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Word A Word B Word C Word D Occurrence Frequency Band MI MI Band Prominent
religion_n christian_a great_a life_n 2,755 4 4.1264 3 false
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ID Title Author Corrected Date of Publication (TCP Date of Publication) STC Words Pages
A59601 Immanuel, or, A discovery of true religion as it imports a living principle in the minds of men, grounded upon Christ's discourse with the Samaritaness : being the latter clause of The voice crying in a wilderness, or, A continuation of the angelical life / mostly composed at the same time by S.S. Shaw, Samuel, 1635-1696. 1667 (1667) Wing S3038; ESTC R35174 154,749 423

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blessfull_a state_n of_o any_o kingdom_n i_o will_v speak_v free_o let_v it_o light_v where_o it_o will_v that_o principle_n that_o spring_v up_o into_o popular_a applause_n secular_a greatness_n worldly_a pomp_n and_o bravery_n flesh-pleasing_a or_o any_o kind_n of_o selfexa●tation_n which_o be_v manifold_a be_v real_o contradistinct_a from_o that_o divine_a principle_n that_o religious_a nature_n that_o spring_v up_o into_o everlasting_a life_n and_o certain_o notwithstanding_o all_o the_o recr●minations_n and_o self-justifications_a which_o be_v on_o all_o hand_n use_v to_o shuffle_v of_o the_o guilt_n these_o governor_n must_v lay_v aside_o their_o sullen_a pride_n as_o well_o as_o the_o people_n their_o proud_a fullenness_n before_o the_o church_n of_o god_n be_v heal_v in_o its_o breach_n purge_v of_o antichristianism_n or_o can_v probable_o arrive_v at_o any_o sound_a constitution_n or_o perfect_a stature_n but_o i_o suppose_v religion_n will_v not_o have_v its_o full_a and_o desirable_a effect_n upon_o a_o nation_n by_o heal_v the_o sickly_a head_n of_o it_o except_o it_o be_v like_o the_o holy_a oil_n pour_v upon_o the_o sacrificer_n head_n which_o run_v down_o also_o upon_o the_o skirt_n of_o his_o 2._o psal_n 133._o 2._o garment_n therefore_o second_o it_o be_v indispensable_o requisite_a for_o the_o through_o heal_v and_o right_a constitute_v of_o any_o political_a body_n that_o the_o subject_n therein_o be_v thus_o divine_o principled_a this_o will_v not_o fail_v to_o dispose_v they_o right_o towards_o their_o governor_n and_o towards_o one_o another_o 1._o towards_o their_o governor_n there_o be_v many_o evil_a and_o perverse_a disposition_n in_o subject_n towards_o their_o ruler_n all_o which_o religion_n be_v the_o most_o excellent_a expedient_a to_o rectify_v the_o first_o and_o fundamental_a distemper_n here_o seem_v to_o be_v a_o want_n of_o due_a reverence_n towards_o these_o vicegerent_n of_o god_n upon_o earth_n which_o easy_o grow_v up_o into_o something_o positive_a and_o become_v a_o secret_a wish_v of_o evil_n to_o they_o this_o fault_n as_o light_a as_o some_o esteem_n it_o be_v 15._o 2_o sam._n 6._o 16._o prov._n 30._o 16._o 1_o joh._n 3._o 15._o severe_o punish_v in_o queen_n michal_n who_o despise_v her_o lord_n king_n david_n in_o her_o heart_n and_o her_o barren_a womb_n go_v down_o to_o its_o sister_n the_o grave_n under_o great_a reproach_n and_o if_o a_o ordinary_a hatred_n be_v so_o foul_o interpret_v by_o the_o holy_a apostle_n whosoever_o hate_v his_o brother_n be_v a_o murderer_n sure_o disloyal_a and_o malignant_a disposition_n towards_o governor_n must_v needs_o have_v a_o foul_a face_n and_o we_o may_v say_v by_o a_o parity_n of_o reason_n whosoever_o hate_v his_o prince_n be_v a_o rebel_n and_o a_o regicide_n now_o this_o distemper_n as_o fundamental_a and_o epidemical_a as_o it_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o true_a religion_n will_v heal_v and_o i_o think_v i_o may_v say_v that_o only_o for_o i_o know_v nothing_o in_o the_o world_n that_o have_v nay_o i_o know_v that_o nothing_o in_o the_o world_n have_v that_o sovereignty_n and_o dominion_n over_o the_o disposition_n and_o affection_n of_o the_o soul_n as_o this_o principle_n thorough_o ingraft_v in_o the_o soul_n do_v challenge_v to_o itself_o this_o alone_a can_v frame_v the_o heart_n of_o man_n into_o that_o beautiful_a temper_n and_o complexion_n of_o love_n and_o loyalty_n that_o he_o will_v not_o curse_v the_o king_n no_o not_o in_o his_o conscience_n no_o 20._o eccles_n 10._o 20._o not_o though_o he_o be_v well_o assure_v that_o there_o be_v no_o wing_a ●e●●enger_n to_o tell_v the_o matter_n an_o other_o distemper_n in_o subject_n respective_a to_o their_o governor_n be_v impatience_n of_o bear_v a_o yoke_n which_o be_v a_o evil_a so_o natural_a to_o the_o proud_a and_o imperious_a spirit_n of_o man_n that_o i_o believe_v it_o be_v safe_a to_o affirm_v that_o every_o irreligious_a subject_n can_v be_v well_o content_a 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cast_v out_o those_o ireful_a jealousy_n sour_a suspicion_n harsh_a surmise_n and_o embitter_v thought_n which_o lodge_v in_o unhallowed_a mind_n and_o display_v itself_o in_o a_o most_o amicable_a sweetness_n and_o gentleness_n of_o disposition_n in_o fair_a gloss_n upon_o doubtful_a action_n friendly_a censure_n or_o none_o at_o all_o kind_a extenuation_n of_o great_a fault_n and_o cover_n of_o lesser_a for_o this_o be_v the_o proper_a genius_n of_o this_o divine_a principle_n to_o be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o very_o unbelieving_a of_o evil_n and_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o easy_o entertain_v of_o good_a report_n glad_o interpret_n all_o thing_n to_o a_o good_a meaning_n that_o will_v possible_o admit_v of_o such_o construction_n or_o if_o you_o will_v in_o the_o apostle_n phrase_n charity_n be_v not_o easy_o provoke_v think_v no_o 5._o 1_o cor._n 13._o 5._o evil_a and_o as_o charity_n do_v put_v up_o this_o root_n of_o discontent_n so_o will_v faith_n allay_v 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against_o lust_n and_o passion_n even_o as_o the_o sun_n glori_v against_o the_o darkness_n of_o the_o night_n until_o it_o have_v chase_v it_o all_o away_o the_o godly_a soul_n put_v itself_o under_o the_o banner_n of_o christ_n fight_v under_o the_o conduct_n of_o the_o angel_n of_o god_n presence_n and_o so_o march_v up_o undaunted_o against_o the_o child_n of_o anak_n those_o earthly_a love_n lust_n sensual_a affection_n which_o be_v indeed_o tall_a and_o strong_a than_o all_o other_o enemy_n that_o do_v encounter_v it_o in_o this_o wilderness_n state_n and_o the_o gracious_a god_n be_v not_o want_v to_o such_o endeavour_n he_o remember_v his_o promise_n help_v his_o servant_n even_o that_o promise_n isa_n 49._o 31._o that_o they_o that_o wait_v upon_o the_o lord_n shall_v renew_v their_o strength_n a_o true_a israelitish_n soul_n impregnate_v with_o this_o noble_a and_o heroic_a principle_n be_v not_o like_o those_o slothful_a israelite_n that_o be_v content_a with_o what_o they_o 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upon_o this_o head_n i_o hint_v to_o you_o the_o reason_n why_o the_o godly_a soul_n continual_o study_v conformity_n of_o god_n even_o because_o he_o be_v the_o perfect_a and_o absolute_a good_a and_o the_o soul_n reckon_v that_o its_o happiness_n consist_v only_o in_o be_v like_a unto_o he_o in_o partake_v of_o a_o divine_a nature_n but_o i_o may_v also_o here_o take_v occasion_n speak_v of_o three_o thing_n which_o i_o will_v but_o brief_o name_n and_o so_o pass_v on_o first_o a_o godly_a man_n reckon_v with_o himself_o that_o conformity_n to_o the_o image_n and_o nature_n of_o god_n be_v the_o most_o proper_a converse_v with_o god_n in_o the_o world_n the_o great_a and_o indeed_o only_a employment_n of_o a_o immortal_a soul_n be_v to_o converse_v with_o its_o creator_n for_o this_o end_n it_o be_v make_v and_o make_v so_o capacious_a as_o we_o see_v it_o now_o to_o partake_v of_o a_o divine_a nature_n to_o be_v indutd_v with_o a_o godlike_a disposition_n be_v most_o proper_o to_o 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and_o more_o proper_o than_o they_o that_o watch_v for_o the_o morning_n they_o may_v be_v say_v rather_o to_o be_v weary_a of_o the_o long_a and_o cold_a and_o troublesome_a night_n than_o proper_o covetous_a of_o the_o day_n but_o he_o out_o of_o a_o pure_a and_o spiritual_a sense_n of_o his_o estrangement_n from_o god_n belong_v to_o appear_v before_o he_o and_o be_v wrap_v up_o in_o he_o heal_n the_o godly_a man_n of_o all_o his_o affliction_n grievance_n adversity_n in_o the_o world_n that_o he_o may_v have_v nothing_o to_o trouble_v he_o nor_o put_v he_o to_o pain_n yet_o he_o be_v not_o quiet_a he_o be_v in_o pain_n because_o of_o the_o distance_n whereat_o he_o stand_v from_o god_n give_v he_o the_o whole_a world_n and_o all_o the_o glory_n of_o it_o yet_o he_o have_v not_o enough_o he_o still_o cry_v and_o crave_v give_v give_v because_o he_o be_v not_o entire_o swallow_v up_o in_o god_n he_o open_v his_o month_n wide_a as_o the_o psalmist_n speak_v and_o all_o the_o silver_n and_o gold_n peace_n health_n liberty_n preferment_n that_o you_o cast_v into_o it_o can_v fill_v it_o because_o they_o be_v not_o god_n he_o can_v look_v upon_o they_o as_o his_o chief_a good_a in_o a_o word_n a_o godly_a man_n do_v not_o so_o much_o say_v in_o the_o sense_n either_o of_o sin_n or_o affliction_n oh_o that_o one_o will_v give_v i_o the_o wing_n of_o a_o dove_n that_o i_o may_v fly_v away_o and_o be_v at_o rest_n as_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o dissimilitude_n to_o and_o distance_n from_o god_n oh_o that_o one_o will_v give_v i_o the_o wing_n of_o a_o eagle_n that_o i_o may_v fly_v away_o towards_o heaven_n chap._n v._n a_o expostulation_n with_o christian_n concern_v their_o remiss_a and_o sluggish_a temper_n a_o essay_n to_o convince_v they_o of_o it_o by_o some_o consideration_n which_o be_v first_o the_o activity_n of_o worldly_a man_n second_o the_o restless_a appetite_n of_o the_o body_n three_o the_o strong_a propension_n of_o every_o creature_n towards_o its_o own_o centre_n a_o enquiry_n into_o the_o slothfulness_n and_o inactivity_n of_o christian_a soul_n two_o thing_n premise_v and_o so_o a_o answer_n be_v give_v to_o the_o enquiry_n in_o five_o particular_n the_o grace_n of_o faith_n be_v vindicate_v from_o the_o slander_n of_o be_v mere_o passive_a a_o short_a essay_n to_o awaken_v christian_n unto_o a_o great_a vigour_n and_o activity_n we_o have_v see_v in_o what_o respect_v religion_n be_v a_o active_a principle_n in_o the_o soul_n where_o it_o be_v seat_v give_v i_o leave_v to_o enlarge_v a_o little_a here_o for_o conviction_n or_o reprehension_n by_o this_o property_n of_o true_a religion_n we_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o discover_v much_o that_o be_v false_a and_o counterseit_n in_o the_o world_n if_o religion_n be_v no_o lazy_a languid_a sluggish_a passive_a thing_n but_o lift_v love_n the_o spirit_n of_o power_n and_o freedom_n a_o fire_n burn_v a_o well_o of_o water_n spring_v up_o as_o we_o have_v sufficient_o see_v what_o shall_v we_o say_v then_o of_o that_o heavy_a sluggish_a spiritless_a kind_n of_o religion_n that_o most_o man_n take_v up_o with_o shall_v we_o call_v it_o a_o spirit_n of_o life_n with_o the_o apostle_n and_o yet_o allow_v of_o a_o religion_n that_o be_v cold_a and_o dead_a shall_v we_o call_v it_o a_o spirit_n of_o love_n and_o power_n with_o the_o same_o apostle_n and_o yet_o allow_v of_o it_o though_o it_o be_v indifferent_a low_a and_o impotent_a or_o will_v such_o pass_v for_o currant_n with_o the_o wise_a and_o holy_a god_n it_o we_o shall_v pass_v a_o favourable_a censure_n upon_o it_o and_o why_o shall_v it_o ever_o pass_v with_o man_n if_o it_o will_v not_o for_o ever_o pass_v with_o god_n but_o indeed_o how_o can_v this_o inactivity_n and_o sluggishness_n pass_v for_o religion_n among_o man_n who_o can_v think_v you_o be_v in_o pursuit_n of_o the_o infinite_a and_o supreme_a good_a that_o see_v you_o so_o slow_a in_o your_o motion_n towards_o it_o who_o can_v think_v that_o your_o treasure_n be_v in_o heaven_n that_o see_v your_o heart_n so_o far_o from_o thence_o the_o more_o any_o thing_n partake_v of_o god_n and_o the_o near_a it_o come_v to_o he_o who_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o life_n and_o power_n and_o virtue_n the_o more_o active_a powerful_a and_o lively_a will_v it_o be_v we_o read_v of_o a_o atheistical_a generation_n in_o zeph._n 1._o 12._o who_o fancy_v to_o themselves_o a_o idle_a and_o slothful_a god_n that_o mind_v not_o the_o affair_n of_o the_o world_n at_o all_o say_v the_o lord_n will_v not_o do_v good_a neither_o will_v he_o do_v evil_a which_o be_v also_o the_o false_a and_o gross_a conceit_n of_o many_o of_o the_o heathen_a as_o cicero_n confess_v of_o some_o of_o the_o philosopher_n themselves_o qui_fw-la deum_fw-la nihil_fw-la habere_fw-la negotii_fw-la dicunt_fw-la &_o nihil_fw-la exhibere_fw-la alteri_fw-la and_o indeed_o though_o it_o be_v not_o so_o blasphemous_a yet_o it_o be_v almost_o as_o absurd_a to_o fancy_v a_o idle_a saint_n as_o a_o idle_a deity_n sure_o i_o be_o if_o it_o be_v not_o altogether_o impossible_a yet_o it_o be_v altogether_o a_o shamesull_n and_o deform_a sight_n a_o holy_a soul_n in_o a_o lethargy_n a_o godly_a soul_n that_o be_v not_o in_o pursuit_n of_o god_n moses_n indeed_o bid_v israel_n stand_v still_o and_o see_v the_o salvation_n of_o the_o lord_n but_o there_o be_v no_o such_o divinity_n in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n as_o this_o stand_v still_o and_o see_v the_o salvation_n of_o the_o soul_n though_o some_o have_v violent_o press_v those_o word_n exod._n 14._o 13._o to_o serve_v under_o their_o slothful_a standard_n no_o no_o the_o scripture_n speak_v to_o we_o at_o another_o rate_n phil._n 2._o 12._o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d work_n out_o your_o own_o salvation_n and_o indeed_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n do_v everywhere_o describe_v religion_n by_o the_o activity_n industry_n vigour_n and_o quietness_n of_o it_o as_o i_o hint_v in_o the_o very_a beginning_n of_o this_o discourse_n and_o can_v abundant_o confirm_v and_o explain_v if_o there_o be_v need_n of_o it_o but_o that_o i_o may_v more_o powerful_o convince_v and_o awaken_v the_o lazy_a and_o heavy_a spirit_n and_o temper_n of_o many_o professor_n i_o will_v brief_o touch_v upon_o a_o few_o particular_n which_o i_o will_v next_o propound_v to_o their_o serious_a consideration_n 1._o the_o child_n of_o this_o world_n earthly_a and_o sensual_a man_n be_v not_o so_o slothful_a so_o lazy_a so_o indifferent_a in_o the_o pursuit_n of_o earthly_a and_o sensual_a object_n you_o say_v you_o have_v lay_v up_o your_o treasure_n in_o heaven_n we_o know_v they_o have_v lay_v up_o their_o treasure_n in_o the_o earth_n now_o who_o be_v it_o that_o behave_v himself_o most_o suitable_o and_o seemly_o towards_o his_o treasure_n you_o or_o they_o you_o say_v you_o have_v a_o treasure_n in_o heaven_n and_o be_v content_a to_o be_v able_a to_o say_v so_o but_o make_v no_o haste_n to_o be_v full_o and_o seel_o possess_v of_o it_o to_o enjoy_v the_o benefit_n and_o sweetness_n of_o it_o but_o they_o rise_v up_o early_o and_o sit_v up_o late_o and_o either_o pine_v themselves_o or_o eat_v the_o bread_n of_o sorrow_n to_o obtain_v earthly_a and_o perish_a inheritance_n they_o circuit_n the_o world_n travel_v far_o sell_v all_o to_o purchase_v that_o part_n which_o be_v of_o so_o great_a price_n with_o they_o and_o when_o they_o have_v accomplish_v it_o oh_o how_o do_v they_o set_v their_o heart_n upon_o it_o bound_v up_o their_o very_a soul_n in_o the_o same_o bag_n with_o their_o money_n and_o seal_v up_o their_o affection_n together_o with_o it_o yea_o and_o so_o they_o be_v not_o at_o rest_n neither_o but_o find_v a_o gnaw_a hunger_n up●n_v their_o heart_n after_o more_o still_o to_o add_v house_n to_o house_n and_o land_n to_o land_n and_o one_o bag_n to_o another_o the_o covetous_a miser_n be_v ready_a to_o sit_v down_o and_o wring_v his_o hand_n because_o he_o have_v no_o more_o hand_n to_o scrape_v with_o the_o voluptuous_a epicure_n be_v angry_a that_o he_o have_v not_o the_o neck_n of_o a_o crane_n the_o better_a to_o taste_v his_o dainty_n and_o ambitious_a alexander_n when_o he_o domineer_v over_o the_o know_a world_n be_v ready_a to_o sit_v down_o and_o whine_v because_o there_o be_v no_o more_o world_n to_o conquer_v what_o christian_a can_v choose_v but_o be_v ashamed_a of_o himself_o when_o he_o read_v the_o description_n which_o plautus_n the_o comedian_n make_v of_o a_o covetous_a worldling_n under_o the_o person_n of_o euclio_n how_o he_o hide_v his_o pot_n of_o gold_n heed_v it_o wa●cht_v it_o visit_v it_o almost_o every_o hour_n will_v not_o go_v from_o it_o in_o the_o day_n can_v not_o sleep_v for_o it_o in_o the_o night_n suspect_v
immanvel_n or_o a_o discovery_n of_o true_a religion_n as_o it_o import_v a_o live_a principle_n in_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n ground_v upon_o christ_n discourse_n with_o the_o samaritaness_n 1_o joh._n 4._o 14._o be_v the_o latter_a clause_n of_o the_o voice_n cry_v in_o a_o wilderness_n or_o a_o continuation_n of_o the_o angelical_a life_n most_o compose_v at_o the_o same_o time_n by_o s._n s._n this_o be_v the_o covenant_n that_o i_o will_v make_v with_o the_o house_n of_o israel_n after_o those_o day_n say_v the_o lord_n i_o will_v put_v my_o law_n in_o their_o inward_a part_n and_o write_v it_o in_o their_o heart_n jer._n 31._o 33._o 〈◊〉_d that_o believe_v in_o i_o as_o the_o scripture_n have_v say_v out_o of_o his_o belly_n shall_v flow_v river_n of_o live_a water_n joh._n 7._o 38._o 〈◊〉_d itatem_fw-la philosophi_fw-la quaerunt_fw-la theologi_fw-la inveniunt_fw-la religiosi_fw-la possident_fw-la come_v mirandul_n london_n print_v anno_fw-la dom._n 1667._o a_o treat_v preface_n to_o the_o reader_n among_o the_o many_o stupendous_a spectacle_n that_o be_v wont_a to_o surprise_v and_o amuse_n inquisitive_a and_o considerative_a mind_n there_o seem_v to_o be_v nothing_o in_o the_o world_n of_o a_o sad_a and_o more_o astonish_a observation_n than_o the_o small_a progress_n and_o propagation_n of_o christian_a religion_n this_o i_o call_v a_o sad_a observation_n because_o religion_n be_v a_o matter_n of_o the_o most_o weighty_a and_o necessary_a importance_n without_o which_o it_o be_v not_o possible_a for_o a_o immortal_a soul_n to_o be_v perfect_v and_o make_v happy_a i_o call_v it_o astonish_v because_o christian_n religion_n have_v in_o itself_o such_o advantage_n of_o recommend_v itself_o to_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n and_o contain_v in_o it_o such_o mighty_a engine_n to_o work_v they_o into_o a_o hearty_a compliance_n with_o it_o and_o to_o captivate_v their_o reason_n unto_o itself_o as_o no_o other_o religion_n in_o the_o world_n can_v with_o any_o face_n pretend_v to_o i_o do_v earnest_o and_o i_o suppose_v rational_o and_o scriptural_o hope_v that_o this_o veritas_fw-la magna_fw-la those_o sacred_a oracle_n will_v yet_o much_o more_o prevail_v and_o that_o the_o founder_n of_o this_o most_o excellent_a religion_n who_o be_v lift_v up_o upon_o the_o cross_n and_o be_v more_o exalt_v to_o his_o throne_n will_v yet_o draw_v more_o man_n unto_o himself_o and_o this_o perhaps_o be_v all_o the_o millennium_n that_o we_o can_v warrantable_o look_v for_o but_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n it_o be_v too_o too_o evident_a that_o the_o kingdom_n of_o satan_n do_v more_o obtain_v in_o the_o world_n than_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n either_o in_o the_o letter_n or_o power_n of_o it_o as_o to_o the_o former_a if_o we_o will_v receive_v the_o probable_a conjecture_n of_o learned_a enquirer_n we_o shall_v not_o find_v above_o one_o six_o part_n of_o the_o know_a world_n yet_o christianize_v or_o give_v so_o much_o as_o a_o external_a adoration_n to_o the_o crucify_a jesus_n as_o to_o the_o latter_a i_o will_v not_o be_v so_o bold_a as_o to_o make_v any_o arithmetical_a conjecture_n but_o judge_v it_o more_o necessary_a and_o more_o become_v a_o charitable_a and_o christian_a spirit_n to_o set_v down_o in_o secret_a and_o weep_v over_o that_o sad_a but_o true_a account_n give_v in_o the_o gospel_n few_o be_v choose_v and_o again_o 14._o mat._n 20._o 26_o mat._n 7._o 14._o few_o there_o be_v that_o find_v it_o be_v grieve_v after_o the_o example_n of_o my_o compassionate_a redeemer_n for_o the_o hardness_n of_o their_o heart_n and_o pray_v with_o joah_n in_o another_o case_n the_o lord_n make_v his_o people_n a_o hundred_o time_n so_o many_o more_o as_o they_o be_v it_o be_v beside_o my_o present_a purpose_n to_o inquire_v into_o the_o immediate_a cause_n of_o the_o non-propagation_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o the_o former_a sense_n only_o it_o be_v easy_a and_o obvious_a to_o guess_v that_o few_o will_v enter_v in_o by_o the_o way_n of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n when_o the_o same_o be_v guard_v with_o a_o flame_a sword_n and_o it_o be_v reasonable_a to_o hope_v that_o if_o the_o mind_n of_o christian_n be_v more_o purge_v from_o a_o selfish_a bitterness_n fierce_a animosity_n and_o arbitrary_a sowrness_n and_o possess_v with_o a_o more_o free_a generous_a benign_a compassionate_a condescend_v candid_a charitable_a and_o christ-like_a spirit_n which_o will_v be_v indulgent_a towards_o such_o as_o be_v for_o the_o present_a under_o a_o less_o perfect_a dispensation_n as_o our_o 55._o luk._n 9_o 49_o 50_o 54_o 55._o saviour_n be_v will_v not_o impose_v any_o thing_n harsh_a or_o unnecessary_a upon_o the_o sacred_a and_o inviolable_a conscience_n of_o man_n but_o will_v allow_v and_o maintain_v that_o liberty_n to_o man_n which_o be_v just_a and_o natural_a to_o they_o in_o matter_n of_o religion_n and_o no_o way_n forfeit_v by_o they_o then_o i_o say_v it_o may_v be_v reasonable_a to_o hope_v that_o the_o innate_a power_n and_o virtue_n of_o the_o gospel_n will_v prove_v most_o victorious_a judaisme_n mahumetism_n and_o paganism_n will_v melt_v away_o under_o its_o powerful_a influence_n and_o satan_n himself_o fall_v down_o as_o lightning_n before_o it_o as_o natural_o as_o the_o eyelid_n of_o the_o morning_n do_v chase_v away_o the_o blackness_n of_o the_o night_n when_o once_o they_o be_v lift_v up_o upon_o the_o earth_n but_o my_o design_n be_v chief_o to_o examine_v the_o true_a and_o proper_a cause_n of_o the_o non-progress_n of_o the_o gospel_n as_o to_o the_o power_n of_o it_o and_o its_o inefficaciousness_n upon_o the_o heart_n and_o conscience_n of_o those_o that_o do_v profess_v it_o and_o now_o in_o find_v out_o the_o cause_n hereof_o i_o shall_v content_v myself_o to_o be_v wise_a on_o this_o side_n heaven_n leave_v that_o dare_a course_n of_o search_v the_o decree_n of_o god_n and_o riff_v into_o the_o hide_a roll_n of_o eternity_n to_o they_o who_o can_v digest_v the_o 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life_n be_v the_o end_n and_o perfection_n of_o they_o all_o not_o that_o any_o one_o of_o they_o i_o conceive_v shall_v be_v utter_o incassated_a and_o abolish_v as_o some_o conclude_v concern_v the_o two_o former_a though_o without_o good_a ground_n i_o think_v from_o the_o apostle_n word_n 1_o cor._n 13._o 13._o but_o faith_n will_v be_v ripen_v into_o the_o most_o firm_a and_o undisturbed_a confidence_n affiance_n and_o acquiescence_n in_o god_n hope_n will_v be_v advance_v into_o a_o more_o cheerful_a powerful_a and_o confident_a expectation_n have_v for_o its_o object_n the_o perpetuation_n of_o the_o soul_n felicity_n and_o love_n will_v become_v much_o more_o love_a and_o more_o clear_o distinguishable_a from_o the_o imperfect_a long_n and_o languish_n of_o this_o present_a state_n when_o it_o shall_v flower_n up_o into_o pure_a delight_n and_o complacency_n rest_v and_o glory_v in_o the_o arm_n of_o its_o adequate_a satisfactory_a and_o eternal_a object_n the_o faith_n of_o the_o hypocrite_n and_o indeed_o his_o hope_n too_o be_v still_o spring_v up_o into_o self-preservation_n deliverance_n liberty_n a_o splendid_a and_o pompous_a state_n of_o the_o church_n that_o be_v of_o his_o own_o party_n or_o some_o such_o thing_n as_o will_v gratify_v the_o animal_n life_n and_o there_o i●_n terminate_v but_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o sincere_a and_o religious_a soul_n spring_v up_o into_o eternal_a life_n it_o know_v no_o term_n but_o the_o salvation_n of_o the_o soul_n 1_o pet._n 1._o 9_o as_o his_o hope_n know_v no_o accomplishment_n but_o a_o state_n of_o godlike_a purity_n and_o perfection_n 1_o joh._n 3._o 3_o the_o more_o natural_a man_n live_v within_o himself_o within_o a_o circle_n of_o his_o own_o and_o can_v get_v out_o whether_o he_o eat_v or_o drink_v or_o pray_v or_o be_v zealous_a for_o the_o popular_a pull_v down_o of_o the_o political_a antichrist_n he_o be_v still_o in_o his_o own_o circle_n he_o be_v still_o sacrifice_v in_o all_o this_o to_o that_o great_a helluo_n the_o animal_n life_n as_o i_o have_v already_o make_v evident_a but_o the_o godly_a soul_n be_v disintere_v of_o self_n and_o so_o be_v still_o contrive_v the_o advancement_n of_o a_o noble_a life_n within_o itself_o and_o move_v towards_o god_n as_o his_o supreme_a and_o all-sufficient_a good_a give_v he_o all_o that_o the_o whole_a world_n can_v afford_v he_o can_v fix_v nor_o settle_v nor_o centre_n here_o god_n have_v put_v into_o he_o a_o holy_a restless_a appetite_n after_o a_o high_a good_a which_o he_o will_v rather_o be_v than_o what_o he_o be_v i_o know_v indeed_o that_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v thus_o divine_o free_a may_v be_v hinder_v in_o its_o flight_n but_o it_o will_v deliver_v itself_o from_o the_o clog_n at_o length_n you_o may_v choke_v and_o dam_v up_o the_o streaming_n of_o this_o fountain_n perhaps_o but_o they_o will_v burst_v out_o again_o you_o may_v cast_v ash_n upon_o this_o pure_a fire_n for_o a_o time_n but_o it_o will_v flame_v out_o again_o such_o a_o damp_n can_v arise_v no_o not_o from_o hell_n itself_o as_o to_o extinguish_v it_o the_o philistine_n i_o remember_v stop_v the_o well_n of_o water_n which_o abraham_n have_v dig_v in_o gerar_n and_o fill_v they_o with_o earth_n gen._n 26._o 15._o but_o this_o well_o of_o water_n which_o god_n dig_v in_o the_o holy_a and_o humble_a soul_n can_v be_v stop_v neither_o by_o the_o devil_n that_o king_n of_o gerar_n that_o be_v of_o wander_n job_n 1._o 7._o nor_o by_o any_o of_o his_o servant_n but_o it_o will_v find_v vent_v upward_o though_o you_o endeavour_v to_o fill_v it_o with_o earth_n which_o indeed_o be_v the_o likely_a to_o choke_v it_o for_o amor_fw-la rerum_fw-la terrenarum_fw-la est_fw-la viscus_fw-la spiritualium_fw-la pennarum_fw-la though_o you_o cast_v dust_n and_o gravel_n of_o earthly_a
jesus_n christ_n have_v implant_v in_o it_o and_o if_o there_o be_v any_o other_o circumstance_n which_o can_v be_v reduce_v to_o one_o of_o these_o kind_n i_o suppose_v it_o may_v be_v reckon_v among_o the_o object_n and_o gratification_n of_o the_o animal_n life_n and_o not_o to_o make_v up_o any_o part_n of_o the_o godly_a man_n heaven_n or_o that_o eternal_a life_n which_o religion_n spring_v up_o into_o for_o i_o do_v easy_o imagine_v that_o a_o fleshly_a fancy_n may_v very_o be_v mighty_o ravish_v with_o the_o desire_n of_o such_o a_o heaven_n as_o be_v suitable_a to_o it_o and_o that_o a_o mere_a animal_n man_n may_v be_v as_o hearty_o desirous_a to_o be_v in_o such_o a_o kingdom_n of_o god_n as_o he_o have_v shape_v out_o to_o himself_o as_o he_o be_v utter_o unwilling_a that_o the_o true_a kingdom_n of_o god_n such_o as_o the_o apostle_n describe_v rom._n 14._o 17._o consist_v in_o righteousness_n and_o peace_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n shall_v be_v in_o he_o if_o our_o continual_a cry_n be_v after_o safety_n self-preservation_n liberty_n redemption_n and_o deliverance_n from_o those_o thing_n only_o that_o oppress_v and_o grieve_v our_o fleshly_a interest_n and_o our_o thirsting_n principal_o terminate_v in_o knowledge_n though_o it_o be_v of_o god_n himself_o freedom_n from_o condemnation_n power_n over_o devil_n yea_o or_o any_o visible_a pomp_n glory_n or_o splendour_n though_o it_o be_v of_o never_o so_o aethereal_a and_o heavenly_a a_o nature_n what_o do_v we_o more_o than_o other_o what_o be_v all_o this_o more_o than_o may_v natural_o spring_v up_o from_o the_o animal_n life_n and_o be_v ultimate_o resolve_v into_o carnal_a self_n wherefore_o as_o a_o result_n from_o the_o whole_a discourse_n especial_o from_o this_o last_o part_n of_o it_o let_v i_o earnest_o entreat_v all_o the_o professor_n of_o this_o holy_a religion_n which_o the_o bless_a messiah_n christ_n jesus_n have_v so_o dear_o buy_v for_o the_o world_n and_o so_o clear_o reveal_v in_o it_o not_o to_o value_v themselves_o by_o any_o thing_n which_o the_o power_n of_o natural_a self-love_n may_v exert_v or_o desire_n perform_v or_o expect_v nor_o by_o any_o thing_n below_o the_o image_n of_o god_n and_o the_o internal_a and_o transform_a manifestation_n of_o christ_n jesus_n in_o they_o the_o perfection_n of_o which_o be_v eternal_a life_n in_o the_o most_o proper_a and_o true_a notion_n of_o it_o as_o you_o have_v hear_v i_o know_v that_o i_o have_v often_o suggest_v the_o same_o lesson_n in_o this_o short_a treatise_n but_o i_o know_v also_o that_o i_o can_v never_o inculcate_v it_o often_o enough_o nay_o the_o eloquence_n of_o angel_n be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o imprint_v it_o upon_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n possible_o it_o may_v startle_v some_o hypocritical_a professor_n and_o carnal-gospeller_n god_n grant_v it_o may_v effectual_o and_o make_v the_o ear_n of_o many_o that_o hear_v it_o to_o tingle_v but_o yet_o i_o will_v proclaim_v it_o it_o be_v possible_a for_o a_o man_n to_o desire_v not_o only_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n which_o s●_n james_n speak_v of_o jam._n 4._o 3._o but_o even_o heaven_n itself_o to_o consume_v it_o upon_o his_o lust_n and_o he_o may_v as_o true_o be_v make_v provision_n for_o the_o flesh_n to_o fulfil_v it_o in_o the_o lust_n thereof_o in_o long_v after_o a_o kind_n of_o self-salvation_n as_o in_o eat_v and_o drink_v and_o rise_v up_o to_o play_v certain_o a_o true_a christian_a spirit_n right_o invigorate_v and_o actuate_v by_o this_o divine_a and_o potent_a principle_n christian_a religion_n can_v look_v upon_o heaven_n as_o mere_o future_a or_o as_o something_o perfect_o distinct_a from_o he_o but_o he_o eye_v it_o as_o life_n eternal_a life_n the_o perfection_n of_o the_o pure_a and_o divine_a life_n communicable_a to_o a_o soul_n and_o be_v daily_o thirst_v after_o it_o or_o rather_o as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o text_n grow_v up_o into_o i●_n i_o know_v that_o heaven_n be_v sometime_o call_v a_o rest_n in_o opposition_n to_o the_o dissatisfaction_n of_o the_o uncentred_a and_o unbelieving_a soul_n but_o in_o opposition_n to_o a_o sluggish_a inert_n and_o dormient_fw-la rest_n it_o be_v here_o say_v to_o be_v life_n eternal_a life_n let_v we_o show_v ourselves_o to_o be_v live_v christian_n by_o spring_v up_o into_o the_o utmost_a consummation_n of_o life_n let_v it_o appear_v that_o christ_n jesus_n the_o prince_n of_o life_n who_o be_v manifest_v on_o purpose_n to_o take_v away_o our_o sin_n 1_o joh._n 3._o 5._o have_v not_o only_o cover_v our_o shame_n and_o as_o it_o be_v embalm_v our_o dead_a soul_n to_o keep_v they_o from_o putrefaction_n and_o st●●wed_v they_o with_o the_o flower_n of_o his_o merit_n to_o take_v away_o their_o noisome_a stink_n from_o the_o nostril_n of_o his_o father_n but_o have_v true_o advance_v re●instated_a and_o make_v to_o flourish_v the_o soul_n that_o sin_n have_v so_o miserable_o degrade_v and_o deflower_v deliver_v yourselves_o o_o immortal_a soul_n from_o all_o those_o unsuitable_a and_o unseemly_a care_n study_n and_o joy_n from_o all_o those_o low_a and_o particular_a end_n and_o lust_n which_o do_v not_o only_o pinch_v and_o straiten_v but_o even_o debase_v and_o debauch_v you_o let_v it_o not_o be_v say_v that_o the_o king_n of_o sodom_n make_v abraham_n rich_a that_o your_o main_a delight_n happiness_n and_o conten●●ent_n be_v derive_v from_o any_o prosperous_a plentiful_a peaceable_a pompous_a state_n any_o thing_n that_o may_v be_v call_v a_o self-accommodation_n either_o in_o the_o world_n that_o now_o be_v or_o that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v but_o from_o the_o righteousness_n of_o faith_n and_o your_o vital_a union_n with_o the_o father_n and_o the_o son_n to_o who_o in_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v honour_n and_o glory_n world_n without_o end_n amen_n 1_o john_n 1._o 3._o our_o fellowship_n be_v with_o the_o father_n and_o with_o his_o son_n jesus_n christ_n these_o word_n do_v express_v the_o way_n of_o a_o christian_n live_v and_o that_o kind_a of_o converse_n whereby_o a_o good_a man_n be_v distinguish_v from_o all_o other_o man_n a_o good_a man_n be_v not_o difference_v from_o other_o man_n by_o any_o thing_n without_o he_o any_o church_n privilege_n which_o be_v common_a to_o hypocrite_n and_o sincere_a christian_n any_o external_a visible_a performance_n in_o which_o the_o disciple_n of_o the_o pharisee_n may_v be_v more_o abundant_a and_o more_o specious_a than_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n mat._n 9_o 14._o much_o less_o by_o any_o corporal_a or_o temporal_a enjoyment_n or_o ornament_n strength_n beauty_n riches_n descent_n etc._n etc._n nor_o by_o any_o carnal_a relation_n though_o it_o be_v to_o abraham_n as_o the_o jew_n brag_v of_o their_o father_n abraham_n joh._n 8._o 33._o but_o by_o something_o internal_a substantial_a by_o a_o relation_n to_o god_n the_o character_n of_o a_o good_a man_n must_v be_v fetch_v from_o his_o correspondence_n to_o the_o chief_a good_a and_o the_o happiness_n of_o a_o soul_n must_v be_v judge_v of_o by_o its_o relation_n to_o life_n and_o love_n and_o blessedness_n itself_o thing_n external_a corporal_a temporal_a make_v some_o difference_n among_o man_n but_o it_o be_v but_o nominal_a and_o titular_a in_o comparison_n by_o these_o man_n be_v say_v to_o be_v rich_a or_o poor_a noble_a or_o ignoble_a but_o man_n be_v real_o and_o substantial_o difference_v by_o the_o relation_n that_o they_o have_v to_o god_n by_o this_o they_o be_v good_a or_o bad_a godly_a or_o wicked_a this_o be_v the_o most_o certain_a and_o proper_a note_n of_o a_o good_a man_n viz._n communion_n with_o god_n in_o all_o other_o thing_n he_o may_v be_v li●e_z other_o man_n but_o in_o this_o he_o differ_v from_o and_o excel_v they_o all_o this_o be_v a_o character_n proper_a quarto_fw-la modo_fw-la for_o it_o agree_v to_o every_o good_a man_n to_o none_o but_o a_o good_a man_n and_o always_o to_o he_o as_o we_o shall_v see_v hereafter_o the_o ground_n of_o my_o discourse_n then_o shall_v be_v this_o short_a and_o plain_a proposition_n viz._n a_o godly_a man_n have_v communion_n with_o god_n in_o order_n to_o the_o more_o distinct_a handle_n hereof_o i_o must_v premise_v a_o few_o thing_n brief_o 1._o that_o the_o gracious_a and_o love_a god_n make_v nothing_o miserable_a of_o all_o that_o he_o have_v make_v there_o be_v no_o slave_n bear_v in_o his_o great_a house_n of_o the_o world_n he_o make_v all_o thing_n out_o of_o himself_o and_o he_o have_v no_o idea_n of_o evil_n in_o himself_o so_o that_o it_o be_v not_o possible_a that_o he_o shall_v make_v any_o thing_n evil_a or_o miserable_a every_o thing_n be_v good_a gen._n 1._o and_o so_o in_o some_o sense_n happy_a he_o be_v free_a to_o make_v the_o world_n but_o make_v it_o he_o can_v not_o make_v it_o evil_n or_o
