is to liue by faith p. 203. 204 What is to be done that we might liue by faith viz. 1. Aquaint our selues familiarly with the Word of God 2. Exercise faith aright in the Word p. 204. 205 Besides expresse Cmmandements and direct promises there be speciall promises and commandements by consequent which we are to note and make vse of p. 205. 206 The acts of faith about the Word 1. It doth firmely and vniuersally assent to the whole Word of God and set a due price and value vpon it p. 207 2. It ponders the word seriously and treasures it vp safe ibid. 3. It preserues and keeps in the way of the promises ibid. 4. It plyes the throne of grace with earnest and continuall supplications ibid. 5. It looketh vp directly vnto God his wisdome power mercy and faithfulnesse p. 208 6. It resteth quietly vpon God and tryumpheth before the victory p. 208 Meanes to stirre vp our selues to liue by faith scil 1. Find out thy vnbeliefe p. 208. 209. 210. c. 2. See the necessity and pretiousnesse of faith p. 213 3. Meditate on the grounds of faith p. 213. 214 4. Feeling weaknesse of faith looke on Christ p. 214 5. Pray for the Spirit of faith p. 215 CHAP. II. WHat is meant by Gods promises and the diuers kinds therof p. 216 The promise of forgiuenesse of sinnes ibid. This promise is free p. 217 Yet obtained through Christ only ibid. And receiued and possessed by faith and by it alone p. 217 218 This promise is of faith 1. That it might be of free grace ibid. 2. That it might bee stedfast and sure to all the seed ibid. 3. That only is the true manner of Iustification which shuts forth all boasting in the dignity of our workes p. 218. 219 Its necessary to seeke pardon of sinne by faith for 1. In our selues we be sinfull and cursed and remission which is of grace can be obtained by no other meanes but only by faith in Iesus Christ p. 219 2. Faith goeth directly vnto Christ that by him wee might be justified ibid. 3. Faith in the promises of mercy doth commend and maintaine the glory of Gods grace p. 220 The acts of faith touching this promise of forgiuenes be diuers 1. It generally belieueth the promise to bee true and thereby discernes that sinne is pardonable p. 220. 221 2. It stirreth vp earnest desires and longings to bee made partaker of this mercy p. 221. 222 3. It draweth vs forward to seeke mercy of God by vnfained confession and hearty supplication p. 222. 223. 224 4. It embraceth and resteth vpon the speciall and free mercy of God in Christ for pardon p. 224. 225 5. It doth certifie of pardon granted and sealed vnto vs. p. 225 How faith doth assure that our sinnes are already pardoned p. 225. 226 Three prerogatiues accompany confident assurance 1. Peace with God 2. Free accesse vnto the throne of grace 3. Ioy in the Holy Ghost vnspeakable and glorious p. 227. 228 6. By faith we continue in this blessed state in sweet peace and fellowship with God p. 228. 229 A Christian may liue by faith for many dayes or rather all the dayes of his life in sweet peace and communion with God if he will learne to maintaine and take paines to exercise his faith aright p. 230. 231. 232 To what measure of ioy a Christian may attaine p. 232. 233 Two speciall causes there be why many good Christians liue so long in feare and doubt 1. An immoderate aggrauation of their sinne and continuall thought of their vnworthinesse p. 234 These must know it is good to deny themselues but not to doubt of the mercy of the Lord. ibid. The detestation of sinne is greatly to be commended if they remember withall that there is hope in Israel concerning this p. 235 There be sins of ignorance infirmitie forgetfulnesse and sudden passion and there be foule enormous notorious sinnes which wound conscience p. 235. 236 If a man haue often fallen into notorious offences he is not to despaire ibid. A foule offence after grace receiued is not vnpardonable p. 236. 237 Many complaine they cannot belieue when indeed they thinke there is no promise of mercy made vnto them vpon which they should ground their confidence ibid. Such must know 1. that God calleth them in his word to come vnto him as if he did particularly name them 2. They must consider of the free grace of God in promising and his faithfulnesse in making good whatsoeuer he bath promised ibid. The second cause is ignorance of the way how this assurance is to be sought vpon what foundation it is to bee laid in what order they come vnto it p. 238 Two things are specially to be learned for their direction 1. That assoone as euer a man feeles sin as a burden and doth truly thirst to bee eased of it hee hath a calling to come vnto Christ p. 238 2. The barren in grace must come vnto Christ to bee supplyed of his fulnesse p. 239 Directions to the weake how to stirre vp themselues to beleeue when they feele no comfort p. 239 1. They must vnfainedly humble their soules before God in the confession of sinne with earnest prayer for pardon p. 240 2. They must rowse and stirre vp themselues to beleeue with reasons drawne from the promises and couenant of God made in Iesus Christ considerations taken out of the word and experience of his dealing with other his seruants in former times p. 241. 242 3. They must be instant with the Lord to giue them both strength of faith the sight of their belief p. 242. 243 4. They must comfort their hearts in the certainty of Gods word though for the present they feele no comfort p. 243 Thus faith is daily to be preserued and quickened ibid. CHAP. III. OF the promises of Sanctification p. 244 A Christian is allowed to beleeue these promises for 1. In the couenant of grace God hath promised to take away the heart of stone c. p. 245 2. The fountaine of grace is set open vnto the thirsty and he is inuited to come and drinke to the satisfying of his soule p. 245. 246 3. Christ by his bloud hath purchased for his people all spirituall blessings in heauenly things ibid. 4. We are taught to aske of God in Christ increase and strength of grace ibid. 5. The faithfull haue relyed vpon Christ for grace and ability to walke in his wayes ibid. 6. Mans duty is Gods free gift of grace ibid. It is necessary to belieue that God will sanctifie our nature and enable to the duties of holinesse p. 246. 247 For 1. Iustification sanctification be indiuiduall p. 247 2. Otherwise Christians shall very much stagger be off and on coldly set vpon the practice of Christianity ibid. 3. Our owne strength is too weake for the worke of holinesse ibid. 4. Setlednesse in this that God will perfect the worke of holinesse begun causeth men to goe about
is weake in foure respects Rom. 14.1 15.1 Heb. 5.11.12 1. Cor. 8.10 Math. 16.16 Luke 9.45 Marke 9.9 Iohn 20.9 Marke 16 11. Iohn 14.5 Him that is weake in faith receiue you but not to doubtfull disputations The Disciples had true faith when they were very weake in knowledge For though they belieued that Christ was the Messiah yet they were ignorant of his Death and Resurrection and Ascension When he told them of his sufferings they vnderstood not that saying when Mary told them of his Resurrection they beleued it not when hee spake of his tarrying with them a little and then of going vnto his Father they knew not what it meant Secondly faith is weake in assent when a Christian giues credit to the principles of doctrine and promises of life not only as true and certaine but as much better then life it selfe yet not without much reasoning and disputing in himselfe Lord I belieue helpe mine vnbeliefe Marke 9 24. Thirdly In confidence it is feeble when the Belieuer rolls himselfe vpon Christ and the promises of mercie made in him purposing to adhere and cleaue vnto him though he feele that he hangeth but weakly discerne not the certaintie of his estate nor the stablenesse of Gods promises cannot assure himselfe that he doth belieue is soone discouraged in troubles and readie to faint if helpe come not presently Math. 8.26 14.31 But when the minde is perplexed with temptations feares and doubts and the heart ready to faint not able with cleare euidence to receiue the promises yet then this true Belieuer is habitually resolued not without great dread and wauering that it is good to trust and waite vpon the Lord. Psal 73.28 And this must be remembred for certaine that howsoeuer faith bee often shaken oppressed with feares or turned aside with oppositions that be made against it for a time as the Disciples did all forsake our Sauiour and flee Math. 26.56 when he was apprehended yet the weakest faith is aduisedly resolued to sticke fast vnto the promises of life as much better then the pleasures or profits of this life and to embrace Christ notwithstanding any opposition by allurement or terrour that the Deuill the World or the Flesh can make against it Fourthly In the fruites and effects thereof faith is weake as in the sence of Gods loue assurance of his grace and fauour power to subdue vnruly passions contempt of the world patience and ioy in tribulation and the constant Ordinarily belieuers are weake at the fiâ—st liuely practice of holinesse Ordinarily this is the state of Belieuers at their first conuersion and who can expect it should bee otherwise Wee doe not looke that a new borne babe should bee able to goe alone if strength come with age wee thinke it is well And thus it fareth with them also who are not conscionable to gaine knowledge subdue their corruptions cherish faith nourish the motions of Gods Spirit pray earnestly watch narrowly get resolution of their doubts tie vp their passions renue their repentance and purpose to better obedience Some priuiledged aboue others But some there are whom God in speciall manner doth priuiledge at one time and in one day to receiue that grace and gift of assurance which others are long labouring and trauelling for before they attaine it As our Sauiour Christ pronounceth of Zacheus Luke 19.9 This day is this Man become the Sonne of Abraham and saluation is come into his house So Lydia her heart was opened Acts 16.14 that she attended to the preaching of Paul the Iaylour and the Iewes who were pricked in conscience at the preaching of Peter Acts 16.34 2.38 Math. 9.9 Luke 22.43 Faith weake in one respect may be strong in another Heb. 11.31 were quickly comforted after they were throwne downe The like may be said of Matthew and the thiefe who was conuerted vpon the Crosse Againe faith may be weake or small in one particular when it is great and strong in another The measure of knowledge may bee scant when affiance is strong according to that a man doth know as in Rahab where there is small assurance of pardon there strength of faith may discouer it selfe by striuing against doubting bitter complaining for want of feeling comfort feruent seeking to be setled in belieuing earnest longing after and vnsatiable desire of grace high prizing and valuation of Iesus Christ and mercie promised in him selfe-deniall contempt of the world care to search out the sinne that may possibly hinder comfort and expell it continuall watchfulnesse and holy iealousie lest they should bee deceiued and faithfull labouring to subdue corruption These and such like fruits of sound liuely wel-rooted affiance may bee seene in many that bee troubled with manifold feares and doubts of their owne saluation though they themselues doe not euer perceiue how God hath enriched them § 8. A weake and strong faith differ not in speciall nature and plantation but in degree §. .8 The benefits of the weakest faith if true and liuely Rom. 11.20 and the fruites of weake and strong faith are the same though not in like measure fulnesse and comfort More distinctly the benefits of the weakest liuely faith be these By it the Belieuer is firmely and inseperably knit vnto Christ as a liuing member vnto the Head A true Belleuer though neuer so weâ—ke Iohn 14 17. 6.35 â—phes 3.17 1. Iohn 5.20 Heb. 1â— 1 doth possesse Christ with all his benefits and all sufficiencie in him for knowledge of faith is neuer without pâ—ssession And so he is iustified sanctified adopted and made free by Christ By faith he apprehendeth things inuisible he doth see God and is made wise vnto saluation Iohn 17.3 6 54 Col. â— 12 13. Rom. 6.4 5. Eternall life is alreadie begunne in euery Belieuer weake and strong euen that life which shall neuer fade The weakest faith giues will and abilitie in some sort to walke vprightly and to liue honestly in the sight of God and Man it is also strong through the power of Christ to vanquish Satan and ouercome the world 1. Iohn 5.4 with whatsoeuer is therein that maketh head against the soueraignetie of grace Iohn 7.37 38. Rom. 11.29 Rom. 1.17 The weakest faith is euer ioyned with the gift of perseuerance and cannot vtterly bee broken off And weake faith if found will grow and increase as a childe now feeble in his ioynts may in time become strong by nourishment Yet should wee striue to bee strong and rich in faith and able to runne about It is no wisdome therefore for any man to content himselfe with a little faith though the weakest faith shall neuer faile nor be ouercome by Satan seeing God hath prouided and doth afford meanes whereby we may be builded forward It is a shame to be a man in yeares and a bâ—be in knowledge to be an Infant in faith when God vouchsafeth time and meanes of
excell our selues In earthly things men are willing to better their condition and shall wee bee careles in heauenly things to prouide well for our selues In faire weather the Traueller will carrie his Cloake because the season may change before his returne A strong faith is euer of vse most needfull in temptations of long continuance and grieuous to be borne and though now we liue peace we know not how soone we may be called forth to tryall what seruice we may bee put vnto or the Lord will exercise vs. § 10. But here wee must remember the strongest faith hath infirmities §. 10. The strongest faith is subiect to sundry infirmities Iob 3.3.8 Num. 20.10.11.12 1. King 19.4 vnder which it groaneth and is subiect to temptations both on the right hand and on the left euen strong temptations whereby it is shaken for a time Iobs faith was shakâ—n when he cursed the day of his birth Moses his Faith quailed at the rocke Eliah that famous belieuer who had raised the dead would bee dead in a passion Long delayes did both trie and shake the faith of Abraham Gen. 15.2 In one and the same belieuer faith is sometimes greater and stronger another time more weake and infirme Psal 3.5 with 31.22 1. Sam. 27.1 stronger in a great assault weaker in a lesse The gift of faith is without repentance and being once kindly planted in the heart there it remaineth for euer but in regard of greatnesse or meanesse it hath many alterations increasings and decreasings yea the strong belieuer doth sometimes shrinke and draw backe like a coward in small temptations and the weake doth quit himselfe valiantly in great tryals The strong must not bee carelesse as if hee should neuer doubt againe or be brought into straits The stronge belieuer doth sometimes shrinke when the weake stands fasts The weake must not bee dismayed as if they should vtterly bee ouerthrowne Both weake and strong must looke for tryals and bee carefull to preserue and grow in faith For the state of grace in this life is such as hath still reliques of sinne dwelling with it and the Deuill and the world still lay siege against the castle of our faith to batter it and preuaile much when they finde vs secure and carelesse but are preuented by diligence and watchfulnesse the Lord assisting CHAP. XI Of the right plantation of faith and meanes whereby it is confirmed § 1. THE necessarie vse and excellent fruites of faith §. 1. should incite men if they want to seeke it with all diligence and if they be pertakers of that heauenly gift to hold and keepe it to increase and growe therein Motiues and encouragements to belieue 2. Cor. 5 20. And this the rather because wee haue many encouragements to belieue God doth beseech men to bee reconciled vnto him Should not this wonderfull clemencie of God encourage vs with boldnesse and confidence to come vnto him Christ himselfe doth graciously inuite all that be poore Isay 55.1 Math. 11 28. needie wearie and heauie laden to come vnto him and the Lord maketh a generall proclamation of libertie to all distressed soules that will come and receiue it without exception of any in particular which should the rather affect if wee consider who it is that proclaimeth inuite h beseecheth namely God who is able to helpe and readie to forgiue and succour If a couetous man should offer vs any greate kindnes Deu. 7.9 wee might doubt of performance because it is contrarie to his nature but it is not so with our God his name is gratious and his nature is to be faithfull in performance and true in offer and promising In the couenant that God of his rich grace and mercie hath made with his Church and people seâ—led with Sacraments and confirmed by oath Ier 31.34 Heb. 10.16 Psal 32.10 Esay 55.7 Ezek. 18.21 and 33.11 Math. 3 17. Esâ—y 1.18 Tit. 2.14 1. Ioh. 1 7. remission of sinnes secret and open great and small of what qualitie soeuer is promised and assured to them that repent and belieue And when life and saluation is promised to them that will receiue it by faith no man is excluded from that mercie but hee that shuts forth himselfe by infidelitie Wee haue a Sauiour who came into the world to saue sinners Mar. 16.16 Ioh. 3.15.16 and 6 34.40 Act. 10.43 Math. 1.21 and 18.11 Luk. 19.10 and is able to deliuer vs out of the hands of all our enemies his redemption being both pretious and plentifull And therefore though the multitude and grieuousnesse of our sinnes should encrease our repentance yet they should not diminish our faith and diligence in seeking assurance of forgiuenesse For though our debt was neuer so great our suertie Christ Iesus hath paid it to the vtmost farthing The Lord who is best acquainted with his owne loue merc e and compassion and knoweth what is pleasing and acceptable vnto him 1. Ioh. 3.23.24 hath straightely charged and commaunded vs to belieue in him and belieuing will bestow vpon vs eternall life according to promise And can there be any fraud in Gods word or danger in yeelding obedience to his Commaundement What neede we feare to commit our soules to him 2. Tim. 1.12 who is able to keepe them and hath bound himselfe to saue them if we relie vpon him Our Faith is directed to God in and through Iesus Christ our neere kinsman who hath taken our nature and is become flesh of our flesh Though wee feared some great man yet were hee maried to our house very neare vs this circumstance would animate vs not a little the same should wee thinke of our God maried as aforesaid to our flesh Heb. 7.25 Christ our Sauiour and high Priest euer liueth to appeare in heauen before his Father and to make intercession for vs. Math. 9.6 The Father who hath committed all iudgement to the Sonne hath giuen vnto him power to remit and pardon sinne 2. Cor. 5.19 and he as our suretie hauing all our debt laid vpon him hath by one oblation of himselfe once offered purchased for vs eternall redemption and by vertue of his obedience hath receiued for vs whatsoeuer he distributeth vnto vs. By belieuing wee glorifie God both in his truth power wisedome loue grace and mercie Rom. 4.20 whom before wee dishonoured by our sinnes For the grace of God is manifested by faith in Iesus Christ Rom. 3.24.28 in the declaration and acknowledgment whereof standeth the chiefe praise and glory of the Lord as the the last end of all his workes Mercie and compassion in Man is but as the drop of a bucket in comparison of that huge Ocean of grace that is to be found in our God Math. 18.21.22 But God requires that wee should forgiue our Brother seuentie times seuen times if hee did repent after hee had trespassed against vs and wil not our God who exacteâ—h such compassion in vs
grace as well as any benefite tending thereunto As we are iustified by faith so wee are saued by faith Eph. 2.8 not in respect of present saluation or redemption whereof here we are pertakers but in respect of glorification to come in due time to be reuealed Belieue on the Lord Iesus Act. 16.31 and thou shalt hee saued By faith wee haue accesse into this grace Rom. 5.2 wherein wee stand and reioyce in the hope of glory When the Apostle saith With the heart Man belieueth vnto righteousnesse Rom. 10.10 and with the mouth confession is made vnto saluation Hâ—e doth not so distinguish these two as if faith were the cause of righteousnes confession of saluation or as if faith were sufficient to righteousnes but not to saluation for hee had often said Rom. 4 16. that wee are saued by faith that the promise is by faith But he describes the qualification of that faith which iustifyeth and saueth namely that it is a stedfast affiance that flyeth to God by heartie supplication and breaketh forth into profession of Gods name The promise is Rom. 10.11 Whosoeuer shall call vpon the name of the Lord shall be saued and faith herein flyeth to the throne of grace with ardent supplications and layeth hold of saluation promised of grace Secondly Faith doth not begin to apprehend life and then leaue it it to works that we might attain the accoÌ„plishment by theÌ„ but it doth euer rest vpon the promise vntill we come to enioy it Heauen is an inheritance freely vouchsafed to the adopted sonnes of God whose interest vnto it commeth by belieuing not by working Rom. 6.23 The gift of God is eternall life through Iesus Christ our Lord if it be a gift of meere fauour it cannot be of workes Eph. 2.8.9.10 Gal. 3.18 If the inheritance be of the Law it is no more of promise but God gaue it to Abraham by promise And that which God will doe about his children in the day of iudgement is called mercy 2. Tim. 1.18 The Lord shew mercy to Onesiphorus in that day The immediate cause of life is Gods grace as the immediate cause of death is sin Rom. 5.21 But if life be of grace it is by faith We are kept by the power of God through faith vnto saluation 1. Pet. 1.5 So that our faith neuer giues ouer till wee come to bee actually possessed of the immortall and vndefiled inheritance reserued for vs in Heauen Thirdly By faith we receiue the promised Spirit as the earnest of our inheritance vntill the redemption of the purchased possession Gal. 3.14 Because ye are sonnes God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Sonne into your hearts crying Ezek. 34.29 Gal. 4 6. Rom. 8.15 Abba Father The holy Ghost doth first infuse the grace of faith into our hearts whereby we belieue but belieuing and being made the sonnes of God wee receiue the Spirit more fully and manifestly dwelling in vs to sanctification and assurance of our Redemption By the benefite of the holy Ghost faith springeth in vs by which faith the abundance of the selfe-same spirit is increased and so of a greater faith is still made a greater increase of the Spirit In whom after yee belieued Ephe. 1.13 yee were sealed with the Spirit of promise He that belieueth Iohn 7.38 out of his belly shall flow riuers of liuing water And these gifts of the Spirit which we receiue by faith from Christ our Head are the beginnings of that glorious life we expect and looke for one in substance different in degrees and according to the measure of grace receiued so is the life of glory begunne in vs. Fourthly Faith in the promises of euerlasting life leadeth forward in the pathes of peace and righteousnes It mortifyeth corruption studyeth holinesse Math. 6.21 raiseth the heart to things aboue and directeth the conuersation according to the pollicie of the new Ierusalem Life eternâ—ll is not giuen for workes but it is the good pleasure of God that his children should be holy and exercise themselues in all good workes Rom. 8.13 Gal. 6.8 If yee through the Spirit doe mortifie the deeds of the body yee shall liue He that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reape life euerlasting Blessed are the pure in heart Math. 5 8. for they shall see God Follow peace with all men and holinesse Heb. 12.14 without which no man shall see the Lord. Charge them that be rich in this world that they bee not high minded nor trust in vncertaine riches but in the liuing God who giueth richly all things to inioy That they doe good that they be rich in good workes ready to distribute willing to communicate 1. Tim. 6.17.18.19 Laying vp in store for themselues a good foundation against the time to come that they may lay hold on eternall life But yee beloued building vp your selues in your most holy faith praying in the holy Ghost keepe your selues in the loue of God Iude verse 20.21 Iam. 1.12.25 Math. 35.34.35 looking for the mercy of our Lord Iesus Christ vnto eternall life Come yâ—e blessed of my Father inherit the kingdome prepared for you from the foundation of the world For I was hungred and yee gaue mee meate c. These and such like passages of Scripture shew not the cause why but the qualification of the persons vnto whom not how it is deserued but what doth precede the bestowing of life eternall And faith that looketh for that blessed hope and layeth hold vpon the promise of that heauenly and incorruptible inheritance lifteth vp the heart into Heauen kindleth loue inflameth with zeale encourage h against difficulties and inciteth to run the way of Gods Commandements If probable hope of great aduantage drawes on the Merchant to vndertake a long and tedious voyage by Sea notwithstanding the many casualties and perils wherewith it is beset faith in the assured promises of God concerning saluation will set a man forward in his Christian iourney hold hâ—m on in his way with courage and chearefulnesse and hearten him to the workes of godlinesse notwithstanding the temptations of Satan the allurements of the world or oppositions of the flesh to the contrarie Phil. 3.20 Our conuersation is in Heauen from whence also wee looke for the Sauiour the Lord Iesus Christ Col. 1.3.4.5 Wee giue thankes to God and since wee heard of your faith in Christ Iesus and of the loue which yee hau to all the Saints For the hope which is laid vp for you in Heauen Heb. 11.13 14.15.16 By faith Abraham Isaâ—c and Iacob confessed that they were pilgrimes and strangers on the earth and hauing oportunitie would not returne into their owne countrey because they desired a better countrey that is an heauenly Fiftly It seeketh to get our title confirmed and assured to the conscience by euidence and earnest or pawne it exerciseth it selfe vpon the
in Heauen a better and an enduring substance who for this hope endured the crosse and despised shame Heb. 12.2 as is testified of our Sauiour himselfe By faith Moses when he was come to yeares refused to be called the sonne of Pharoahs daughter chusing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God then to enioy the pleasures of sinne for a season Heb. 11.24 25 26. Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches then the treasures of Egypt for he had respect vnto the recompence of reward Heb. 11.35 By faith others were tortured not accepting deliuerance that they might obtaine a better resurrection The way or meanes to stirre vp faith in these promises The meanes to stirre vp faith in these promises is First to humble our selues vnfainedly in respect of our miserable and accursed estate by sinne and former carelessenesse to seeke mercie enter possession and get assured euidence of that euerlasting inheritance Woe is mee how I am fallen from that state of blessednesse wherein I was first created into a most miserable and accursed condition I haue grieuously sinned and God is highly prouoked the sentence of the Law is alreadie gone forth I am shut vp vnder wrath and if I haue my desert I can expect nothing but the terrible execution of fearefull vengâ—ance denounced Mortalitie as a worme corrupteth my bodie ignorance and lust tyrannize in my soule my condition is exposed to a thousand vanities and wearisome courses and through feare of death the vpshot of euils Heb. 2.15 I am subiect to bondage all my life In my first estate I was made far aboue all visible Creatures and by free bountie lifted vp to bee the Fauourite of the most High God but by wilfull disobedience I am fallen into Gods displeasure and lie prisonâ—r vnder the reuenging iustice of the law Nor is my wretched condition worse then my carelesnesse to be deliuered from it The bruite beasts take it as a grieuous thing to bee ensnared and taken but I haue delighted in bondâ—ge and counted it a libertie to liue a slaue to Satan and to follow things and courses pleasing corrupt nature Thou Lord of thine infinite grace hast proclaimed libertie published peace and made offer of a better state and condition in Christ then what I formerly lost in Adam But I preferred spirituall thraldome to libe tie death to life and chose rather to follow the temptations of Satan and to fulfill the lusts of the flesh then to come vnto Christ that I might be saued The men of this world are wise in their generation to accept of earthly commodities when they bee offered and not to put by the opportunitie but when the Lord hath made promise of euerlasting life if I would renounce the pleasures of sinne and foregoe the vanities of this world I haue followed vanitie and neglected mercie I haue dispised the great saluation and walked in the paths of death and condemnation O Lord it is thine owne worke of grace in me that euer I did bethinke my selfe of the danger of my course and repent to lay hold vpon the promises of life Nor hath my slouth and negligence to seeke euidence get assurance and enter possession of that glorious inheritance by growing vp in peace ioy holinesse and sanctification been lesse odâ—ous then former carelessenesse Since I haue been enlightned and tasted of the heauenly gift I haue sleighted the promises of mercy which should haue been my continuall meditation I haue neglected to get and keepe the holy spirit holy in it selfe making them holy in whom as temples it dwelleth the seale and earnest of the promised inheritance Ah what a dwarfe am I in holinesse and sanctification for these many yeares how little haue I gained My spirituall sight is exceeding dimme my passions boisterous my heart vnquiet my thoughts euill my nature corrupt I am dull to good apt to sinne feeble and of no power to withstand temptations shaken with many feares touching my saluation soone vnsetled and remoued from stedfastnesse by any contrarie opposition farthest to seeke for euidence and assurance when I stand in greatest need All this is come vpon me through mine owne foolishnesse because I haue not acquainted my selfe with the promises of grace nourished the motions of the Spirit carefully improued the gifts receiued endeauoured after perfection and laboured to bee sealed more and more with the promised Spirit What might I haue growen vnto in Christ if I had instantly desired the Spirit of Grace of him who giueth it heeded the inspirations and suggestions of it and by all conscionable meanes sought increase of grace and assurance of saluation Long ere now I might haue attained fulnesse of spirituall wisdome and vnderstanding strength of faith power of grace sweet communion and fellowship with God libertie and freedome to walke with God comfortable possession in part and good assurance of eternall life in due time to bee accomplished whereas by reason of sloth and negligence the powers of grace are so enfeebled that I can scarce breathe sigh crawle in the way to Heauen my heart is desolate I am a stranger to the comforts of godlinesse terrified with the remembrance of death readie to faint at the apprehension of trouble and danger and continually disquieted with feares and doubts touching mine owne saluation if the world with the things thereof haue not cast mee into the sleepe of securitie for a season The slothfull man is iustly condemned who had rather starue in Summer for lacke of bread then plough in winter because of the cold Wee censure him that had rather go lame and crooked as long as hee liueth then bee at a little paine to moue an aking ioynt He is worthily accounted improuident who neglecting to gather in his writings or sue out fine and recouerie will hâ—zard the losse of his whole inheritance My folly hath exceeded herein who to liue in peace and quiet with sinne haue impouerished my soule inâ—paired my stocke of grace wounded my conscience depriued my selfe of many rich priuiledges of grace which I might haue enioyed weakened my title to mine euerlasting inheritance and beene contented to creepe feebly towards the heauenly Canaan thinking it better to keepe where I was with quiet then to make my condition by still dealing with my selfe too too restlesse The sluggards shamelesse excuse hath fearefully bewitched me Better is an handfull with ease Eccles 4.6 then both hands full with trauell and vexation of Spirit The more excellent the inheritance I hope for is the more detestable is my sluggishnes and folly that I haue not earnestly sought to make it sure vnto my selfe and entred possession thereof so farre as in this life is giuen of grace Secondly We must incite and stirre vp our selues to receiue the promises of euerlasting life by consideration of the free and rich grace of God his truth and faithfulnesse the sufficiencie of Christs merits and greatnesse excellencie and worth of the benefit
long and manifold temptations of Satan wherewith hee seekes to throw Christians head-long into despaire is to them a testimonie of the inhabitation of the Spirit in their hearts For the power and strength whereby those assaults are repelled Math. 12.43 44 Luke 11.24 25 26. is it not of God The vncleane spirit might easily enter into the house with seuen other spirits worse then himselfe and dwell there if he found it swept and garnished that is empty and destitute of grace The strong man armed might well breake into the house if a stronger then hee did not keepe possession As the children of God are conquerours ouer many temptations so one only temptation and that of no long continuance is able to sinke the stoutest among the Reprobates who are meere drosse and refuse into the bottomlesse pit of Hell The strong assaults whereby the Deuill laboureth the ouer-throw of the poore seruant of God is to him an argument of strength receiued or that God will strengthen him For if he looke vnto God in the tentation he calleth not forth his seruants to the conflict vntill they be furnished nor will he let Satan loose vntill he haue inabled them to make resistance He will not lay waight vpon greene Timber nor crush the tender youngling with burdens vnsupportable whom God doth imploy in his warre either hee hath or will make them able for the seruice If he haue an eye vnto Satans malice why doth he muster all his forces to besiege if there bee no strength to withstand The long continued furious tentations of Satan doe make proofe that the heart is well fortified against him Meanes to stirre vp our selues to liue by faith in time of dreadfull temptation The way and meanes to stirre vp faith in these perplexities and times of grieuous temptations is First the distressed Christian must vnfainedly humble his soule for former ignorance vanitie of Minde disesteeme of mercy timorousnes discontent vnbeliefe misinterpreting the Lords doings solitary musings on the temptations of Satan selfe confidence and such other sinnes which may seeme to set vpon the soule to the fierce and dreadfull assaults of Satan and in that acknowledgement and humiliation hee must vnfold his present misery before the Lord. O my God I am ashamed and confounded and blush to lift vp my face to thee my God Ezra 9.6 for my sins are multiplied exceedingly and mine iniquities are risen vp against me I was conceiued in sinne I I haue liued in vanitie my thoughts are loose mine affections boisterous I haue disesteemed mercy regarded lying vanities giuen way to doubtfull reasonings pettishly taken on when my carnall desires haue beene crossed distusted thy promises disputed with thee of thy iudgements giuen way to thoughts of vnbeliefe harboured vnquietnesse and discontent and so exposed my soule to the most violent horrible and fierie tentations and assaults of Satan My soule which should be seasoned with sweete meditation on thy goodnesse mercie and grace manifested in Iesus Christ delighted in the promises of mercie and rauished with the ioyes of Heauen is continually pestered and assailed with the blacke and hellish thoughts of Atheisme despaire blasphemie discontent and extreamely tortured with soule-vexâ—ng feares O my God looke mercifully vpon the miserie of a poore distressed sinner I am brought into great darkenesse and can see no light There is no soundnesse in my flesh nor rest in my bones nor quiet in my soule My heart trembleth my strength faileth me my life is spent with griefe my spirit within mee is ouerwhelmed and preuailing feares so tyrannize ouer me that I cannot speake My Minde is full of disorder and confusion my heart of terrour my soule refuseth comfort In the day I am terrified with thoughts in the night affrighted with dreames Psal 38.8.10 Psal 32.4 I am sore wounded and broken I goe mourning and desolate all the day my moisture is like the drought of summer and in this deepe discomfort the Tempter ceaseth not to suggest Psal 3.2 That there is no helpe for me in my God Secondly hee must complaine of the malice of the Deuill and instantly intreate the Lord to pardon sinne bridle restraine and tread Satan vnder foote Whiles I declare mine iniquitie and am sorry for my sinne the Deuill rageth with incredible fury seeking to deuoure and swallow me vp He fighteth against me continually night and day is my soule vexed with temptations to be abhorred If I say I will remember the mercies of the Lord and thinke vpon his Name I will vnloade my soule into the bosom of my heauenly Father and waite vpon his grace then he suggesteth impious thoughts and horrible blasphemies to the great annoyance miserable distraction astonishment and vexation of my poore soule Remember me O my God according to the multitude of thy tender compassions and blot mine iniquities out of thy remembrance for thy Names sake Psal 130.5 There is mercy with thee concerning sinne pardon the trespasses of thy poore seruant and impute not vnto mee those hellish thoughts suggested by Satan which through thy grace I detest vnfainedly vnder which I desire to be sincerely humbled and from which I heartily begge to bee deliuered Returne O Lord Psal 31.16 cause the light of thy countenance to shine vpon mee refresh my parched soule with the sence of thy mercy dispell the mists of tentation rebuke Satan and restraine his malice Thou art the God of peace tread Satan Rom. 16.20 I beseech thee vnder my feete shortly that with a quiet and chearefull Spirit I may sing of thy praise and serue thee in holinesse and righteousnes all the daies of my life Thou art my strength and portion my rocke and towre of defence vnto thee doe I flie for succour Oh plead my cause against the enimie of my soule and thy glory I am purposed through thy grace to sticke and cleaue fast vnto thy mercy neuer to assent vnto or approue his horrible suggestions 1. Ioh. 5.18 Psal 35.17 Ps 22.21.22 Oh keepe mee that the euill one may neuer touch me Lord how long wilt thou looke on rescue my soule from the fierie assaults of that wicked one my darling from the Lyon I am sore troubled I am bowed downe greatly Psal 31.10 I walke in heauinesse all the day long My heart panteth my soule is exceedingly disquieted with tentations Ps 35.22 23. This thou hast seene O Lord keepe not silence O Lord bee not farre from mee Stirre vp thy selfe and awake to my iudgement curbe and chaine vp Satan that he may molest no longer and strengthen thy poore seruant that through thy might I may conquer and tryumph ouer him And my soule shall reioyce in the Lord Psal 35.9.10 it shall reioyce in his saluation All my bones shall say Lord who who is like vnto thee which deliuerest the poore from him that is too strong for him yea the poore and needie from him that spoyleth him Thirdly hee must
take the stonie heart out of their flesh and will giue them an heart of flesh I will saue them out of their dwelling places Ezek. 37.23.24 whâ—rein they haue sinned and will cleanse them so shall they bee my people and I will be their God And Dauid my seruant shall be king ouer them and they shall all haue one sheepheard they shall also walke in my iudgements and obâ—erue my statutes and doe them In that day sing yee vnto her A vineyard of red wine I the Lord doe keepe it and will water it every moment lest any hurt it I will keepe it night and day Isay 27.2.3 Surely shall one say In the Lord haue I righteousnes and strength Isay 45.24 Those that be planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God They shall still bring forth fruite in old age Psal 92.13.14 Rom. 6.14 they shall bee fat and flâ—urishing Sinne shall not haue dominion oueâ— you Now we are dâ—liu red fro the law that being dead wherein we were held Rom. 7.6 that we should serue in newnâ—s of Spirit and not in oldnes of the letter I can doe all things through Christ which strengtheneth me Phil. 4 13. The Christians obedience is imperfect but pleasing Pro. 12.22 Psâ—l 147.11 Psal 149.4 The obedience of the faithfull which through the power of grace they performe is weake imperfect but pleasing acceptable vnto God The Lord taketh pleasure in them that feare him in those that hope in his mercy The Lord taketh pleasure in his people he will beautifie the meeke with saluation In euery nation he that feareth God and worketh righteousnesse is accepted of him The Lord by Moses did often times tell his people that they offering vp their sacrifices Act. 10.35 such as he commanded they should be accepted which is often repeated by the pâ—ophets Leu. 1.3.4 and 22.21 and 23.11 Thou shalt makâ— a plate of pure gold and graue vpon it like the engrauings of a sâ—gnet Holines to the Lord and it shall be vpon Aarons forehead that Aaron may beare the iniquity of the holy things which the children of Israel shal hallow in all their holy gifts Exod. 28.36.38 and it shall be alwayes vpon his forehead that they may bee accepted before the Lord. Esay 60.7 All the flockes of Kedar shall be gathered together the Rams of Nebaioth shall minister vnto thee they shal come vp with acceptance on mine altar The Priest shall make you burnt offerings vpon the alter and your peace offerings Ezek. 43.27 20 40 41. and I will accept you saith thâ— Lord God Then shall the offerings of Iudah and Ierusaleâ— be pleasant vnto the Lord as in the dayes of old and as in former yeares Mal. 3.4 Then shalt thou be pleased with the sacrifices of righteousnes with burnt offering and whole burnt offering Psal 51.19 Hereunto may be referred the prayer of the prophet Let the words of my mouth and the meditation oâ— my heart be acceptable in thy sight O Lord my strength Psal 19.14 and my râ—deemer Accept I beseech thee the freewill offerings of my mouth O Lord and teach mee thy Iudgemâ—ntâ— Psal 119.108 Deut. 33.11 There bee many other testimonies to the same purpose I b seech you therefore brethren by the mercies of Goâ— that yee present your bodies a liuing sacrifice holy acceptable vnto God Rom. 12.1 Phil. 4.18 I am full hauing receiued of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you an odour of a sweete smell a sacrifice acceptable wel-pleasing to God But to doe good and to communicate forget not for with such sacrifices God is well pleased Yee also Heb. 13.16 1. Pet. 2.5 as liuely stones are built vp a spirituall house an holy Preisthood to offer vp spirituall sacrifice acceptable to God by Iesus Christ Children obey your parents in all things Col. 8.20 Heb. 11.5 for this is well pleasing Before his translation Enoch had receiued this testimonie that he pleased God And this faith is most necessarie to the leading of a Christian life Faith is necessary to the leading of a Christian life scil to adhere and sticke fast vnto the commandements rest vpon God for abilitie to do what he requireth and that he will accept what sincere and vnfained seruice though weake and imperfect is tendered vnto his Highnesse For the word of grace which commandeth to belieue the free mercie of the Lord to the pardoning of sinne Tit. 2.11.12 teacheth vs to denie vngodlinesse and worldly lust and to liue godly iustly and soberly in this present euil world Such as giue vp their names to Christ must not looke to bee lawlesse but they come to take a yoâ—ke vpon them Math. 11.28.29 Ioh. 13.34 and stand obliged to fulfill the law of Christ called the new Commaundement Want of belieuing the precepts is the cause why many doe still continue in the practise of diuers things inconuenient and suffer inordinate passions to hold them vnder Ignorance or carelesnesse in this point is the cause why some of the better sort of people are off and on now forward then backward scarce setled or stayed at any time not knowing how to set vpon the practice of repentance how to begin or to proceed therein Whereas this faith much auaileth to the furthering of the deare Children of God in a godly course the shâ—ning of euill and the practice of holinesse True faith is an obsequious confidence which carrieth a man whither soeuer he shâ—ll see the Lord to gâ—e before him Heb. 11.5.7.8.9.10 c. By faith Hâ—noch walked with God Noah builded an Arke Abraham offered vp his sâ—nne Isaac Moses refused to be called the son of Pharaohs daughter Our present faith or trust in God is but commensurable to our fideliâ—ie in his Commaâ—ndements ere we can make a faithfull plea for mercie Gods will neglected must bee executed either in act if the obâ—ect be present and may be prosecuted or in sincere and constant resolution if abilities and opportunities required to execution of what we resolue vpon be altogether wanting or our endeauours vpon ineuitable occasions hindred Gal. 5.6 Faith worketh by loue which constraineth men to doe the will of God and submit themselues to his holy Commandements The strength of faith to it seuerall obiects is vniforme that assurance of forgiuenesse cannot be greater then care of obedience The very consciousnesse of any one sin wherevnto we haue beene indulgent will be of like force to withdraw our assent from Gods mercy as the delight or pleasure of that sensuall obiect was to cause vs to transgresse any part of his wil reuealed The same strength beautie had to allure vnto adulterie will that foule sinne vnrepented of haue to diuorce our soules from Christ Nor can wee faile in practice of this or other Commandement without a precedent defect of that faith which onely
with many doubts and difficulties § 2. p. 96 The particular certaintie of remission of sinnes is not equall in certaine and firmenesse of assent to that assurance which we haue about the common obiect of faith § 3. p. 96. 97 There be seuerall states of Belieuers but all subiect to manifold temptations § 4. 98. 99 Beliefe in Christ for remission is stronger and more necessary then particular assurance of our saluation § 5. p. 100 Not only some vncertaine hope but euen infallible assurance of saluation is to bee sought and may bee obtained § 6 p. 101. 102. c. There is a word testifying thus much that my particular person beholding the Sonne and belieuing on him shall haue eternall life p. 101. 102. 103 Such as truly belieue may know they belieue p. 103 In respect of the exact measure of grace and strength the regenerate are oft deceiued but of the truth of grace they may be assured p. 104. 105 What it is to belieue with the whole Heart § 7. p. 105 In what sence wee must continue daily to aske of God forgiuenesse of sinnes notwithstanding former assurance of pardon p. 106. 107. 108. 109. 110 How iustification is full and entire p. 110 God hath said as to Abraham so to euery one of the seed of Abraham I will be thy God p. 111 How euery faithfull man may and doth make God his in particular ibid. The Apostles and other faithfull haue beene assured of their saluation by ordinary faith p. 111. 112 The saluation of a belieuer is infallible in it selfe and in euent but not euer in his apprehension and feeling § 9 p. 113. Assurance of faith in things extraordinarily is not altogether free from assaults p. 114 The benefits that come vnto vs by temptations p. 115. 116 The Commandements are laid before belieuers not as the cause for obtaining of eternall life but as the way to walke in vnto eternall life § 10. p. 117 Vpright walking is necessary but not the cause of Iustification p. 118 The belieuer relyeth not vpon his workes though hee exercise himselfe therein with all diligence p. 119 What infirmities may stand with assurance of faith § 11 p. 120. 121 What sinnes hinder assurance § 12. p. 123 The absolute raigne of sinne will not stand with the state of grace § 13. p. 124 True assurance breeds encrease of resolution and care to please God § 14. p. 125. 126 CHAP. IX THe authority of the Church cannot bee the ground of faith § 1. p. 128. 129 Whatsoeuer credit the Church hath it receiueth the same from the Scriptures p. 139 The authority of the Pope whom they call the Church virtuall is the first ground and last resolution of the Romanists faith § 2. p. 129. 130 Faith resteth not vpon the Saints but vpon Iesus Christ § 3. p. 132. 133 The Rhemists in defence of their Saint-inuocation are driuen to say that we are to trust in the Saints departed p. 133. 134. 135 CHAP. X. THe benefits and effects of faith § 1. p. 136. 137. 138 139. 140 Faith doth not effect and performe those things by any excellency force or efficacy of it owne aboue other graces but in respect of the office whereunto it is assigned in Couenant of grace p. 140 Of all creatures Man only is capable of iustifying faith § 2. p. 140 Faith is proper vnto Man in this life in his iourney towards his perfect home and eternall habitation p. 141 All men haue not faith p. 141 The subiect of Iustifying faith is man a sinner called according to the purpose of God acknowledging his offences hungring thirsting after mercy § 2. p. 141 The seat of faith is the heart but the heart contrite humbled bewailing sinne denying it selfe and affected with desire of remission § 3. p. 142. 143 In Scripture the heart is taken for the whole soule with all its powers and operations p. 144 Faith is common to all and peculiar to them only who bee called according to the purpose of God § 4. p. 145 All haue not the like measure of faith § 5. p. 146 Faith perfect in none p. 146. 147 The faith of the weakest Christian is sufficient to saluation § 6. p. 148 The degrees of faith may be considered according to the diuers growth which God bringeth his children vnto p. 148. 148 Foure degrees of faith § 7. 149 Faith is weake foure wayes 1. Knowledge 2. Assent 3. Confidence 4. Fruits and effects p. 149. 150 Ordinarily belieuers are weake at the first p. 150 Some priuiledged aboue others p. 151 Faith weake in one respect may be strong in another p. 151 The benefits of the weakest faith if true and liuely § 8 p. 151. 152 Weake faith if sound will grow and encrease ibid. We must striue to be strong and rich in faith p. 152. 153 Faith somewhat growne § 9. p. 153 Strong faith p. 153. 154 Full assurance gotten by degrees p. 154 The benefits of full assurance p. 154. 155 The strongest faith is subiect to sundry infirmities § 10 p. 156 The strong belieuer doth sometimes shrinke when the weake stands fast p. 156 CHAP. XI MOtiues and encouragements to belieue § 1. p. 157 158 Meanes for the right planting of faith § 2. p. 159. 160 161. c. Faith once obtained is seriously to be regarded § 3. p. 164 165 Meanes whereby faith is strengthened and confirmed § 4. p. 166. 167. 168. 169 CHAP. XII VVHy Satan endeuours by all meanes to hinder as the kindly taking so the growth of faith § 1 p. 170. 171 The first Temptation is taken from our worthlesnesse § 1 p. 171 Remedie The sence of vnworthinesse must not discourage vs from beleeuing because 1. The mercy fauour promises and benefits of God are all free p. 171 2. Wee are not more desirous to belieue then God is we should so doe p. 171. 172 The second Temptation They know not whether they bee elected § 2. Remedie 1. Hold such suggestions to arise from the Spirit of errour and lend no eare to such whisperings of the old Serpent p. 172 2. If God make offer of mercy and forgiuenesse in the Ministery of the Gospel 〈…〉 â—â—nd to receiue it ibid. The third Temptation They 〈…〉 of doubtings § 3 Remedie 1. Faith may be true 〈◊〉 liuely that is weake p. 173 2. It is not the excellency and measure of faith that doth make vs righteous before God but Christ whom faith doth receiue ibid. 3. It is not faith but Christ receiued by faith that nourisheth to eternall life ibid. 4. We reade that Christ reproued some for their small faith but neuer reiected any that came vnto him in weaknesse desiring to be confirmed p. 174 The fourth Temptation They cannot keepe their faith strong and stedfast § 4 Remedie 1. There is no shadow of change with God p. 174 2. Labouring after and groaning to rest their wearied soules vpon the promises of mercy being neuer satisfied till their doubtfulnesse be remoued
protection from all hurtfull euils so much are wee lacking to sound peace and stable tranquillity of Mind and Conscience p. 287. 288 The godly are allowed to belieue their perseuerance For 1. God hath confirmed it by promise and couenant vnto his children p. 288 2. They haue allowance to belieue the obtayning of that which Christ hath prayed for and they aske of God in the Name of Christ according to his will p. 289 3. What one belieued vpon ordinary and common grounds that is the priuiledge of all belieuers ibid. 4. It is a great glory to God that we liue by faith on him concerning our future estate p. 289. 290 The acts of faith concerning perseuerance 1. It makes a man sensible of his owne frailtie p. 290 2. It stirres vp holy iealousie and suspition least wee should coole decay start aside or fall backe ibid. 3. Faith instantly cryeth vnto the Lord for helpe and strength and continuall supply of grace p. 291 4. Faith desireth digesteth and feedeth vpon the wholesome food of life ibid. 5. It putteth forth it selfe to performe all duties of holinesse and loue with life and feruour p. 292. 293 6. It coueteth increase of grace and sanctification p. 293. 294 7. It receiueth new supply of grace continually from Iesus Christ the fountaine of grace ibid. 8. It assureth of perseuerance through the promises of grace p. 294. 295 Meanes to stirre vp our selues to belieue these promises of perseuerance 1. Wee must heartily bewaile our pronenesse to sinne aptnesse to decline inabilitie to withstand any one temptation or set one step forward in the way to Heauen p. 295. 296 2. Wee must stirre vp our selues to rest vpon God through Iesus Christ for establishment and confirmation p. 296. 297 3. Wee must pray instantly that God would vphold vs and make vs to see that hee will establish vs vnto the end p. 297. 298 CHAP. VI. THe seruants of Christ are all souldiers and haue continuall warre not with flesh and bloud but with principalities and powers and spirituall wickednesses p. 299 Encouragements to resist Satan ibid. Promises of victory p. 299. 300 In this state of temptation the godly are allowed to belieue the promises of victory For 1. The God of peace hath promised to tread Satan vnder our feet shortly p. 300 2. Faith doth glorifie God and is most profitable vnto vs our treasure strength and victory ibid. 3. We haue a charge to resist the Deuill strong in the faith p. 301 4. Faith is one of the first things that is formed in a Christian and wherewith God furnisheth him when hee prepareth and calleth him forth to the encounter ibid. 5. The faithfull cannot better prouide for their owne ease and safetie then confidently to hope in the Lord. p. 302 It is necessary a Christian should liue by faith in this condition For 1. True valour cannot be had without faith in Christ p. 302 2. All our strength lyeth in Christ whose Almightie power subdueth all things for vs. p. 302. 303 3. Faith is of force to keepe vs against all assaults of the Deuill ibid. 4. The Deuill will renew his assaults and wee must renew our courage and strength ibid. The acts of faith in respect of these promises of victory in temptation 1. Faith makes sensible that wee cannot resist of our selues but assureth that Satan is chained vp by the power of Almighty God p. 303. 304 2. It discouereth the Methods of Satan and his Ends in tempting p. 304. 305 3. It lifteth vp the heart to cry and complaine vnto God of the cruelty and malice of that Spirituall Aduersary but suffers it not to muse vpon his blasphemous temptations ibid. 4. By faith the poore soule eying the promise betakes it selfe vnto the Lord for succour promised p. 305. 306 5. It stirreth vp courage and resolution to set vpon the practice of godlinesse and the duties of our particular calling as the meanes sanctified of God to procure freedome p. 306. 307 6. It fortifieth the soule against all inuasions ibid. 7. Faith is vigilant and watchfull at all times in all places vpon all occasions p. 307. 308 8. In the most forcible tempests which the enemy rayseth against vs faith tels the heart that a calme is at hand p. 308. 309 9. If Satan renew his assaults faith stands prepared through the power of God to make resistance afresh p. 309 10. Faith assureth that by the ouer-ruling prouidence of God temptations serue for the increase of grace p. 310 The godly are sometimes brought so low that they can discerne no sparke of faith no fruit of grace no marke of Gods loue in themselues For 1. An afflicted spirit tossed with feare and terrour cannot conceiue or giue notice of it true estate p. 310 2. Good men in temptation are pettishly disposed p. 311 The Remedy in this distresse is 1. Grace may appeare vnto others when in temptation a godly man cannot discerne it in himselfe p. 310 2. It is the wisdome of a Christian in this case to obserue the marke that Satan driues at which is to hide from his fight the graces of the Spirit that he might bring him to despaire and so stirre vp himselfe to belieue For 1. When he can see no grace in his soule hee cannot but see himselfe to bee miserable and so called to come vnto Christ ibid. 2. Taking courage to belieue hee disappoints Sathan ibid. 3. Wee haue a commandement to belieue as well as to proue our selues both which must bee compleate together ibid. 4. If thou canst not find in thy selfe what thou seekest after come vnto Iesus Christ and belieue in him that thou mayst receiue what thou seekest p. 312 3. The distressed soule must learne that the grace of God worketh not alwayes alike in his children p. 312 4. The long and manifold temptations of Sathan wherewith hee seekes to throw Christians head-long into despaire is to them a testimony of the inhabitation of the Spirit in their hearts p. 312. 313 Meanes to stirre vp faith in these perplexities and times of grieuous temptations 1. The distressed Christian must vnfainedly humble his soule for former ignorance vanity of mind disesteeme of mercy timorousnes discontent vnbeliefe c. p. 313. 314 2. He must complaine of the malice of Sathan and instantly intreate the Lord to pardon sinne bridle restraine and tread Sathan vnder foot p. 314. 315 3. He must cease to muse on the temptations of Satan and stirre vp himselfe couragiously valiantly to trust in the mercies of the Lord and relye vpon his grace p. 316 317 4. He must exercise himselfe in wel-doing harbour holy and heauenly Meditations nourish the motions of Gods Spirit c. p. 317. 318. 319 If the distressed Christian haue wasted his spirits with violent and continuall sorrow hee must bee admonished not to thinke that presently hee should recouer former liuelinesse and ability p. 319. 320 CHAP. VII AFflictions are not more ordinary then heauy and burdensome to
