to his Members 10. We see what Judgement waits for them that oppress strangers that misuse them that kill them pillage them c. if they that entertain them not shall be so severely judged where will these appear 11. We see that they will have a bad lodging themselves that do not lodge strangers they must lodge with Devils 12. VVe see what Coveteousness brings men to Vse 2. for Terrour 1. To all cruel ones to strangers in denying them entertainment see Jam. 2.13 2. To all those that grudge to do any Courtesie for them are hardly drawn to it 3. To all that deal worse with them oppress them pluck from them revile them do what evil they can against them Vse 3. for Exhortation 1. To Strangers to take patiently what they meet with in that condition for the Lord Jesus sees it and will one day require it 2. To be chearful in want of lodging and entertainment for it was not only his own case Luk. 9 51 52 53. but he will remember how they have been used and charge it sadly upon the wicked at the great day 3. To think of the entertainment that Christ gives them here in his house at his Table and of that he will give them in Glory and let that suffice 2. To us all 1. To abhorr this Spirit in our selves and others 2. To be thankful if the Lord give us open hearts and open doors to receive such 3. To fear and tremble at the least grudging in our spirits to receive such 4. To stand at our doors to observe weary and way faring ones and desire them to come in as Abraham did 5. To be of Lydia's spirit Acts 16.15 6. To make account that it is not only the Ministers duty to be given to Hospitality Tit. 1.8 but ours 1 Pet. 4.9 yea the poorest are not exempted 1 Kings 17.10 11 12. 7. To pity their case that are hard-hearted they are the worst Enemies to themselves Ver. 43. Naked and ye clothed me not The Third Branch of the XXXVI Doctrine is this That unmercifulness in not clothing Christs naked Members shall be deeply charged upon the Wicked at the last and great Day Reasons 1. From the Nature of this sin 2. From the Saints who are in this Condition 3. The Uses First From the Nature of this Sin 1. It is that that exposeth them to perishing Job 31.19 and thereby such are guilty of Murther and therefore it is no wonder if Christ will so deeply charge it upon wicked men at the last day 2. If it should not rise so high as Murther yet it exposeth them to suffer much by reason of cold which sometimes is so extream that it cannot be born Psal 147.17 and the extremity of cold causeth many sicknesses some of which are as painful and bitter as death it self see Job 24.7 2 Cor. 11.27 3. If neither of these should come yet it exposeth the Saints to uncomeliness for to be naked and destitute of clothing is very uncomely and the Lord would have us go comely looks at it as a sin in those that cause others to go naked Job 24.10 4. It is that that godly men reprove in those that they think are guilty of it Job 22.6 It 's true Eliphaz missed the mark when he charged Job with this but yet it holds out that he thought he was guilty and chargeth it home upon him Much more will Christ charge it deeply upon them that he knows to be guilty at that day 5. It is Inhumanity and God would have us as in other cases to shew our selves men Isa 46.8 6. It is contrary to the Rule of the Gospel Luke 3.11 7. It comes cross to the practice of the Saints 2 Chron. 28.15 Job 31.19 Acts 10.39 8. It breaks the Law of Love Rom. 13.10 9. It spoils the most Spiritual of all our Duties Isa 58.3 4 6 7. 10. It is an Abomination to the Lord Ezek. 18.13 and therefore no wonder if he charge it so home upon the wicked at that day 2. From the Saints 1. They are the Fathers Blessed ones so the Text. 2. They are Heirs of the Kingdome 3. They are such as Christ admits into his blessed Fellowship and sayes Come unto 4. They are his Purchased ones Acts 20.28 5. They are they that the Lord has given Himself his Christ and his Spirit unto Gen. 15.1 John 3.16 2 Cor. 1.22 6. They are his Excellent ones Psal 16.2 3. yea more excellent then others Prov. 12.26 7. They are the Delight of his Eyes and Heart Cam. 2.14 Psal 149.4 8. They are tenderly cared for by him Zech. 2.8 Isa 40.12 9. They are the very Glory of Christ 2 Cor. 8.23 10. They are Rich in their Poverty Rov 2.9 11. They are clothed with the best Robe and Garments Isa 61.10 12. They shall be clothed upon with Immortality â— Cor. 5.4 Now not to clothe these must needs be charged deeply upon wicked men at that day Vse 1. for Information 1. We see the sad case of those that having that by them that would help to Clothe the Naked which they make no use of yet do nothing that way Christ will reckon with them for it at that day 2. We see a reâ—son of the Judgement of God upon the very Garments of Cruel men Jam. 5.1.2 3. We see how unworthy they be of the Name of Christians that will not Clothe their own Families If wicked men shall be judged that Clothe not other naked Saints what shall become of them that will not Clothe their own 1 Tim. 5.8 4. We see what wretched men they be that are so farre from Clothing Christs naked ones that if they will have any Clothes from them they shall pay twice