of_o god_n as_o the_o chief_a rule_n and_o therefore_o wicked_a man_n who_o pitch_v upon_o other_o object_n and_o walk_v by_o other_o law_n even_o the_o lust_n and_o ordinance_n of_o their_o own_o flesh_n and_o fancy_n be_v proper_o stranger_n to_o god_n and_o miserable_a he_o be_v not_o proper_o say_v to_o know_v god_n who_o have_v a_o notion_n of_o he_o form_v in_o his_o head_n but_o he_o who_o heart_n and_o will_n be_v mould_v into_o a_o conformity_n to_o god_n and_o a_o delight_n in_o he_o so_o that_o a_o wicked_a man_n though_o he_o know_v and_o believe_v and_o tremble_v as_o much_o as_o any_o of_o the_o devil_n yet_o not_o love_v nor_o delight_v in_o he_o as_o his_o chief_a good_a not_o be_v conform_v to_o his_o image_n as_o the_o high_a and_o pure_a perfection_n may_v be_v true_o say_v to_o be_v estrange_v from_o god_n which_o be_v a_o state_n of_o hell_n and_o death_n and_o darkness_n this_o be_v the_o man_n who_o though_o not_o in_o word_n yet_o interpretative_o and_o real_o say_v unto_o god_n depart_v from_o i_o i_o desire_v not_o the_o knowledge_n of_o thy_o way_n with_o they_o in_o job_n 21._o 14._o these_o do_v real_o exempt_v themselves_o from_o the_o dominion_n of_o christ_n and_o do_v real_o though_o not_o audible_o say_v with_o they_o in_o the_o gospel_n luk._n 19_o 14._o we_o will_v not_o have_v this_o man_n to_o reign_v over_o we_o however_o man_n pretend_v to_o and_o boast_v of_o their_o relation_n to_o and_o acquaintance_n with_o god_n certain_o all_o that_o live_v a_o mere_a sensual_a life_n non-conformists'_a to_o the_o image_n of_o god_n be_v true_o say_v to_o be_v stranger_n to_o he_o and_o in_o a_o state_n of_o non-communion_n with_o he_o 1_o joh._n 1._o 6._o 2_o cor._n 6._o 14._o 2._o the_o life_n of_o a_o true_a christian_a be_v the_o most_o high_a and_o noble_a life_n in_o the_o world_n it_o exceed_v the_o life_n of_o all_o other_o man_n even_o of_o the_o great_a of_o man_n the_o character_n that_o be_v here_o give_v of_o the_o godly_a man_n be_v the_o high_a that_o can_v be_v give_v of_o any_o man_n or_o indeed_o of_o any_o creature_n it_o be_v the_o high_a glory_n and_o excellency_n of_o the_o creature_n to_o partake_v of_o the_o life_n of_o god_n of_o the_o perfection_n of_o the_o creator_n and_o such_o be_v the_o description_n that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n here_o make_v of_o the_o godly_a man_n what_o a_o unreasonable_a and_o senseless_a reproach_n be_v that_o which_o this_o wicked_a world_n do_v cast_v upon_o religion_n call_v it_o a_o low_a and_o despicable_a thing_n and_o upon_o religious_a and_o godly_a man_n call_v they_o low_o spirit_v puny_a people_n can_v a_o man_n be_v better_o spirit_v than_o with_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n can_v any_o thing_n more_o true_o ennoble_v a_o soul_n than_o a_o divine_a nature_n can_v a_o man_n be_v raise_v any_o high_a than_o unto_o heaven_n itself_o so_o noble_a be_v the_o godly_a soul_n prov._n 15._o 24._o the_o way_n of_o life_n be_v above_o to_o the_o wise_a and_o consequent_o all_o wicked_a man_n lead_v a_o low_a life_n and_o be_v bind_v under_o chain_n of_o death_n and_o darkness_n the_o righteous_a man_n be_v of_o a_o high_a and_o divine_a original_n bear_v of_o god_n bear_v from_o above_o and_o therefore_o be_v more_o excellent_a than_o his_o neighbour_n than_o any_o of_o his_o neighbour_n even_o a_o king_n himself_o be_v judge_n prov._n 12._o 26._o what_o a_o hellish_a baseness_n be_v that_o sinful_a gallantry_n of_o spirit_n what_o a_o brutishness_n be_v that_o sensuality_n of_o live_v which_o the_o degenerate_a son_n of_o adam_n do_v so_o much_o magnify_v true_a goodness_n and_o excellency_n of_o spirit_n must_v be_v measure_v by_o the_o proportion_n that_o it_o bear_v to_o the_o supreme_a good_a the_o infinite_a pattern_n of_o all_o perfection_n what_o excellent_a person_n be_v those_o renown_a saint_n of_o old_a of_o who_o the_o apostle_n say_v that_o the_o world_n be_v not_o worthy_a heb._n 11._o 38._o however_o they_o be_v think_v not_o worthy_a to_o live_v in_o the_o world_n what_o a_o noble_a and_o generous_a spirit_n of_o true_a christian_a valour_n patience_n meekness_n contempt_n of_o the_o world_n and_o self-denial_n be_v that_o which_o be_v to_o be_v see_v in_o the_o bless_a apostle_n however_o they_o be_v esteem_v as_o the_o filth_n and_o sweep_n of_o the_o world_n the_o offscouring_a of_o all_o thing_n to_o which_o of_o the_o noble_a wise_a mighty_a man_n of_o the_o world_n as_o such_o do_v god_n ever_o say_v these_o as_o the_o man_n that_o have_v fellowship_n with_o i_o these_o be_v the_o man_n that_o lead_v a_o noble_a and_o divine_a life_n no_o no_o not_o many_o noble_a be_v call_v and_o when_o they_o be_v call_v they_o be_v make_v more_o noble_a than_o ever_o they_o be_v by_o birth_n or_o descent_n by_o place_n of_o preferment_n or_o command_n the_o life_n of_o every_o wicked_a man_n of_o what_o rank_n or_o size_n soever_o he_o be_v in_o the_o world_n be_v but_o a_o low_a life_n a_o life_n in_o most_o thing_n common_a to_o the_o very_a beast_n with_o he_o if_o the_o main_a of_o his_o business_n and_o delight_n be_v to_o eat_v and_o drink_v and_o work_v and_o sleep_v and_o enjoy_v sensual_a pleasure_n what_o do_v he_o what_o enjoy_v he_o more_o than_o the_o beast_n that_o perish_v but_o the_o life_n of_o the_o mean_a soul_n that_o have_v true_a and_o spiritual_a communion_n with_o god_n be_v a_o life_n common_a to_o he_o with_o the_o bless_a angel_n those_o son_n of_o the_o morning_n the_o flower_n of_o the_o whole_a creation_n that_o life_n which_o have_v self_n for_o its_o centre_n must_v needs_o be_v a_o penurious_a and_o indeed_o a_o painful_a life_n for_o how_o can_v the_o soul_n of_o man_n possible_o feed_v to_o the_o full_a upon_o such_o spare_a diet_n such_o scant_a fare_n as_o it_o find_v at_o home_n nay_o indeed_o how_o can_v it_o choose_v but_o be_v in_o pain_n and_o torture_n while_o it_o stretch_v itself_o upon_o a_o selfsufficiency_n or_o creature-fulness_n which_o be_v not_o at_o all_o commensurate_n to_o it_o but_o the_o soul_n that_o right_o stretch_v and_o spend_v all_o its_o faculty_n upon_o the_o infinite_a and_o bless_a god_n find_v all_o its_o capacity_n fill_v up_o to_o the_o brim_n with_o that_o fountain_n of_o goodness_n and_o itself_o perfect_o match_v with_o a_o suitable_a and_o satisfactory_a object_n this_o be_v the_o true_a and_o only_a nobleness_n of_o spirit_n when_o all_o the_o power_n and_o faculty_n of_o this_o immortal_a soul_n be_v exalt_v and_o advance_v into_o a_o true_a and_o vital_a sympathy_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o chief_a good_a form_v according_a to_o his_o will_n conform_v to_o his_o image_n and_o oh_o that_o wisdom_n may_v be_v more_o justify_v of_o her_o child_n oh_o that_o the_o life_n of_o god_n do_v but_o clear_o manifest_v itself_o and_o shine_v forth_o in_o the_o life_n of_o they_o that_o call_v themselves_o godly_a alas_o that_o ever_o god_n himself_o shall_v suffer_v reproach_n by_o reason_n of_o the_o low-spiritedness_a and_o laziness_n of_o his_o servant_n for_o this_o cause_n be_v religion_n evil_a speak_v of_o the_o lord_n awaken_v and_o ennoble_v we_o to_o express_v and_o show_v forth_o the_o divine_a life_n with_o all_o power_n and_o vigour_n to_o live_v as_o high_a as_o the_o call_n wherewith_o we_o be_v call_v and_o so_o roll_v away_o this_o reproach_n 3._o the_o life_n of_o a_o christian_a be_v not_o a_o heavy_a sluggish_a thing_n but_o active_a and_o vigorous_a as_o the_o phrase_n communion_n with_o god_n import_v religion_n be_v a_o communication_n of_o life_n and_o vigour_n from_o he_o who_o be_v life_n itself_o which_o make_v the_o true_o godlike_a soul_n to_o be_v quick_a and_o powerful_a in_o its_o motion_n every_o thing_n be_v by_o so_o much_o the_o swift_a and_o strong_a in_o its_o motion_n by_o how_o much_o the_o near_o it_o be_v to_o its_o centre_n as_o philosophy_n tell_v we_o certain_o by_o how_o much_o the_o near_o any_o man_n be_v get_v to_o god_n who_o be_v the_o centre_n of_o soul_n by_o so_o much_o the_o more_o do_v he_o covet_v after_o more_o intimate_a communion_n with_o he_o and_o the_o more_o eager_o lie_v hold_v upon_o he_o communion_n do_v necessary_o imply_v reaction_n or_o reflection_n the_o soul_n that_o receive_v of_o god_n and_o his_o fullness_n will_v certain_o be_v empty_v itself_o into_o he_o again_o communion_n in_o the_o very_a force_n of_o the_o phrase_n imply_v a_o mutualness_n we_o can_v suppose_v a_o soul_n partake_v of_o god_n but_o it_o must_v needs_o mutual_o render_v up_o itself_o to_o he_o again_o there_o can_v be_v no_o commerce_n nor_o correspondence_n without_o return_n but_o what_o return_n can_v the_o godly_a soul_n make_v unto_o
life_n into_o which_o true_a religion_n daily_o spring_v up_o and_o will_v at_o length_n infallible_o conduct_v the_o christian_a soul_n unto_o this_o work_n thus_o undertake_v and_o in_o a_o great_a measure_n then_o carry_v on_o i_o have_v since_o perfect_v and_o do_v here_o present_v to_o the_o perusal_n of_o my_o dear_a country_n have_v make_v it_o public_a for_o no_o private_a end_n but_o if_o it_o may_v be_v to_o serve_v the_o interest_n of_o god_n glory_n in_o the_o world_n which_o i_o do_v very_o reckon_v that_o i_o shall_v do_v if_o by_o his_o blessing_n i_o may_v be_v instrumental_a to_o undeceive_v any_o soul_n mistake_v in_o so_o high_a and_o concern_v a_o matter_n as_o religion_n be_v or_o any_o way_n to_o awaken_v and_o quicken_v any_o religious_a soul_n not_o sufficient_o ravish_v with_o the_o unspeakable_a glory_n nor_o cheerful_o enough_o spring_v up_o into_o the_o full_a fruition_n of_o eternal_a life_n what_o a_o certain_a and_o undefeatable_a tendency_n true_a religion_n have_v towards_o the_o eternal_a happiness_n and_o salvation_n of_o man_n soul_n will_v i_o hope_v evident_o appear_v out_o of_o the_o body_n of_o this_o small_a treatise_n but_o that_o be_v not_o all_o though_o indeed_o that_o be_v enough_o to_o commend_v it_o to_o any_o rational_a soul_n that_o be_v any_o whit_n free_a and_o ingenuous_a and_o be_v not_o so_o perfect_o debauch_v as_o to_o utter_o from_o right_a reason_n for_o it_o be_v also_o the_o sincere_a policy_n imaginable_a and_o the_o most_o unerring_a expedient_a in_o the_o world_n for_o the_o unite_n and_o establish_n of_o a_o divide_a and_o totter_a kingdom_n or_o commonwealth_n to_o demonstrate_v which_o be_v the_o very_a design_n of_o this_o preface_n it_o be_v well_o know_v oh_o that_o it_o be_v but_o as_o well_o and_o effectual_o believe_v that_o godliness_n be_v profitable_a to_o all_o thing_n and_o that_o it_o 8._o 1_o tom._n 4._o 8._o have_v the_o promise_n and_o blessing_n of_o the_o life_n that_o now_o be_v and_o of_o that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v that_o the_o right_n seek_v of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o his_o righteousness_n have_v no_o less_o than_o all_o thing_n 33._o mat._n 6._o 33._o annex_v to_o it_o how_o unmeasurable_a be_v the_o body_n and_o bulk_n of_o that_o blessedness_n to_o which_o all_o the_o comfort_n of_o this_o life_n be_v to_o be_v as_o a_o appendix_n to_o a_o volume_n but_o man_n be_v apt_a to_o shuffle_v off_o general_n therefore_o i_o will_v descend_v to_o instance_n and_o show_v in_o a_o few_o particular_n what_o a_o mighty_a influence_n religion_n in_o the_o power_n of_o it_o will_v certain_o have_v for_o the_o political_a happiness_n and_o flourish_a state_n of_o a_o nation_n wherein_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o to_o make_v it_o appear_v that_o not_o religion_n as_o some_o slanderous_o report_n but_o indeed_o the_o w●nt_n of_o it_o be_v the_o immediate_a trouhler_n of_o every_o nation_n and_o individual_a society_n yea_o and_o soul_n too_o according_a to_o that_o golden_a say_n of_o the_o holy_a apostle_n from_o whence_o come_v 1._o jam._n 4._o 1._o war_n and_o fight_n come_v they_o not_o hence_o even_o of_o your_o lust_n that_o war_n in_o your_o member_n here_o let_v i_o desire_v one_o thing_n of_o the_o reader_n and_o that_o be_v to_o bear_v in_o his_o mind_n all_o along_o where_o he_o find_v the_o word_n religion_n that_o i_o have_v principal_o a_o respect_n to_o the_o description_n give_v of_o it_o in_o the_o text_n and_o that_o i_o mean_v thereby_o a_o divine_a principle_n implant_v in_o the_o soul_n spring_v up_o into_o everlasting_a life_n and_o now_o i_o shall_v brief_o touch_v those_o fault_n both_o in_o governor_n towards_o their_o subject_n subject_n towards_o their_o governor_n and_o towards_o each_o other_o which_o do_v destroy_v the_o peaceful_a state_n and_o the_o sound_n and_o happy_a constitution_n of_o a_o body_n politic_a and_o indeed_o i_o fear_v it_o will_v run_v upon_o some_o inconvenience_n if_o not_o confusion_n to_o wave_v this_o method_n but_o out_o of_o a_o pure_a desire_n to_o avoid_v whatever_o may_v be_v interpretable_a to_o ill_a will_n curiosity_n presumption_n or_o any_o other_o bad_a disposition_n and_o that_o it_o may_v appear_v to_o any_o ingenuous_a eye_n that_o i_o be_o more_o desirous_a to_o bind_v up_o than_o to_o rake_v into_o sore_n i_o will_v express_o show_v how_o religion_n will_v heal_v the_o distemper_n of_o any_o nation_n without_o take_v any_o more_o than_o a_o implicit_a notice_n of_o the_o distemper_n themselves_o first_o then_o it_o be_v undoubted_o true_a that_o religion_n deep_o radicate_v in_o the_o nature_n of_o prince_n and_o governor_n will_v most_o effectual_o qualify_v they_o for_o the_o most_o happy_a way_n of_o reign_v every_o body_n know_v well_o enough_o what_o a_o excellent_a eucrasie_n and_o lovely_a constitution_n the_o jewish_a polity_n be_v in_o under_o the_o influence_n of_o holy_a david_n wise_a solomon_n devout_a hezekiah_n zealous_a josiah_n and_o other_o of_o the_o same_o spirit_n so_o that_o i_o need_v not_o spend_v myself_o in_o that_o enquiry_n and_o so_o consequent_o not_o upon_o that_o argument_n now_o there_o be_v many_o way_n by_o which_o it_o be_v easy_a to_o conceive_v that_o religion_n will_v rectify_v and_o well_o temper_v the_o spirit_n of_o prince_n this_o principle_n will_v very_o constitute_v the_o most_o noble_a heroical_a and_o royal_a soul_n in_o as_o much_o as_o it_o will_v not_o suffer_v man_n to_o find_v any_o unhallowed_a satisfaction_n in_o a_o divine_a authority_n but_o will_v be_v spring_v up_o into_o a_o godlike_a nature_n as_o their_o great_a and_o most_o perfective_a glory_n it_o will_v certain_o correct_v and_o limit_v the_o over-eager_a affectation_n of_o unwieldy_a greatness_n and_o unbounded_a dominion_n by_o teach_v they_o that_o the_o most_o honourable_a victory_n in_o the_o world_n be_v self-conquest_n and_o that_o the_o propagation_n of_o the_o image_n and_o kingdom_n of_o god_n in_o their_o own_o soul_n be_v infinite_o preferrible_a to_o the_o advancement_n or_o enlargement_n of_o any_o temporal_a jurisdiction_n the_o same_o holy_a principle_n be_v the_o most_o genuine_a offspring_n of_o divine_a love_n and_o benignity_n will_v also_o polish_v their_o rough_a and_o over-severe_a nature_n instruct_v they_o in_o the_o most_o sweet_a and_o oblige_a method_n of_o government_n by_o assimulate_v they_o to_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n 17._o 1_o cor._n 7._o 22._o 2_o cor._n 3._o 17._o who_o be_v infinite_o abhorrent_n from_o all_o appearance_n of_o oppression_n and_o have_v most_o admirable_o provide_v that_o his_o servant_n shall_v not_o be_v slave_n by_o make_v his_o service_n perfect_a freedom_n the_o pure_a and_o impartial_a nature_n of_o god_n can_v endure_v superstitious_a flatterer_n or_o hypocritical_a professor_n and_o the_o prince_n of_o the_o earth_n that_o be_v regenerate_v into_o his_o image_n will_v also_o estimate_v man_n according_a to_o god_n i_o mean_v according_a to_o his_o example_n who_o love_v nothing_o but_o the_o communication_n of_o himself_o and_o according_a 11._o l●u._n 2._o 11._o to_o their_o participation_n of_o his_o image_n which_o be_v only_o amiable_a and_o advanceable_a in_o the_o world_n what_o god_n reject_v in_o his_o fire-offering_n religion_n will_v teach_v prince_n to_o disgust_v in_o the_o devotion_n as_o they_o call_v they_o of_o their_o courtier_n i_o mean_v not_o only_o the_o leaven_n of_o superstitious_a pride_n and_o dogged_a morosity_n but_o also_o the_o honey_n of_o mercenary_a prostration_n and_o fawn_a adulation_n in_o a_o word_n this_o religious_a principle_n which_o make_v god_n its_o pattern_n and_o end_n spring_v from_o he_o and_o be_v always_o spring_v up_o into_o he_o will_v sovereignty_n heal_v the_o distemper_n of_o rule_v by_o humour_n self-interest_n and_o arbitrariness_n and_o teach_v man_n to_o seek_v the_o good_a of_o the_o public_a before_o self-gratifications_a for_o so_o god_n rule_v the_o world_n who_o however_o some_o man_n slander_v he_o i_o dare_v say_v have_v make_v nothing_o the_o duty_n of_o his_o creature_n but_o what_o be_v real_o the_o good_a of_o it_o neither_o do_v he_o give_v his_o people_n law_n on_o purpose_n that_o he_o may_v show_v his_o sovereignty_n in_o make_v they_o or_o his_o justice_n in_o punish_v the_o breach_n of_o they_o much_o less_o do_v he_o give_v they_o any_o such_o statute_n as_o which_o himself_o will_v as_o willing_o they_o break_v as_o keep_v so_o he_o may_v but_o the_o penalty_n what_o i_o have_v brief_o say_v concern_v political_a governor_n the_o judicious_a reader_n may_v view_v over_o again_o and_o apply_v to_o the_o ecclesiastical_a for_o i_o do_v very_o reckon_v that_o if_o the_o heart_n of_o these_o man_n be_v in_o that_o right_n religious_a temper_n and_o holy_a order_n which_o i_o have_v be_v speak_v of_o it_o will_v plentiful_o contribute_v towards_o the_o happy_a and_o
though_o faith_n abhor_v the_o blasphemy_n of_o lay_v blame_n upon_o god_n yet_o it_o so_o fix_v the_o soul_n upon_o he_o and_o cause_v she_o so_o to_o eye_n his_o hand_n and_o end_n in_o all_o mal-administrations_a of_o man_n that_o she_o have_v no_o leisure_n to_o fall_v out_o with_o man_n or_o quarrel_n with_o instrument_n these_o discontent_n i_o say_v be_v frequent_o attend_v with_o a_o evil_a and_o seditious_a zeal_n for_o relaxation_n discover_v itself_o in_o secret_a treacherous_a conspiracy_n and_o many_o time_n in_o boisterous_a and_o dare_a attempt_n these_o be_v at_o the_o first_o sight_n so_o direct_o contrary_a to_o the_o character_n give_v of_o religious_a man_n viz._n the_o 16._o psal_n 35._o 20._o gal._n 5._o 22_o 23._o col._n 3._o 12_o 13_o 14_o 15_o 16._o quiet_a of_o the_o land_n and_o the_o genius_n of_o religion_n which_o be_v whole_o make_v up_o of_o love_n peace_n long-suffering_a gentleness_n goodness_n faithfulness_n meekness_n temperance_n mercy_n kindness_n humbleness_n of_o mind_n forbearance_n forgiveness_n charity_n thankfulness_n wisdom_n that_o it_o be_v easy_a to_o conceive_v that_o religion_n in_o the_o power_n of_o it_o will_v certain_o heal_v this_o evil_a disease_n also_o there_o be_v many_o pretender_n to_o religion_n who_o complaint_n be_v still_o concern_v oppression_n and_o persecution_n their_o cry_n be_v all_o for_o liberty_n and_o deliverance_n but_o to_o make_v it_o the_o more_o passable_a and_o plausible_a they_o style_v it_o the_o advancement_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n this_o pretence_n be_v so_o fair_a but_o withal_o so_o deceitful_a that_o i_o count_v it_o worth_a my_o time_n to_o speak_v a_o little_a more_o liberal_o to_o it_o and_o here_o i_o do_v from_o the_o very_a bottom_n of_o my_o soul_n protest_v that_o i_o account_v the_o advancement_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n to_o be_v the_o most_o desirable_a thing_n in_o the_o world_n and_o that_o it_o be_v high_o become_v the_o great_a spirit_n upon_o earth_n to_o employ_v the_o very_a utmost_a zeal_n and_o diligence_n to_o assist_v the_o accomplishment_n thereof_o yea_o so_o utter_o do_v i_o abhor_v irreligion_n and_o atheism_n that_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v in_o somewhat_o a_o like_a case_n i_o do_v very_o 18._o phil._n 1._o 18._o rejoice_v that_o christ_n be_v profess_v though_o it_o be_v but_o pretend_v and_o that_o truth_n be_v own_v though_o it_o be_v not_o own_v in_o truth_n i_o will_v further_o add_v that_o the_o oppress_a and_o obstruct_v of_o the_o external_a progress_n and_o propagation_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v hate_v of_o christ_n and_o to_o be_v lament_v of_o all_o true_a christian_n yea_o i_o will_v further_o allow_v man_n a_o due_a sensibleness_n of_o their_o personal_a oppression_n and_o injury_n and_o a_o natural_a warrantable_a desire_n to_o be_v redeem_v from_o they_o and_o now_o have_v thus_o purge_v myself_o i_o entreat_v the_o christian_a reader_n patient_o and_o without_o prejudice_n to_o suffer_v i_o to_o speak_v somewhat_o close_o to_o this_o matter_n yea_o i_o do_v very_o assure_v myself_o that_o i_o shall_v be_v accept_v or_o at_o least_o indulge_v by_o all_o free_a and_o ingenuous_a spirit_n who_o be_v right_o acquaint_v with_o the_o genius_n of_o christian_a religion_n and_o do_v prefer_v truth_n before_o interest_n and_o first_o for_o the_o complaint_n that_o be_v most_o concern_v oppression_n and_o persecution_n certain_o religion_n if_o it_o do_v right_o prevail_v in_o our_o heart_n will_v very_o much_o heal_v this_o distemper_n if_o not_o by_o a_o perfect_a silence_v of_o these_o complaint_n yet_o sure_o by_o put_v they_o into_o another_o tune_n i_o reckon_v that_o religion_n quite_o silence_n these_o complaint_n when_o it_o engage_v the_o soul_n so_o entire_o in_o serve_v the_o end_n of_o god_n in_o affliction_n and_o in_o a_o right_a improvement_n of_o they_o for_o religious_a purpose_n that_o she_o listen_v not_o to_o spend_v herself_o in_o fruitless_a murmur_n and_o unchristian_a indignation_n as_o fire_n seize_v upon_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v combustible_a and_o make_v it_o fuel_n for_o itself_o and_o a_o predominant_a humour_n in_o the_o body_n convert_v into_o its_o own_o substance_n whatever_o be_v convertible_a and_o make_v it_o nourishment_n to_o itself_o so_o doubtless_o this_o spirit_n of_o burn_a this_o divine_a principle_n if_o it_o be_v right_o predominant_a in_o the_o soul_n will_v nourish_v itself_o by_o all_o thing_n that_o lie_v in_o its_o way_n though_o they_o seem_v never_o so_o heterogeneous_a and_o hard_o to_o be_v digest_v and_o rather_o than_o want_v meat_n it_o will_v with_o samson_n fetch_v it_o out_o of_o the_o very_a eater_n himself_o but_o if_o religion_n shall_v not_o utter_o silence_v these_o complain_n by_o render_v the_o soul_n thus_o forgetful_a of_o the_o body_n and_o regardless_o of_o its_o smart_n in_o comparison_n of_o the_o happy_a advantage_n that_o may_v be_v make_v of_o it_o yet_o methinks_v it_o shall_v draw_v the_o main_a stream_n of_o these_o tear_n into_o a_o other_o channel_n and_o put_v these_o complaint_n into_o a_o other_o tune_n it_o be_v very_o natural_a to_o the_o religious_a soul_n to_o make_v god_n all_o thing_n unto_o itself_o to_o lay_v to_o heart_n the_o interest_n of_o truth_n and_o holiness_n more_o than_o any_o particular_a interest_n of_o its_o own_o and_o to_o bewail_v the_o disservice_n do_v to_o god_n more_o than_o any_o self-incommodation_a must_v not_o he_o needs_o be_v a_o good_a subject_n to_o his_o prince_n who_o can_v more_o hearty_o mourn_v that_o god_n law_n be_v not_o keep_v than_o that_o he_o himself_o be_v keep_v under_o that_o can_v be_v more_o grieve_v that_o man_n be_v cruel_a than_o that_o they_o kill_v he_o that_o can_v be_v more_o trouble_v because_o there_o be_v oppression_n in_o the_o world_n than_o because_o he_o himself_o be_v oppress_v such_o subject_n religion_n alone_o can_v make_v as_o for_o the_o cry_n that_o be_v make_v for_o liberty_n and_o deliverance_n i_o confess_v i_o do_v not_o easy_o apprehend_v what_o be_v more_o or_o more_o natural_o desirable_a than_o true_a liberty_n yea_o i_o believe_v there_o be_v many_o devout_a and_o religious_a soul_n that_o from_o a_o right_n noble_a and_o generous_a principle_n and_o out_o of_o a_o sincere_a respect_n to_o the_o author_n and_o end_n of_o their_o creation_n be_v almost_o intemperate_o studious_a of_o it_o do_v prefer_v it_o above_o all_o preferment_n 〈◊〉_d hang_v that_o may_v be_v proper_o 〈◊〉_d ●●sual_a and_o will_v purchase_v it_o with_o any_o thing_n that_o they_o can_v possible_o part_v with_o but_o yet_o that_o i_o may_v a_o little_a moderate_a if_o not_o quite_o stifle_v this_o cry_n i_o must_v free_o profess_v that_o i_o do_v apprehend_v too_o much_o of_o sensuality_n general_o in_o it_o because_o this_o liberty_n be_v common_o abstract_v from_o the_o proper_a end_n of_o it_o and_o desire_v mere_o as_o a_o 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discover_v their_o father_n nakedness_n if_o we_o do_v real_o value_v ourselves_o by_o our_o soul_n and_o our_o soul_n themselves_o by_o what_o they_o possess_v of_o the_o image_n of_o god_n if_o we_o do_v right_o prefer_v the_o advancement_n of_o the_o divine_a life_n before_o the_o gratification_n of_o the_o animal_n it_o be_v easy_a to_o conceive_v how_o we_o shall_v prefer_v patience_n before_o prosperity_n faith_n in_o god_n before_o the_o favour_n of_o man_n spiritual_a purity_n before_o temporal_a pleasure_n or_o preferment_n humility_n before_o honour_n the_o denial_n of_o ourselves_o before_o the_o approbation_n of_o other_o the_o advancement_n of_o god_n image_n before_o the_o advancement_n of_o our_o own_o name_n a_o opportunity_n of_o exercise_v gracious_a disposition_n before_o the_o exercise_v of_o any_o temporal_a power_n or_o secular_a authority_n and_o in_o a_o word_n the_o display_v of_o the_o beauty_n glory_n and_o perfection_n of_o god_n before_o health_n wealth_n liberty_n livelihood_n and_o life_n itself_o we_o shall_v certain_o be_v more_o indifferent_o affect_v towards_o any_o condition_n whether_o prosperity_n or_o adversity_n and_o not_o be_v so_o fond_a of_o the_o one_o nor_o weary_a of_o the_o other_o if_o we_o do_v very_o value_v they_o only_o by_o the_o tendency_n that_o they_o have_v to_o further_a religion_n and_o advance_v the_o life_n of_o christ_n in_o our_o soul_n this_o will_v certain_o make_v man_n more_o sincere_o studious_a to_o reap_v god_n end_n in_o afflict_v they_o and_o less_o longing_n to_o see_v the_o end_n of_o their_o affliction_n and_o as_o for_o treachery_n plotting_n invasion_n usurpation_n rebellion_n and_o that_o tumultuous_a zeal_n for_o relaxation_n which_o this_o impatience_n of_o oppression_n and_o fondness_n of_o deliverance_n do_v so_o often_o grow_v up_o into_o i_o dare_v say_v there_o be_v nothing_o like_o religion_n in_o the_o power_n of_o it_o for_o the_o effectual_a heal_n of_o they_o the_o true_a spirit_n of_o religion_n be_v not_o so_o weary_a of_o oppression_n though_o it_o be_v by_o sinful_a man_n as_o it_o be_v abhorrent_n from_o deliverance_n if_o it_o be_v by_o sinful_a mean_n may_v 1._o 1_o cor._n 3._o 1._o i_o not_o be_v allow_v to_o allude_v to_o the_o apostle_n and_o say_v whereas_o there_o be_v among_o you_o this_o zeal_n contention_n and_o faction_n be_v you_o not_o carnal_a and_o walk_v as_o man_n be_v not_o this_o the_o same_o which_o a_o mere_a natural_a man_n will_v do_v strive_v and_o struggle_v by_o right_n and_o by_o wrong_a to_o redeem_v himself_o from_o whatsoever_o be_v grievous_a and_o gall_v to_o the_o interest_n of_o the_o flesh_n may_v it_o not_o be_v reasonable_o suppose_v that_o if_o religion_n do_v but_o display_v itself_o aright_o in_o the_o powerful_a act_n of_o faith_n hope_n and_o humility_n it_o will_v quench_v this_o scald_a zeal_n and_o calm_v these_o tempestuous_a motion_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o make_v man_n rather_o content_a to_o be_v deliver_v up_o to_o the_o adversary_n though_o the_o flesh_n shall_v by_o he_o be_v destroy_v so_o by_o the_o spirit_n may_v be_v save_v and_o the_o divine_a life_n advance_v in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o lord_n oh_o how_o dear_a and_o precious_a be_v the_o possession_n and_o practice_n of_o faith_n patitnce_n humility_n and_o self-denial_n to_o a_o godly_a soul_n in_o comparison_n of_o all_o the_o joy_n and_o toy_n treasure_n pleasure_n ease_n and_o honour_n of_o the_o world_n the_o safety_n and_o liberty_n of_o the_o flesh_n how_o much_o more_o then_o when_o these_o must_v be_v accomplish_v by_o wicked_a mean_n and_o purchase_v at_o the_o rate_n of_o god_n displeasure_n and_o because_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n be_v so_o often_o allege_v to_o defend_v and_o patronize_v these_o strange_a fervour_n and_o frenzy_n let_v i_o here_o brief_o record_v to_o all_o that_o shall_v read_v these_o line_n the_o way_n and_o method_n of_o christ_n himself_o in_o propagate_a his_o own_o kingdom_n it_o will_v not_o be_v deny_v but_o that_o christ_n be_v infinite_o studious_a to_o promote_v his_o own_o kingdom_n in_o the_o best_a and_o most_o proper_a sense_n but_o i_o no_o where_o read_v that_o he_o ever_o attempt_v it_o by_o force_n or_o fraud_n by_o violent_a opposition_n or_o crafty_a insinuation_n nay_o he_o reckon_v that_o his_o kingdom_n be_v then_o true_o promote_v when_o these_o tumultuous_a impatient_a imperious_a proud_a lust_n of_o man_n be_v mortify_v nothing_o have_v be_v more_o easy_a with_o he_o consider_v his_o miraculous_a power_n infalsible_a 29._o mat._n 11._o 29._o wisdom_n and_o the_o mighty_a interest_n and_o party_n which_o he_o can_v by_o these_o have_v make_v for_o himself_o in_o the_o world_n than_o to_o have_v raise_v his_o own_o kingdom_n upon_o the_o ruin_n of_o the_o roman_a and_o to_o have_v quite_o shuffle_v caesar_n out_o of_o the_o world_n but_o indeed_o nothing_o more_o impossible_a consider_v the_o perfect_a innocency_n and_o infinite_a sacredness_n of_o his_o temper_n nor_o any_o thing_n more_o contradictious_a consider_v the_o proper_a notion_n of_o his_o kingdom_n which_o he_o profess_v not_o be_v secular_a and_o so_o not_o be_v maintain_v by_o fight_v but_o if_o you_o will_v 37._o john_n 18._o 16._o ver_fw-la 37._o know_v in_o what_o sense_n he_o be_v a_o king_n he_o himself_o seem_v to_o intimate_v it_o in_o his_o answer_n to_o pilate_n thou_o say_v that_o i_o be_o a_o king_n to_o this_o end_n be_v i_o bear_v that_o i_o shall_v bear_v witness_n unto_o the_o truth_n so_o than_o it_o seem_v where_o ever_o there_o be_v truth_n and_o holiness_n predominant_a there_o be_v christ_n real_o enthrone_v and_o actual_o triumphant_a where_o religion_n do_v vital_o inform_v animate_v and_o actuate_v man_n soul_n it_o do_v make_v they_o right_o to_o understand_v that_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n be_v not_o the_o thrive_a of_o party_n the_o strengthen_n of_o faction_n the_o advancement_n of_o any_o particular_a interest_n though_o it_o seem_v to_o be_v of_o never_o so_o evangelical_n a_o complexion_n nor_o yet_o the_o proselyte_n of_o the_o world_n to_o the_o profession_n of_o christianity_n or_o of_o the_o christian_a world_n to_o the_o pure_a and_o more_o reform_a profession_n of_o it_o though_o these_o latter_a will_v be_v a_o great_a external_a honour_n to_o the_o person_n of_o christ_n but_o that_o it_o be_v most_o proper_o and_o happy_o propagate_v in_o the_o spirit_n of_o man_n and_o that_o where_o ever_o there_o be_v faith_n patience_n humility_n self_n denial_n contempt_n of_o this_o world_n and_o pregnant_a hope_n of_o a_o better_a pure_a obedience_n to_o god_n and_o sincere_a benignity_n to_o man_n here_o and_o there_o be_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n christ_n regnant_n and_o the_o gospel_n in_o the_o power_n and_o triumph_v of_o it_o and_o may_v not_o these_o thing_n be_v and_o be_v most_o conspicuous_o in_o a_o persecute_a condition_n of_o the_o church_n that_o certain_o be_v a_o high_a instance_n of_o the_o mighty_a power_n of_o the_o divine_a life_n in_o our_o bless_a saviour_n which_o the_o apostle_n peter_n record_v of_o he_o who_o when_o he_o be_v revile_v revile_v not_o again_o 23._o 1_o pet._n 2._o 23._o when_o he_o suffer_v he_o threaten_v not_o but_o commit_v himself_o to_o he_o that_o judge_v righteous_o the_o same_o divine_a principle_n dwell_v plentiful_o in_o our_o soul_n will_v instruct_v we_o to_o the_o same_o behaviour_n according_a to_o the_o precept_n give_v by_o the_o same_o apostle_n not_o render_v evil_a 9_o 1._o pet._n 3._o 9_o sore_o evil_a or_o rail_v for_o rail_v but_o contrariwise_o blessing_n etc._n etc._n how_o vain_o do_v man_n dream_v that_o they_o serve_v the_o interest_n and_o advance_v the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n by_o fierce_a and_o rage_a endeavour_n to_o cast_v off_o every_o yoke_n that_o gall_v they_o and_o kick_v against_o every_o thorn_n that_o prick_v they_o when_o indeed_o they_o serve_v the_o interest_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o do_v under_o a_o fine_a cloak_n gratify_v the_o mere_a animal_n life_n and_o sacrifice_n to_o self-love_n which_o be_v as_o covetous_a of_o freedom_n from_o all_o retrenchment_n and_o confinement_n as_o religion_n itself_o can_v be_v it_o be_v say_v indeed_o that_o when_o the_o church_n have_v rest_v they_o be_v edify_v and_o multiply_v but_o when_o they_o suffer_v according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n they_o 19_o act_n 9_o 31._o 1_o pet._n 4._o 14._o 2_o cor._n 12._o 19_o be_v then_o glorify_v for_o the_o spirit_n of_o glory_n and_o of_o god_n rest_v upon_o they_o as_o the_o apostle_n paul_n profess_v of_o himself_o in_o that_o most_o noble_a and_o heroical_a passage_n of_o he_o to_o the_o corinthian_n most_o glad_o therefore_o will_v i_o rather_o glory_n in_o my_o infirmity_n that_o the_o power_n of_o christ_n may_v rest_v upon_o i_o second_o religion_n will_v not_o fail_v right_o to_o dispose_v the_o