which to faith are meerely accidentall The godly and deuout affection and willing submission to the rules of faith which is in Christians being an act of charitie and not of faith differenceth not true faith in it selfe from the faith of Hypocrites but distinguisheth faith and charitie from faith only And thus our Aduersaries make the Deuill a Catholike against his will Or if they will say that true Christian faith doth alwayes actually and necessarily imply this godly affection and willing submission of vnderstanding to the rules of faith then because this cannot bee without charitie let them say as the truth is that true Christian faith cannot bee separated from loue and good workes It is impertinent to dispute whether the faith of Deuils be naturall coact and dishonest or the faith of wicked men supernaturall voluntarie and Honest as if these things distinguished the faith of vngodly men from the faith of Deuils For if the maiestie of Gods infallible truth command the assent of Deuils to that which they loue not doth not the same cause also preuaile with vngodly men who beare no affection to God or goodnesse And as for the honestie or dishonestie of the act there can no circumstance bee named why it should bee honest in wicked men and dishonest in the Deuils for it is fearefully abused in both And if it be granted that faith without workes or grace is in men the gift of God but the faith of Deuils not so this argues a difference only in the cause not in the essence nature or qualitie And though it bee his gift yet being without grace and charitie and without these of necessitie as vnfruitfull as the faith of Deuils both which our Aduersaries grant it is no more auaileable to make a Christian then the faith of Deuils is It is further obiected if faith cannot be without charitie then faith alone doth not iustifie This followeth not Bellar. de Iustis lib. 1. cap. 15. §. At si §. postremâ— for it is one thing to say faith alone doth not iustifie another that faith which iustifieth is not alone This latter wee yield vnto the first wee denie Faith alone doth iustifie that is priuatiuely considered without hope or charitie as causes concurring therewith in iustification but this faith cannot really be seperated from or negatiuely considered without hope and charitie For though it be true that the total cause of any thing being in act the effect must needs follow yet from the totall cause we cannot separate those things together with which it hath in nature it existence and beeing and without which it cannot be in act for the producing of the effect though they conâ—erre nothing thereto because that is to denie the being of it and to destroy the cause The eye alone seeth the eare alone heareth but it must be a liuing eye and hearing eare not separated from the head or broken off from the rest of the bodie Faith alone iustifies without other graces not in regard of their presence but in regard of their co-working with faith to this effect of our Iustification It is one thing to say the eye is in the head without other senses and another thing to say the eye doth see alone no other sense seeing with it Liuelihood is the qualification of that faith that iustifieth and workes at least a preparation and promptitude of heart to good workes is an effect of faith as immediate as Iustification So then faith cannot bee withot loue and yet wee apprehend not the promises of eternall life by workes but by faith alone although truly they cannot be apprehended by parties destitute of workes at least of sincere resolution to walke in obedience Nor doth faith alone apprehend the truth or deriue the benefit of diuine promises to our selues but by it alone though accompanied with all other sanctifying graces and attended with the whole traine of good workes wee expect and pray the promises may be fulfilled not for our sakes or for any righteousnesse wee haue in vs or can hope for in this Life but only for the merit of Christ by his sole mediation and intercession In briefe the faith which iustifieth is operatiue attended with good workes of all sorts accompanied with all graces of the the Spirit but we liue by it as it vnites vs to the Lord of life yea by it alone not by it and other parts of grace in as much as by it wee trust in Gods mercies offered in Christ wholly relying on them not partly on them and partly on our workes or righteousnesse CHAP. V. Of the generall obiect or matter of Faith Iustifying §. 1. What doctrines are called matters of Faith § 1. MAtter 's of faith strictly and properly those are called which pertaine to the nature and essence of faith first and by themselues as are the points of faith contained in the Gospell the ignorance whereof is damnable and the deniall hereticall But in a more large acceptation all truth reuealed by God in his holy Word is a matter of faith and to bee belieued as God hath reuealed it Hence is that rule of Diuines There are many integrall parts in the Word of God which are said to bee of the word of faith but not propeâ—ly a matter of faith For there are many historicall domesticall and particular matters set downe for example not properly for faith which wee belieue not because they pertaine to sauing faith but for that they appertaine to the Word written by the Spirit of God And not much vnlike hereunto is that distinion that some things are necessarie to bee belieued to saluation by themselues and the authoritie of the Scriptures as the substantiall points of faith and manners others for the authoritie of the Scripture only as those which are not so necessarie and some neither by themselues nor the authoritie of the Scripture as are things in themselues indifferent so long as by circumstance they bee not repugnant to faith truâ—th loue and edification § 2. Iustifying faith is considered §. 2. Iustifying faith is two wayes considered either according to it most eminent effect which is to iustifie or according to it full and adequate act For that faith which iustifieth doth imbrace the Commandements belieue the threatnings looke to all the promises of God made in Iesus Christ concerning this life or the life to come and receiue the good things promised it sustaineth in aduersities worketh by loue as an instrument conioyned with it guideth all our actions and giueth firme assent vnto euery article of faith and euery part of diuine truth but as it iustifieth it is conuersant about Christ obeying to death that we may find righteousnesse and forgiâ—enesse of sinnes to life in him or it cleaueth vnâ—o Gods mercies manifested in that eteâ—nall sacrifice alwayes breathing out life to men renouncing all trust and confidence euen in such graces as we haue receiued from God The trueth mercie fidelitie and power of God
iâ— wee giue our selues to the prosequution of some good works because we receiue and embrace the word which coÌ„mandeth them then shall we giue our selues to the performance of euery good work which the same word doth call for at ou hands If wee doe this or that good worke coÌ„manded because it is sutable to our disposition passing ouer others that bee crosse thereunto wee obey not the Lord but please our selues The Word of God doth worke effectually as it is embracâ—d and the consideration of what Christ hath done for vs will bring forâ—h in vs the same minde that was in him a minde to doe his Fathers will in euery point alike sincerely but with greater intentions feruour and chearefulnesse as the weightinesse of the dutie or opportunitie and season shall require For true faith assenteth to euery diuine truth as certaine and infallible cleaueth to euery promise and commandement alike sincerely and vnfainedly sticketh fastest to them that bee of greatest worth and necessitie or vpon speciall occasion may most tend to the glorie of God the comfort of the soule and good of our brethren and so teacheth the affections to rise and fall swell and asswage whether in admiration or detestation in embracing or loathing and to put themselues forth in practice according to the different excellencie or indignitie goodnesse or vilenes of obiects presented to them It teacheth vs absolutely and intirely to submit our wils vnto Gods will to affect whatsoeuer hee approues to hate whatsoeuer he disallowes to loue that best which his Word assureth vs to be most excellent and deare to him and to detest that most which is most odious and abominable in his sight though otherwise pleasant to our naturall disposition or not so distastfull as many other matters would be did we take care for the flesh to fulfill the lusts thereof Indeed the faithfull soule may find it selfe more prone to one sinne then another and more dull to some good duties then other by reason of naturall inclination state of life custome or some other occasion but if right comparison be made faith inciteth to hate all sinne and to affect all duties of holinesse one as well as another A man sick of diuers diseases but one predominant may be cured of it as much as of any of the rest and yet be more troubled with the remainders of it because it had deepest root and greatest head and so euery member of corruption may be truely mortified and yet the stronger passions before though in proportionable degree tamed and brought into subiection as much as the rest may be the most troublesome which the faithfull doe ackowledge bewaile and endeuour to redresse keeping them vnder with greatest care and striuing against them with all earnestnes This fight against corruption is constantly mainâ—ained by faith and constantly it cleaueth to the word of grace as much better then all carnall or worldly allurements whereby we might be drawne aside into sinne and so it bringeth forth constant obedience to the will of God The good ground are they which with an honest and good heart hauing heard the word keepâ— it and bring forth fruite with patience Luk. 8.15 CHAP. VI. Of the Speciall obiect of Iustifying Faith § 1. FAith seeketh not life and saluation in the threatnings §. 1. The Speciall obiect of Iustifying faith prohibitions or commaundements though it worke by loue and earnestly contend against corruption but acknowledging its imperfection in working 2. Cor. 5.19 Rom. 15.25.26 Rom. 10.8 and 1 17. and renouncing all confidence in workes or in our selues it resteth vpon the promises of mercie in Iesus Christ or word of reconciliation which is called the word of faith The more firme and liuely our faith is the more sincerely it worketh the better wee discerne and vnfainedly acknowledge our imperfections and disclaime all affyance in our owne righteousnesse and the more faithfully we renounce all confidence in our workes the more earnestly wee seeke for saluation only by Christ Faith resteth vpon Christ as Mediatour or as God and Man obeying to the cursed of of the crosse that from the grace o God weâ— might obtaine pardon of sinne and be accepted as righteous vnto life For this wee are alway s â—o haue in Minde that Christ is the obiect of fai h not abstractly and nakedly considered but Christ with his benefits Christ lifted vp as the brason serpent Christ set forth as a propitiatorie sacrifice for our sinnes Christ as our redeemer from sinne and death Christ as he is set forth to the belieuer and thus to receiue Christ and belieue on him is to belieue and receiue in him ransome from sinne and death Mark 1.15 Act. 20.24 Luk. 24.47 1. Pet. 1.21 2. Cor 5.19.20 Psal 32 5. and 51.1.2 and 103.3 Dan. 9 17. Hos 14.3 and 2.19.20 Luk. 1.71 and 18.19 Act. 15.11 Christ and his Apostles testifie that this is specially to bee preâ—â—hed viz remission of sinnes in and through Iesus Christ This the faith of all the Sainâ—s through it haue respected euery part of the word hath in speciall manner respected craued embraced But that which is specially to be preached and belieued that which the faith of all the Saints hath alwayes in speciall manner respected desired craued and obtained that is the speciall obiect of Iustifying faith If at any time wee read a Gen. 15.6 that the beliefe of a temporarie promise was accounted for righteousnesse it is because it doth in belieuing the thing temporall apprehend him b Gal. 3.8.16 in whom all the promises are yea and Amen who is at least the remoued obiect of iustifying faith in euery thing it apprehendeth Thus Abraham belieuing the promise of seed did apprehend that blessed seed which had from the beginning beene promised Iohn 8.56 and saw his day Neither did he looke at the power of God but to sustaine his beliefe of a seed before promised against the temptations wherewith he w s exercised Expresse mention of the speciall mercy of God we finde not in the sermons of the Apostles but it doth euidently follow of those things which are preached by them For remission d Ps 103.3.13 and 130.3.4 Mic. 7.19 Titus 3 5. of sinnes doth presuppose the mercie of God and the speciall subiect of their preahing e Act. 2.38 and 4 1â— and 10.43 and 1â— 39. and 8.37 is remission of sinnes by and for the death and resurrection of Iesus Christ That which first pricketh and spurreth the soule to Christ that giueth vs to vnderstand what the soule principally reacheth at and receiueth in Christ But sinne and death vrge the soule for mercy and life to bee obtained pricke and spurre the soule to goe forth of it selfe and receiue Christ and rest vpon him as he is offered in the Gospell Popish obiections answered Therefore it principally layeth hold on the free promise of mercie couering sinne and deliuering from death The confession of
The conclusion is The Word of God is the generall obiect of Iustifying f ith the speciall promises of mercie and forgiuenesse in Christ Iesus is the speciall obiect of faith as it iustifieth § 3. This beliefe in the rich mercie of God frameth the Image of God in our hearts §. 3. Faith in Gods special mercy frameth his Image in the Heart and imprinteth the vertues of Christs death vpon the soule as by application the seale doth set it stampe vpon the waxe A man cannot walke in the Sunne but he must beare it hue no more can he belieue in the grace and mercie of God to the pardon of his offences but he must beare the Image of Gods mercie vpon his soule And so faith in Christ doth incite to the vniforme studious practice of pietie towards God who of his gracious free vndeserued loue and mercie is pleased to repute Belieuers as his Sonnes by adoption and compasse them with his fauours and of mercie kindnesse long-suffering forbearance forgiuenesse towards men looking to God for it patterne whom it must and ought to follow The Belieuer cannot put on Christ as a Iustifier but he must put on the bowels of mercies kindnesse humblenesse of minde meeknesse long-suffering forbearance c. and the closer he putteth on Christ vnto righteousnesse the moâ—e quicke and operatiue bee these graces of thâ— Spirit more liuely the operations theÌ„selues that issue from theÌ„ as quickned animated by that faith CHAP. VII Iustifying faith is a particular and certaine confidence resting vpon the mercie of God in Christ for pardon and forgiuenesse not an assured perswasion that our sinnes be alreadie pardon d and forgiuen §. 1. Iustifyi g f i th is a particular and certaine confidence § 1 IVst fying faith doth not onely belieue the promise of mercie in generall as that there is foâ—giuenes for them that lay hold vpon it but it relieth vpon the promise for our owne particular and dâ—pends wholly thereupon looking after no other helpe For trust or confidence importeth the application of some good to him that trusteth and so he that casteth himselfe vpon the promises of mercie drawes neere vnto Christ throwes himselfe into his armes and graspes about him with all his might Looke how the poore Infant affrighted with the apprehension of some danger clinges close to the parent for succour and defence or a man in danger of drowning layes hold vpon some willow that growes vpon the bank and hangs thereon for safetie so doth the soule pursued by the terrours of the Law and affrighted with the vgly sight of sinne flie with speed vnto Iesus Christ as hee is held forth in the Gospell hang vpon him and to die for it will neuer loose his hold For in him it apprehends plentifull redemption and out of him it knowes no succour is to be â—ound In this sence faith applyeth the promise of grace to a mans selfe in particular that is it particularly relieth vpon the grace of God in Iesus Chrâ—st to obtaine pardon and forgiuenesse Numb 21.9 Iohn 3.14 15. Euen as they that were stung with the fierie Serpents did come and looke to the brazen Serpent belieuing to find the healing of those deadly stings that were fastened in them Thus a soule stung with sin and feare of damnation commeth by faith to Christ relying on him trusting to finde in and through him cure of those deadly euils wherewith it is wounded If a Prince should offer a generall pardon to Rebels causing it to be proclaimed that if they would lay downe armes submit themselues and flie to his mercie they should be receiued to fauour and wee should see many heereupon cast downe their weapons and sue for mercy would wee not presently know that they belieued the promise that they should bee pardoned So when Christ saith to sinners come vnto mee or belieue on mee and I will ease you what faith thinke we haue sinners who resort vnto him Is it not a beliefe that he will according to his word deliuer them from sinne and death and restore them to life eternall If there bee a particular word or that which is equiualent then there is a particular faith But there is a particular word or that which is equiualent For the thirstie and barren soule that is stung with the terrours of the Law they that labour are heauie laden Math. 11.28 Esay 55.1 2. 1. Iohn 3.24 Iohn 3.16.36 Acts 10.43 13.39 Rom. 10.9 10. are inuited to come vnto Ch ist and exhorted intreated perswaded commanded to belieue the promise is Whosoeuer belieueth in him shall not perish but haue euerlasting life which is as much as Thomas thou art burdened and doest labour thou art wearie and thirstie come thou vnto mee behold I inuite belieue thou for vnto thee doe I reach forth the promise of mercie receiue it and thou shalt â—iue Foâ— the particulars are euer in their generals How can we proue Gal. 3.10 that Iohn or Iames are by nature vnder wrath and the curse otherwise it cannot be proued then thus Cursed is euery one that continueth not in all things that are wâ—itten in the booke of the Law to doe them How can we proue that Thomas or Peter are bound to loue the Lord and to abstaine from murther fornication theft but because it is said to all men Thou shalt loue the Lord Thou shalt not steale Deut 6.5 Iohn 7.37 c. And thus it is said to all Let euery one that is a thirst come vnto me and drinke Belieue in the Lord Iesus Acts 16 31. and thou shalt be saued whence euery thirstie and burdened soule may conclude I ought to bâ—lieue God calleth and commandeth me to belieue he hath giuen me his promise and offers mercie and belieuing I shall be saued The faith of true Belieuers goeth further then the faith of Deuils can doe But thâ—y may and doe belieue or know that Christ died in generall for sinners and that they shall be saued who belieue in him If Iustifying faith haue not in it some particular confidence then it is not opposed to despaire so as to expell it For things that will not endure the one the other most haue contrarietie as fire and water if the one doe not fight and driue forth the other then may they dwell together But true faith and vtter desperation cannot stand together Iames 1.6 Math. 6.30 1â— 31 Rom. 4.20 Heb. 10 2â— but doe expell each other Moreouer true faith in Christ doth breed confidence and boldnesse according to that Let vs enter with confidence and boldnesse through faith on him True faith therefore hath in it particular confidence in the grace of God For as nothing can make hot which hâ—th not heate in it selfe â—o can nothing make confident which after some manner hath not confidence in it To a Math. 1.20 2.20 John 17.8 receiue is to take in particular to a mans selfe or
faith there can bee no want of any thing that is good For how can hee lacke any good thing who hath God for his Father Christ his Sauiour the holy Ghost his sealer and Comforter the Angels to guard him Heauen his inheritance who hath Gods faithfull promise confirmed by oath and seale to secure him of all things needfull grace comfort and earthly blessings and is kept by the power of God vnto saluation But here it must be obserued that faith doth not effect and performe these things by any excellencie force or efficacie of it owne aboue other graces but in respect of the office wherunto it is assigned in the Couenant of grace It is a cause onely Instrumentall and that is atributed vnto it which the principall cause worketh Faith iustifies not as an act or qualitie but as it receiueth Christ faith purifieth not the heart of it selfe but as it is the instrument whereby the Spirit worketh Whatsoeuer wee are made by faith wee are made it in Christ and whatsoeuer faith makes to bee ours it is also in Christ Therefore faith maketh not God to be our God but in Christ nor vs the children of God but in Christ And whatsoeuer grace is wrought in the heart of any man it is the gift of God the worke of the holy Ghost but faith is the Instrument whereby the Spirit doth more renue and purifie our hearts § 2. Of all creatures onely Man is capable of sauing or iustifying faith §. 2. Of all creatures Man only is capable of Iustifying faith 2. Pet. â— 4 not the blessed Angels who neuer sinned nor the euill Angels who are shut vp in prison and reserued in chaines of darkenes against the day of iudgement The Saints in glory doe inioy immediate fellowship and communion with God by sight and know most perfectly and most clearely But the light of Iustifying faith which doth include and suppose imperfection pertaineth to this life in which we are in the way mouing to perfection not yet attained vnto perfect vision So that faith is proper vnto Man in this life in his iourney towards his perfect home and eternall habitation but all men are not enriched with this precious gift of mercie and rare iewell of grace All men haue not faith 2. Thes 3. â— Isay 53.1 Math. 11.25 and 13.11 Rom. 9.18 Many are not so much as outwardly called the sound of the Gospell hath not reached vnto them many that heare vnderstand not bee not affected with the truth and in some that be affected the word takes not kind rooting is not well planted Those to whom faith is giuen are described to be the elect of God the sheepe of Christ Tit. 1 1. Act. 13.48 Rom. 11.5 Ioh. 10.11.15.26 Ioh. 6.37.39 and 20.39 and 17.2.6 Math. 1.21 and 18.11 and to bee giuen of the Father vnto Christ The subiect of Iustifying faith is man a sinnner called according to the purpose of God acknowledging his offences and hungring and thiâ—sting after mercie For none but a sinner can acknowledge Christ for his Sauiour for he is the Sauiour of sinners Faith in Christ for remission of sinnes is necessarie for them onely who haue offended but euery sinner cannot belieue euery one is not fit to receiue the promise of mercy The enimies of the Gospell of Christ worldings hypocriâ—es and all in whom sinne raigneth can haue no true faith in Christ Math. 11.28 Mark 1.15 hee onely is fit to embrace mercy who knoweth that hee is lost in himselfe and vnsatiably desires to be eased of the heauie burden of his sinnes Faith is not a worke naturall but supernaturall not of nature but of grace not of the power of our free-will but of the efficacie of Gods Spirit whereby we answere to the effectuall call of God and come vnto him that we might be pertakers of life eternall 1. Iohn 5.1 Iohn 1.12.13 Ioh 6 44. The infusion of faith is necessarily precedent to the act of faith and grace to belieue is giuen before we lay hold vpon Christ And if sauing-effectuall calling bee precedent to faith the subiect of liuing faith is man sauingly called according to the purpose of Gods will We can teach no faith to saluation but according to the rule of Christ Repent and belieue the Gospell Mar. â— 15. Luk. 24.47 Act. 2.37.38 no remission of sins but according to the like rule But faith seeketh and receiueth pardon as it is profered in the word of grace Repentance is necessarie to the pardon of sinne as a condition without which it cannot bee obtained Luk. 13.3 1. Ioh. 1.9 Act. 11.18 not as a cause why it is giuen If mercie should bee vouchsafed to all indifferently the grace of God should be a boulster to Mans sinne there should bee no difference betwixt the iust and vniust the penâ—tent and obstinate Faith comes to Christ as an humble penitent petitioner suing to the throne of grace for what is promised in the Gospell and it receiueth according to the promise of mercie §. 3. Faith resideth both in Minde and Will § 3. The seate of faith is the heart but the heart contrite humbled bewailing sinne denying it selfe and affected with desire of remission of sinnes As the stomake is the place in which meate is receiued but it is necessarie it bee desirous of meate So the heart is the place where remission of sinnes is receiued and felt but it must be an heart desirous of and thirsting after pardon With the heart man belieueth Rom. 10.10 Act. 8.37 2. Pet. 1.19 Act. 16.14 If the Mind and will bee two distinct faculties of the soule then iustifying faith is resident in both but principally in the will because it assenteth to diuine reuelation as true and embraceth the promises as much better then any contrarie good the world the Diuell or flesh can present to preuent our choice of what it prescribeth for our sauing health For the word of promise not onely containing truth but offering good vnto vs cannot fully be receiued with the vnderstanding but the will also must moue towards it And so faith is not onely a knowledge or assent in the Minde but a godly affection in the will which doth goe to embrace rest vpon Christ or the grace offered in Christ Therefore the nature of faith is described by words which signifie to stay and rolle our selues vpon God to lâ—ane on him as one would leane vpon a staffe and by faith we come vnto Christ and receiue him It is obiected that one and the same vertue or grace cannot be in distinct powers and faculties of the soule Bellar. de Iustif l 1. cap. 6. Haec Philosophia nor faith in distinct subiects Whereunto seuerall answers are made First that one and the same thing in diuers respects may be referred to diuers subiects as these subiects are not altogether seperated but conioyned amongst themselues So friend-ship is one morall vertue and yet in the Minde and
better stature Who would bee poore that might be rich weake that might be strong who would liue in feare and care that might rest confident and secure who would walke pensiuely that might continually reioyce and triumph A weake faith will bring to saluation but a strong faith is necessarie for a Christian that he may ouercome with more ease fight more manfully endure with patience and obey with chearefulnesse The least dramme of faith is more precious then gold that perisheth better then the whole world who that knoweth the price and value of such a iewell would not desire and labour to be furnished with it and grow rich therein In earthly things a full estate pleaseth best in heauenly shall we be coÌ„tented to lâ—ue from hand to mouth scarce that when we might with better allowance enioy plentie All liuing things haue an appetite to seeke and desire nourishment for increase vnto perfect stature in their kind Herbs and plants sucke iuyce out of the earth new borne babes d sire the mother breast All true graces are still growing from a gram of Mustard seed to a great tree Math. 13.31 32 liuely faith doth couet increase from feeble state to better growth from growth to strength from strength to full assurance § 9. Faith somewhat growne is §. 9. 2. Somewhat growne when the Belieuer is better acquainted with the doctrine of saluation giueth more full absolute and vnlimited assent to the word of truth then formerly cleaueth faster to the promises of mercie in Iesus Christ is better stablished in the practice of godlinesse and hath obtained some setled boldnesse and confidence at sometimes though he be still ignorant of many priuiledges which he might enioy and of which he might be assured by the grace bountie of the Lord yea through weaknesse hee wauereth often doubteth againe and againe and becommeth like the smoking flaxe Strong faith excelleth the former in certaine knowledge firme and full assent 3. Strong liuely confidence ioyned with sincere purpose and resolution of vnpartiall and constant obedience This Belieuer is better acquainted with the promises of God temporall and spirituall to relie vpon them hee can wrestle earnestly in prayer is not discouraged if for a time his suite be denied will take no repulse is couragious in dangers sharpened by difficulties Math. 15.28 8.10 walketh on constantly in a godly course and holdeth the confident assurance of his saluation more strongly and hath it more vsually then the two former But yet he hath not learned in euery state and thing so to liue by faith but that he is often shaken and troubled with his corruptions distracted with cares and kept vnder with other incumbrances more then hee need if hee had attained to that measure of faith which in this life many haue obtained by the gift of God 4. Full assurance Coloss 2.2 Rom. 15.14 Coloss 1.23 Rom. 4.20 Psal 27.1.23.4 Iob 13.15 Ester 4.14 Full assurance is when the Belieuer hath obtained full assurance of vnderstanding in the mistery of God and of the Father and of Christ and assuredly belieueth in Christ for saluation and is certainly perswaded that all other promises spirituall and temporall do belong vnto and shall bee made good vnto him in due season though in appearance all things goe cleane contrarie and readily followeth the Lords commandement though repugnant to flesh and bloud crosse to carnall reason contrarie to earthly pleasure and contentment Gotten by degrees 2. Cor. 1.7 This degree of faith is not gotten at once nor at first ordinarily but by degrees after good time and continuance in the vse of the meanes after many experiences of Gods loue and fauour after manifold tryals and combates and the long continued practice of holines many neuer attaine vnto it in this life but it is the dutie of euery Christian to labour after good establishment and full assurance in the faith Heb. 6.11 Col. 2.11 The Benefits of full assurance As faith is more excellent so are the fruits that issue from it The stronger our faith the more firme and close is our vnion with Christ A weake belieuer is as truely knit to Christ as the strong but not so neerely and fast The increase of faith makes our Communion with Christ more sweete and comfortable then before For the more stedfastly we belieue the clearer apprehension haue we of the remission of all our sinnes the more vertue and strength draw we from Christ to kill and crucifie our corruptions the greater is our peace and ioy in the sence of Gods speciall fauour and the more constantly inioyed with an increase thereof Rom. 15.13 1. Ioh. 1. â— Rom. 5 1.2.3 Heb. 10 22. Eph. 3.12 Mat. 15.28 and 9.29 and 8.13 Fulnesse of faith breeds fulnesse of peace and ioy which passeth vnderstanding The firmer our faith the more free is our accesse with boldnesse and confidence to the throne of grace the more feruently and confidently can wee pray Abba Father the better successe doe wee finde in prayer and the more quietly doe wee waite till the vision come for it will come and will not lie Assurance of faith doth inable with more ease to ouercome the world to contemne the pleasures of sinne to possesse the soule in patience in hard and â—sore pressures to curbe vnruly passions to tread Satan vnder feete to breake through all worldly difficulties and to runne with chereafulnes the race that is set before vs. The weake belieuer creepes forward in the way to Heauen but it is with much difficultie He hath much adoe with himselfe hee is perplexed with feares frightned with troubles discouraged with want of meanes he is wearie feeble panteth maketh many a stand and slippeth now and then It is farre better with him who is setled stablished and rooted in the knowledge and loue of the truth and is assured of Gods mercie hath interest in all the promises of grace and can lay actuall claime vnto them For hee contemneth the temptations of multitudes customes examples he dispiseth the offers of profits pleasures honours esteeming it greater riches to suffer affliction with the people of God then to enioy the pleasures of sinne As for reproch trouble persecution he shrinkes not at them for his heart is fixed and trusteth in the Lord. Heb. 12 2. Act. 20.24 Psal 27.3 Act. 7.59 In dangers he is confident through meanes of deliuerance appeare not because he seeth in God who is inuisible and resteth vpon his faithfull promise that cannot deceiue His affections are seasoned his heart is in Heauen his loue to God is stronger then death life it selfe is not deare vnto him that he may finish his course with ioy If at any time hee tread awry through ouer-sight or infirmitie the stronger is his faith the sooner doth he arise againe renue his repentance and embrace the promises of mercie afresh Let vs then striue to attaine vnto the best measure of faith and to
God and put Satan to flight Neither let them after this bee still obiecting that they feele small strength of faith and hope for thereby the enemie may take encouragement to their disaduantage when feare setteth open the heart to his malitious temptations and binds the hands of the distressed that he cannot resist but let them stirre vp their courage and resolution to waite vpon the Lord not listening any more to their strong but deceitfull feare And what though they feele not that sweetnesse wh ch sometimes they felt will they therefore iudge their state to bee naught What sweetnesse can the soule taste when it is ouer-whelmed with feares perplexed with temptations troubled with doubts Physicke is vnpleasant and bitter to the taste Temptation should not be temptation if it did not affect If the soule bee now sicke and tasteth not the sweet meates of consolation which it was wont as the bodie which is in a course of Physicke will they iudge themselues to be starke dead or in a condition irrecouerable Wee haue experience how diuers times the disease preuaileth ouer the sicke person that actions faile and faculties seeme quite to bee spent neither hand nor foot is able to doe their dutie the eye is dimme the hearing dull the taste altered and the tongue distasteth all things euen of most pleasant rellish and the weake and feeble patient seemeth to attend the time of dissolution when yet notwithstanding there remayneth a secret power of nature and a forcible sparke of life that ouer-commeth all these infirmities and consumeth them like drosse and rendreth to the body a greater puritie and firmenesse of health then before the sicknesse it did enioy Euen so it is in this spirituall estate the soule is sicke and not dead faith is assailed but not ouercome and if in patience the finâ—shing of this secret worke which passeth all conceit and capacitie of man bee attended these bu ning feauers of temptations shall appeare to bee flaked and cooled by the mercie and grace of Christ and that sparke of faith which now lieth hid and ouer-whelmed with heapes of temptations to breake forth againe And as nature after a perfect crise dischargeth herselfe to the recouery of former health so shall all doubts and feares and terrours be remoued and strength of faith restored with such supply as it shall bee able to make euident proofe what secret vertue lay hid and yet not idle in all this vncomfortable plight Againe as in outward sences we see sometimes and feele and heare when wee doe not perceiue it so we may also haue faith and not alwayes haue the sensible perceiuing thereof Yea such as most hunger and thirst after righteousnesse and are poore in spirit and broken in heart as they doubt and feare in euery action lest God bee dishonoured by their conuersation so are they iealous of their precious faith lest it bee not in such measure as they desire or in truth be none at all wherein they may easily bee deceiued first in the discerning then in the measure and portion For when the inward feeling thereof doth not answere their desire and the actions proceeding there-from doe not satisfie their thirst of righteousnesse whereby reliefe may rise to the nourishment of faith and the satisfying of that holy appetite they are discouraged and intangled with spirituall cares from which a more aduiced consideration agreeable to Gods Word might easily deliuer them And touching the portion it is a fault to measure the excellencie of faith and power thereof partly by quantitie and vnseasonable fruits so to call them and not by vertue kind plantation soueraignetie and seasonable fruit which errour in temptation the distressed are apt to runne into and so to trouble themselues without cause Men looke not that Corne should spring in haruest or be ripe in spring that trees should bud or beare fruit in winter because it â—s not the season for such things Neither ought wee to expect such strength of memorie and liuely operatiue actions of grace in age sicknesse great sorrowes and temptations as at other times in young yeares free from such assaults The fruits of faith fit for the season may bee discerned by them that can rightly iudge when sweet refreshings forme ly enioyed bee lacking The effects of faith in great temptations and cloudie seasons are to looke vp for helpe sigh groane complaine to God prize his fauour draw nigh vnto him and cast himselfe vpon God though hee seeme to be angry at this time faith is incumbred with many strong feares wherewith it is burdened against which it laboureth ouer which it doth not easily nor speedily preuaile Ioy peace sweet refreshing and sensible tasting of Gods mercie be the fruits of well growne faith in the times of victorie and freedome Those Summer fruits are not to bee gathered in the depth of winter It is an errour to measure the truth of grace in age by the effects proper to youth or the soundnesse of faith in temptation by the effects peculiar to the dayes of triumph Neither are we to account the nature of any thing according to our sence or the shew it maketh For then should the most fruitfull tree in winter bee taken for barren and the lustie soyle for drie and vnfruitfull whilest it is shut vp with the hard frost But reason being guided by the Word of God must lead vs rightly to iudge of the presence and life of faith in our soules which being the shield in this our spirituall warfare endureth much battering and many brunts and receiueth the fore-front of the battaile and oftentimes fareth as if it were pierced through and worne vnfit for battaile yet is it indeed of nature inuincible and repelleth whatsoeuer engine the enemy inforceth against vs and standeth firme rooted whatsoeuer storme Satan raiseth for the displacing thereof How then are the distressed to behaue themselues in this temptation when both the sence of faith is dulled in them and the fruits minister discontentment They must rightly consider what bee the winter fruits of faith and not expect such things in themselues as agree not to that season and withall remember that the gifts and mercy of God is wâ—thout repentance and so take courage vnto themselues confidently to cast their soules vpon the mercie of the Lord in Iesus Christ For as hee knew them when they were strangers from him and loued them when they hated him and had nothing which might prouoke his mercy but sinne and misery so is his goodnesse continued still vpon them for his owne sake and not at all for their deseruing And though they feele their abilitie weake the enemy strong their strength tired and cleane worne their corruption vpon the point to pâ—euaile the fruits and branches of faith thâ—ough these stormy tempests nipped and shaken yet the sap of faith shall neuer be dried vp in the root neither can any winde of Satan so blast that the immortall seed bee at any time quite withered
of vnbeliefe Hee that reioyceth in Christ Iesus can haue no confidence in the flesh As wee grow downe denying our wisdome and all strength wee can make so doth faith in our great God grow vp as we swell or be puffed vp in conceit of our wisdome or strength so doth faith languish or decay So much as the heart stayeth vpon the creature it is by sinne with-drawne from the Creator But my heart is much poysoned with selfe-sufficiencie I feele my selfe apt to leane vpon mine owne deuices to presume vpon mine owne strength and so wickedly to depart from God If meanes be at hand I grow secure forgetting that further then God doth send forth his Word they can doe nothing If meanes be wanting I faint or at least am greatly distracted not remembring that it is all one with God to saue with many as with few with small or no meanes as great If I enioy the things I would I thinke much vpon the meanes ascribe little to Gods blessing my affections do worke more liuely on this or that which fell out as men speake more luckily then on the blessing of God which is all in all In any matter of weight concerning liueli-hood or state I am readie to plod what friends I can make what meanes be present what likelihoods of good successe and here I rest not seeking to the Lord Prou. 29.26 though all iudgement come from him But if this or that requisite in my iudgement cannot bee obtained though I be neuer so diligent seeke neuer so earnestly still I distrust and suspect the euent saying in heart that it cannot proue well And when my desire is accomplished the meanes are still in mine eye I thinke my selfe indebted to such or such friends neuer able to requite their kindnesse when the chiefe cause vpon whom all things depend is much forgotten not affectionately remembred In trials I am very tottering and like a poore creeple who leaneth vpon his crutches easily brought to the ground when sensible helpes are taken away Carnall delights Math. 6.30 Iohn 12.43 5.44 Math. 14 31. Marke 8.16 17. couetousnesse loue of praise double diligence about eâ—rthly things and excessiue care these are euill accidents of this disease Did we possesse the spiâ—ituall comforts of the Word the heart could neither couet nor take pleasure in the transitorie things of this life Did wee assuredly belieue that our Heauenly Father will prouide for vs wee would not disquiet our selues with troublesome thoughts about liuing maintenance and successe of our labours But ah how is my heart taken vp with distracting cares drawne away with carnall pleasures and aspiring desires after great things If riches increase I reioyâ—e in them if troubles or crosses come on my head is wholly busied about them I can keepe no measure in casting discoursing contriuing how things will goe The many thoughts that I spend about these things to no purpose vpon no occasion doe more then sufficiently conuince the earthly distemper of my heart Partiall obedience indulgence to any sinne sleightinesse in the performance of holy duties and rashnesse in the vndertaking of ordinary workes without feare reuerence and due consideration is the euill fruit of vnbeliefe For the strength of faith is vniforme it fighteth against all sinne feedeth vpon the dainties that God hath prepared for them that loue him and teacheth in naturall and ciuill actions to hold Christ that his Spirit may guide vs in the doing of them But I haue beene too fauourable to boisterous passions euill lusts vaine rouings idle speeches neglect of holy duties I haue prayed without intention feruencie or care to speed I haue heard the Word but not attended vnto it with diligence not laboured to get it into possession nor to be changed into the nature of it I haue feasted without feare or thankfulnesse I haue laid me downe to sleepe and risen againe not minding the promise of God who giueth sleepe to his beloued not acknowledging him who is my liâ—e and the length of my dayes nor fearing the grin that is set for me in euery creature and businesse of this life What shall I say O Lord I haue sinned against thy goodnesse power mercy and truth against the Mediation and bloud of Christ 1. Iohn 5.10 He that beliâ—ues not in God â—akes him a liar then which what can be more reprochfull Hee that resteth not vpon Christ maketh his bloud of none effect then which what is more abominable To feare the threats of Man to rest on his Word to obey his Commandements when the will and pleasure of God is neglected what is this but to rob Goâ— oâ— his glory and set vp Man in his roome or steed If a great Man should threaten would I not bee carefull to decline his wrath Shall my God threaten and I be secure and carelesse If I haue a mans word or bond that is of worth I write vpon the matter as if I had it Shall I not ioyfully rest in the word seale and oath of my God If a Man of great place should bee asked a pawne and not credited on his word he would take it in euill part what a shame is it that I should not beliâ—ue God further then I haue his caution The seruants of Noblemen attend on their Lords pleasure at an Inch come at their call goe at their command doe euery thing exactly that is giuen them in charge What wretchednesse is this in me that I haue obâ—yed the Lord by the halues beene sleightie in his worshâ—p most negligent where all diligence is no more then duty most praise-worthy As I haue dishonoured God Titus 1.15 Esay 7.9 Numb 20.12 Luke 1.20 so I haue hurt mine owne soule If it were not for vnbeliefe nothing could harme mee this doth all the mischiefe for it reiecteth the medicines which taken would cure all maladies and pulleth off Gods pla sters which lying on would salue our miseries it defileth our best workes doubleth the bitternesse of crosses pulleth downe many iudgements vpon vs disinableth in the combate against Satan is the nurse of spirituall idlenesse and hindreth the sweetnesse of all holy duties It were iust with thee Deare Father to cast mee off for euer and giue me ouer to the vanitie of mine vnbelieuing heart I haue drawne backe from thee by infidelitie Heb. 10.38 39. cleauing to the lusts of the flesh and allurements of the World trusting in vaine deuices and thou mightst iustly forsake me vtterly for this mine hypocriticall starting aside from thy testimonies O Lord I am not more full of infidelitie by nature then of my selfe vnable to remoue it vnto thee therefore doe I lift vp my soule O tame in mee the fiercenesse of infidelitie and teach mee to belieue as thou hast commanded then shall I cleaue vnto thee inseperably waite confidently on thy saluation and serue thee chearefully as long as I liue Thus are we to find out and make infidelitie odious Secondly We must
labour to see the necessitie and preciousnesse of faith 2. See the necessitie and pretiousnesse of Faith and these seene will make a man hold hard ere he part with it A man that hath a great charge his whole state about him will as soone lose his life as part with his treasure Of what excellencie and vse is this grâ—ce of faith which subdueth passions ouercommeth allurements maketh things impossible to the flesh easie and delightsome inableth to stand fast when we are buffeted by Satan lifteth vp the head amidst all the surges of temptation remayneth victorious in all combats raiseth vs vp when we are laid along and our weapons beaten on our Heads knitteth the heart fast to the heauenly Commandements quickeneth in deadnesse and holdeth the Lord fast when he leadeth vs into the darke Who would not preferre the custodie and increase of such a grace before life it selfe Nay what is our life without it If faith liue in vs we liue blessedly whatsoeuer misery compasse vs about if faith decay we die if it die we perish Thirdly We mâ—st consider whom we trust and meditate on the grounds of faith to wit the grace 3. Meditate on the grounds of Faith power goodnes truth vnchangeablenes of God for this will strengthen beliefe Wee must consider the promises of God that we may see what his good will and pleasure is what a Fatherly care of our welfare hee hath and not only how able but how willing also he is to helpe and succour vâ— what promises he hath made and how faithfull hee is in performaâ—ce for his owne names sake and of free vndeserued loue The Mother of vnbeliefe is ignorance of God his faithfulnesse mercie and power Psal 9.10 Those that know thee will trust in thee This confirmed Paul Abraham Sarah in the faith 2. Tim. 1.12 Heb. 11.11 Rom. 4.21 I know whom I haue beliâ—ued and that hee is able to keepe that I haue committed vnto him vntill that day Hee is faithfull who hath promised and able also to performe The free promises of the Lord are all certaine his Commandements right and good the recompence of reward inestimably to bee valued aboue thousands of gold and siluer Trust therefore in the Lord O my soule and follow hard after him Thou hast his free promise who neuer failed who hath promised more then possibly thou couldst aske or thinke who hath done more for thee then euer he promised who is good and bountifull to the wicked and vngodly thou doest his worke who is able and assuredly will beare thee out there is a Crowne of glory proposed vnto thee aboue all conceit of merit sticke fast vnto his Word and suffer nothing to diuide thee from it Rest vpon his promises though hee seeme to kill thee cleaue vnto his stâ—tutes though the flesh lust the World allure the Deuill tempt by flatteries or threatnings to the contrarie 4. Feeling weaknesse of faith looke on on Christ Fourthly When wee feele our faith weake we must looke vp to Christ the beginner and finisher of faith in vs. A fainting bodie will taste some thing that is cordiall and restoratiue and a fainting soule must baite it selfe with looking to Iesus who is our cordiall and restoratiue 5. Pray for the spirit of faith Fiftly Faith is a grace that is giuen from aboue and commeth downe from the Father of lights vnto whom wee must fly by feruent prayer humbly begging that he would by his Spirit both reueale vnto vs what be those pretious promises which he hath made vnto his people and giue vs wisdome rightly to iudge of them and firmely to receiue them in euery estate and aboue all to moue our hearts so to belieue them that wee may assure our selues of all needfull helpe in due time seeing God alsufficient and faithfull hath promised it and waite vpon him in the way of his Commaundements Mercifull Father it is my sincere desire and vnfained resolution to draw nigh vnto thee and put my trust in thy mercies for euermore But of my selfe I haue no abilitie to stand in faith or to follow hard after thy Commaundements I am full of doubtings when I can see no meanes to put me in hope of helpe and ready to sinke downe in despaire vpon euery small occasion I am readie to stagger and slip aside Take pittie vpon me O Lord for thy mercie sake for I fly vnto thee for helpe Thou hast commanded mee to belieue hold mee by thy right hand that I shrinke not reueale thy promises vnto my vnderstanding giue mee a sound iudgement establish me in the faith more and more vnite my heart close vnto thee that all the darts of the Deuill may fall off not be able to wound my conscience Thou hast giuen me to see my weakenesse in faith and to bewaile it to see the necessitie and excellent vse of faith and to desire it giue me also stedfastly to belieue according to the riches of thy grace that I may glorifie thy name CHAP. II. What it is to liue by faith in particular touching the promises of pardon and forgiuenesse and how to stirre vp our selues thereunto THE vse of faith which is as large as the word of God must be distinguished according to the arts and seuerall branches of it promises What the promisâ—s bee and the kinds thereof Commaundemets threatnings By promises vnderstand all those declarations of Gods will wherein hâ—e signifies in the Gospell what good he will freely bestow And these be either Spirituall or Temporall concerning this life or the life to come of things simply necessarie to saluation or of things good in themselues but not alwayes good for vs all which are receiued possessed and inioyed by faith according as they be promised of God either with or without limitation Amongst spirituall promises absolutely necessarie without which there can be no saluation the first and chiefe is concerning pardon or forgiuenesse of sinnes and Iustification The promise of forgiuenes of sinnes God of his rich grace and mercie in Iesus Christ doth make offer of free and full forgiuenesse of all sinnes to euery burdened thirstie and peniâ—ent soule Isay 55.7 Deut. 30.1.2 1. Reg. 8.35 Let the wicked forsake his way and the vnrighteous man his thoughts and let him returne vnto the Lord and he will haue mercy vpon him and to our God for he will abundantly pardon Ier. 3.12 Returne thou backe-sliding Israel saith the Lord and I will not cause mine anger to fall vpon you for I am mercifull saith the Lord and I will not keepe mine anger for euer I will clense them from all their iniquitie wherby they haue sinned against me and I will pardon all their iniquities whereby they haue sinned and whereby they haue transsgresed against me Ier. 33.8 and 1.34 The promise is free This promise is made of free and vndeserued mercie not for any merit that is or possibly could bee in vs.