they think seriously of it for it will be charged home upon them at the last and great day 9. We see what need we had to look after those that are sick of sin and to tender convinced sinners as Christ does Mat. 9.12 13. 10. We see that if the non visitation of sick ones will be so deeply charged upon men at that day then surely cruelty to sick ones in other kinds much more Vse 2. for Terrour 1. To all careless ones that mind themselves only so themselves be in health care not how it goes with others are of Gallio â—s spirit Acts 18.17 2. To those that rejoyce at others Calamities Prov 24.17 3. To those that Kill and Murther them without pity as of late in Piemont If they that visit not sick Saints shall be judged where shall such appear Vse 3. for Exhortation 1. To tremble at any neglect herein it will cost men dear at that day 2. To repent of any such unmercifulnes in former times 3. To charge this neglect upon those that are guilty of it 4. To hope the best of those that make Conscience of visiting sick ones though they have their infirmities other wayes 5. To bless the Lord that he has made us in any measure tender this way and thereby given us hope that no such evil shall be charged upon us 6. To be thankful that others have been tender over us in our sickness and thereby have declared their love not only to us but to Christ himselfe 7. To stirre up our sâ—lves to the practice of the duty of visiting the sick And that we may be helped therein 1 Labour to get a soft heart Ezek 36.26 2 Remember that we may be sick our selves 3 Think much of the day of Judgement 4 Remember that Christ counts himselfe sick in his Members 5 Get a bountiful Spirit 6 Love the Saints 7 Fear the Almighty Job 6.14 8 Remember the good that may be done by the Prayer of Faith for the sick Jam. 5.15 Ver. 43. Sick and in Prison and ye visited me not We are now come to the last Branch or the XXXVI Doctrine and that is this That unmercifulness to Christs imprisoned ones shall be deeply charged upon the Wicked at the last and great Day Reasons 1. From the nature of this sin 2. From the Saints in this condition First From the Nature of this sin of not visiting Christs Prisoners 1. It is an high contempt of Christ himselfe for he sayes he is in Prison when they are and will not such a sin be charged home at that day 2. It is great hard-heartedness and cruelty For no men in the world need more pitâ—y then sometimes Prisoners do they endure great trials Heb. 11.36 Rev. 2.10 and this is a great plague Exod. 9 14. to be hard-hearted 3. It is inhumanity and such a sin whereby men put off humanity must needs be charged deeply upon them at that day 4. It is worse then Barbarism for even Barbarians have been kind to some of the Lords Prisoners as to Paul when he was a Prisoner Acts. â—8 2 10. 5. It is worse then Heathenism for some Heathens have been kinde to the Lords Prisoners as we see in Iosephs Keâ—per Gen. 39.21 so Acts 28.2 16 31. 6 It is that by which men resemble the very Devil for he casts the Saints into Prison Rev. 2 1â— and would have them there to have no mercy 7. It is altogether inconsistent with the love of God 1 Joh. 3.17 8. It is a Trangression of that Commandment that we have from God that He who loveth God love his Brother also 1 Ioh. 4.21 9. It is that that is detestable to God Angels and all good men for all these visit these Prisoners Gen. 39.21 Act. 12.6 7 8. 10. It is that that a man will loath himself for it ever he repent Acts 16.33 2. From the Saints in that condition 1. They are in a lonesome condition and therefore stand in need of visiting 2. They are under manifold temptations and others visits would help them in such a condition 3. They are sorrowful we read of the sighs of Prisoners Psal 79.11 and others visits would help to alleviate those lighs 4. They are dying men Psal 79.11 and not to visit dying men must needs be charged upon those that are guilty of it 5. They are meanly provided for in the Prison 1 Kin. 22.26 27. and not to visit them to minister something more comfortable for them for their Diet is sad and will be reckoned for 6. They have mean Lodging many times a little straw or it may be a Pair of Stocks Acts 16.24 7. They are sometimes pined and have no meat at all Jer 38.9 8. They are starved with cold as Mr. Latimer 9. They are tortured sometimes Heb. 11.35 10. They continue long in this condition Vse 1. for Information 1. We see that the Lords Prisoners are very dear to him in that he will charge