heart_n of_o subject_n towards_o one_o another_o and_o that_o whether_o they_o be_v of_o the_o same_o way_n and_o judgement_n with_o themselves_o or_o different_a i_o dare_v not_o assert_v that_o it_o will_v make_v they_o all_o of_o the_o same_o way_n and_o mind_n neither_o do_v i_o believe_v it_o will_v yet_o i_o be_o confident_a it_o will_v do_v more_o towards_o this_o catholic_n union_n than_o all_o the_o law_n and_o severity_n in_o the_o world_n can_v mutual_a forbearance_n and_o forgiveness_n christian_a kindness_n and_o discreet_a condescension_n be_v the_o most_o warrantable_a and_o most_o effectual_a method_n for_o introduce_v uniformity_n and_o unanimity_n too_o which_o be_v much_o better_o into_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n but_o however_o religion_n will_v certain_o give_v a_o right_a disposition_n and_o teach_v man_n aright_o behaviour_n respective_a to_o each_o other_o whether_o friend_n or_o dissenter_n this_o principle_n will_v teach_v man_n to_o love_v their_o friend_n and_o accomplice_n only_o in_o the_o lord_n as_o his_o member_n not_o as_o their_o own_o partisan_n be_v not_o they_o strange_o devote_v to_o interest_n that_o will_v vindicate_v any_o thing_n in_o a_o partisan_n which_o they_o will_v declaim_v against_o in_o a_o dissenter_n and_o yet_o how_o be_v the_o sacred_a name_n of_o christian_a friendship_n reproach_v everywhere_o by_o reason_n of_o this_o partiality_n how_o much_o better_o do_v true_a religion_n instruct_v the_o great_a apostle_n to_o know_v no_o man_n after_o the_o flesh_n no_o 16._o 2._o cor._n 5._o 16._o not_o christ_n himself_o the_o same_o principle_n will_v not_o fail_v to_o cure_v the_o distemper_n of_o man_n respective_a to_o those_o that_o be_v of_o a_o different_a way_n and_o judgement_n from_o themselves_o whether_o of_o protestant_o towards_o protestant_n or_o protestant_n and_o papist_n one_o towards_o another_o it_o will_v heal_v the_o distemper_a affection_n and_o behaviour_n of_o protestant_n towards_o protestant_n be_v man_n thorough_o baptise_a into_o the_o spirit_n of_o love_n and_o wisdom_n which_o be_v so_o lively_o portray_v by_o the_o apostle_n st._n paul_n and_o st._n james_n that_o one_o may_v well_o be_v enamour_v of_o the_o very_a description_n how_o certain_o will_v all_o oppression_n law-suit_n disputation_n about_o unprofitable_a and_o indeterminable_a point_n either_o be_v suppress_v or_o sanctify_v either_o not_o be_v or_o not_o be_v vexatious_a not_o to_o speak_v of_o the_o oppression_n do_v by_o overreach_v steal_v lie_a false-witness-bearing_a slanderous_a detrectation_n envious_a suggestion_n and_o malignant_a dissemination_n of_o doubtful_a suspicion_n by_o which_o common_o poor_a man_n oppress_v the_o rich_a all_o which_o true_a religion_n abhor_v there_o be_v a_o great_a oppression_n that_o go_v uncontrolled_a in_o the_o world_n which_o be_v by_o the_o cruel_a engrossing_n and_o covetrous_a insatiable_a trade_n of_o rich_a man_n what_o these_o be_v intentional_o i_o will_v not_o say_v but_o that_o they_o be_v real_o and_o eventual_o as_o great_a oppression_n as_o those_o inhuman_a depopulation_n and_o squeeze_v exaction_n which_o be_v so_o much_o inveigh_v against_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o be_v they_o what_o they_o will_v or_o be_v they_o excuse_v how_o they_o will_v i_o be_o confident_a that_o this_o divine_a principle_n that_o powerful_o spring_v up_o into_o everlasting_a life_n will_v mighty_o relieve_v the_o world_n in_o this_o respect_n in_o that_o it_o will_v moderate_v man_n desire_n of_o corruptible_a riches_n forbid_v they_o to_o seek_v the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n any_o more_o or_o any_o otherwise_o than_o in_o consistency_n with_o and_o subserviency_n to_o their_o primary_n and_o most_o diligent_a seek_v of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n it_o will_v make_v man_n seek_v the_o wealth_n of_o other_o even_o as_o their_o own_o and_o make_v private_a advantage_n stoop_v to_o the_o public_a good_a i_o do_v very_o believe_v that_o if_o there_o be_v none_o but_o good_a man_n in_o england_n there_o will_v be_v no_o poor_a man_n there_o civil_a law_n may_v provide_v for_o the_o maintenance_n of_o the_o poor_a but_o the_o law_n of_o divine_a love_n a_o principle_n of_o religion_n if_o it_o be_v universal_o obey_v will_v make_v man_n so_o noble_o regardless_o of_o earthly_a accommodation_n that_o there_o will_v soon_o be_v room_n enough_o for_o all_o man_n to_o thrive_v into_o a_o sufficient_a stature_n and_o then_o be_v so_o grow_v they_o will_v covet_v no_o more_o in_o lawsuit_n if_o there_o be_v any_o man_n will_v seek_v the_o advancement_n of_o truth_n and_o not_o of_o their_o own_o cause_n and_o interest_n distinct_a from_o it_o and_o oh_o how_o excellent_o will_v it_o still_o the_o noise_n of_o axe_n and_o hammer_n about_o the_o temple_n of_o god_n it_o will_v take_v man_n off_o from_o vain_a speculation_n and_o much_o eagerness_n about_o unnecessary_a opinion_n by_o employ_v they_o in_o more_o 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judge_v by_o something_o external_a and_o indeed_o separable_a from_o the_o essence_n of_o a_o true_a church_n and_o hereabout_o be_v their_o zeal_n their_o conference_n and_o their_o very_a prayer_n themselves_o most_o bestow_v who_o can_v doubt_v but_o that_o religion_n in_o the_o power_n of_o it_o will_v find_v man_n something_o else_o to_o do_v yea_o and_o if_o it_o can_v not_o perfect_o determine_v these_o nicety_n yet_o it_o will_v much_o heal_v our_o dissension_n about_o they_o and_o bring_v tear_n to_o quench_v the_o strange_a and_o unnatural_a heat_n that_o be_v among_o we_o and_o cause_v such_o dreadful_a inflammation_n in_o our_o bowel_n but_o it_o may_v seem_v that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o fatal_a enmity_n and_o irreconcilable_a feud_n betwixt_o papist_n and_o protestant_n that_o nothing_o no_o not_o religion_n itself_o can_v heal_v it_o and_o true_o if_o we_o suppose_v that_o it_o be_v religion_n that_o engage_v both_o party_n in_o this_o enmity_n i_o think_v it_o will_v prove_v incurable_a but_o god_n forbid_v that_o this_o pure_a offspring_n of_o heaven_n shall_v be_v so_o blaspheamed_a it_o be_v not_o religion_n but_o indeed_o the_o want_n of_o it_o that_o beget_v this_o implacable_a animosity_n whatever_o be_v pretend_v cruel_a religion_n bloody_a religion_n selfish_a religion_n envious_a and_o revengeful_a religion_n who_o can_v choose_v but_o cry_n out_o of_o the_o blasphemy_n of_o this_o contradiction_n at_o the_o very_a first_o hear_n nay_o i_o dare_v affirm_v it_o without_o haesitation_n that_o the_o more_o religious_a any_o protestant_n or_o papist_n be_v the_o more_o abhorrent_n he_o be_v from_o brutish_a savageness_n wicked_a revenge_n and_o devilish_a hatred_n the_o church_n of_o rome_n judge_n the_o reform_a heretic_n be_v not_o fit_a to_o live_v and_o why_o not_o because_o they_o live_v not_o well_o but_o because_o they_o can_v think_v and_o believe_v as_o they_o do_v and_o be_v this_o the_o genuine_a product_n of_o true_a religion_n nothing_o less_o for_o a_o desire_n of_o rule_v over_o man_n conscience_n and_o of_o subject_v the_o faith_n of_o other_o to_o themselves_o be_v certain_o compatible_a to_o a_o mere_a natural_a man_n nay_o to_o the_o devil_n himself_o who_o be_v as_o lordly_a cruel_a and_o imperious_a as_o any_o other_o the_o reform_a church_n on_o the_o other_o hand_n be_v i_o doubt_v general_o more_o offend_v at_o the_o papist_n for_o their_o persecution_n of_o they_o than_o for_o their_o real_a persecute_v and_o crucify_a christ_n afresh_o by_o their_o sin_n and_o so_o consequent_o do_v rather_o write_v and_o fight_v against_o they_o than_o either_o pity_n or_o pray_v for_o they_o i_o hope_v there_o be_v as_o many_o well-spirited_n christian_n in_o england_n at_o least_o proportionable_o as_o in_o any_o church_n upon_o earth_n and_o yet_o i_o fear_v there_o be_v far_o more_o that_o can_v wish_v the_o papist_n out_o of_o this_o world_n than_o that_o earnest_o desire_v that_o they_o may_v be_v fit_v for_o and_o so_o count_v worthy_a of_o a_o better_a and_o do_v
this_o spring_n from_o a_o religious_a principle_n think_v you_o or_o a_o selfish_n do_v it_o not_o agree_v well_o to_o the_o animal_n life_n and_o natural_a self_n to_o be_v tender_a of_o its_o own_o interest_n and_o concernment_n to_o wish_v well_o to_o its_o own_o safety_n to_o defend_v itself_o from_o violence_n may_v i_o not_o allude_v to_o our_o saviour_n word_n and_o say_v if_o you_o hate_v they_o that_o hate_v you_o 46._o mat._n 5._o 46._o how_o can_v that_o be_v account_v religious_a do_v not_o even_o the_o publican_n the_o same_o i_o doubt_v we_o know_v not_o sufficient_o what_o spirit_n we_o shall_v be_v of_o the_o power_n of_o religion_n right_o prevail_v in_o the_o soul_n will_v mould_n we_o into_o another_o kind_n of_o temper_n it_o will_v teach_v we_o as_o well_o to_o love_v and_o pity_n and_o pray_v for_o papist_n 21._o mat._n 5._o 44._o rev._n 19_o 20_o 21._o as_o to_o hate_v popery_n i_o know_v the_o prophecy_n indeed_o that_o the_o beast_n and_o the_o false_a prophet_n shall_v be_v cast_v alive_a into_o the_o lake_n burn_v with_o brimstone_n and_o the_o remnant_n shall_v be_v slay_v with_o the_o sword_n of_o he_o that_o sit_v upon_o the_o horse_n but_o in_o as_o much_o as_o that_o sword_n be_v say_v to_o proceed_v out_o of_o his_o mouth_n i_o will_v 5._o eph._n 6._o 17._o hos._n 6._o 5._o glad_o interpret_v it_o of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n which_o kill_v man_n unto_o salvation_n however_o let_v the_o interpretation_n of_o that_o text_n and_o other_o of_o the_o like_a importance_n be_v what_o it_o will_v i_o reckon_v it_o very_o unsafe_a to_o turn_v all_o the_o prophecy_n and_o threaten_n of_o god_n into_o prayer_n lest_o haply_o we_o shall_v be_v find_v to_o contribute_v to_o the_o damn_v of_o man_n soul_n yea_o when_o all_o be_v 12._o 2_o thes_n 2._o 12._o say_v concern_v the_o reprobate_v decree_n of_o god_n and_o his_o essential_a inflexible_a punitive_a justice_n and_o all_o those_o text_n that_o seem_v to_o speak_v of_o god_n revenge_v himself_o with_o delight_n be_v interpret_v to_o the_o utmost_a harshness_n of_o meaning_n that_o the_o cruel_a wit_n of_o man_n can_v invent_v yet_o it_o remain_v a_o seal_v and_o to_o i_o a_o sweet_a truth_n i_o have_v no_o pleasure_n in_o the_o 11._o ezek._n 18._o 32._o chap._n 33._o 11._o death_n of_o he_o that_o die_v say_v the_o lord_n god_n and_o again_o as_o i_o live_v say_v the_o lord_n god_n i_o have_v no_o pleasure_n in_o the_o death_n of_o the_o wicked_a wherefore_o to_o wave_v all_o those_o dreadful_a gloss_n that_o do_v rather_o describe_v the_o bitter_a and_o revengeful_a ingeny_n of_o man_n that_o make_v they_o than_o interpret_v the_o pure_a and_o perfect_a nature_n of_o god_n upon_o who_o they_o be_v make_v let_v we_o attend_v to_o that_o beautiful_a character_n that_o be_v every_o where_o give_v of_o religion_n which_o be_v 6._o exod._n 32._o 32._o numb_a 11._o 29._o rom._n 92_o 3._o luke_n 19_o 10._o act_n 10._o 38._o rom._n 5._o 6._o our_o high_a concernment_n in_o the_o person_n of_o moses_n of_o paul_n and_o of_o christ_n jesus_n himself_o the_o author_n and_o exemplar_n of_o it_o who_o by_o his_o incarnation_n life_n and_o death_n abundant_o demonstrate_v the_o infinite_a benignity_n and_o compassionate_a ardour_n of_o his_o soul_n towards_o we_o when_o we_o be_v worse_o than_o papist_n as_o be_v out_o of_o a_o possibility_n of_o salvation_n without_o he_o and_o let_v that_o mind_n be_v in_o we_o which_o be_v in_o he_o also_o though_o it_o be_v not_o direct_o our_o saviour_n meaning_n in_o my_o text_n yet_o i_o believe_v it_o be_v reductive_o that_o this_o pure_a and_o divine_a principle_n religion_n spring_v up_o into_o everlasting_a life_n not_o only_o our_o own_o but_o other_o man_n also_o but_o however_o religion_n be_v describe_v sure_o i_o be_o it_o be_v most_o unnatural_a to_o the_o religious_a soul_n that_o be_v regenerate_v into_o the_o pure_a spirit_n of_o piety_n pity_n and_o universal_a charity_n to_o be_v of_o a_o cruel_a fierce_a revengeful_a damn_v disposition_n and_o therefore_o whatever_o be_v the_o rant_a and_o wrathful_a strain_n of_o some_o man_n devotion_n i_o beseech_v the_o reader_n to_o endeavour_v with_o i_o that_o charity_n towards_o man_n soul_n may_v go_v along_o in_o conjunction_n with_o zeal_n and_o piety_n towards_o god_n when_o we_o present_v ourselves_o before_o the_o throne_n of_o his_o grace_n and_o so_o i_o be_o confident_a it_o will_v if_o we_o pray_v sincere_o to_o this_o purpose_n viz._n that_o god_n will_v cause_v the_o wickedness_n of_o the_o wicked_a to_o come_v to_o a_o end_n that_o he_o will_v consume_v the_o antichrist_n but_o convert_v the_o papist_n and_o make_v the_o wonderer_n after_o the_o beast_n to_o become_v follower_n of_o the_o lamb_n i_o doubt_v there_o be_v many_o that_o think_v they_o can_v never_o be_v too_o liberal_a in_o wish_v ill_o to_o the_o papist_n nay_o they_o count_v it_o a_o notable_a argument_n of_o a_o good_a protestant_n i_o have_v almost_o say_v a_o evidence_n of_o grace_n to_o be_v very_o rage_v and_o invective_n against_o they_o alas_o how_o miserable_o do_v we_o bewray_v ourselves_o in_o so_o do_v to_o be_v nothing_o less_o than_o what_o we_o pretend_v to_o by_o do_v it_o for_o be_v not_o we_o ourselves_o herein_o antichristian_a while_o we_o complain_v of_o their_o cruelty_n our_o own_o soul_n in_o the_o very_a act_n boil_v over_o with_o revengeful_a and_o scald_a affection_n if_o we_o do_v indeed_o abhor_v their_o cruelty_n because_o it_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o holy_a precept_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o true_a kingdom_n of_o christ_n we_o ought_v to_o be_v as_o jealous_a at_o the_o same_o time_n lest_o any_o thing_n like_o unto_o it_o shall_v be_v find_v in_o ourselves_o otherwise_o be_v we_o not_o carnal_a for_o mere_a nature_n as_o i_o have_v often_o say_v will_v abhor_v any_o thing_n that_o be_v contrary_a to_o itself_o and_o will_v not_o willing_o suffer_v its_o delicate_a interest_n to_o be_v touch_v the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o that_o no_o man_n speak_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n call_v christ_n accurse_v 3._o 1_o cor_n 12._o 3._o but_o i_o doubt_v it_o be_v common_a to_o curse_v antichrist_n and_o yet_o by_o a_o spirit_n that_o be_v antichristian_a i_o mean_v carnal_a selfish_a cruel_a and_o uncharitable_a for_o there_o be_v a_o spiritual_a antichrist_n or_o if_o you_o will_v in_o the_o apostle_n phrase_n a_o spirit_n of_o antichrist_n as_o well_o as_o a_o political_a 3._o 1_o john_n 4._o 3._o antichrist_n and_o i_o doubt_v the_o former_a prevail_v most_o in_o the_o world_n though_o it_o be_v least_o discern_v and_o banned_a man_n do_v by_o antichrist_n as_o they_o do_v by_o the_o devil_n defy_v he_o in_o word_n but_o entertain_v he_o in_o their_o heart_n run_v away_o from_o the_o appearance_n of_o he_o and_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n can_v be_v well_o enough_o content_a to_o be_v all_o that_o in_o very_a deed_n which_o the_o devil_n and_o antichrist_n be_v all_o this_o evident_o appear_v to_o be_v for_o want_v of_o the_o true_a power_n and_o spirit_n of_o religion_n which_o i_o commend_v for_o so_o great_a a_o healer_n even_o the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d of_o our_o distemper_n perhaps_o no_o papist_n will_v find_v in_o his_o heart_n to_o read_v this_o epistle_n write_v by_o a_o heretic_n yet_o possible_o too_o some_o one_o or_o other_o may_v therefore_o i_o will_v adventure_v brief_o to_o prescribe_v this_o same_o medicinal_a divinity_n to_o they_o also_o though_o perhaps_o i_o may_v be_v excuse_v upon_o another_o account_n all_o that_o which_o i_o have_v hitherto_o say_v to_o distemper_a protestant_n be_v right_o enough_o mutatis_fw-la mutandis_fw-la applicable_a to_o they_o but_o moreover_o whereas_o they_o value_v their_o church_n and_o the_o truth_n and_o rightness_n of_o it_o by_o its_o universality_n and_o prosperity_n the_o power_n of_o religion_n will_v make_v man_n to_o value_v themselves_o and_o their_o adherent_n only_o by_o the_o divine_a impression_n of_o piety_n and_o purity_n and_o to_o account_v such_o only_a worthy_a of_o the_o glorious_a title_n of_o apostolical_a and_o child_n of_o god_n who_o be_v sincere_a follower_n of_o the_o apostle_n wherein_o they_o be_v follower_n of_o christ_n viz._n in_o true_a holiness_n and_o righteousness_n be_v they_o industrious_a and_o zealous_a for_o the_o proselyte_n of_o the_o world_n and_o spread_v of_o their_o interest_n far_o and_o near_o and_o be_v not_o all_o wicked_a man_n yea_o and_o the_o devil_n himself_o so_o too_o the_o fair_a and_o most_o flourish_a state_n of_o a_o church_n be_v nothing_o to_o god_n and_o so_o consequent_o not_o to_o a_o godly_a soul_n in_o comparison_n of_o those_o excellent_a divine_a beauty_n wherewith_o religion_n adorn_v the_o world_n but_o whereas_o the_o great_a
complaint_n and_o the_o most_o dreadful_a charge_n which_o the_o protestant_n bring_v against_o the_o papist_n be_v their_o immanity_n and_o most_o unchristian_a cruelty_n exercise_v against_o all_o who_o they_o can_v but_o make_v a_o shift_n to_o esteem_v heretic_n and_o they_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n allege_v that_o the_o interest_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o catholic_n faith_n do_v require_v it_o and_o that_o they_o do_v not_o so_o proper_o murder_v man_n as_o sacr●fice_v 2._o john_n 16._o 2._o they_o to_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n it_o will_v be_v proper_a to_o spend_v a_o little_a time_n at_o least_o to_o clear_a religion_n of_o this_o blame_n that_o as_o wisdom_n be_v at_o all_o time_n justify_v of_o and_o in_o her_o child_n so_o she_o may_v be_v sometime_o justify_v by_o they_o especial_o when_o the_o aspersion_n be_v so_o monstrous_a foul_a and_o indeed_o she_o have_v sufficient_o instruct_v we_o how_o to_o justify_v she_o from_o all_o such_o imputation_n have_v so_o fair_o portray_v 17._o jam._n 3._o 14_o 15_o 16_o 17._o herself_o by_o the_o pen_n of_o the_o apostle_n james_n both_o negative_o and_o affirmative_o she_o be_v void_a of_o strife_n envy_n bitterness_n and_o every_o evil_a work_n but_o she_o be_v pure_a peaceable_a gentle_a easy_a to_o be_v entreat_v full_a of_o mercy_n and_o good_a fruit_n without_o partiality_n and_o without_o hypocrisy_n this_o be_v the_o proper_a description_n of_o heavenly_a wisdom_n or_o pure_a religion_n and_o oh_o that_o all_o christian_n will_v estimate_v themselves_o to_o be_v wise_a according_a to_o their_o consonancy_n and_o conformity_n thereunto_o then_o i_o will_v easy_o believe_v that_o none_o will_v be_v papist_n in_o practice_n whatever_o they_o may_v be_v in_o opinion_n what_o sir_n be_v the_o god_n of_o christian_n become_v like_a unto_o a_o devil_n that_o he_o shall_v delight_v in_o cruelty_n and_o drink_v the_o blood_n of_o man_n be_v the_o butcher_a of_o reasonable_a creature_n that_o reasonable_a service_n which_o he_o require_v be_v the_o 15._o rom._n 12._o 1._o 2_o cor._n 6._o 15._o live_a sacrifice_n of_o your_o own_o body_n turn_v into_o the_o dead_a sacrifice_n of_o other_o man_n it_o be_v wont_a to_o be_v say_v what_o communion_n have_v christ_n with_o belial_n and_o be_v the_o prince_n of_o peace_n now_o become_v very_a satan_n the_o author_n of_o enmity_n malignity_n confusion_n and_o every_o evil_a work_n do_v he_o shed_v his_o blood_n for_o his_o enemy_n to_o teach_v we_o that_o goodly_a lesson_n of_o shed_v the_o blood_n of_o we_o do_v he_o come_v to_o seek_v and_o to_o 56._o luke_n 9_o 56._o save_v that_o which_o be_v lose_v to_o set_v we_o a_o example_n that_o we_o may_v seek_v to_o destroy_v and_o that_o only_o to_o repair_v our_o own_o loss_n be_v it_o so_o that_o the_o protestant_a church_n have_v apostatise_v from_o you_o this_o i_o hope_n be_v not_o a_o great_a crime_n than_o the_o apostasy_n of_o mankind_n from_o god_n which_o yet_o he_o expiate_v not_o with_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o apostate_n but_o with_o his_o own_o religion_n be_v former_o a_o principle_n spring_v u●_n into_o eternal_a life_n how_o be_v the_o world_n change_v that_o it_o shall_v now_o be_v a_o principle_n spring_v up_o into_o massacre_n and_o temporal_a death_n or_o be_v religion_n now_o become_v a_o principle_n spring_v up_o into_o secular_a power_n worldly_a dominion_n temporal_a greatness_n and_o all_o manner_n of_o fl●shly_a accommodation_n this_o be_v of_o old_a the_o description_n of_o sensuality_n and_o a_o heathenish_a genius_n 32._o mat._n ●_o 6._o 32._o for_o after_o all_o these_o thing_n do_v the_o gentile_n seek_v be_v there_o so_o many_o mighty_a engine_n in_o the_o gospel_n to_o engage_v the_o heart_n of_o man_n to_o believe_v profess_v and_o obey_v it_o and_o must_v they_o all_o now_o give_v place_n to_o fire_n and_o sword_n be_v these_o the_o only_a gospel-method_n of_o win_a man_n to_o the_o catholic_n faith_n what_o be_v we_o wise_a for_o christ_n or_o more_o zealous_a than_o he_o himself_o be_v do_v he_o forbid_v fire_n from_o heaven_n 55._o luke_n 9_o 55._o and_z will_v you_o fetch_v it_o even_o from_o hell_n to_o consume_v dissenter_n do_v he_o sheathe_v the_o sword_n that_o be_v draw_v in_o his_o own_o defence_n and_o set_v a_o dreadful_a seal_n upon_o it_o too_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 52._o mat._n 26._o 52._o all_o they_o that_o take_v the_o sword_n shall_v perish_v with_o the_o sword_n and_o will_v you_o adventure_v to_o draw_v it_o in_o a_o way_n of_o revenge_n and_o persecution_n and_o count_v it_o meritorious_a too_o as_o if_o you_o shall_v therefore_o never_o perish_v because_o you_o take_v it_o be_v it_o not_o write_v in_o your_o bibles_n as_o well_o as_o we_o that_o no_o murderer_n shall_v enter_v into_o the_o 15_o gal._n 5_o 21_o 1_o jo●_n 3._o 15_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o do_v you_o think_v by_o murder_n to_o propagate_v this_o kingdom_n upon_o earth_n and_o have_v a_o more_o abundant_a entrance_n into_o it_o yourselves_o hereafter_o can_v hell_n dwell_v with_o heaven_n shall_v bloody_a cruelty_n ever_o come_v to_o lodge_v in_o the_o bosom_n or_o lie_v down_o in_o the_o sacred_a arm_n of_o eternal_a love_n be_v not_o deceive_v sir_n with_o a_o false_a heaven_n but_o take_v this_o for_o a_o indubitable_a and_o self-evidencing_a aphorism_n of_o truth_n no_o soul_n of_o man_n have_v any_o more_o of_o heaven_n no_o nor_o ever_o shall_v have_v than_o he_o ●e_v have_v of_o god_n and_o of_o his_o pure_a placable_a patient_a benign_a and_o gracious_a nature_n and_o this_o be_v that_o everlasting_a life_n which_o a_o religious_a principle_n be_v always_o spring_v up_o into_o so_o that_o hereby_o it_o appear_v plain_o that_o religion_n in_o the_o power_n of_o it_o will_v heal_v these_o feverish_a distemper_n also_o and_o so_o restore_v a_o most_o excellent_a constitution_n both_o personal_a and_o political_a it_o may_v seem_v possible_o that_o i_o have_v toil_v too_o much_o in_o these_o discovery_n and_o happy_o my_o pain_n may_v prove_v ungrateful_a to_o many_o but_o may_v it_o please_v almighty_a god_n that_o they_o may_v prove_v vindicative_a of_o religion_n restaurative_a of_o the_o sickly_a and_o lapse_v ecclesiastical_a or_o political_a state_n yea_o or_o medicinal_a and_o profitable_a to_o any_o single_a soul_n of_o man_n i_o shall_v venture_v to_o estimate_v it_o against_o a_o age_n of_o pain_n and_o if_o it_o shall_v prove_v that_o by_o all_o this_o toil_n i_o have_v catch_v nothing_o as_o the_o 5._o luk._n 5._o 5._o weary_a disciple_n complain_v of_o old_a nevertheless_o be_v well_o assure_v that_o i_o have_v a_o word_n of_o god_n for_o my_o encouragement_n i_o will_v let_v down_o the_o net_n once_o again_o and_o so_o finish_v these_o epistolary_a pain_n with_o a_o earnest_a hortatory_n address_v to_o all_o that_o shall_v peruse_v they_o let_v nothing_o satisfy_v your_o soul_n christian_n let_v nothing_o administer_v rest_n or_o settlement_n to_o your_o heart_n that_o be_v common_a to_o the_o natural_a man_n or_o compatible_a to_o the_o mere_a animal_n life_n there_o be_v a_o great_a many_o high_a strain_n of_o zeal_n and_o seem_a devotion_n by_o which_o many_o man_n judge_v themselves_o to_o be_v some_o great_a one_o and_o concern_v which_o they_o be_v ready_a to_o say_v these_o thing_n be_v the_o great_a power_n of_o god_n which_o if_o they_o be_v well_o rifle_v into_o will_v be_v find_v to_o grow_v upon_o no_o better_a root_n than_o natural_a self_n and_o to_o spring_v from_o no_o high_a principle_n than_o this_o animal_n life_n it_o be_v impossible_a for_o i_o to_o give_v a_o exact_a catalogue_n of_o all_o these_o many_o of_o they_o i_o have_v occasional_o record_v in_o the_o latter_a end_n of_o this_o ensue_a treatise_n to_o which_o yet_o many_o more_o may_v be_v add_v if_o i_o have_v a_o fair_a opportunity_n but_o at_o present_a let_v i_o in_o general_n commend_v to_o you_o this_o description_n make_v by_o our_o saviour_n of_o true_a religion_n as_o the_o rule_n whereby_o i_o do_v earnest_o entreat_v you_o faithful_o to_o examine_v yourselves_o your_o action_n affection_n zeal_n confidence_n profession_n performance_n let_v i_o speak_v free_o all_o pomp_n of_o worship_n all_o speculative_a knowledge_n though_o never_o so_o orthodox_n be_v as_o dear_a to_o the_o animal_n life_n as_o the_o divine_a and_o all_o external_a model_n of_o devotion_n submiss_a confession_n devout_a hymn_n pathetical_a prayer_n rapture_n of_o joy_n much_o zeal_n to_o reform_v indecency_n in_o worship_n or_o superstition_n a_o fierce_a rage_a against_o the_o political_a antichrist_n do_v as_o well_o agree_v to_o a_o natural_a man_n as_o a_o spiritual_a and_o may_v be_v as_o fair_o act_v over_o to_o see_v to_o by_o a_o mere_a selfish_a carnal_a principle_n as_o by_o that_o which_o be_v true_o divine_a when_o diogenes_n