I Isay 43.25 and 44.22 euen I am hee that blotteth out thy transgrssions for mine owne sake and wiâ—l not remember thy sinnes I will loue them freely for mine anger is turned away from him Hos 14.4 Who is a God like vnto thee that pardoneth iniquitie and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage Mic. 7.18 hee retaineth not his anger for euer because he delighteth in mercy Heb. 8.12 Ier 31.34 Deut. 21.8 I will be mercifull to their vnrighteousnes and thâ—ir sinnes and their iniquities will I remember no more Bee mercifull O Lord vnto thy people Israel whom thou hast redeemed Numb 14.28 Yet obtained through Christ only Ioh. 1.29 But when we heare of grace we must remember Christ in and through whom God is gratious vnto vs. Christ is the lambe of God which taketh away the sinnes of the world and this great benefit of forgiuenes of siâ—ne is plentifully proclaimed vnto vs miserable sinners in nâ— through him Thus it is written Luk. 24.46.47 and thus it behoued Christ to suffer and to rise againe from the dead the third day and that repentance and Remission of sinnes should be preached among all nations beginniâ—g at Ierusalem Bee it knowen vnto you thâ—refore Act. 13.38 Men and bretheren that through this Man meaning Christ is preached vnto you the forgiuenes of sinnes Now then we are Ambassadors for Christ 2. Cor. 5.10 as though God did beseech you by vs we pray you in Christ steed be yee reconciled to God Hereunto agreeth that inuitation of our Sauiour Come vnto mee all yee that labour and are heauen laden and I will giue you rest This promise of grace is receiued possessed and enioyed by faith alone Math. 11.28 And receiued and possessed by faith but by an operatiue and liuely faith To him giue all the prophets witnesse that through his Name Act. 10.43 Act. 13.39 whosoeuer belieueth in him shall receiue remission of sinnes And by him all that belieue are iustified from all things from which yee could not bee iustified by the Law of Moses Though faith bee accompanied with other graces yet Man liueth by it alone And by it alone Rom. 1.17 Gal 2.16 and 3.11.24 not by it and other parts of grace as ioynt supporters in as much as by it alone he trusts in Gods mercy offered in Christ wholly relying on it not partly on mercy partly on righteousnes inherent We are iustified freely by his grace Rom. 3.24.25.26 though the redemption that is in Iesus Christ whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood to declare his righteousnes for the remission of sinnes that are past The Scripture foreseeing that God would iustifie the Heathen through faith Gal. 3.8 Gen. 12.3 Gen. 15.6 Rom. 4.16 preached before the Gospell vnto Abraham saying In thee shall all nations be blessed And thus the Lord hath ordained for diuers reasons First this promise is of faith that it might be of free grace which cannot stand with the dignity of workes If it bee by grace then is it no more of workes otherwise grace is no more grace Rom. 11.6 But if it be of workes then is it no more grace otherwise worke is no more worke Faith answeres the promise and receiues the pardon of grace as a poore begger vtterly denying all worthinesse in the subiect whereas other graces had they beene assigned to this office would haue challenged something to themselues Secondly it is of faith that it might be stedfast and sure to all the seed why so because the promise is of grace Faith and grace doe sweetly consent mutually vphold each other Faith leaneth vpon grace alone and grace or mercy is promised freely that we might belieue and vouchsafed to him that doth belieue and accept it Without faith therefore the promise doth fall And if the promise of remission of sinnes did depend vpon any worthinesse in vs to receiue it wee should not onely wauer and bee vncertaine but euen vtterly despaire of euer speeding Thirdly that only is the true manner of Iustification which shuts forth all boasting in the dignitie of our workes Ier. 9.23 But faith excludes all boasting in our selues and teacheth vs to glory in the Lord our righteousnesse Where is boasting then it is excluded By what Law Rom. 3.27.28 Of works Nay but by the Law of faith Therefore we conclude that a man is iustified by faith without the deeds of the Law For if Abraham were iustified by workes Rom. 4 1.3 Eph. 2.8.9.10 1. Cor. 1.30 31. he hath whereof to glory but not before God For what saith the Scripture Abraham belieued God and it was counted vnto him for righteousnes As God inuites vs to receiue the promise of pardon offered in the Gospell It s necessary to seeke pardon of sinne by faith so it is necessarie that wee embrace it by a liuely faith For in our selues we be sinfull and cursed no way able to make any satisfaction wher by we might be deliuered and remission which is of grace can be obtained by no other meanes but onely by faith n Iesus Christ To him that worketh not Rom. 4.5.6.7 Psal 32.1 but belieueth on him that iustifieth the vngodly his faith is counted for righteousnesse euen as Dauid also describeth the blessednesse of the Man vnto whom God imputeth righteousnes without workes Saying Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiuen and whose sinnes are couered Gal. 1.16 and 3.22 Blessed is the Man to whom the Lord will not impute sinne Faith goeth directly vnto Christ that by him wee might be Iustified and embraceth the promises of God concerning Iustification which is the maner by which alone God hath ordained to iustifie vs. No man can be heire according to the hope of eternall life vnlesse he be iustified from sinne by the free grace of God Isay 59.2 for sins not blotted out by the free pardon of grace seperate betwixt God and vs and hide his face from vs. Tit. 3.5.7 Not by workes of righteousnesse which wee haue done but according to his mercy hee saued vs c. That being iustified by his grace wee should be made heires according to the hope of eternall glory But no pardon is obtained vnlesse the promise of pardon be receiued by faith Faith in the promises of mercie that wee might be acquitted from sinne and accepted as Iust and righteous doth commend and maintaine the glory of Gods grace intyre and in this respect also it is the more necessary As a penitent malefactor if hee were to pleade his cause before the Prince himselfe would not stand vpon termes of innocencie or present integritie because he had his pardon vnder seale seeing that was giuen him to pleade for mercie not for iustice so the faithfull soule relyeth vpon the free mercie of God and promise of pardon proclaimed indefinitely to all burdened and penitent sinners
and sealed to euery belieuer in particular by the pledges of the Spirit not vpon those sanctified graces which are giuen vnto him that he might be qualified and fitted to plead for grace and mercy The acts of faith about promises of pardon The acts of Faith concerning this promise of forgiuenes be diuers First it generally belieueth the promise true and thereby disceâ—nes that sinne is pardonable through grace Psal 130.4 Luk. 15 18. The knowledge of this that our sinnes may bee pardoned or that there is mercy with the Lord to couer sin is a worke of faith For whatsoeuer cannot be conceiued or found out by sence or reason that is manifested by reuelation and assented vnto or iudged true and certaine by faith or else it remaines as a mysterie vnknowne When the Apostle defines Heb. 11.1 faith to bee the euidence of things not seene doth hee not intimate that things vnseene to sense or naturall reason are discouered and made euident only by faith But that God will pardon iniquitie transgression and sinne is a truth that can neuer bee comprehended by the light of nature flesh and bloud hath not reuealed it vnto vs. Supernaturall truthes which exceed all humane capacitie cannot be discerned or receiued by any power of nature 1. Pet. 1.12 Rom. 16.25.26 Eph. 1.8 9. Isay 40.13 14 But that God will be mercifull to our sinnes is a truth supernaturall hidden from the Angels themselues vntill it was reuealed in the Gospell Who hath knowne the Minde of God or beene acquainted with the mysteries of his wisedome In the dayes of securitie whilest men sleepe in sinne without all sence of euill or knowledge of Gods iustice it is an easie matter to say God is mercifull Christ died for sinners But whence the conscience is awakened with the terrors of Gods wrath and the fearefull sight of sin Gen. 1.13 Math. 27.5 Psal 77.3.7 8. the experience both of wicked men and of the Saints of God can testifie that it is a difficult thing to looke beyond the cloud of iustice and contrarie to the naturall sentence of conscience comninations of the Law and present feeling to belieue that there is forgiuenesse with God Secondly faith stirreth vp earnest desires and longings to be made pertakers of this mercie of God and to bee refreshed with his gracious and free fauour All holy and feruent desires are both kindled nourished by it As our assent to the Diuine and heauenly promises is more or lesse firme certainea bsolute euident so are our desires more or lesse fierie constant vnsatiâ—ble yea in respect of heauenly things vnquenchable As faith languisheth these faint as faith encreaseth these gather strength And no maruell for appetite followeth knowledge Ioh. 4.10 and desire is answereble to that certaine cleare iudgement that we haue of the necessitie and worth value and digniâ—y of the obiect apprehended Now faith discouereth both the necessity and excellencie of the good certainely contained in the word of promise which act of faith is signified by the opening or piercing of the eare and seriously meditateth vpon the singular benefits offered therein so raiseth the heart vncessantly to hunger and thirst after them And these desâ—res will be the greater and more constante the more faith is exercised in the meditation of the goodnesse freenes and certaintie of these promises Many things are neglected which are most pretious only because the value of them lyeth hid or is not apparant or the preiudice of sensible but deceiuable experience doth ouersway No marueile then if the pardon of sinne be neglected though the benefite be probably knowne when it is but sleightly thought vpon superficially looked into custome hauing iniured the Minde by long practice to the pursuite of earthly delights or profits wherewith it is besotted But with the true belieuer it fareth much better for he seeth how happy it should be with him if his sinnes were couered and his soule eased of the burden of them how euer it fare with him in matters of this world and withall he pondereth the truth and faithfulnesse of the promise made of meere grace whereby the heart is stirred vp to desire and long after this blessing aboue all good that can be imagined And yet such is our corruptioÌ„ we must oft breathe our selues in the meditation of these things or else we shall find our esteeme of pardon to decay and our desire to grow cold and dull Thirdly It draweth vs forward to seeke mercy of God Math. 13.45.46 The wise Merchant first discouers the pearle of price and then seeketh to get possession of it The desire of a belieuer is not a dead or sluggish wish Oh that my sinnes were pardoned when hee neuer stirreth vp himselfe to receiue the promise But it is a deliberate desire of a benefite knowne possible to be attained attended with much comfort and freely promised by him that cannot lie which is euer accompanied with proportionable care to get and possesse the blessing desired Faith will not suffer a man to smoother or conceale his desires nor desires themselues to die but it perserueth and kindleth desires constraineth with an holy violence to lay them open before the Lord. Thus by faith a man commeth freely to renounce his title and interest in the world and to part with any thing that might hinder mercy The wise Merchant hauing found the pearle of price Math. 13.44 for ioy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath not as if he could merit pardon but that he might be capable of pardon and make a faithfull plea for mercy To this end also he humbleth himselfe before the throne of grace in true and vnfained confession of his sinnes freely iudging and condemning himselfe before God which a broken and contrite heart I will declare mine iniquitie I will bee sorie for my sinne Psal 38.18 So the prodigall sonne comming home to his Father doth bewaile his former lewdnesse saying I haue sinned against Heauen and before thee Pharaoh and Saul being euidently conuinced of sinne Luk. 15.18 Psal 32.5 may be constrained in conscience to make some confession to men I haue sinned this time and the Lord is righteous I haue played the foole and erred exceedingly Exod. 9.27 1. Sam. 26.21 1. Reg. 21.29 Ahab humbleth himselfe before God putteth on sackecloth in hope to preuent the temporall euill denounced against him and his house But the confession of true and vnfained faith is free and voluntarie in hope of free pardon and forgiuenesse Temporarie belieuers may make confession of there sinnes with some griefe and sorrow but as they confesse their sinnes so they belieue their confession is maimed and their faith superficiall they renounce not their interest in the world which inferres the willing choice of some inferiour good before the fauour and loue of God and their beliefe of the promises is shallow and subordiâ—ate to their base earthly passions But
the confession of faith vnfained is heartie and sincere ioyned with a true detestation of all sinne as that which hath and would make seperation betwixt God and him if it be not renounced by him and pardoned of God And to them that confesse their sinnes in this manner is the promise made If wee confesse our sinnes God is faithfull 1. Ioh. 1.9 and iust to forgiue vs our sinnes and to cleanse vs from all vnrighteousnes Pro. 28.19 Hee that couereth his sinnes shall not prosper but who so confesseth and forsaketh them shall haue mercy Onely acknowledge thine iniquity that thou hast transgressed against the Lord thy God Ier. 3.13 1. Cor. 11.31 If wee would iudge our selues we should not be iudged I said I will confesse my transgressions vnto the Lord and thou forgauest the iniquitie of my sin Psal 32.5 Which is most liuely to be seene in the parable of the prodigall before mentioned where the Father resembling God is said to haue met his lost sonne before he came at him Luk 15.20 and to haue embraced and kissed him after hee was resolued in himselfe to acknowledge and confesse his faults As faith teacheth the poore sinner to humble himselfe in vnfaâ—ned confession of his manifould offences so it stirreth anâ— encourageth him to power out his soule in eaâ—nest and heartie prayer vnto God for pardon and forgiuenesse Act. 8.22 through the mediation of Iesus Chrâ—st Thus hee is taught of God Take with you words and turne to the Lord Hos 14 2. say vnto him Take away all iniquity and receiue vs gratiously so will we render the calues of our lips Both these may be seene in the poore Publican who durst not lift vp his eyes to Heauen Luk. 18.13 but smote himselfe vpon the breast saying God bee mercifull to mee a sinner And so the Church prayeth O remember not against vs former iniquities lâ—t thy tender mercies speedily preuent vs. Ioel. 2.17 Psal 79.8 This prayer of faith is not presented before God in assurance that his sins be already pardoned but to obtaine pardon of the rich mercy of God by and through the merits of Iesus Christ And the pâ—omise is to him that prayeth vnfainedly that he shall be forgiuen 2. Chro. 7.14 If my people whâ—ch are called by Name shall humble themselues and pray and seeke my face and turne from their wicked wayes then will I heare from Heauen and will forgiue their sinne Aske and it shall be giuen you Math. 7.7 Ioel. 2.32 Rom. 10.13 seeke and yee shall finde Whosoeuer shall call vpon the name of the Lord shall be deliuered vizt from sinne and death Fourthly Faith receiueth the promise of mercy made in Christ and embraceth or resteth vpon the speciall fâ—ee mercy of God in Chrâ—st for pardon and hereby we are iustified that is of sinners made Iust and Righteous not by infusion of holinesse but by free condonation and acceptation of grace Christ is euery where made the thing which faith embraceth to saluation and whom it lookeâ—h vnto and respecteth as it makes vs righteous in the sight of God and faith iustifyeth Ioh. 11.25.26 Act. 15.11 Rom. 10.4 Gal. 2 16. Eph. 1.15 Phil. 3.9 not by any vertue or dignitie of it owne but as it receiueth and resteth on Christ our Righteousnes our Sauiour our Redeemer from sinne and death It is the good pleasure of God reuealed in the Gospell to pardon and iustifie them from all their sinnes that belieue in Christ and faith iustifieth as it leaneth vpon him to receiue speciall mercie through him or which is all one to obtaine forgiuenesse of sinners of the meere and rich grace of God through him and this is the most formall act of faith as iustifying Fifthly It doth certifie of pardon granted and sealed vnto vs It doth obtaine receiue and assure of forgiuenesse in particular I know that my Redeemer liueth Iob. 19.25 Psal 32.5 Isay 38.17 Psal 65.3 Gal. 2.20 1. Ioh. 3.14 Thou forgauest the iniquitie of my sinne Thou hast cast all my sinnes behind thy backe As for our transgressions thou shalt purge them away Christ hath loued me and giuen himselfe for me We know that we are passed froÌ„ death vnto life because we loue the brethren These are diuine conclusions of a liuely faith But this perswasion or assurance that our sinnes are already pardoned is not an act of faith iustifying as it iustifyeth but an act of faith following iustification a priuiledge granted of grace to a sinner now set in the state of grace or an act of experience in a sinner now iustified by faith Forgiuenesse of sinnes in and through Christ is offered in the Gospell to euery burdened and wearie soule that will receiue it as the ground of faith vouchsafed to euery one that belieueth but pardon of sinne is apprehended as already granted when wee come to be assured that wee doe belieue Faith in order of nature is precedent to Iustification but Iustification it selfe goeth before the sence thereof As faith obtaineth and receiueth the promise of speciall mercie it doth not finde vs Iust when we begin to belieue but maketh vs Iust by embracing the Righteousnesse of Christ as it certifyeth and assureth of fauour it doth not actiuely Iustifie but findeth the thing dâ—ne already Faith assureth of the pardon of sinne by a double act First it layeth hold vpon the generall promises made to Belieuers such as these Iohn 3.18 Acts 13.39 Iohn 3.36 He that belieueth shall be saued By faith euery one that belieueth is iustified Hee that beliâ—ueth hath euerlasting life Secondly it concludes vndoubtedly from them That hee belieuing is alreadie receiued into fauour and hath obained remission of sinnes Now betwixt these two comes the testimonies of the renewed Conscience 1. Cor. â— 11 working vpon the soule by reflexion whereby the true Belieuer is made priuie to his owne estate and assured that he doth belieue The whole is collected thus He that belieueth in Christ is alreadie Iustified or hath receiued pardon and forgiuenesse This is the voice of faith grounding it selfe vpon the expresse testimonie of God speaking in holy Scripture But I belieue This is the witnesse of the renewed conscience enlightened by the Spirit and directed by the Word whereby the Belieuer comes to know what God hath wrought in him For no man can be said to Belieue that hee doth Belieue but he belieueth the promises by faith and knoweth himselfe to bee a Belieuer by the wâ—tnesse of his Conscience renewed by the Spirit The conclusion of faith grounded vpon the former propositions the one expressed in Scripture the other euident by the witnesse of Conscience is Therefore my sinnes are forgiuen or I shall be saued The order of climbing to this assurance is the rather to bee marked that weake Christians who want the comfortable sence and feeling of this mercy might learne to seeke it in due order as the way is laid
thy wings They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatnesse of thy house and thou shalt make them drinke of the riuer of thy pleasures For with thee is the fountaine of life in thy light shall we see light It is a pleasure to him to want other pleasures who is oft and euery day serious in the meditation of the remission of his sinnes the free grace and eternall loue of God towards him in Iesus Christ He that is euery day busied to fetch out a pardon of course for his daily infirmities and to make euen reckoning betwixt God and his Soule that nothing remaine on the score to interrupt his peace shall neither be idle nor vnprofitable neither want imployment nor comfort This course can open no gap to licentiousnesse libertie in sinne Psal 19.12 13. or carnall securitie for he is euer most studious not to runne into arrerages who is most desirous to haue his debts cancelled and blotted out Faith is of the nature of souereigne purifying waters which so wash off the corruption of the vlcer that they coole the heate and stay the spread of the infection and by degrees heale the same And of Cordials which so comfort and ease the heart as also they expell noxious humours and strengthen nature against them Iustifying faith takes kindly rooting in a cleane heart and being rooted purifieth it more and more Faith that pleads for mercie doth cleaue to the Commandements stirre vp to holinesse ouer-rule the affections delight in purity and diffuse the vertue of the word into euery facultie of the soule It may be obiected If faith certifie that our sinnes be pardoned and there be such ioy in belieuing how comes it to passe that many good Christians liue so long in feare and doubt Wence it is that many good Christians liue so long in feare and doubâ— who would bee contented to take any paines to bee setled in assurance of Gods loue The common causes of this slownesse of beliefe are many First an immoderate aggrauation of their sinne and continuall thought of their vnworthinesse Thus the case stands with many poore Christians faine they would belieue as they acknowledge but they are vnworthy they haue beene sinners These must knowe it is good they should see their owne vnworthinesse but not that they should be hindred thereby from comming to Christ it is good to denie themselues but not to doubt of the mercy of the Lord. Christ came to seeke that which was lost Math. 18.11 Esay 61.1.2 Math. 9.13 1. Pet. 3.18 Rom. 5.10 Math. 11.28 to binde vp the broken hearted and to saue sinners He died for his enemies for the vnworthy He inuiteth the burdened to come vnto him and makes sute to the poore and worthlesse that he might ease and inrich them If they were not vnworthy what neede had they of Gods mercy or how should God glorifie the riches of his mercy in pardoning their offences The feeling of their vnworthines makes them fit to receiue mercy from God who doth vâ—uchsafe it freely seeing besides their sinne which makes them vnworthy they haue a sence of it and an heart broken for it If they were not vnworthy they could noâ— belieue If their case had not beene desperate what neede was there that Christ should come from the bosome of his Father Esay 43.25 and 44.22 Hos 14.3.4 Pardon is offered freely of grace the more vile they be in themselues the fitter to receiue this vndeserued kindnesse Oh but their sinnes are grieuous and notorious scarlet crying scandalous sinnes This detestation of sinne is greatly to bee commended if they remember withall Ezra 10.2 that there is hope in Israel concerning this if they will set one eye vpon the mercy of God as they set the other vpon the vilenesse of their iniquities If their sinnes be many and great Eph. 2.4 Psal 3â— 5 Psal 51.1.2 Exod. 34.6.7 Esay 55.9 God is rich in mercy abundant in goodnesse hath a multitude of tender mercies His mercie reacheth aboue the Heauens he forgiueth iniquitie transgressioÌ„ sin rebellion All faults are easily pardonable to his infinite mercy which exceeds Mans as Heauen doth Earth which can readilier forgiue seuentie then Man seuen offences Was not Adam Manasses Paul the sinfull woman commonly called Mary Magdalene 2 Chron. 33.12.13 1. Tim. 1.13.15 Act. 2.37.38 Luk. 7. â—7 the Cretians and Iewes who imbrewed their hands in the bloud of Christ receiued of him to mercie Doth not â—e delight to forgiue much that he may binde to loue much Shall not his fauour superabound to the sence of faith where sinne hath abounded to the wounding of Conscience It matters not what the wound is so Christ be the Physitian Iohn 1.7 Esay 1.18 The bloud of Christ cleanseth vs from all sinne Nothing but the bloud of Christ can wash away the guilt of the least sin and his bloud is sufficient to purge the most polluted Conscience But they haue felt no extraordinary measure of sorrow for sinne they are rather dull and sencelesse Are they weary of sinne haue they sorrowed to selfe-deniall and to renounce their interest in whatsoeuer might seperate betwixt Christ and them To such is the word of Reconciliation sent But they haue often slipped into the same sinnes There is a difference of offences There be sinnes of ignorance infirmity forgetfulnesse and sudden passion whereunto the heart yeeldeth not aduised consent and from which the faithfull by reason of their frailtie can neuer be free in this life in some degree or other Now vnto these God of his mercy is pleased to grant a pardon of course 1. Iohn 1.8 1. Iohn 2.2 notwithstanding his seruants step oft into them through weaknesse prouided they humble themselues seeke mercy and labour the mortification of their infirmities Abraham twice denied Sarah to be his wife saying Shâ— is my Sister Of Dauid it is recorded that though hee were a man after Gods owne heart in all things except the matter of Vriah yet of frailtie hee offended many times in the same particular There bee foule enormious notorious sins which wound the conscience and stop and hinder the liuely operation of grace and these mâ—st be repented of and aduisedly left and forsâ—ken before we can belieue to the pardon and forgiuenesse of them Neuerthelesse if a man haue often fallen into these offences he is not to despaire but seriously to confesse and to forsake hiâ— sinne that he may obtaine mercy For the Lord inuiteth the obstinate and rebellious to repent and by word and oath assureth them of forgiuenesse if they will returne And if wee looke vpon examples we shall finde many such who vpon humiliation and earnest prayer haue beene receiued vnto mercy But they haue fallen grieuously since conuersion So did Dauid and Peter who yet recouered by grace and vpon repentance were forgiuen A foule offence after grace receiued is not vnpardonable The bloud of Christ which washeth away the guilt of sinnes
mentioned and answered before Now if any poore and weake Christian desire to know as he desires nothing more how he should stirre vp himselfe to belieue the promise of forgiuenes when he wants the comfort of it yea when to his owne sence he feeles the contrarie First he must vnfainedly humble his soule before God in the confession of sin with earnest prayer for pardon For he that acknowledgeth his sins shall be receiued into fauour Ier 3.13 O Lord I haue sinned and thou art iustly displeased I haue cast off thy law and thy wrath is kindled against me My heart trembleth at the apprehension of thy sore dispeasure and I am afraid of thy iudgements All this is come vpon me by reason of my foolishnesse Psal 38.5 my smart and sorrow is bred in mine owne bosome I haue no rest in my bones because of my sinne Psal 38 3. But deare Father I looke vnto thee for mercy in Iesus Christ I beseech thee take away the transgression of thy seruant 2. Sam. 24 10. It is thy propertie to shew mercy it is thy free promise to pardon the iniquities transgressions and sinnes of thy people that turne vnto thee and pray for thy Names sake be fauorable to mine iniquities and remember my sin no more cast them behind thy backe Exod. 34.6.7 1. Reg 8.33.34 Isa 43.25 and 44.22 Isal 38.17 Mic. 7.18 Psal 52.2 doe them away as a mist and burie them in perpetuall obliuion I haue gone astray like a lost sheepe but now my desire is to returne home vnto thee With my whole heart I desire thy fauour O suffer mee not to perish vnder the burden of my sinne Remember not to my reuoltings from thy Commandements but according to the multitude of thy tender compassions remember me for thy goodnesse sake O Loâ—d Truth it is I am not worthy to be called thy sonne or to be pertaker of the least crumme of thy mercy But thou art a most louing and compassionate Father who dealest not according to the iniquities of thy children that trespasse against thee Num. 14.19 Psal 103.10 nor rewardest them according to their deserts who retainest not thine anger for euer because mercy pleaseth thee If thou wilt be mercifull to my sin then shall thy glory appeare my heart shall bee enflamed with thy loue I shall walke in thy feare and my tongue shall sing of thy goodnesse Secondly He must rowse and stirre vp himselfe to belieue with reasons drawne from the promises and couenant of God made in Iesus Christ considerations taken out of the Word and experience of his dealing with other his seruants in former times Psal 4â— Why art thou cast downe O my soule why art thou disquieted within mee Trust in God and cast thy burthen vpon him for hee will ease thee Math. 11.28 Esay 55.1 2. Mic. 7.19 Psal 65.3 Psal 85.2 Esay 1.18 2 Cor. 5.19 20. 1 John 3.23 Thou hast his promise confirmed by oath and couenant that hee will cast thy sinnes into the bottome of the Sea purge away thy transgressions foâ—giue thine iniquities couer all thine infirmities and neuer remember them any more Behold hee perswadeth intreateth beseecheth commandeth thee to belieue why art thou afraid It is the will of God that thou shouldst rest on his mercy hee cannot bee offended for that which himselfe commandeth nor denie that which he hath promised Rom. 5.20 Eph. 5.2 1.7 If sinne abound mercie shall abound much more His burning wrath is pacified in Iesus Christ who hath giuen himselfe an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweete smelling sauour that grace might glorifie herselfe in the pardoning of thy offences Hast thou nothing to bring before him but sinne and impietie that hee abhorreth Hee looketh vpon thee in his deare Sonne Iesus Christ Rom. 3.25 Hosea 14.3 whom hee hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his bloud and loueth freely Doest thou require testimonies of his vndeserued kindnesse God so loued the world Iohn 3.16 that he gaue his onely begotten Sonne that whosoeuer belieueth in him should not perish but haue euerlasting life Esay 54.8 Ezek. 16 60. He hath entred into a free and euerlasting couenant with thee and waited long for thy conuersion when thou wentest astray and will he not much more haue mercie vpon thee now thou prayest Why art thou dismayed at the sight of thy great vnworthinesse Miserie is the obiect of mercy Acts 9.11 the greater thy distresse the more glorious will bee the grace of God in thy deliuerance The baâ—er thou art in thine owne sight the fitter to belieue for faith excludes all conceite of worth and receiueth pardon as a meere gift of grace Sinfull men whose compassions are not as the drop of a bucket to the huge Ocean if compared with the infinite Sea of mercie which is in our God must forgiue their Brethren till seuentie times seuen times Luke 17.34 if they sinne against them and repent Our God who requires so much of vs who haue nothing but what he giueth will hee not deale tenderly with the poore soule which hath sinned and repenteth God hath done more for vs then for shame we could desire before we asked any thing at his hand yea when wee sought to excuse our disobedience and charge the fault vpon his Highnesse what will he not doe when we accuse our selues and pray for mercie My soule nothing can hurt thee but vnbeliefe Thou art wounded by sinne Belieue in Christ and by his bloud thou art healed God is angry Belieue and thou art reconciled All variance ceaseth when thou art knit vnto Christ Wherefore shake off dâ—strust hearken no longer to the assaults of Satan but roll thy selfe vpon the Lord and sticke fast vnto his mercie If thou want the sence of his loue thou hast his promise that hee will be good vnto thee cleaue vnto it aboue all thou canst feele see or comprehend O my God I will trust in thee though thou shouldest kill me I will belieue thy fauour when thou frownest vpon me and expect comfort when I lie groaning vnder the heauie weight of thy displeasure Thou causest man for a time to possesse the sinnes which thou hast pardoned and I will belieue the pardon of my sins when thou seâ—mest to set them in order before my face Thirdly Hee must bee instant with the Lord to giue him both strength of faith and the sight of his beliefe that he may know he doth belieue vnfainedly Giue me Gratious Father to belieue as thou commanded mee to relie vpon thee Thou stretchest forth thy hand in loue and offerest rich treasures of goodnesse to them that lay hold vpon them create in mee the hand of faith that I may effectually receiue what in mercy thou reachest forth The knowledge of faith is of thee as is the gift it selfe giue me the Spirit of reuelation that I may discerne truly what thou hast giuen me
that my lips may sing of thy prayse all the day long Fourthly He must comfort his heart in the certaintie of Gods Word though for the present he feele no comfort Returne vnto thy rest O my soule for the Lord will deale bountifully with thee His Word is gone forth in truth waite a little while and thou shalt behold the light of his countenance The Lord deferreth to grant the comfort of forgiuenesse Why God deferreth to grant the profit of forgiuenesse that hee might confirme faith traine thee vp in obedience trie thy patience preserue his graces and doe thee good in the later end Thou art alreadie blessed because the grant of pardon is sealed and receiued the sence of deliuerance pertaineth to the execution which for a little season is deferred that it may bee perfected with greater glory to God and comfort to thy selfe Blessed bee the Lord who hath turned away his eyes from my transgressions but hath not turned away his mercy from me Reioyce in the Lord O my soule againe I say reioyce for he hath couered thine iniquities and purged away thy sinne that thou shalt not die Oh the blessednesse of that man whose iniquities are forgiuen to whom the Lord imputeth no sinne Fiftly Thus faith is daily to be preserued and quickened vnto which it is not vnprofitable to adde some thoughts concerning the blessednesse of the Man whose debts are cancelled out of Gods Booke the grace and loue of God who vouchsafeth to shew compassion herein the price that was payed to diuine Iustice that grace might iustly conferre this blessing vpon them that belieue These things may serue to quicken the heart in the consideration of this mercie CHAP. III. What it is to liue by faith touching the promises of Sanctification and how to stirre vp our selues thereunto Of the promises of sanctification THe next spirituall promises of things absolutely necessarie to saluation are concerning Sanctification or the killing of sinne and quickening vs to newnesse of life by the continued infusion of holinesse and renouation of our hearts according to Gods Image and to the enabling vs to walke in new obedience according to couenant And this is signified by the generall tearmes of subduing sauing washing cleansiâ—g and purging from sinne and iniquitie Mic 7.18 19. Who is a God like vnto thee that pardoneth iniquitie and passeth by the trangression of the remnant of his heritage he retaineth not his anger for euer because hee delighteth in mercy He will turne againe he will haue compassion vpon vs hee will subdue our iniquities and thou wilt cast all their sinnes into the depths of the Sea Math. 1.21 He shall saue his p ople from their sinne which as it is true in the matter of our Iustification for the forgiuenesse of our sinne so also in the point of Sanctification for deliuering vs from the power of sinne And so are the like generall speeches to be vnderstood Iohn 1 29. 1 Iohn 2.2 1 Iohn â— 7 that Christ is the Lambe of God which takâ—th away the sinnes of the world that he was manifested to take away our sinnes that the bloud of Christ clenseth vs from all sinne Apoc. 1.5 that hee loued vs and washed vs from our sinnes in his owne bloud And this is that which the Lord of his free mercie promised to effect for his Church and people Esay 4.3 4. And it shall come to passe that he that is left in Zion and he that remaineth in Ierusalem shall be called holy euen euery one that is written among the liuing in Ierusalem When the Lord shall haue washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion and shall haue purged the bloud of Ierusalem from the midst thereof by the Spirit of Iudgement and by the spirit of burning Now seeing we haue such promises from God it followeth necessarily that a Christian is allowed to belieue A Christian is allowed to beleeue these promises that God of his free grace in Christ will purge him from the filthy remainders of sinne and renew him more and more after his owne Image in righteousnesse and true holinesse In the couenant of grace which God made with his people hee promiseth to take away their hearts of stone Ezek. 11.19 Ier. 31.33 32.40 Ezek. 36.26 27 and to giue them hearts of flesh to put his law in their inward parts and write it in their hearts to put his feare in their hearts that they shall not depart from him and to giue them a new heart and to put his Spirit within them But what God promiseth faith receiueth It is no presumption but true obedience to assure our selues from God of whatsoeuer hee hath past his promise and entred into band and couenant freely to giue The burdened are inuited to come vnto Christ for ease and the thirstie for refreshing Is any man dried withered and burnt vp for lacke of the sap and moisture of grace the fountaine is set open vnto him hee may come and drinke to the satisfying of his soule If any man thirst Reuel 22.17 Iohn 7.37 Verse 38. let him come vnto me and drinke He that belieueth on me as the Scripture saith out of his belly shall flow riuers of liuing water Christ is the fountaine of grace and the well of life euer-flowing and euer full John 1.16 Col. 1.19 Ephes 1 23. Col. 3.10 11. Col. 2.10 of whose fulnes euery Belieuer doth receiue grace for grace who filleth all in all who is all in all in whom wee are compleate filled with all heauenly graces which serue to remoue euill or set vs in state of blessednesse There is no grace but from Christ no communion with Christ but by faith From Christ we receiue to belieue and from him belieuing we daily sucke the life of grace Christ is made vnto vs of God Wisdome and Sanctification 1. Cor. 1.30 as well as Righteousnesse and Redemption and as it is our dutie to belieue in Christ for pardon of sinne so to embrace him by faith for sanctification and to bee filled with his gifts of grace in our measure Christ by his bloud hath purchased for his people all spirituall blessings in heauenly things Apoc. 1.5 Ephes 1.3 2. Pet. 1.3 euen all thâ—ngs that pertaine to glory in the world to come and to liue godly in this present world But what Christ hath purchased that we may assuredly belieue God will bestow He will not with-hold any thing that he hath gratiously giuen to our Sauiour on our behalfe We are taught to aske of God in Iesus Christ increase and strength of grace that wee may be inabled to walke before him in new obedience Col. 1.9 10. We cease not to pray for you and to desire that yee might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdome and spirituall vnderstanding That yee might walke worthy of the Lord vnto all pleasing being fruitfull in euery good worke and increasing in
Iohn 2.25 My sheepe heare my voice and I know them and they follow me And I giue vnto them eternall life and they shall neuer perish In the Gospell wee find eternall life promised vpon condition of faith in Christ Belieue on the Lord Iesus Christ and thou shalt be saued and what God promiseth of free grace that faith doth certainly receiue Life is promised vpon condition of faith and by faith wee are quickened entitled vnto and made pertakers of life euerlasting Iohn 3.36 Hee that belieueth on the Sonne hath euerlasting life Hee that heareth my Word and belieueth on him that sent me hath euerlasting life Iohn 5.24 and shall not come into condemnation but hath passed from death to life This is the record 1 Iohn 5.11 12 13. that God hath giuâ—n to vs eternall life and this life is in his Sonne He that hath the Sonne hath life and he that not the Sonne hath not life If once we be bâ—ought to belieue in Christ life etâ—rnall is then begun in vs. This is life eternall Iohn 17.3 to know that is with the knowledge of faith thee to be the onely true God and Iesus Christ whom thou hast sent Col. 3.4 Ephes 3.17 For Christ is our life who dwels in our hearts by faith and therefore whosoeuer belieue in him haue life through and with him And this life is not another but one in substance with that blessed and glorious estate which the Saints enioy in Heauen though different in degree Againe when first we belieue then wee are intituled to life euerlasting and so haue the accomplishment of glorie in respect of right and proprietie 1. Pet. 1.3.4 Blessed bee the God and Father of our Lord Iesus Christ which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten vs againe vnto a liuely hope by the resurrection of Iesus from the dead To an inheritance incorruptible and vndefiled and that fadeth not away That being iustified by his grace wee should be made heires according to the hope of eternall life For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God Titus 3.7 by the death of his Sonne much more being reconciled wee shall be saued by his life They which receiue abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousnesse Rom. 5.10 Verse 17. shall raigne in life by one Iesus Christ To an earthly inheritance title followeth vpon the birth to the spirituall vpon our Adoption But when wee belieue in Christ wee are then made the Sonnes of God by Adoption yea sonnes accepted To as many as receiued him Ephes 1.6 John 1.12 to them gaue he priuiledge to become the Sonnes of God euen to them that belieue on his Name Behold what manner of loue the Father hath bestowed vpon vs that wee should bee called the Sonnes of God Beloued 1. Iohn 3.1 2. now are wee the Sonnes of God Gal. 3.26 29. and it doth not yet appeare what we shall be For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Iesus c. And if yee be Christs then are yee Abrahams seed and heiâ—es according to the promise Gal. 4.4 5. When the fulnesse of time was come God sent forth his Sonne made of a woman made vnder the Law to redeeme them that are vnder the Law Verse 7. that wee might receiue the adoption of Sonnes Wherefore thou art no more a seruant but a sonne Rom 8 14. and if a sonne then an heire of God through Christ. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God they are the sonnes of God Verse 17. Heb. 12.23 Therefore wee must belieue it c. And if children then heires heires of God and ioynt heires with Christ And for this cause the faithfulâ— are called the Church of the first begotten whose names are writt n in Heauen Now if eternall life be promised in the Gospell purchased by Christ and in right and title belong vnto the faithfull wee may conclude it is our part and dutie to belieue in God through Iesus Christ as well for the obtaining of eternall life to be giuen of grace as the forgiuenesse of our sinnes It is very necessary to belieue it And this is is necessarie that we might with the more quietnesse of Minde beare the afflictions and worldly losses the troubles and persecutions which befall vs in this world Heb. 10.35 36. Cast not away therefore your confidence which hath great recompence of reward for yee haue need of patience that after yee haue done the will of God yee might receiue the promise Abraham is commended in Scripture that he left his friends his natiue Countrie and all earthly hopes there whiâ—h were not small and came to dwell in a strange Land as a Pilgrime where he suffered many iniuries Heb. 11.8 9 10. anâ— was exercised with many troubles of sundry kinds all which he endured with inuincible patience by the hope and desire of eternall life and that heauenly Countrie whereunto hee was called The hope of Heauen is the firme and sure anchor of the soule to sustaine and stablish it that it bee not tossed vp and downe and ouer-whelmed with reproaches and indignities Heb. 6 19. offered with the worldly losses miseries of this life It serues also to establish our hearts against sundry worldly cares and feares affectation of earthly greatnesse and carking for earthly necessaries For why should we admire the glory of this life when most excellent glory riches and happinesse ioyned with it is prepared and giuen vs through faith in Christ Why should we doubt of earthly necessaries when God hath bequeathed vnto vs an heauenly kingdome Faith in Christ to receiue an incorruptible crowne of glory will moderate desires of earthly things that wee shall neither admire nor aspire after great things below nor basely dist ust the Lord for supply of what he knowes meete and conuenient for vs. Feare not little flocke Luk. 12.32 for it is your Fathers good pleasure to giue you the Kingdome If wee keepe Heauen in our eye and looke to the high price of our calling wee shall fight couragiously and runne with paâ—ience notwithâ—tanding all opposition What can daunt him in the wayes of godlinesse or make him slaâ—ke his pace who runnes to obtaine not a corruptible but an incorruptible crowne 1. Cor. 9.25 By faith some were tortured not accepting deliuerance Heb. 11.35 that they might obtaine a better resurrection Let vs runne with patience vnto the race that is set before vs Looking vnto Iesus Heb. 12.1.2 the Author and finisher of our faith who for the ioy that was set before him endured the crosse despising the shame and is set downe at the right hand of the throne of God The acts of faith concerning these promises be these The acts of faith concerning these promises First As an humble petitioner it receiueth and layeth hold vpon saluation it selfe promised which wee haue of Gods
delight This is a true saying The charter anciently giuen by that great Lord of all at our first conuersion touching the vse of his creatures was forfeited into the hands of the Doner by Adams fall But it is restored and renewed by Christ to them who aâ—e honoured with the Adoption The heires of heauen are the right inheritors of the earth The Sonnes of God by Adoption are Brethren and Coheires with Christ whom the Father hath appointed heire of all things Rom. 8.17 and hence ariseth vnto them the holy vse of â—he creatures Heb. 1.2 and ministerie of the Angells Are chastisements needfull or behooffull for them Iere. 46.28 Esay 54.8 Heb. 12.10 11. Ier. 24.5 Esay 27.9 Psal 89.31.32 1. Pet 4.14 Rom. 8.28 Acts of Faith that arise from the priuiledges of the godly He will correct them in measure for a moment fâ—r good to take away sinne but his louing kindnesse he will not take from them nor suffer his faithfulnesse to faile Are they loaded with reproaches for righteousnesse sake The Spirit of glorie and of God shall rest vpon them In a word whatsoeuer may happen All things shall worke together for the best vnto them And seeing God hath prepared and promised such excellent priuiledges vnto his children in this life hence it is that faith resteth vpon his grace to receiue from him whatsoeuer may be good and profitable for them O how great is the goodnesse which thou hast laid vp for them that feare thee Psal 31.19 which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sonnes of men Verse 20. Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man thou shalt keepe them secretly in a pauilion Psal 36.7 from the strife of tongues How excellent is thy louing kindnesse O Lord therefore the children of men put their trust vnder the shadow of thy wings verse 8. They shall bee abundantly satisfied with the fulnesse of thy house and thou shalt make them drinke of the riuer of thy pleasures The Lord is my shepheard Psal 23.1 I shall not want He shall leade his flocke like a shepheard he shall gather the lambes with his arme Esay 40 11. and cary them in this bosome and shall gently lead those that are with young What can they want Psal 146.5 6 7 8 9. Leuit. 26.12 2. Cor. 6.16 Prou. 10.24 Esay 49.15 16. Deut. 14.2 who haue god to be their Father to prouide for them and protect them to blesse them and dwell with them to succour them and supply them with all needfull blessings spirituall and bodily in fittest season whose eare is open to their desires whose compassions exceed the tendernes of a mother to her sucking babe who hath chosen them to be his owne proper good which he loueth and keepeth in store for himselfe and for speciall vse Thou Israel art my seruant Iacob whom I haue chosen the seed of Abraham my friend Esay 41 8 9. Thou whom I haue taken from the ends of the earth and called thee from the chiefe men thereof and said vnto thee Thou art my seruant I haue chosen thâ—e and not cast thee away Feare thou not for I am with thee Verse 10. bee not dismayed for I am thy God I will strengthen thee yea I will help thee yea I will vphold thee with the right hand of my righteousnesse Verse 17. When the poore and needie seeke water and there is none and their tongue faileth for thirst I the Lord will heare them I the Lord of Israel will not forsake them Verse 18. I will open riuers in the high places and fountaines in the midst of the valleyâ—s I will make the wildernesse a poole of water and the dry land springs of water Secondly It petitioneth instantly for succour For it seeth in God whatsoeuer it needeth or desireth and will neuer cease to seeke reliefe The more confident it is to obtaine the more importunate it will bee in suing Oile put to the fire causeth the flame to ascend and the promises of helpe and succour receiued by faith put life and vigour into the petitions of faith Heare O Lord Psal 27.7 8. Verse 9. when I cry with my voice haue mercy also vpon mee and answere me Hide not thy face farre from me put not thy seruant away in anger thou hast beene my helpe leaue me not neither forsake me O God of my saluation Vnto thee wiâ—l I cry Psal 28.1 2. O Lord my rocke be not silent to me lest if thou be silent to me I become like them that goe downe into the pit Heare the voice of my supplications when I cry vnto thee when I lift vp my hands towards thy holy Oracle With-hold not thou thy tender mercies from me O Lord Psal 40.11 let thy louing kindnesse and thy truth continually preserue me Thirdly It receiueth earthly blessings as gifts of the couenant and part of his childes portion God vouchsafeth outward things to wicked men of common bountie but to his children the blessings of this life bee tokens of his loue and speciall good-will and so receiued and embraced by faith For substance the gift is one both to the Iust and vniust but in respect of the cause possession and vse there is great difference which is discerned by faith though it cannot be seene with the eye Hosea 2.20 21 22. I will euen betroth thee vnto me in faithfulnesse and thou shalt know the Lord. And it shall come to passe in that day I will heare saith the Lord I will heare the Heauens and they shall heare the Earth and the Earth shall heare the Corne and the Wine and the Oile and they shall heare Iezreel Fourthly Faith in these and the foresaid promises doth greatly enlarge the heart towards God and stirreth vp to a serious and earnest studie of holinesse If a Christian be much in the meditation of Gods singular goodnesse towards him euery manner of way aboue all that he could possibly aske or thinke it will euen constraine him to yeeld vp himselfe wholy vnto God in all manner of godly conuersation Psal 26.2 3. Examine me O Lord and proue me try my reines and my heart For thy louing kindnesse is before mine eyes and I haue walked in thy truth Fiftly It doth inwardly quiet and cheere the heart in the midst of manifold outward discouragements troubles and persecutions in the world Hope of glorie in due time to be reuealed and of continuall supply of all good th ngs from God in the meane space to bee freely giuen will stâ—blish the heart with strong consolation and cause in outward pâ—ofession of Ioy to the glory of God the encouragement of other faithfull people and the amazement of the wicked Heb. 10.34 This is to bee seene in the liues and deaths of Gods faithfull seruants who tooke ioyfully the spoiling of their goods knowing in themselues that they had