unmercifull ones so deeply at that day for not visiting them in this their afflicted condition 2. We see that he will surely charge it home upon them that have without cause put them into Prison and have dealt cruelly with them there by Pining Starving Torturing of them 3. We see that surely the death of such Prisoners is very precious in his sight If the death of every Saint be precious Psal 116.15 then much more precious is the death of these Saints that are Sufferers for him 2 Tim. 4.6 16. He will charge the wicked's not visiting them upon them and therefore when they shed their Blood it shall be costly to them He will have a price for that Blood 4. We see that the Saints way be content to be put in Prison and to suffer the Cruelty that sometimes they there meet with for Christ takes notice of it and will deeply charge it upon unmerciful ones 5. We see that the closest Prisons cannot exclude Christ nor shut out his love from his Prisoners Rom. 8.38 39. 6. We see that if there be so much iniquity in a non visit of Christs Prisoners that it shall be so charged Oh what is there in the Slaughter of so many as have been slain for Jesus sake in all Ages 7. We see that the worst state of the People of the Lord even a Prison-condition is better then the best of hard hearted wicked men for these last must be accountable for their Neglects of poor Prisoners 8. We see that omissions of small kindnesses to men in misery though we think not of them as any great matter yet will be made so nothing of at that day 9. We see how dear such must pay for it that have been and are of the Romish Religion Rev. 18.24 10. We see that Prisoners for Jesus sake though not visited by some men yet have many a sweet visit from him for he will make up their defect Vse 2. for Terrour 1. To those that visit not 2. To those that vint them to
Christ will delight to honour at that day 4. We see that we need never repent that we have been servants unto Christ for we have served such a master as will surely honour us If he that waiteth on his Master come to honour Prov 27.18 much more they that wait upon such a master as he is 5. Wee see how contemptible the honour of the World should be we should trample upon it with disdaiâ— rather then lose the hope of Christs honour at that day 6. We see that they that seeks Christs Honour more then their own shall be no loosers by it for he will honour them at that day 7. We see with what diligence and chearfulness we should goe about our Master service for he will Honour us at that day 8. We see how tender we should be of the name of Christ that no dishonour may come to him by our meanes for he will set us at his right hand with Honour Of the second Branch 1. We see how Just the Lord is and how equal his wayes are in putting dishonour upon them that have dishonoured him Ezek 18.25 2. We see the folly of those men that seek Honour from men and make it the chiefe thing that they desire after alas these little think of the dishonour that shall be put upon them at the day of Judgement 3. We see the mischiefe that is in Sin it puts the greatest dishonour upon those that are given to it 4. We see the wofull estate of such Isai 3 11. 5. We see that evill men shall find that that they can least bear at that day and that is dishonour 6. We see the trueth of that in Prov. 3.35 Vse 2. for Terrour 1. To all high Climbing ambitious spirits that covet to be above others 2. To those that doe all they can to dishonour Christ they shall have dishonour for dishonour Vse 3. for Exhortation 1. To Saints 1. To Honour Christ Jesus Psal 2.12 2. To rejoyce in hope of this honour Rom. 12.12 3. To long for the day when it shall be Apoc. 22.20 4. To beware we dishonour not our selves but possess our vessels in holiness honour 1 Thes 4.3 4. 5. To esteem highly of the reproach of Christ Heb 11.26 6. To do all that wee can for him 7. To suffer any thing for him 8. To stick constantly to him 2. To evil men 1. To tremble at the dishonour that shall then be put upon them 2. To give honour to the Lord by Repentance Faith Obedience 3. To despise worldly honours for Christ 4. To hearken to Christs voyce Prov. 1.22 23 24 25. 