be_v in_o he_o a_o well_o of_o water_n spring_v up_o into_o everlasting_a life_n this_o chapter_n contain_v a_o excellent_a profitable_a familiar_a discourse_n of_o the_o bless_a saviour_n of_o the_o world_n into_o who_o lip_n grace_n be_v pour_v psal_n 45._o 2._o and_o he_o cease_v not_o to_o pour_v it_o out_o again_o that_o which_o be_v say_v of_o the_o wise_a prov._n 15._o 7._o be_v full_o verify_v of_o wisdom_n itself_o his_o lip_n disperse_v knowledge_n a_o poor_a woman_n of_o samaria_n come_v to_o draw_v water_n and_o our_o saviour_n take_v occasion_n from_o the_o water_n to_o instruct_v she_o in_o the_o great_a and_o excellent_a doctrine_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n oh_o the_o admirable_a zeal_n for_o god_n and_o compassion_n for_o sonl_n which_o dwell_v in_o that_o divine_a breast_n and_o oh_o the_o wonderful_a unsearchable_a counsel_n of_o a_o alwise_a god_n he_o ordain_v saul_n seek_v of_o ass_n to_o be_v the_o mean_n of_o his_o find_v a_o kingdom_n upon_o earth_n and_o this_o poor_a woman_n seek_v of_o water_n to_o be_v a_o occasion_n of_o she_o find_v the_o way_n to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n she_o come_v to_o the_o well_o of_o jaceb_n and_o behold_v she_o meet_v with_o the_o god_n of_o jacob_n there_o the_o occasion_n passage_n and_o issue_n of_o this_o discourse_n will_v each_o afford_v many_o good_a and_o profitable_a observation_n but_o i_o think_v none_o more_o than_o this_o verse_n that_o i_o have_v pitch_v upon_o in_o which_o the_o mystery_n of_o gospel-grace_n be_v rare_o unfold_v and_o true_a christian_a religion_n be_v excellent_o describe_v for_o so_o i_o understand_v our_o saviour_n not_o as_o speak_v of_o faith_n or_o knowledge_n or_o any_o other_o particular_a grace_n but_o of_o grace_n in_o general_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o god_n that_o be_v the_o gift_n and_o grace_n of_o it_o of_o true_a godliness_n or_o if_o you_o will_v of_o christian_a religion_n for_o that_o word_n i_o shall_v choose_v to_o retain_v throughout_o my_o discourse_n as_o be_v most_o intelligible_a and_o comprehensive_a in_o which_o word_n we_o find_v true_a christian_a religion_n unfold_v in_o the_o original_n nature_n property_n consequent_a and_o end_n of_o it_o the_o original_n of_o it_o be_v find_v in_o those_o word_n i_o shall_v give_v he_o the_o nature_n of_o it_o be_v describe_v by_o a_o will_n of_o water_n the_o property_n of_o it_o will_v be_v find_v in_o the_o phrase_n of_o spring_v up_o the_o consequent_a of_o it_o that_o the_o man_n that_o be_v endue_v with_o it_o shall_v never_o thirst_v the_o end_n or_o perfection_n of_o it_o be_v everlasting_a life_n of_o all_o these_o by_o god_n assistance_n in_o this_o order_n first_o i_o begin_v with_o the_o original_a of_o it_o as_o it_o seem_v meet_v i_o shall_v for_o indeed_o it_o be_v first_o find_v in_o the_o word_n the_o water_n that_o i_o shall_v give_v he_o and_o here_o the_o proposition_n that_o i_o shall_v go_v upon_o must_v be_v that_o true_a christion_n religion_n be_v of_o a_o divine_a original_a all_o soul_n be_v indeed_o the_o offspring_n of_o god_n those_o noble_a faculty_n o●_n understanding_n and_o a_o will_v free_v from_o constraint_n do_v more_o resemble_v the_o nature_n of_o god_n than_o all_o the_o world_n beside_o there_o be_v more_o of_o the_o glory_n beauty_n and_o brightness_n of_o god_n in_o a_o soul_n than_o there_o be_v in_o the_o sun_n itself_o the_o apostle_n allow_v it_o as_o a_o proper_a speech_n speak_v in_o common_a of_o all_o man_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d act_n 17._o 28._o god_n have_v derive_v more_o lively_a print_n of_o himself_o and_o his_o divine_a essence_n upon_o a_o rational_a soul_n than_o he_o have_v upon_o the_o whole_a creation_n so_o that_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n even_o as_o to_o its_o constitution_n do_v declare_v and_o discover_v more_o of_o the_o rature_n of_o god_n than_o all_o the_o other_o thing_n that_o he_o have_v make_v whereof_o the_o apostle_n speak_v rom._n 1._o 20._o he_o that_o right_o converse_v with_o his_o own_o soul_n w●ll_n get_v more_o acquaintarce_o with_o god_n than_o they_o that_o gaze_v con●●ually_o upon_o the_o material_a heaven_n or_o traverse_v the_o dark_a and_o u●most_a corner_n of_o the_o earth_n or_o go_v down_o unto_o the_o sea_n in_o ship_n the_o serious_a consideration_n of_o the_o little_a world_n will_v teach_v more_o of_o he_o than_o the_o great_a one_o can_v do_v so_o that_o i_o doubt_v not_o to_o take_v the_o apostle_n word_n concern_v the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o apply_v they_o to_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n rom._n 10._o say_v not_o in_o thy_o heart_n who_o shall_v ascend_v into_o heaven_n to_o bring_v a_o discovery_n of_o god_n from_o thence_o or_o who_o shall_v descend_v into_o the_o deep_a to_o fetch_v it_o up_o from_o thence_o the_o nature_n and_o essence_n of_o god_n be_v nigh_o thou_o even_o in_o thy_o own_o soul_n excellent_o display_v in_o the_o constitution_n and_o frame_n power_n and_o faculty_n thereof_o god_n have_v not_o make_v any_o creature_n so_o capable_a of_o receive_v and_o ●●flecting_v his_o image_n and_o glory_n as_o angel_n and_o man_n which_o have_v make_v i_o often_o to_o say_v that_o the_o vile_a soul_n of_o man_n be_v much_o more_o beautiful_a and_o honourable_a than_o the_o most_o excellent_a body_n than_o the_o very_a body_n of_o the_o sun_n at_o noon_n day_n and_o by_o the_o way_n this_o may_v render_v s●n_o odious_a and_o loa●h_a some_o because_o it_o have_v defile_v the_o fair_a piece_n of_o god_n workmanship_n in_o the_o world_n and_o blur●ed_v the_o clear_a copy_n which_o he_o have_v draw_v of_o himself_o in_o the_o whole_a creation_n but_o though_o all_o rational_a soul_n be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n yet_o all_o of_o they_o do_v not_o imitate_v their_o father_n though_o their_o constitution_n do_v express_v much_o of_o the_o essence_n of_o god_n yet_o their_o disposition_n do_v express_v the_o image_n of_o the_o devil_n but_o godly_a soul_n who_o be_v follower_n of_o god_n be_v indeed_o his_o dear_a child_n ephes_n 5._o 1._o holy_a soul_n who_o be_v endue_v with_o a_o divine_a and_o god_n like_o disposition_n and_o do_v work_v the_o work●_n of_o god_n these_o be_v most_o true_o and_o proper_o his_o off_o spring_n mat._n 5._o 44_o 45._o and_o in_o this_o respect_n god_n child_n be_v his_o workmanship_n create_v unto_o good_a work_n ephes_n 2._o 10._o religion_n be_v of_o a_o divine_a original_a god_n be_v the_o author_n and_o father_n of_o it_o both_o from_o without_o and_o from_o within_o 1._o god_n be_v the_o author_n of_o it_o from_o without_o when_o man_n have_v sallen_v from_o god_n by_o sin_n and_o so_o have_v lose_v his_o way_n and_o be_v become_v both_o unwilling_a and_o unable_a to_o return_v god_n be_v please_v to_o set_v up_o that_o glorious_a light_n his_o own_o son_n the_o sun_n of_o righteousness_n in_o the_o world_n that_o he_o may_v guide_v their_o foot_n into_o the_o way_n of_o peace_n who_o be_v therefore_o call_v a_o light_a to_o lighten_v the_o gentile_n luk._n 2._o 32._o and_o compare_v to_o a_o candle_n set_v upon_o a_o candlestick_n mark_v 4._o 21._o god_n of_o his_o infinite_a free_a grace_n and_o overflow_a goodness_n provide_v a_o mediator_n in_o and_o by_o who_o these_o apostate_n soul_n may_v be_v reconcile_v and_o reunite_v to_o himself_o and_o to_o as_o many_o as_o receive_v he_o to_o they_o he_o give_v power_n to_o become_v the_o son_n of_o god_n john_n 1._o 12._o yet_o further_o it_o please_v god_n in_o his_o infinite_a wisdom_n and_o mercy_n to_o chalk_v out_o the_o way_n of_o life_n and_o peace_n in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n and_o therein_o to_o unlock_v the_o secret_n of_o salvation_n to_o succeed_a generation_n herein_o he_o have_v plain_o lay_v down_o the_o term_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o peace_n which_o be_v make_v in_o the_o mediator_n and_o give_v precept_n and_o promise_n for_o the_o direction_n and_o encouragement_n of_o as_o many_o as_o will_v inquire_v into_o the_o same_o these_o be_v the_o sacred_a oracle_n which_o give_v clear_a and_o certain_a answer_n to_o all_o that_o do_v consult_v they_o about_o their_o future_a state_n rom._n 3._o 2._o christ_n jesus_n open_v the_o way_n into_o the_o holy_a of_o all_o and_o the_o scripture_n they_o come_v after_o and_o point_v it_o out_o unto_o we_o he_o purchase_v life_n and_o immortality_n and_o these_o bring_v it_o to_o light_n 2_o tim._n 1._o 10._o and_o yet_o further_o that_o these_o may_v not_o be_v mistake_v or_o pervert_v to_o man_n destruction_n which_o be_v ordain_v for_o their_o salvation_n which_o sometime_o do_v come_v to_o pass_v 2_o pet._n 3._o 16._o god_n have_v be_v please_v to_o commit_v these_o record_n into_o the_o hand_n of_o his_o church_n and_o therein_o to_o his_o minister_n who_o
he_o have_v appoint_v call_v qualify_v instruct_v for_o the_o open_n explain_v interpret_n &_o apply_v of_o they_o so_o that_o they_o be_v call_v scribe_n instruct_v unto_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o steward_n of_o the_o mystery_n steward_n over_o the_o household_n of_o god_n to_o give_v unto_o every_o one_o his_o portion_n these_o apostle_n prophet_n evangelist_n pastor_n teacher_n god_n have_v give_v for_o the_o perfect_a of_o the_o saint_n for_o the_o edify_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n ephes_n 4._o 11_o 12._o these_o thing_n have_v god_n do_v for_o we_o from_o without_o we_o he_o have_v set_v up_o a_o light_n chalk_v out_o our_o way_n and_o appoint_v we_o guide_n to_o which_o i_o may_v add_v the_o many_o enticement_n and_o motive_n which_o we_o call_v mercy_n or_o comfort_n of_o this_o life_n and_o the_o many_o aff●ightments_n of_o judgement_n and_o affliction_n which_o god_n have_v add_v to_o the_o promise_n &_o threaten_n of_o his_o word_n to_o bring_v we_o into_o the_o way_n of_o life_n but_o all_o these_o be_v too_o little_a too_o weak_a of_o themselves_o to_o bring_v back_o a_o straggle_a soul_n or_o to_o produce_v a_o live_a principle_n of_o true_a religion_n in_o it_o therefore_o 2._o god_n be_v the_o author_n of_o religion_n from_o within_o he_o do_v not_o only_o reveal_v himself_o and_o his_o son_n to_o the_o soul_n but_o in_o it_o he_o do_v not_o only_o make_v discovery_n ●o_o it_o but_o l●vely_a impression_n upon_o it_o he_o do_v not_o only_o appoint_v and_o point_n out_o the_o way_n of_o life_n but_o breathe_v in_o the_o breath_n of_o life_n he_o have_v not_o only_o provide_v a_o saviour_n a_o redeemer_n but_o he_o also_o draw_v the_o soul_n unto_o he_o john_n 6._o 44._o he_o have_v not_o only_o appoint_v pastor_n and_o teacher_n but_o he_o himself_o impregnate_v their_o word_n and_o clothes_n their_o doctrine_n with_o his_o own_o power_n use_v their_o ministry_n as_o a_o instrument_n whereby_o to_o teach_v so_o that_o the_o child_n of_o 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than_o this_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d participation_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n conformity_n to_o the_o divine_a image_n examine_v what_o alliance_n your_o soul_n have_v to_o god_n who_o be_v the_o image_n and_o superscription_n religion_n be_v a_o divine_a accomplishment_n a_o efflux_n from_o god_n and_o may_v by_o its_o affinity_n to_o heaven_n be_v discern_v from_o a_o brat_n of_o hell_n and_o darkness_n therefore_o christian_n if_o you_o will_v make_v a_o judgement_n of_o your_o state_n lay_v your_o heart_n and_o life_n to_o the_o rule_n the_o eternal_a goodness_n the_o uncreated_a purity_n and_o holiness_n and_o see_v whether_o you_o resemble_v that_o copy_n for_o conformity_n to_o the_o image_n and_o will_n of_o god_n that_o be_v religion_n and_o that_o god_n will_v own_v for_o he_o when_o all_o the_o counterfeit_n and_o shadow_n of_o it_o shall_v fly_v away_o and_z disappear_z for_o ever_o i_o fear_v it_o may_v be_v impute_v as_o a_o great_a piece_n of_o vanity_n and_o idle_a curic●ty_n to_o many_o 〈◊〉_d speculative_a christian_n that_o they_o be_v very_o inquisitive_a pry_v into_o the_o hide_a ro●●s_n of_o god_n decree_n the_o secret_n of_o predestination_n to_o find_v out_o the_o cause_n and_o method_n of_o their_o vocation_n and_o salvation_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n they_o be_v not_o solicitous_a for_o nor_o studious_a of_o the_o relation_n and_o resemblance_n that_o every_o religious_a soul_n bear_v unto_o god_n himself_o the_o heaven_n that_o be_v open_v within_o the_o godly_a soul_n itself_o and_o the_o whole_a plot_n and_o mystery_n of_o salvationsalvation_n translate_v upon_o the_o heart_n of_o a_o true_a christian_a there_o be_v
a_o vanity_n which_o i_o have_v observe_v in_o many_o pretender_n to_o nobility_n and_o learning_n when_o man_n seek_v to_o demonstrate_v the_o one_o by_o their_o coat_n of_o arm_n and_o the_o record_n of_o their_o family_n and_o the_o other_o by_o a_o gown_n or_o a_o title_n or_o their_o name_n stand_v in_o the_o register_n of_o the_o university_n rather_o than_o by_o the_o accomplishment_n and_o behaviour_n of_o gentleman_n or_o scholar_n a_o like_a vanity_n i_o doubt_v may_v be_v observe_v in_o many_o pretender_n to_o religion_n some_o be_v search_v god_n decretal_n to_o find_v their_o name_n write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n when_o they_o shall_v be_v study_v to_o find_v god_n name_n write_v upon_o their_o heart_n holiness_n to_o the_o lord_n engrave_v upon_o their_o soul_n some_o be_v busy_a examine_v themselves_o by_o note_n and_o mark_n without_o they_o when_o they_o shall_v labour_v to_o find_v the_o mark_n and_o print_n of_o god_n and_o his_o nature_n upon_o they_o some_o have_v their_o religion_n in_o their_o book_n and_o author_n which_o shall_v be_v the_o law_n of_o god_n unwritten_a in_o the_o table_n of_o the_o heart_n some_o glory_n in_o the_o bulk_n of_o their_o duty_n and_o in_o the_o multitude_n of_o their_o pompous_a performance_n and_o religious_a achievement_n cry_v with_o jehu_n come_v see_v here_o my_o zeal_n for_o the_o lord_n whereas_o it_o be_v much_o more_o excellent_a if_o one_o can_v see_v their_o likeness_n to_o the_o lord_n and_o the_o character_n of_o divine_a beauty_n and_o holiness_n draw_v upon_o their_o heart_n and_o life_n but_o we_o if_o we_o will_v judge_v right_o of_o our_o religious_a state_n must_v view_v ourselves_o in_o god_n who_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o all_o goodness_n and_o holiness_n and_o the_o rule_n of_o all_o perfection_n value_v yourselves_o by_o your_o soul_n and_o not_o by_o your_o body_n estate_n friend_n or_o any_o outward_a accomplishment_n as_o most_o man_n do_v but_o that_o be_v not_o enough_o if_o man_n rest_v there_o they_o may_v make_v a_o idol_n of_o the_o fair_a of_o god_n creature_n even_o their_o own_o soul_n therefore_o value_v your_o soul_n themselves_o by_o what_o they_o have_v of_o god_n in_o they_o to_o study_v the_o bless_a and_o glorious_a god_n in_o his_o word_n and_o to_o converse_v with_o he_o in_o his_o work_n be_v indeed_o a_o excellent_a and_o honourable_a employment_n but_o oh_o what_o a_o bless_a study_n be_v it_o to_o view_v he_o in_o the_o communication_n of_o himself_o and_o the_o impression_n of_o his_o grace_n upon_o our_o own_o soul_n all_o the_o thin_a and_o subtle_a speculation_n which_o the_o most_o raise_a philosopher_n have_v of_o the_o essence_n and_o nature_n of_o god_n be_v a_o poor_a and_o low_a and_o beggarly_a employment_n and_o attainment_n in_o comparison_n of_o those_o bless_a vision_n of_o god_n which_o a_o godly_a soul_n have_v in_o itself_o when_o it_o find_v itself_o partaker_n of_o a_o divine_a nature_n and_o live_v a_o divine_a life_n oh_o labour_n to_o view_n god_n and_o his_o divine_a perfection_n in_o your_o own_o soul_n in_o those_o copy_n and_o transcript_n of_o they_o which_o his_o holy_a spirit_n draw_v upon_o the_o heart_n of_o all_o godly_a man_n this_o be_v the_o most_o excellent_a discovery_n of_o god_n that_o any_o soul_n be_v capable_a of_o it_o be_v better_a and_o more_o desirable_a than_o that_o famous_a discovery_n that_o be_v make_v to_o moses_n in_o the_o cleft_n of_o the_o rock_n exod._n 34._o nay_o i_o shall_v much_o either_o desire_n to_o see_v the_o real_a impression_n of_o a_o godlike_a nature_n upon_o my_o own_o soul_n to_o see_v the_o crucify_a of_o my_o own_o pride_n and_o self-will_n the_o mortify_n of_o the_o more_o sensual_a life_n and_o a_o divine_a life_n spring_v up_o in_o my_o soul_n instead_o of_o it_o i_o will_v much_o rather_o desire_v to_o see_v my_o soul_n glorify_v in_o the_o image_n and_o beauty_n of_o god_n put_v upon_o it_o which_o be_v indeed_o a_o pledge_n yea_o and_o a_o part_n of_o eternal_a glory_n than_o to_o have_v a_o vision_n from_o the_o almighty_a or_o hear_v a_o voice_n witness_v from_o heaven_n and_o say_v thou_o be_v my_o belove_a son_n in_o who_o my_o soul_n be_v well_o please_v this_o that_o i_o be_o speak_v of_o be_v a_o true_a foundation_n of_o heaven_n itself_o in_o the_o soul_n a_o real_a beginning_n of_o happiness_n for_o happiness_n heaven_n itself_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o perfect_a conformity_n a_o cheerful_a and_o eternal_a compliance_n of_o all_o the_o power_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o the_o will_n of_o god_n so_o that_o as_o far_o as_o a_o godly_a soul_n be_v thus_o conform_v to_o god_n and_o fill_v with_o his_o fullness_n so_o far_o be_v he_o glorify_v upon_o earth_n sed_fw-la heu_fw-la quantum_fw-la distamus_fw-la ab_fw-la illo_fw-la 2._o let_v wisdom_n then_o be_v justify_v of_o her_o child_n let_v the_o child_n of_o god_n those_o that_o be_v his_o genuine_a offspring_n rise_v up_o and_o call_v he_o bless_v in_o imitation_n of_o their_o lord_n and_o saviour_n that_o elder_a son_n of_o god_n that_o first_o bear_v among_o many_o brethren_n who_o rejoice_v in_o spirit_n and_o say_v i_o thank_v thou_o father_n lord_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n that_o thou_o have_v reveal_v these_o thing_n luk._n 10._o 21._o or_o according_a to_o the_o style_n of_o the_o apostle_n peter_n 1_o pet._n 1._o 3_o bless_a be_v the_o god_n and_o father_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n who_o according_a to_o his_o abundant_a mercy_n have_v beget_v we_o again_o there_o be_v no_o great_a contradiction_n in_o the_o world_n than_o a_o man_n pretend_v religion_n and_o yet_o ascribe_v it_o to_o himself_o whereas_o pure_a religion_n be_v pure_o of_o a_o divine_a original_a beside_o religion_n do_v principal_o consist_v in_o the_o subdue_a of_o self-will_n in_o conformity_n to_o and_o compliance_n with_o the_o divine_a will_n in_o serve_v the_o interest_n of_o god_n glory_n in_o the_o world_n then_o and_o not_o till_o then_o may_v a_o soul_n be_v true_o call_v religious_a when_o god_n become_v great_a of_o all_o to_o it_o and_o in_o it_o and_o the_o interest_n of_o god_n be_v so_o powerful_o plant_v in_o it_o that_o no_o other_o interest_n no_o self-interest_n no_o creature-love_n no_o particular_a private_a end_n can_v grow_v by_o it_o no_o more_o than_o the_o magician_n can_v stand_v before_o moses_n when_o he_o come_v in_o the_o power_n of_o god_n to_o work_v wonder_n so_o that_o solomon_n say_v of_o self-seeking_a prov._n 25._o 27._o for_o man_n to_o seek_v their_o own_o glory_n be_v not_o glory_n the_o like_a i_o may_v safe_o say_v upon_o that_o double_a ground_n that_o i_o have_v lay_v down_o self-religion_n be_v not_o religion_n how_o vain_o and_o mad_o do_v man_n dream_v of_o their_o self_n religion_n carry_v they_o to_o heaven_n when_o heaven_n itself_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o the_o perfection_n of_o self-denial_n and_o god_n become_v all_o thing_n to_o the_o saint_n 1_o cor._n 15._o 28._o instead_o of_o advance_v man_n towards_o heaven_n there_o be_v nothing_o in_o the_o world_n that_o do_v more_o direct_o make_v war_n against_o heaven_n than_o that_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d as_o siracides_n call_v it_o that_o proud_a and_o petulant_a spirit_n of_o self-will_n that_o rule_v in_o the_o child_n of_o disobedience_n so_o that_o when_o the_o holy-ghost_n will_v describe_v david_n one_o of_o the_o best_a man_n to_o the_o best_a advantage_n he_o describe_v he_o with_o opposition_n to_o self_n and_o self-will_n 1_o sam._n 13._o 14._o a_o man_n after_o god_n own_o heart_n and_o again_o act_v 13._o 36._o he_o serve_v the_o will_n of_o god_n in_o his_o generation_n there_o have_v be_v of_o old_a a_o great_a number_n of_o philosophical_a man_n who_o be_v raise_v up_o above_o the_o speculation_n of_o their_o own_o soul_n which_o be_v the_o logical_a life_n unto_o a_o contemplation_n of_o a_o deity_n and_o be_v purge_v by_o a_o low_a kind_n of_o virtue_n and_o moral_a goodness_n from_o the_o pollution_n that_o be_v in_o this_o world_n through_o lust_n do_v yet_o ultimate_o settle_v into_o themselves_o and_o their_o own_o self-love_n they_o be_v full_a indeed_o but_o it_o be_v not_o with_o the_o fullness_n of_o god_n as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v but_o with_o a_o selfsufficiency_n the_o leaven_n of_o self-love_n lie_v at_o the_o bottom_n do_v make_v they_o swell_v with_o pride_n and_o self-conceit_n now_o these_o man_n though_o they_o be_v free_a from_o gross_a external_a enormity_n yet_o do_v not_o attain_v to_o a_o true_a knowledge_n of_o god_n nor_o any_o true_a religion_n because_o they_o do_v set_v up_o themselves_o to_o be_v their_o own_o idol_n and_o carry_v such_o a_o image_n of_o themselves_o continual_o before_o their_o eye_n that_o they_o have_v no_o
man_n till_o he_o consider_v with_o himself_o that_o one_o part_n of_o these_o man_n uncleanness_n be_v that_o very_a blindness_n which_o keep_v they_o from_o discern_v it_o i_o speak_v principal_o of_o the_o defilement_n of_o the_o soul_n though_o indeed_o the_o same_o do_v pollute_v the_o whole_a conversation_n every_o action_n spring_v from_o such_o a_o unclean_a heart_n thereby_o become_v filthy_a even_o as_o moses_n his_o hand_n put_v into_o his_o bosom_n become_v leprous_a exod._n 4._o or_o rather_o as_o one_o that_o be_v unclean_a by_o a_o dead_a body_n defile_v all_o that_o he_o touch_v hag._n 2._o 13._o now_o religion_n be_v the_o cleanse_n of_o this_o unclean_a spirit_n and_o conversation_n so_o that_o though_o the_o soul_n be_v former_o as_o filthy_a &_o odious_a as_o augeus_n his_o stable_a when_o once_o those_o live_a water_n flow_v into_o it_o and_o through_o it_o from_o the_o pure_a fountain_n of_o grace_n and_o holiness_n the_o spirit_n of_o our_o god_n one_o may_v say_v of_o it_o as_o the_o apostle_n of_o his_o corinthian_n 1_o cor._n 6._o 11._o such_o be_v some_o of_o you_o but_o you_o be_v wash_v but_o you_o be_v sanctify_v etc._n etc._n the_o soul_n that_o before_o be_v white_a as_o leprosy_n be_v now_o white_a as_o wool_n isa_n 1._o 18._o the_o soul_n that_o before_o be_v like_o moses_n his_o hand_n leprous_a as_o snow_n be_v now_o like_o david_n heart_n white_a as_o snow_n yea_o and_o white_a too_o psal_n 51._o 7._o oh_o what_o a_o beauty_n and_o glory_n be_v upon_o that_o godly_a soul_n that_o shine_v with_o the_o image_n and_o brightness_n of_o god_n upon_o it_o solomon_n in_o all_o his_o glory_n be_v not_o beautiful_a like_o such_o a_o soul_n nay_o i_o dare_v say_v the_o splendour_n of_o the_o sun_n in_o its_o great_a strength_n and_o altitude_n be_v a_o miserable_a glimmer_n if_o it_o be_v compare_v with_o the_o daystar_n of_o religion_n that_o even_o in_o this_o life_n arise_v in_o the_o heart_n or_o if_o you_o will_v in_o the_o prophet_n stile_n the_o sun_n of_o righteousness_n which_o arise_v with_o heal_v in_o his_o wing_n upon_o they_o that_o fear_v the_o name_n of_o god_n to_o speak_v without_o a_o metaphor_n the_o godly_a soul_n have_v entertain_v into_o its_o self_n the_o pure_a efflux_n of_o divine_a light_n and_o love_n breathe_v after_o nothing_o more_o than_o to_o see_v more_o familiar_o and_o love_v more_o ardent_o its_o inclination_n be_v pure_a and_o holy_a its_o motion_n spiritual_a and_o powerful_a its_o delight_n high_a and_o heavenly_a it_o may_v be_v say_v to_o rest_v in_o its_o love_n and_o yet_o it_o may_v be_v say_v that_o love_n will_v not_o suffer_v it_o to_o rest_n but_o be_v still_o carry_v it_o out_o into_o a_o more_o intimate_a union_n with_o its_o belove_a object_n what_o be_v say_v of_o the_o ointment_n of_o christ_n name_n cant._n 1._o 3._o be_v true_a of_o the_o water_n of_o his_o spirit_n it_o be_v pour_v forth_o therefore_o do_v the_o virgin_n love_v he_o religion_n beget_v a_o chaste_a and_o virgin-love_n in_o the_o soul_n towards_o that_o bless_a god_n that_o beget_v it_o it_o bathe_v itself_o in_o the_o fountain_n that_o produce_v it_o and_o sun_n itself_o perpetual_o in_o the_o warm_a beam_n that_o first_o hatch_v it_o religion_n issue_v from_o god_n himself_o and_o be_v ever_o issue_v out_o towards_o god_n alone_o passionate_o breathe_v with_o the_o holy_a psalmist_n who_o have_v i_o in_o heaven_n but_o thou_o in_o earth_n there_o be_v none_o that_o i_o desire_v beside_o thou_o the_o soul_n that_o former_o may_v be_v say_v to_o have_v lie_v among_o the_o pot_n by_o reason_n of_o its_o filthiness_n be_v now_o as_o the_o wing_n of_o a_o dove_n cover_v with_o silver_n and_o her_o feather_n with_o yellow_a gold_n the_o soul_n that_o former_o may_v be_v say_v to_o have_v sit_v down_o by_o the_o flesh_n pot_n of_o egypt_n in_o regard_n of_o its_o sensual_a and_o earthly_a love_n be_v redeem_v by_o the_o almighty_a grace_n of_o god_n be_v upon_o its_o way_n to_o the_o holy_a land_n hasten_v to_o a_o country_n not_o earthly_a but_o heavenly_a heb._n 11._o this_o pure_a principle_n be_v put_v into_o the_o soul_n put_v it_o upon_o holy_a study_n indite_n holy_a meditation_n direct_v it_o to_o high_a and_o noble_a end_n and_o make_v all_o its_o embrace_n to_o be_v pure_a and_o chaste_a labour_v to_o compass_n god_n himself_o which_o before_o be_v adulterous_a &_o idolatrous_a free_a for_o sin_n and_o self_n and_o the_o world_n to_o lodge_v and_o lie_v down_o in_o in_o a_o word_n this_o offspring_n of_o heaven_n this_o king_n daughter_n the_o godly_a soul_n be_v all_o glorious_a within_o yea_o and_o outward_o too_o she_o be_v clothe_v with_o wrought_a gold_n psal_n 45._o 13._o her_o faith_n within_o be_v more_o precious_a than_o gold_n 1_o pet._n 1._o 7._o and_o her_o conversation_n curious_o make_v up_o of_o a_o embroidery_n of_o good_a work_n some_o of_o p●ety_n some_o of_o charity_n some_o of_o sobriety_n but_o all_o of_o purity_n shine_v with_o more_o noble_a and_o excellent_a splendour_n than_o the_o high_a priest_n garment_n and_o breastplate_n spangle_v with_o such_o variety_n of_o precious_a stone_n this_o precious_a ointment_n this_o holy_a unction_n as_o the_o apostle_n call_v it_o 1_o john_n 2._o 20._o be_v as_o diffusive_a of_o itself_o and_o ten_o thousand_o time_n more_o fragrant_a than_o that_o of_o aaron_n so_o much_o commend_v in_o psal_n 133._o that_o run_v down_o from_o his_o head_n upon_o his_o beard_n and_o from_o thence_o upon_o the_o skirt_n of_o his_o garment_n not_o my_o foot_n only_o but_o my_o hand_n and_o my_o head_n lord_n say_v peter_n john_n 13._o not_o well_o know_v what_o he_o say_v but_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v true_o sensible_a of_o the_o excellent_a purity_n which_o be_v cause_v by_o divine_a wash_n belong_v to_o have_v the_o whole_a man_n the_o whole_a life_n also_o make_v partaker_n of_o it_o and_o cry_n lord_z not_o my_o head_n only_o not_o my_o heart_n only_o but_o my_o hand_n and_o my_o foot_n also_o make_v i_o whole_o pure_a as_o god_n be_v pure_a in_o a_o word_n then_o true_a religion_n be_v the_o cleanse_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o all_o the_o power_n of_o it_o so_o that_o whereas_o murderer_n sometime_o lodge_v in_o it_o now_o righteousness_n the_o den_n of_o thief_n thievish_a lust_n and_o love_n and_o interest_n and_o end_n which_o former_o steal_v away_o the_o soul_n from_o god_n its_o right_a owner_n be_v now_o become_v a_o temple_n fit_a for_o the_o great_a king_n to_o dwell_v and_o live_v and_o reign_v in_o and_o the_o whole_a conversation_n be_v turn_v from_o its_o wont_a vanity_n worldliness_n and_o iniquity_n and_o be_v continual_o employ_v about_o thing_n that_o be_v true_a honest_a just_a pure_a lovely_a and_o of_o good_a report_n phil._n 4._o 8._o 2._o by_o the_o phrase_n water_n the_o quench_v nature_n of_o religion_n be_v commend_v to_o we_o god_n have_v endue_v the_o immortal_a soul_n with_o a_o restless_a appetite_n and_o rage_a thirst_n after_o some_o chief_a good_a which_o the_o heart_n of_o every_o man_n be_v continual_o grope_v after_o and_o catch_v at_o though_o indeed_o few_o find_v it_o because_o they_o seek_v it_o where_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v find_v if_o we_o speak_v proper_o it_o be_v not_o gold_n or_o silver_n or_o popular_a applause_n which_o the_o covetous_a or_o ambitious_a mind_n do_v ultimate_o aim_v at_o but_o some_o chief_a good_a happiness_n sufficiency_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o these_o thing_n wherein_o they_o be_v more_o guilty_a of_o blasphemy_n than_o atheism_n for_o it_o be_v clear_a that_o they_o do_v not_o deny_v a_o supreme_a good_a for_o that_o which_o man_n do_v chief_o and_o ultimate_o aim_v at_o be_v their_o god_n be_v it_o what_o it_o will_v but_o they_o do_v very_o blaspheme_v the_o true_a god_n when_o they_o place_v their_o happiness_n there_o where_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v find_v and_o attribute_v that_o fullness_n and_o sufficiency_n to_o something_o else_o beside_o the_o live_a god_n sin_n have_v not_o destroy_v the_o nature_n and_o capacity_n of_o the_o rational_a soul_n but_o have_v divert_v the_o mind_n from_o its_o adequate_a object_n and_o have_v sink_v it_o into_o the_o creature_n where_o it_o wander_v hither_o and_o thither_o like_o a_o banish_a man_n from_o one_o den_n and_o cave_n to_o another_o but_o be_v secure_v no_o where_o a_o wicked_a man_n who_o be_v loose_v from_o his_o centre_n by_o sin_n and_o depart_v from_o the_o fountain_n of_o his_o life_n fly_v low_a in_o his_o affection_n and_o flutter_v perpetual_o about_o the_o earth_n and_o earthly_a object_n but_o can_v find_v no_o more_o rest_n for_o the_o foot_n of_o his_o soul_n than_o noah_n dove_n can_v find_v for_o the_o sole_a of_o her_o foot_n now_o religion_n