in part which may bee increased by a daily addition to the graces and comforts of the Adopted why should I be negligent to seeke it confirmed and sealed Euerlasting life is the only true life full of ioy peace and contentation a durable treasure which can neuer fade a crowne that neuer withereth and shall base things take vp the heart when God calleth to seeke a most glorious and euerlasting inheritance Oh the inestimable loue and fauour of God who makes offer of an Adoption and immortall Inheritance to the most contemptible wretches that liue vpon the face of the earth The man that toiles hard all day long for a small piece of siluer or lies at the rich mans gate waiting for an Almes the scraps that come from his Table he is inuited to come vnto Christ that hee might obtaine a kingdome an eternall kingdome that hath none end an inheritance abundantly glorious surpassing the glory worth of all earthly treasures inheritances laid together much more then all earthly treasures doe exceed the worth of one pin What an heart-break is it to a man when he finds that by some default he hath forfeited some earthly matters which he might haue held had he bin warie but what griefe and confusion will this cause when he shall see that through folly sloth carelessenesse matchlesse crueltie vnthankfulnesse he hath lost an euerlasting inheritance of glory which he might haue obtained Meere possibility of coÌ„passing some great extraordinary good is of more weight in swaying mens actions inciting endeuours then certaintie of accomplishing pettie desires But certainty coÌ„modity do here concurre in one There is no good to the possession of eternall life no successe certaine but this that he who vnfainedly belieueth in Christ shal inherit the crown of glory It is good for me to draw nigh vnto God and put my trust in his mercy to lay fast hold vpoÌ„ the promises of life protectioÌ„ to get the spirit of Adoption whereby we cry Abba Father and fly vnto his grace in Christ to get my title made sure and strengthned vnto my conscience and while time serueth earnestly to seeke the kingdome of God Thirdly Wee must pray earnestly that God would increase our faith seale vs by his Spirit lead vs in the way of peace cause vs to grow vp in holinesse make vs wise to prize and value to tast and relish the ioyes of Heauen and assure our consciences of right and title to that euerlasting inheritance For it is God that sealeth vs and makes vs to read the sealing that promiseth Heauen and affecteth the heart with the goodnesse and worth of the thing promised that by the pledges of his fauour and the earnest of his Spirit doth sufficiently testifie our Adoption and cause vs certainely to apprehend what he doth testifie and assure As the beginnâ—ng so the progresse comfort and assurance of life is from him and instantly is to be begged of him Faith receiueth the promise of life and giues assurance of what is receiued as it prayeth Who am I O Lord that thou shouldst make such ample and free promises vnto thy poore seruant concerning his euerlasting happinesse Of thy free mercy and according to thine owne heart hast thou spoken all these great things to make thy seruant know them And now O Lord God establish I beseech thee the word that thou hast spoken concerning thy seruant gratiously accept me for thy childe by the earnest of thy Spirit and pledges of thy fauour seale vnto me the promised inheritance and make me assuredly to know what great things thou hast done and what those hopes be which are reserued for me in Heauen My sight is dimme not proportioned and fitted to so high an obiect my affections carnall that I cannot set my selfe to purpose about this contemplation the Deuill labours nothing more then to keepe me hood-winked this way O Lord I beseech thee inable mee to know this good and blessed hope the matter of mine inheritence abundantly glorious that my heart may bee still in Heauen and by thy Spirit lead mee into all truth and holinesse 1. Thess 2.12 2. Thess 1.12.14 that in due time I may possesse the Kingdome of glory whereunto I am called Col. 1.5 Of thy free grace thou hast called me by the Gospell to this blessed hope which is laid vp for me in Heauen therefore is thy seruant bold to entreate the sence of thy loue the knowledge of this Hope the increase of grace and assurace of thy mercie for euermore Fourthly Wee must quicken our selues to reioyce in God waite patiently and walke chearefully before him Oh the incomprehensible loue and fauour of the Lord. Was it euer found that any man of rancke or place did adopt the blind lame deafe dumbe or otherwise deformed to be heire to succeed him in his inheritance My soule reioyce thou in the Lord and blesse his holy Name for he hath looked vpon my base estate and visited me with mercy from on high Of a stranger and forreiner I am made a free denizon of the new Ierusalem of the bondslaue of Satan the friend of Christ of the childe of wrath and damnation the sonne of God and heire of saluation My Name is registred in Heauen an eternall weight of glorie is reserued which the most righteous God hath promised and in fittest season will giue vnto me Why should I doate on earthly braueries who haue an eternall life that hath most excellent glory honour riches and happinesse aboue all the heart can comprehend ioyned with it prepared and giuen through faith in Christ It were notable basenes if an heire of sumptious and stately pallaces should couet the poore cotages of beggars that stand by the high way side Psal 16.5.6 The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup thou maintainest my lot The lines are fallen vnto me in pleasant places yea I haue a goodly heritage My studie and care should be to know my heauenly hopes better and more fully that I might weane my selfe the more willingly from all earthly vanities Heauen is my home my hope mine inheritance and where should my heart be but where my treasure is where my thoughts but where my hope is In this life I receiue only the first fruites of the Spirit the earnest of the inheritance but I will waite patiently for the full possession thereof and walke charefully in the way that leadeth thereunto In earthly things men are contented to waite for a good lease in reuersion and to lay out their money for that which shall not come to their hands till some liues be expired and should not I waite for the accomplishment of glory there being but one life betwixt it and mee and that is mine owne CHAP. V. What it is liue by faith touching the promises of of perseuerance and how to stirre vp our selues therevnto GOd of his infinite mercy hath made further promises the necessitie of
cease to muse on the tentations of Satan and stirre vp himselfe couragiously valiantly to trust in the mercies of the Lord and relie vpon his grace Why art thou cast downe Psal 43.5 O my soule and why art thou disquieted within mee why dost thou harbour perplexing doubtfull thoughts and in much pensiuenesse tosse too and fro the tentations of Satan Psal 39.3 This musing kindles the fire the more thou thinkest vpon the tentat on and art disquieted with doubtings the greater libertie hath the Deuill to tempt the lesse able are thou to with-stand his malice If thou bee deiected he will be insolent if thou be affâ—ighted he will bee the more furious Trust therefore in the Lord and waite vpon his grace for hee hath seene thine aduersitie he will heare thy prayers the sinnes cleauing to the tentations which thou so much fearest are pardoned forgiuen vnto thee Euill thoughts conceiued with delight pleasure and purpose are most displeasing vnto God dangerous vnto the soule but euen hellish tentations which neuer found consent or approbation vnder which thou art humbled from which thou earnestly crauest to bee deliuered doubt not but vpon thine vnfained suite they are freely remitted and done away Be strong and of good courage feare not nor be dismaied for the Lord will be thy defence and vnder the shadow of his wings thou shalt be safe Satan cannot tempt longer then God shall giue him leaue and hee will neuer suffer thee to be tempted aboue measure but will giue a good issue vnto the tentation 1. Cor. 10 13. Thou art called to fight vnder the banner of Christ Iesus and in the name of the Lord thou shalt be inabled to doe valiantly and ouercome Psal 60.12 2. Cor. 12.9 If Satan continue his assaults Gods grace is sufficient for thee If thy strength be cleane gone Gods power shall be magnified the more in thee and he hath brought thee low that thou maist not trust in thy selfe 2. Cor. 1.9 but in the liuing Lord and that the whole praise of the victory might bee ascribed vnto him If thy strength did remaine it was not to be leaned vnto and now it is decayed and gone there is no cause of feare for the Lord w ll be thy stay In the most difficult assaults and tedious encounters wee are exhorted Ephes 6.10 to bee strong in the Lord and in the power of his might Be of good courage and God will grant thee an easie a ioyfull victorie Satans drift in tempting is to turmoile dis-hearten perplexe with feares and driue into despaire and if thou take heart and courage to rest quietly vpon Gods grace and flie vnto his Name thou shalt put him to flight thou hast alreadie got the day Waite but a while and these darke mists and terrible stormes shall be dispersed By these temptations the Lord hath taught thee to see thy weaknesse and the malice of Satan to denie thine owne wisdome and prize his fauour lightly to esteeme all things here below and highly to value mercy reaching to the pardon of sinne and heauenly communion and fellowship with God And if this bitter potion hath wrought so kindly for thy spirituall good why shouldst thou bee dismayed Trust in the Lord bee of good courage and hee shall strengthen thee Psal 31.24 27.14 Psal 34.22 The Lord redeemeth the soule of his seruants and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate Fourthly He must exercise himselfe in wel-doing harbour holy and heauenly meditations nourish the motions of Gods Spirit bee zealous and diligent in Prayer reading and hearing the Word of God chearefull and industrious in the workes of his honest calling For idlenesse and deiected lumpishnesse and excessiue feare prepare for all temptations but serious and good imployment is a speciall meanes to preuent or diuert them In this case constant proceeding in a course of godlinesse and continuall exercise of Minde and Bodie in that which is good and pleasing in the sight of God doth much more auaile then direct opposition I haue too long vexed and turmoiled my selfe with the temptations of Satan broken off the exercise of godlinesse directly to answere and oppose them yeelded to thoughts of vnbeliefe giuen way to discouragements as if it had beene in vaine to pray omitted the dutie vpon conceit of vnfitnesse dulnesse vnworthinesse accounted the duties of my calling tedious and burthensome set open my heart to intangling scruples and distracting feares questioning the loue of God towards me vpon euery false suggestion and concluding oft through vnbeliefe that God had shut vp h s louing kindnesse for euer in displeasure So foolish haue I beene and ignorant euen in this point a beast Pardon O Lord the infidelity doubting deiectednesse and carnall excessiue feares of thy poore seruant deliuer my soule from the snares of Satan acquaint me with his Methods in tempting and how I may preuent him and strengthen me in the combate that I neuer faint nor breake off the course of godlinesse through vnbeliefe I am purposed through thy grace to cast my soule vpon thy tender mercies to seeke thy face continually to waite vpon thee in thine ordinances and to exercise my selfe in the workes of Pietie Mercie and an honest calling If Satan tempt to distrust raise feares seeke to discourage my soule or break off my prayers by his hellish suggestions I will striue to maintaine my faith lay faster hold vpon the promises of mercy stop mine eares against scruples and doubtings take greater courage to draw nigh vnto God belieue the acceptance of my willing though weake seruice and by how much the Deuill shall seeke to oppose or hinder my comfort courage or constancie so much the more will I stirre vp my selfe to goe forward and continue therein The Lord will heare a sigh or groane bottle vp a teare and gratiously accept poore and meane seruice from a sick childe I perceiue the maine scope of Satan in suggesting hellish temptations is to driue me into despaire disquiet the soule with feares cast me into deepe vnprofitable sorrow and discourage in euery holy dutie that I might altogether neglect it or with great heartlesnesse go about it as if it were vnprofitable should neuer be accepted And I shall then preuent Satan and put him to flight when I take occasion by his temptations to sticke closer vnto the word of promise stirre vp my selfe zealously to seeke the fauour of God turne my thoughts from disputing about his suggestions pray that I may be fitted to pray waite vpon God for helpe begge the pardon of daily infirmities and take heart and resolution to commit my soule vnto him in wel-doing striuing daily to reforme what is amisse and grow in grace but not questioning acceptance because of my infirmities present dulnesse and distemper of soule being wasted and spent Psal 17.13 whiles I struggled with the temptations of the Deuill Arise O Lord disappoint Satan cast him downe
deliuer my soule from the wicked one Bee thou my strength in trouble encline thine care vnto my prayer and saue mee for I flie vnto thee for succour I am ready to halt Psal 38.21 and my sorrow is continually before me Forsake mee not O Lord O my God bee not farre from mee Hide not thy face farre from mee put not thy seruant away in anger thou hast beene my helpe Psal 17.9 leaue me not neither forsake me O God of my saluation Verse 11 Teach me thy way O Lord and lead me in a plaine path because of mine enemies Shew me the path of life guide me in the wayes of peace giue thy strength vnto thy seruant and saue mee for thy mercy sake Psal 17.5 Hold vp my goings in thy paths that I be not turned aside by the malice or sleights of Satan I am fully resolued to depend vpon thy grace and keepe thy Commandements Lord haue mercy vpon me raise me vp and strengthen me vnto the end By this I know that thou fauourest me Psal 41.11 12. because mine enemy doth not triumph ouer me Vphold me in mine integritie and set me before thy face for euer And here if the distressed Christian haue wasted his Spirits with violent and continuall sorrow hee must bee admonished not to thinke that presently hee should recouer former liuelinesse and abilitie Satan will not cease to suggest that this course hee hath now set vpon is vaine and fruitlesse because he finds more dulnesse and loggishnesse then formerly But he must tell himselfe that naturall powers once weakened are not soone repaired and in such case when stirrings be lesse the worke of grace may be more sound then heretofore Liuelinesse and actiuenesse is greatest in youth but the truth of grace greater in age Therefore hee must not scrupulously question his state because he feeles himselfe more feeble and lesse actiue then in former times CHAP. VII How to liue by faith in the times of trouble and aduersitie specially when we be exercised with many and long afflictions Psal 34.19 AFflictions are not more ordinarie then burdensome and heauie to be borne Many are the troubles of the righteous and manifold the infirmities of the righteous in their troubles Sometimes they take carnall counsell sometimes they fret and murmure 1. Sam. 27.1 sometimes they faint and despaire for a fit Dauid said in his heart I shall now perish one day by the hand of Saul there is nothing better for me then that I should speedily escape into the land of the Philistines Psal 31.22 Psal 77.3 Verse 7. Verse 8. We stand in need to bee holpen against discouragements in affliction I I said in my haste I am cut off from before thine eyes I remembred God and was troubled I complained and my spirit was ouer-whelmed Will the Lord cast off for euer and will hee be fauourable no more Is his mercie cleane gone for euer doth his promise faile for euermore which frailtie of the Saints doth lesson vs what need we haue to bee strengthened against all discouragements and hinderances which in afflictions we shall meete withall that we neither grow wearie nor be turned aside in our Christian course And the Lord our most mercifull and louing Father knowing it to be most necessarie hath for the comfort and encouragement of his children plentifully signified that he will correct them in wisdome God correcteth in great wisdome Heb. 12.9 10. loue and tender compassion to the purge and refine them and gratiously promised to aide comfort and direct and in fittest time to deliuer them out of aduersities We haue had Fathers of our flesh who corrected vs and we gaue them reuerence shall we not much rather be in subiection vnto the Father of Spirits and liue For they verily for a few dayes chastened vs after their owne pleasure but hee for our profit that we might be pertakers of his holinesse Hath he smitten him as he smote those that smote him Measure Esay 27.7 8. Or is he slaine according to the slaughter of them that are slaine by him In measure when it shooteth forth thou wilt debate with it Ier. 46.28 30.11 he stayeth his rough winde in the day of the East winde Feare thou not O Iacob my seruant saith the Lord for I am with thee for I will make a full and of all Nations whither I haue driuen thee but I will not make a full end of thee but correct thee in measure yet will I not leaue thee wholy vnpunished This is that which the Prophet so earnestly begged of God O Lord Ier. 10.24 correct me but with iudgement not in thine anger lest thou bring me to nothing Hee corrects but for awhile For a moment Psal 30.5 For his anger endureth but a moment in his fauour is life weeping may endure for a night but ioy commeth in the morning He will not alwayes chide Psal 103.9 Ier. 3.12 Psal 125.3 neither will he keepe his anger for euer The rod of the wicked shall not rest vpon the lot of the righteous lest the righteous put forth their hands vnto iniquitie For yet a very little while Esay 10.25 and the indignation shall cease and mine anger in their destruction For a small moment haue I forsaken thee Esay 54.7 8. but with great mercies will I gather thee In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment but with euerlasting kindnesse will I haue mercie on thee saith the Lord thy Redeemer Esay 57.16 For I will not contexd for euer neither will I be alwayes wroth Mich. 7.18 for the spirit should faile before me and the soules which I haue made Who is a God like vnto thee that pardoneth iniquitie and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage in loue and He retaineth not his anger for euer because he delighteth in mercie Whom the Lord loueth he correcteth euen as a Father the Sonne in whom he delighteth Prou 3 12. Heb. 12.5 6. Reuel 3.19 Tendernesse Esay 63.9 Psal 103.13 As many as I loue I rebuke and chasten In all their affliction he was afflicted and the Angell of his presence saued them in his loue and in his pitie he redeâ—med them and he bare them and carried them all the dayes of old Like as a Father pitieth his children so the Lord pitieth them that feare him For he knoweth our frame Verse 14. hee remembreth that we are dust How shall I giue thee vp Hosea 11.8 9. Ephraim How shall I deliuer thee Israel How shall I make thee as Admah How shall I set thee as Zeboim Mine heart is turned within me my repentings are kindled together I will not execute the fiercenesse of mine anger I will not returne to destroy Ephraim for I am God and not Man the holy one in the midst of thee To proue Deut. 8.2 Thou shalt remember all the way which the
Lord thy God led thee these fortie yeares in the wildernesse to humble thee and to proue thee to know what was in thine heart Psal 66.10 Purge For thou O God hast proued vs thou hast tried vs as siluer is tried And I will turne my hand vpon thee and purâ—ly purge away thy drosse Esa 1 25. 4.4 Esay 27.9 Refine Dan. 11.35 12.10 Zech. 13.9 and take away all thy sinne By this therefore shall the iniquity of Iacob be purged and this is all the fruit to take away his sinne And some of them of vnderstanding shall fall to trie them and to purge and to make them white And I will bring the third part through the fire and will refine them as siluer is refined and will try them as gold is tried and they shall call on my Name and I will heare them 1. Pet. 1.6 7. Now for a season if need be yee are in heauinesse through manifold temptations That the triall of your faith being much more pretious then gold that perisheth though it bee tried with fire might bee sound vnto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Iâ—sus Christ 1. Pet. 4.12 Thinke it not strange concerning the fiery triall Iob 33.16 17 18. Hosea 2.6 7. which is to try you as though some strange thing happened vnto you He openeth the eares of men and sealeth their instruction That he may with-draw man from his purpose and hide pride from man He keepeth backe his soule from the pit and his life from perishing by the sword He openeth also their eare to discipline Iob 36.10 16. Confirme grace Deut 8.16 Iames 1.2 3. and commandeth that they returne from iniquitie Who led thee through that great and terrible wildernesse and that hee might proue thee to doe thee good at thy latter end My brethren count it all ioy when yea fall into diuers temptations knowing this that the trying of your faith worketh patience We glory in tribulations also Rom. 5.3 4 5. knowing that tribulation worketh patience and patience experience Iohn 15.2 Saue and experience hope and hope maketh not ashamed Euery branch that beareth fruit hee purgeth it that it may bring forth more fruit When we are iudged 1. Cor. 11.32 we are chastened of the Lord that we should not be condemned with the world For our light affliction which is but for a moment worketh for vs a farre more exceeding and eternall waight of glory Behold 2. Cor. 4.17 He will deliuer them Iob 5.17 18. out of trouble happy is the man whom God correcteth therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty For he maketh sore and bindeth vp he woundeth and his hand maketh whole He shall deliuer thee in sixe troubles yea in seuen there shall no euill touch thee Blessed is the man whom thou chastenest Psal 94.12 13. O Lord and teachest out of thy law That thou mayest giue him rest from the dayes of aduersity vntill the pit bee digged for the wicked Iames 1.12 Is tender ouer them in trouble Psal 56 8. Psal 31.7 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation for when hee is tried hee shall receiue the crowne of life which the Lord hath promised to them that loue him Thou tellest my wandrings put thou my teares in thy bottle are they not in thy booke I will be glad and reioyce in thy mercy for thou hast considered my trouble Psal 33.18 19. thou hast knownâ— my soule in aduersities Behold the eye of the Lord is vpon them that feare him vpon them that hope in his mercy To deliuer their soule from death and to keepe them aliue in famine The righteous cry Psal 4.17 18. and the Lord heareth them and deliuereth them out of all their troubles The Lord is nigh vnto them that are of a broken heart and saueth such as be of a contritâ— spi it Psal 9.9 Verse 18. The Lord also will be a refuge for the opprâ—ssed a râ—fuge iâ— times of trouble The needy shall not alwayes b e fâ—rgotten â—sal â—6 1. and present so their help Esay 41.10 11 12. the expectation of the poore shall not perish for euer God is our refuge and strength a very pâ—esent helpe in trouble Feare thou not for I am with thee bee not dismayed for I am thy God I will strengthen thee yea I will helpe thee yea I will vphold thee with the right hand of my righteousnesse Behold all they that were incensed against thee shall be ashamed and confounded they shall be as nothing and they that striue with thee shall perish Verse 14. Feare not thou worme Iacob and yee men of Israel I will helpe thee saith the Lord and thy Redeemer Esay 49.13 14 1â— 16 17. the holy One of Israel Sing O Heauen and be ioyfuâ—l O Earth and breake forth into singing O Mountaines for God hath comforted his people and will haue mercy vpon his afflicted But Zion said The Lord hath forsaken me and my God hath forgotten mee Can a woman forget her sucking babe that she should not haue compassion on the sonne of her wombe yea they may forget yet will not I forget thee Behold I haue grauâ—n thee vpon the palmes of my hands thy wals are continuaâ—y before me Psal 91.14 15. Because he hath set his loue vpon me therefore will I deliuer him I will set him on high because he hath knowne my Name He shall call vpon me and I will answere him I will be with him in trouble I will deliuer him and honour him In these and such like passages of holy Scripture wee see with what loue and tendernesse the Lord doth correct his children for the glory of his great Name and their exceeding great benefit that they might know themselues their frailâ—es and graces bee purged from their drosse emptied of selfe-conceitednesse confirmed in hope patience humilitie quiâ—kened vnto prayâ—r and fitted for his kingdome how gâ—atiously he doâ—h protect and comfort them â—n hâ—auinesse l ghten their daâ—kenes heale their wounds kâ—epâ— their feete from falling couer them with his fâ—athers hide them in his pauilion and set them vpon high from such as rise vp against them He is the saluation of the righteous and their strength in time of trouble Psal 37.39 Ier. 29.11 His thoughâ—s towards them are thoughts of peace and not of euill to giue an expected end Esay 43.1 2. Psal 73.23.24 Hee is continually with them and holdeth them by their hand hee will guide them with his counsell and afterward receiue them vnto glory These promises so often repeated bee firme grounds wheâ—eupon to builde our faith that we shall not be hindred by afflictions in our Christian course but rather furthered till we attaine vnto the end of our course in Gods Kingdome And surely it is most necessarie that we learne to liue by faith in afflictions It s necessary to learne to liue by faith in affliction
that I can offer Secondly He must call vpon his soule by many powerfull and strong perswasions to awake to the worke of God with liuelinesse Arise O my soule why sleepest thou stirre vp thy selfe with readinesse to obey the charge of God in the duties of his woâ—ship and the workes of Mercie and Iustice withstand sinne subdue corruptions fight manfully against the temptations of Satan and the allurements of the world Sticke fast vnto the testimonies of the Lord and lay his iudgements before thee For the testimonies of the Lord are wonderfull Psal 119.129 Verse 9. Verse 138. his iudgements good righteous and very faithfull his word is very pure and his law is the truth The seruice of God is perfect freedome he walketh at libertie who runneth on in obedience As tâ—y loue to the law is such shall thy life be nothing is hard to a willing minde Want of affection to the word of truth makes the duties commanded to seeme irkesome and tedious Loue the Commandements aboue gold and obedience will be as pleasant as gaine to the couetous Looke vpon the Saints who haue gone before they endured imprisonment losse of libertie the spoiling of goods hazard of life with ioy looking vnto the eternall and incomprehensible recompence of reward Thou art not called to suffer but to obey at least not to suffer such grieuous torments as they did why doest thou then delay start aside or goe forth vnwillingly Wouldest thou raigne with them and not labour with them receiue the price and not runne the race diuide the spoile and not fight the battell In the affaires of this life wee loue to excell and out-goe our fellowes as to bee first vp and about our worke to exceed in fauour riches honour wisdome and in matters of Religion to be dead and lumpish is it not abhominable Obedience is no dull seruice no dead piece of worke but the way to blessednesse and the crowne of glory Esay 45.19 The Lord hath not said Seeke me in vaine The reward of obedience is certaine though our wo kes deserue nothing The Merchant vndertakes dangerous aduentures to raise his estate inrich himselfe But what is the gold of India to the ioyes of Heâ—uen a fading possession to an eternall weight of glory striue to enter and goe forward in the straiteway that leadeth vnto life Arise why tarriest thou forget not the high price of thy calling but contend forward towards the marke Heauen is worth all thy labour We are glad to be entertained of them who haue a name to be liberall bountifull to their attendants who is to be compared to the Lord our God herein He is most able 1. Cor. 2.9 and best willing to preferre his seruants Eye hath not seene eare hath not heard it exceeds all humane capacitie to conceiue what surpassing glorie and ioy the Lord hath prepared for them that loue him Thirdly He must pray to the Lord that he would reuiue and quicken him Teach me to doe thy will Psal 143.10 for thou art my God thy Spirit is good lead me into the land of vprightnesse My desire is to doe thy good pleasure Cant. 1.4 but of my selfe I haue no abilitie thereunto Draw mee and I will runne after thee Psal 119.33 34 35. Verse 135. Teach me the way of thy statutes and I will keepe it vnto the end Giue me vnderstanding and I shall keâ—pe thy law yea I shall obserue it with my whole heart Lord thou hast commanded mee to keepe thy testimonies Psal 119.36 giue mee I pray thee to doe what thou requirest Incline my heart to thy statutes and not to couetousnes Fourthly Psal 119.93 Hee must renew his resolution to walke with God trusting in his grace I will neuer forget thy precepts for with them thou hast quickened me I haue fully purposed to keepe and cleaue vnto thy Commandements for they are they ioy of my heart But Lord I leane not vpon mine owne strength but vpon thy grace Psal 119.57.112 Psal 119.133 who gâ—ueth both to will and to doe Thou art my portion O Lord I haue said that I will keepe thy words Order my steps in thy word and let not any iniquitie haue dominion ouer mee CHAP. X. What it is to liue by faith in the duties of our vocation Christians are allowed to liue by faith in the duties of their vocation IT is the ordinance of God that men should labour in some honest vocation for their priuate maintenance and the common good that is the benefit and good estate of mankind And for encouragement he hath promised to protect and blesse them that keepe themselues within the limits and doe the workes of their calling with diligence The texts of Scripture are plaine for both Gen. 2.15 The Lord God tooke the man Gen. 3.19 and put him into the garden of Eden to dresse it and to keepe it In thâ— sweate of thy face shalt thou eate bread till thou returne vnto the ground Eph. 4.28 Let him that stole steale no more but rather let him labour working with his hands the thing that is good that he may haue to giue to him that needâ—th 1. Cor. 7.20 Let euery man abide in the same calling wherein he was called study to be quiet and to doe your owne businesse and to worke with your one hands as we commaunded you that yee may walke honestly toward them that are without 1. Thess 4.11.12 2. Thess 3.10.11 12. Pro. 10 4. and 12.27 For euen when wee were with you this wee commaunded you that if any man would not worke neither should he eate The hand of the diligent maketh rich The substance of a diligent man is prâ—tious Prou. 13.11 Prou. 12.24 Hee that gathereth by labour shall encrease The hand of the diligent shall beare rule Seest thou a man diligent in his businesse hee shall stand before Kings Prou. 22.29 Psal 91.11 hee shall not stand before meane men Heâ— shall giue his Angels charge ouer thee to keepe thee in all thy wayes Now seeing God hath commaâ—nded vs to labour in a calling prescribed the bonds of our calling and promised his protection and blessing to our honesâ— endeauours it cannot bee questioned whether wee be allowed to liue by faith in the duties of our calling Fo the exercise of faith is as large as the word whereby it is guided and moderated that it neither exceed nor come hort Whe e a worke is commanded faith puts forth â—â—elâ—e in actioâ— where a promise is made it trusteth elâ—eth and wâ—iteth for accomplishment In euery honest state and cond tion of life there is vse of faith in both respects For laboâ—r is commanded and promise of blessing is made to them that worke according to the will and pleasure of God Moreouer God is hereby much glorified that wee commit our selues wholly vnto him labouring as he hath appointed and depending vpon his grace for good successe It
sincere milke of the Word that yee may grow thereby This is confirmed by the comparisons which are vsed to set forth the vse and profit of the word as it is resembled to the light raine deaw liuing water wine and milke By the titles which are giuen vnto it as it is called the word of this life the word of this saluation and by the passages of Scripture which testifie that the word is able to saue our soules And now Brethren I commend you to God and to the word of his grace which is able to build you vp and to giue you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified For after that in the wisdome of God 1. Cor. 1.21 1. Tim. 4.16 the world by wisdome knew not God it pleased God by the foolishnesse of preaching to saue them that belieue Take heed vnto thy selfe and vnto the doctrine continue in them for in doing this thou shalt both saue thy selfe and them that heare thee Iames 1.21 Wherefore lay apart all filthinesse and superfluitie of naughtinesse and receiue with meeknesse the engrafted word which is able to saue your soules This also is manifest of the Sacraments And Sacraments which be truly called a visible word because that which is spoken in the word to the eare is in visible signes represented to our eyes and sealed to our hearts that wee may bee the more assured of them to bee ours And were purposely ordained of God to helpe our weake faith that hauing his word and seale wee might be put out of doubt that wee shall as certainly bee made partakers of Christ himselfe and all his benefits as we are of the outward signes of his couenant What the Apostle saith of Circumcision that is true of Sacraments in generall Rom. 4.11 They are seales of the righteousnesse of faith or of the couenant of grace And for the better assurance of the belieuer that receiuing the outward signe as he ought hee shall be partaker of the thing signified very oft that which properly belongs to the thing sealed is giuen to the outward signe as that Baptisme saueth 1 Pet. 3.21 Acts 22.16 Col. 2.12 Rom. 6.3 that our sinnes are washed away in Baptisme and that wee are buried with Christ by Baptisme And the like of the Lords Supper when our Lord Iesus did ordaine it he speaking of the Bread said This is my Bodie Math. 26.26 28 and of the Wine This is my Bloud of the New Testament These promises are firme grounds whereupon the faithfull soule may build this affiance that by the sincere and conscionable vse of Gods holy Ordinances the Word and Sacraments he shall be made wise vnto saluation confirmed in faith strengthened in grace refreshed with ioy and comfort and perfected vnto euerlasting happinesse And the serious meditation and remembrance of these things is exceeding profitable to quicken and encourage vnto chearefull and constant attendance vpon God in his ordinances that so wee may in due season reape the sweet fruit thereof Prou. 8.34.35 Blessed is the man that heareth me watching daily at my gates waiting daily at the posts of my doores For who so findeth me findeth life and shall obtaine fauour of the Lord. Did Christians oft and earnestly breathe themselues in meditation on those great things that God offereth in the Gospell and his truth and faithfulnesse to make good whatsoeuer he hath spoken Did they set before them both the mercie of God in ordaining the Sacraments for the strengthening of their faith and his grace and faithfulnesse in bestowing vpon them freely that which hee offereth and sealeth vnto them in these outward seales Did they consider what he graciously promiseth in both and expect to be made partakers of them in the vse of those ordinances it would maruellously comfort and quicken to the diligent vse of all holy meanes ordained of God for our present comfort quickening and strengthening and for our euerlasting saluation It s necessarie to liue by faith in the vse of Gods Ordinances This faith is necessary for it auaileth not to liue vnder the Gospell and to be present at the administration of the Sacraments if they be not vsed in faith The word profiteth not Heb. 4.2 vnlesse it bee mingled with faith in them that heare it And the same may bee said of receiuing the Sacraments Faith is the eye the hand the mouth the stomacke of the soule by it wee see receiue feed vpon Christ Looke as at a feast though the Table be neuer so richly furnished yet if a man haue neither hand mouth nor stomacke he is not fed thereby so is it here Nor is it sufficient to haue faith but it must be exercised to receiue that grace which the word of God doth reach vs with the seale It is not the hauing but the new exercise of faith which maketh vs profitable hearers of the word worthy receiuers of the Sacrament Looke as a man may haue a hand and yet if when a thing is reached forth to him he doe not put it out nothing is receiued so we may haue the grace of faith and yet if when God reacheth vs the body and bloud of his Christ we doe not then awaken it to lay hold on the grace God offereth we shall goe away without receiuing it Or looke as at a feast though wee haue a mouth and there be plentifull prouision if we will not open it and take downe the sustenance before vs we shall rise emptie so though wee haue the mouth of faith yet if we doe not open it to God now offering to feed vs we shall not get a crume of grace The Acts of faith be these or the like The Acts of faith in the vse of Gods Ordinances First It teacheth to worship the true God purely to esteeme approue and exercise that worship and that alone which hee prescribeth for faith looketh to the reuealed will of God as the rule of all acceptable seruice and to the promises as the grounds of comfort and good successe It tenders vnto God what he requireth Esay 8.20 and looketh vnto God to receiue what he is pleased hath promised to giue But God will not accept that worship Deut. 12.32 Esay 29.13 Math. 15.9 Ier. 7.31 which he hath not appointed nor worke effectually by the diuices of men No pietie comfort or true deuotion is or can be stirred vp by humâ—ne traditions for as they are destitute of commandement for their rule so are they of promise that God will kindle or quicken by them any sparkle of knowledge faith inuocation thankfulnesse or other sauing motions of heart Secondly It delighteth greatly to behold the face of God â—n his sanctuarie Psal 102.4 1. Chron. 16.11 Psal 27.8 Psal 42.2 Psal 63.1.2 When thou saidest Seeke yee my face my heart said vnto thee Thy face Lord will I seeke When shall I come and appeare before God O God thou art my God early will
and rowse vp our selues to reioyce in him What can I desire more God the Father hath giuen his onely begotten Sonne to be my Sauiouâ— and I haue receiued and am betrothed vnto him a firme peace is concluded an euerlasting inherâ—tance is assured vnto mee I haue a good legacie bequeathed vnto me in the promises whereunto I sticke sealed vnto me in the SacrameÌ„t which I may produce as an euidence to stop the mouth of Satan if he shall contend and seeke to robbe mee of my priuiledges bestowed of grace If I bee hunger-starued in my selfe the bodie of Christ is true meate nourishing me to life eternall If thirstie and destitute of the sappe of grace the bloud of Christ is true drinke nourishing mee to life eternall Iohn 6.65 and eating his flesh and drinking his bloud he dwelleth in me and I in him Thus we must quicken our hearts to reioyce in beliefe of the promises made and sealed waiting vpon God till he be pleased to giue the sence and comfort of it CHAP. XII The faithfull are bound and it is behouefull for them to belieue the threatnings GOd is aswell iust as mercifull faithfull and true as well in his threats as in his promises and therefore equally to be belieued in both so farre as in his word he hath assured vs of both He who is certaine of his saluation knoweth assuredly he should be damned if he should goe on in sinne without repentance and shall tast of much bitternesse if he grow indulgent to his corruptions It is as sure that God will condemne the wicked and impenitent as that hee will saue the righteous and repentant 1. Cor. 9.27 If Paul beate not downe his body and bring it into subiection he shall bee as drosse and refuse If the righteous forsake his righteousnesse and commit wickednesse Ezek. 18.24.26 or be a worker of iniquity all his former righteousnesse shall be forgotten The godly man is not slauishly to feare falling away or running into destruction but wisely to belieue the threatnings to preuent falling into sinne and so into condemnation The subiect who feareth the punishment of the law and keepeth himselfe innocent taketh a wise couâ—se for his owne securitie Euery part of Scripture is Gods word of certaine and and vndoubted truth which cannot be gaine-said written for the benefit and profit of them who shall be heires of saluation But the threatnings are part of the word of God Rom. 15.4 Whatsoeuer things were written afore-time euen as well examples of iudgement inflicted vpon transgressours and threatenings denounced against them that shall offend as promises of mercie to allure vnto obedience were written for our learning and instructon 1. Cor. 10.6 In the state of innocencie there was vse of threatenings so is there in the state of grace As a meanes to keep our first parents from sinne Gen. 2.17 Iob 31.21.23 the Lord denounced death against them if they should eate of the forbidden fruite Iob professeth he durst not lift vp his hand against the Fatherlesse for destruction from God was a terrour vnto him So Dauid My flesh trembleth for feare of thee Psal 119.120 and I am affraid of thy Iudgements The righteous man wisely considereth the house of the wicked Pro. 21.12 but God ouerthroweth the wicked for their wickednesse And sure it is expedient for vs that threatenings should be mingled with the promises of grace for so prone are we to flatter fauour our selues milder doctrine would grow colde vnles these spurrs were added The tarxtnesse of the threatening makes vs best tast the sweetnesse of promise Sowre and sweet make the best sauce promises and threatenings mingled fit our state and serue to keepe the heart in the best temper Wee grow ouerbold with God if the threatning doe not awe are soone deiected if the promise doe not support The Lord knoweth both necessarie to keepe vs in awe and therefore beginneth with promises to the intent we might follow him the more willingly but to driue forward when wee stoppe or grow remisse he addeth threatenings Heb. 12.28.29 Wherfore we receiuing a kingdome which cannot be moued let vs haue grace whereby we may serue God acceptably with reuerence and godly feare For our God is a consuming fire The acts of faith in respect of the threatenings be these The acts of faith in respect of the Threatnings First It worketh humblenesse of mind and heart for what the law threateneth the faithfull will freely acknowledge that they deserue and so arraigne themselues as guiltie of all miserie and death before the throne of grace whereby the pride and stubbornesse of nature is much abated Say wee not of him who hath beene once impleaded before the tribunall of an earthly Iudge as guiltie of felonie or treason he hath no reason to be stout What then will the arraignement of the soule worke when a man shal be drawne to acknowledge before God that he hath deserued to be cast into hell for his manifold offences and transgressions against God Secondly It bringeth forth awefulnesse reuerence and feare Psal 52.6 Act. 5.5 Psal 119.120 Ion. 1.16 1. Chron. 13.12 Hab. 3.16 The righteous also shall see and feare As the Childe quaketh when he heareth that his Father is angry with or doth correct a seruant so the heâ—rt and body of the faithfull tremble as oft as they consider the seueritie of Gods wrath against the wicked and vngâ—dly When I heard my belly trembled my lips quiuâ—red at the voyce rottennesse entred into my bones and I trembled in my selfe that I might rest in the day of trouble That is when the fame of thy diuine punishment and iudgement came to mine eaâ—es which thou hast decreed to inflict vpon thy people “ Pro. 29 27.30 Psal 40.8 my belly that is my heart and bowels moueâ— for griefe and feare Thus Noah hearing of Gods iust wrath against the sinfull world and of his purpose to ouerthrow all liuing flesh by water Heb. 11.7 was moued with great feare and reuerence at this strange dreadfull mightie work of God and from the view of this his great iust iudgement his faith made him arise to a more earnest consideration of the glorious Maiesty of the Almâ—ghty And this is the effect of iudgement executed by men according to the direction of Gods word And all Israel shall heare and feare Deut. 13.11 and 17.13 and 19 26. Ier. 10.7 and shall doe no more any such wickednesse True faith then worketh an holy feare and reuerent awe of God in respect of his iudgements Who would not feare thee O King of nations for to thee doth it appertaine Psal 76.7 Thou euen thou art to bee feared and who may stand in thy sight when once thou art angry The godly mans assurance of Gods fauour will stand well with reuerence of his Maiestie and feare of temporall afflictions spirituall desertions and the torments of hell not
that be necessary but the act and exercise of faith is required § 5. p. 6. 7 CHAP. II. WHat Iustifying faith is § 1. p. 7 God the Father in his Sonne Iesus Christ by the holy Spirit is the authour of faith § 2 p 7. 8 Faith is a gift in a speciall manner most free and profitable ibid. How we are said to receiue the Holy Ghost by Faith ibid. How the Spirit is obtained by prayer p. 9 Faith is imperfect though a worke of the Spirit § 3. p. 9 Faith is a powerfull worke of God ibid. How God produceth faith § 4. p. 10. 11 The increase of faith is of God p. 12 Faith is the gift of God and the act of Man § 5. p. 12 Faith is wrought by the Word § 6. p. 13 Encreased by prayer and vse of the Sacraments p. 14 Why all doe not belieue that heare the Word ibid. Though faith be the gift of God men must vse the meanes to obtaine it p. 14. 15 CHAP. III. FAith presupposeth knowledge Chap. 3. § 1. p. 16 17 It captiuates our vnderstanding vnto the obedience of Christ but is not ignorant of Christ p. 17. 18 This knowledge must be distinct sound certain p. 18. 19 In what respect faith may bee called implicite or vnfolded p. 19 Faith is an assent § 2. p. 19. 20 Beliefe hath reference to some vttered word or reuelation but may be sustained by other motiues and inducements p. 20 Faith is a firme assent yet sometimes accompanied with doubtings p. 21 Faith is an absolute and vnlimited assent and yet through ignorance and infirmitie a Christian may misbelieue many things without the danger of damnation p. 22. 23 Faith is an assent in a sort euident p. 23. 24 Faith also is an assent in some sort discursiue p. 24. 25 Faith is an affiance or confidence § 3. p. 25. 26. c. Confidence as it doth embrace Christ with a certaine affiance is the forme of faith as it begetteth in vs quietnesse of conscience and confidence of libertie it is an effect of faith p. 32 Confidence is opposed both to Doubting and Distrust p. 32 Faith is an obedientiall affiance § 4. p. 32. 33. 34 Faith is opposed not only to doubting and diffidence but to wauering double-mindednesse and disobedience p. 35 Affiance must be wel-rooted § 5. p. 35. 36 It must be sound and permanent p. 36. 37 Faith is an ouer-ruling affiance p. 37. 38 Of all graces faith is the most humble p. 38 Faith is a spirituall taste § 6. p. 38. 39 Faith admits many interruptions p. 39. 40 CHAP. IIII. LOue is not the life or soule of faith § 1. p. 40. 41 c. It is faith and not charitie that giues influence to all other graces euen to charitie it selfe ibid. The goodnesse of God cannot bee the obiect of our charitie but by being first the obiect of our faith ibid. Charitie is an instrument vnto faith for mouing and stirring abroad in the performance of all duties recommended vnto vs but the inward or essentiall forme of faith it is not pag. 42. 43. In what respects charitie doth excell faith and faith charitie § 2. p. 44. 45 How faith is perfected by workes p. 46. 47 Iustifying faith cannot be without loue § 3. p. 47. 48 How the acts of charitie are said to be of faith p. 48 Faith temporarie and iustifying differ in radication soueraignetie and working p. 51 The first and radicall vnion with Christ is made by faith only the secondarie vnion is by meanes of the affections p. 54 They that worke iniquitie haue no faith to belieue assuredly that they shall be saued p. 55 The faith of Deuils comprehends the fulnesse and perfection of that which the Romanists call Catholicke or Christian faith p. 57. 58 Faith alone iustifieth but that faith which iustifieth is not alone p. 59. 60 CHAP. V. What doctrines are called matters of faith § 1. p. 60 Iustifying faith is two wayes considered § 2. p. 61 According to the twofold consideration of iustifying faith the obiect of it is two-fold p. 61 True faith respecteth the whole Word of God p. 62 As the doctrine of Creation § 3. p. 63 Prouidence ibid. Mans misery by sinne ibid. Mysteries of godlinesse p. 64 The promises concerning Sanctification and things of this life § 4. p. 64. 65. 66 Why faith doth put forth it selfe to embrace whatsoeuer the Lord promiseth p. 64 It is very necessary to belieue the promises concerning Sanctification p. 65 It is necessary to belieue the temporall promises p. 66 Faith belieueth the threatnings § 5. p. 67 Beliefe of the threatnings is necessary p. 67. 68 Faith belieueth the Commandements § 6. p. 68. 69. 70 In particular practices the faithfull may faile p. 70. 71 The obedience of faith is vniforme entire and constant § 7. p. 71. 72 The faithfull soule may find it selfe more prone to one sinne then another but if right comparison bee made faith inciteth to hate all sinne one as well as another p. 72. 73 CHAP. VI. THe speciall obiect of iustifying faith are the free promises of mercy and forgiuenesse in Iesus Christ § 1 p. 73. 74 Abraham belieuing the promise of seed did apprehend that blessed seed which from the beginning had beene promised p. 74 Remission of sinnes doth presuppose the mercy of God p. 74 Beliefe of Gods power is not the act of faith iustifying as it iustifieth but the consideration of Gods power is a prop and stay to faith against manifold temptations p. 76 Christ is euery where in Scripture made the thing◠which faith embraceth to saluation p. 77. 78. 79 Faith in Gods speciall mercy frameth his Image in the Heart § 3. p. 81. 82 CHAP. VII IVstifying faith is a particular and certaine confidence § 1. p. 82. 83 The thirstie and burdened soule is inuited to come vnto Christ and commanded to belieue p. 83. 84 Iustifying faith is opposed to despaire so as to expell it it breeds confidence and boldnesse and receiueth Christ for the conueying of his benefits particularly vnto vs p. 84. 85. Faith is certaine in the euent not euer in sence § 2 p. 85. 86 Things are to vs according as wee conceiue them which is not euer answerable to the euidence of the thing in it selfe or to the certaintie in regard of euent p. 86. 87 A Belieuer who hath a sure beliefe doth not alwayes know that he so belieueth p. 87. 88 Faith as it iustifieth is a resting vpon Christ to obtaine pardon not an assured perswasion that our sinnes bee already pardoned and forgiuen § 3. p. 88. 89. 90 Before Iustification faith seeketh and receiueth the promise of forgiuenesse after Iustification it comfortably assureth of the blessing obtained p. 91. 92 Election is manifested by faith as by its effect but wee are iustified by faith as the instrument thereof § 4 p. 92 CHAP. VIII HOw faith assureth of saluation § 1. p. 94. 95 This assurance is such as is shaken