5. To think of this day often to prevent this evill 6. To desire of God that whatever they have been formerly they may not be found in that state Vse 4. for Consolation 1. Against the Worlds dishonour that is put upon us 2. Against the honour that wicked men have put upon them here 3. Against all our feares lest we should share in the dishonour at that day 4. Against Satanical whisperers of Goat-like behaviour in former times Verse 34. Then shall the King say to them on his right hand c. Doct. VIII That before the dreadfull Sentence of condemnation be pronounced against the Reprobate the elect Saints shall be absolved and acquitted He begins with them first Reasons 1. They are appointed to rise first 1 Thes 4.17 and that may be a pledg of their Sentence of absolution to be first passed upon them 2. They are to sit with Christ to judg the world and to judg Angels 1 Cor. 6.2 3. and therefore it is meet they should be first absolved acquited before the sentence of condemnation be passed upon the reprobate 3. The Lord will have them to be without fear at that day now if they should not be first in their sentence of absolution they could not chuse but be affraid at the dreadfull sentence of condemnation upon reprobates and therefore that the Judg may take away all fear from them at that day he first begins with them and acquits them 4. That day is the day of their Redemption Luke 21.28 and if it were not so that they were first acquitted it could not be so for they would be in captivity to trouble and trembling and then it could not be a day of redemption to them 5. That day is a day of refreshing to the Saints Acts 3.19 and that it may appear to be a day of refreshing to them they are first acquitted before the other are condemned 6. The day is called the day of Restitution Acts 3.21 wherin all that the Lord hath promised shall be restored to them all their peace all their comfort all their pilviledges all their honour shall be restored to them at that day and therefore they are first to have the sentence of absolution passed upon them 7. At that day they are to have dominion over the wicked Psal 49.14 this is part of their dominion that they shall have the sentence of absolution first passed upon them 8. That day is the day they love 2 Tiâ— 4.8 The day they look for Heb. 9.28 the day they wish pray for Cant. 8.14 Apo. 22.20 But soit would not be if Saints were not first to be absolved 9 That day is the day of clearing 1 Cor. 4.5 wherin hidden things are to be brought to light and the Saints are to have praise of God and when they come to be first absolved then this will be 10. That day is the day of Christ Phil. 1.6 and the day of God 2 Pet. 3.12 wherein the Wisedome of Christ and the Justice of Christ shall shine forth and all these will appear manifestly in passing the sentence of absolution first upon elect ones 11. That day is called the great day Iude verse 6. and that is one reason of it in that the Lord Jesus will then make his name so great in the admiring of his Saints 2 Thes 1.10 in the sentence of absolution that he first passeth upon them 12. That day is the day when he will reward his servants Apoc. 22.12 and that is one principall thing in the reward of his servants that he doth first cheer their hearts in absolving them before he come to pronounce the dreadfull sentence of condemnation against the wicked Vse 1. for Information 1. We see how tender the Lord Jesus will be of his Electâ—ones at that day that he will take away all cause of feare from them he would have them without fear here when they have most cause to be affraid Lam. 3.57 Isai 41.10 but at that day he would not have them to have so much as a shaddow of fear upon them and therefore takes a sure course to prevent it by absolving and acquitting them before be pass the sentence of Condemnation upon the wicked 2. We see how desireable that day should be to all the Lords Elect Saints for it is the day wherein they shall be fully acquited and absolved
by the Judg of quick and dead well may they long and look for that blessed day 3. We see what love we should express to Jesus Christ how can we love him enough that will at that day so lovingly absolve and acquit us a Malefactour would for ever love that Judg that when he might have coÌ„demned him will notwithstanding graciously acquit him and that before he Condemn others So much more should we 1 Cor. 16.22 4. We see a reason why Christ shall be so glorified in his Saints at that day 2 Thes 1.10 there is good cause why it should be so for he will first begin with absolving them before he do any thing else at the day of Judgment 5. We see why he should be the first and chief with us the first in our desires and above all others in our esteem Psal 73.25 Cant. 5.10 for we shall be the first with him at that day he will first acquit us before he do any thing else at the great day 6. We see what great reason we have to justifie and clear him in all his dispensations of himselfe to us in all the afflictions troubles and all the evils that pass over our heads in this World Psal 51.4 Nehem. 