posterity_n though_o man_n have_v something_o without_o they_o to_o guide_v they_o in_o the_o way_n of_o life_n yet_o it_o be_v some_o live_a principle_n within_o they_o that_o do_v denominate_v they_o living_n men._n the_o scripture_n will_v abundant_o inform_v you_o which_o be_v the_o true_a circumcision_n col._n 2._o 11._o the_o true_a sacrifice_n to_o god_n psal_n 51._o 17._o and_o ind●●●●he_a law_n itself_o be_v not_o so_o much_o to_o ●●●●sidered_v as_o it_o be_v engrave_v in_o table_n of_o stone_n as_o be_v write_v in_o the_o heart_n jer._n 31._o 33._o the_o jew_n need_v not_o have_v take_v up_o their_o rest_n in_o the_o law_n consider_v as_o a_o outward_a rule_n or_o precept_n for_o they_o know_v or_o may_v have_v know_v that_o god_n require_v truth_n in_o the_o inward_a part_n as_o one_o of_o themselves_o a_o prophet_n and_o king_n of_o their_o own_o acknowledge_v psal_n 51._o 6._o but_o i_o doubt_v many_o christian_n be_v also_o sick_a of_o the_o same_o disease_n whilst_o they_o view_v the_o gospel_n as_o a_o history_n and_o a_o external_a dispensation_n whereas_o the_o apostle_n when_o he_o oppose_v it_o to_o the_o law_n seem_v altogether_o to_o make_v it_o a_o internal_a thing_n a_o vital_a form_n and_o principle_n seat_v in_o the_o mind_n and_o spirit_n of_o man_n 2_o cor._n 3._o the_o law_n be_v a_o external_a rule_n or_o dispensation_n that_o can_v not_o give_v life_n though_o it_o show_v the_o way_n to_o it_o gal._n 3._o 21._o but_o the_o gospel_n in_o the_o most_o proper_a notion_n of_o it_o seem_v to_o be_v a_o internal_a impression_n from_o god_n a_o live_a principle_n whereby_o the_o soul_n be_v enable_v to_o express_v a_o real_a conformity_n to_o god_n himself_o if_o we_o consider_v the_o gospel_n in_o the_o history_n of_o it_o and_o as_o a_o piece_n of_o book-learning_n it_o be_v as_o weak_a and_o impotent_a a_o thing_n as_o the_o law_n be_v and_o man_n may_v be_v as_o overly_o and_o formal_a in_o the_o profession_n of_o this_o as_o they_o be_v of_o that_o which_o we_o see_v by_o daily_o sad_a experience_n but_o if_o we_o consider_v the_o gospel_n as_o a_o efflux_n of_o life_n and_o power_n from_o god_n himself_o upon_o the_o soul_n produce_v life_n wherever_o it_o come_v than_o we_o have_v a_o clear_a distinction_n between_o the_o law_n and_o the_o gospel_n to_o which_o the_o apostle_n seem_v to_o refer_v when_o he_o call_v the_o corinthian_n the_o epistle_n of_o christ_n not_o write_v with_o ink_n nor_o in_o table_n of_o stone_n but_o with_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o live_a god_n in_o fleshly_a table_n of_o the_o heart_n 2_o cor._n 3_o 3._o according_a to_o which_o notion_n of_o the_o law_n and_o gospel_n i_o think_v we_o may_v with_o a_o learned_a man_n of_o our_o own_o come_v to_o a_o good_a understanding_n of_o that_o torment_a text_n jer._n 30._o 31._o quote_v by_o the_o apostle_n heb._n 10._o 8._o this_o be_v the_o covenant_n that_o i_o will_v make_v i_o will_v put_v my_o law_n into_o their_o mind_n etc._n etc._n the_o gospel_n do_v not_o so_o much_o consist_v in_o verbis_fw-la as_o in_o virtute_fw-la a_o divine_a principle_n of_o religion_n in_o the_o soul_n be_v the_o best_a gospel_n and_o so_o abraham_n and_o moses_n under_o the_o law_n be_v true_o gospeler_n and_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n all_o carnal_a christian_n that_o converse_v with_o the_o gospel_n only_o as_o a_o thing_n without_o they_o be_v as_o true_o legal_a and_o as_o far_o short_a of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n as_o ever_o any_o of_o the_o jew_n be_v thus_o we_o see_v that_o religion_n be_v a_o principle_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o good_a men._n shall_v be_v in_o he_o a_o well_o of_o water_n we_o shall_v here_o now_o take_v notice_n of_o the_o difference_n between_o the_o true_a and_o all_o counterfeit_a religion_n religion_n be_v that_o pearl_n of_o great_a price_n which_o few_o man_n be_v possess_v of_o though_o all_o man_n pretend_v to_o it_o laodicean-like_a say_v they_o be_v rich_a and_o need_v nothing_o when_o indeed_o they_o be_v poor_a and_o have_v nothing_o this_o than_o shall_v be_v the_o test_n by_o which_o at_o present_a we_o will_v a_o little_a try_v the_o counterfeit_a pearl_n true_a religion_n be_v a_o inward_a nature_n a_o inward_a and_o abide_a principle_n in_o the_o mind_n of_o good_a man_n a_o well_o of_o water_n 1._o then_o we_o must_v exclude_v all_o thing_n that_o be_v mere_o external_a these_o be_v not_o it_o religion_n be_v not_o something_o annex_v to_o the_o soul_n ab_fw-la extra_fw-la but_o a_o new_a nature_n put_v into_o it_o and_o here_o we_o shall_v glance_v at_o two_o thing_n 1._o a_o godly_a soul_n do_v not_o find_v the_o whole_a of_o his_o soul_n lie_v without_o he_o religion_n do_v not_o consist_v in_o external_a reformation_n though_o never_o so_o many_o and_o specious_a a_o false_a and_o overly_o religion_n may_v serve_v to_o tie_v man_n hand_n and_o reduce_v their_o outward_a action_n to_o a_o fair_a seemliness_n in_o the_o eye_n of_o man_n but_o true_a religion_n be_v main_a dominion_n and_o power_n be_v over_o the_o soul_n and_o its_o business_n lie_v most_o in_o reform_v and_o purge_v the_o heart_n with_o all_o the_o affection_n and_o motion_n thereof_o it_o be_v not_o a_o batter_a ram_n come_v from_o without_o and_o serve_v to_o beat_v down_o the_o outwork_n of_o open_a and_o visible_a enormity_n of_o life_n but_o enter_v with_o a_o secret_a and_o sweet_a power_n into_o the_o soul_n itself_o and_o reduce_v it_o from_o its_o rebellious_a temper_n and_o persuade_v it_o willing_o to_o surrender_v itself_o and_o all_o that_o be_v in_o it_o sin_n may_v be_v beat_v out_o of_o the_o outward_a conversation_n and_o yet_o retire_v and_o hide_v itself_o in_o the_o secret_a place_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o there_o bear_v rule_n as_o perfect_o by_o wicked_a love_n and_o lust_n as_o ever_o it_o do_v by_o profane_a and_o notorious_a practice_n a_o man_n hand_n may_v be_v tie_v by_o some_o external_a cord_n cast_v upon_o they_o from_o visible_a revenge_n and_o yet_o murder_n may_v lodge_v in_o the_o temple_n of_o his_o heart_n as_o murderer_n lodge_v in_o the_o temple_n of_o old_a man_n tongue_n may_v be_v tie_v up_o from_o the_o foul_a sin_n of_o give_v fair_a word_n concern_v themselves_o very_a shame_n may_v chastise_v they_o out_o of_o proud_a boasting_n and_o self-exaltings_a when_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n they_o swell_v in_o self-conceit_n and_o be_v not_o afraid_a to_o bear_v a_o unchaste_a and_o sinful_a love_n towards_o their_o own_o perfection_n and_o adore_v a_o image_n of_o self_n set_v up_o in_o their_o heart_n what_o a_o fair_a outside_n the_o pharisee_n have_v himself_o will_v best_o describe_v for_o indeed_o it_o be_v one_o of_o his_o property_n to_o describe_v himself_o luke_o 18._o 11._o god_n i_o thank_v thou_o that_o i_o be_o not_o etc._n etc._n but_o if_o you_o will_v have_v a_o draught_n of_o his_o inside_n you_o may_v best_o take_v it_o from_o our_o saviour_n matth._n 23._o neither_o do_v religion_n consist_v in_o external_a performance_n though_o never_o so_o many_o and_o seem_o spiritual_a many_o professor_n of_o christianity_n i_o doubt_v sink_v all_o their_o religion_n into_o a_o constant_a course_n of_o duty_n and_o a_o model_n of_o performance_n be_v more_o stranger_n to_o the_o life_n and_o strength_n and_o sweetness_n of_o true_a religion_n those_o thing_n be_v needful_a and_o useful_a and_o helpful_a yea_o and_o honourable_a because_o they_o have_v a_o relation_n and_o some_o tendency_n to_o god_n but_o they_o be_v apt_a to_o become_v snare_n and_o idol_n to_o superstitious_a mind_n who_o conceit_n that_o god_n be_v some_o way_n gratify_v by_o these_o and_o so_o they_o take_v up_o their_o rest_n in_o they_o that_o religion_n that_o only_a varnish_n and_o beautify_v the_o outside_n tune_v the_o tongue_n to_o prayer_n and_o conference_n instruct_v and_o extend_v the_o hand_n to_o diligence_n and_o almesdeed_n that_o awe_v the_o conversation_n into_o some_o external_a righteousness_n o●_n devotion_n be_v here_o exclude_v as_o also_o by_o the_o apostle_n 1_o cor._n 13._o much_o less_o can_v that_o pass_v for_o religion_n that_o spend_v itself_o about_o form_n and_o opinion_n and_o party_n and_o many_o disputable_a point_n which_o we_o have_v see_v so_o much_o of_o in_o our_o own_o generation_n the_o religion_n that_o run_v upon_o mode_n and_o turn_v upon_o interest_n as_o a_o door_n turn_v upon_o its_o hinge_n be_v a_o poor_a narrow_a scant_a thing_n and_o may_v easy_o view_v itself_o at_o once_o all_o together_o from_o first_o to_o last_o man_n may_v be_v as_o far_o from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n in_o their_o more_o spiritual_a form_n and_o orthodox_n opinion_n as_o they_o be_v in_o their_o more_o carnal_a and_o erroneous_a if_o they_o take_v up_o
their_o rest_n in_o they_o neither_o be_v it_o the_o pursue_v of_o any_o interest_n that_o will_v denominate_v they_o religious_a but_o the_o grand_a interest_n of_o their_o soul_n 2._o a_o godly_a soul_n in_o his_o more_o inward_a and_o spiritual_a act_n have_v not_o his_o motive_n without_o he_o for_o a_o man_n may_v be_v somewhat_o more_o inward_a in_o his_o motion_n and_o yet_o as_o outward_a in_o his_o motive_n as_o the_o former_a religion_n act_n and_o gracious_a motion_n be_v not_o original_o and_o primary_o cause_v by_o some_o weight_n hang_v upon_o the_o soul_n either_o by_o god_n or_o man_n neither_o by_o the_o worldly_a blessing_n which_o god_n give_v nor_o the_o heavy_a affliction_n which_o he_o send_v the_o wing_n by_o which_o the_o godly_a soul_n fly_v out_o towards_o god_n be_v not_o wax_v to_o he_o as_o the_o poet_n feign_v icarus_n to_o have_v be_v but_o they_o grow_v out_o of_o himself_o as_o the_o wing_n of_o a_o eagle_n that_o fly_v swift_o towards_o heaven_n on_o the_o other_o side_n a_o soul_n may_v be_v press_v down_o unto_o humiliation_n under_o the_o heavy_a weight_n of_o god_n judgement_n that_o have_v no_o mind_n to_o stoop_v no_o self-denying_a or_o self-debasing_a disposition_n in_o it_o thus_o you_o may_v see_v jehu_n fly_v upon_o the_o wing_n of_o ambition_n and_o revenge_n bear_v up_o by_o success_n in_o his_o government_n and_o his_o predecessor_n ahab_n bow_v down_o mournful_o under_o a_o heavy_a sentence_n the_o law_n and_o penalty_n and_o encouragement_n and_o observation_n of_o man_n do_v sometime_o put_v a_o weight_n upon_o the_o soul_n too_o but_o they_o beget_v a_o more_o sluggish_a uneven_a and_o unkind_o motion_n in_o it_o you_o may_v expect_v that_o under_o this_o head_n i_o shall_v speak_v something_o of_o heaven_n and_o hell_n and_o true_o so_o i_o may_v very_o pertinent_o for_o i_o think_v they_o do_v belong_v to_o this_o place_n if_o you_o take_v heaven_n proper_o for_o a_o full_a and_o glorious_a union_n to_o god_n and_o fruition_n of_o he_o and_o hell_n for_o a_o eternal_a separation_n and_o straggle_a from_o the_o divinity_n and_o suppose_v that_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o the_o fear_n of_o live_v without_o he_o be_v well_o drink_v into_o the_o soul_n then_o very_o these_o be_v pure_a and_o religious_a principle_n but_o if_o we_o view_v they_o as_o thing_n mere_o without_o we_o and_o reserve_v for_o we_o and_o under_o those_o common_a carnal_a notion_n of_o delectableness_n and_o dreadfulness_n they_o be_v no_o high_a nor_o better_a motive_n to_o we_o than_o the_o carnal_a jew_n have_v in_o the_o wilderness_n when_o they_o turn_v their_o back_n upon_o egypt_n where_o they_o have_v be_v in_o bondage_n and_o set_v their_o face_n towards_o canaan_n where_o they_o hope_v to_o find_v milk_n and_o honey_n peace_n plenty_n and_o liberty_n a_o soul_n be_v not_o carry_v to_o heaven_n as_o a_o body_n be_v carry_v to_o the_o grave_a upon_o man_n shoulder_n it_o be_v not_o bear_v up_o by_o prop_n whether_o humane_a or_o divine_a nor_o carry_v to_o god_n in_o a_o charior_fw-la as_o a_o man_n be_v carry_v to_o see_v his_o friend_n the_o holy_a fire_n of_o ardent_a love_n wherein_o the_o soul_n of_o elijah_n have_v be_v long_o carry_v up_o towards_o god_n be_v something_o more_o excellent_a and_o indeed_o more_o desirable_a than_o the_o fiery_a chariot_n by_o which_o his_o body_n and_o soul_n be_v translate_v together_o religion_n be_v a_o spring_n of_o motion_n which_o god_n have_v put_v into_o the_o soul_n itself_o and_o a●_n all_o thing_n that_o be_v external_a whether_o action_n or_o motive_n be_v exclude_v in_o this_o examination_n which_o we_o make_v of_o religion_n so_o neither_o 2._o must_v we_o allow_v of_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v internal_a to_o be_v religion_n and_o therefore_o 1._o it_o be_v not_o a_o fit_a a_o start_n a_o sudden_a passion_n of_o the_o mind_n cause_v by_o the_o power_n and_o strength_n of_o some_o present_a conviction_n in_o the_o soul_n which_o in_o a_o hot_a mood_n will_v needs_o make_v out_o after_o god_n in_o all_o haste_n this_o may_v fit_o be_v compare_v to_o the_o rash_a and_o rude_a motion_n of_o the_o host_n of_o israel_n who_o be_v chide_v for_o their_o slothfulness_n over_o night_n rise_v up_o early_o in_o the_o morning_n and_o get_v they_o up_o into_o the_o top_n of_o the_o mountain_n say_v lo_o we_o be_v here_o and_o will_v go_v up_o unto_o the_o place_n which_o the_o lord_n have_v promise_v for_o we_o have_v sin_v numb_a 14._o 40._o and_o indeed_o it_o ●ares_n with_o these_o man_n oftentimes_o as_o it_o do_v with_o those_o both_o as_o to_o the_o undertake_n and_o as_o to_o the_o success_n their_o motion_n be_v as_o sinful_a as_o their_o station_n and_o their_o success_n be_v answerable_a they_o be_v drive_v back_o and_o discomfit_v in_o their_o enterprise_n nay_o though_o this_o passion_n may_v arise_v so_o high_a as_o to_o be_v call_v a_o ecstasy_n or_o a_o rapture_n yet_o it_o deserve_v not_o the_o name_n of_o religion_n for_o religion_n be_v as_o one_o speak_v elegant_o like_o the_o natural_a hea●_n that_o be_v radicate_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o live_a creature_n which_o have_v the_o dominion_n of_o the_o whole_a body_n and_o send_v forth_o warm_a blood_n and_o spirit_n and_o vital_a nourishment_n into_o every_o part_n and_o member_n it_o regulate●_n and_o order_n the_o motion_n of_o it_o in_o a_o due_a and_o even_a manner_n but_o these_o ecstatical_a soul●_n though_o they_o may_v blaze_v like_o a_o comet_n and_o swell_v like_o a_o torrent_n or_o land-flood_n for_o a_o time_n and_o shoot_v forth_o fresh_a and_o high_a for_o a_o little_a season_n be_v soon_o extinguish_v empty_v and_o dry_v up_o because_o they_o have_v not_o a_o principle_n a_o stock_n to_o spend_v upon_o or_o as_o our_o saviour_n speak_v no_o root_n in_o themselves_o these_o man_n motion_n and_o action_n bear_v no_o more_o proportion_n to_o religion_n than_o a_o land-flood_n that_o swell_v high_a and_o run_v swift_o but_o it_o be_v only_o during_o the_o rain_n or_o in_o the_o scripture-phrase_n no_o more_o than_o a_o morning-dew_n that_o soon_o pass_v away_o hos_fw-la 6._o 4._o be_v like_o a_o well_o or_o fountain_n of_o water_n 2._o if_o religion_n be_v a_o principle_n a_o new_a nature_n in_o the_o soul_n than_o it_o be_v not_o a_o mee●_n mechanism●_n ●_o piece_n of_o art_n art_n imitate_v nature_n nothing_o more_o ordinary_a i_o doubt_v than_o for_o religion_n itself_o that_o new_a nature_n to_o go_v into_o a_o art_n i_o need_v not_o tell_v you_o how_o all_o the_o external_a act_n and_o shooting_n forth_o of_o religion_n may_v be_v dissemble_v and_o imitate_v by_o art_n and_o be_v act_v over_o by_o a_o mimical_a apish_a pharis●●_n who_o find_v nothing_o at_o all_o of_o the_o gentle_a and_o mighty_a hea●_n not_o the_o divine_a and_o noble_a life_n of_o it_o in_o his_o own_o soul_n whereby_o he_o may_v fair_o deceive_v the_o credulous_a world_n as_o i_o have_v partly_o hint_v already_o but_o it_o be_v possible_a i_o wish_v it_o be_v not_o common_a for_o man_n that_o be_v somewhat_o more_o convince_v enlighten_v and_o affect_v to_o imitate_v the_o very_a power_n and_o spirit_n of_o religion_n and_o to_o deceive_v themselves_o too_o as_o if_o they_o possess_v some_o true_a live_a principle_n and_o herein_o they_o exceed_v the_o most_o exquisite_a painter_n now_o this_o may_v be_v do_v by_o the_o power_n of_o a_o quick_a and_o raise_a fancy_n man_n hear_v such_o glorious_a thing_n speak_v of_o heaven_n the_o city_n of_o the_o great_a king_n the_o new_a jerusalem_n may_v be_v carry_v out_o by_o the_o power_n of_o self-love_n to_o wish_v themselves_o there_o be_v mighty_o take_v with_o a_o conceit_n of_o the_o place_n but_o how_o shall_v they_o come_v at_o it_o why_o they_o have_v see_v in_o book_n and_o hear_v in_o discourse_n of_o certain_a sign_n of_o grace_n and_o evidence_n of_o salvation_n and_o now_o they_o set_v their_o fancy_n on_o work_n to_o find_v or_o make_v some_o such_o thing_n in_o themselves_o fancy_n be_v well_o acquaint_v with_o the_o several_a affection_n of_o love_n fear_v joy_n grief_n which_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n and_o have_v a_o great_a command_n over_o the_o animal_n spirit_n it_o can_v send_v they_o forth_o to_o raise_v up_o these_o affection_n even_o almost_o when_o it_o list_v and_o when_o it_o have_v raise_v they_o it_o be_v but_o put_v to_o some_o thought_n of_o god_n and_o heaven_n and_o then_o these_o look_n like_o a_o handsome_a platform_n of_o true_a religion_n draw_v in_o the_o soul_n which_o they_o present_o view_v and_o fall_v in_o love_n with_o and_o think_v they_o do_v even_o taste_v of_o the_o power_n of_o the_o world_n to_o come_v when_o indeed_o it_o be_v nothing_o but_o a_o self-fulness_n and_o sufficiency_n
that_o they_o feed_v upon_o now_o you_o may_v know_v this_o artificial_a religion_n by_o this_o these_o man_n can_v vary_v it_o alter_v it_o enlarge_v it_o straiten_v it_o and_o new_a mould_n it_o at_o pleasure_n according_a to_o what_o they_o see_v in_o other_o or_o according_a to_o what_o themselves_o like_o best_a one_o while_o act_v over_o the_o joy_n and_o confidence_n of_o some_o christian_n anon_o the_o humiliation_n and_o brokenness_n of_o other_o but_o this_o fanciful_a religion_n proceed_v indeed_o from_o nothing_o but_o low_a and_o carnal_a conceit_n of_o god_n and_o heaven_n be_v of_o a_o flit_a and_o vanish_v nature_n but_o true_a christian_n be_v gen●●y_a yet_o powerful_o move_v by_o the_o natural_a force_n of_o true_a goodness_n and_o the_o beauty_n of_o god_n and_o do_v move_v on_o stedy_o and_o constant_o in_o their_o way_n to_o he_o and_o pursuit_n of_o he_o the_o spirit_n of_o regeneration_n in_o good_a man_n spread_v itself_o upon_o the_o understanding_n and_o sweet_o derive_v itself_o through_o the_o will_n and_o affection_n which_o make_v true_a religion_n to_o be_v a_o consistent_a and_o thrive_a principle_n in_o the_o soul_n as_o not_o be_v act_v upon_o the_o stage_n of_o imagination_n but_o upon_o the_o high_a power_n of_o the_o soul_n itself_o and_o may_v be_v discern_v by_o the_o evenness_n of_o its_o motion_n and_o the_o immortality_n of_o its_o nature_n for_o a_o good_a man_n though_o indeed_o he_o can_v go_v on_o always_o with_o like_a speed_n and_o cheerfulness_n in_o his_o way_n yet_o be_v not_o will_v at_o any_o time_n to_o be_v quite_o out_o of_o it_o by_o this_o same_o nature_n of_o true_a religion_n you_o may_v examine_v all_o those_o spurious_a and_o counterfeit_a religion_n that_o spring_n from_o a_o natural_a belief_n of_o a_o deity_n from_o conviction_n observation_n fleshly_a and_o low_a apprehension_n of_o heaven_n book-learning_n and_o the_o precept_n of_o man_n as_o the_o prophet_n call_v they_o and_o the_o rest_n which_o be_v seat_v in_o the_o fancy_n and_o swim_v in_o the_o brain_n who_o effect_n be_v but_o to_o gild_v the_o outward_a man_n or_o at_o best_o but_o to_o move_v the_o soul_n by_o a_o external_a force_n in_o a_o unnatural_a inconstant_a and_o transient_a manner_n in_o a_o word_n all_o these_o pretender_n to_o religion_n may_v seem_v to_o have_v water_n but_o they_o have_v no_o well_o as_o there_o be_v other_o deep_a man_n principled_a indeed_o with_o learning_n policy_n ingenuity_n etc._n etc._n but_o not_o with_o true_a goodness_n who_o the_o apostle_n call_v wells_n but_o without_o water_n 2_o pet._n 2._o 7._o but_o the_o true_o godly_a and_o godlike_a soul_n have_v in_o itself_o a_o principle_n of_o pure_a religion_n the_o water_n that_o i_o shall_v give_v he_o shall_v be_v a_o well_o of_o water_n spring_v up_o into_o eternal_a life_n chap._n iii_o contain_v the_o first_o property_n mention_v of_o true_a religion_n viz._n the_o freeness_n and_o unconstrainedness_n of_o it_o this_o discover_v in_o several_a outward_a act_n of_o morality_n and_o worship_n as_o also_o in_o the_o more_o inward_a act_n of_o the_o soul_n this_o freedom_n consider_v as_o to_o its_o author_n in_o which_o be_v consider_v how_o far_o the_o command_n of_o god_n may_v be_v say_v to_o act_v a_o godly_a soul_n second_o consider_v as_o to_o its_o object_n two_o cautionary_a concession_n first_o that_o some_o thing_n without_o the_o soul_n may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v motive_n how_o far_o affliction_n and_o temporal_a prosperity_n may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v so_o second_o that_o there_o be_v a_o constraint_n lie_v upon_o the_o godly_a soul_n which_o yet_o take_v not_o away_o its_o freedom_n a_o enquiry_n into_o force_a devotion_n and_o first_o into_o the_o cause_n of_o it_o viz._n man_n themselves_o and_o that_o upon_o a_o threefold_a account_n other_o man_n or_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n second_o into_o the_o property_n of_o it_o prove_v that_o it_o be_v for_o the_o most_o part_n dry_a and_o spiritless_a needy_a and_o penurious_a uneven_a and_o not_o permanent_a i_o proceed_v now_o from_o the_o nature_n of_o religion_n to_o speak_v of_o the_o property_n of_o it_o as_o many_o of_o they_o as_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d ed_z under_o this_o phrase_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d spring_v up_o into_o everlasting_a life_n not_o to_o squeeze_v the_o phrase_n any_o further_a than_o it_o will_v natural_o afford_v discourse_n i_o shall_v only_o take_v notice_n of_o these_o three_o property_n of_o true_a religion_n contain_v in_o the_o word_n spring_v up_o viz._n the_o freeness_n activity_n and_o permanency_n or_o perseverance_n of_o it_o the_o first_o proselyte_n of_o it_o couch_v under_o this_o phrase_n be_v that_o be_v be_v free_a and_o unconstrained_a religion_n be_v a_o principle_n and_o it_o flow_v and_o act_n free_o in_o the_o soul_n after_o the_o manner_n of_o a_o fountain_n and_o in_o the_o day_n of_o its_o mighty_a power_n make_v the_o people_n a_o willing_a people_n psal_n 110._o 3._o and_o the_o soul_n in_o who_o it_o be_v true_o seat_v to_o become_v a_o freewill_n offer_v unto_o god_n alexander_n the_o great_a subdue_v the_o world_n with_o force_n of_o arm_n and_o make_v man_n rather_o his_o tributary_n and_o servant_n than_o his_o lover_n and_o friend_n but_o the_o great_a god_n the_o king_n of_o soul_n obtain_v a_o amicable_a conquest_n over_o the_o heart_n of_o his_o elect_a and_o over-power_n they_o in_o such_o a_o manner_n that_o they_o love_v to_o be_v his_o servant_n and_o do_v willing_o and_o ready_o obey_v he_o without_o dissimulation_n or_o constraint_n without_o mercinariness_n or_o morosity_n in_o which_o they_o be_v unlike_a to_o the_o subject_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o this_o world_n who_o be_v keep_v in_o their_o duty_n by_o fear_n and_o force_n not_o from_o a_o pure_a kindness_n and_o benevolence_n of_o mind_n to_o who_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d the_o present_a yoke_n be_v always_o grievous_a hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o propagation_n of_o this_o people_n be_v call_v their_o flow_v unto_o the_o lord_n isa_n 2._o 2._o the_o mountain_n of_o the_o lord_n house_n shall_v be_v establish_v and_o all_o nation_n shall_v flow_v unto_o it_o and_o again_o jer._n 31._o 12._o they_o shall_v flow_v together_o to_o the_o goodness_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o the_o disposition_n of_o this_o people_n be_v describe_v to_o be_v a_o hearty_a and_o willing_a frame_n eph._n 6._o 6_o 7._o and_o elsewhere_o often_o now_o this_o willingness_n or_o freeness_n of_o godly_a soul_n may_v be_v explain_v and_o confirm_v by_o the_o consideration_n both_o of_o their_o outward_a and_o inward_a act_n 1._o as_o to_o the_o outward_a act_n of_o service_n which_o the_o true_a christian_a do_v perform_v he_o be_v free_o carry_v out_o towards_o they_o without_o any_o constraint_n or_o force_n if_o he_o keep_v himself_o from_o the_o evil_n of_o the_o place_n and_o age_n and_o company_n wherein_o he_o live_v and_o converse_v it_o be_v not_o by_o a_o restraint_n which_o be_v upon_o he_o mere_o from_o without_o he_o but_o by_o a_o principle_n of_o holy_a temperance_n plant_v in_o his_o soul_n it_o be_v the_o seed_n of_o god_n abide_v in_o he_o that_o preserve_v he_o from_o the_o commission_n of_o sin_n 1_o joh._n 3._o 9_o he_o be_v not_o keep_v back_o from_o sin_n as_o a_o horse_n by_o a_o bridle_n but_o by_o a_o inward_a and_o spiritual_a change_n make_v in_o his_o nature_n on_o the_o other_o hand_n if_o he_o employ_v himself_o in_o any_o external_a act_n of_o moral_a or_o institute_v duty_n he_o do_v it_o free_o not_o as_o of_o necessity_n or_o by_o constraint_n if_o you_o speak_v of_o act_n of_o charity_n the_o godly_a man_n give_v from_o a_o principle_n of_o love_n to_o god_n and_o kindness_n to_o his_o brother_n and_o so_o cheerful_o not_o grudge_o or_o of_o necessity_n 2_o cor._n 9_o 7._o a_o alm_n may_v be_v wring_v out_o of_o a_o miser_n but_o it_o proceed_v from_o the_o liberal_a soul_n as_o a_o stream_n from_o its_o fountain_n therefore_o he_o be_v call_v a_o deviser_n of_o liberal_a thing_n and_o one_o that_o stand_v upon_o liberality_n as_o those_o last_o word_n of_o isa_n 32._o 8._o be_v render_v by_o the_o dutch_a translator_n if_o you_o speak_v of_o righteousness_n o●_n temperance_n he_o be_v not_o overrule_v by_o power_n or_o compel_v by_o law_n but_o indeed_o act_v by_o the_o power_n of_o that_o law_n which_o be_v write_v and_o engrave_v upon_o his_o mind_n if_o you_o speak_v of_o act_n of_o worship_n whether_o moral_a or_o institute_v in_o all_o these_o he_o be_v also_o free_a as_o to_o any_o constraint_n prayer_n be_v not_o his_o task_n or_o a_o piece_n of_o penance_n but_o it_o be_v the_o natural_a cry_n of_o the_o new_a bear_v soul_n neither_o do_v he_o take_v it_o up_o as_o a_o piece_n of_o policy_n
and_o not_o by_o force_n and_o constraint_n as_o a_o fool_n to_o the_o correction_n of_o the_o stock_n or_o a_o bear_n to_o the_o stake_n these_o be_v all_o genuine_a offspring_n of_o holy_a religion_n in_o the_o soul_n and_o they_o be_v utter_o uncapable_a of_o force_n violence_n be_v contrary_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o they_o for_o to_o use_v the_o apostle_n word_n with_o the_o change_n of_o one_o word_n hope_v that_o be_v force_v be_v not_o hope_v now_o a_o little_a further_o to_o explain_v this_o excellent_a property_n of_o true_a religion_n we_o may_v a_o little_a consider_v the_o author_n and_o the_o object_n of_o it_o the_o author_n of_o this_o noble_a and_o free_a principle_n be_v god_n himself_o who_o have_v make_v it_o a_o partaker_n of_o his_o own_o nature_n who_o be_v the_o free_a agent_n himself_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o his_o own_o acts._n the_o uncreated_a life_n and_o liberty_n have_v give_v this_o privilege_n to_o the_o religious_a soul_n in_o some_o sense_n to_o have_v life_n and_o liberty_n in_o itself_o and_o a_o dominion_n over_o its_o own_o acts._n i_o do_v not_o know_v that_o any_o create_v be_v in_o the_o world_n have_v more_o of_o divinity_n in_o it_o than_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n qua_fw-la nihil_fw-la homini_fw-la dedit_fw-la deus_fw-la ipse_fw-la divinius_fw-la as_o tully_n speak_v nor_o that_o any_o thing_n in_o the_o soul_n do_v more_o resemble_v the_o divine_a essence_n than_o the_o noble_a freedom_n that_o the_o soul_n have_v in_o itself_o which_o freedom_n be_v never_o so_o divine_a and_o generous_a as_o when_o it_o be_v object_v upon_o god_n himself_o this_o excellent_a freedom_n be_v something_o of_o god_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n and_o therefore_o may_v just_o claim_v the_o free_a spirit_n for_o its_o author_n psal_n 51._o 12._o 2._o cor._n 3._o 17._o or_o the_o son_n of_o god_n for_o its_o original_n according_a to_o that_o in_o joh._n 8._o 36._o if_o the_o son_n shall_v make_v you_o free_a then_o shall_v you_o be_v free_a indeed_o but_o here_o it_o may_v be_v demand_v whether_o the_o command_n of_o god_n do_v not_o act_v the_o godly_a soul_n and_o set_v it_o upon_o its_o holy_a motion_n i_o confess_v indeed_o that_o the_o command_n of_o god_n be_v much_o eye_v by_o a_o godly_a man_n and_o be_v of_o great_a weight_n with_o he_o and_o do_v in_o some_o sense_n lie_v a_o constraint_n upon_o he_o but_o yet_o i_o think_v not_o so_o much_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o law_n as_o the_o reasonableness_n and_o goodness_n of_o it_o do_v prevail_v principal_o with_o he_o the_o religious_a soul_n do_v not_o so_o much_o eye_n the_o law_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o a_o command_n as_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o holy_a just_a and_o good_a as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v and_o so_o embrace_v it_o chooses_z it_o and_o belong_v to_o be_v perfect_o conformable_a to_o it_o i_o do_v nor_o think_v it_o so_o proper_a to_o say_v that_o a_o good_a man_n love_v god_n and_o all_o righteousness_n and_o holiness_n and_o religious_a duty_n by_o virtue_n of_o a_o command_n to_o do_v so_o as_o by_o virtue_n of_o a_o new_a nature_n that_o god_n have_v put_v into_o he_o which_o do_v instruct_v and_o prompt_v he_o so_o to_o do_v a_o religious_a soul_n be_v reconcile_v to_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n do_v embrace_v all_o his_o law_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o equitableness_n and_o perfection_n that_o he_o see_v in_o they_o not_o because_o they_o be_v command_v but_o because_o they_o be_v in_o themselves_o to_o be_v desire_v as_o david_n speak_v psal_n 19_o 10._o in_o which_o psalm_n the_o holy_a man_n give_v we_o a_o full_a account_n why_o he_o do_v so_o love_n and_o esteem_v the_o law_n and_o commandment_n of_o god_n viz._n because_o they_o be_v perfect_a right_a pure_a clean_a true_a sweet_a and_o lovely_a as_o you_o will_v find_v v._o 7_o 8_o 9_o 10._o to_o love_v the_o lord_n our_o god_n with_o all_o our_o heart_n and_o strength_n and_o mind_n be_v not_o only_o a_o duty_n by_o virtue_n of_o that_o first_o and_o great_a commandment_n that_o do_v require_v it_o but_o indeed_o the_o high_a privilege_n honour_n and_o happiness_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o this_o purpose_n may_v that_o profession_n of_o the_o psalmist_n be_v apply_v psal_n 119._o 173._o i_o have_v choose_v thy_o precept_n and_o ver_fw-la 30._o i_o have_v choose_v the_o way_n of_o truth_n choose_v be_v a_o act_n of_o judgement_n and_o understanding_n and_o respect_v the_o quality_n of_o the_o thing_n more_o than_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o command_n david_n do_v not_o stumble_v into_o the_o way_n of_o truth_n accidental_o by_o virtue_n of_o his_o education_n or_o acquaintance_n or_o the_o like_a circumstance_n nor_o be_v he_o whip_v or_o drive_v into_o it_o by_o the_o mere_a severity_n of_o a_o law_n without_o he_o but_o he_o choose_v the_o way_n of_o truth_n as_o that_o which_o be_v indeed_o most_o eligible_a pleasant_a and_o desirable_a what_o our_o bless_a saviour_n say_v concern_v himself_o be_v also_o true_a of_o every_o true_a christian_a in_o his_o measure_n he_o make_v it_o his_o meat_n and_o drink_n to_o do_v the_o will_n of_o god_n now_o we_o know_v that_o man_n do_v not_o eat_v and_o drink_v because_o physician_n prescribe_v it_o as_o a_o mean_n to_o preserve_v life_n but_o the_o sensual_a appetite_n be_v carry_v out_o towards_o food_n because_o it_o be_v good_a sweet_a suitable_a so_o be_v the_o spiritual_a appetite_n carry_v out_o towards_o spiritual_a food_n not_o so_o much_o by_o the_o force_n of_o a_o external_a precept_n as_o by_o the_o attractive_a power_n of_o that_o high_a good_a which_o it_o find_v suitable_a and_o sufficient_a for_o it_o as_o for_o the_o object_n of_o this_o free_a and_o generous_a spirit_n of_o religion_n it_o be_v no_o other_o than_o god_n himself_o principal_o and_o ultimate_o and_o other_o thing_n only_o as_o they_o be_v subservient_fw-fr to_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o he_o god_n as_o the_o supreme_a good_a able_a to_o fill_v and_o perfect_o satisfy_v all_o the_o want_n and_o indigency_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o so_o to_o make_v it_o whole_o and_o eternal_o happy_a be_v the_o proper_a object_n of_o the_o soul_n most_o free_a and_o cheerful_a motion_n the_o soul_n eye_n god_n as_o the_o perfect_a and_o absolute_a good_a and_o god_n in_o christ_n as_o a_o feasable_a and_o attainable_a good_a and_o so_o find_v every_o way_n enough_o in_o this_o object_n to_o encourage_v it_o to_o pursue_v after_o he_o and_o throw_v itself_o upon_o he_o religion_n fix_v upon_o god_n as_o upon_o its_o own_o centre_n as_o upon_o its_o proper_a and_o adequate_a object_n it_o view_v god_n as_o the_o infinite_a and_o absolute_a good_a and_o so_o be_v draw_v to_o he_o without_o any_o external_a force_n the_o godly_a soul_n be_v overpowr_v indeed_o but_o it_o be_v only_o with_o the_o infinite_a goodness_n of_o god_n which_o exercise_v its_o sovereignty_n over_o all_o the_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n which_o overpowering_a be_v so_o far_o from_o straighten_n or_o pinch_v it_o that_o it_o make_v it_o true_o free_a and_o generous_a in_o its_o motion_n religion_n wing_n the_o soul_n and_o make_v it_o take_v a_o flight_n free_o and_o swift_o towards_o god_n and_o eternal_a life_n it_o be_v of_o god_n and_o by_o a_o sympathy_n that_o it_o have_v with_o he_o it_o carry_v the_o soul_n out_o after_o he_o and_o into_o conjunction_n with_o he_o in_o a_o word_n the_o godly_a soul_n be_v loosen_a from_o self-love_n empty_v of_o self-fulness_n beat_v out_o of_o all_o self-satisfaction_n and_o deliver_v from_o all_o self-confining_a lust_n will_n interest_n and_o end_n and_o be_v mighty_o overcome_v with_o a_o sense_n of_o a_o high_a and_o more_o excellent_a good_a go_v after_o that_o free_o centre_n upon_o it_o firm_o grasp_v after_o it_o continual_o and_o have_v rather_o be_v that_o than_o what_o itself_o be_v as_o see_v that_o the_o nature_n of_o that_o supreme_a good_a be_v infinite_o more_o excellent_a and_o desirable_a than_o its_o own_o thus_o have_v i_o brief_o explain_v and_o confirm_v the_o freeness_n of_o this_o principle_n in_o the_o true_o godly_a soul_n i_o will_v now_o make_v some_o little_a improvement_n of_o it_o but_o that_o it_o seem_v needful_a i_o shall_v here_o interweave_v a_o cautionary_a concession_n or_o two_o first_o it_o must_v be_v grant_v that_o something_n without_o the_o soul_n may_v be_v motive_n in_o our_o common_a sense_n and_o encouragement_n to_o the_o soul_n to_o quicken_v and_o ●asten_v and_o strengthen_v it_o in_o its_o religious_a act_n though_o grace_n be_v a_o internal_a principle_n and_o most_o free_a from_o any_o constraint_n yet_o it_o may_v be_v excite_v or_o stir_v up_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v 2_o t●m_n 1._o 6._o by_o such_o mean_n as_o god_n have_v appoint_v hereunto_o as_o prayer_n