be borne p. 320 Wee stand in need to bee holpen against discouragements in affliction ibid. God correcteth 1. In great wisdome p. 321 2. Measure ibid. 3. For a moment p. 321. 322 4. In loue and tendernesse ibid. And that 1. to proue 2. To purge 3. To refine 4. To confirme grace p. 322. 323 He will deliuer the righteous out of trouble p. 323 Is tender ouer them in trouble p. 323. 324 And present for their helpe p. 324. 325 It is most necessary that we learne to liue by faith in afflictions p. 326 For 1. Faith is the ground of silent and quiet expectation of saluation ibid. 2. Faith in God is the only stay and support of the heart in trouble and affliction p. 326. 327 3. Faith is the shield of the soule whereby it is defended against all the fiery darts of the Deuill ibid. 4. Faith only supplies all our wants in affliction pag. 326. 327 5. Afflictions profit not if they bee not mixed with faith in them that beare them ibid. The godly are allowed to liue by faith in afflictions For 1. Godlinesse hath the promise of this life and that which is to come p. 327 2. The godly haue had this confidence in former times whose practice is both a token of our priuiledge and patterne of our dutie p. 328 3. God is hereby much glorified that wee relie vpon him as our rocke of defence ibid. 4. The Lord commandeth vs to waite vpon him in times of trouble ibid. 5. Confidence in God doth the more binde him as it were to doe vs good p. 328. 329 The acts of faith in respect of these promises 1. It looketh vnto God and acknowledgeth his hand in all afflictions whosoeuer be the instruments p. 329. 330 2. It teacheth that wee are in such distresses out of which none can help vs but the strong helper of Israel p. 330 This drawes the heart from carnall repose in meanes or friends and expels vexations and distracting cares ibid. 3. It wisely directeth vs to consider that the cause of all misery and sorrow is sinne p. 330. 331 4. Faith meekeneth the heart willingly to submit it selfe to the good pleasure of God and patiently to beare his correction p. 331 Faith comforteth the conscience and curbeth vnbridled passions ibid. The considerations whereby faith perswadeth vnto meeknesse be many strong and irresistible As 1. The desert of sinne which is farre greater then any thing we suffer p. 332 2. The hand that layeth the rod vpon our backe viz. God our most wise iust gracious and louing Father ibid. 3. That this Cup how bitter and wringing soeuer is a medicine to cure not a poyson to destroy ministred in great loue and tender compassion to driue out corruption confirme faith preserue from falling strengthen grace weane from the world and bring neerer vnto God p. 332. 333. 334 4. After serious humiliation faith bringeth tidings that God will looke downe from Heauen in mercy and send helpe in fittest season p. 335 5. Faith doth re-minde vs of our conformity with Christ in afflictions and of his partnership with vs therein p. 335. 336 6. Faith setteth before vs the infinite recompence of reward ibid. The first act of faith It teacheth wisdome to iudge aright of all afflictions p. 335. 336. 337 6. True and vnfained confidence will not keepe silence in the eares of the Lord nor cease to importune his aide c. p. 337. 338 7. It rayseth the heart being conscious of it weakenesse to rest vpon the Lord for strength who makes vs able to doe all things through his strengthening of vs. pag. 338. 339. 340 8. By faith the godly heart is drawne to vse all meanes of helpe that God in his prouidence doth afford but resteth quietly vpon Gods promises and assurance of his presence aboue all likelihoods and appearances p. 340. 341 This manner of dependance on the promises which faith worketh is absolute without limitation of time measure of affliction or manner of deliuerance p. 341. 342 What faith turneth it selfe to meditate vpon for support in this case p. 342. 343 9. Faith belieueth one contrary in another and out of the deepest distresses gathereth assurance of sweetest deliuerances p. 343. 344 10. It reioyceth in tribulations and triumpheth before the victory p. 345 We must liue by faith in the heauiest afflictions and of longest continuance p. 345. 346 The acts of faith in this case 1. It teacheth that many and strong afflictions of long continuance are no more then necessary p. 346. 347 2. Faith in the greatest extremities suggesteth that we are vnder the hand of God who correcteth in measure and for our profit who hath determined the time and weight of our afflictions and by his blessing will turne them to our good p. 347. 348 3. Faith setteth a man about this worke that is seriously to make inquiry into his heart and wayes deeply to humble himselfe before God and feruently to intreat mercy for sinne past wisdome to make vse of present misery and fauour to be set free p. 349. 350 4. Faith raiseth the heart to expect abundance of mercie from God and through prayer and supply of the Spirit to reape profit and taste comfort answerable to the sorrowes it hath felt and endured p. 350. 351 Liuing by faith in times of tryall and visitation doth fit and pâ—epare the heart to thankefulnesse when light shall shine from on high and that so much the more as our afflictions haue beene the sharper p. 351 In affliction faith seemeth to be most weake and corruption most stirring 1. Many doubtfull thoughts ascend in Christians hearts partly because they know not that they are allowed to liue by faith in an afflicted state partly because they iudge amisse of their afflictions p. 351. 352 2. Gods physicke whilst it is driuing out corruption makes vs feele and complaine of it more then euer p. 352 3. In afflictions faith is tryed the sweetnesse of it is not so much felt ibid. 4. It is the office of faith to receiue the potion and further the kindly working of it which cannot be done vnlesse it stirre vp godly sorrow and wrestle painfully to driue out corruption p. 352. 353 Helpes to stirre vp faith in deepe afflictions when all meanes faile 1. Wee must lay open our sorrowes before the Lord and powre out our complaint before him pag. 353. 354 2. Confesse our sinnes with hatred and godly sorrow ibid. 3. Take vp our hearts for halting through vnbeliefe and call vpon them to rest in the promise of diuine aide assistance and deliuerance 354. 355 4. Importune the Lord and direct our supplications before him p. 355. 356 5. Quicken our resolution to trust in the Lord at all times euen when all refuge faileth p. 356 CHAP. VIII GOd hath made many promises of earthly blessings p. 357 In speciall the Lord promiseth length of dayes health strength wealth fauour peace joy good successe safety good Name and all these
God will prouide for vs in this life raise vp our bodies vnto life at the last day of Iudgement and bestow vpon vs that euerlasting kingdome and inheritance which he hath prepared p. 424. 425. 426 2. It is a seale of our dutie promised 1. It is a spurre to repentance and mortification p. 426 2. It is a prouocation vnto faith and a pledge thereof p. 426. 427 3. It is an incitement vnto new obedience a pledge thereof p. 427. 428 4. It is a pledge and pawne of loue and vnitie pag. 428 The new exercise of faith is requird in the worthy receiuing of the Lords Supper ibid. The acts of faith in receiuing the Lords Supper 1. By it we discerne the Sacrament to be the holy Ordinance of God instituted for our speciall good and benefit sealing vnto vs the promises which God of his free mercy hath made in Iesus Christ p. 428. 429 2. By it wee see what the Lord doth offer vnto vs therein how excellent and pretious it is with what assurance it is freely tendered and may be receiued p. 429 3. It sharpeneth spirituall appetite and stirreth vp hungring and thirsting after Christ and his benefits ibid. 4. It earnestly contendeth for mercy confessing sin with griefe and hatred c. ibid. 5. By faith we receiue Christ offering himselfe freely to be contracted vnto vs. p. 429. 430 6. By faith we resigne vp our selues vnto Iesus Christ and willingly yeeld soule and body vnto him p. 430 7. Faith feedeth vpon Christ and sucketh vigour from him ibid. 8. Faith assureth of that spirituall contract which hath passed betwixt Christ and the Christian soule and is sealed in the Sacrament p. 430. 431 9. It stirreth vp ioy and thankefulnesse with serious remembrance of the manifold blessings which in Christ Iesus are vouchsafed p. 431. 432 Meanes to stir vp our selues to receiue the Lord Supper in faith 1. We must bewaile our vnbeliefe dulnesse earthly-mindednesse the distemper of our spirituall taste c. ibid. 2. Consider how freely the Lord doth tender Christ to be receiued in his Word and Sacrament ibid. 3. Weigh and consider the blessed state and condition of them who be reconciled vnto God c. p. 433 4. Hauing troth-plighted our selues to Iesus Christ vnfainedly we must awaken and rowse vp our soules to reioyce in him ibid. CHAP. XII THe faithfull are bound and it is behouefull for them to belieue the threatnings p. 434 The godly man is not slauishly to feare falling away or running into destruction but wisely to belieue the threatnings to preuent falling into sinne and so into condemnation ibid. 1. The threatnings are part of the Word of God ibid. 2. In the state of innocencie there was vse of threatnings so is there in the state of grace p. 434. 435 3. Promises and threatnings mingled fit our state and serue to keep the heart in the best temper ibid. The acts of faith in respect of the threatnings 1. It worketh humblenesse of mind and heart p. 435 2. It bringeth forth awfulnesse reuerence and feare p. 436 3. It stirreth vp continuall watchfulnesse to shunne whatsoeuer might breed danger or procure Gods displeasure p. 437 4. The threatnings mingled with faith cause sorrowfull melting or relenting of heart for sinne committed ibid. 5. When we see by faith from what miseries wee are deliuered of the free grace and mercie of God our hearts are enlarged in prayse thanksgiuing p. 437. 438 This life of faith is most excellent and comfortable for 1. By faith we are directed to seeke and follow after Christ till wee come to be assured that he dwelleth in vs as the fountaine of life and that in him we are deliuered from the guilt and punishment of all our sins p. 438 2. By this faith wee may come to sound rest and holy securitie about our saluation from time to time ibid. 3. If God lead vs into the darke by this faith we are enabled to hold him by the hand ibid. 4. Hereby the rage of sin is weakened and we haue grace to walke in newnesse of life and all the parts of it with ioy and chearefulnesse p. 439 5. By it we walke in our callings chearefully honestly painfully c. ibid. 6. This faith teacheth vs to pray at all times as our necessities require ibid. 7. If the affliction be very grieuous and of long continuance faith doth neither quaile nor cease to seeke helpe p. 439. 440 8. The life of faith shall end in ioy and comfort p. 440 9. He that hath learned to liue by faith shall also die in faith ibid. FINIS Errata PAge 3. l. 8. r. profession of faith p. 9. l. 23. more r. mere p. 22. l. 34 eased r. saued p. 44. l. 24. r. grace for p. 61. l. 1. r. distinction p. 67. l. 9. r faith receiueth p. 73. l. 26. l. 27. insert the more sincerely it worketh p. 75. l. 4 dele for p. 76. l. 30. r. confirmed p. 87. l. 36. dele themselues p. 91. l. 17. dele the p 92. l. 26. r. change p. 94. l. 3. r assured p. 96. l. 4 r. arise not l 26. r. with contrary effects p. 97 l 14. r. wauer as p. 104. l 24. r. they may be p. 116. l. 28. verde r. weede p. 118. l. 18. before thinke del I. p. 120. l. 4. liue r. lie p. 128. l. 11. r. faith yeeldeth p. 136. l. 13. r. this resting l. 36. r. possession of p. 143. l. 21. r. and receiueth p. 144 l. 18. r. seate faith p. 156. l. 5. r. liue in l. 7. r. how the Lord p. 174. l 12 r good will p. 175. l. 31. for r. or p 196. l. 31. r. walke heauily p. 201. l. 2 r. enliues it p. 221. r. But when the p 223. l 1. r. with a 1 p. 248. l. 26. 27. r. so long as p. 251. l. 5. r. deriueth p. 253. l. 9 10. r. resisteth p 292 l. 5. but r. we 296. l. 11. r. frowardnesse l. 17. r. are poore p. 302. betwixt l. 34. 35. insert after also of no strength p. 307. l. 23. we r. he p. 309. l 19. r. what might hurt him p. 313. l. 21. r. set open p. 315. l. 2 r. couering sin p. 328. l. 28 r would be 329 l. 4. vp r. vpon p. 344. dele from delight l. 6. to in l. 7. p. 345. l. 2. 3 r. persecuters p. 348. l. 9. r. such miseries p. 374. l 28 r. drinke and not be satisfied p. 393. l. 25. r. the Lord God p. 417. l. 29. r. It giueth p. 423. l. 14 r. the lauer p. 455. l. 10. r. tartnesse Errata in Margine PAge 4. de prae r. in prae p. 5. Acts 6. r. Acts 9. ibid r. preposition 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ibid. r. particle 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 p. 13. Heb. r. Hab. p. 34. Mat. r. Mal. p. 50 r. § Sanctus Augustinus p. 133. Iohn r. Jonah p. 139. r. 1. Pet. 1.5 p. 144. Iohn 24 r.
doubting the sense runneth plainly By faith wee haue so free and full accesse that wee doe not doubt but we shall obtaine what we aske § 4. Faith is a liuely obsequious affiance §. 4. Faith is an obedientiall affiance ioyned with an affection of pietie for as it makes plea for mercie so it thrusteth forward in obedience as it vniteth the heart to the promise so it glueth fast to the Commandements Psal 119.66 as Dauid saith Psal 119.66 Teach mee good iudgement and knowledge for I haue belieued thy Commandements By faith Noah moued with reuerence prepared the Arke for the sauing of his houshold Heb. 11.7 Gen. 12.1 Heb. 11.8 9. Gen 13.8 14.19 By faith Abraham left his Countrie and Kindred and forsooke all strange Religions and Idols to follow God By faith he contentedly abode in the land of Canaan as in a strange land c walking from place to place remained in tents and in euery place shewed his godly deuotion in making an Altar and calling vpon the Name of the Lord He kindly yeelded to his Nephew Lot for auoyding of contention charitably rescued him when he was taken prisoner Gen. 24.1 Gen. 1â— 23 20.27 carefully prouided a wife for his sonne Isaac feruently intreated for the Citie of Sodome and meekly prayed for him that had taken his wife He is honourably commended by God himselfe for his good instruction to his household children and posteritie Gen. 18.19 that they might walke in the wayes of the Lord But aboue all other hee approued his faith in this that vpon Gods Commandement he so readily offered vp his Sonne Isaac being after Ismaels expulsion his onely Sonne his beloued sonne and concerning whom hee had receiued the promise of life and saluation Heb. 11.17 and the establâ—shment of the Couenant Moses consent in this doctrine may be found where God pronounceth the Law of the ten Commandements teaching all duties of good workes to God and Man saying I am the Lord thy God Exod. 20.1 2. Rainol Apol. Thes Sect. 4. Zanch. de Redempt lib. 1. cap 12. de praecept he thereupon inferreth all their obedience to those Commandements For what is I am the Lord thy God but the couenant of faith to bee their God in the promise of Christ vpon this he requiring obedience in a godly life doth insinuate a Tilen Syntag. part 1. cap. 36. §. 18 19 28 29. Perkins golden Chaine cap. 20 Vrsin explic catech c. Deut. 6.12 that they which belieue God to bee their God must declare the same by obedience to his Commandements And therefore hee saith in another place Beware thou forget not the Lord thy God not keeping his Commandements which sheweth plainly that where disobedience is there is no faith for how can hee haue faith that forgetteth him in whom hee should belieue And this doth Moses ayme at when he saith Deut. 26.17 Thou hast auouched the Lord this day to be thy God and to walke in his wayes and to keepe his Statutes and his Commandements and his Iudgements and to hearken vnto his voice Whereby it appeares that vnto faith in couenanting with God this is an inseperable consequent that if wee embrace God by faith wee must and ought to follow his Commandements by our deeds and hee that doth not this latter bewrayeth that he hath not with a true heart and faith receiued the former To belieue is not only to giue credence to what the Scripture saith but to embrace what is said with an entire adherence of soule and to cleaue vnto it 2. Chron. 6.8 9 He that leaneth vpon the Lord his heart is vpright before him and he whose spirit cleaueth not stedfastly vnto the Lord is incredulous Therefore the Prophets which expound the Law Psal 78.9 in the person of God say thus A Sonne honoureth his Father and a Seruant his Master Mat. â— 6 If then I be a Father where is my honour and if I be a Master where is my feare Now we know that we are Sonnes no way but by faith Therefore this Prophet intendeth Gal. 3.26 that wee are not ioynâ—d to the Lord by faith either as his people children or seruants or that he is our God Father and Lord except our faith be vnfained and operatiue in honour and feare And another Prophet saith Psal 116.10 I belieued therefore I spake making it a most assured thing that a liuely faith will shew it selfe by outward deeds and namely profession Mercie and obedience are linked Christ is both a Lord and Sauiour and that faith which maketh a plea for mercie doth embrace the Commandements that which receiueth Christ as a Sauiour submitteth vnto him as a Soueraigne The strength of faith is equall to the promises of life and to the offices of pietie and loue or if there be any difference it is weakest to lay hold vpon the promises because they are most spirituall and furthest remoued from sence Confidence and relying vpon the mercie of God in Christ for saluation may bee lesse then care and abilitie to walke in obedience greater it cannot bee The word that in the Old Testament signifieth to seeke is by the seuentie translated Hope Isay 11.10 Rom. 15.12 which interpretation the Apostle alloweth whence it followeth that true confidence the mother of hope doth lift vp the heart to seeke the Lord in the way of his Commandements Moreouer saith is opposed not only to doubting diffidence and fainting but to wauering double-mindednesse halting disobedience stubburnnesse by reason of the necessarie connexion of those parts in both opposites Aske in faith and wauer not Jam. 1.6 A double-minded man is vnstable in all his wayes Through vnbeliefe thou art broken off Rom. 11.20 Heb. 3.12 and thou standest by faith Take heed brethren lest at any time there bee in you an euill heart and vnfaithfull to depart away from the liuing God They professe that they know God but by workes they denie him and are abhominable and disobedient or vnfaithfull Tit. 1.16 Iohn 3.36 Hee that belieueth in the Sonne hath euerlasting life but hee that belieueth or obeyeth not the Sonne shall not see life but the wrath of God abideth on him Now if incredulitie be not without diffidence disobedience true faith in God is not without confidence affection of obedience Hereunto may bee added that the manifold rebellions of Israel in the Wildernes are called vnbeliefe They belieued not in God Psal 78.22 32. and trusted not in his saluation For all this they sinned still and belieued not for his wondrous workes I will therefore put you in remembrance though yee once knew this how that the Lord hauing saued the people out of the land of Egypt Iude 5. afterward destroyed them that belieued not And beliefe in Christ inferreth the keeping of Gods Commandements whereunto the soule is inclined by faith And this is his Commandement 1. Iohn 3.23
was not mixed with faith in them that heard it where the doctrine of saluation is compared to wine which profiteth not vnlesse it be drunken that is receiued by faith and to belieue is spiritually to drinke the cup of saluation My soule thirsteth for thee saith Dauid Because thy louing kindnesse is better then life my lips shall prayse thee Psal 63.1 3 5. My soule shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatnesse c. To belieue in Christ Iohn 6 35 50 51 53 54. is to eate the flesh of the Sonne of man and to drinke his bloud Temporarie faith tasteth the word as men doe meate which they spit out againe receiueth it as a raw stomacke doth meate which it vomiteth vp and cannot hold Heb. 6.5 but it neuer feedeth kindly vpon the seuerall parts of the Word of life nor standeth affected towards it as a good stomacke doth to wholsome nourishment which is euident in that the weeds of earthly-mindednesse pride pleasure are not stocked vp by the rootes and where these abide the soule is not rightly tempered to apprehend the worth and qualitie or feed vpon the iuyce of heauenly mysteries But where true and liuely faith hath residence the soule is tempered to symbolize with diuine goodnes and standeth affected to the seuerall branches of the word as a good appetite doth to wholsome food of diuers qualities Faith admits many interruptions This is the nature of Iustifying faith but it admits many interruptions in acts or operations The Minde is sometimes darkened with mists arising from our naturall corruptions sometimes our passions stirre violently that we cannot doe as wee would nor continue our adherence vnto the Word of life as better for the time being then the prosecution of some sensuall good that for the present doth moue our affections and is stolne into them Naturall taste is distempered with sicke humours that abound in the bodie so is the spirituall with temptations from without and spirituall diseases from within Thus it is with the best oftentimes in this life whilest the minde is clouded with earthly thoughts and the heart assailed with carnall lusts which through weaknesse or neglect of watchfulnesse creepe vpon and disturbe them for a time but in their right temper and good plight they are much better they taste and feed vpon the Word of truth and the fauour of God is sweeter to them then all the delights of the sonnes of men We conclude then that Iustifying faith is a firme absolute vnlimited assent and wel-rooted al-seasoning soueraigne affiance whereby we rest vpon Christ for saluation embrace the mercies of God as better then life and feed vpon the Word with sweet refreshing and delight CHAP. IIII. Loue is not the soule of faith yet Iustifying Faith cannot be without Loue. § 1. FRom that which hath beene spoken of the nature of faith § 1. Loue is not the soule of Faith these two things doe plainly follow First That loue is not the life and soule of faith Secondly That Iustifying faith cannot be without loue As light and heate in the Sunne be inseparable so is faith and loue being knit together in a sure band by the Holy Ghost but loue cannot be the forme or soule of faith Liuelihood is the qualification Loue the companion Workes the fruites or effects of that faith that iustifieth but faith receiueth not it vertue life or efficacie from Charitie or any other vertue but from the Spirit of whom it is breathed into vs from whom also it receiueth that it may giue force to all other vertues and good works whereby they are vertues and good workes It is faith and not Charitie that giues influence to all other graces euen to Charitie it selfe as faith increaseth so other graces increase as faith decreaseth so other graces decrease the l fe of faith is our life the strength of faith is our strength if our faith be weâ—ke there is nothing else whereby wee can bee strong It is the essentiall forme or act of faith to accept of the promises of mercie Heb. 11.33 Gal. 3.14 22. Math. 8.13 Rom. 4.16 Rom. 3.27 whereby wee obtaine them also God hauing appointed that as a condition that the promise might be sure to all the seed to exclude boasting and to set forth his free grace and fauour But Charitie cannot serue for that vse because I cannot presume of that that is anothers vpon any conscience of my loue towards him but vpon confidence only of his loue towards me Be it that all things are common amongst friends before we can build the cupon we must haue it resolued vnto vs that God takes vs for his friends which can bee no otherwise but by faith only Faith must first receiue embrace Rom. 3.25 and hold the merit of the bloud of Christ before there can be any assurance of friendship betwixt God and vs. And although being now in friendship with Christ our loue may giue vs encouragement and comfort to make vse to our selues of that that is his yet it is not by our loue that wee take it to make vse thereof For the act of loue is done only by issue and passage from him that loueth to the thing that is loued as from vs to Christ and therefore it must be somewhat else whereby we receiue from Christ to vs. How should the goodnesse of God bee the obiect of our charitie but by being first the obiect of our faith For therefore fore doe we loue the goodnesse of God or loue God for his goodnesse towards vs because first wee belieue the same neither can we so loue but by belieuing For charitie consisting simply in affection apprehends nothing in God of it selfe but receiueth all from faith The forme is the beginning of actions and that that giueth influence and life to another thing must needes haue a prioritie to that that receiueth it But charitie is not the beginning of the actions of faith specially of the act of belieuing the act of loue hath no prioritie to beliefe but followes after it and is quickened by it For by faith we embrace the Word and receiue Christ when as charitie compelleth vs to loue him whom we know embrace and hold by faith Wee first taâ—â—â— our meate and then loue it faith is the spirituall taste of the soule which feedeth vpon the sweet and tender mercies of the Lord before the heart bee enflamed with loue Faith and loue are different gifts and graces and some effects are attributed to faith which agree not to charitie as faith is said to iustifie to purifie the heart to ouercome the world to receiue the promises Charitie may be called an accidentall forme of faith that is it is an instrument vnto it for mouing and stirring abroad in the performance of all duties recommended vnto vs both to God and Man but the life and soule of faith it is not or the inward and essentiall forme whereby it hath life and being
with all benefits past and to come which it pleaseth God to bestow vpon his people in Iesus Christ are the matter about which faith is exercised but as it iustifieth Christ is the full and adequate obiect of beliefe as our reasonable soule doth see in the eye heare in the eare digest in the stomake but doth not reason as it doth these things but onely as it conceiueth and discourseth within vs. The Obiect of Iustifying faith two-folde 1. Generall So that according to the twofold consideration of iustifying faith the obiect of it is twofold Generall and Speciall 1. The Generall obiect is the whole truth of God reuealed vnto vs in his word containing all Histories Doctrines Commaunds Threatnings promises of what kinde soeuer True faith respecteth the whole word of God True faith respects all this and onely this Only this because diuine reuelations only be of certaine and infallible truth which cannot deceiue and whereunto men can safely giue vnlimitted and absolute credite All this because euery parte of diuine inspired truth is worthy of all Beliefe and reuerence and so there is nothing contained in Scriptures threatning promise precept admonition exhortation prophesie or historie which falls not in some degree or other within the compasse of sauing Faith God who cannot lie hath propounded to men for truth and to be belieued whatsoeuer is deliuered in Scriptures and so it is a matter of faith but so farre forth only as it is intended to be held for true by the holy Ghost the Authour of the Scripture There is no doubt to be made but whatsoeuer is registred in the Historicall Bookes of holy Scripture by way of report is to bee taken for true in respect of storie that wee may not doubt whether those things were done or said which are there reported to be done or said But in these bookes wee haue some worthy speeches of godly men and some leud and blasphemous words of profane and wretched men The former are to be acknowledged to bee for the truth of God euery way the later must be acknowledged to be truely reported As for example it is true that Iacob vttered those prophesies of the twelue Patriarks his sonnes Gen. 44.1.2 and it is also true that those prophesies of his were the very truth of God It is as true that Rabshaketh deliuered those blasphemous threatnings against the Lord and his people 1. Reg. 18.30 and 19.5.6 but it is not true that those words came from God as Iacobs did so Iacobs were to bee taken as euery way true truely related and the truth of God Rabshakeths onely as truely reported from his mouth but in themselues blasphemous § 3. Thus faith yeeldeth firme and absolute assent to all diuine historie §. 3. 1. The historicall part as the doctrine of the as containing a certaine and sure relation of those things whereof they intreate and to whatsoeuer came from God as euery way true and to bee receiued nor doth it barely assent to the thing spoken as true but moueth and stirreth affections according as the nature of the thing belieued should and ought to worke Through faith wee vnderstand that the worlds were framed by the word of God not barely giuing credit to Moses relation touching the creation of the world but looking vnto the wisedome goodnesse and power of God whereby the heart is moued to feare reuerence and submission That faith Creation Heb. 11.3 which is deepely fastened in the heart and beholdeth the true God the creatour and Gouernour of all things as his power bountie and vnderstanding shineth in his workes that saith inciteth to humilitie reuerence loue and worship of God Through faith wee vnderstand that God hath protected and preserued and blessed his people from time to time Prouidence afflicted them when they went astray deliuered them out of the hands of their persecutors when they humbled themselues and sought vnto him inclined the hearts of their enemies to shew them fauour confounded those that rose vp against them and mercifully performed all his promises in the fittest season and where this firme beliefe is planted it begetteth a constant and well-aduised resolution to draw neere to God and cleaue to him in all conditions prosperitie and and aduersitie sickenes and health freedome and trouble when religion is fauoured and when it is persecuted because saluation is of the Lord Psal 73 24 27. he will guide his people by counsell and afterward receiue them to glorie but they that are farre from God shall perish they that goe a whoring from him shall be destroyed Mans miserie by sinne What the Scripture teacheth of the miserie of all men by sinne the vanitie of Minde and corruption of nature that faith receiueth and thence followeth selfe-deniall and renunciation of all trust in worldly meanes The H gh and profound mysteries of godlinesse Misteries of godlinesse which the naturall man perceiueth not accounteth foolishenes faith imbraceth with admiration ioy delight and affection answereable to the nature of the doctrine into which we are deliuerd Beliefe of Gods power wisedome grace loue and mercie manifested in Iesus Christ doth frame the image of God or Christ in our mindes and proposeth it as a viâ—ible patterne for our imitation in all our workes thoughts and resolutions and stirreth vp to workes of pietie iustice mercie long suffering and the like § 4. Besides â—he promise of forgiuenesse of sinnes in and through the bloud of Christ §. 4. 2 The promises concerning there be many other pretious and rich promises spirituall and temporall concerning this and the life to come all which as proceeding from the same fountaine of truth faith doth rest vpon and imbrace and that so much the faster as the promises be more excellent There is a mutuall relation betwixt God promising any good blessing in Christ and the fai hfull soule putting forth it selfe to imbrace grace offeâ—ed For faith hath not only eyes by which it doth see the good promised but hands wherewith it doth lay hold vpon the good things bestowed and the more excellent the good which is reached vnto vs in the word of promise is the closer doth faith sticke vnto it the stronger doth it hold it Men are credulous in thingâ— that may concerne them in their name goods or life and the more weightie the matter the more earnest they be in seeking resolution and the stronger hope or feare it begetteth in them 2. Cor. 1.20 All the promises of God be yea and Amen sure in themselues certaine to the belieuer and therefore hee cannot but receiue them with closer and stronger repose and adherence the more he doth apprehend their goodnesse and worth Amongst the greate and more principall promises those are to bee reckoned Sanctification which God hath made concerning our Sanctification by his holy Spirit that hee will inable them that belieue to bring forth fruits of amendment and perfect the good worke
Peter and the rest of the Apostles for he made answere for them all Math. 16.16 Ioh 6 68. Belar de Iustif l. 1. chap. 8. as the question was propounded to them all was no more in words but of Christs office Thou art Christ and his nature The sonne of the liuing God But shall wee thinke the faith of the Apostles to bâ—e nothing but a bare assent of Minde to that which they professed of Christ Thâ—n shall we make the Deuill himselfe to be as good and true a belieuer as the Apostles for he professed as much O Iesus of Nazaret Mar. 1.24 Luke 4.34 I know who thou art c. Noe doubt the Apostles rested vpon Christ for saluation and belieued in him to bee that to their soules and for their vse and comfort which they belieued him to be The subiect matter of their faith in that point was that Iesus was the Christ the manner of belieuing was with the heart relying vpon him for saluation The faith of Abraham was not a bare assent giuen to the promise of God but a confidenec in the speciall mercie of God for hee rested vpon the pâ—omise not onely in regard of his posteritie but also in regard of Christ according to that which is saide In thy seede shall all nations of the earth be blessed which seede the Apostle teacheth to be Christ Gal. 3.16 and the blessing he interpreteth to bee redemption from the curse of the law and iustification by faith Gal. 3.8 Abraham then belieuing the remission of sinnes in and through Iesus Christ of necessitie it will follow that his faith was directed vnto and exercised about the speciall mercy of God in Iesus Christ How then doth the Apostle set out Abrahams full beliefe in this that he was assured that hee who had promised was able also to doe it Rom. 4.21 Bellarm. vbi supra Rhem. annot in Rom. 4.14 Sect. 10. Not because Abrahams faith did iustifie him as he did belieue the power of God but because his iustifying faith which was fixed vpon the gracious promise did sustaine it selfe by the consideration of Gods power in time of tryall betweene the promise and the execution Abraham had a promise of seed but the execution is deserrod whereupon his faith is assailed thus Abraham thy body is dead thy wife hopelesse that way which things foiled Sarah for a time Now when Abrahams faith on the promises is thus set vpon Rom. 4 2â— against these arguments of vnbeliefe faith opposeth the alsufficient power of God and sustaineth it selfe with this consideration God is able As another time when he was tempted to offer vp his sonne in sacrifice he verily belieued he should receiue him againe Heb. 11.19 because God was able to raise him vp againe Beliefe of Gods power is not the act of iustifying faith as it iustifies but the consideration of Gods power is a prop and stay to faith against manifold temptations And so wee shall finde the Almightie power of God often aledged to confirme the weake and wauering heart As for Sarahs laughing thinking it impossible to haue a childe the Lord saide to Abraham Gen. 8.14 Is any thing hard or impossible to God And againe to Moses obiecting whether all the fish in the sea should bee gathered for food for Israel in the wildernesse The Lord answered Is the Lords hand waxed short Num. 11.23 thou shalt see whether my word shall come to passe or not And to the virgin Mary desiring to bee further conformed touching the promise of God the Angell makes answer Luk. 1.37 with God nothing is impossible As for the faith of the Centurion so much commended by our Sâ—uiour Christ Luk. 7.9 it might bee a steppe or meane by which he wâ—s raised of God to a true faith for iustification by the Messias or it may bee it was some effect of a iustifying faith but in it selfe as he did onely belieue the power of Christ to heale his seruant it did not iustifie Our Aduersaries themselues will not say that naked assent to this truth that Christ by his bare word was of power to cure his seruant absent is sufficient to iustification which yet is the substance of his confessiion If they answer that the profession of his faith is here mentioned according to the present occasion They must withall confesse it followeth not that because none other act of his faith is here expressed therefore there was nothing further in his faith vnto iustification before God Surely if hee be belieued to saluation he belieued somewhat else that made him to belieue what is here noted he belieued some what else that made him to say Luke 7.6 Lord I am not worthy that thou should'st enter vnder my roofe Christ is euery where made the thing which faith embraceth to saluation and whom it doth looke vnto and respect as it doth make vs righteous in the sight of God God so loued the world Iohn 3.16 that he gaue his onely begotten sonne that whosoeuer belieueth in him should not perish but haue euerlasting life Iohn 11.25 I am the resurrection and the life he that belieueth in me though he were dead yet shall he liue And by him all that belieue Act. 13.39 are iustified from all things from which yee could not be iustified by the law of Moses Belieue on the Lord Iesus Christ Act. 16.31 and thou shalt be saued and thy house That they may receiue forgiuenesse of sinnes and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in mee Act. 26.18 Being iustified freely by his grace through the redemption which is in Iesus Christ whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his bloud for the remission of sinnes that are past through the forbearance of God Rom. 3.25.26 Eph. 1.15 Act. 15.11 Iohn 1.12 Gal. 3.26 It is with vs as with malefactors the kings pardon onely receiued doth acquit them and restore them to libertie and Gods mercie in Christ couering sinne receiued by a liuely faith doth set vs free from feare of damnation It is true that iustifying faith doth giue assent to euery article of faith and cleaue to euery Commandement but it obtaineth remission of sinnes as it receiueth Gods pardon in Christ To him giue all the Prophets witnesse that through his Name Acts 10.43 whosoeuer belieueth in him shall receiue remission of sinnes Righteousnesse is eueâ—y where tied vnto faith euen to faith in Christ whom only it doth and can looke vnâ—o as it iustifieth I count all things but losse Rom. 3.22 10.4 Phil. 3.8 9. for the excellent knowledge sake of Christ Iesus my Lord for whom I haue counted all things losse and doe iudge them to bee dung that I might winne Christ And might bee found in him that is not hauing mine owne righteousnesse which is of the Law but that which is through the faith of Christ the
righteousnesse which is of God through faith For looke as nothing in a poore man can make him rich further then it doth get riches into his possession so nothing in vs sinners can make vs righteous to life further then it doth lay hold on such a righteousnesse which can take away sinne and make vâ— righteous to the receiuing of life eternall Faiâ—h is câ—lled the faith of Christ Gal. 2.16 because Christ is he whom faith doth apprehend and receiue to righteousnesse and life according to that of the Euangelist Iohn â— 36 1. John 3.12 13 He that belieueth on the Sonne of God hath life euerlasting That is the principall obiect of faith for which embraced and receiued by faith eternall life is giuen from grace Ioh. 6 47. 17.3 But eternall life is giuen of grace for Christ embraced or rested vpon by Faith a Ro. 10.10 11. Rom. â— 9 1. Cor. 15.3 To belieue Christ dead and risen as the Apostles taught him is true beliefe but that is not barely to belieue the historie of his Death and Resurrection but the fruits and benefits thereof and that wiâ—h the affiance It is so to belieue the Death and Resurrrection of Christ as thereby to looke for forgiuenesse of sinnes which is to put our trust in the speciall mercie of God through Iesus Christ This is plaine by the words of Martha for when Christ asked her Iohn 11.26 27. Doest thou belieue this that whosoeuer belieueth on me shall not die euerlastingly She answereth yea Lord I belieue that thou art Christ that is I cannot doubt but that those that cleaue to thee shall haue life euerlasting teaching that these confessions imply an affiance and trust of all good through him The Euâ—uch his profession was Acts 8.38 I belieue that Iesus Christ is the Sonne of God but the faith of this Eunuch waâ— a particular confidence of heart whereby he embraced Christ his Sauiour and belieued on him for his particular benefit and comfort Nathanael professed of Christ Iohn 1.49 50. that hee was the King of Israel that he was the sonne of God and so much in generall the Deuilâ— belieue and know Marke 5.7 Luke 8.28 was Nathanaels faith nothing but a bare perswasion that Christ was the Sonne of God yet it was a perswasion ioyned with affiance for he rested vpon him and so belieueâ— the promise of mercie in him God hath raised vp Christ to bee a Prince and Sauiour to giue repentance to Israel Acts â— 21 Rom. 8.34 and forgiuenesse of sinnes and to belieue Christ a Prince and Sâ—uiour raised from the dead and set at the right hand of the Father doth imply trust and affiance in him for forgiuenesse of sinnes and life euerlasting through the grace of God § 2. It is obiected §. 2. that to belieue the power of God is Iustâ—fying faith for our Sauiour required no more of the blinde man Math. 9.27 28. then to belieue that hee was able to heale him And the Leper seemeth to doubt of his will Marke 1.40 Bellar. de Iustif lib. 1. cap. 8. but waâ— well perswaded of his power But it is one thing to looke vnto Christ for bodily health or to receiue a temporall blessing another to belieue in him to Iustification For the faith which Christ requires to Iustification is such a faith as doth acquite vs from our sinnes and doth procure vs righteousnesse But many were healed by our Sauiour that for ought can be proued were not acquited from their sinnes And if these blinâ—e men had only belieued that he was able to â—ure the malady of their eies notwithstanding this their faith their soules had beene vncured their sinnes vncouered Many that were cured of their bodily infirmities were also healed of their spirituall diseases not because they belieued his power to helpe them but because they relied vpon him as their only Sauiour And the testimonie it selfe sheweth that the blinde men belieued Christ to be the Messias in times past promised of the Father and now exhibited so that they might belieue to iustification Heb. 11.33 34 35. but their beliefe of his omnipotencie did not iustifie them The writer to the Hebrewes sheweth in diuers examples that by Iustifying faith some subdued Kingdomes other some stopt the mouthes of Lions certaine quenched the force of fire others escaped the edge of the sword c. All which things though temporall were atchieued by Iustifying faith which is the hand of the people of God to receiue good by but faith iustified not as it was occupied about or looked vnto these things but as it was carried to an higher obiect The healing of corporall diseases was a seale vnto vs Isay 53.4 Math. 8.17 that Christ is our deliuerer from sinne and death as the Scriptures testifie and our Aduersaries confesse and therefore in belieuing the mercie of God towardes them in healing of their diseases they might forthwith conceiue that of his free grace hee would be pleased to forgiue their sinnes which are the true causes of all our maladies Bellar. de Iustif lib. 1. cap. 9. It is againe obiected that in the Creed is contained the whole obiect of Iustifying faith But in it there is no mention of the speciall mercie of God In this obiection there is a two-fold mistaking for in the Creed is contained the obiect of faith which is belieued that is the summe of doctrine to be belieued to saluation is there explained But here we speake of the obiect of Iustifying faith by which we belieue The doctrine of faith is one thing the priuate act of the heart relying vpon the promises of mercie another Now when we enquire what is the obiect of Iustifying faith the question is not what is the summe of faith or of the articles to be belieued but what the faith of the heart in all these articles which it belieueth doth first and principally looke vnto rest vpon and receiue to saluation For when all Christians professe and historically belieue all the Articles of the Christian faith yet many are not iustified or saued because they belieue not as they ought whence it is euident that bâ—re assent to the Articles of Religion is not that faith which iustifie or sâ—ues but another of farre different nature is required if wee would bee pertakeâ—s of these blessings Againe verball mention of Gods speciall mercie there is not any in the Creed but really it is inâ—luded For to belieue in God is to depend vpon his mercie reaching to the pardon of our offences Ier. 31.33 Esay 25.9 33.22 To belieue in Christ is to relie vpon him as the authour of redemption reconciliation and peace with God which doth necessarily imply the speciall mercie of God And in the Creed we belieue the remission of sinnes which article cannot bee explained according to the doctrine of the Gospell without beliefe in the speciall mercie of God and confidence thereon