9.33 for as he doth here acquit us in his word and by his spirit so at that day he will with his own blessed mouth pass the blessed sentence of absolution upon us and it shall be the first thing that he will then do 7 We see that what the Lord calls his Servants to he will then surely inable them to and remove that that might hinder them he calls his servants then to an honourable work to Judg the World to Judg Angells and that they may not be in the least surprized with fear and so hindred he takes that away and first passeth the sentence of absolution upon them before he condemn the wicked World 8. We see what tenderness we should use toward his Saints and people we should do what we can to take them off from all their feares such as are in temptation that are full of feares if we judg them such as Christ hath acquitted and will acquit at that day we should do as he doth do what we can to take them off from all their feares 1 Thes 5.14 Isai 35.3 4. 9. We see the Wisedome and Justice of Christ Jesus the Judg that he will have nothing to trouble his Saints with it is the wisdome and justice of an earthly Judg to incourage those that are innocent and acquit them So here 2 Tim. 4.8 10. We see what great honour the Lord will put upon his Elect Saints at that day in that he will acquit them and absolve them before his Father and the Holy Angels and the whole World it is an honour to a poor man that is brought before an earthly Judg to be acquitted before all the company that are present at the assize Oh what an honour then will the Lord Jesus put upon them that are his Elect at that day whom he will acquit before God Angels and Men when the whole World shall be convented before him Such honour have all his Saints if the Psalmist said so upon a less occasion Psal 149.9 much more may we say so upon this 11. We see what a mercy it is to be acquitted here in the assurance of the pardon of our Sins Psal 32.1 2. for it is a blessed pledg of our acquitting at that day 12. We see how cordially the Lord Jesus will absolve his Elect ones at that day for he it is that hath satisfied divine Justice and payd all their debts for them and therefore will heartily acquit them and with much cheerfulness pronounce the sentence of absolution upon them Vse 2. for Terrour to wicked men For this must needs add to their Horrour and Amazement that others are acquitted and themselves in a fearfull expectation of being Condemned So it would be Horrour to those who were to be Condemned in mans Court to see others acquitted first and so it will be here see Luk. 13.28 Vse 3. for Humiliation 1. That we are so full of censuring of this and that body how doest thou know but that thou censurest them that Christ Jesus will acquit at that day Jam. 3.1 2. That that day is no more longed for and desired after they that know they shall be acquitted having gotten the Kings pardon long for the day of Assize So should we Vse 4. for Exhortation 1. To make sure of the pardon of our Sins here that we may with comfort expect acquitting and absolution at that day for Blessed is he c Psal 31.1 2. 2. To make our calling and Election sure 2 Pet. 1.10 for they are Elect ones that shall be absolved and acquitted at that day 3. To sigh and groan earnestly in our desires after that blessed day Apoc. 22.20 Who would not desire to be acquitted and absolved by the Judge in the Judgment day 4. To thank Christ Jesus who hath procured our pardon and will then fully absolve us and acquit us Ephes 1.7 Mic. 7.18 5. To be the first in duty and service unto him who begins with us first in that day in absolving of us see for illustration 2 Sam. 19.11 12. we had not need be last in our duty to him who makes us first in that day 6. To honour the Lord Jesus by believing in him who will thus honour us at that day if 1 Pet. 2.17 then much more are we to honour him 7.10 wait patiently for his coming Jam. 5.7 8. 8. To Judge nothing before the time 1 Cor. 4.5 9. To be weaâ—ed from mens praises for what are these to this acquitting 2 Cor. 10.18 1 Thes 2.6 10 To rulers in the Common Wealth to acquit those that are innocent Deut. 25.1 Vse 5. for Consolation 1. Against all rash private censures and Judgments passed upon them wâ—ereby they are condemned of evill men Christ Jesus will absolve them at that day 1 Cor. 4.3 4. 2. â—gainst slanders more publiquely laid upon them as Mat. 11.18 19. Act. 28.22 3. Against the unjust and wrongfull sentences that are passed in Judgement seats on earth Eccl. 3.16 17. if they condemn now and Christ acquit then it 's no matter 4. Against all the accusations of Satan and all the false Charges that he hath brought in against them day or night Apoc. 12.10 if Christ acquit at that day who is he that shall Condemn Rom. 8.35 5. Against all the feares the Saints have in their own hearts at that acquitting day and ever after they shall be free from all their feares 6. Against mens light esteem of them they shall be honoured with the first and they only at that day Doct IX is this That the Lord Jesus in the day of Judgment will shew himselfe a King to his People The King shall say c For opening of which let me shew 1. Wherein he will shew himself a King 2. Why. 3. The