meditation_n read_v administration_n of_o our_o calling_n as_o the_o apostle_n intimate_v in_o the_o body_n of_o that_o forequoted_a epistle_n but_o perhaps_o there_o will_v a_o question_n arise_v concern_v some_o other_o thing_n which_o may_v seem_v to_o lay_v a_o constraint_n upon_o the_o spirit_n of_o man_n i_o deny_v not_o but_o that_o the_o seem_o religious_a motion_n of_o many_o man_n be_v mere_o violent_a and_o their_o devotion_n be_v pure_o force_v as_o we_o shall_v see_v by_o and_o by_o but_o i_o affirm_v and_o i_o think_v have_v confirm_v it_o that_o true_a and_o sincere_a religion_n be_v perfect_o free_a and_o unconstrained_a this_o be_v premise_v now_o if_o you_o ask_v i_o what_o i_o think_v of_o affliction_n i_o confess_v god_n do_v ordinary_o use_v they_o as_o mean_n to_o make_v good_a man_n better_o and_o it_o may_v be_v sometime_o to_o make_v bad_a man_n good_a these_o may_v be_v as_o weight_n to_o hasten_v and_o speed_v the_o soul_n motion_n towards_o god_n but_o they_o do_v not_o principal_o beget_v such_o motion_n if_o you_o ask_v i_o of_o temporal_a prosperity_n common_o call_v mercy_n and_o blessing_n of_o promise_n and_o reward_v propound_v i_o confess_v they_o may_v be_v as_o oil_n to_o the_o wheel_n and_o aught_o to_o quicken_v and_o encourage_v to_o the_o study_n of_o true_a and_o powerful_a godliness_n but_o they_o be_v not_o the_o spring_n of_o the_o soul_n motion_n they_o ought_v to_o be_v unto_o we_o as_o dew_n upon_o the_o grass_n to_o refresh_v and_o fructify_v the_o soul_n but_o it_o be_v the_o root_n which_o proper_o give_v life_n and_o growth_n second_o it_o may_v be_v grant_v that_o there_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o constraint_n and_o necessity_n lie_v upon_o the_o godly_a soul_n in_o its_o holy_a and_o most_o excellent_a motion_n according_a to_o that_o of_o the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 5._o 14._o the_o love_n of_o christ_n constrain_v we_o and_o again_o 1_o cor._n 9_o 16._o necessity_n be_v lay_v upon_o i_o to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n but_o yet_o it_o hold_v good_a that_o grace_n be_v a_o most_o free_a principle_n in_o the_o soul_n and_o that_o where_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v there_o be_v liberty_n for_o the_o constraint_n that_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o be_v not_o oppose_v to_o freedom_n of_o soul_n but_o to_o not_o act_v now_o although_o the_o soul_n so_o principled_a and_o spirit_v can_v but_o act_n yet_o it_o act_v free_o those_o thing_n that_o be_v according_a to_o nature_n though_o they_o be_v do_v necessary_o yet_o be_v they_o do_v with_o the_o great_a freedom_n imaginable_a the_o water_n flow_v and_o the_o fire_n burn_v necessary_o yet_o free_o religion_n be_v a_o new_a nature_n in_o the_o soul_n and_o the_o religious_a soul_n be_v touch_v effectual_o wi●h_v the_o sense_n and_o impress_v with_o the_o influence_n of_o divine_a goodness_n fullness_n and_o perfection_n be_v carry_v indeed_o necessary_o towards_o god_n as_o its_o proper_a centre_n and_o yet_o its_o motion_n be_v pure_a free_a generous_a and_o with_o the_o great_a delight_n and_o pleasure_n conceivable_a the_o necessity_n that_o lie_v upon_o paul_n to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n be_v not_o to_o be_v understand_v of_o any_o external_a violence_n that_o be_v do_v to_o he_o much_o less_o of_o bodily_a necessity_n by_o reason_n of_o which_o many_o man_n serve_v their_o own_o belly_n in_o that_o great_a function_n more_o than_o the_o lord_n jesus_n for_o though_o he_o preach_v the_o gospel_n necessary_o yet_o do_v he_o preach_v free_o and_o willing_o as_o he_o oft_o profess_v the_o godly_a soul_n can_v but_o love_n god_n as_o his_o chief_a good_a yet_o he_o delight_v in_o this_o necessity_n under_o which_o he_o lie_v and_o be_v exceed_o glad_a that_o he_o find_v his_o heart_n frame_v and_o enlarge_v to_o love_v he_o i_o say_v enlarge_v because_o god_n be_v such_o a_o object_n as_o do_v not_o contract_n and_o pinch_v and_o straiten_v the_o soul_n as_o all_o create_a object_n do_v but_o ennoble_v ampliate_v and_o enlarge_v it_o the_o sinful_a soul_n the_o more_o it_o let_v out_o and_o lay_v out_o and_o spend_v itself_o upon_o the_o creature_n the_o more_o it_o be_v straighten_a and_o contract_v and_o the_o native_a freedom_n of_o it_o be_v enslave_v debase_v and_o destroy_v but_o grace_n do_v establish_v and_o ennoble_v the_o freedom_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o restore_v it_o to_o i●s_n primitive_a perfection_n so_o that_o a_o godly_a soul_n be_v never_o more_o large_a more_o at_o rest_n more_o at_o i_o berty_n th●●_n when_o it_o find_v itself_o deliver_v from_o all_o self_n confine_v creature-loves_a and_o lust_n and_o under_o the_o most_o powerful_a influence_n and_o constraint_n of_o infinite_a love_n and_o goodness_n by_o this_o that_o have_v be_v say_v of_o the_o free_a and_o generous_a spirit_n of_o true_a religion_n we_o may_v learn_v what_o to_o think_v of_o the_o force_a devotion_n of_o many_o press_a soldier_n of_o christ_n in_o his_o church_n militant_a that_o there_o be_v a_o vast_a difference_n and_o distance_n between_o the_o press_v and_o the_o impress_v christian_a though_o indeed_o the_o freedom_n of_o the_o will_n can_v be_v destroy_v yet_o in_o opposition_n to_o a_o principle_n many_o man_n devotion_n may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v wring_v out_o of_o they_o and_o their_o obedience_n may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v constrain_v i_o shall_v explain_v it_o brief_o in_o two_o or_o three_o particular_n 1._o man_n force_v themselves_o many_o time_n to_o some_o thing_n in_o religion_n that_o be_v beside_o yea_o and_o against_o their_o nature_n and_o genius_n i_o need_v not_o instance_n in_o a_o overly_o conformity_n to_o the_o letter_n of_o the_o law_n and_o some_o external_a duty_n which_o they_o force_v themselves_o to_o perform_v as_o to_o hear_v pray_v give_v alm_n or_o the_o like_a in_o all_o which_o the_o violent_a and_o unnatural_a obedience_n of_o a_o pharisee_fw-mi may_v be_v more_o popular_a and_o specious_a than_o the_o true_a and_o genuine_a obedience_n of_o a_o freeborn_a disciple_n of_o jesus_n christ_n if_o go_v on_o hunt_v and_o catch_v of_o venison_n may_v denominate_v a_o good_a and_o dutiful_a son_n esau_n may_v indeed_o be_v as_o acceptable_a to_o his_o father_n as_o jacob_n but_o god_n be_v not_o such_o a_o father_n as_o isaac_n who_o affection_n be_v bribe_v with_o fat_a morsel_n he_o feed_v not_o upon_o the_o pain_n of_o his_o child_n nor_o drink_v the_o sweat_n of_o their_o brow●_n i_o doubt_v not_o but_o that_o a_o unprincipled_a christian_a that_o have_v the_o heart_n of_o a_o slave_n may_v also_o force_v himself_o to_o imitate_v the_o more_o spiritual_a part_n of_o religion_n and_o as_o it_o be_v to_o act_v over_o the_o very_a temper_n and_o disposition_n of_o a_o son_n of_o god_n therefore_o we_o read_v of_o a_o semblance_n of_o joy_n and_o zeal_n which_o be_v find_v in_o some_o who_o yet_o our_o saviour_n reckon_v no_o better_a than_o stony_a ground_n mark_n 4._o 16._o and_o of_o great_a ecstasy_n in_o some_o who_o yet_o the_o apostle_n suppose_v may_v come_v to_o nothing_o heb._n 6._o 5._o and_o what_o appearance_n of_o the_o most_o excellent_a and_o divine_a grace_n of_o patience_n and_o contempt_n of_o the_o world_n many_o of_o the_o sour_a sort_n of_o monastical_a papist_n and_o our_o m●ngrel_n breed_v of_o papist_n the_o quaker_n do_v make_v at_o this_o day_n all_o man_n know_v nay_o some_o of_o these_o last_o sort_n do_v seem_v to_o themselves_o i_o believe_v to_o act_v over_o the_o temper_n and_o experience_n of_o the_o chief_a apostle_n rejoice_v with_o peter_n and_o the_o rest_n that_o they_o be_v count_v worthy_a to_o suffer_v shame_n act._n 5._o 41._o and_o keep_v a_o catalogue_n of_o their_o stripe_n with_o paul_n 2_o cor._n 11._o 24._o and_o in_o these_o thing_n i_o be_o confident_a to_o use_v the_o apostle_n word_n that_o they_o think_v themselves_o not_o a_o whit_n behind_o the_o very_o chief_a apostle_n nay_o they_o be_v not_o ashamed_a to_o lay_v claim_n to_o that_o grace_n of_o grace_n self-denial_n which_o they_o have_v force_v themselves_o to_o act_v over_o so_o artificial_o that_o even_o a_o wise_a man_n may_v almost_o be_v deceive_v into_o a_o favourable_a opinion_n of_o they_o but_o that_o we_o know_v that_o while_o they_o profess_v it_o they_o destroy_v it_o for_o it_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o self-denial_n to_o magnify_v and_o boast_v itself_o and_o indeed_o it_o be_v very_o evident_a to_o a_o wise_a observer_n that_o these_o man_n by_o a_o pretence_n of_o voluntary_a humility_n and_o counterfeit_a self-denial_n do_v in_o truth_n endeavour_v most_o of_o all_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n and_o erect_v a_o idol_n of_o self-supremacy_n in_o themselves_o and_o do_v real_o fall_v in_o love_n with_o a_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o selfsufficiency_n
instead_o of_o the_o infinite_a fullness_n of_o god_n now_o there_o seem_v to_o be_v three_o thing_n in_o a_o formal_a hypocrite_n that_o do_v especial_o force_v a_o kind_n of_o devotion_n and_o show_v of_o religion_n from_o he_o viz._n conscience_n of_o guilt_n self-love_n and_o false_a apprehension_n of_o god_n first_o there_o be_v in_o all_o man_n a_o natural_a conscience_n of_o guilt_n arise_v from_o that_o imperfect_a and_o glimmer_a light_n that_o they_o have_v of_o god_n and_o of_o their_o duty_n towards_o he_o which_o though_o it_o be_v in_o some_o man_n more_o quick_a and_o sting_a in_o other_o more_o remiss_a and_o languid_a yet_o i_o think_v be_v not_o utter_o choke_v and_o extinguish_v no_o not_o in_o the_o worst_a and_o most_o dis●ol●●e_a man_n but_o that_o it_o do_v sometime_o beget_v a_o bitter_a sadness_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o their_o sweet_a merriment_n and_o do_v disturb_v their_o most_o supine_n and_o secure_a rest_n by_o fasten_v its_o sting_n in_o their_o very_a soul_n at_o some_o time_n or_o other_o and_o fill_v they_o with_o agony_n and_o anguish_n and_o haunt_v they_o with_o dreadful_a apparition_n which_o they_o can_v be_v perfect_o rid_v of_o no_o more_o than_o they_o can_v run_v away_o from_o themselves_o this_o foundation_n of_o hell_n be_v lay_v in_o the_o bowel_n of_o sin_n itself_o as_o a_o preface_n to_o eternal_a horror_n now_o although_o some_o more_o profligate_v and_o desperate_a wretch_n do_v ●uriously_o bluster_v through_o these_o brier_n yet_o other_o be_v so_o catch_v in_o they_o that_o they_o can_v escape_v these_o pang_n and_o throw_n except_o they_o make_v a_o composition_n and_o enter_v into_o term_n to_o live_v more_o honest_o or_o at_o least_o less_o scandalous_o in_o which_o undertake_v they_o be_v carry_v on_o in_o the_o next_o place_n by_o the_o power_n of_o self-love_n or_o a_o natural_a desire_n of_o self-preservation_n for_o the_o worst_a of_o man_n have_v so_o much_o reason_n leave_v he_o that_o he_o can_v wish_v that_o himself_o be_v happy_a though_o he_o have_v not_o so_o much_o light_n as_o to_o discover_v nor_o so_o much_o true_a freedom_n of_o will_n as_o to_o choose_v the_o right_a way_n of_o happiness_n conscience_n have_v discover_v the_o certain_a reward_n and_o wage_n of_o sin_n self-love_n will_v easy_o prompt_v man_n to_o do_v something_o or_o other_o to_o escape_v it_o but_o now_o what_o shall_v they_o do_v why_o religion_n be_v the_o only_a expedient_a that_o can_v be_v find_v out_o and_o therefore_o they_o begin_v to_o think_v how_o they_o may_v become_v friend_n with_o god_n they_o will_v up_o and_o be_v do_v but_o how_o come_v they_o to_o run_v into_o so_o great_a mistake_n about_o religion_n why_o their_o false_a and_o gross_a apprehension_n of_o god_n do_v drive_v they_o from_o he_o in_o the_o way_n of_o superstition_n and_o hypocrisy_n instead_o of_o lead_v they_o in_o the_o way_n of_o sincere_a love_n and_o self-resignation_n to_o he_o self_n be_v the_o great_a diana_n of_o every_o natural_a man_n and_o the_o only_a standard_n by_o which_o he_o measure_v all_o thing_n he_o know_v not_o how_o to_o judge_v of_o god_n himself_o but_o by_o this_o and_o so_o he_o come_v to_o fancy_n god_n in_o a_o dreadful_a manner_n as_o a_o austere_a passionate_a surly_a revengeful_a majesty_n and_o so_o something_o must_v be_v do_v to_o appease_v he_o but_o yet_o he_o fancy_v this_o angry_a deity_n to_o be_v of_o a_o impotent_a mercenary_a temper_n like_o himself_o and_o not_o hard_a to_o be_v appea●ed_v neither_o and_o so_o imagine_v that_o some_o cheap_a service_n specious_a oblation_n external_a courtesy_n will_v engage_v he_o and_o make_v he_o a_o friend_n a_o sheep_n or_o a_o goat_n or_o a_o bullock_n under_o the_o old_a testament_n a_o prayer_n or_o a_o sacrament_n or_o a_o alm_n under_o the_o new_a for_o it_o be_v reconciliation_n to_o a_o angry_a god_n that_o he_o aim_v at_o not_o union_n with_o a_o good_a god_n he_o seek_v to_o be_v reconcile_v to_o god_n not_o unite_v to_o he_o though_o indeed_o these_o two_o can_v never_o be_v divide_v thus_o we_o see_v how_o a_o man_n void_a of_o the_o life_n and_o spirit_n of_o religion_n yet_o force_v himself_o to_o do_v god_n a_o kind_n of_o worship_n and_o pay_v he_o a_o kind_n of_o homage_n 2._o sometime_o man_n may_v be_v say_v in_o a_o sense_n to_o be_v force_v by_o other_o man_n to_o put_v on_o a_o vizard_n of_o holiness_n a_o dress_n of_o religion_n and_o this_o constraint_n man_n may_v lay_v upon_o man_n by_o their_o tongue_n hand_n and_o eye_n by_o their_o tongue_n in_o the_o business_n of_o education_n often_o and_o ardent_a exhortation_n and_o inculcation_n of_o thing_n divine_a and_o heavenly_a and_o thus_o a_o unjust_a like_o the_o unjust_a judge_n in_o the_o gospel_n though_o he_o fear_v not_o god_n sincere_o yet_o may_v be_v overcome_v by_o the_o importunity_n of_o his_o father_n friend_n minister_n tutor_n to_o do_v some_o righteous_a act_n this_o seem_v to_o have_v be_v the_o 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devotion_n as_o this_o be_v the_o humillation_n of_o aha●_n 1_o king_n 21._o and_o the_o supplication_n of_o saul_n 1_o sam._n 13._o 11_o 12._o for_o god_n himself_o act_v upon_o man_n only_o from_o without_o they_o be_v far_o from_o produce_v a_o live_a principle_n of_o free_a and_o noble_a religion_n in_o the_o soul_n now_o the_o better_a to_o discern_v this_o force_a and_o violent_a religion_n i_o will_v brief_o describe_v it_o by_o three_o or_o four_o of_o its_o property_n with_o which_o i_o will_v shut_v up_o this_o point_n 1._o this_o force_a religion_n be_v for_o the_o most_o part_n dry_a and_o spiritless_a i_o know_v indeed_o tha●_n fancy_n may_v be_v screw_v up_o to_o a_o high_a pitch_n of_o joy_n and_o frolickness_n so_o as_o to_o raise_v the_o mind_n into_o a_o kind_n of_o a_o rapture_n as_o i_o have_v former_o hint_v in_o my_o disc●orse_n upon_o these_o word_n a_o mere_a artificial_a and_o counter●●it_a christian_a may_v be_v so_o strong_o act_v by_o imagination_n and_o the_o power_n of_o self_n love_n that_o he_o may_v seem_v to_o himself_o to_o be_v full_a of_o god_n than_o the_o sober_a and_o constant_a soul_n you_o may_v see_v how_o the_o hypocritical_a phatis●●●_n sw●ll●●_n with_o ●●●conceit_n glory_v over_o the_o poor_a man_n that_o have_v be_v blind_a but_o now_o see_v more_o than_o all_o they_o joh._n 9_o 34._o thou_o be_v altogether_o bear_v in_o sin_n and_o do_v thou_o teach_v we_o and_o indeed_o over_o the_o whole_a people_n joh._n 7._o 49._o this_o people_n that_o know_v not_o the_o law_n be_v curse_v a_o counterfeit_a christian_a may_v rise_v high_a as_o a_o meteor_n and_o blaze_n much_o as_o a_o comet_n which_o be_v yet_o draw_v up_o by_o mere_a force_n from_o the_o surface_n of_o the_o earth_n or_o water_n and_o as_o to_o the_o external_a and_o visible_a act_n and_o duty_n of_o religion_n which_o depend_v much_o upon_o the_o temper_n and_o constitution_n of_o the_o body_n it_o may_v easy_o be_v conceive_v and_o account_v how_o the_o mimical_a and_o mechanical_a christian_a may_v rise_v high_o in_o these_o and_o be_v more_o zealous_a watchful_a and_o cheerful_a than_o many_o true_o religious_a and_o godly_a man_n as_o have_v great_a power_n and_o quickness_n of_o fancy_n and_o a_o great_a number_n of_o animal_n spirit_n upon_o which_o the_o motion_n and_o action_n of_o the_o body_n do_v main_o depend_v the_o animal_n spirit_n may_v so_o nimble_o serve_v the_o soul_n in_o these_o corporal_a act_n that_o the_o whole_a transaction_n may_v be_v a_o fair_a imitation_n of_o the_o motion_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n and_o one_o will_v very_o think_v there_o be_v a_o gracious_a principle_n in_o the_o soul_n itself_o this_o seem_v to_o be_v notable_o exemplify_v in_o captain_n jehu_n who_o religious_a action_n as_o he_o will_v fain_o have_v they_o
to_o be_v esteem_v 2_o kin._n ●0_n 16._o be_v indeed_o rather_o fury_n than_o zeal_n and_o proceed_v more_o from_o his_o own_o fiery_a spirit_n than_o from_o that_o spirit_n of_o fire_n or_o spirit_n of_o burn_a which_o be_v of_o god_n isa_n 4._o 4._o but_o common_o this_o force_a devotion_n be_v jejune_n and_o dry_a void_a of_o zeal_n and_o warmth_n drive_v on_o heavy_o in_o pursuit_n of_o the_o god_n of_o israel_n as_o pharaoh_n do_v in_o pursuit_n of_o the_o israel_n of_o god_n when_o his_o chariot_n wheel_n be_v take_v off_o exod._n 14._o god_n draw_v the_o soul_n from_o within_o as_o a_o principle_n do_v indeed_o cause_v that_o soul_n to_o run_v after_o he_o cant._n 1._o 4._o but_o you_o know_v the_o motion_n of_o those_o thing_n that_o be_v draw_v by_o external_a force_n be_v common_o heavy_a slow_a and_o languid_a 2._o this_o force_a religion_n be_v penurious_a and_o needy_a something_n the_o slavish_a spirit_a christian_n must_v do_v to_o appease_v a_o angry_a god_n or_o to_o allay_v a_o storm_a conscience_n as_o i_o h●n●ed_v before_o but_o it_o shall_v be_v as_o little_a as_o may_v be_v he_o be_v ready_a to_o g●ndge_n god_n so_o much_o of_o his_o time_n and_o strength_n and_o to_o find_v fault_n that_o sabbath_n come_v so_o thick_a and_o last_v so_o long_o and_o that_o duty_n be_v to_o be_v perform_v s●_n often_o so_o he_o be_v describe_v by_o the_o prophet_n amo●_n 8._o 5._o when_o will_v the_o sabbath_n be_v past_a and_o the_o new_a moon_n go_v but_o yet_o i_o will_v not_o deny_v but_o that_o this_o kind_n of_o religion_n may_v be_v very_o liberal_a and_o expensive_a too_o and_o run_v out_o much_o into_o the_o branch_n of_o external_a duty_n as_o be_v the_o manner_n of_o many_o tree_n that_o bear_v no_o f●uit_n for_o so_o do_v the_o base_a spirit_n of_o the_o pharisee_n who_o often_o fast_v and_o long_o pray_v be_v record_v by_o our_o saviour_n in_o the_o gospel_n but_o not_o with_o approbation_n therefore_o these_o be_v not_o the_o thing_n by_o which_o 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up_o themselves_o entire_o unto_o god_n the_o lord_n pardon_v i_o in_o this_o one_o thing_n cry_v naaman_n so_o they_o in_o this_o or_o that_o let_v god_n hold_v i_o excuse_v the_o slavish_a spirit_v christian_n be_v never_o more_o shrink_v up_o within_o himself_o than_o when_o he_o be_v to_o converse_v with_o god_n indeed_o but_o the_o godly_a soul_n be_v never_o free_a large_a glad_a than_o when_o he_o do_v most_o intimate_o and_o familiar_o converse_v with_o god_n the_o soul_n that_o be_v free_a as_o to_o liberty_n be_v free_a also_o as_o to_o liberality_n and_o expense_n and_o thatnot_v only_o in_o external_a but_o internal_a and_o spiritual_a obedience_n and_o compliance_n with_o the_o will_n of_o god_n he_o give_v himself_o whole_o up_o to_o god_n know_v no_o interest_n of_o his_o own_o keep_v no_o reserve_n for_o himself_o or_o for_o the_o creature_n 3._o this_o force_a religion_n be_v uneven_a as_o depend_v upon_o inconstant_a cause_n as_o land-flood_n that_o have_v no_o spring_n within_o themselves_o vary_v their_o motion_n be_v swift_a and_o slow_a high_a and_o low_a according_a as_o they_o be_v supply_v with_o rain_n even_o so_o these_o man_n motion_n in_o religion_n depend_v upon_o fancy_n for_o the_o most_o part_n than_o which_o nothing_o be_v more_o fickle_a and_o flit_a have_v no_o constancy_n nor_o consistency_n in_o they_o i_o know_v indeed_o that_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o best_a man_n can_v always_o keep_v one_o pace_n nor_o their_o life_n be_v always_o of_o one_o piece_n but_o yet_o they_o be_v never_o willing_o quite_o out_o of_o the_o call_n or_o compass_v of_o religion_n but_o this_o i_o also_o touch_v upon_o former_o therefore_o 4._o the_o force_a religion_n be_v not_o permanent_a the_o meteor_n i_o will_v down_o again_o and_o be_v choke_v in_o the_o earth_n whence_o they_o arise_v take_v away_o the_o weight_n and_o the_o motion_n cease_v take_v away_o 〈◊〉_d and_o joash●lands_n ●lands_z 〈◊〉_d ye●●_n run_v backward_o but_o this_o i_o shall_v speak_v more_o unto_o when_o i_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o last_o property_n of_o religion_n viz._n its_o performance_n chap._n iu._n the_o active_a and_o vigorous_a nature_n of_o true_a religion_n prove_v by_o many_o scriptural_a phrase_n of_o the_o most_o powerful_a importance_n more_o particular_o explain_v in_o three_o thing_n first_o in_o the_o soul●_n continual_a care_n and_o study_v to_o be_v good_a second_o in_o its_o care_n to_o do_v good_a three_o in_o its_o powerful_a and_o incessant_a long_n after_o the_o most_o full_a enjoyment_n of_o god_n in_o all_o which_o the_o cause_n and_o reason_n of_o the_o same_o be_v either_o more_o obscure_o intimate_v or_o open_o assign_v i_o come_v now_o to_o the_o second_o property_n of_o true_a religion_n which_o be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o this_o phrase_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d spring_v up_o or_o leap_v up_o wherein_o the_o activity_n and_o vigorousuass_n of_o it_o be_v describe_v religion_n though_o it_o be_v compare_v to_o water_n yet_o be_v no_o stand_a pool_n of_o water_n but_o a_o well_o of_o water_n spring_v up_o and_o here_o the_o proposition_n that_o i_o shall_v go_v upon_o be_v that_o true_a religion_n be_v active_a and_o vigorous_a it_o be_v no_o lazy_a and_o languid_a thing_n but_o full_a of_o life_n and_o power_n so_o i_o find_v it_o every_o where_o describe_v in_o scripture_n by_o thing_n that_o be_v most_o active_a lively_a vigorous_a operative_a spread_a powerful_a and_o sometime_o even_o by_o motion_n itself_o as_o sin_n be_v in_o scripture_n describe_v by_o death_n and_o darkness_n which_o be_v a_o cessation_n and_o privation_n of_o life_n and_o light_n and_o motion_n so_o religion_n be_v describe_v by_o life_n which_o be_v active_a and_o vigorous_a by_o a_o angelical_a life_n which_o be_v spiritual_a and_o powerful_a yea_o a_o divine_a life_n ephes_n 4._o 18._o which_o be_v as_o i_o may_v say_v most_o lively_a and_o vivacious_a christ_n live_v in_o i_o gal._n 2._o 20._o and_o the_o production_n of_o this_o new_a nature_n in_o the_o soul_n be_v call_v a_o quicken_a ephes_n 2._o 1._o and_o the_o reception_n of_o it_o a_o pass_v from_o death_n unto_o life_n jo●_n 5._o 24._o again_o as_o sin_n and_o wickedness_n be_v describe_v by_o flesh_n which_o be_v sluggish_a and_o unactive_a so_o this_o holy_a principle_n in_o the_o soul_n be_v call_v spirit_n gal._n 5._o 17._o the_o spirit_n lus●eth_v against_o the_o flesh_n yea_o the_o spirit_n of_o power_n 2_o tim._n 1._o 6._o and_o the_o spirit_n of_o life_n rom._n 8._o 2._o the_o law_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o life_n in_o christ_n jesus_n have_v make_v i_o free_a from_o the_o law_n of_o sin_n and_o death_n how_o can_v the_o power_n and_o activity_n of_o any_o principle_n be_v more_o commend_v than_o by_o say_v it_o be_v life_n and_o the_o spirit_n of_o life_n and_o the_o law_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o life_n in_o the_o soul_n which_o have_v make_v i_o sometime_o to_o apply_v those_o word_n of_o the_o prophet_n as_o a_o description_n of_o every_o godly_a soul_n mic._n 3._o 8._o i_o be_o full_a of_o power_n and_o might_n by_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n yea_o further_o the_o holy_a apostle_n seem_v to_o describe_v a_o godly_a principle_n in_o the_o soul_n by_o activity_n and_o motion_n itself_o phil._n 3._o 12_o 13_o 14._o where_o he_o give_v this_o excellent_a character_n of_o himself_o and_o this_o lively_a description_n of_o his_o religious_a disposition_n as_o if_o it_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o activity_n and_o fervour_n i_o follow_v after_o that_o i_o may_v apprehend_v i_o forget_v those_o thing_n that_o be_v behind_o and_o reach_v forth_o unto_o those_o thing_n that_o be_v before_o i_o press_v towards_o the_o mark_n etc._n etc._n it_o be_v too_o much_o
to_o comment_v upon_o those_o p●●a●●s_n of_o like_a importance_n labour_v seek_v strive_v fight_a run_a ●●●st●ing_a pant_a long_a hunger_a thirst_a watch_v and_o many_o other_o which_o the_o holy_a ghost_n make_v us●_n of_o up_o and_o down_o the_o scripture_n to_o express_v the_o active_a industrious_a vigorous_a d●●ge●t_a and_o powerful_a nature_n of_o this_o divine_a principle_n which_o god_n have_v put_v into_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o elect_a the_o stream_n of_o divine_a grace_n which_o flow_v forth_o from_o the_o throne_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o lamb_n into_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n do_v not_o cleanse_v they_o and_o so_o pass_v away_o like_o some_o violent_a land-flood_n that_o wash_v the_o field_n and_o meadow_n and_o so_o leave_v they_o to_o contract_v as_o much_o filth_n as_o ever_o but_o the_o same_o become_v a_o well_o of_o water_n continual_o spring_v up_o bo●ling_a and_o b●bling_v and_o work_v in_o the_o soul_n and_o send_v out_o fresh_a river_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d as_o our_o saviour_n call_v they_o joh._n 7._o 38._o out_o of_o his_o billy_n shall_v flow_v river_n of_o live_a water_n but_o more_o particular_o to_o unfold_v the_o active_a nature_n of_o this_o divine_a principle_n in_o the_o soul_n we_o shall_v consider_v it_o in_o these_o three_o particular_n viz._n as_o it_o be_v st●ll_o conform_v to_o god_n do_v for_o he_o and_o long_v after_o he_o 1._o the_o active_a and_o sprightly_a nature_n of_o true_a godliness_n or_o religion_n plant_v by_o god_n in_o the_o soul_n appear_v and_o show_v itself_o in_o a_o continue_a car●_n and_o study_n to_o be_v good_a to_o conform_v more_z and_o more_o to_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o blessed_a god_n the_o glorious_a patter●●_n of_o all_o perfection_n the_o nature_n of_o god_n be_v infinite_o and_o absolute_o perfect_a be_v the_o only_a rule_n of_o perfection_n to_o the_o creature_n if_o we_o speak_v of_o goodness_n our_o saviour_n tell_v we_o that_o god_n alone_o be_v good_a luke_n 18._o 19_o of_o wisdom_n the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o that_o god_n be_v only_o wise_a 1_o tim._n 1._o 17._o of_o power_n he_o be_v omnipotent_a rev._n 19_o 6._o of_o mercy_n and_o kindness_n he_o be_v love_v itself_o 1_o joh._n 4_o 8._o man_n be_v only_o good_a by_o way_n of_o participation_n from_o god_n and_z in_o a_o way_n of_o assimilation_n to_o he_o so_o that_o though_o good_a man_n may_v be_v imitate_v and_o follow_v yet_o it_o must_v be_v with_o a_o quatinus_fw-la with_o this_o limitation_n as_o far_o forth_o as_o they_o be_v follower_n of_o god_n the_o great_a apostle_n dare_v not_o press_v his_o example_n any_o further_a 1_o cor._n 11._o 1._o be_v you_o follower_n of_o i_o even_o as_o i_o also_o be_o of_o christ_n but_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n be_v infinite_o and_o absolute_o perfect_a be_v to_o be_v ●yed_v and_o imitate_v single_o entire_o universal_o in_o all_o thing_n wherein_o the_o creature_n be_v capable_a of_o follow_v he_o and_o become_v like_a unto_o he_o so_o christian_n be_v require_v to_o look_v up_o unto_o the_o father_n of_o light_n the_o fountain_n of_o all_o perfection_n and_o to_o take_v from_o he_o the_o pattern_n of_o their_o disposition_n and_o conversation_n to_o eye_v he_o continual_o and_o eye_v he_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d to_o derive_v a_o image_n of_o he_o not_o into_o their_o eye_n as_o we_o do_v by_o sensible_a object_n but_o into_o their_o soul_n to_o polish_v and_o frame_v they_o into_o the_o most_o clear_a and_o lively_a resemblance_n of_o he_o that_o be_v in_o the_o language_n of_o the_o scripture_n to_o be_v perfect_a as_o their_o heavenly_a father_n be_v perfect_a ma●_n 5_o 44._o 45_o 48._o to_o be_v holy_a as_o god_n be_v holy_a 1_o per._n 1._o 16._o and_o thus_o the_o genuine_a child_n of_o god_n be_v describe_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n ephes_n 5._o 1._o they_o be_v follower_n of_o god_n this_o be_v the_o short_a but_o the_o sure_a and_o clear_a mark_n that_o can_v be_v give_v of_o a_o good_a man_n a_o follower_n of_o god_n they_o be_v not_o own_v for_o the_o child_n of_o god_n who_o be_v create_v by_o he_o nor_o they_o who_o have_v a_o notional_a knowledge_n of_o he_o who_o profess_v he_o or_o exhibit_v some_o external_a worship_n and_o service_n to_o he_o in_o the_o world_n but_o they_o that_o imitate_v he_o the_o true_a child_n of_o abraham_n be_v not_o those_o that_o be_v descend_v from_o he_o or_o boast_v of_o he_o but_o they_o that_o do_v the_o work_n of_o abraham_n joh._n 8._o 39_o eve●_n so_o be_v they_o only_o the_o offspring_n of_o heaven_n the_o true_a and_o dear_a child_n of_o ●he_n live_v god_n who_o be_v follower_n of_o he_o be_v you_o follower_n of_o god_n ●●_o dear_n child_n a_o godly_a soul_n have_v its_o eye_n open_v to_o behold_v the_o infinite_a beauty_n purity_n and_o perfect_a on_o of_o that_o good_a god_n who_o nature_n be_v the_o very_a fountain_n and_o must_v needs_o then_o be_v the_o rule_n of_o all_o goodness_n present_o come_v to_o undervalue_v all_o create_a excellency_n both_o in_o itself_o and_o all_o the_o world_n beside_o as_o to_o any_o satisfaction_n that_o be_v to_o be_v have_v in_o they_o or_o any_o perfection_n 〈◊〉_d can_v be_v acquire_v by_o they_o and_o 〈◊〉_d endure_v to_o take_v up_o with_o any_o 〈◊〉_d ●od_a or_o live_v by_o any_o low_a r●l●_n than_o god_n himself_o a_o godly_a man_n have_v the_o unclean_a and_o rebellious_a spirit_n cast_v out_o and_o be_v once_o reconcile_v to_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n be_v daily_o labour_v to_o be_v more_o intimate_o unite_v thereunto_o and_o to_o be_v all_o that_o which_o god_n be_v as_o far_o as_o he_o be_v capable_a the_o nature_n of_o god_n be_v infinite_o more_a pure_a and_o perfect_a and_o more_o desirable_a than_o his_o own_o religion_n be_v a_o participation_n of_o life_n from_o he_o who_o be_v life_n itself_o and_o so_o must_v needs_o be_v a_o active_a principle_n spread_v itself_o in_o the_o soul_n and_o cause_v the_o soul_n to_o spread_v itself_o in_o god_n and_o therefore_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n which_o in_o many_o place_n of_o the_o gospel_n i_o take_v to_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o this_o divine_a principle_n in_o the_o soul_n which_o be_v both_o the_o ●●●est_a heaven_n and_o most_o proper_o a_o kingdom_n for_o thereby_o god_n do_v most_o powerful_o reign_v and_o exercise_v his_o sovereignty_n and_o most_o excellent_o display_v and_o manifest_v his_o glory_n in_o the_o world_n be_v compare_v to_o seed_v sow_o in_o good_a ground_n which_o both_o sp●ingeth_v up_o into_o a_o blade_n and_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n to_o mustardseed_n which_o spread_v i●s_a self_n and_o grow_v great_a so_o that_o the_o bird_n of_o the_o air_n may_v lodge_v in_o the_o branch_n thereof_o to_o leaven_v spread_v itself_o through_o the_o whole_a quantity_n of_o meal_n and_o leaven_n the_o whole_a and_o all_o the_o part_n of_o it_o m●tth_n 13._o by_o a_o like_a similitude_n the_o path_n of_o the_o just_a be_v compare_v to_o a_o shine_a light_n who_o glory_n &_o ●ustre_n increase_v continual_o shine_v more_o and_o more_o unto_o the_o perfect_a day_n prov._n 4._o 18._o which_o continual_a grow_v up_o of_o the_o holy_a soul_n into_o god_n be_v excellent_o describe_v by_o the_o apostle_n in_o a_o elegant_a metaphor_n 2_o cor._n 3._o 18._o we_o all_o with_o open_a face_n behold_v as_o in_o a_o glass_n the_o glory_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v change_v into_o the_o same_o image_n from_o glory_n to_o glory_n that_o be_v from_o one_o resemblance_n of_o divine_a glory_n to_o another_o the_o gracious_a soul_n no●_n be_v content_v with_o its_o present_a a●tainments_n and_o have_v in_o its_o eye_n a_o perfect_a and_o absolute_a good_a forget_v that_o which_o be_v behind_o and_o labour_n pray_v strive_n and_o study_n to_o get_v the_o perfection_n of_o god_n more_o clear_o cop●ed_v out_o upon_o itself_o and_o itself_o as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v swallow_v up_o in_o the_o divin●●y_n i_o cove●s_v earnest_o these_o best_a th●●gs_n ●o_o be_v perfect_v ●●_o grace_n and_o holiness_n to_o have_v divine_a character_n more_o fair_a and_o legible_a divine_a impression●_n more_o deep_a and_o lively_a divine_a life_n more_o strong_a and_o powerful_a and_o the_o communicable_a image_n of_o the_o bless_a god_n spread_v quite_o over_o it_o and_o through_o it_o a_o godly_a soul_n be_v not_o content_a to_o receive_v of_o christ_n fullness_n but_o labour_n to_o be_v fill_v with_o the_o fullness_n with_o all_o the_o fullness_n of_o god_n he_o rejoice_v indeed_o that_o he_o have_v receive_v of_o christ_n grace_n for_o grace_n as_o a_o child_n have_v limb_n for_o limb_n with_o his_o father_n but_o this_o his_o joy_n be_v not_o fulfil_v except_o he_o find_v himself_o add_v daily_o some_o cubit_n to_o his_o infant-stature_n nor_o