10. it hath this proposition concerning the present or time past To me belieuing in Christ my sinnes are forgâ—ued And thus the horned argument of the Iesuite Bellar. de Iustif lib. 1. cap 10. Sect. ratio secunda Idem de Eccl. lib. 4. cap. 11. §. Sectary nostri whereby he would proue the speciall mercie of God not to be the obiect of faith Iustifying and our doctrine in that point to b e grosse and absurd is easily vntied For thus he reasoneth Iustifying faith goeth before Iustification But faith in the speciall mercie of God followeth Iustification For hee that belieueth the pardon of his sinnes is either iust before or not iust if iust before then faith iustifyeâ—h not if vniust then belieuing that his sinnes bee pardoned he belieueth a lie Our answere is that speciall faith hath the sundrie acts but to this purpose specially two The first heartily to desire earnestly to thirst after D. Field of the Ch lib. 3. cap. 44 Bolton of walking with God pag. 321. 322. To belieue that my sinne is now forgiuen in Christ is rather an act of experience in a Belieuer now iustified then that beliefe which is required to Iustification P. Bayn Helpe to true Happines part 2. qu. 9. humbly to intreate for acceptation and confidently to rest vpon the promise of free remission The other comfortably to assure and perswade that that is granted which was desired and receiued in promise Faith by her first act obtaineth and receiueth pardon and doth not finde vs iust when wee begin to belieue by her second act shee doth not actually iustifie but finding the thing done certifyeth and assureth vs of it So then speciall faith in her first act is before Iustification and procureth obtaineth and receiueth pardon but then shee hath not the perswasion of it as alreadie done in her second act shee presupposeth the thing done and alreadie obtained and so truely perswadeth the belieuer of it but procureth not the doing of it Before Iustification faith seeketh and receiueth the promise of forgiuenesse after Iustification it comfortably assureth of the blessing obtained in both it hath for it obiect the speciall mercie of God in Christ Faith receiueth Christ offered in the Gospell and it perswadeth and assureth of pardon in Christ receiued both these bee the acts of faith sometimes expressed a Iustifiing faith hath some acts as a cause disposing preparing and fittiâ—g vs to the receit of that gracious sauour whereby God doth iustifie vs and other as a susceptiue cause receiuing embracing and enioying the same In the former respect faith consists not in a perswasion that wee are the sons of God but in the latter Feild appendex to the fifth Booke second part in the definition of Iustifying faith but if we speake of faith as it iustifyeth it peculiarly embraceth Christ with his benefits as he is profered in the word and Sacrament For faith which is required to Iustification is not a perswasion or knowledge of things alreadie possessed but a confidâ—nce of things promised and vpon belieuing to bee obtained which in the order of causes not in time doth goe before remission of sinnes Who knoweth not that we must belieue that we might be iustified Iustified I say and not certified of Iustification by the benefite of faith The Scripture is cleare Belieue and thou shalt be saued God iustifieth the circumcision by faith and the vncircumcision through faith Doe not these and many the like passages shew that Iustification and not onely the sense and manifestation of Iustification alreadie obtained doth depend on faith § 4. It may bee said we are iustified before in Gods decree Indeed whom God doth iustifie them he decreed to iustifie from all eternitie but whereas election is manifested by faith as by its effect iustification doth depend vpon faith as its cause and wee are iustified by faith as the instrument thereof For election is an act immanent and eternall §. 3. Act. 16.31 Rom. 3.30 but iustification transient and in time inferring some change in the person iustified not physiciall but morall in respect of state §. 4. whereby it comes to passe that the person is in another condition and account then he was before In briefe the act of faith preswading of the pardon of sinne alreadie obtained by belieuing and glorying in the sense of Gods mercie must bee distinguished from that act of faith which iustifieth and is a leauing or staying vpon Christ to obtaine remission the priuiledge of grace and comfort which comes to the soule by belieuing must be distinguished from the condition of the couenant which is required on our parts before wee can obtaine pardon This is the rather to be noted Fishers answere to certaine articles because the maine cauils of the papists against our doctrine touchâ—ng particular confidence in Gods mercie and certainetie of saluation are grounded vpon this surmise that wee make that faith which is an assured and certaine perswasion of our particular election iustificâ—tion and saluation to be the sole cause to wit on Mans part of Iustification whereas Iustification it selfe must goe before the assurance of it and such persons onely can haue true assurance and certaintie of their Iust fication election and Saluation who doe vnfainedly belieue and know assuredly that they belieue as they ought And it makes much for the comfort of many faithfull people who commit their soules vnto Christ Iesus and depend vpon him and no other for saluation who yet are much perplexed as if they had no faith nor could doe ought pleasing vnto God because they want this certaine assurance of the remission of their sinnes whereas if they had learned what it is to belieue vnto Iustification and trust vnto the promise for pardon they might for the present take comfort in this that notwithstanding their feare they relie vpon Christ â—nd commit their soules vnto God as to their faithfull Redeemer and might with more ease and speed grow vp vnto the desired comfort and assurance when they should distinctly perceiue and discerne the groundâ— of faith and assurance by what steps and degrees they must clime from the one vnto the other CHAP. VIII By faith a true belieuer may bee certaine and infallibly assuredly of the remission of his sinnes and eternall saluation §. 1. How Faith assureth of saluation § 1. IT is a Principle common amongst our Aduersaries that eueâ—y conclusion issuâ—ng from one proposition reuealed expressely in Scripture another clearely and certainely knowne otherwise and by euident and good consequent added vnto it b longs to faith and is belieued by no other habit then of faith As for example All the dead shall rise Peter is dead therefore Peter shall rise The conclusion is Theologicall and belongs to faith though it be not expressely written that Peter is dead or that he shall rise againe So it is in this present matter All that belieue shâ—ll bee saued this proposition is
belieued as out of the Word of God which is not found in the Word of God expressely Bellar. de Iustif l. 3. cap. 8. §. 1. or by consequence but whatsoeuer is found there expresly or may euidently by direct consequence be deduced thence that may be belieued as out of the Word of God Now howsoeuer it be not said in so many syllables Peter Thomas Cornelius thy sinnes are remitted to thee belieuing yet euidently so much may be concluded out of those generall promises Euery man that belieueth shall haue eternall life for the vniuersall doth include it particular Therefore the messengers of the Lord of Host doe giue notice to their Congregations that the matter which they proclaime in the Name of the Lord doth concerne them and euery of them saying in effect Acts 13.26 3.26 2.38 2. Cor. 5.20 To you is the word of this saluation sent What they say to all men they say to euery man what to penitents to euery penitent what to Belieuers to euery Belieuer what to sinners and vngodly to euery sinner God gaue his Law to all Israel speaking to all as if hee had spoken namely and particularly to euery one Thou shalt haue no other Gods c. Exod. 20.1 2. May not ought not a man to inferre thence I must haue none other Gods c. The promise of the Gospell runnes thus If thou shalt confesse with thy mouth the Lord Iesus Rom. 10.9 and belieue in thy heart that God raised him from the dead thou shalâ— be saued Is not this spoken to euery man particularly May not hee as out of the Word inferre If I belieue I shall bee saued Our Sauiour Christ had said nothing namely to Paul and Silas as touching the Iailer that if hee did belieue he should be saued But out of that vniuersall Iohn 3.16 Act. 16.31 Whosoeuer belieueth shall bee saued they proclaime comfort to him in speciall Belieue thou and thou shalt be saued There is nothing found in Scripture expressely touching this or that mans resurrection in particular is it not then to bee belieued out of the Word The Scripture saith to him that belieueth Thou shalt inherit eternall life as much as it doth to any particular man now liuing Thou shalt rise againe Because our Sauiour said to the Apostles Iohn 20.23 Whosoeuer sinnes yee remit they are remitted our Aduersaries though falsly would collect that their Priests haue power to absolue a man from all his sinnes Doe they know assuredly that what was spoken to the Apostles was spoken also to their Priests though there bee no particular mention of them in the Gospell and will they not allow vs to inferre a particular from a generall Psalm 23.1 Iob. 19.25 Dauid could say The Lord is my shepheard Iob I know that my Redeemer liueth which they belieued out of the Word grounding themselues vpon the promises of mercie And wee now liuing by the same faith hauing the same pretious promises being led by the same Spirit may out of the word of life be assured that our sinnes are forgiuen and couered Moreouer euery faithfull soule in particular doth finde Psalm 103.3.4 heare and reade in the word Who forgiueth all thine iniquities and healeth all thine infirmities To euery faithfull soule in speciall the Lord saith Isay 43.25 Psalm 103.17 Mica 7.19 Ier. 31.34 Rom. 11.22 Eph. 5.10 Math. 19.17 I euen I am hee that blotteth out thine iniquities for mine owne sake and remember thy sinnes no more This hee speaketh to singular belieuers not to some persons only as it is euident in that the Scripture doth in vniuersall repeate the same thing What our Sauiour said to the young man If thou would'st enter into life keepe the Commaundements the papists teach that is spoken to all men and if a man fulfill that condition hee may belieue to be saued Looke how they know the words spoken to the young man so many hundred yeares past to be directed vnto them by the same rule may euery faithfull soule interest himselfe in all the gracious and louely speeches wherewith God from time to time hath comforted his people and take vnto himselfe those promises answers and assurances that God hath at any time made and giuen vnto them resoluing of all the rest that which in one case the Apostles exemplifyeth of that that was written of the Iustification of Abraham that those things were not written for them onely but for theÌ„ also who belieue as they had done Rom. 4.23 The word then speaketh in particular to them that belieue but can a Christian know be assured that he doth truly belieue Such as truly belieue may know they belieue as hee that hath a iewell in his hand may know that hee hath it Paul did know on whom he had belieued 2. Tim. 1.12 the poore man in the Gospell cryeth Lord I belieue Dauid saith I belieued Marke 9.24 Psal 116.10 2. Cor. 4.13 and therefore I spake Hezekiah prayeth Lord remember mee how I haue walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart Iohn concludeth thus Esay 38.3 4. 1. Iohn 3-24 Hereby wee know that he abideth in vs euen by the Spirit which he hath giuen vs. How could we say euery one we belieue if wee might not know it Can wee speake that truly whereof wee can haue no certaintie When I see one or trust to a mans word promising me this or that I know I see him trust to him and rest on him for that hee hath promised Shall I by faith see Christ the Sonne and rest on him and yet know no such thing 1. Iohn 3.19 1. Cor. 2.11 Carnall confidence may be discerned why then should it be impossible for a true Belieuer to know that hee doth belieue The Spirit of man discerneth what is in man he knoweth what is in himselfe though not euer the measure or quantitie thereof Hee that loueth his Brother knoweth the loue wherewith he loueth him and he that belieueth in God may know the faith wherewith he belieueth Many beguile themselues while they stand in opinion they doe belieue and belieue not at all What then Shall hee that belieueth vnfainedly be altogether vncertaine whether he belieue or no There is that boasteth when his soule hath naught yet men whom God hath blessed with abundance may know that they be rich Many are deceiued in matters of faith and true worship of God shall not a Christian then bee certaine of his Religion A man that dreameth of honoâ—r promotion plentie and abundance may liue in infamie and disgrace penurie and hunger and yet they that bee promoted to honour and liue in plentie may assuredly bee perswaded of what God hath giuen them Some mens senses are deluded shall euery man therefore bee in suspence of whatsoeuer hee seeth or heareth He that is falsly perswaded of his good estate and strong faith deceiueth his owne soule shall he therefore that
of our ransome yet it is also true that wee euery day deserue damnation and must entreate God for pardon that so wee may come to that assurance which the Lord hath enioyned vs to labour and seeke for Zech. 12.10 The Spirit that leadeth vs to Christ doth stirre vs vp with all earnestnesse and confidence to craue pardon and forgiuenesse of our sinnes These two confidence and prayer God hath ioyned together no man can or may put them asunder Our faith assureth vs not of forgiuenesse of sinnes without prayer but that God forgiueth vs when wee pray Nor is this heauenly pledge while dormant though truly dwelling in our soules immediately apt to iustifie Matters of faith be of diuers sorts Some fully acted and done alreadie and those we only belieue we doe not pray for them as the Creation of the World the Birth and Death and Resurrection of Christ and other such like Other-some are belieued as designed promised and in a sort conferred but not yet fully acted and effected to vs which we so belieue by faith as that still wee pray for them till they bee fully accomplished and effected Bellar. de Iustif lib. 3. cap. 11. Rhem. annot in Rom. 8.38 §. 8. Math. 9.2 The Papists confesse that Peter Paul and some other particular persons to whom our Sauiour said Thy sinnes are forgiuen thee were assured of the remission of their iniquities and yet they ceased not to pray Forgiue vs our trespasses Doe they not see then that prayer for pardon will stand well with assurance of remission And why doe they condemne that in vs which was well done by others §. 8. § 8. More distinctly wee continue daily to aske of God forgiuenesse of sinnes according to the direction and commaundement of our Sauiour Christ in sundry respects First because notwithstanding former assurance of pardon if we take our eye off Christ the remembrance and conscience of sinne must needs trouble and disquiet so that wee must still looke to Christ for forgiuenesse and faith lookes vnto him as a Petitioner Secondly we pray daily that wee may haue greater assurance and more comfortable feeling of Gods loue Our faith being weake giueth but weake assurance and therefore wee begge daily to bee setled and established more and more in the assurance of his fauour Thirdly we sinne euery day and therefore aske pardon daily because wee are to receiue actuall pardon from God continually both for our originall corruption which alwayes in this life abides with vs and for actuall sinnes which wee daily and hourely commit against the Maiestie of God Hee that once belieueth is thereby made a member of Christs mysticall body and so hath all his sinnes satisfied for by the death and sufferings of his Head Christ But yet it is the good pleasure of God that hee should daily bewaile his offences and craue pardon for them that he might receiue feele and be assured of the forgiuenes of his particular and daily infirmities Euen after the infusion of faith most perfect 1. Ioh. 1.8.9 Psal 32.3.4 2. Sam. 12.12.13 with Psal 51.1.2 c. faithfull repentance for sinnes committed is as absolutely necessarie to saluation as the first infusion was Fourthly God is not off and one hee plaies not fast and loose but whom once he iustifieth from sinne hee neuer remembreth sinne against them Neuerthelesse we must begge the continuance of his grace that his mercifull pardon may bee a gift without repenrance Faith is a suter to God for the accomplishment of his promises and because wee are assured of his vnchangeable loue we begge with greater affiance the continuance of his mercy prayer being nothing else but the streame or riuer of faith and an issue of the desire of that which ioyfully wee belieue 2. Sam. 7.15.27 1. Chron. 17.25 Dauid being certified that God would for euer stablish the kingdome in his house and posteritie forbeareth not to pray that it might bee so Our Sauiour Christ knew that his sheepe should neuer perish yet hee prayeth Holy Father keepe them in thy name Iohn 10.28 Iohn 17.11 Psal 16.10 Heb 5.7 Iohn 1â— 5 2. Tim 4.18 Hee prayeth also for deliuerance from death and glorification of both which he was fully assured Paul knew assuredly the Lord would deliuer him from euery euill worke yet without ceasing hee prayeth to bee deliuered from euill Assurance to speed is that which addeth great feruencie to prayer Fiftly albeit by faith in the promise of God we now rest assured of the remission of sinnes yet wee still pray forgiue vs our treaspasses that we may more fully and really possesse enioy what we belieue we already haue in Gods affection and doe in part enioy The remission of sinnes is by faith manifested to our conscience and in part we reape the comfort fruite and effect of it in this life but still we are clogged with sinne wee liue in miserie and sorrow in our selues wee are condemned wretches still wee are lyable to many temporall and spirituall chastisements and desertions for sinne and liue in a sort as exiles and banished men from the immediate and cleare vision of God Therefore being still in case as if our sinnes were not completely pardoned sinne as yet abiding in vs and subiecting vs to the displeasure of God disliking it and to his Fatherly chastisement accompanying the same we pray for forgiuenes more absolute and intire euery day in the fruite effect and comfort of it True it is How iustification is full and intire that persons iustified haue full title vnto and right in that mercy of God which as it hath alreadie deliuered them from the dominion and condemnation of sinne so it will in the end wholly free them from all remainders of sinne and those chastisements afflictions and miseries wherewith they aâ—e exercised in this life and in this respect the remission of their sinnes is full and perfect but so long as they liue in this vale of teares sinne hath it abiding in them and they are subiect to many calamities by reason of sinne from which they heartily desire and pray to be deliuered Sixtly we haue the grant of pardon sealed in our consciences and possesse it priuately in part but as yet the Iudge hath not solemnely pronounced his sentence of absolution nor set vs in full and reall possession of absolute compleate intire acquittance remission This therefore we expect and pray for which will not be till the time of refreshing come Acts 3.19 So long as we walke by faith and not by sight we still pray for the sight of that as touching which we haue now but the comfort of faith and hope which is in part and imperfect By faith we know that we are redeemed both in soule and body Rom. 8.23 yet still we sigh in our selues waiting for the adoption euen the redemption of our bodies Our aduersaries obiect againe that by praying that Christs merits may be made
ours in particular we greatly abase them As though the prophet Dauid did abase God in making him his in particular saying Psalm 18.1.2 The Lord is my rock and my fortresse my God and my strength my sheild the horne of my saluation and my refuge The Lord is my sheepeheard Psalm 23.1 I shall not want which agreeth sweetely with the voyce of the faithfull He is our God and hee will saue vs Isay 25.9 Isay 33.22 Iob 34.36 Hee is our Lord not onely by right of soueraignetie but of loue and affection and he will saue vs. As though Elihu did abase God in calling him My Father or Thomas did did abase our Sauiour Christ in calling him Iohn 20.28 My Lord and my God or Paul when he glorieth and triumpheth in Christ after this manner Gal. 2.20 Phil. 1.3 who loued me and gaue himselfe for mee viz in a speciall and peculiar manner and not onely as hee loued Esau Iudas and other reprobates Wee doe no iniurie to God to make him ours in particular because hee hath said Ier. 31.32.33 and 32.38 and 30.22 as to Abraham so to euery one of the seede of Abraham I will be thy God Wee doe no iniurie because we doe not thereby make him our peculiar but leaue him the same to others that hee is to vs as euery man enioyeth the light of the Sunne to his owne vse without the impeachment thereof to the vse of any other man A third reason to confirme that a Christian belieuer may be assured of the pardon of his sinnes is this What the Apostles and other faithfull men were assured of by ordinarie faith that may all the faithfull bee assured of in like manner Heb. 2.11 2. Pet. 1.1 Rom. 8.38 1 Cor. 7.40 2. Tim. 4.8 1. Iohn 3.14 and 5.13 1. Cor. 4.4 Rhem. annot in Loc. Rom 8.35 Gal. ◠20 Phil. 1.19.20 2. Tim. 4.8 Rhem. annot in Rom. 8 31. For all the faithfull are Brethren and haue the like pretious faith and promises But the Apostles and other faithfull haue beene assured of there saluation by ordinarie faith Paul pronounceth the same certaintie of other mens saluation that hee doth of his owne and vpon grounds which are common to all the faithfull and Saints of God The Rhemists obiect that Paul durst not assure himselfe that hee was iustified saying I know nothing by my selfe yet am I not thereby iustified Did Paul speake this as doubting of his iustification by faith in Christ Of his particular assurance hee giues plentifull testimonie other where and our Aduersaries teach that hee was assured by reuelation The place makes strongly against Iustification by workes but against certaintie of saluation it makes nothing vnlesse wee shall make the Apostle contrarie to himselfe and our Aduersaries will say that a man may bee certaine by reuelation and yet altogether vncertaine The drift of the place is to shew that wee should not vainely bee lifted vp with the applause of men because they know vs not yea wee know not our selues throughly for God is greater then our consciences and doth espie many secret defaults in vs which we vpon diligent search cannot finde out in our owne hearts But did the Apostle protesting the innocencie of his conscience intend to intimate his doubtfulnesse of Minde touching his owne saluation In no sort 1. Ioh. 3.19.21 2. Cor. 1.12 for if our conscience accuse vs not then haue wee boldnesse This is our reioycing before God euen the testimonie of our conscience Nay this text of Scripture well weighed is sufficient to dash the vaine cauils of the papists For Paul was assured of his saluation and of the vprightnes of his heart and conscience though hee was ignorant of many secret infirmities which the most High did espie in him and of that measure of grace which hee had receiued What followeth hereupon Euen these two things which directly ouerthrowe the doctrine of our Aduersaries viz That hee who hath receiued grace from God may know the truth though not the measure of his faith and repentance And Ignorance of the exact multitude and greatnes of our offences is no barre or hinderance to the certaintie of saluation Who knowes the multitude of his sinnes Psal 1.19.12 Bellar. de Iustif lib. 3. cap. 5. Not one In this life a man can neuer sufficiently vnderstand the greatnes and multitude of his offences yet may hee bee assured of the remission of sinnes knowne and secret Because not the perfect knowledge of sinne is the cause of certaintie but the perfect mercie of God and the perfect merite of Christ to which wee must looke by faith § 9. If the end of the Scripture be that we should belieue 1. Iohn 5.10 11 12 13. Iohn 20.31 3.16 and belieuing should know that wee haue eternall life then euery Belieuer that knoweth himselfe to bee a Belieuer may be certaine of his saluation But the former is an vndoubted truth It is here obiected Whatsoeuer we belieue by faith is as infallible as the Word of God which assureth vs of it If then the common sort of the faithfull doe not belieue their saluation to be as infallible as Gods owne Word they are not by faith assured of it The answere is that the saluation of a Belieuer is as infallible in it selfe and in euent as is the Word of God which assureth him of it but alwayes it is not so in his apprehension and feeling The principles of faith are euer alike certaine but not apprehended of all with the same degree of certaintie For there are diuers degrees of faith little faith great faith full assurance of faith Math. 8.26 Math. 15.28 Rom. 4.21 euen as a weake eye and a strong eye And as a weake eye seeth but weakly and imperfectly and a strong eye seeth strongly and more fully discerneth the thing seene so a little faith belieueth faintly though truely greater faith belieueth more stedfastly full assurance of faith belieueth vnder hope euen against hope Rom. 4 18. The Disciples of Christ said vnto him We belieue and know that thou art Christ the Sonne of the liuing God Iohn 6.69 which in it selfe was infallibly true and yet they did not so infallibly apprehend it but that this faith was soone shaken and because they did not infallibly belieue it our Sauiour tels them that therefore hee forewarned them of his Death and Resurrection that when it was come to passe they might belieue Iohn 14.29 It was faith that made Peter vpon Christs words to step into the Sea to goe vnto him vpon the waters Math. 14.28 belieuing that he should be safe but yet hee belieued it not infallibly for when he began to sinke hee cried out for feare Master saue me Verse 30 31. Luke 24.21 The Disciples belieued in our Sauiour as the onely promised Messias and Redeemer of Israel but when they saw he was put to death they beganne to stagger at
cause them to walke in my Statutes And though a man be weake feâ—ble and imperfect yet finding and feeling the worke of sanctification begun in him hee may be assured that hee who hath wrought this beginning of life will goe forward therewith vnto the end Our Sauiour Christ said to the young man in the Gospel Phil. 1.6 Math. 19.17 If thou wilt enter into life keepe the Commandements But that young Pharisee was ignorant of the Law and his owne estate rested in externall workes of righteousnesse and when he came to Christ was destitute of the true knowledge of the Messias Iohn 17.3 without which our Aduersaries will confesse there is no eternall life and so from their owne grounds it is absurd to imagine that Christ by these words did simply intend to direct him a way for the obtaining of eternall life by his owne workes or merits We grant the Law to which our Sauiour referred that young man to bee the rule of obedience according to which people in couenant ought to walke building their workes of righteousnesse vpon faiâ—h as the foundation and obedience issuing from faith vnfained to bee the way to eternall blisse We acknowledge also that no man can be assured of remission of his sinnes who doth not walke before God in vprightnesse and integritie but this vpright vnfained obedience is imperfect the effect of that faith which iustifieth Vpright walking is necesrie but not the cause of Iustification Psal 119.1 2. 1.1 2. Psal 32.1 2. not the cause of Iustification When the Scripture pronounceth them blessed that feare God keepe his Commandements and walke in the vndefiled way doth it not describe the person whose sinnes are couered in which stands his happinesse Our Sauiour hath taught vs plainly That except our righteousnesse exceed the righteousnesse of the Scribes and Pharisies wee shall in no wise enter into the Kingdome of Heauen Math. 5 20. What righteousnesse doth hee here meane Inâ—erent or the righteousnesse of workes for he presseth an vniforme obseruation of all Gods Commandements The Scribes and Pharisees did as it seeme euen then calumniate him â—s they did afterward Paul and the Papists doe vs still as a destâ—oyeâ— of the Law because he reproued their confidence in workes and sought to establish the doctrine of faith which now we teach Needfull in this respect was that caueâ—t I thinke not that I am come to destroy the Law and the Prophets Verse 17. Math. 5.17 I am not come to destroy but to fulfill them And in these words as our Sauiour rendreth a reason why he that breaketh any of those Commandements which the Scribes and Pharisees counted the least shall bee counted least in the kingdome of Heauen Verse 19. so he maketh passage to the exposition of the law in the verses following where hee cleares it from the corrupt glosses of the Scribes and Pharisees And it is to be noted that he saith Verse 20. not Except your righteousnesse exceed the righteousnesse of the Law and Prophets but except it exceed the righteousnesse of the Scribes and Pharisees to wit that righteousnes which they taught and practiced who made none account of some commandements which they called the least vrged only an externall obseruation of the Law according to the letter without any respect of inward pietie and maimed and mâ—ngled the word as pleased themselues The sentence therefore must bee vnderstood of inherent righteousnesse whence the necessitie of good workes is strongly concluded The faith that iustifieth is liuely and operatiue euer conioyned with an affection of pietie and obsequious disposition as powerfull to bring forth deeds of mercie as to make firme and faithfull application of Christs righteousnesse or conceiue sure trust of Gods mercie offered in him Now what is required in faith that it may iustifie of necessitie it must goe before assurance of pardon and forgiuenesse True it is then that without inherent holinesse no man can be assured of his acquittance from sinne but if we enquire into the true cause of absolution it is the sole grace and mercie of God in Iesus Christ embraced by a true and liuely faith Doth this any thing preiudice Christian assurance that without true and sincere obedience at least without a promptitude apâ—nesse inclination and resolution to doe good workes and walke in obedience there can bee no â—ssurance No For the belieuer relieth not vpon his workes though hee exercise himselfe therein with all diligence and though hee know well that hee comes infinitely short of what God commandeth and bewaile his daily failings and sees hee hath need to renew his purpose and resolution to better his obedience and condemnes the imperfections that hee espieth more and more in himselfe yet it is not impossible to be assured of the truth and vprightnesse of his heart and sincere though imperfect desire and endeuour to walke with God which as the fruit of the Spirit and effect of faith doth euidence his reconciliation with God For hee that feareth God and walketh in his wayes in the perfect and vndefiled way is iustified from sin And he that knowes 1. Iohn 1.3 4. â—hat he walketh before God in truth and with a perfect â—â—a t may certainly conclude from this fruit of the Spiâ—it that his sinnes are pardoned § 11. I might adde §. 11. that the faithfull are sealed by the Spirit and by the same Spirit are enabled to cry Abba Father What infirmities may stand with assurance whereby they are assured of the pardon of their sâ—nnes but I will shut vp this matter briefly shewing what infirmities may stand with assurance of faith and what sinnes cannot that Christians may bee directed the better to make triall of their estate 1. Iohn 1.7 If we say we haue fellowship with him and walke in darknesse we liue and doe n t the truth and if we say that we such as Iohn then was regenerate and in the state of grace haue no sin Verse 8. we deceiue our selues and the truth is not in vs. Euen such then as walke in the light and haue fellowship with God are sinners Prou. 20.9 Ecles 7.2 1. Iohn 3.9 and not iust or perfect in themselues Who can say his heart is cleane there is no man iust who sinneth not and yet the Apostle is bold to affirme That hee that is bâ—rne of God sinneth not The iust then transgresse the Law and so are sinners but they make not a trade of sin or profession of iniquitie and so are not law-breakers or transgressours And this the Apostle plainly teacheth saying Iames 2.10 Euery one that hath this hope of being the Sonne of God doth purge himselfe as he is pure 1. Iohn 3.3 not according to the measure of his puritie or perfection but according to the truth in habit becomes like vnto him as on the contrarie he that commits sinne 1. Iohn 3.8 that is is a crafts-master of iniquitie
and laboureth therein he resembles his Father the Deuil whose chiefe delight is in doing mischiefe Which is further confirmed by that of our Sauiour Christ to the Iewes Iohn 8.34 Verily whosoeuer committeth sinne is the seruant of sinne and the seruant abideth not in the house for euer but the Sonne abideth foreuer If the Sonne therefore shall make you free yee shall be free indeed He that committeth sinne with delight wilfull indulgence to transgressions and vnrelenting opposition to the cleare truth he is the seruant of sinne but they that are made free by the Sonne are free from the raigne of sinne 1. Iohn 5.18 not from euery act of sinne He that is borne of God keepes himselfe that the wicked one cannot come within him to endanger him the gates of hell can haue no preuailing power oâ—er him hee sinneth not as the world doth which lieth in iniquitie but altogether free from sinne hee is not nor euer shall be so long as hee carrieth about with him this bodie of death To sinne habitually wilfully indulgently with full consent and greedinesse is not compatible with the hope and profession of a Christian This spot is not the spot of Gods children Deut. 32.5 but they haue their blemishes they sinne of infirmitie though not of wilfulnesse Sinne in it owne nature is opposite to grace but all sinnes are not altogether incompatible with grace that is they hinder not the gracefull operation of faith hope and loue The remainders of Originall corruption vnder which the regenerate must labour so long as they liue sinnes of simple ignorance and of vnauoidable infirmitie which through weaknesse the faithfull runne into euery day these doe not stop the liuely worke of faith in receiuing the promises of mercie but euen at the very instant when these haue abode in the soule faith can and doth make faithfull plea for mercie or otherwise none could plead for mercie before the throne of Grace For in many things we sinne all Iames 3.2 Sinnes of forgetfulnesse inconsideration and passion whereunto there is not aduised consent these are as moates in the eye which doe somewhat trouble the cleare sight of faith but notwithstanding them the heart principally adheareth vnto God and though now and then through infirmitie a Christian bee ouertaken with them yet may hee vpon good grounds be assured of Gods loue Anger pettishnesse impatience inordinate feare are sinnes which the godly ought and doe watch against and for which they ought and must iudge themselues but if through infirmitie they be ouer-taken to speake an hastie or vnaduised word they must not therefore cast off their confidence notwithstanding such slips they may cry in faith and be heard in their supplications If any man sinne 1. Iohn 2.1 2. to wit of infirmitie as they doe who walke in the light and addict themselues to the serious studie of holinesse wee haue an Aduocate with the Father Iesus Christ the righteous and he is the propitiation for our sinnes What answere the Lord gaue to Paul touching his temptations My grace is sufficient for thee 2. Cor. 12.7 8. that may be said of the infirmities of the Saints such sinnes as be meere and absolute infirmities God of his Grace reuealed in the couenant of grace is pleased to grant vnto them a pardon of course Such sinnes as in regâ—rd of their matter are not repugnant to the maine offices prescribed by the Commandements of God being oâ— frâ—iltie committed through vnaduisednesse or sudden passion these doe not denominate a man a Law-breaker nor so weaken the power of faith as that it should not be able to receiue the promise of forgiuenesse nor suspenâ— the actuall claime of eternall life These frailties may be â—n the godly without any notable defect of faith they debarre not the soule from cleauing vnto God Gen. 1â— 13 Abraham said of Sarah She is my sister this was an infirmitie but did not extinguish faith Sarah laughed at the promise Gen. 18.10 11. and then denied it through feare Iacob beguiled his Father saying I am thy Sonne Esau Gen. 27.19 Exod. 4.10.14 Iob 40 5. Math. 16.22 2 Chron. 35.22 2. Chron. 30.18 19. and many such like infirmities of the Saints are recorded which argue their faith to bee weake not to bee deposed from it soueraignetie The reason heâ—eof is not to be taken from the matter or outward act wherein they offended but from their heart and affection which was more inclined to good then to euill and did sticke fast vnto God euen when through weaknesse they transgressed By faith Rahab receiued the spies with peace Heb. 11.31 when through infirmitie shee offended in the meanes of their safetie The Prophet Dauid was regenerate without question and had sure hope that his prayers for mercie should be heard when he vttered this complaint of himselfe Psal 19.12 13. Who can vnderstand his errours Cleanse thou me from secret faults Kâ—epe backe thy seruant also from presumptuous sinnes let them not haue dominion ouer me then shall I be vpright and I shall be innocent from the great transgression So that a faithfull man stepping aside thâ—ough infirmity in the forenamed offeÌ„ces I say through infirmitie and not oâ— habit custome grosse carelesnesse or delight doth retaine his integritie and faith though somwhat shaken doth keep it standing and continue liuely to beg embrace pardon But he that sinneth of meere frailty doth humble himself for his daily offences labour to represse and mortifie his inbred lusts seeketh forgiuenesse by vnfained confession and heartie prayer renueth his purpose and resolution to be more circumspect and setteth vp his watch to shunne and auoid the like sins for the time to come And if he be ouertaken at vnawares he is warned by that slip to looke more heedfully to his wayes beging pardon and seeking helpe from aboue that hee may bee able to stand fast so that the slip which did seeme somwhat to loose him is an occasion of his sticking faster and closer vnto God § 12. But if a godly man fall into a foule and enormous crime wasting conscience §. 12. What sinnes hinder assurance Psa 51.10 14. 1. Reg. 11.4 for the time hee loseth some degree of newnes of Spirit cleannesse of heart comfort of the holy Ghost integritie in a sort and peace of conscience Hee plungeth himselfe into the sence of Gods wrath and displeasure and by his grieuous transgression the power of faith is so weakened that he can neither belieue the pardon of any one sinne formerly pardoned nor lay actuall claime to any priuiledge of grace formerly enioyed The fauour of God towards his children is vnchangeable the sentence of pardon granted shall neuer bee reuersed euen after some grieuous fall Psal 37.24 Ioh. 10.28.29.30 Iohn 8.35 1. â—ohn 3.9 the seeds of grace abide in them and they remaine in the state of Iustification but whilest they continue in such an estate of sinne
they can make no actuall claime to the promises of eternâ—ll life The seeds of grace abiding in them they still retaine their right and title to eternall life to be giuen of free and vndeserued grace but they are suspended from actuall claime vntill they rise againe by true repentance and then they recouer not a new right or title but a new claime by vertue of the old title For it is the perpetuall ordinance oâ— God that if his children str ke out of the way by sinne they m st rise againe and renue their faith and repentance before they can haue any sound or true hope of saluation There can be no Christian assurance which doth not fully consent and accord with these and such like passages of holâ— S ripture Psal 66.18 Ezek. 18.4 If I regard iniquitie in my heart the Lord will not heare me The soule that sinneth shall die Know yee not that the vnrighteous shall not inherite the kingdome of God Be not deceiued neither fornicatours 1. Cor. 6.9 Eph. 5.5 Col. 3.5.6 Reu. 21.8 nor idolat rs nor adulterers nor effeminate nor abusers of themselues with mankinde Nor theeues nor couetous nor drunkaâ—ds nor reuilers nor extortioners shall inherite the kingdome of God If therefore a godly man as Dauid tu nâ— asi e into sinne of this kinde hee can haue no assurance of mercie till this iniquitie bee broken off by vnfained repentance For faith cannot receiue what the word of grace doth not promise Isay 1.16 Pro. 28.13 1. Ioh. 1.6.7 But pardon of sinne is promised to them onely that confesse and forsake their iniquitie that forsake all sinne in habit delight and indulgence grosse sinne vtterly and vpon good aduice § 13. The raigne and absolute dominion a Rom. 6.12.13.14 of sin doth vtterly exclude grace and hee that is so guiltie §. 13. The absolute raigne of sinne will not stand with the state of grace hath nothing in him that can cry or call for pardon or forgiuenes In whom sinne hath this dominion he as yet is vnder b Ioh 3.36 Deut. 9 24 Mat. 7.23 Num. 15.30 the curse of the law and the wrath of God abideth on him for the presence of grace infused is a necessary qualificato the pardon of sinne and where sinne doth beare such sway as to shut forth whatsoeuer in vs should intreate mercie it doth him vp vnder wrath Were it possible for a man regenerate which shall neuer befall them that are called â—ccording to the purpose of God after grace receiued to sinne wilfully with full consent delight and contentment to the vtter extinguishing of the Spirit of grace or finally to abuse any extraordinary measure of inherent grace by indulgence to knowne sinnes secret or open he should fall from the state of Iustification and be called to a strict account as well for all his former sinnes as this abuse of his talent § 14. Assurance of saluation if true §. 14. True assurance breeds resolution and care to please God 1 Ioh. 3.22 is euer ioyned with a religious and conscionable desire to walke before God in all well-pleasing and to doe the things that are acceptable in his sight and assured standing in grace depends vpon a like certaintie of not continuing indulgence to knowne offences or grosse negligence in repenting or bewayling secret sins Where this priuiledge is possessed the heart is most tender and sensible of sinne most watchfull to shunne and auoide whatsoeuer is displeasing vnto his Highnesse greiued with holy indignation for former loosenes and vntowardlines Luk 7.47 1. Ioh. 4.19 Cant. 5.8 and 8.7 1. Pet. 1.8 Psal 103.1.2.3 1. Cor. 14.1 Col 3.1.2 Phil. 3.9 there flourisheth vnfained loue to God for his mercie and to the brethren for the Lords sake sound humilitie and free submission to the Lords will and commaunde in euery thing sincere and continuall thankefulnesse to God for all his gifts both in prosperitie and trouble health and sickenesse holy couteousnes after spirituall things ioyned with sound delight in the word of God and base account of all things in comparison of Christ holy and reuerent admimiration to see his state thus changed from so low a depth of miserie to so great an height of glory Psal 4.6.7 and 63.3 1. Pet. 1.8 Act. 8.39 Rom. 5.4 Ier. 9.23 sweete contentment ioy vnspeakeable with continuall care and constant resolution to better his obedience and mercifull zealous desire both by edifying speech and godly example to draw on and build vp others in faith and godlinesse How can it be conceiued that a man should be assured of the pardon and forgiuenesse of many and great offences committed by him but it will worke a greater loathing and detestation of sinne vnfained abasement for former wickednesse continuall watchfullnesse to keepe himselfe pure ardent loue with inward ioy that cannot be expressed How can a man be perswaded that greater happinesse is giuen him of God then all the world is worth that more sinnes are pardoned him then he hath haires on his head the least whereof is sufficient to plung him into the nethermost Hell but hee must needs loue the Lord who hath gratiously looked vpon him in his distresse reioyce with ioy vnspeakeable and glorious and keepe continuall watch against the baites and allurements of sinne that hee loose not his comfort nor dishonour God who hath done so great things for him The Malefactour is glad of his Princes pardon specially of his Highnesse fauour whereby he is aduanced into great honour and dignitie When the Iewes heard of the proclamation of King Cyrus by which they were set free from their long and tedious captiuitie they were rapt with ioy and wondring Psa 126.1.2 that they were like to men that thinke they rather dreame then indeede possesse the thing that their soules longed after how much more will certaine assurance that we are set free from the perpetuall bondage of sinne and restored to the euerlasting freedome of righteousnesse and life make vs wonder at the infinite wisedome and vnspeakeable goodnesse of our Heauenly Father The Saints considering the goodnesse of God towards Man in his creation breke forth into holy admiration Psal 8.4.5 Ioh. 7.17 Psal 144.3 Lord what is man that thou art so mindfull of him The Prophet calling to Minde long after what God had done for his soule in deliuering him from the terrour of death and power of the graue cannot passe it ouer without feruent thankes and praise Psal 116.12 What shall I render to the Lord for all his benefites towards me And when Peter came to himselfe and saw indeede that he was deliuered from the tyrannie of Herod from the deepe dungeon and bitter death prepared for him he entred into a religious and thankefull admiration of the great power and mercie of the Lord Act. 12.11 saying Now I know for a truth that the Lord hath sent his Angell and hath deliuered mee from the
will both Loue and hatred is noth ng but the affection of good or euill will vnto a thing knowne in the vnderstanding Our Aduersaries themselues place hope in the vnderstanding and the will Bellar. de Iust lib. 3. cap. 11. attributing a double certaintie vnto it one in respect of the vnderstanding another in respect of the will And so faith being one doth properly possesse one subiect to-wit the soule but considered according to the two faculties thereof it possesseth the Minde as it vnderstandeth and assenteth the will as it receiueth embraceth the word of promise Secondly it is answered that sauing faith doth presuppose knowledge and assent as the roote and foundation but formally it is an affection towards the promise of grace and seated in the heart As the reasonable soule doth giue life sence and motion as inferior operations so iustifying faith doth knowe and assent but as iustifying it doth trust and relie vpon the mercie of God in Iesus Christ Thirdly Iustifying faith or faith as it iustifyeth is not one vertue not any vertue but iustifyeth onely as it makes vs partakers of the righteousnes of Christ which it doth not by any dignitie or excellencie of it owne but in respect of the place and office which our mercifull God hath freely and liberally granted vnto it Now nothing hindreth why God should not giue the name of faith both to assent in the vnderstanding and to affyance in the will and require both to Iustification And that it is not a vertue as it iustifyeth is manifest hereby that wee are iustified by the act of faith not by the habite of faith as Diuines popish and protestant confesse But if Minde and will be indeed but two names or titles of one and the same intellectuall nature as truth and goodnesse in matters morall differ only in degrees of apprehension then there is no roome for this obiection 1. Reg. 3.9 2. Cor. 3.15 Act. 7.39 and 11.23 1 Cor. 7.37 Math. 6.21 Rom. 1.24 Ioh. 14.1 Luk. 1.66 and 21.14 Math. 12.35 Math. 13.14.15 Ioh. 24.25 and 4.11 Psal 10. Pro. 3.5 20. 1. Ioh. 5.1 Rom. 10.8 1. Ioh. 5.4.5.20 vers 1. Iohn 2.4 Psal 78 22. Psal 137.4.5 Neh. 6.14 and 13.14.29 Iohn 17.3 Heb. 4.2.3 Eccl. 12.1 Not to dispute this point any further this is manifest that in Scripture the heart is taken for the whole soule with all its powers and operations as of vnderstanding willing and choosing remembring or retaining in Minde and affecting that the Scripture doth simply attribute to the heart knowledge confidence and affection and that the Scripture hath no peculiar words whereby that philosophicall distinction of Minde and will may be confirmed and therefore according to the sentence of Scripture wee may seale faith in the heart or reasonable soule and not trouble our selues about the distinction of the faculties If the Scripture mention this as an act of faith To belieue that Christ is the sonne of God which is seated in the Minde it must bee remembred that words of knowledge doe together by connotation imply affection much more words of beliefe and therefore where wee finde to belieue that Christ is the sonne of God we must conceiue this beliefe to containe confidence in the Sonne Words of knowledge most vsually import not idle knowledge in the Minde but true and vnfained affections in the heart which accompanie that knowledge Knowledge is the ground of confidence and so it is put for confidence which it doth bring forth The whole intellectuall nature is the seate of faith and that faith which iustifyeth is well-rooted and taketh kindly in the soule otherwise it could not season the whole lumpe disperse it vertue into euery affection commaunde euery passion and bring into subiection whatsoeuer doth make head against the power of godlinesse Faith that is not well planted can neither soundly receiue nor firmely hold Christ but by the allurements of the world the lusts of the flesh and assaults of Sathan it is easily ouer-turned The stonie ground receiued the seed but wanting good root it withered and brought forth no fruit to ripenesse Whilest faith possesseth the castle of the soule it can as easily ouercome the assaults of the Flesh the World and the Deuill as honest subiects which hold the heart of the Kingdome can vanquish and bring vnder the scattered forces of an enemie that makes inrodes vpon the borders But if the heart be taken vp with wordly delights or vaine lusts be suffered to build their castle therein then shall wee bee made a prey to Satan The cares of the world and pleasures of this life choake the seed of life receiued that it brings forth no fruit vnto perfection § 4. This faith wel-rooted is common to all §. 4. Faith is peculiar to them who be called according to the purpose of God Ephes 4.5 2. Cor. 4.13 Math. 9.2 2 Pet. 1.1 1. Pet. 1.7 Rom. 1.17 Gal 2. â—0 1. Iohn 3.23 Hab 2.4 Iohn 20.27 Acts 16.31 19. â— Marke 11.22 John 14.1 1 Pet. 1.7 Heb. â—1 6 7 8 9 10. c. Gal. 3.26 Acts 8.37 and proper to them only who be called according to the purpose of God All that be sauingly-effectually called and they only are partakers of the same faith in subiect obiect kind but not in number and degree Euerie Belieuer hath a proper singular sincere indiuiduall faith in kinde the same but in number differing from the faith of others as the faith of Peter was distinct from the faith of the other Disciples The iust doth liue by his owne faith A speciall and particular faith is required in euery one that shall be saued This particular faith is commended by the holy Ghost in particular faithfull men and women And when the faithfull of age and discretion were admitted to Baptisme they professed particularly their faith in Christ Health of bodie and such like outward blessings may bee conferred by God vpon one for the faith of another And the children of Christian parents are within the couenant for their parents faith as the promise is made to the faithfull and to their seed and they receiue it for themselues and their posteritie And generally the faith of one may helpe to obtaine for another Iames 5.14 15. Phil 1.19 Ephes 6.18 2. Thes 3â— so farre as it moueth to pray for others But remâ—ssion of sinnes and saluation is not obtained without a proper and speciall faith in them that bee of ripe yea es and haue the vse of reason God takes no pleasure in them who withdraw themselues by vnbeliefe Heb. 10.38 §. 5. All haue not like measure of faith Rom. 12 3. Math. 8.10 15.28 Math. 6.30 8.26 14.31 16.8 Marke 9.24 Rom. 4.20 Rom. 14.1 15.1 § 5. The fâ—ith which is belieued is one and the same the grace whereby we belieue supernaturally infused the seate of faith an humbled and contriâ—e heart but the measure of faith is not equall or
bee much more readie to extend mercy vnto vs if wee sue vnto him There is no difficultie so great either in respect of sin or of the meanes c but it hath beene ouercome by euery one of the Saints which is our encouragement to seeke faith that we migâ—t be healed § 2. Now the knowledge of God and Christ supposed without which there can bee no faith §. 2. Meanes for the right planting of faith the meanes for the right planting of faith be these First serious meditation of our miserable estate by nature the multitude and hainousnes of our sinnes and how deepe staine sinne hath made in the soule The Physitian is welcome to the sicke patient the guiltie person esteemes his pardon Math. 9.12.13 Hunger causeth men to tast their meate and mercie is pleasant to him that knowes his neede of mercy Secondly learne and consider what promises be made in the Gospell and to whom Christ offeâ—eth himselfe euen to the thirstie wearie laden and burdened to them that bee stung in conscience parched with sinne that haue neither sappe nor fruite of grace To them Christ â—ffereth himselfe and becomes a â—â—â—ter that if they will come vnto him he will ease and refresh enrich and comfort them Ho euery one that thirsteth come yeâ— to the waters Let euery one that is a thirst Isay 55.1.2 â— come vnto mee and drinke Ioh. 7.37 Numb 21.9 Ioh. 3.14 Math 11.18 If any be oppressed with the weight of sinne him doth the Lord intreate and perswade to come for ease If any be confounded in conscience of his owne wretchednesse and sinne to him the Lord calleth in the Gospell Come and let thy soule delight in fatnes Men of this world labour to match with such in marriage as be rich and vertuous but Christ doth preferre loue to such as be poore that hee might make them rich filthy that hee might make them beautifull in distresse that hee might comfort them base that he might make them honourable guiltie that he might acquit them naked that he might cloath them Thirdly Ponder and weigh who it is that maketh this liberall and free promise euen God himselfe who is able and willing and faithfull to performe what he promiseth of his rich grace and vnspeakable mercie All these are cleare and manifest for the truth of them bâ—t wee haue need oft to set them before vs for our vse to encourage vs the more boldly and sincerely to relie vpon Christ To this end specially are these testimonies of Gods Power Mercie and Truth so often repeated in the Scriptures that we might haue them euer before vs to vphold vs against our doubtings and feares whereof our nature is full The things promised in the Gospell are vnlikely in reason opposite to sence and feeling too great and excellent as Satan and our distrustfull hearts will suggest to be conferred vpon such vile and filthy creatures as we be who haue so many wayes dishonoured God and haue such a load of sin lying still vpon vs For the ouercomming of which temptation wee must looke vp to him that hath made the promise his grace faithfulnesse and power and keepe them in our eye continually rowsinâ— vp our soules to belieue against sence and feeling reason and likelihood because God is faithfull and cannot denie himselfe gracious and will not cast vs off for our vnworthinesse great in might able to doe whatsoeuer he will and willing to performe with his hand whatsoeuer commeth out of his mouth Wee must say to our soules The Lord of his grace inuites thee a poore needie miserable selfe-condemned wretch to come vnto Iesus Christ and of the same grace hath promised to accept thee if thou do come to heale thy soares to forgiue thy sinnes come therefore behold he calleth thee reason may be deluded sence is deceitfull but the Word of the Lord endureth for euer Thou hast his faithfull promise for thy securitie dispute no more but draw neere with confidence Fourthly It is very needfull againe and againe to consider what excellent things are promised and so raise the heart to an high prizing and valuation of them Math. 13 44. The wise Merchant doth not buy the pearle till hee know it to be of excellent price or better then any price Great things are eagerly sought vpon probable hopes The meere possibilitie of obtaining some great and extraordinarie good is of maruellous force in swaying mens actions And if men consider serioâ—sly what rare surpassing pretious things be promised to them that come vnto Iesus Christ and rest vpon him what shall withhold them from belieuing Were we certainly perswaded that euerlasting life full laden with all the fruits of true life ioy peace and all choicest pleasures without any annoyance should bee conferred vpon them that belieue in Iesus Christ would we not hang close and sticke fast and not suffer the pleasures or profits of this transitorie life to diuide vs from him The reason why we striue so slackly to belieue and be so dull in Gods seruice and faint in trouble is because our hearts be not holden with the serious consideration of that kingdome ioy and glory which God hath prepared for them that belieue and cleaue vnto him Fiftly It is also needfull to denie our selues our desires lusts and affections to make ouer all our interest in our liues or whatsoeuer is deare vnto vs inure our hearts calmely to the heate and opposition though of dearest friends and the reproaches and reuilings of men though abiect and vile This our Sauiour layes downe as a fundamentall principle If any man will come after me Math. 16.24 let him denie himselfe and take vp his crosse and follow me Math. 10.37 38 He that loueth Father or Mother more then mee is not worthy of me and he that loueth Sonne or Daughtâ—r more then me Luke 14.25 is not worthy of me And hee that taketh not his crosse and followeth after mee is not worthy of mee The necessitie of this resolution hee more fully sets out vnto vs in two parables of a builder that must be able to count his cost and charges and meanes to defray them before hee take that worke in hand otherwise to begin to build being vnable to make an end were to lay the foundation of his disgrace in the losse of his cost and paines And a Prince who before he vndertake warre must haue sure triall of his owne abilitie and skill to discouer his enemies strength otherwise to bid him battaile were rashly to prouoke an enemie to his owne losse and danger Luke 14.33 Mat. 13.44 45. The conclusion of these inductions is this So likewise whosoeuer hee bee of you that forsaketh not all that hee hath hee cannot be my Disciple The Merchant that would purchase the pearle of price must sell all that he hath to buy it Hee must sell his sinnes which is properly all wee haue of our owne and renounce his interest in
the world and whatsoeuer naturall contentment hee might promise himselfe in the things of this world The meaning is not that rich men must forgoe their wealth and betake themselues to voluntarie pouertie for riches well vsed be great instruments of doing good But they must cast the world out of their affections and make ouer their interest in whatsoeuer is most deare vnto them they must preferre the kingdome of Heauen before the whole world and therefore renounce both themselues and all the desires of the flesh that nothing may hinder the enioying of so rich a treasure Christ doth make loue vnto vs and by many faire sweet and precious promises doth allure and intice vs to embrace him but will bee receiued by way of Matrimoniall couenant wee must forsake all base and carnall delights cast out of the heart whatsoeuer we formerly accounted pretious in the world cleaue vnto him only and bee contented with those spirituall good things which he promiseth vnto vs. Christ hath neuer due esteem with vs vnles for his sake we withdraw our hearts from all the riches delights honours and profits of the world and denie our selues that in all things we might be conformable vnto his wil pleasure What are we better then harlots so long as the woâ—ld or the delights thereof lusts or passioÌ„s possâ—sse the heart diuide it from Christ Roots though of trees can go no deeper then the rock or stone nor can the Word of life siâ—ke deeper into the heart then vn o the roots of his naturall desires or affections which vnrenounced hinder the right taking and kindly spreading of it Luke 8.14 The cares of this world and voluptuous liuing choake the seed of the word after it hath taken some rooting that it brings forth no fruit vnto ripenesse Therfore that the word of the kingdome may take kindly and fructifie in vs wee must cast vp our accounts before hand what we can be content to forgo for Christs sake and renounce the pleasures delights of the World giuing vp our selues intirely to Iesus Christ in all things to be directed guided by him inuring our selues quietly to beare reproach disgrace contempt for his sake and watching heedfully in prosperitie that the world creep not into our affection priuily steale away our hearts from him And this we shal do the more freely if we attentiuely consider what excellent incoÌ„parable treasures of delight ioy comfort are to be found in Iesus Christ ouer and aboue all the world can promise or afford Should a good husband be offered some goodly royaltiâ— vpon condition he would forsake his base tenement or hard rented lease when once hee perceiued the profit of the exchange you need not vse arguments to perswade him Should some great Noble-man make suite of loue to a meane personage vpon condition shee would forsake her base drudgerie for the honours and delights of a pallace the motion would bee accepted And if wee seriously weigh that the Lord Iesus calleth vs to forsake the flesh-pots of Egypt and alienatâ— our interest in the world and the flesh with all their appurtenances that wee might be enriched with heauenly euer-enduring pleasures in comparison wherof all earthly contentments are but dung and dogs-meate Phil. 3.8 that hee inuites vs to cast away our harlotrie delights that he might marrie vs vnto himselfe and intitle vs vnto his euerlasting kingdome it will not be grieuous to make this exchange But here it must be remembred that it is not the possession of earthly things or delight in them that is forbidden but that possession and delight in them which with-holdeth vs from resigning our selues vnto Christ and seeking after the promised land withall the heart and all the soule It is not the actuall abandoning of riches honour or other contentments of this life which our Sauiour requires but the dispossessing of the heart of such base delights that the whole heart may bee set vpon heauenly things and not with-drawne by secret reseruation of speciall desires for other purposes And being thus disposed we receiue Christ with wel-rooted affiance and cleaue to the mercie of God as much better then life it selfe § 3. Faith kindly planted must be regarded seriously and carefully confirmed §. 3. Faith once obtained is seriously to be regarded Luke 22.31 For Sathan vseth all meanes to weaken faith yea quite to subuert and ouerthrow it If an house begin to shrinke or reele of one side will wee not put vnder some shore to prop it vp Or if any man question the Title of Land we haue purchased will wee not search Records and vse meanes to strengthen it The malice of Satan in seeking by all meanes to batter downe our faith is sufficient to shew the excellencie thereof and to awaken vs to a continuall carefull regard to preserue and encrease it In this life wee are subiect to many trials that require strength of faith to vndergoe them Acts 14.22 1. Thes 3.2 3 4. The world by reason of our continuall imployment in it is apt to creepe into the heart and insensibly to steale the affections from the eager pursuite of heauenly things which calleth vpon vs for more then ordinarie care to increase our desires of grace and moderate them in transitorie things Hee who will haue a plant to thriue in a ground drie barren and vnkindly for it must striue much because his soyle will not doe further then it is forced so he that will make fire burne in greene moist wood must follow it with blowing thus to get faith to thriue in our natures which are as apt to the weedes of diffidence and vice as auerse from faith and euery true vertue wee must striue with them and offer violence vnto them He who doth rowe against the streame must plie his oare or hee will goe downe apace so it is here wee goe against the streame of corrupt nature so farre as wee goe in faith or grace Our daily and continuall weaknesse of faith which wee finde in assenting vnto and receiuing most obiects of faith and promises of God when it is encountred with temptations Our ordinarie failings in the practice of holy duties and due ordering of our affections which cannot bee without a precedent defect of that faith which onely can firmely vnite vs vnto Christ doth sufficiently manifest how feeble our beliefe is in the speciall mercies of God towards vs in Iesus Christ which being the highest obiect is the hardest to bee apprehended and can neuer bee seperated from firme assent vnto euery precept of God as much better then any incompatible good And if men take food and physicke to strengthen their bodies because they are fraile must wee not labour to confirme our weake and feeble faith The labour bestowed about this most gainfull and beautifll grace is so farre from tedious toile that it is the solace of a Christian heart and the pleasure thereof more sweet then any pleasure that
Hope Loue Iustice Temperance which it is to be brought vnto In which regard as liuing bodies need daily food that they might grow vnto perfection of nature so soules hauing grace haue need to goe ouer with the vse of the meanes as well as others that the diuine nature may be more and more enlarged getting vp as the light of the Sunâ—e doth in the aire which it inlightneth Seuenthly It is good to call to minde the experience of the faith and ioy which wee haue had at any time before 2. Cor. 10. remembring that former comforts are as a bill obligatorie vnder Gods hand to assure that hee will not forsake vs. For whom God loueth hee loueth to the end Iohn 13.1 because he is vnchangeable the same for euer which consideration may serue to settle vs in assurance of Gods loue towards vs more then a childe can bee of his Fathers good-will or a wife of her bodily Husbands fauour for they are mutable Eightly Obserue the opportunities when it pleaseth God in speciall manner to draw nigh vnto vs and make vse of them God visiteth his children sometimes in tender compassion and knocketh at the doore of their hearts inuiting them to diuine and heauenly communication with him Sometimes he inclineth their soules to fresh sorrow for sinne sometimes hee refresheth them with more liuely apprehension of the ioyes of Heauen sometimes they feele the motions of the Spirit quicke and liuely vpon what occasions soeuer or in what manner it shall please God to offer himselfe vnto vs it stands vs vpon to make vse of that for our quickning to nourish the motions of his Spirit and by feruent Prayer to entreat the continuance of his presence Ninthly Faith increaseth by exercise and groweth by continuall vse If wee learne to liue by faith in matters of this life both when wee haue and when wee want the meanes and rest vpon God for successe in our lawfull calings without distracting care we shall with more facilitie and ease depend vpon the free promises of grace for mercie and forgiuenesse CHAP. XII Of the temptations whereby Satan seeketh to batter downe our faith and how he may be resisted §. 1. Ephes 6.16 1. Pet. 5.8 § 1. THe Deuill knoweth right well that faith is the band whereby we are knit vnto Christ the shield whereby wee quench the fierie darts of the Deuill the ground-worke of a godly life and the safe castle of a Christian soule If faith bee weakened our zeale cooleth our courage abateth our life is tedious our Prayers faint the exercises of Religion vncomfortable and all the graces of Gods Spirit pine and languish Also by doubting and distrust wee dishonour God lay open our hearts to temptations discourage others and tie our owne hands that we cannot fight against our deadly enemies For these causes Satan endeuours by all meanes to hinder as the kindly taking so the growth of faith that such as he cannot hold in the chaines of sinne he might make their liues dead Temptations against Faith wearisome vnprofitable by doubting and discomfort First Satan suggesteth 1. Worthlesnesse that it is horrible presumption for such vile sinners and worthlesse wretches to perswade themselues of Gods speciall loue and fauour And to this end he spareth not to set forth the maiestie iustice and puritie of the Lord that it might strike the greater terrour into the wounded conscience For the repelling of this temptation Remedie The sence of our vnworthinesse must not discourage vs from belieuing it is to be knowne and remembred that Gods mercie fauour promises and benefits are all free which hee vouchsafeth offereth bestoweth without any respect of worthinesse or deserts of his meere grace and vndeserued loue in Iesus Christ And therefore as when wee are most worthy in our owne conceit there is no reason wee should presume the more so when wee find our selues vnworthy there is no cause why wee should hope the lesse For the ground of our confidence is the promise of free and vndeserued mercie made in Christ Iesus to miserable forlorne sinners who see and acknowledge themselues to be more vile then the mire in the street And this sets forth the prayse of Gods mercie so much the more that it is afforded to such base abiects who deserue nothing but to bee cast forth and trodden vnderfoot Should the prisoner doubt of his Princes mercie when hee heareth his pardon read and seeth it sealed because he hath merited no such kindnesse Againe it is good to call to minde and seriously to consider what strong encouragements wee haue to receiue the promises and how wee are not more desirous to belieue then God is wee should so doe For God doth through loue intreat vs of friendship counsell vs 2. Cor. 5.19 20. 1. Tim. 1.15 1. Iohn 3 23 24. and of his authoritie being able to performe commandeth vs as if hee would hereby shew that none hath authoritie to hinder or forbid the same And therefore wee must be warned to beware of all occasions that may darken or put out the light of our confidence as reasoning or questioning against our selues for yeelding to this truth lately receiued c. § 2. Satan will here obiect to the weake and timorous Christian that hee knowes not whether he bee of the number of Gods elect §. 2. 2. They know not whether they be elected and therefore hath nothing to doe with the promises If the Deuill set vpon vs in this sort wee must hold such suggestions to arise from the Spirit of errour Remedy 1. Ioh. 3.23 1. Tim 6.12 Heb. 10.35 Math. 13.31 Ioel 2.6.7 Ioh 10.27 Satan is not to be hearkened vnto nor reasoned with when he tempteth to Infidelitie Gen. 3.1.2.3 because they are contrarie to the voyce of God who saith to the afflicted conscience that is wearie of sin Belieue lay hold on eternall life cast not a way thy confidence Be established confirmed and abound in faith Therefore we must lend no eare to such whisperings of the old serpent but cleaue fast to the word of the Lord and cut off all contrarie inchantments It was the first degree to the vtter vndoing of her selfe and posteritie in our Grandmother Eue that shee opened her eare to a false and lying spirit in the mouth of a Serpent which vnder a faire colour perswaded or rather couertly inticed and drew her to eate of the forbidden fruite The decree of God which is secret in the bosome of the most High is not the rule according to which we must walke but the word of life reuealed in holy Scriptures wee must take for our direction Eph. 1.13 If God make offer of mercie and forgiuenesse vnto vs in the ministerie of the Gospell which is the word of truth the word of saluation wee are bound to receiue it without looking into the booke of his election and if wee receiue them truely we shall bee saued as the Lord hath spoken
estate But this falleth out by the wise prouidence of God so disposing least by the suddaine change from so damnable and vncomfortable an estate to so happie and ioyfull he should be lifted vp and conceited and so become secure and presumptuous Againe this maketh him the more to pâ—ize the sense of Gods mercie and with the greater care to preserue his faith and to shunne all sinne and wickednes which might hinder the apprehension of his continuall loue § 5. Satan tempteth some to doubt because at first they receiued the truth without due tryall §. 5. 5. They receiued the truth at first without due tryall and examination whose dutie it is carefully to reforme whatsoeuer they espie to haue beene amisse but for one rotten post it is no wisedome to pull downe the whole building Remedy 1. Ioh. 1.9 For God is mercifull and readie to forgiue our imperfections when vpon the knowledge and sight wee confesse and bewaile them Faith may bee true though much were amisse when first we receiued the truth The Disciples at first followed Christ in hope of temporall preferment and yet their faith was sound true for when they came to the knowledge of their errour they reformed it did still inseperably cleaue vnto him It is the great wisedome and mercie of the Lord for a time to hide from his children the sight of their infirmities and wants and nowithstanding their manifold weakenesses to afford vnto them the sence of his loue least they should be vtterly discouraged and faint vnder the burden for want of experience finding the entrance into life hard and difficult Naturall discretion teacheth vs to deale with children according to their abilitie not to dishearten them by exacting what is aboue their strength The like compassion doth the Lord shew to his by the comforts of his Spirit preparing them to endure the assaults of Satan § 6. Many Christians be exercised with this temptation that they cannot bee the children of God because they neuer had that deepe sorrow §. 6. 6. They neuer had that deep sorrow which many haue felt and long lying vnder it that many of their Brethren haue had Remedy God deales not with all alike Whereas they should know that not mens examples but Gods word must be our rule of direction The Lord dealeth not with all alike because in wisedome hee knoweth what is most meete for euery man Doth any man complaine because his ioynts are set or his wounds cured with little smart and paine The Physician knowes best the strength of his patient and what hee can beare what is necessarie for one would kill another It is good to grieue Faith may bee sound in theÌ„ who neuer found such depth of sorrow as others haue done because we can grieue no more for sinne But to doubt of Gods loue because he deales gently with vs least we should be swallowed vp of sorrow is great ignorance weaknesse and folly God many times keepes from his seruants the horrible and gastly aspect of their sinnes in wonderfull mercie least the horrour of them and Gods wrath due for them should ouer-whelme them Hos 2.14 Acts 16.14 15. If God by inticements and speaking to thy heart haue brought thee home vnto him thou hast cause to magnifie the tender mercie of the Lord who hath not dealt with thee after thine iniquities for had hee set thee vpon the racke as many haue beene thou hast reason to thinke thou hadst neuer beene able to beare it Feare of conscience griefe of minde doubtfulnesse of saluation commends no man to God neither is it against a man or with him in assuring himselfe of saluation whether he haue long or short time beene pressed with such sorrowes but that he be well freed and deliuered from such trouble and discharged of his feare § 7. A poore Christian is oft put to great plunges through the malice of Satan because there is much weaknesse of spirituall life in him hee neuer felt any great strength of grace in himselfe §. 7. 7. They neuer felt any great strength of grace and what he formerly felt is now decayed Remedy By this Temptation God doth chasten our pride and swelling of heart vnthankefulnesse discontinuance of care to cherish and increase receiued graces by meanes sanctified running into occasions of decay and cooling and contentment with a small pittance of grace faith holâ—nesse For all which sinnes and other of like kind we must vnfainedly humble our selues before God crauing pardon of his meere grace and mercie This Humiliation is a speciall meanes to ease the conscience as the wound doth cease raging when it is opened and well drawne Wee may haue true faith though we neuer had any great strength of grace And it must bee remembred that wee are but children and therefore weake yea and subiect to many spirituall diseases such as take away sence of life and therefore we must seeke to be cured and not despaire of life When any one part or member is distempered or ill at ease we despaire not of the safetie of the whole person but labour to cure and restore it to health againe so when wee haue offended wee should resort to the Physitian Christ Iesus make our complaint to him and bee confident for his promise sake that hee will helpe vs. And if they who haue falne and offended God Ier. 3.1 may turne home againe to their first Husband with good welcome shall not they much more bee beloued of him and comforted by him who haue not prouoked him but are only held downe through feare and infirmitie And though their graces bee small they may bee true whiles they bee small Little faith is faith as a little fire is fire God despiseth not little things in obedience offered to him In the sacrifices of the Law not the price of the gift but the abilitie and affection of the offerer was respected Luke 21.2 3 4. And if weaknesse of grace was any iust cause of feare who might assure himselfe of Gods loue Not one For though some haue grace in greater measure then others yet all are compassed with infirmities and haue not attained vnto perfection But it is not so much enquired how great or little as how sincere our faith and obedience is Faith if it bee vnfained though but as a graine of Mustard seed obedience if it bee heartie though mingled with many infirmities hath promise of gracious acceptation And the smallest beginnings are pledges of greater fauours where there is thankfull acceptance and conscionable vse of those alreadie receiued to the glory of the bestower § 8. If what was formerly felt bee now decayed in feeling euen in Gods dearest children there may be decay §. 8. 8. What they formerly felt is now decaied of graces in part and for a time Remedie Phil. 4.10 Math. 16.18 In Gods dearest children there may bee decay of graces Of the Philippians the
fruit of grace is called to come vnto Christ the fountaine of liuing waters that in him and by him he might be eased refreshed made fruitfull This gratious inuitation the poore soule must lay hold vpon and say within himselfe I will draw neere vnto the God of my saluation and trust in him for I haue his firme and stable promise that I shall be watered with grace and refreshed with comfort If I be hungrie hee hath plentie of prouision if barren drie and withered with him there is abundance of grace that I may be enriched § 10. The Deuill who goeth about like a roaring Lion seeking whom hee may deuoure will not spare to suggest to the contrite and humbled soule that God cannot or will not forgiue his transgressions which haue beene most hainous for qualitie many for number §. 10. 1. Pet. 5.8 10. Their sins be many in number and hainous for qualitie and in which hee hath long liued and continued And it may be the Lord would hereby correct our former conceits in the dayes of our vanitie Remedie that of all things pardon of sinnes is most easily obtained that it was but a sleight and small thing to sinne against God that wee might well enough take our fill of sinne for the time and turne to the Lo d in old age and sicknesse But withall this thought must be held to arise from Satan and shunned as repugnant to the truth of God The hainousnesse or number of our sins make vs not vncapable of mercie For the promise of pardon is made to repentant sinners without limitation to any time person qualitie or number of offences And for the remedie and remouall of this temptation first wee should humble our selues before God for our light esteeme of sinne and procrastination or delayes 2. Cor. 1.3 Esay 55.7 Iames 5.7 Ier. 3.1 2.3.13 14. 11. They feele the heauie burden of Gods wrath And then consider the endlesnes of Gods mercies in Christ the price which was paid for our redemption the sweet promises propounded in the Word the stablenesse and perpetuitie of the Couenant and the examples of great sinners receiued to mercie And what if a man sensibly feele the heauie burthen of Gods wrath and plainely discerne his frowning and angry countenance Though sence of Gods loue faile faith may continue strong Remedie Iob 13.15 Heb. 11.1 Faith may bee strong when wee haue no sence or feeling of mercie For faith is not grounded vpon sence and feeling but vpon Gods gracious promises immutable goodnesse and infallible truth Yea when sence and feeling cease then faith which is the euidence of things not seene beginneth it chiefe worke and the most excellent faith sheweth it selfe most clearely when we haue no sence or feeling or when we feele the plaine contrarie Faith looketh to the promise mercie power and truth of God and to the manner of his working and seeing his mercie is incomprehensible his power infinite his manner of working by contraries his truth firme and immoueable therefore in the greatest terrours it belieueth peace when God sheweth himselfe an enemie it apprehendeth him louing and mercifull and out of the deepest humiliation aboue sence or reason gathereth the sweetest consolation If euer we haue tasted of Gods loue and mercie liuely faith concludeth that wee are still in his loue and fauour Iames 1.17 Iohn 13 1 2. whatsoeuer we apprehend in our present sence and feeling for whom hee loueth to the end hee loueth them Yea faith goeth before experience or sence of mercie and waiteth for saluation in Christ in the depth of miserie grounding it selfe meerely vpon the Word of truth which cannot lie Wee belieue to taste the goodnesse of the Lord not because we haue felt alreadie how kind the Lord is though we may make vse of feelings past to sustaine vs in present agonies Experience and sence is a stay or prop for our better ease not the ground vpon which our faith leaneth and though it be shaken faith continueth firme If therefore at any time our sence and feeling tell vs one thing namely that God hath cast vs off foreuer and will neuer looke graciously vpon vs and the Word of God assure vs of another to wit that God doth loue vs and will neuer forsake vs vtterly wee are not to giue credit to our owne feeling but to Gods Word For our sence is oft deceiuing specially in matters of godlinesse but the Word of the Lord is sincere and abideth for euer In bodily diseases of some kinde wee trust more to the iudgement of a skilfull Physicion then to our owne conceits and shall we not thinke that God knowes our spirituall estate better then we our selues What can we belieue in matters of religion if we belieue not more then we can discerne by sence or reason The being of a thing and the sensible discerning of the thing to bee are diuers Howsoeuer at sometimes they concurre yet oftentimes they are seuered and disioyned Because the Sunne appeareth not to vs at Mid-night shall wee conclude that it neuer hath or will shine to vs againe Shall a childe imagine his Father neuer did or will truly loue him hereafter because for the present hee doth not admit him into his presence or afford him a fauourable and louely countenance No lesse absurd but more iniurious is it to our heauenly Father to coniecture that no grace or fauour is to bee sound with God seeing now the beames of his loue and mercie are hidden from vs. The dearest seruants of God who haue beene indued with most eminent graces and highly aduanced into speciall fauour with him haue yet in their owne sence apprehended wrath and indignation◠Psal 22.1 2. 38.3 4. 77.7 88.14 Ier. 20.14 15. instead of loue and fauour displeasure instead of comfort and trouble instead of peace Did God tenderly respect them when he seemed to teare them in pieces and to breake their bones like a roaring Lion and shall wee iudge of his affection by our present feeling § 11. But what if we haue long vsed the means of grace and can finde no comfort In this case §. 11. 12. They haue long vsed the meanes of grace and can finde no comfort Cant. 5.2.3 wee must repent of the former neglect to accept of grace offered and pray to God to forgiue and pardon it Wee must also examine our hearts with all care and diligence to finde out the sins which haply doe hinder comfort and bewailing the same stirre vp our selues to receiue the promises Remedy For oft times the entertaining of some bosome sinne which wee are loath to part withall is that which m kes the breach in our conscience And sometimes we walke without comfort not so much because God withholds it as that wee put it from vs The godly sometimes walke without comfort because they put it from themselues either not knowing that we are called to belieue or not
downe before them in the Word and not deiect themselues without cause as though they were vtterly destitute of faith in Christ because they want the sence of this assurance and so could doe nothing acceptable because it is not done in faith nor tire themselues in a preposterous course not knowâ—ng where to lay the foundation or beginne their worke Three prerogatiues doe euer accompany this confident assurance of our Reconciliation with God Three prerogatiues that accompany coâ—fident assurance First Peace with God or stable tranquillitie and sweet calmnesse of Minde Sinne had broken off our friendship and peace with God but being iustified by faith wee haue remission of sinnes and so the cause of enmitie being taken away peace is restored Esay 59.2 Phil 4.7 Euen that peace of God which passeth vnderstanding and is in stead of a guard to keepe our hearts and minds in Christ that golden Legacie which Christ bequeathed vnto his Disciples when hee left the World Iohn 14 27. Ephes 2.16 17. Rom. 5.1 Peace I leaue with you my peace I giue vnto you Being iustified by faith we haue peace with God through our Lord Iesus Christ And from this peace begins liuely consolation against the temptations of sinne Satan and the World from the sence hereof the faithfull soule may triumph with Dauid The Lord is with mee Psal 56.4 Rom 8.33.34 I will not feare what man can doe vnto me and with the Apostle Who shall lay any thing to the charge of Gods Elect It is God that iustifieth who is he that condemneth Secondly Free accesse vnto the throne of grace with boldnesse and confidence Christ as it were leading vs by the hand into the presence of God that we might enioy his grace in presence When wee were enemies wee fled from the throne of God but being reconciled by his grace we haue free accesse to come into his presence to aske what we will with assurance it shall be done vnto vs. Rom. 5.2 Ephes 2.8 By whom sc Christ also wee haue accesse by faith into this grace wherein we stand Thirdly Ioy in the Holy Ghost vnspeakable and glorious 1. Pet. 1.8 which doth so lift the faithfull aboue the Heauens that being cheared with the Essence of Gods fauour and contented with Christ alone they despise the world and the base things therein Rom. 5.2 3. We reioyce in hope of the glory of God And not only so but we glory in tribulations also Thus Dauid prayed Psal 51.8 12. Make mee to heare ioy and gladnesse Restore vnto me the ioy of thy saluation All these rare and pretious priuiledges spring from faith for without faâ—th no man can please God Heb. 11.8 by faith wee haue peace with God by faith we come vnto him by faith we reioyce in him Rom. 15.13 Phil. 1.25 The God of Hope fill you with all ioy and peace in belieuing In whom wee haue boldnesse and accesse with confidence by the faith of him But this faith which highly aduâ—nceth the Belieuer to boast in God all the day long lifteth not vp it selfe waxeth not proud towards the Lord. Free remission sweet peace assurance of Gods fauour familiar and heauenly communion with him and whatsoeuer rich token of speciall and intire good will God bestoweth these cannot puffe vp but abase the Belieuer in himselfe the higher hee is exalted by the free mercy of God the lower hee humbleth himselfe before God Ezek. 16.62 63 36.31 32. I will establish my couenant with thee and thou shalt know that I am the Lord That thou mayest remember and be confounded and neuer open thy mouth any more because of thy shame when I am pacified toward thee for all that thou hast done saith the Lord God Sixtly By faith we continue in this blessed state in sweet peace and fellowship with God We can neuer take the eye from Christ but immediately the remembrance of former sinnes doth trouble and vexe the conscience and daily weaknesses and infirmities will breed no small disturbance if we doe not sue forth a daily pardon Therefore as we belieue to Iustification so must we continue in belieuing for the actuall pardon of our daily trespasses The Apostle saith Rom. 4.5 God iustifieth the vngodly but by vngodly in that sentence of Paul he is meant who doth not bring his workes or merits nor looke to his graces qualities acts or vertues in the matter of Iustification but doth bewaile his impietie and flie to the throne of grace for pardon being conuinced of guiltinesse Thus Abraham was all his time comprehended in this Catalogue and is made by the Apostle as a perpetuall so a principall instance of that finall resolution Rom. 3.28 Therefore wee conclude that a man is iustified by faith without the workes of the Law For if belieuing in him that iustifieâ—h the vngodly was imputed for righteousnesse vnto Abraham afâ—er hee had beene for a long time more righteous then the ordinary sort of Gods Saâ—nts or chosen Abraham all this while vnfainâ—dly belieued himselfe to be a sinner no way iustified in himselfe but seeking to be iustified by him who if hee shew not mercy to sinners whilest they bee sinners all mankind should perish vtterly The drift and scope of Paul in the third and fourth to the Romanes is only this That although men may bee truly iust and holy in respect of others and rich in all manner of workes as Abraham was thus farre knowne and approued not by men only but by God yet when they appeare before Gods Tribunall who best knowes as well the imperfection as the truth of their integritie they still acknowledge themselues to bee vnprofitable seruants alwayes praying Lord forgiue vs our sinnes and be mercifull to our offences So that all men euen the most holy are sinners in themselues and in the sight of God in the Apostles sence and are iustified by grace not of debt after the infusion of supernaturall holinesse The sincere and vpright man in whose spirit there is no guile Psal 32.1 2. Rom. 4.4 5 6. is iustified not because of his sinceritie but because the Lord imputeth not that sinne vnto him which he still vnfainedly acknowledgeth to be in him continually praying Lord enter not into iudgement with thy seruant alwayes confessing Lord in thy sight no flesh liuing can be iustified Psal 143.2 to wit otherwise then by not entring into iudgement or by non-imputation of his sinnes And faith that layeth hold vpon the promise of mercie offered in Christ causeth a man euery day to humble himselfe for sinne and to seeke pardon by earnest prayer euery day it receiueth and feedeth vpon the promises made in Christ and so assureth that his sinnes are done away as a mist And thus a Christian may liue by faith for many dayes or rather all the dayeâ— of his life in sweet peace and communâ—on with God if hee will leaâ—ne to maintaine and tâ—ke paines to
before conuersion is sufficient to purge the conscience from sins after conuersion likewise We are commaunded to repent of taught to pray for the pardon of sinnes without exception It is of free mercy that former sinnes are couered and by the same mercy of God this trangression may be pardoâ—ed The mercy of God is euerlasting his couenant vnchangeable though we be vnfaithfull yet he cannot forget himselfe He delighteth to shew mercy and reioyceth in the soule that hath sinned but now lamenteth saying I haue sinned and it did not profit me The commaundement of god inioyning vs to forgiue our brother not seuen times but seuentie times seuen times if he repent is an expression of his readinesse to shew mercy to them who do oft and grevously offend if they returne by vnfained repentance and sue for mercy Oh then take heede that to other great and many sinnes infidelitie be not added Doubting begets deadnesse whereas lookâ—ng vp vnto the promises of mercy will both ease and soften the heart But they cannot belieue Indeeâ—e they thinke there is no promise of mercy made to them vpon which they should ground their confidence Therefore they must know that God calleth them in his word to come vnto him as if he did particularly name them and promiseth to receiue them vnto mercy and then they must consider of the frâ—e grace of God in promising and his faithfulnesse in making good whatsoeuer he hath promised that neither want of feeling nor conceit of vnworthinesse dis-hearten them from drawing nigh vnto him They must thinke seriously with themselues I neede mercy and the Lord hath promised it I thirst after it and the Lord will grant vnto mee my desire according to his promise I am vtterly vndone if I obtaine not helpe and helpe is not to bee found but in the Lord Iesus who louingly inuiteth me to come vnto him that I may be refreshed Seeing therefore I long for mercy the Lord makes offer of it in his dearely beloued Sonne I will goe vnto him and humble my soule before the throne of his grace I will entreate mercy and rolle my soule vpon the promise of saluation All my helpe is to looke off my selfe an obiect of confusion and looke vpon Christ an obiect of consolation therefore I cleaue vnto him as mine onely Sauiour and trust in him though he should kill me It doth not please God that I should stand alooffe and straine courtesie now he encourageth mee to come with confidence or giue way to doubtings now I haue his promise who neuer failed any that trusted in him who hath done more for me then euer he promised therfore I will goe vnto him in the mediation of Iesus Christ and importune his grace if I perish I will perish in his bosome to die for it nothing shall s perate me from his mercy A second cause of this slownesse may be ignorance of the way how this assurance is to be sought vpon what foundation it is to be laid in what ordeâ— they come vnto it Sometimes they mis-conceiue the promises as if they were offered only to Belieuers and not laid as the foundations of faith and thereupon falsely conclude that no promise is made vnto them because they cannot finde that they doe belieue Sometimes they mistake the nature of faith taking it to be a perswasion or assurance that their sinnes are pardoned and so conclude that they haue no faith because they want assurance when in the order of nature faith is precedent to actuall remission And many times Christians are herein deceiued that they feare to receiue and apply the promises of grace till they can finde in themselues such a measure of sanctification as is scarce if at all attaineable in this life These and such like blockes must bee remoued by good information acquainting themselues out of the word of God what faith is the order in which wee must climbe vp to assurance how the promises are to be receiued and what is the true vse of sanctification But two things are specially to be learned for their direction First that assoone as euer a man feeles sinne as a burden Isa 55.1 Ioh. 7 37. Numb 21.9 and doth truely earnestly feruently thirst to be eased of it he hath a calling to come vnto Christ to aske obtaine and receiue mercy He that was bitten with the fierie serpent was appointed to looke vp to the brasen Serpent that he might recouer Oh then delay no longer bee not held backe with vaine obiections and causelesse scruples Math. 11.28 1. Ioh. 3.24 Behold he calls thee to come why shouldest thou feare in respect of thy vilenes Faith is obedience and obedience is more acceptable then courtesie and complement The sooner thou commest the better welcome It is rudenesse and not good manners not to doe as thou art bidden to doe yea and so earnestly perswaded intreated and charged to do To doe the worke of God is to belieue in him whom he hath sealed and sent to be thy Sauiour Ioh. 6.29 And shâ—lt thou not tenne times more honour and please him in trusting vpon his mercies and sealing to his truth then in fearing his iustice and dreading his power Secondly hee that finds himselfe plunged into the gulfe of miserie by sinne and destitute of the sappe and fruite of grace is inuited to come vnto Christ that hee may receiue from him the grace of sanctification as well as remission Oh euery one that thirsteth Reu. 22.17 Isay 55.1.2 Ioh. 7.37.38 come yee to the waters Hee that belieueth out of his bellie shall flow riuers of water of life The barren in grace must come vnto Christ to be supplied of his fulnesse Gal. 3.14 By faith wee receiue the promised Spirit He that walloweth in sinne is not fitted to belieue for iustifying faith can neuer take sound rooting in the heart which is not resolued to forgoe the practice and hast cast off the loue of all sinne but when a man is wearie of sinne and finds emptinesse of grace as hee is commaunded to pray for mercy and the gifts of grace so is he to belieue in Christ for the obtaining of both Wherefore study striue endeuour to belieue and lay hold on the Rocke as in danger of drowning a man will doe on the tree or post that comes next to hand When thou hast in thy conceite most cause to despaire labour against it When thou hast no reason in thy apprehension to belieue belieue with all thy power when the fauour of God is lost to thy feeling it may be present to thy faith which discerneth what is promised though to sence it haue no being And for thine encouragement set before thine eies Christs freedome to all suiters in the time of his flesh repelling none who truely desiâ—ed the price of his bloud There be other causes of this weakenesse Directions to the weake to stirre vp themselues to bee when they feele no comfort which haue beene
bodie is wearie after labour and requires rest but sinne is euer stirring neuer quiet no not when occasions be wanting And that it might appeare out of measure sinfull it takes occasion by the commandement it resideth the good motions of the Spirit it disinâ—bleth to euery good worke it diffuseth it venome into euery action and leadeth captiue to the committing of sinne against knowledge and conscience The cursed earth is not so apt to bee ouer-growne with weedes bryars thornes and thistles as the soule with lusts passions distempers worldly cares and sinfull delights The law of the flesh rebelleth against the law of the minde and carrieth with violence to the workes of darknesse The Gally-slaues condition is very hard and miserable but the spirituall bond-slaue is in farre worse estate No drudgerie so base as the seruice of sinne no Tyrant so cruell as sinne which allowes no respite or time of refreshing Rom. 7.24 O miserable man that I am who shall deliuer me from this dominion of sinne this bodie of death I haue deeply defiled my selfe by transgression but haue no power to cleanse my heart O Lord I haue defaced thine Image but cannot repaire it I haue yeelded the powers of my soule to the obedience of sin and now I would cast off that subiection and breake those snares I am altogether vnsufficient for it When I would doe well euill is present with me Rom. 7.21 but I finde no meanes to perfect what I desire I cannot desire good my will is so in bondage I am not able to crawle about the doing of that which is good such is my feeblenesse but I want no strength to that which is euill I am apt and readie to goe astray I am inuironed and beset with sinne on euery side oh when shall I be set at libertie that I might doe the worke of God and runne the race of his Commandements Secondly He must looke to the grace truth and power of God who hath promised to sanctifie to the fulnesse and sufficiencie that is in Christ the fountaine of grace He who hath spoken this to mee Hold me and I will set thee free I will circumcise thy heart wash it purge it heale it of all sicknesses and infirmities he that hath spoken it is God Almightie who giueth Being to all visible creatures and that inuisible world of Spirits who calleth the things that are not as if they were who if there were no print of these things in me can worke and create them gloriously as at first he drew this excellent frame of the world out of that confused lumpe or Masse which hee made of nothing And as he is great in power so is he rich in mercie aboundant in goodnesse and truth as ready and faithfull to keepe as hee was free to make the promise His grace is vnsearchable his Word purer then siluer seuen times refined In my selfe I am full of sinne barren and destitute of grace but Christ is an ouer-flowing fountaine who hath plentifully filled all that belieue All the faithfull haue drawne of his fulnesse and yet his store is no whit diminished O my soule trust thou in the Lord and thou shalt be purged from thy filthines replenished with his grace Loe he calleth the thirstie who bee destitute of all sap and fruit of grace to come vnto him that they may be refreshed The Saints who haue beene most enriched with varietie of graces were by nature as poore and destitute as thou art What they had they receiued by faith Belieue as they did and speed with them Why criest thou out distrustfully by reason of thy barrennesse Doth the streaming fountaine denie water to the thirstie traueller No more doth Christ to the emptie parched soule that comes vnto him Thou hast no grace of thy selfe cleaue vnto him and thou shalt want none that may be for thy good He filleth the emptie and satisfieth the poore that he might be acknowledged the wel-spring of all grace and goodnesse Thirdly He must pray instantly vnto the Lord for sanctifying grace Faith obtaineth as a poore petitioner what the Lord promiseâ—h in speciall fauour nor can it belieue longer then it prayeth virtually or actually O Lord thou hast promised to powre water vpon the thirsty Esay 44.3 35.7 Ioel 2.28 and riuers vpon the dry ground I pray thee wash mee throughly from my filthinesse and water me bountifully with the dew of thy grace which may coole and allay the scorching heate of sinne Zech 13.1 Thou hast opened a fountaine to the house of Dauid and to the inhabitants of Ierusalem for sinne and for vncleannesse let the streames thereof flow vpon my drie and barren soule that it may be fruitfull in the workes of holinesse O put thy good Spirit into me which may be as a fountaine of liuing waters springing vnto eternall life Fourthly It is good to moue and quicken the heart quietly to rest in the promise and reioyce in hope Waite on the Lord O my soule and bee glad in him for hee hath giuen Christ to be thy Sanctification He is appointed to bee the beginner and finisher of thy holinesse and surely he will not leaue that worke imperfect whereunto he is ordained of the Father Were the progresse of that building commited to thy care and ouer-sight there might bee cause of feare but since it is laid vpon him thine onely and all-sufficient Redeemer there is no place for doubting Hold him fast and thou art safe Lord increase my faith and keepe me close vnto thee in belieuing for euermore CHAP. IIII. What it is to liue by Faith concerning the promises of euerlasting life AS if it were a light thing that God should forgiue all our sinnes Psal 103.3 4. and heale our infirmities he hath giuen promise of euerlasting life to bee conferred of his rich grace vpon them that belieue in Iesus Christ God so loued the world that he gaue his onely begotten Sonne that whosoeuer belieueth in him should not perish but haue euerlasting life Eternall life is promised Iohn 3.16 And Christ hath purchased life euerlasting no lesse for vs then righteousnesse Heb. 10.19 20. By the bloud of Iesus we may be hold to enter into the Holiest by the new and liuing way which he hath consecrated for vs through the vaile that is to say His flesh For this cause hee is the Mediatour of the New Testament Heb. 9.15 that by meanes of death for the redemption of the transgressions that were vnder the first Testament they which are called might receiue the promise of eternall inheritance And therefore as he is said to haue made reconciliation for iniquitie Dan. 9.24 2 Tim. 1.10 and to haue brought in euerlasting righteousnesse so also to haue abolished death and brought life and immortalitie to light And he makes promise of euerlasting life to them that heare and obey his voice Iohn 10.27 28. Marke 16.16 Acts 16.31 Iohn 6.40 20 31. 1