every_o body_n that_o so_o much_o as_o look_v towards_o it_o and_o by_o all_o mean_v keep_v it_o even_o as_o his_o life_n for_o where_o be_v the_o like_a eager_a and_o ardent_a disposition_n to_o be_v find_v in_o a_o christian_a towards_o god_n himself_o tell_v i_o be_v it_o possible_a for_o a_o man_n that_o vehement_o love_v a_o virgin_n to_o be_v content_a all_o his_o life_n long_o to_o court_v she_o at_o a_o distance_n and_o not_o care_n whether_o ever_o he_o do_v actual_o enjoy_v she_o or_o no_o or_o must_v not_o such_o a_o one_o necessary_o pursue_v a_o matrimonial_a and_o most_o intimate_a union_n with_o she_o let_v we_o now_o confess_v the_o truth_n and_o every_o one_o judge_v himself_o 2._o this_o dull_a and_o earthly_a body_n be_v not_o so_o indifferent_o affect_v towards_o meat_n and_o drink_n and_o rest_n and_o the_o thing_n that_o do_v serve_v its_o necessity_n and_o gratify_v its_o temper_n hunger_n will_v break_v down_o stone_n wall_n and_o thirst_n will_v give_v away_o a_o kingdom_n for_o a_o cup_n of_o water_n sickness_n will_v not_o be_v ease_v by_o good_a word_n nor_o will_v a_o drowsy_a brain_n be_v bribe_v by_o any_o entertainment_n of_o company_n or_o recreation_n no_o no_o the_o necessity_n of_o the_o body_n must_v and_o will_v be_v relieve_v with_o food_n and_o physic_n and_o sleep_v the_o restless_a and_o rage_a appetite_n will_v never_o cease_v call_v and_o cry_v to_o the_o soul_n for_o supply_n till_o it_o arise_v and_o give_v they_o behold_v o_o my_o soul_n consider_v the_o mighty_a and_o incessant_a appetite_n and_o tendency_n of_o the_o body_n after_o sensual_a object_n after_o its_o suitable_a good_a and_o proper_a perfection_n and_o be_v ashamed_a of_o thy_o more_o remiss_a and_o sluggish_a inclination_n towards_o the_o high_a good_a a_o godlike_a perfection_n 3._o no_o creature_n in_o the_o whole_a world_n be_v so_o languid_a slow_a and_o indifferent_a in_o its_o motion_n towards_o its_o proper_a rest_n and_o centre_n how_o easy_a be_v it_o to_o call_v heaven_n and_o earth_n to_o witness_v the_o free_a pleasant_a cheerful_a eager_a address_n of_o every_o creature_n according_a to_o its_o kind_n towards_o its_o own_o centre_n and_o happiness_n the_o sun_n in_o the_o firmament_n rejoice_v to_o run_v its_o race_n and_o will_v not_o stand_v still_o one_o moment_n except_o it_o be_v miraculous_o overpowr_v by_o the_o command_n of_o god_n himself_o the_o river_n seem_v to_o be_v in_o pain_n till_o by_o a_o continue_a flow_v they_o have_v accomplish_v to_o themselves_o a_o kind_n of_o perfection_n and_o be_v swallow_v up_o in_o the_o bosom_n of_o the_o ocean_n except_o they_o be_v benumb_v with_o cold_a or_o otherwise_o overmaster_v and_o retard_v by_o foreign_a violence_n i_o need_v not_o instance_n in_o sensitives_n and_o vegetatives_n all_o which_o you_o know_v with_o a_o natural_a vigour_n and_o activity_n do_v grow_v up_o daily_o towards_o a_o perfect_a state_n and_o stature_n be_v it_o not_o a_o strange_a and_o monstrous_a sight_n to_o see_v a_o stone_n settle_v in_o the_o air_n and_o not_o work_v towards_o its_o centre_n such_o a_o spectacle_n be_v a_o godly_a soul_n settle_v upon_o earth_n and_o not_o endeavour_v a_o near_o and_o more_o intimate_a union_n with_o its_o god_n wherefore_o christian_n either_o cease_v to_o pretend_v that_o you_o have_v choose_v god_n for_o your_o portion_n centre_n happiness_n or_o else_o arise_v and_o cease_v notto_o ●o_z pursue_v and_o accomplish_v the_o close_a union_n and_o the_o most_o familiar_a conjunction_n with_o he_o that_o your_o soul_n be_v capable_a of_o otherwise_o i_o call_v heaven_n and_o earth_n to_o witness_v against_o you_o this_o day_n and_o the_o day_n be_v come_v when_o you_o will_v be_v put_v to_o shame_v by_o the_o whole_a creation_n do_v every_o even_o the_o mean_a creature_n of_o god_n pursue_v its_o end_n and_o perfection_n and_o proper_a happiness_n with_o ardent_a and_o vehement_a long_n and_o shall_v a_o soul_n the_o noble_a of_o all_o creature_n stand_v fold_v up_o itself_o in_o itself_o or_o choke_v up_o its_o wide_a and_o divine_a capacity_n with_o dust_n and_o dirt_n shall_v a_o godly_a soul_n the_o noble_a of_o all_o soul_n hang_v the_o wing_n suspend_v its_o motion_n towards_o the_o supreme_a good_a or_o so_o much_o as_o once_o offer_v to_o faint_v and_o languish_v in_o i●s_n erterprise_n for_o eternal_a life_n tell_v it_o not_o at_o athens_n publish_v it_o not_o at_o rome_n lest_o the_o heathen_a philosopher_n deride_v and_o hiss_v we_o out_o of_o the_o world_n but_o you_o will_v ask_v i_o when_o a_o christian_a may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v sluggish_a and_o unactive_a and_o who_o these_o lazy_a soul_n be_v i_o will_v premise_v two_o thing_n and_o then_o give_v you_o a_o brief_a account_n of_o they_o first_o when_o i_o speak_v of_o a_o sluggish_a and_o spiritless_a religion_n i_o do_v not_o speak_v as_o the_o hot-spirited_n anabaptist_n or_o chiliast_n who_o being_n themselves_o act_v by_o a_o strange_a fervour_n of_o mind_n miscall_v zeal_n be_v wont_a to_o declaim_v against_o all_o man_n as_o cold_a and_o benumb_v in_o their_o spirit_n who_o do_v not_o call_v for_o fire_n from_o heaven_n to_o consume_v all_o dissenter_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o antichristian_a who_o be_v not_o afraid_a to_o reproach_v the_o divine_a holy_a gentle_a yet_o generous_a spirit_n of_o religion_n call_v it_o weak_a womanish_a cowardly_a low_a cold_a and_o i_o know_v not_o what_o these_o man_n i_o believe_v so_o far_o as_o i_o can_v guess_v at_o their_o spirit_n if_o they_o have_v live_v in_o the_o day_n of_o our_o saviour_n and_o have_v behold_v that_o gentle_a meek_a humble_a peaceable_a and_o pacate_v spirit_n which_o do_v infinite_o shine_v forth_o in_o he_o will_v have_v go_v nigh_o to_o have_v reprove_v he_o for_o not_o carry_v on_o his_o own_o kingdom_n with_o sufficient_a vigour_n and_o activity_n if_o not_o have_v judge_v christ_n himself_o to_o be_v much_o antichristian_a i_o hope_v you_o see_v nothing_o in_o all_o my_o discovery_n of_o the_o active_a spirit_n of_o religion_n that_o savour_v of_o such_o a_o fiery_a spirit_n as_o this_o be_v second_o when_o i_o do_v so_o high_o commend_v the_o active_a spirit_n of_o true_a religion_n and_o the_o vigorous_a temper_n of_o true_o religious_a soul_n i_o will_v not_o be_v understand_v as_o if_o i_o think_v all_o such_o soul_n be_v alike_o swift_a or_o that_o any_o such_o soul_n do_v always_o move_v with_o like_a swiftness_n and_o keep_v a_o like_a pace_n towards_o god_n i_o know_v that_o there_o be_v different_a size_n of_o active_a soul_n yea_o and_o different_a degree_n of_o activity_n in_o the_o same_o soul_n as_o may_v be_v see_v cant._n 5._o 3._o compare_v with_o the_o six_o verse_n of_o the_o same_o chapter_n and_o in_o many_o other_o place_n of_o scripture_n but_o yet_o that_o none_o may_v flatter_v and_o deceive_v themselves_o with_o a_o opinion_n of_o their_o be_v what_o indeed_o they_o be_v not_o i_o will_v brief_o discover_v the_o sluggishness_n and_o inactivity_n of_o christian_n in_o a_o few_o particular_n i_o pray_v take_v it_o not_o ill_a though_o the_o great_a part_n of_o christian_n be_v find_v guilty_a for_o that_o be_v no_o other_o than_o what_o christ_n himself_o have_v prophesy_v 1._o the_o active_a spirit_n of_o religion_n in_o the_o soul_n will_v not_o suffer_v man_n to_o take_v up_o their_o rest_n in_o a_o constant_a course_n of_o external_a performance_n and_o they_o be_v but_o slothful_a soul_n that_o do_v place_n their_o religion_n in_o any_o thing_n without_o they_o by_o external_a performance_n i_o mean_v not_o only_o open_a and_o public_a and_o solemn_a service_n but_o even_o the_o most_o private_a and_o secret_a performance_n that_o be_v in_o and_o by_o the_o body_n and_o ab_fw-la extra_fw-la to_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v not_o possible_a that_o a_o soul_n shall_v be_v happy_a in_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v extrinsical_a to_o itself_o no_o not_o in_o god_n himself_o if_o we_o consider_v he_o only_o as_o something_o without_o the_o soul_n the_o devil_n himself_o know_v and_o see_v much_o of_o god_n without_o he_o but_o have_v no_o communication_n of_o a_o divine_a nature_n or_o life_n be_v perfect_o estrange_v from_o the_o life_n of_o god_n he_o remain_v perfect_o miserable_a i_o doubt_v it_o be_v a_o common_a deceit_n in_o the_o world_n man_n toil_n and_o labour_n in_o bodily_a act_n of_o worship_n and_o religion_n in_o a_o slavish_a and_o mercenary_a manner_n and_o think_v with_o those_o labourer_n in_o the_o parable_n that_o at_o the_o end_n they_o must_v needs_o receive_v great_a wage_n and_o much_o thanks_o because_o they_o have_v bear_v the_o heat_n and_o burden_n of_o the_o day_n alas_o that_o ever_o man_n shall_v so_o gross_o mistake_v the_o nature_n of_o religion_n as_o to_o sink_v it_o into_o a_o few_o bodily_a
act_n and_o carcase-service_n and_o to_o think_v it_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o run_v the_o round_a of_o duty_n and_o ordinance_n and_o a_o keep_n up_o a_o constant_a set_v and_o course_n of_o action_n such_o a_o external_a legal_a righteousness_n the_o apostle_n paul_n after_o his_o conversion_n can_v not_o take_v up_o with_o but_o count_v it_o all_o loss_n and_o dung_n in_o comparison_n of_o that_o godlike_a righteousness_n which_o be_v now_o bring_v into_o his_o soul_n that_o inward_a and_o spiritual_a conformity_n to_o christ_n which_o be_v now_o wrought_v in_o he_o phil._n 3._o 9_o 10._o i_o know_v indeed_o that_o man_n will_v be_v loath_a to_o confess_v that_o they_o place_v their_o religion_n in_o any_o thing_n without_o they_o but_o i_o pray_v consider_v serious_o wherein_o you_o excel_v other_o man_n save_v only_o in_o pray_v or_o hear_v now_o and_o then_o or_o some_o other_o outward_a act_n and_o judge_v yourselves_o by_o your_o nature_n and_o not_o by_o your_o action_n 2._o the_o active_a spirit_n of_o religion_n where_o it_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n will_v not_o suffer_v man_n to_o take_v up_o their_o rest_n in_o a_o mere_a pardon_n of_o sin_n and_o they_o be_v but_o slothful_a soul_n that_o can_v be_v so_o satisfy_v bless_a be_v the_o man_n indeed_o who_o inquity_n be_v pardon_v psal_n 32_o 1_o 2._o but_o if_o we_o can_v suppose_v a_o soul_n to_o be_v acquit_v of_o the_o guilt_n of_o all_o sin_n and_o yet_o to_o lie_v bind_v under_o the_o dominion_n of_o lust_n and_o passion_n and_o to_o live_v without_o god_n in_o the_o world_n he_o be_v yet_o far_o from_o true_a blessedness_n a_o real_a hell_n and_o misery_n will_v arise_v out_o of_o the_o very_a bowel_n of_o sin_n and_o wickedness_n though_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o reserve_n of_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n in_o the_o world_n to_o come_v it_o be_v utter_o impossible_a that_o a_o soul_n shall_v be_v happy_a out_o of_o god_n though_o it_o have_v the_o great_a security_n imaginable_a that_o it_o shall_v never_o suffer_v any_o thing_n from_o he_o the_o high_a care_n and_o ambition_n indeed_o of_o a_o slavish_a and_o mercenary_a spirit_n be_v to_o be_v secure_v from_o the_o wrath_n and_o vengeance_n of_o god_n but_o the_o breathe_n of_o the_o ingenuous_a and_o holy_a soul_n be_v after_o a_o divine_a life_n and_o godlike_a perfection_n this_o right_a gracious_a tempe_n you_o may_v see_v in_o david_n psal_n 51._o 9_o 10_o 11_o 12._o which_o be_v also_o the_o temper_n of_o every_o true_o religious_a soul_n 3._o the_o active_a spirit_n of_o religion_n where_o it_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n will_v not_o suffer_v man_n to_o take_v up_o their_o rest_n in_o mere_a innocency_n freedom_n from_o sin_n and_o they_o be_v slothful_a soul_n that_o can_v count_v it_o happiness_n enough_o to_o be_v harmless_a i_o doubt_v man_n be_v much_o mistake_v about_o holiness_n it_o be_v more_o than_o mere_a innocency_n or_o freedom_n from_o the_o guilt_n or_o power_n of_o sin_n it_o be_v not_o a_o negative_a thing_n there_o be_v something_o active_a noble_a divine_a powerful_a in_o true_a religion_n a_o soul_n that_o right_o understand_v its_o own_o penury_n and_o self-insufficiency_n and_o the_o emptiness_n and_o meanness_n of_o all_o creature-good_a can_v possible_o take_v up_o its_o rest_n or_o place_v its_o happiness_n in_o any_o thing_n but_o in_o a_o real_a participation_n of_o god_n himself_o and_o therefore_o be_v continual_o make_v out_o towards_o that_o god_n from_o who_o it_o come_v and_o be_v labour_v to_o unite_v itself_o more_o and_o more_o unto_o he_o let_v a_o low-spirited_a fleshly_a mind_v pharisee_fw-mi take_v up_o with_o a_o negative_a holiness_n and_o happiness_n as_o he_o do_v luke_o 18._o 11._o god_n i_o thank_v thou_o that_o i_o be_o not_o so_o and_o so_o a_o noble_a and_o hie-spirited_a christian_n can_v take_v up_o his_o rest_n in_o any_o negation_n or_o freedom_n from_o sin_n every_o godly_a soul_n be_v not_o so_o learned_a indeed_o as_o to_o be_v able_a to_o describe_v the_o nature_n and_o proper_a perfection_n of_o a_o soul_n and_o to_o tell_v you_o how_o the_o happiness_n of_o a_o soul_n consist_v not_o in_o quiet_a but_o in_o actu_fw-la &_o vigore_fw-la not_o in_o cessation_n and_o rest_n as_o the_o happiness_n of_o a_o stone_n do_v but_o in_o life_n and_o power_n and_o vigour_n as_o the_o happiness_n of_o god_n himself_o do_v but_o yet_o the_o spirit_n of_o true_a religion_n be_v so_o excellent_a and_o powerful_a in_o every_o godly_a soul_n that_o it_o be_v still_o carry_v it_o to_o the_o full_a enjoyment_n of_o a_o high_a good_a and_o the_o soul_n do_v find_v and_o feel_v within_o itself_o though_o it_o can_v discourse_v philosophical_o of_o these_o thing_n that_o though_o it_o be_v free_a from_o all_o disturbance_n of_o sin_n and_o affliction_n in_o the_o world_n yet_o still_o it_o want_v some_o supreme_a and_o possible_a good_a to_o make_v it_o complete_o happy_a and_o so_o bend_v all_o its_o power_n thi●_n herward_o this_o be_v the_o description_n which_o you_o will_v everywhere_o find_v make_v in_o scripture_n of_o the_o true_a spirit_n of_o holiness_n which_o have_v always_o something_o positive_a and_o divine_a in_o it_o as_o is●_n 1._o 16_o 17._o cease_v to_o do_v evil_a learn_v to_o do_v well_o and_o ephes_n 4._o 22_o 24._o put_v off_o the_o old_a man_n put_v on_o that_o new_a man_n which_o after_o god_n be_v create_v in_o righteousness_n and_o true_a holiness_n and_o according_o he_o true_o godly_a soul_n to_o use_v the_o apostle_n word_n though_o he_o know_v nothing_o by_o himself_o yet_o do_v not_o thereby_o count_v himself_o happy_a 4._o the_o active_a spirit_n of_o true_a religion_n wh●re_v it_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n will_v not_o suffer_v man_n to_o take_v up_o their_o rest_n in_o some_o measure_n of_o grace_n receive_v and_o so_o far_o as_o the_o soul_n do_v so_o it_o be_v sluggish_a and_o less_o active_a than_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v this_o indeed_o oft_o time_n come_v to_o pass_v when_o the_o soul_n be_v under_o some_o distemper_n of_o proud_a selfishness_n earthly-mindedness_a or_o the_o like_a or_o be_v less_o apprehensive_a of_o its_o object_n and_o happiness_n as_o it_o seem_v to_o have_v be_v the_o case_n of_o the_o spouse_n cant._n 5._o 3._o some_o such_o faint_a fit_n languish_n suffering_n in_o sensibleness_n must_v be_v allow_v to_o be_v in_o the_o godly_a soul_n during_o its_o imprison_a and_o imperfect_a state_n but_o we_o must_v not_o judge_v ourselves_o by_o any_o present_a distemper_n or_o infirmity_n the_o nature_n of_o religion_n when_o it_o act_v the_o soul_n right_o and_o powerful_o be_v to_o carry_v it_o after_o a_o more_o lively_a resemblance_n of_o god_n which_o be_v the_o most_o proper_a and_o excellent_a enjoyment_n of_o he_o a_o mind_n right_o and_o actual_o sound_n be_v most_o sick_a of_o love_n and_o the_o nature_n of_o love_n be_v not_o to_o know_v when_o it_o be_v near_o enough_o to_o its_o object_n but_o still_a to_o long_o after_o the_o most_o perfect_a conjunction_n with_o it_o this_o well_o of_o water_n if_o it_o be_v not_o violent_o obstruct_v for_o a_o time_n be_v ever_o spring_v up_o till_o it_o be_v swallow_v up_o in_o the_o ocean_n of_o divine_a love_n and_o grace_n the_o soul_n that_o be_v right_o acquaint_v with_o itself_o and_o its_o god_n see_v something_o still_o want_v in_o itself_o and_o to_o be_v enjoy_v in_o he_o which_o make_v it_o that_o it_o can_v be_v at_o rest_n but_o be_v still_o spring_v up_o into_o he_o till_o it_o come_v to_o the_o measure_n of_o the_o stature_n of_o the_o fullness_n of_o its_o lord_n in_o this_o holy_a love_a longing_n strive_v active_a temper_n we_o find_v the_o great_a apostle_n phil._n 3._o 12_o 13_o 14._o and_o by_o how_o much_o the_o more_o of_o divine_a grace_n any_o soul_n have_v drink_v in_o the_o more_o thirsty_a be_v it_o after_o much_o more_o 5._o the_o active_a spirit_n of_o true_a religion_n where_o it_o be_v powerful_o seat_v in_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n will_v not_o suffer_v they_o to_o settle_v into_o a_o love_n of_o this_o animal_n life_n nor_o indeed_o suffer_v they_o to_o be_v content_a to_o live_v for_o ever_o in_o such_o a_o kind_n of_o body_n as_o this_o and_o that_o soul_n be_v in_o a_o degree_n lazy_a and_o slothful_a that_o do_v not_o desire_v to_o depart_v and_o be_v with_o his_o lord_n the_o godly_a soul_n eye_v god_n as_o his_o perfect_a and_o full_a happiness_n and_o find_v that_o his_o be_v in_o the_o body_n do_v separate_v he_o from_o god_n keep_v he_o in_o a_o poor_a and_o imperfect_a state_n and_o hinder_v his_o blissful_a communion_n with_o the_o high_a good_a groan_v within_o itself_o that_o mortality_n be_v swallow_v up_o of_o life_n with_o the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 5._o 4._o i_o
know_v not_o how_o much_o but_o i_o think_v he_o have_v not_o very_o much_o of_o god_n neither_o fight_n of_o he_o nor_o love_n of_o he_o that_o can_v be_v content_a to_o abide_v for_o ever_o in_o this_o imperfect_a mix_v low_a state_n and_o never_o be_v perfect_v in_o the_o full_a enjoyment_n of_o he_o and_o it_o seem_v that_o they_o in_o who_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v right_o predominant_a potent_a flourish_a do_v also_o look_v earnest_o for_o the_o mercy_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n unto_o eternal_a life_n judas_n 2._o without_o doubt_n they_o ought_v to_o do_v 2_o pe●_n 3._o 12._o what_o manner_n of_o person_n ought_v you_o to_o be_v in_o all_o holy_a conversation_n and_o godliness_n look_v for_o and_o haste_v unto_o the_o come_n of_o the_o day_n of_o god_n let_v this_o suffice_v by_o way_n of_o general_a reprehension_n 2._o more_o particular_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o active_a nature_n of_o true_a religion_n may_v well_o serve_v to_o correct_v a_o mistake_n about_o that_o noble_a grace_n of_o faith_n how_o dishonourable_o do_v some_o speak_v of_o this_o excellent_a and_o powerful_a grace_n when_o they_o make_v it_o to_o be_v a_o slothful_a passive_a thing_n a_o idle_a kind_n of_o wait_v or_o a_o melancholic_a sit_v still_o which_o indeed_o and_o in_o truth_n be_v life_n and_o power_n be_v not_o mistake_v in_o so_o high_a and_o eminent_a a_o grace_n true_a faith_n do_v not_o only_o accept_v the_o impute_a righteousness_n of_o christ_n for_o justification_n but_o by_o a_o lively_a dependence_n upon_o god_n drink_v in_o divine_a influence_n and_o eager_o suck_v in_o grace_n and_o virtue_n and_o life_n from_o the_o fountain_n of_o grace_n for_o its_o more_o perfect_a sanctification_n and_o for_o this_o cause_n i_o think_v a_o purify_n virtue_n be_v ascribe_v to_o it_o act._n 15._o 9_o faith_n be_v not_o a_o lazy_a languid_a thing_n content_a to_o wait_v for_o salvation_n till_o the_o world_n to_o come_v but_o it_o be_v even_o now_o gasp_v after_o it_o and_o accomplish_v it_o too_o in_o a_o way_n of_o mortification_n self-denial_n and_o grow_v up_o in_o god_n it_o be_v not_o content_a to_o be_v a_o candidate_n wait_v for_o life_n and_o happiness_n but_o be_v actual_o draw_v down_o heaven_n into_o the_o soul_n attract_v god_n to_o itself_o suck_v in_o participation_n of_o divine_a grace_n and_o image_n into_o the_o soul_n its_o motto_n be_v that_o of_o the_o famous_a painter_n nulla_fw-la dies_fw-la sine_fw-la lineâ_fw-la it_o belong_v to_o find_v some_o divine_a lineament_n some_o line_n of_o god_n image_n draw_v upon_o the_o soul_n daily_o faith_n be_v a_o give_v grace_n as_o well_o as_o receive_n it_o give_v up_o the_o whole_a soul_n to_o god_n and_o be_v trouble_v that_o it_o can_v give_v he_o no_o more_o it_o bind_v over_o the_o soul_n afresh_o to_o god_n every_o day_n and_o be_v trouble_v that_o it_o can_v bind_v it_o no_o fast_o nor_o close_o to_o he_o the_o believe_a soul_n be_v weary_v because_o of_o muderer_n murder_v love_n lust_n care_n earthly_a pleasure_n and_o call_v mighty_o upon_o christ_n to_o come_v and_o take_v vengeance_n upon_o they_o it_o be_v weary_v because_o of_o those_o robber_n that_o be_v daily_o steal_v away_o precious_a time_n and_o affection_n from_o god_n which_o be_v due_a unto_o he_o and_o call_v upon_o christ_n to_o come_v and_o scourge_v these_o thief_n these_o buyer_n and_o seller_n out_o of_o his_o own_o temple_n in_o a_o word_n the_o godly_a soul_n be_v active_a and_o faith_n be_v the_o very_a life_n and_o action_n of_o the_o soul_n itself_o last_o let_v i_o exhort_v all_o christian_n from_o hence_o to_o be_v zealous_a to_o be_v fervent_a in_o spirit_n serve_v the_o lord_n and_o long_v after_o he_o stir_v up_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o you_o quench_v not_o i._n e._n blow_v up_o inflame_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o you_o awake_v christian_a soul_n out_o of_o thy_o lethargy_n and_o rejoice_v as_o the_o sun_n to_o run_v the_o race_n that_o be_v set_v before_o thou_o and_o as_o a_o mighty_a man_n refresh_v with_o wine_n to_o fight_v thy_o spiritual_a battle_n against_o the_o army_n of_o uncircumcised_a profane_a and_o earthly_a concupiscence_n love_n and_o passion_n eye_n god_n as_o your_o centre_n the_o enjoyment_n of_o he_o as_o the_o happiness_n and_o full_a conformity_n to_o he_o as_o the_o perfection_n of_o your_o soul_n and_o then_o say_v awake_v arise_v o_o my_o soul_n and_o hide_v not_o thy_o hand_n in_o thy_o bosom_n but_o throw_v thyself_o into_o the_o very_a heart_n and_o bosom_n of_o god_n lay_v hold_v upon_o eternal_a life_n again_o observe_v how_o all_o thing_n in_o the_o world_n pursue_v their_o several_a perfection_n with_o unwearied_a and_o impatient_a long_n and_o say_v come_v my_o soul_n and_o do_v thou_o likewise_o converse_v not_o with_o god_n so_o much_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o a_o law_n giver_n but_o as_o with_o love_n itself_o nor_o with_o his_o command_n as_o have_v authority_n in_o they_o but_o as_o have_v goodness_n and_o life_n and_o sweetness_n in_o they_o again_o consider_v your_o poverty_n as_o creature_n and_o how_o utter_o impossible_a it_o be_v for_o you_o to_o be_v happy_a in_o yourselves_o and_o say_v arise_v o_o my_o soul_n from_o off_o this_o weak_a and_o totter_a foundation_n and_o build_v thyself_o up_o in_o god_n cease_v pinch_v thyself_o within_o the_o strait_n of_o self-sufficiency_n and_o come_v stretch_v thyself_o upon_o infinite_a goodness_n and_o fullness_n again_o poor_a not_o upon_o your_o attainment_n do_v not_o sit_v brood_v upon_o your_o present_a accomplishment_n but_o forget_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v behind_o and_o say_v awake_v o_o my_o soul_n there_o be_v yet_o infinite_o much_o more_o in_o god_n pursue_v after_o he_o for_o it_o till_o thou_o have_v get_v as_o much_o as_o a_o create_v be_v be_v capable_a to_o receive_v of_o the_o divine_a nature_n in_o a_o word_n take_v heed_n you_o live_v not_o by_o the_o low_a example_n which_o thing_n keep_v many_o in_o a_o dwindle_a state_n all_o their_o day_n but_o by_o the_o high_a read_v over_o the_o spouse_n her_o temper_n sick_a of_o love_n david_n temper_n wait_v for_o god_n more_o than_o they_o that_o watch_v for_o the_o morning_n break_v in_o heart_n for_o the_o longing_n that_o he_o have_v to_o the_o lord_n and_o say_v arise_v o_o my_o soul_n and_o live_v as_o high_a as_o the_o high_a it_o be_v no_o fault_n to_o desire_v to_o be_v as_o good_a as_o holy_a as_o happy_a as_o a_o angel_n of_o god_n and_o thus_o o_o my_o soul_n open_v thy_o mouth_n wide_a and_o god_n have_v promise_v to_o fill_v thou_o chap._n vi_o that_o religion_n be_v a_o last_a and_o persevere_v principle_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n prove_v by_o several_a scripture_n the_o ground_n of_o this_o perseverance_n assign_v first_o negative_o it_o do_v not_o arise_v from_o the_o absolute_a inamissability_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o creature_n nor_o from_o the_o strength_n of_o man_n freewill_n second_o affirmative_o the_o grace_n of_o election_n can_v fail_v the_o grace_n of_o justification_n be_v neither_o suspend_v nor_o violate_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n be_v everlasting_a the_o mediator_n of_o this_o covenant_n live_v for_o ever_o the_o promise_n of_o it_o immutable_a the_o righteousness_n bring_v in_o by_o the_o messiab_n everlasting_a a_o objection_n answer_v concern_v a_o regenerate_a man_n willing_a his_o own_o apostasy_n a_o objection_n answer_v draw_v from_o the_o fall_v of_o saint_n in_o scripture_n as_o also_o from_o those_o scripture_n that_o seem_v to_o imply_v a_o man_n fall_v away_o a_o discovery_n of_o counterfeit_a religion_n and_o the_o shameful_a apostasy_n of_o false_a professor_n a_o encouragement_n to_o all_o holy_a diligence_n from_o the_o consideration_n of_o this_o doctrine_n the_o rather_o that_o we_o may_v stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o those_o that_o false_o affirm_v that_o the_o same_o be_v prejudicial_a to_o true_a godliness_n i_o come_v now_o to_o the_o three_o property_n of_o true_a religion_n contain_v in_o these_o word_n and_o that_o be_v the_o perseverance_n of_o it_o and_o here_o the_o foundation_n of_o my_o follow_a discourse_n shall_v be_v this_o proposition_n true_a religion_n be_v a_o last_a and_o persevere_v principle_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o good_a man_n it_o be_v say_v of_o the_o hypocritical_a jew_n that_o their_o goodness_n be_v as_o the_o early_a dew_n that_o soon_o pass_v away_o hos_fw-la 6._o 4._o but_o that_o principle_n of_o true_a goodness_n which_o god_n plant_v in_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o people_n be_v compare_v to_o a_o well_o of_o water_n evermore_o send_v forth_o fresh_a stream_n and_o incessant_o spring_v up_o towards_o god_n himself_o our_o saviour_n compare_v hypocritical_a professor_n to_o seed_v sow_o upon_o stony_a ground_n that_o spring_v up_o