many gratious promises whereby God doth freely passe it vpon vs Ps 119.5.6 and earnestly beggeth the powerfull effectuall inhabitation of the Spirit to stampe and imprint the Image of Christ more and more vpon the soule it peruseth it euidence againe and againe and nourisheth the motions stirreth vp the graces of the Spirit which is the earnest pennie and seâ—le of the promised inheritance If Men make an earthly purchase they wil spare no cost or labour to get it assured they will haue good euidence fine and recouerie and take what course in time may exempt it from claime and faith receiuing the promise of this purchased inâ—eritance will not rest in vncertainties or presumption but doth trauaile to haue it assuredly passed and made vpon the soule Sixtly It striueth to enter the possession of this heauenly kingdome by degrees Phil. 3.10.12.13 Men that purchase an inheritance to come in hereafter they are glad if any part fall into their hands for the present or if they can get some by parcels before the whole be possessed Fulnesse of glory is reserued to the life to come but beginnings of glory peace of conscience ioy in the holy Ghost and sanctification of the Spirit are vouchsafed here Grace is the beginning of glory and glory the perfection of grace According to the measure of grace receiued and as we grow vp in Sanctification so wee enter vpon the possession of our eternall inheritance And true liuely faith doth couet grace more and more and draw vnto it selfe from Christs fulnesse Seuenthly It earnestly desires and longeth after the full accomplishment of glory Rom. 8.13 Our selues also which haue the first fruits of the Spirit euen wee our selues groane within our selues waiting for the Adoption to wit the redemption of the Body I desire to depart and to be with Christ which is farre better Phil. 1.23 Saluation is the end of faith Heauen the habitation or home of the faithfull For in this we grone earnestly 2. Cor. 5.2 desiring to be clothed vpon with our house which is from Heauen Naturall bodies moue to their proper place all liuing things couet perfection in their kind heauen is the proper place and condition of the faithfull life eueâ—lasting the perfection of faith therefore if faith bee liuely it longeth after the fruition of glory and full possession of the promised inheritance Eightly It assureth that wee are made heire of euerlasting life to which God of his grace will bring vs in his time appointed 1 Iohn 3.1 Behold what loue the Father hath bestowed vpon vs that we should be called the sons of God Beloued Verse 2. now are wee the sonnes of God and it doth not yâ—t appeare what we shall be Verse 14. We know that we haue passed from death vnto life because we loue the brethren Neither doth the manner of speaking sauour of ought but certaintie neither could it agree with the grauitie of the Apostle to speake so indefinitely so indeterminately of that whereof hee had no certaine ground no firme resolution but onely some likely guesse or coniecturall hope And grant it of Iohn the Apostles that they knew their owne Adoptâ—on and we may inferre that this knowledge is a priuiledge of all belieuers in their measure as well as theirs 2. Pet. 1.1 Rom. 8.34.35.36 37. 1. Iohn 2.2 Rom. 5.1.2.3 For the faith whereby they were assured was ordinarie the grounds of assurance common to them with all true belieuers the benefite it selfe generall not in any speciall manner appropriated What promises soeuer concerning life and happinesse were made to the Apostles the same are made to all belieuers and confirmed and sealed vnto them after the same manner For they haue all one God Eph 4.4.5.6 one Christ one Spirite they are vnder one Couenant and liue by the same faith The Adoption of Belieuers is confirmed on Gods part vnto them by his word seales oath pledge and witnesse of his Spirit with the graces thereof And what God so sufficiently confirmeth we by faith may receiue it for faith inableth vs to belieue what God reuealeth Faith giueth assurance but euery belieuer is not assured in himselfe Psal 31.22 and 77.7 Psal 42.5 and 43.3 Exod. 19.5 Psal 135.4 Cant. 7.6 Psa 16.5 Deut 32.9 Psal 83.3 Mal. 3.17 Zech. 2.8 Psal 108.6 and 127.2 Cant. 8.6 Esay 49.16 Ioh 14.23 Iâ—s 1.9 Psal 109.31 and 12.5 Psal 73.23 Psal 27.5 1. Sam 2.9 Psalm 56.8 Math. 10.30 Psal 38.9 Ier. 31.20 Deut. 33.29 1. Pet. 5.10 Phil. 4.19 Psal 62.2.6.7 and 71.5 Ioel 3.16 2. Cor. 1.3 Psal 25 12. Heb. 13.21 Exo. 29.46 Reue. 21.3 2. Chron 16.9 Psal 37 4. and 145.19 Prou. 10.24 nor is any assurance in this life so certaine that it is neuer intermixed nor disturbed with doubtings There is a state in which faith sheweâ—h it selfe rather in earnest longings and paintings after mercy then in certaine apprehension of it there is a state of infancie a state of temptation and spirituall conflict in which the soule cannot attaine this certaintie and assurance And euen in the growen and confirmed state the belieuer must not looke to walke on smoothly without any rubs or to enioy perfect assurance without doubtings and assaults The assurance of this belieuer is an assurance aiming and striuing after assurance an assurance wrestling and combating with many assaults an assurance which labours wiâ—h continuall weakenes and lookes not to come to perfection but by temptations But of this before God in great mercy doth vouchsafe to his Adopted sonnes many excellent royalties in this life They are most pretious vnto him His chiefe treasure His loue for delights his peculiar people the lot of his inheritance his chosen his hidden ones his iewels Hee that toucheth them toucheth the apple of his eye They are his Beloued as the signet vpon his right hand Hee dwelleth with them he followeth them whither soeuer they goe hee stands at their right hand and holds them vp by it Hee coueâ—s them vnder his pauillion hee keepes their feete hee counts their wandrings hee numbreth their heires hee obserâ—es their sighes is moued with compassion vpon their complaints hee is the shield of their helpe the sword of their excellencie and the God of all grace who will fulfill all their necessities Hee is their hope their helpe their health their rocke their refuge the Father of mercies and God of all consolation Hee will teach them in the way that they should choose and make them perfect in good workes He will establish them in euery good word and worke he will walke with them his eye is euer vpon them for good and he will giue them their hearts desiâ—e They haue the Angels of God to minister vnto them for theâ—r safeguard and protection Heb. 1.14 Psal 34 7. 1. Cor. 3.22.23 Heb. 2.7.8 1. Tim 4.2.3 they haue dominion ouer the creatures of the earth and the free vse of them both for necessitie and
promised Awake my soule why sleepest thou arise and lay hold vpon the promises of life which God of his great mercy in Iesus Christ doth offer vnto thee in the Gospell Be not dismayed by reason of thine vnworthinesse for the promise is of grace freely offered and freely giuen to them that be most vnworthy in their owne eyes Thou art vnworthy of the least crumme of mercy but of his rich mercie God hath made promise of highest aduancement vnto thee 2. Cor. 6.18 if thou wilt embrace it I will be a Father vnto you and ye shall be my sonnes and daughters saith the Lord Almighty He that ouercommeth shall inherit all things And I will be his God he shall be my sonne Apoc. 21.7 Rom. 9.26 And it shall be in the place where it was said vnto them ye are not my people that there they shall be called the children of the liuing God Life eternall is giuen of grace not sold for works receiued by faith not purchased by desert and the more worthlesse thou art in thy owne lowly conceit the more shal the grace of God be magnified in thine exaltation Christ hath purchased righteousnesse euerlasting life belieue in him and liue for euer The Son of God debased himselfe to become the Sonne of Man Gal 4 4 5. Phil. 2.7 8. and to be made vnder the law that he might redeeme vs that were vnder the Law that wee might receiue the Adoption of sonnes Oh the bountifulnesse and loue of God to man Titus 3 4. by so great a price to purchase so high a dignity that we shold bee called the Sonnes of God and bee pertakers with Christ of all his glorie in his Fathers kingdome O my soule why art thou so dull and sluggish Wherefore dost thou not put forth thy selfe to embrace and receiue such an inestimable benefit If the worth of things may be measured by their price well then may the Sonship of true Belieuers be valued at the highest rate Who can sufficiently admire the dignitie of this estate to be the Sonne of God which could not bee procured saue only by this infinite price the making of him become nothing by whom God in the beginning made euery thing It is esteemed a matter of great honour to be the seruant of the Prince in some speciall place of eminencie in the Common-wealth How doe men seeke and sue for such Offices how do they reioyce when their desires are accomplished But there is no comparison betwixt the seruant of a Prince and the Sonne of God the fauour of a Prince and the Fatherly loue of God the dignitie of the Court and the Ioyes of Heauen a temporall office and an eternall inheritance It is better and more honourable to be the seruant of God then the Commander of men to be an heire apparant to Heauen then the possessor of the whole World There is a great opinion and not without iust cause of the estate of our first Parents Adam and Eue whilest they were in Paradise before their fall But their estate notwithstanding all their priuiledges ornaments and fauours exceeded not the condition of seruants Had they continued in obedience to their Creator they should haue beene exempted from all miserie and confirmed in perfect blessednesse But they could neuer haue attained this dignitie To bee made the Sonnes of God by Adoption of meere rich and vndeserued loue in Christ And is it not an admirable prerogatiue to bee brought by Christ into a more excellent state then that which Adam in his innocencie and glorie had iust cause to wonder at The low degree from which we are raised doth commend this and as the gratiousnesse of him who preferreth so the excellencie of that state whereunto the Belieuer is exalted Of the seruants of sinne to be made the Sonnes of God of the vassals of Satan to bee taken to raigne with Christ in glory for euermore of children of wrath dead in trespasses to be begotten againe to the hope of an inheritance immortall vndefiled that fadeth not what an vnspeakable fauour is this O my soule arise stirre vp thy selfe stedfastly to receiue the promise of life and hold it fast for Gods promises are certaine neuer lesse but rather more in accomplishment then in tender Enter possession and get the inheritance sealed vnto thee Would not a poore Beggar if he should vnderstand of some great and goodly inheritance bequeathed vnto him in a farre countrey much reioyce therein long to goe see it and take possession of it In matters of weight men loue great earnest and good assurance for great aduantage they will endure any paines hazard many difficulties Did men know the worth and glory of the kingdome of Heauen freely offered and that without all expiration of time to be possessed here in part of them that will receiue it fully hereafter when their dayes on earth be determined would they not seeke it with all earnestnesse inquire after good euidence get sound assurance and labour the possession of it more and more Men seeke earthly things and often misse of their desires but the promise of Heauen is sure and stedfast and hee that resteth vpon the Lord shall not bee confounded Euerlasting life is freely offered but men are not left at libertie whether they will receiue and seeke it or no. John 3.36 Hee that belieueth on the Sonne hath euerlasting life and he that belieueth not the Sonne shall not see life but the wrath of God abideth on him Doe not they perish worthily who preferre the pleasures of sinne and honours of this transitorie life before life euerlasting promised of grace purchased by Christ full laden with all fruits of true life ioy peace and all choicest pleasures beyond comparison exceeding whatsoeuer can be enioyed in this world both in worth and endlesse settlednesse The labour to make Heauen sure which is full of pleasure and delight doth ease the heart of many burdensome distracting and cutting care For if thou be the childe of God Ephes 2.18 3.12 thou hast libertie to come into his presence and to make thy requests knowne vnto him with thankesgiuing Nothing that is truly euill shall betide thee The plague shall not come nigh thy Tabernacle Psal 91.10.13 Thou shalt walke vpon the Lion and Aspe and tread them vnder feet God will prouide all things necessary for soule and bodie and see that no good thing be wanting vnto thee Psal 34.10 Math. 6.33 Seeke first the kingdome of God and his righteousnesse and all these things shall be added vnto you What then should withdraw or hold me backe from belieuing the promise and seeking the possession of that inheritance It is God who hath freely pâ—omised it who can and will performe whatsoeuer hee hath spoken it is Christ who hath purchased it by the sacrifice of himselfe once for all why then should I doubt I am commanded to belieue and belieuing the possession of life is gâ—uen
And whilst they distrustfully question their perseuerance all present fauours seeme lesse then otherwise they would all other promises be held the more weakly Satan takes aduantage to fill their hearts with manifold discomforts God I denie not doth order these temptations to the best will do his children good by them for hereby they are driuen to distrust themselues run vnto God relie vpon him in all their necessities neuerthelesse the many perplexities wherein they are entangled for want of faith in the promises of perseuerance doth sufficiently conuince how necessary it is wee should labour to haue our hearts established in this confidence that the Lord will neuer leaue vs nor forsake vs. Confidence in the promises of perseuerance doth encourage and quicken in a Christian course stablish in wel-doing and hearten against the greatest difficulties Preuention of an obiection Or old it hath beene obiected against the doctrine of assurance of not falling away that it doth set open a doore to all licentiousnesse for if men cannot fall from their estate of happinesse why should they feare to commit all kind of wickednesse But he that hath faith in-deed will not nay hee cannot take courage to goe on in sinne vpon this pretence that faith once had cannot vtterly bee lost The belieuer knowes himselfe bound to the obedience of the Gospell though he be freed from the damnation of the law and certaine it is that faith which knits to Christ doth leade vs forth in all holinesse Psal 130 4. Mercie couering sinne doth beget reuerence the more assurance of saluation in a mans soule the more feare and trembling in a mans course Hee who is best assured hath most power of Gods Spirit and the stronger the Spirit of God is within the more holinesse and fruits of grace without Paul was assured that nothing should seperate him from the loue of God in Christ 1. Cor 9.27 2. Tim. 4.7 8. Peter was assured that his faith should not faile did this make them the more carelesse Nay rather the more carefull to runne their race the more couragious to fight out their combate 1. Iohn 4.19 The load-stone of loue is loue Loue in the superiour doth draw loue from the inferiour is it then possible for vs to apprehend such vnspeakable loue of God in choosing vs to such an excellent happy vnchangeable condition and not bee affected to loue the Lord againe Of necessitie the faith which continueth must be liuely nor can it imbrace the promises of perseuerance but whilest it is liuely The more operatiue faith is the greater our assurance of future standing if faith be dormant or languish for a time for that time wee are to seeke of this comfort nor can it be recouered till faith recouer and put forth it selfe valiantly in combating against Satan subduing corruption and working righteousnesse Looke how much we come short in belieuing the faithfull promises of God concerning our future protection from all hurtfull euils the greatest whereof is falling away so much are wee lacking to sound peace and stable tranquillitie of Minde and Conscience The better we haue learned to liue by faith in Christ as the Authour and finisher of our faith and raiser of vs vp at the last day the greater and more stedfast is our comfort The men of this world be not satisfied with the possession of their purchased inheritance but they seeke to strengthen and assure their title against future claimes before they can be quiet When a Christian is acquainted with the promises of pardon and forgiuenesse belieueth in Christ for saluation and is reconciled vnto God When his conscience is purged that there remaineth no more terrible remembrance of sinnes past his lusts subdued and vanquished his heart quieted from all perturbations and all inward disturbance which was in man against himselfe done away and when these things are knowne vnto the Conscience yet one thing is wanting to sound and full peace that is holy securitie for time to come against all enemies both inward and outward that they shall not hunt vs much lesse preuaile against vs. For if what we possesse may vtterly be lost or what we hope and expect be meerely vncertaine and coniecturall built vpon the good vse of our free-will and not vpon the free and vnchangeable grace of God what rest or quiet in respect of his future estate can any man finde in himselfe But let the heart be established in this that God will carrie him forward from grace to grace till hee haue brought him to his euerlasting Kingdome that his faith shall neuer faile the graces of the Spirit shall neuer wither and decay Satan with all his malice the world with the manifold allurements thereof shall neuer preuaile against him this freeth from much heart-griefe perplexitie distrustfull sorrow and vnprofitable trouble when he feeles his owne weaknesse thinkes of Satan and the worlds power heares of the falls of some who haue gone farre in the profession of godlinesse and casts with himselfe what persecutions may be raised against him for the truth and Gospell This also refresheth the heart with sweet and heauenly comfort in the midst of those many trials and incumbrances which we doe and must make account to meet with all and this our heauenly Father knew to bee no more then necessarie for our chearefull walking before him For the which cause I also suffer these things 2. Tim. 1.12 neuerthelesse I am not ashamed for I know whom I haue beliued and I am perswaded that he is able to keepe that which I haue committed vnto him against that day The Godly are allowed to belieue their perseuerance And seeing God hath promised to perfect the worke of grace begun and bound himselfe by couenant to confirme strengthen and stablish his children vnto the end and in the end to giue them eternall life such as find any true and liuely worke of grace wrought in them are allowed from God to belieue that they shall neuer perish nor quite be broken off from Christ nor those liuing waters cleane be dried vp but notwithstanding their owne infirmities and the sore temptations wherewith they are oppressed they shall be preserued vpheld and kept vnto saluation For what God hath confirmed by promise and couenant vnto his children vndertaken to effect by his Almightie power and ratified by earnest and pawne that they are allowed to belieue and expect from him of his vnchangeable grace and loue This is the golden and indissoluble chaine which the Apostle speakes of Rom. 8.30 Whom he did predestinate them also he called and whom he called them he also iustified and whom he iustified them he also glorified Luke 22.32 Math. 6.13 so that effectuall vocation is a pledge and token of glorification to ensue Christ hath prayed for his people that their faith might not faile the faithfull pray instantly Iohn 16.23 Lead vs not into temptation and that no man
towards Heauen keepe my standing or withstand the least assault In paine I am pettish vnder crosses faint heartlesse discontent readie to flie at the sound of persecution secure in prosperitie puffed vp with comforts apt to bee led away with worldly allurements My spirituall taste is distempered with carnall vanities which rellish sweeter to me then the mercies of God in Christ mine appetite to the Word and food of life is abated my zeale decayed mine affections dull to good my deuotion cooled my conscience benummed I heare but feed not vpon the Word my Prayers are cold heartlesse rouing in earthly imployments I keepe no moderation daily weaknesses and lesser sinnes goe downe without reluctation the motions of the spirit quickly die the motions of the flesh liue and get strength admonition is fruitlesse reproofe vnwelcome in my course I am ready to stumble at euery rub linger after euery baite laide by Satan or the world to catch mee and totter vpon the smallest tentation Euery day I haue greater experience of my weakenesse then other soone distempered and put out of frame if by any meanes for a little time my heart bee brought into some better order I am forgetfull of my purposes negligent of the opportunities to get good distracted with lawfull busines and wearie of the woâ—kes of my calling perplexed at the troubles I meete wâ—th giuing way to forwardnesse not looking vp to God vnthankefull for mercies trifling out the the time in foolish surmises vaine ploddings and vnprofitable speeches The poore leane thinne fruits of grace which through the mercie of God now and then I espie in my selfe these proclaime my sicke and feeble state my thoughts and meditations of good poore and few striuings agâ—inst sin weake appetite to the wholsome food of life small digestion slow obedience mâ—ruellous defectiue and in a manner liuelesse I liue vnder the powerfull meanes of grace enioy many helps in priuate am free from many great tentations wherewith others are exercised in respect of their outward condition blessed with the societie of them that feare God pruned and dressed by my heauenly Father and yet I reele wauer am tossed too and fro and ready to fall vpon euery occasion Ah wretched man that I am how shall I bee able to stand if the meanes should faile persecucutions bee raised or the powers of Hell let loose vpon mee Secondly He must stirre vp himselfe to rest vpon God through Iesus Christ for establishment and conformation Why should I feare by reason of mine infirmities or the malice of my spirituall enimies I am sicke but God is my physitian weake but God is my rocke my strength my high tower I like a lost sheepe am readie to goe astray but the Lord is my Sheepheard and will not suffer me to perish Christs intercession is euer effectuall but he hath prayed that my faith should not faile and promised that the gates of hell shall not preuaile The sons of Adam mortall by birth can neuer grow beyond the state of mortalitie the children of God borne of immortall seede can neuer fall from the state of immortalitie True faith is a neuer fading faith the life of grace an euerlasting life the water of life a well springing vnto eternall life Christ once died for sinne neuer to die any more and he that liueth in Christ shall liue for euer Indeed if faith were the worke of freewill or had dependance vpon it it might well perish but being the intire gift of God according to his purpose of grace it must needs pertake of the vnchangeable loue of God which is the fountaine whence it springeth I will walke iealous of my selfe because feeble and apt to offend but confident in Gods mercie and grace because he is faithfull who shall confirme mee vnto the end and perfect his worke hee hath begun My care shall be to feede vpon the word of life to shunne sinne and the occasions leading thereunto to cry for aide and strength and when I feele my selfe readie to sinke I will hang vpon the Lord for his power shall sustaine mee his right hand shall vphold mee and by his might I shall be keept through faith vnâ—o saluation A bruised reede shall he not breake and smoking flaxe shall hee not quench Math. 12.20 2. Cor. 12.9 till he sende forth iudgement into victorie his power shall be magnified in my weaknesse Thirdly He must pray instantly that God would vphold him and make him to see that hee will establish him vnto the end Our strength is of God and it is of him that wee know or be assured that through the power of his grace we shall stand firme and vnmoueable The state of a Belieuer is sure and it is impossible the elect should bee deceiued but as they stand by the grace of God so it is of God that they know their standing O Lord God of heauen the great and terrible God that keepeth couenant and mercy for them that rest vpon thy gratious promise and desire to yeelde vp themselues in obedience to thy Commaundements loooke mercifully vpon mee thy weake vnworthy seruant heale mine infirmities for they are many and stablish mee by thy free Spirit for I am brought very low Remember I beseech thee Ier. 32.39 40. the word of thy coâ—eâ—ant saying I will giue them one heart and one way that they may feare mee for euer for the good of them and of their children after them And I will make an euerlasting couenant with them that I will not turne away from them to doe them good but I will put my feare in their hearts that they shall not depart from mee Now I am thy poore creature the woâ—ke of thine hands whom thou hast made thy poore seruant with whom thou hast striken couenant vnto whom thou hast shewed this mercie that I desire to feare thy Name O Lord I beseech thee teach mee thy way make me to walke in thy truth vnite my heart to thy feare confirme strengthen stablish me vnto the end and make mee to know that by thy power I shall bee inabled to stand fast and vanish the enemies of my saluation that I may fight manfully obey cheerefully persist vndaunted and reioyce in thy saluation all the dayes of my life CHAP. VI. How to liue by faith in time of Temptation when Satan encounters and seekes to winnow the poore seruants of Christ NO sooner doth a Christian set himselfe vnfainedly to seeke the Lord 1. Pet. 5.8 but Satan with all his malice subteltie might and furie doth make out after him assaying by inward suggestions and outward tentations agaâ—ne and againe reiterated to discourage turne backe and vtterly ouer throw him The seruants of Christ are all souldiers and haue continuall warre not with flesh and bloud Eph. 6.11.12 but with principalities and powers and spirituall wickednesses This they must expect they haue sworne it and are called vnto of the Lord Encouragements to resist Satan who for
come yea that whole time a man hath to spend from the very act of his Baptisme to his death For as it is the seale of a free euerlasting vnchangeable couenant so is the force and vse of it perpetuall Baptisme is the true Sacrament of repentance for remission of sinnes and spirituall renouation which being once receiued remaineth a perpetuall testimonie and pledge of the euerlasting Couenant of God and continuall washing away of sinne by the bloud of Christ and the Spirit of sanctification By singular appropriation it representeth and confirmeth ouâ— engâ—affing into Christ The vse to bee made of our Baptisme is two-fold but withall it sealeth the whole Couenant of grace The vse of Baptisme is twofold First It serues to be a pledge and token of Gods fauour and that diuers wayes First In that it is a seale of our regeneration by the holy Spirit whereby a diuine qualitie is infused into vs in the roome and place of originall corruption And therefore Baptisme as the text is ordinarily expounded is called the labour of regeneration Titus 3.5 it being an vsuall thing to call the principall cause and the instrument by the same name Secondly It sealeth and confirmeth vnto vs the free pardon and forgiuenesse of our sinnes Acts 2.38 Repent and be baptized euery one of you in the Name of Iesus Christ Acts 22.16 for the remission of sinnes Arise and be baptized and wash away thy sinnes calling on the Name of the Lord. Thirdly Baptisme is a pledge of the vertue of Christs death and of our fellowship therein Rom. 6.3 Doe yee not know that all wee who haue beene baptized into Iesus Christ haue beene baptized into his death Fourthly It is also a pledge of the vertue of Christs life and of our communion with him therein The life of Christ is the life of euery belieuer who liueth in Christ and shall liue for euer with him and in him a certaine pledge whereof he hath giuen vs in this Sacrament Rom. 6.5 For if wee haue beene planted together in the likenesse of his death we shall be also in the likenesse of his resurrection Buried with him in Baptisme Col. 2.12 wherein also you are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God who hath raised him from the dead Fiftly Bâ—ptisme is a pledge of our adoption in Iesus Christ By nature we are the children of wrath but by grace and adoption the sonnes of God through faith in Christ which is sealed in Baptisme wherein the name of the Father Sonne and holy Spirit is put vpon vs. When Iacob blessed the sonnes of Ioseph Ephraim and Manasses Gen. 48.16 saying Let my name be named on them hee adopted them for his sonnes to haue inheritance with them in the land of Canaan and when God putteth his name vpon vs hee signifieth and assureth that wee are his sonnes Yee are all the children of God by faith in Christ Iesus Gal. 3.26 27. For as many of you as haue beene baptized into Christ haue put on Christ Sixtly Baptisme is a solemne testimonie of our communion with all the liuely members of Christ Iesus It is a seale of the bond of mutuall loue and fellowship both of Christ with his members and of his members one with another 1. Cor. 12.13 For by one Spirit are wee all baptized into one bodie whether wee be Iewes or Gentiles whether wee bee bond or free Ephes 4.5 And Baptisme is one of those things whereby the vnitie of the Spirit is preserued in the bond of peace Seuenthly It is a seale and pledge to assure that God will prouide for vs in this life raise vp our bodies vnto life at the last day of Iudgement and bestow vpon vs that euerlasting Kingdome and Inheritance which hee hath prepared Marke 16.16 Titus 3.5 6 7. 1. Pet. 3.21 For in Baptisme the Lord doth promise to bee our God that hee will prouide vs of all things necessarie for soule and bodie turne all euils which doe befall in this miserable life to the furtherance of our saluation raise vp our bodies at the last day and receiue vs vnto himselfe to dwell with him for euermore In all which respects Baptisme is of great force to strengthen faith and ease the heart in distresse For when the repentant sinner feeles himselfe heauie laden with the burden of his sinnes when Satan tempts him to doubt or despaire in regard of his corruptions when his owne corruption moueth him to sinne and he is euen now in the combate the Spirit lusting against the flesh and the flesh lusting against the Spirit and when hee is deeply perplexed with feare of falling away then the consideration and remembrance of what was promised and sealed in Baptisme will serue to stay support and comfort the soule For there hee shall find that his name is written in the couenant of God that God hath promised to giue Christ to be his Redeemer to accept of Christs satisfaction for him to wash away all his sinnes as certainly as the water washeth away the filth of the bodie and hauing such a faithfull promise confirmed by seale wherefore should he be dismayed In Baptisme also God hath sealed vnto him the mortification of his sinne by the power of Christs death which is the ground of confidence that God will enable him to ouercome the rebellious lusts of his heart and crucifie the old man more and more vntill the bodie of sinne be vtterly destroyed True it is that man by nature is dead in sin but in Baptisme God of his mercie hath sealed vnto the belieuer his rising from the death of sinne to newnesse of life True it is that of our selues wee are prone to fall away from grace receiued But God of his rich grace sealeth vnto the faithfull in Baptisme a Resurrection vnto immortall life which shall grow daily but neuer decay Rom. 6.9 10. If the faithfull be afflicted and despised of men persecuted and forsaken cast out the visible Congregation and banished from the hoâ—se of God yea euen in the agonies of death the remembrance of the promises sealed in Baptisme will afford comfort For if men haue forsaken God hath receiuâ—d them If men scorne and contemne the Lord will acknowledge them Hee hath long agoe sealed them for his owne receiued them into his family vndertaken to prouide for them and adopted them as heires apparant to the Kingdome of Heauen If God had giuen them his word alone for securitie it had beene sufficient But hauing confirmed it by seale in Baptisme they haue great cause to rest assured True it is they may be cast out of the visible assembles but they can neuer be cut off from the inuisible Communion of Saints they must die but God hath sealed vnto them their rising from the graue to euerlasting life by the power and vertue of Christs Resurrection which is a comfort of all comforts able to vphold the soule
of man in the houre of death II. Vse The second vse of Baptisme it is a seale of our dutie promised and so a spurre and prouocation to repentance faith new-obedience brotherly loue and vnitie First It is a spurre to repentance and mortification for Baptisme doth seale remission of sinnes to them only that repent Marke 1.4 and by Godly sorrow come home vnto God And as we expect the blessing we must looke that we faile not in the condition If wee bee buried with Christ in Baptisme it is our dutie to mortifie the flesh wâ—th the affections and lusts that it may liue no longer to bring forth fruits vnto death For a dead man cannot liue By solemne oath wee are bound to crucifie vnruly lusts which fight against the soule and shall we falsifie so great a promise Against whom should we fight if not against Satan or what will hee bee willing to spare for the Lords sake who will not part with his sinnes Why should wee feare the strength of Satan the power of sinne the rage of persecutors the losse of earthly things or despaire because of the wrath of God iustly kindled against sinne If we turne vnto God by vnfained repentance wee haue his faithfull promise confirmed by seale that he will bee mercifull vnto our sinnes enable vs to ouercome our corruptions fortifie vs against the powers of Hell support vs vnder or deliuer vs out of all trials and gratiously prouide whatsoeuer shall be needfull for vs. Secondly It is a prouocation vnto faith and a pledge thereof We haue the promise of God v der his hand and seale that he will wash vs fâ—om our iniâ—ities receiue vâ— for his children remember our necessities bestow vpon vs the Kingdome of Heauen wee shall doe great wrong and dishonour to God if wee doubt or make question whether hee will performe promise freely made and confirmed by couenant and seale Wee are bound by commandement to belieue in Iesus Christ and to commit our selues wholly vnto him as vnto a faithfull Sauiour And we haue bound our selues by promise couenant and seale that wee will belieue and cleaue vnto him as our only Sauiour shall wee then goe backe grow remisse or giue way to doubting If doubtings arise through the sight of sinne or want of sense and feeling comfort or the world begin to creepe into the heart and diuide it from Christ let vs then remember wee haue troth-plighted our selues to Iesus Christ and by faithfull promise neuer â—o bee called backe giuen our selues wholly to rest and sticke close vnto him and therefore must admit no thought whereby we should be drawne aside or diuided â—rom him Thirdly It is an incitement vnto new obedience and a pledge thereof Rom. 6.4 We are buried with him by Baptisme into death that like as Christ was raised vp from the dead by the glory of the Father Euen so wee also should walke in newnesse of life in which Chapter the Apostle disputeth of our actions that wee should abstaine from euill and follow those that are good Wee haue solemnely sworne to fight against the Deuill the World and the Flesh and hauing taken the presse-money of Iesus Christ it were an immortall disgrace to accept of truce with Satan Wee carrie the badge and liuerie of Iesus Christ and shall we forsake our colours and fight for the Deuill It is strange that children should leaue their parents and take part with their enemies Wee haue giuen our selues vnto God and were once dedicated vnto his seruice shall we now turne backe and offer our selues vnto Satan Honour is due vnto parents If God bee our Father wee must freely submit our selues to his will and pleasure God will strengthen vs to obey and accept of weake if sincere obedience and that shuts forth all place of excuse If wee bee engrafted into the similitude of Christs resurrection wee must expresse by our actions the power and likenesse of Christs resurrection which is done when we walke in all-pleasing before God and set our affections vpon things aboue And this as it is commanded on Gods part so it is sealed on our part in Baptisme Fourthly It is a pledge or pawne of loue and vnitie Wee must keepe the vnitie of the spirit in the bond of peace for we are all baptized into one bodie We must not iarre for we are brethren Wee must not quarrell nor contend for we are members of the same bodie and haue beene sealed into the same bodie The new exercise of faith required in the worthy receiuing the Lords Supper It goeth ill with the naturall bodie when the ioynts are dissolued it is vnnaturall that the members of the bodie mysticall should bee diuided It is not the hauing faith but the new exercise of faith which maketh vs worthy receiuers of the Lords Supper The Corinthians had faith yet receiued not the grace of the Sacrament because they receiued not in faith The acts of faith in this ordinance The acts of faith in receiuing the Lords Supper are many First By it wee discerne the Sacrament to bee the holy Ordinance of God instituted for our speciall good and benefit sealing vnto vs the promises which God of his free mercie hath made vnto vs in Iesus Christ By faith wee vnderstand what promises God hath made for what cause in whom he hath made them what hee requireth and how hee hath sealed his free promises in the Sacrament And the certaine distinct cleare effectuall knowledge of this point is a matter of singular and great importance For if worldly men make good account of a sufficient mans securitie for some great summe of money in what esteeme will a Christian haue this pledge of Gods fauour when hee certainly vnderstands what it doth signifie and assure Secondly By it we see what the Lord doth offer vnto vs therein how excellent and precious it is with what assurance it is freely tendered and may be receiued The outward signes in the Sacrament are visible to the bodily eye but the inward grace signified and sealed thereby which must seriously be considered and minded of vs is not manifest but to the vnderstanding enlightened by the Spirit and seasoned by faith which only can iudge distinctly of it worth and excellencie Thirdly It sharpeneth spirituall appetite and stirreth vp hungring and thirsting after Christ and his benefits By faith we see our want by faith we taste how good the Lord is how sweet and pleasant the dainties he hath prepared which raiseth an appetite of desire and complacencie O God thou art my God early will I seeke thee Psal 63.1 my soule thirsteth for thee my flesh longeth for thee The Sacrament of the Lords Supper is a great and spirituall feast whereunto the faithfull are inuited and faith whetteth the spirituall appetite to long after and rellish the fatnesse and marrow which is there prouided Fourthly It earnestly contendeth for mercie confessing sinne with griefe and hatred iudging and
as an euil he shall fall into but which he shall escape by the constant study and practice of holines For our assurance to escape damnation through the death of Christ Phil. 2.12 Math. 10.28 Luke 12.4.5 is no greater then our care to auoyd sin which leadeth thereunto Worke out your saluation with feare and trembling Feare not them which kill the body but are not able to kill the soule but rather feare him which is able to destroy both soule and body in hell Thirdly It stâ—rreth vp continuall watchfulnesse to shunne whatsoeuer might bâ—eed danger or procure Gods displeasure When sleepinesse beginneth to come vpon vs faith ioggeth our elbow and telleth the Lord is at hand with a whip to awaken vs. The approach of perill apprehended will rowse vp the sluggard to looke about him Faith also teacheth so to acknowledge the anger of God as that it draweth the heart aboue all things to take heed not to prouoke him by carelesnesse and securitie Who knoweth the power of thy anger 2. Cor. 5.10 11. Psal 90.11 Euen according to thy feare so is thy wrath Fourthly The threatnings mingled with faith cause sorrowfull melting or relenting of heart for sinne committed When the King of Nineueh belieued the preaching of Ionah Ionas 3.6 7 8. that within fortie dayes that gâ—eat Citie should be destroyed hee rose from his throne put on sackcloth and proclaimed a Fast vnto the Lord. And when the Lord testified his displeasure against the Israelites by sending thunder and lightning in Wheate Haruest all the people feared greatly and said vnto Samuel 1. Sa. 12.18 19. Pray for thy seruants vnto the Lord thy God that we die not for we haue added vnto all our sinnes this euill to aske vs a King Now the threatnings belieued worke the same effect Iudges 2.3 4. that the iudgements seene When Iosiah heard what the Lord spake against Ierusalem and against the inhabitants of that place his heart was tender 2. Kin. 22.18 19 and hee humbled himselfe before the Lord. Fiftly When wee see by faith from what miseries wee are deliuered of the free grace and mercie of God our hearts are enlarged in prayse and thanksgiuing In distresse faith powreth out supplications when the calamitie is ouer-past it setteth forth the goodnesse of the Lord and singeth of his glorie When the Israelites were in safetie on the shoare looking backe vpon the danger escaped when they passed through the red Sea Exod. 15.1 2. they make a ioyfull noise to the God of their saluation their songs are answerable to their fore-conceiued feare And so when the Lord brought backe the captiuitie of Babylon Psal 126.2 their mouthes were filled with laughter and their tongues with ioy The due consideration of our deserts manifest by the threatnings contained in the Word of God doth maruellously affect the heart with desire to publish and spread abroad the louing kindnesse of the Lord when by faith in Christ wee see our selues to bee set free from the dreadfull curses of the Law and mercifully saued from the righteous iudgement of our sinnes By this which hath beene said it is manifest that this life of faith is most excellent and comfortable and by good proofe and experience wee should be able to say so if wee would be perswaded but to take a taste of the benefit and sweetnesse that it bringeth For by this faith we are directed to seeke and follow after Christ Ephes 3.17 till wee come to be assured that he dwelleth in vs as the fountaine of life and that in him we are deliuered from the gilt and punishment of all our sinnes 2. Cor. 5.19 whereas others who liue not by it wauer are oft distracted and know not where to begin the foundation of that great worke nor how to build thereon By this faith we may come to sound rest and holy securitie about our saluation from time to time enioying the comfort of it still more and more with incredible ioy whereas others euen the best are oft vnsetled and much disquieted If the Lord lead vs into the darke and exercise vs with manifold afflictions and temptations by this faith we are enabled to hold him by the hand to cast our selues vpon the promises of grace and so relying vpon his power faithfulnesse and mercy to promise safetie vnto our selues aboue likelihood and appearance yea when wee feele the contrarie The rage of sinne is weakened and wee haue strength against it though not alwayes to preuaile which were not expedient yet at least to be in combate with it which is euer a good testimonie of our safetie for hereby we proue our selues to bee liuely members of the Church Militant Also by this we are preserued against fearefull sinnes and haue grace to walke in newnesse of life and all parts of it with ioy and chearefulnesse If we liue by faith we haue deliuerance from mâ—ny sharp bitter afflictions beare those which we must go vnder more meekly patiently because it makes vs depend vpon Gods promises not stinting him to any set time maner of deliuerance or measure of afflictioÌ„ By it we walk in our callings more chearfully honestly painfully with lesse distractioÌ„ toile vexatioÌ„ but with more profit then they that flow in with wealth haue all shifts cunning slights to gaine by Psal 127.1 2. For whiles we see God euer going before vs in al our earthly dealings and actions as we should more looke to it that we find it so then to our greatest profits weightiest dealings this faith shall vphold vs in the quietest estate and most sweet peace such as all the carnall wisedome of man shall neuer find nor enioy This faith teacheth vs to pray at all times as our necessities require with feruency coÌ„fidence euen in the depth of afflictions when the graue is readie to swallow vs vp and shut her mouth vpon vs Psal 69.13 14 15 16. it enableth to look vnto the Lord with strong arguments to implore his aid O Lord God of my saluation Psal 88.1 2 3. I haue cried day and night before thee for my soule is full of troubles and my life draweth nigh vnto the graue Out of the depths haue I cried vnto thee O Lord Lord heare my voice Psal 130.1 2. My spirit within me is ouer-whelmed my heart within me is desolate I stretch forth my hands vnto thee Psal 143.3 6. my soule thirsteth for thee in a thirsty land O remember not against vs former iniquities let thy tender mercies speedily preuent vs Psal 79.8 for we are brought very low If the affliction be very grieuous and of long continuance faith doth neither quaile nor cease to seek helpe but looketh vp to the Lord expecting saluation in due time to be reuealed O God Psal 74.1 2. why hast thou cast vs off for euer Why doth thine anger smoake against the sheepe of thy pasture Remâ—mber thy Congregation which thou hast purchased of old the rod of thine inheritance Psal 69.29 Psal 68.35 Verse 22. which thou hast redeemed I am poore and sorrowfull let thy saluation O God set me vp on high for God is the strength of his people who will brâ—ng them againe from the depths of the Sea The life of faith shall 〈◊〉 in ioy comfort He that trusteth in the Lord shall r◠〈◊〉 in his holy Name I am a wonder vnto many but the 〈◊〉 my strong refuge Psal 71.7 8. Let my mouth be filled with thy praise and with thy honour all the day Our heart shall reioyce in him Psal 33.21 because we haue trusted in his holy Name Loe this is our God we haue waited for him and he will saue vs this is the Lord Esay 25.9 we haue waited for him we will be glad and reioyce in his saluation The expectation of them that hope in the Lord Psal 68.19 69.30 shall not be frustrated therefore they shall reioice in him and sound forth his praises He that hath learned to liue by faith Heb. 11.13 shall also die in faith All these died in or according to the faith If we know how to walke with God by faith as Henoch did all the daies of our life amidst the manifold temptations changes that we meet withall in this world we shal the better encounter with death when the agonies therof be vpon vs. Death is many waies terrible and the assaults of Satan at that time are vsually most strong as being his last but hee that hath taken out this lesson To liue by faith shall easily quench the fierie darts of the Deuill manfully conquer this strong enemie renew his repentance and confidence in Gods mercy vpon the sight of sin willingly resigne himselfe into the hands oâ— God This is the ordinary course Liue in faith die in faith Liue holily and die blessedly Therefore let vs leaue late repentance to them that think it but a sport to venture a soule and take that course that is sure to speed To say no more it is exceeding dangerous to put off repentance from day to day though some few haue obtained mercie at their latter end But this is sure he that liueth in faith shall die in faith and liue in glory for euermore Amen FINIS