do_v also_o understand_v that_o they_o must_v accomplish_v it_o in_o a_o way_n of_o dutiful_a diligence_n and_o watchful_a willingness_n and_o if_o any_o grow_v profane_a and_o licentious_a and_o apostatise_v from_o the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n which_o they_o have_v know_v it_o be_v a_o evident_a argument_n to_o they_o that_o they_o be_v no_o saint_n and_o then_o what_o will_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o perseverance_n of_o saint_n avail_v they_o chap._n vii_o religion_n consider_v in_o the_o consequent_a of_o not_o thirst_v the_o phrase_n explain_v two_o way_n both_o result_a into_o the_o same_o general_a truth_n viz._n that_o divine_a grace_n give_v a_o solid_a satisfaction_n to_o the_o soul_n this_o aphorism_n confirm_v by_o some_o scripture_n and_o large_o explain_v in_o six_o proposition_n the_o first_o that_o there_o be_v a_o rage_a thirst_n in_o every_o soul_n of_o man_n after_o some_o ultimate_a and_o satisfactory_a good_a the_o second_o that_o every_o natural_a man_n thirst_v principal_o after_o happiness_n in_o the_o creature_n the_o three_o that_o no_o man_n can_v find_v that_o soul-filling_a satisfaction_n in_o any_o creature_n enjoyment_n which_o every_o natural_a man_n principal_o seek_v therein_o this_o prosecute_v in_o two_o particular_n the_o four_o that_o grace_n take_v not_o away_o the_o soul_n thirst_v after_o happiness_n but_o much_o inflame_v it_o the_o reason_n assign_v the_o five_o that_o the_o godly_a soul_n thirst_v no_o more_o after_o rest_n in_o any_o worldly_a thing_n but_o in_o god_n alone_o this_o prosecute_v in_o both_o the_o branch_n of_o it_o in_o the_o former_a more_o large_o where_o enquiry_n be_v make_v how_o far_o a_o godly_a man_n may_v be_v say_v to_o thirst_v after_o the_o creature_n and_o answer_v in_o four_o particular_n the_o latter_a brief_o touch_v upon_o the_o six_o that_o in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o god_n the_o soul_n be_v at_o rest_n and_o this_o in_o a_o double_a sense_n viz._n so_o as_o that_o it_o be_v perfect_o match_v with_o its_o object_n two_o thing_n note_v for_o the_o clear_n of_o this_o second_o so_o satisfy_v as_o to_o have_v joy_n and_o pleasure_n in_o he_o a_o double_a account_n give_v of_o that_o joy_n the_o chapter_n expire_v in_o a_o passionate_a lamentation_n take_v up_o over_o the_o levity_n and_o earthliness_n of_o christian_a mind_n john_n 4._o 14._o whosoever_o drink_v of_o the_o water_n that_o i_o shall_v give_v he_o shall_v never_o thirst_v etc._n etc._n hitherto_o we_o have_v take_v a_o view_n of_o true_a religion_n as_o it_o stand_v describe_v in_o this_o pregnant_a text_n by_o its_o original_n nature_n and_o property_n we_o be_v now_o to_o consider_v it_o in_o the_o certain_a and_o genuine_a consequent_a of_o it_o and_o that_o be_v in_o one_o word_n affirmative_o satisfaction_n or_o if_o you_o will_v negative_o not_o thirst_v for_o so_o it_o be_v in_o our_o saviour_n phrase_n whosoever_o drink_v of_o the_o water_n that_o i_o shall_v give_v he_o shall_v never_o thirst_v while_o i_o address_v myself_o to_o the_o explication_n of_o this_o phrase_n i_o suppose_v i_o need_v not_o be_v so_o exact_a and_o curious_a as_o to_o tell_v you_o in_o order_n with_o a_o certain_a kind_n of_o scholastical_a gravity_n first_o what_o be_v nor_o and_o then_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o it_o for_o i_o presume_v no_o body_n will_v dream_v of_o a_o corporeal_a or_o gross_a kind_n of_o thirst_v to_o be_v mean_v here_o grace_n do_v no_o more_o quench_v the_o thirst_n of_o the_o body_n than_o elementary_a water_n can_v relieve_v the_o pant_a of_o the_o soul_n nay_o he_o himself_o be_v subject_a to_o this_o gross_a kind_n of_o thirst_n who_o give_v to_o other_o the_o water_n whereof_o if_o they_o drink_v they_o shall_v never_o thirst_v more_o if_o it_o be_v understand_v of_o a_o spiritual_a thirst_n yet_o i_o suppose_v i_o need_v not_o to_o tell_v you_o neither_o that_o then_o it_o must_v not_o be_v understand_v absolute_o for_o it_o can_v possible_o be_v that_o the_o thirst_n of_o a_o soul_n shall_v be_v perfect_o allay_v till_o all_o its_o faculty_n be_v fill_v up_o to_o the_o brim_n of_o their_o respective_a capacity_n which_o will_v never_o be_v until_o it_o be_v swallow_v up_o in_o the_o infinite_a and_o unbounded_a ocean_n of_o the_o supreme_a good_a but_o i_o conceive_v we_o may_v fair_o come_v to_o the_o meaning_n of_o this_o phrase_n never_o thirst_v either_o by_o add_v or_o distinguish_v first_o then_o let_v we_o supply_v the_o sentence_n thus_o whosoever_o drink_v of_o the_o water_n that_o i_o shall_v give_v he_o shall_v never_o thirst_v after_o any_o other_o water_n there_o be_v no_o worldly_a liquor_n can_v be_v so_o accommodate_v or_o attemper_v to_o the_o palate_n as_o to_o give_v it_o a_o universal_a satisfaction_n so_o as_o that_o a_o man_n shall_v be_v perfect_o mortify_v to_o all_o variety_n but_o this_o heavenly_a water_n which_o our_o saviour_n treat_v of_o here_o be_v so_o fit_v to_o the_o palate_n of_o spirit_n and_o bring_v such_o satisfaction_n along_o with_o it_o that_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v make_v to_o drink_v of_o it_o do_v supercede_v its_o chase_n of_o all_o other_o delight_n count_v all_o other_o water_n but_o a_o filthy_a and_o stink_a puddle_n thirst_v no_o more_o after_o any_o other_o thing_n neither_o through_o necessity_n nor_o for_o variety_n the_o more_o the_o soul_n drink_v of_o this_o water_n indeed_o the_o more_o it_o thirst_v after_o full_a measure_n and_o large_a potion_n of_o the_o same_o and_o do_v not_o only_o suck_v in_o divine_a virtue_n and_o influence_n but_o even_o belong_v to_o be_v itself_o suck_v up_o in_o the_o divinity_n as_o we_o shall_v see_v further_o in_o the_o procedure_n of_o this_o discourse_n but_o its_o thirst_n after_o all_o create_v good_a all_o the_o water_n of_o the_o cistern_n be_v hereby_o extinguish_v or_o at_o least_o master_v and_o mortify_v or_o second_o by_o distinguish_v upon_o thirst_n the_o sense_n of_o the_o phrase_n will_v be_v clear_o this_o whosoever_o drink_v of_o the_o water_n that_o i_o shall_v give_v he_o shall_v never_o be_v at_o a_o loss_n more_o never_o be_v to_o seek_v any_o more_o never_o be_v uncertain_a or_o unsatisfied_a as_o to_o his_o main_a happiness_n or_o supreme_a object_n be_v shall_v not_o rove_v and_o range_v up_o and_o down_o the_o world_n in_o a_o unfixedness_n and_o suspense_n any_o more_o shall_v not_o run_v up_o and_o down_o to_o seek_v satisfaction_n and_o rest_n any_o more_o from_o a_o internal_a unsatisfiedness_n of_o the_o body_n spring_v violent_a and_o restless_a motion_n and_o run_n up_o and_o down_o by_o which_o thirst_n be_v contract_v so_o that_o by_o a_o metonymy_a thirst_n come_v to_o be_v use_v for_o unsatisfiedness_n which_o be_v the_o remote_a cause_n of_o it_o and_o by_o a_o metaphor_n the_o same_o phrase_n come_v to_o be_v apply_v to_o the_o soul_n i_o suppose_v i_o be_o warrant_v by_o the_o sacred_a style_n thus_o to_o interpret_v especial_o by_o the_o use_n and_o explication_n of_o the_o phrase_n in_o jer._n 2._o 25._o where_o the_o prophet_n intimate_v that_o by_o thirst_n be_v to_o be_v mean_v a_o restless_a and_o discontent_a run_v up_o and_o down_o to_o seek_v satisfaction_n withhold_v thy_o foot_n from_o be_v unshod_a and_o thy_o throat_n from_o thirst_n which_o two_o phrase_n be_v of_o the_o same_o importance_n and_o signify_v no_o more_o than_o cease_v from_o gad_v after_o your_o idol_n and_o that_o this_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o that_o thirst_a appear_v by_o the_o answer_n that_o the_o wilful_a and_o desperate_a people_n make_v in_o the_o sequel_n of_o the_o verse_n for_o instead_o of_o say_v no_o but_o we_o will_v thirst_v they_o cry_v no_o but_o after_o they_o will_v i_o go_v to_o thirst_v then_o be_v in_o a_o unsatisfiedness_n and_o spiritual_a disquiet_n to_o range_v up_o and_o down_o seek_v something_o wherein_o ultimate_o to_o acquiesce_v and_o in_o this_o sense_n it_o be_v most_o true_a what_o our_o lord_n here_o pronounce_v that_o whosoever_o drink_v of_o the_o water_n that_o i_o shall_v give_v he_o shall_v never_o thirst_v of_o which_o thirst_n that_o famous_a proclamation_n of_o our_o saviour_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v joh._n 7._o 37._o if_o any_o man_n thirst_n let_v he_o come_v unto_o i_o and_o drink_n in_o which_o place_n also_o we_o must_v necessry_o understand_v what_o be_v here_o express_v that_o then_o he_o shall_v never_o thirst_v more_o it_o matter_n not_o much_o by_o which_o of_o these_o two_o way_n we_o explain_v the_o phrase_n here_o of_o not_o thirst_v for_o according_a to_o either_o of_o they_o it_o will_v result_v into_o this_o theological_a maxim_n viz._n that_o divine_a grace_n or_o true_a christian_a religion_n give_v a_o real_a and_o solid_a satisfaction_n to_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v principled_a with_o it_o this_o will_v appear_v plain_a though_o we_o apply_v
wither_v the_o choice_a flower_n in_o nature_n garden_n that_o they_o have_v now_o no_o more_o form_n nor_o comeliness_n beauty_n or_o fragrancy_n as_o to_o deserve_v to_o be_v desire_v she_o have_v taste_v the_o pure_a and_o perfect_a sweetness_n of_o the_o fountain_n which_o have_v so_o embitter_v all_o cistern-water_n that_o she_o find_v no_o more_o thirsting_n in_o herself_o after_o they_o which_o be_v chat_v which_o our_o saviour_n promise_v here_o shall_v never_a christ_n a_o godly_a soul_n can_v posfible_o be_v put_v off_o with_o any_o thing_n short_a of_o god_n give_v he_o his_o god_n or_o he_o die_v give_v he_o never_o so_o much_o fair_a usage_n in_o the_o world_n never_o so_o much_o of_o earthly_a accommodation_n they_o be_v not_o accommodate_v to_o his_o want_n and_o thirst_v if_o they_o have_v not_o that_o god_n in_o they_o out_o of_o who_o all_o worldly_a pleasure_n be_v even_o irksome_a and_o unpleasant_a and_o all_o fleshly_a case_n be_v tedious_a and_o painsul_n creature-employment_n be_v but_o a_o weatisome_a crudgery_n to_o a_o soul_n that_o be_v acquaint_v with_o the_o work_n of_o angel_n and_o creature-enjoyment_n in_o themselves_o consider_v be_v very_o insignificant_a if_o not_o burdensome_a to_o a_o mind_n that_o be_v feel_o possess_v of_o the_o chief_a good_a but_o here_o it_o will_v be_v seasonable_a to_o take_v into_o consideration_n a_o grand_a enquiry_n viz._n whether_o a_o godly_a man_n may_v not_o be_v say_v in_o some_o sense_n to_o desire_v the_o creature_n and_o how_o far_o such_o a_o person_n may_v be_v say_v to_o thirst_n after_o it_o this_o i_o shall_v speak_v to_o as_o brief_o and_o yet_o as_o clear_o as_o i_o can_v in_o these_o four_o follow_v particular_n 1._o all_o godly_a soul_n be_v not_o equal_o mortify_v to_o worldly_a love_n nor_o equal_o zealous_a and_o importunate_a lover_n of_o god_n this_o be_v so_o evident_a de_fw-fr facto_fw-la that_o i_o need_v not_o insist_v upon_o it_o abraham_n seem_v to_o have_v be_v as_o much_o high_a and_o noble_a in_o spirit_n than_o his_o brother_n lot_n as_o lot_z be_v more_o excellent_a than_o one_o of_o the_o ordinary_a son_n of_o adam_n i_o have_v almost_o say_v than_o one_o of_o the_o sodomite_n among_o who_o he_o dwell_v the_o one_o leaf_n all_o the_o pleasant_a and_o plentiful_a accommodation_n of_o his_o native_a country_n at_o the_o very_a first_o call_v go_v out_o not_o know_v whither_o he_o go_v only_o rely_v upon_o the_o gracious_a guidance_n of_o he_o who_o he_o follow_v he_o seem_v to_o reckon_v all_o soil_n alike_o for_o his_o sojourn_v and_o the_o whole_a habitable_a world_n as_o his_o own_o city_n and_o home_n as_o appear_v by_o his_o readiness_n to_o break_v up_o house_n and_o quit_v his_o present_a habitation_n rather_o than_o interfere_v with_o the_o convenience_n of_o his_o nephew_n gen._n 13._o 9_o the_o other_o prefer_v a_o fruitful_a soil_n before_o a_o faithful_a society_n and_o so_o in_o some_o sense_n his_o body_n before_o his_o soul_n and_o yet_o as_o if_o it_o have_v not_o be_v enough_o to_o make_v so_o unadvised_a a_o choice_n he_o rest_v in_o it_o too_o yea_o though_o he_o be_v so_o severe_o reprove_v by_o the_o captivity_n that_o befall_v he_o there_o whereby_o he_o be_v not_o so_o much_o call_v as_o indeed_o carry_v away_o thence_o yet_o this_o will_v not_o loosen_v he_o from_o his_o earthly_a convenience_n but_o he_o return_v to_o sodom_n and_o from_o thence_o he_o will_v not_o part_v till_o he_o be_v fire_v out_o nay_o and_o then_o also_o it_o be_v with_o much_o linger_a and_o loathness_n gen._n 19_o 16._o it_o be_v evident_a i_o say_v de_fw-fr facto_fw-la both_o from_o this_o and_o many_o other_o instance_n which_o i_o purposely_o omit_v that_o it_o be_v so_o that_o all_o godly_a soul_n be_v not_o equal_o careless_a of_o these_o earthly_a thing_n not_o carry_v out_o with_o equal_a ardour_n and_o intemperance_n as_o i_o may_v call_v it_o towards_o the_o supreme_a and_o most_o glorious_a object_n of_o which_o i_o can_v assign_v no_o fit_a reason_n than_o this_o because_o they_o be_v not_o all_o equal_o godly_a for_o 2._o so_o far_o as_o grace_n prevail_v and_o religion_n in_o the_o power_n of_o be_v act_v the_o soul_n in_o which_o it_o be_v plant_v so_o far_o earthly_a love_n decay_n and_o wither_v for_o these_o two_o can_v stand_v together_o mutuo_fw-la se_fw-la pellunt_fw-la the_o love_n of_o the_o world_n be_v inconsistent_a with_o the_o love_n of_o god_n 1_o joh._n 1._o 15._o if_o any_o man_n love_v the_o world_n the_o love_n of_o the_o father_n be_v not_o in_o he_o so_o far_o as_o any_o soul_n be_v sanctify_v so_o far_o be_v it_o mortify_v also_o to_o all_o creature-enjoyment_n to_o all_o thing_n that_o be_v only_a fuel_n for_o the_o animal_n life_n honour_n ease_n victory_n plenty_n liberty_n relation_n recreation_n all_o the_o entertainment_n and_o delight_n in_o this_o low_a life_n yea_o and_o this_o very_a life_n itself_o earthly_a and_o heavenly_a love_n be_v to_o each_o other_o as_o the_o two_o end_n of_o a_o pair_n of_o balance_n save_o that_o they_o be_v never_o find_v equal_o poize_v as_o the_o one_o rise_v the_o other_o fall_v just_o so_o much_o advantage_n as_o this_o get_v that_o lose_v the_o more_o the_o sensual_a and_o self-central_a life_n thrive_v and_o prosper_v and_o the_o creature_n be_v exalt_v the_o more_o religion_n and_o the_o divine_a life_n faint_v and_o floge_v in_o the_o soul_n and_o so_o certain_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n the_o more_o divine_a grace_n prevail_v and_o the_o divine_a life_n flourish_v in_o the_o soul_n the_o more_o all_o earthly_a object_n wither_v away_o and_o lose_v their_o beauty_n and_o the_o soul_n cool_v and_o languish_v as_o to_o its_o love_n and_o desire_v of_o they_o so_o far_o as_o a_o regenerate_a soul_n be_v unregenerate_a so_o far_o she_o will_v be_v bufle_n after_o other_o lover_n which_o regeneration_n will_v not_o i_o conceive_v be_v thorough_o perfect_v and_o therefore_o these_o lusting_n not_o utter_o extinguish_v till_o this_o mortal_a put_v on_o immortality_n or_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v elsewhere_o till_o mortality_n be_v swallow_v up_o of_o life_n 3._o for_o the_o prevent_n of_o rash_a and_o uncharitable_a judge_v i_o do_v affirm_v that_o divine_a and_o holy_a soul_n be_v oft_o mistake_v by_o they_o that_o behold_v their_o ordinary_a converse_n and_o action_n in_o the_o body_n they_o be_v think_v sometime_o to_o take_v pleasure_n in_o the_o creature_n and_o to_o gratify_v the_o flesh_n when_o indeed_o it_o be_v no_o such_o matter_n but_o they_o take_v pleasure_n in_o the_o stamp_n of_o god_n or_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o fatherly_a love_n which_o they_o contemplate_v therein_o and_o do_v perhaps_o most_o of_o all_o serve_v a_o spiritual_a end_n and_o a_o eternal_a design_n in_o those_o very_a action_n which_o other_o may_v think_v be_v calculate_v for_o the_o gratification_n of_o the_o animal_n life_n and_o the_o service_n of_o the_o flesh_n let_v not_o the_o purblind_a world_n nor_o the_o self-befriending_a hypocrite_n be_v judge_n and_o it_o will_v appear_v that_o the_o true_o godly_a soul_n count_v nothing_o savoury_a to_o itself_o but_o what_o represent_v teach_v exhibit_v something_o of_o god_n nothing_o pleasant_a but_o what_o have_v a_o tendency_n to_o he_o such_o a_o soul_n do_v not_o feel_v himself_o in_o his_o high_a rapture_n do_v not_o taste_v himself_o in_o his_o noble_a accomplishment_n do_v not_o seek_v himself_o in_o his_o most_o excellent_a performance_n be_v nor_o mistake_v he_o do_v not_o so_o much_o thirst_n after_o long_a life_n riches_n friend_n liberty_n as_o indeed_o after_o god_n in_o they_o all_o these_o all_o signify_v nothing_o to_o he_o if_o they_o bring_v he_o not_o near_o to_o his_o god_n and_o conduce_v to_o his_o real_a and_o spiritual_a happiness_n yea_o possible_o in_o his_o most_o suspicable_a action_n and_o those_o that_o seem_v most_o alien_a from_o religion_n and_o most_o design_v to_o please_v the_o flesh_n he_o may_v be_v high_o spiritual_a and_o pure_a so_o be_v our_o bless_a saviour_n we_o know_v even_o in_o his_o converse_v with_o scandalous_a sinner_n eat_v and_o drink_v with_o publican_n and_o notorious_a offender_n however_o he_o be_v traduce_v by_o a_o proud_a and_o hypocritical_a generation_n and_o so_o i_o doubt_v not_o be_v many_o a_o good_a christian_a according_a to_o his_o measure_n pure_a as_o christ_n be_v pure_a when_o a_o paint_a hypocrite_n who_o can_v guess_v a●_n the_o temper_n of_o other_o no_o other_o way_n but_o by_o what_o he_o find_v in_o himself_o and_o by_o what_o he_o shall_v be_v and_o do_v if_o he_o be_v under_o the_o same_o circumstance_n come_v to_o be_v judge_n of_o the_o action_n or_o disposition_n of_o one_o who_o be_v transform_v into_o the_o image_n of_o the_o divine_a freedom_n and_o benignity_n
who_o she_o have_v so_o long_o straggle_v by_o sin_n and_o wickedness_n for_o the_o god_n of_o hope_n fill_v the_o godly_a soul_n with_o all_o peace_n and_o joy_n in_o believe_v rom._n 15._o 13._o christ_n do_v on_o purpose_n speak_v word_n to_o the_o heart_n of_o his_o disciple_n that_o their_o joy_n may_v be_v full_a joh._n 15._o 11._o but_o whether_o the_o most_o benign_a and_o gracious_a father_n of_o spirit_n do_v immediate_o from_o himself_o inspire_v the_o holy_a soul_n with_o divine_a joy_n and_o pleasure_n kindle_v as_o i_o may_v say_v with_o nothing_o but_o his_o own_o breath_n or_o whether_o he_o bring_v they_o to_o his_o holy_a mountain_n and_o into_o his_o house_n of_o prayer_n and_o by_o that_o or_o any_o other_o the_o like_a mean_n make_v they_o joyful_a and_o of_o glad_a heart_n as_o in_o the_o day_n of_o a_o solemn_a festival_n as_o he_o have_v promise_v to_o do_v isa_n 56._o 7._o and_o isa_n 25._o 6._o however_o it_o be_v i_o say_v sure_o it_o be_v that_o he_o frequent_o put_v a_o gladness_n into_o their_o heart_n beyond_o that_o of_o the_o harvest_n or_o the_o vintage_n psal_n 4._o 7._o and_o make_v they_o to_o rejoice_v with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n 1_o pet._n 1._o 8._o have_v now_o unfold_v the_o meaning_n of_o the_o gracious_a soul_n be_v nor_o thirst_v any_o more_o i_o shall_v pass_v to_o the_o last_o thing_n contain_v in_o the_o text_n but_o find_v myself_o oppress_v in_o my_o spirit_n by_o the_o consideration_n of_o this_o necessary_a consequent_a of_o true_a religion_n when_o i_o compare_v the_o temper_n of_o christian_n with_o it_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d i_o must_v crave_v leave_n to_o stay_v a_o little_a and_o breathe_v and_o what_o shall_v i_o breathe_v but_o a_o sad_a and_o bitter_a complaint_n over_o that_o low_a earthly_a selfish_a greedy_a spirit_n which_o actuate_v the_o world_n at_o this_o day_n yea_o and_o the_o generality_n of_o professor_n of_o that_o sacred_a religion_n which_o we_o call_v christianity_n alas_o what_o a_o company_n of_o thief_n and_o murderer_n i_o mean_v base_a and_o sensual_a love_n and_o lust_n lodge_v in_o those_o very_a soul_n who_o will_v be_v take_v for_o temple_n consecrate_v to_o the_o name_n and_o honour_n and_o inhabitation_n of_o the_o eternal_a god_n the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n and_o holiness_n oh_o what_o pity_n be_v it_o that_o the_o precious_a soul_n of_o man_n yea_o and_o of_o christian_n the_o best_a of_o man_n that_o be_v all_o capable_a of_o so_o glorious_a liberty_n so_o high_a and_o honourable_a a_o happiness_n shall_v be_v bind_v down_o under_o such_o vile_a and_o sordid_a lust_n feed_v upon_o dust_n and_o gravel_n to_o who_o the_o hide_a mannah_n be_v free_o offer_v and_o god_n himself_o be_v ready_a to_o become_v a_o banquet_n and_o oh_o what_o a_o shame_n be_v it_o for_o those_o who_o profess_v themselves_o child_n of_o god_n disciple_n of_o the_o most_o holy_a jesus_n and_o heir_n of_o his_o pure_a and_o undefiled_a kingdom_n of_o heaven_n for_o these_o i_o say_v willing_o and_o greedy_o to_o roll_v themselves_o in_o filthy_a and_o brutish_a sensuality_n to_o set_v up_o that_o on_o high_a in_o their_o soul_n which_o be_v make_v to_o be_v under_o their_o body_n and_o so_o to_o love_v and_o live_v as_o if_o they_o study_v to_o have_v no_o affinity_n at_o all_o but_o will_v be_v as_o unlike_a as_o they_o can_v to_o that_o god_n and_o redeemer_n and_o unfit_a for_o that_o inheritance_n how_o often_o shall_v it_o be_v protest_v to_o the_o christian_a world_n by_o man_n of_o the_o great_a devotion_n and_o seriousness_n that_o it_o be_v utter_o mad_a and_o perfect_o vain_a to_o dream_v of_o enter_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n hereafter_o except_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n enter_v into_o our_o soul_n during_o their_o union_n with_o these_o body_n how_o long_o shall_v the_o son_n of_o god_n who_o come_v into_o the_o world_n on_o purpose_n to_o be_v the_o most_o glorious_a example_n of_o true_a and_o divine_a purity_n exact_a and_o perfect_a self-denial_n and_o mortification_n how_o long_o shall_v he_o lie_v by_o in_o his_o word_n as_o a_o antiquate_a pattern_n only_o cut_v out_o for_o the_o apostolical_a age_n of_o the_o world_n and_o only_o suit_v to_o some_o few_o morose_n and_o melancholic_a man_n be_v it_o not_o a_o monstrous_a spectacle_n and_o to_o be_v hiss_v out_o of_o the_o world_n with_o the_o great_a indignation_n a_o covetous_a voluptuous_a ambitious_a sensual_a saint_n with_o what_o face_n can_v we_o pretend_v to_o true_a religion_n or_o a_o feel_a acquaintance_n with_o god_n and_o the_o thing_n of_o his_o personal_a service_n and_o kingdom_n while_o the_o continual_a bleat_n and_o lowing_n of_o our_o soul_n after_o create_v good_a do_v bewray_v we_o so_o manifest_o and_o proclaim_v before_o all_o the_o world_n that_o the_o beast_n the_o brutish_a life_n be_v still_o powerful_a in_o we_o if_o you_o seek_v i_o say_v christ_n to_o his_o follower_n as_o well_o as_o he_o do_v once_o to_o his_o persecutor_n then_o let_v these_o go_v let_v go_v the_o hold_n of_o these_o earthly_a object_n let_v vanish_v these_o worldly_a joy_n and_o toy_n withhold_v your_o throat_n from_o thirst_n and_o your_o foot_n from_o be_v unshod_a and_o come_v follow_v i_o only_o and_o you_o shall_v have_v treasure_n in_o heaven_n for_o he_o that_o will_v not_o deny_v all_o for_o i_o be_v not_o worthy_a of_o i_o but_o o_o curvae_fw-la in_o terras_fw-la animae_fw-la etc._n etc._n ah_o sad_a and_o dreadful_a fall_n that_o have_v so_o miserable_o cramp_v this_o royal_a offspring_n and_o make_v the_o king_n son_n to_o be_v a_o same_o mephibosheth_n ah_o dolesul_n apostasy_n how_o be_v the_o son_n of_o the_o morning_n become_v brat_n of_o darkness_n and_o the_o heir_n of_o heaven_n vassal_n and_o drudge_n to_o earth_n how_o be_v the_o king_n daughter_n unequal_o yoke_v with_o a_o churlish_a nabal_n that_o continual_o check_v she_o with_o more_o divine_a and_o generous_a motion_n how_o unhappy_o be_v thou_o match_v o_o my_o soul_n and_o yet_o alas_o i_o see_v it_o be_v too_o proper_o a_o marriage_n for_o thou_o have_v clean_o forget_v thy_o own_o people_n and_o thy_o father_n house_n take_v up_o oh_o take_v up_o a_o lamentation_n thou_o virgin_n daughter_n of_o the_o god_n of_o zion_n sometime_o indeed_o a_o virgin_n but_o now_o alas_o no_o long_o a_o virgin_n but_o miserable_o marry_v to_o a_o unworthy_a mate_n that_o can_v never_o be_v able_a to_o match_v thy_o faculty_n nor_o maintain_v thou_o according_a to_o the_o grandeur_n of_o thy_o birth_n or_o the_o necessary_a pomp_n of_o thy_o expense_n and_o way_n of_o live_v nay_o thou_o be_v become_v not_o only_o a_o miserable_a wife_n but_o in_o so_o be_v thou_o be_v also_o a_o wicked_a adulteress_n prostitute_v thyself_o to_o the_o very_o vile_a of_o thy_o lawful_a husband_n servant_n if_o thou_o be_v not_o incestuous_a it_o be_v no_o thank_n to_o thou_o there_o be_v nothing_o in_o this_o world_n so_o near_o of_o kin_n to_o thou_o as_o to_o make_v way_n for_o incest_n return_v return_n o_o shulamite_n return_n return_v put_v away_o thy_o adultery_n from_o between_o thy_o breast_n and_o so_o shall_v the_o king_n yet_o again_o great_o desire_v thy_o beauty_n for_o so_o he_o have_v promise_v jer._n 3._o 21._o that_o when_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o voice_n hear_v upon_o the_o high_a place_n weep_v and_o supplication_n of_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n because_o they_o have_v pervert_v their_o way_n and_o forget_v the_o lord_n their_o god_n and_o the_o backslide_a child_n shall_v return_v that_o then_o he_o will_v heal_v their_o backslide_n chap._n viii_o the_o term_n or_o end_n of_o religion_n eternal_a life_n consider_v in_o a_o double_a notion_n first_o as_o it_o signify_v the_o essential_a happiness_n of_o the_o soul_n the_o second_o as_o it_o take_v in_o many_o glorious_a appendix_n the_o former_a more_o full_o describe_v the_o latter_a more_o brief_o the_o noble_a and_o genuine_a breathe_n of_o the_o godly_a soul_n after_o and_o spring_v up_o into_o the_o former_a in_o what_o sense_n she_o may_v be_v say_v to_o desire_v the_o latter_a the_o argument_n draw_v from_o the_o example_n of_o christ_n moses_n and_o paul_n moderate_v a_o general_a answer_n give_v to_o the_o quaery_n it_o end_v in_o a_o serious_a exhortation_n make_v to_o christian_n to_o live_v and_o love_v more_o spiritual_o more_o suitable_o to_o the_o nature_n of_o soul_n redeem_v soul_n result_v from_o the_o whole_a discourse_n i_o be_o now_o come_v to_o the_o last_o thing_n whereby_o this_o most_o noble_a principle_n be_v describe_v viz._n the_o term_n or_o end_v of_o it_o and_o that_o be_v say_v here_o in_o the_o text_n to_o be_v everlasting_a life_n this_o be_v the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o
high_a pitch_n of_o perfection_n unto_o which_o the_o new_a creature_n be_v continual_o grow_v up_o which_o the_o apostle_n paul_n have_v express_v with_o as_o much_o grand_a eloquence_n as_o word_n be_v able_a to_o magnify_v if_o call_v it_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d the_o measure_n of_o the_o stature_n of_o the_o fullness_n of_o christ_n this_o be_v that_o unbounded_a ocean_n which_o this_o live_a fountain_n by_o so_o many_o incessantissue_n and_o unwearied_a streaming_n perpetual_o endeavour_n to_o empty_v itself_o into_o or_o rather_o to_o embosom_v itself_o in_o now_o what_o this_o be_v we_o must_v confess_v with_o the_o apostle_n john_n and_o indeed_o we_o have_v more_o reason_n to_o make_v such_o a_o confession_n than_o he_o have_v that_o it_o do_v not_o yet_o appear_v viz._n neither_o full_o nor_o distinct_o but_o yet_o since_o i_o be_o thus_o cast_v upon_o the_o contemplation_n of_o it_o it_o will_v be_v a_o pertinent_a piece_n of_o pleasure_n a_o little_a to_o inquire_v into_o it_o and_o though_o it_o surpass_v the_o power_n and_o skill_n of_o all_o create_a comprehension_n to_o take_v the_o just_a dimension_n and_o faithful_o give_v in_o the_o height_n and_o depth_n and_o length_n and_o breadth_n of_o it_o yet_o we_o may_v essay_n to_o walk_v about_o this_o heavenly_a jerusalem_n as_o the_o psalmist_n speak_v of_o the_o earthly_a and_o tell_v the_o tower_n thereof_o mark_v her_o wall_n consider_v her_o palace_n that_o we_o may_v tell_v it_o to_o the_o generation_n follow_v first_o then_o we_o will_v consider_v eternal_a life_n in_o the_o most_o proper_a notion_n of_o it_o as_o it_o imply_v the_o essential_a happiness_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o so_o it_o be_v no_o other_o than_o the_o soul_n pure_a perfect_a and_o establish_a state_n by_o a_o state_n i_o do_v design_o disparage_v that_o grosser_n notion_n of_o a_o place_n as_o that_o which_o scarce_o deserve_v to_o enter_v into_o the_o description_n of_o such_o a_o glory_n or_o at_o best_o will_v obtain_v but_o a_o very_a low_a room_n there_o by_o purity_n i_o do_v purposely_o explode_v that_o carnal_a ease_n rest_n immunity_n affluence_n of_o senfual_a delight_n accommodate_v only_o to_o the_o animal_n life_n which_o last_o the_o mahometans_n and_o the_o former_a too_o many_o profess_a christian_n and_o the_o jew_n almost_o general_o do_v dream_n of_o and_o judge_v heaven_n to_o be_v by_o perfection_n i_o do_v distinguish_v it_o from_o the_o best_a state_n which_o the_o best_a man_n upon_o earth_n can_v possible_o be_v in_o so_o then_o i_o take_v eternal_a life_n in_o the_o primary_n and_o most_o proper_a notion_n of_o it_o to_o be_v full_a and_o perfect_a and_o everlasting_a enjoyment_n of_o god_n communion_n with_o he_o and_o a_o most_o blissful_a conformity_n of_o all_o the_o power_n and_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o that_o eternal_a goodness_n truth_n and_o love_n as_o far_o as_o it_o be_v or_o may_v become_v capable_a of_o the_o communication_n of_o the_o divinity_n this_o life_n be_v at_o the_o high_a rate_n imaginable_a purchase_v by_o our_o ever_o bless_a lord_n and_o saviour_n in_o the_o day_n of_o his_o flesh_n and_o here_o in_o the_o text_n promise_v to_o every_o believe_a soul_n now_o in_o as_o much_o as_o we_o be_v ignorant_a both_o of_o the_o present_a capacity_n of_o our_o own_o faculty_n how_o large_a they_o be_v and_o much_o more_o ignorant_a how_o much_o more_o large_a and_o ample_a they_o may_v be_v make_v on_o purpose_n to_o receive_v the_o more_o rich_a and_o plentiful_a communication_n of_o the_o divine_a life_n and_o image_n therefore_o can_v we_o not_o comprehend_v neither_o the_o transcendent_a life_n happiness_n and_o glory_n nor_o that_o degree_n of_o sanctity_n and_o blessedness_n which_o the_o believe_a soul_n may_v be_v advance_v unto_o in_o another_o world_n the_o popish_a schoolman_n do_v nice_o dispute_v about_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n and_o the_o love_n of_o god_n to_o wit_n in_o whether_o of_o these_o the_o formal_a blessedness_n of_o the_o soul_n consist_v ill_o separate_v those_o who_o god_n have_v so_o firm_o join_v together_o as_o if_o it_o be_v possible_a that_o either_o a_o blind_a love_n or_o a_o jejune_n and_o unaffectionate_a speculation_n can_v render_v a_o soul_n entire_o happy_a but_o it_o be_v much_o safe_a to_o say_v that_o the_o happiness_n and_o eternal_a life_n of_o the_o soul_n stand_v in_o the_o possession_n or_o fruition_n of_o god_n and_o this_o do_v necessary_o import_v the_o proper_a perfection_n of_o every_o faculty_n nothing_o can_v be_v the_o formal_a happiness_n of_o a_o spirit_n that_o be_v either_o iuferiour_a or_o extrinsical_a to_o it_o it_o must_v be_v something_o divine_a and_o that_o wrought_v into_o the_o very_a nature_n and_o temper_n of_o it_o i_o doubt_v not_o to_o affirm_v that_o if_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n be_v possible_o advance_v so_o as_o to_o receive_v adoration_n or_o divine_a power_n yet_o if_o it_o be_v in_o the_o mean_a time_n void_a of_o divine_a disposition_n and_o a_o godlike_a nature_n it_o be_v far_o from_o be_v glorify_v and_o make_v happy_a as_o to_o its_o capacity_n what_o health_n be_v to_o the_o body_n that_o be_v holiness_n to_o the_o soul_n which_o happy_o the_o apostle_n allude_v to_o when_o he_o speak_v of_o the_o spirit_n of_o a_o sound_a mind_n 2_o tim._n 1._o 7._o second_o there_o be_v another_o notion_n of_o eternal_a life_n which_o some_o contend_v for_o by_o which_o they_o mean_v not_o bare_o the_o essential_a happiness_n of_o the_o soul_n but_o that_o with_o the_o addition_n of_o many_o suitable_a and_o glorious_a circumstance_n the_o essential_a happiness_n of_o the_o soul_n as_o it_o be_v attend_v with_o the_o appendix_n of_o a_o glorify_a body_n the_o behold_v of_o christ_n the_o amicable_a society_n of_o angel_n freedom_n from_o temptation_n the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o secret_n of_o nature_n and_o providence_n and_o some_o such_o like_a to_o which_o may_v be_v also_o add_v though_o of_o a_o low_a degree_n open_a absolution_n or_o a_o visible_a deliverance_n of_o the_o saint_n out_o of_o the_o overthrow_n of_o the_o wicked_a at_o the_o conflagration_n of_o the_o world_n power_n over_o devil_n eminence_n of_o place_n enjoyment_n of_o friend_n and_o some_o other_o like_a now_o let_v we_o brief_o consider_v what_o tendency_n there_o be_v in_o the_o religious_a soul_n towards_o each_o of_o these_o and_o here_o i_o must_v crave_v leave_n to_o speak_v joint_o both_o of_o the_o end_n and_o of_o the_o motion_n thereunto_o though_o it_o may_v be_v think_v that_o the_o former_a only_o fall_v fair_o under_o our_o present_a consideration_n first_o then_o i_o suppose_v that_o eternal_a life_n in_o the_o first_o sense_n of_o it_o be_v intend_v here_o to_o wit_n the_o essential_a happiness_n of_o the_o soul_n or_o its_o perfect_a and_o everlasting_a enjoyment_n of_o god_n for_o the_o description_n be_v here_o make_v of_o religion_n itself_o in_o the_o abstract_n or_o that_o principle_n of_o divine_a life_n which_o christ_n jesus_n implant_v in_o the_o soul_n and_o be_v so_o consider_v it_o be_v hard_o to_o conceive_v how_o that_o shall_v spring_v up_o into_o any_o of_o these_o appendant_a circumstance_n or_o into_o any_o thing_n but_o the_o completion_n and_o perfection_n of_o itself_o though_o the_o religious_a soul_n take_v in_o the_o concrete_a possible_o may_v and_o indeed_o though_o we_o shall_v allow_v which_o we_o shall_v take_v into_o consideration_n under_o the_o next_o head_n that_o many_o of_o those_o high_a scriptural_a phrase_n which_o be_v bring_v to_o describe_v the_o future_a condition_n of_o believe_a soul_n do_v principal_o respect_v the_o appendix_n of_o its_o essential_a happiness_n as_o a_o kingdom_n a_o house_n not_o make_v with_o hand_n eternal_a in_o the_o heaven_n a_o inheritance_n reserve_v a_o place_n prepare_v and_o the_o like_a yet_o it_o seem_v very_o unnatural_a to_o interpret_v this_o phrase_n life_n and_o eternal_a life_n any_o otherwise_o than_o of_o that_o which_o i_o call_v the_o essential_a happiness_n of_o the_o soul_n but_o if_o we_o interpret_v it_o of_o this_o the_o sense_n be_v very_o fair_a and_o easy_a thus_o this_o principle_n of_o divine_a life_n be_v continual_o endeavour_v to_o grow_v up_o to_o its_o just_a altitude_n to_o advance_v itself_o unto_o a_o triumphant_a state_n even_o as_o all_o other_o principle_n of_o life_n do_v natural_o tend_v towards_o a_o final_a accomplishment_n and_o ultimate_a perfection_n carnal_a self_n or_o the_o animal_n life_n may_v be_v indeed_o say_v to_o be_v a_o well_o of_o water_n too_o poisonous_a water_n but_o that_o spring_v up_o into_o a_o sensual_a life_n popular_a applause_n self-accommodation_n or_o if_o you_o will_v in_o the_o apostle_n phrase_n into_o the_o fulfilment_n of_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n this_o i_o speak_v only_o by_o way_n of_o illustratory_n opposition_n for_o to_o speak_v more_o
pleasure_n profit_n or_o preferment_n into_o it_o yet_o it_o be_v a_o well_o of_o live_a water_n and_o will_v work_v its_o passage_n out_o the_o hungring_n of_o the_o godly_a soul_n be_v not_o can_v be_v satisfy_v till_o it_o come_v to_o feed_v upon_o the_o hide_a manna_n nor_o its_o thirsting_n quench_v till_o it_o come_v to_o be_v swallow_v up_o in_o the_o unbounded_a ocean_n of_o life_n and_o love_n but_o i_o see_v i_o can_v divide_v spring_v up_o from_o eternal_a life_n nor_o pursue_v the_o term_n of_o religion_n but_o i_o must_v also_o take_v in_o the_o motion_n of_o the_o religious_a soul_n whereby_o he_o pursue_v it_o which_o i_o have_v already_o handle_v in_o my_o discourse_n therefore_o i_o will_v quit_v this_o head_n and_o take_v a_o short_a view_n of_o the_o second_o the_o secondary_a and_o more_o improper_a notion_n of_o eternal_a life_n i_o tell_v you_o be_v that_o which_o take_v in_o the_o circumstance_n or_o appendix_n of_o it_o and_o here_o we_o must_v needs_o allow_v that_o the_o holy_a scripture_n do_v open_o avonch_v some_o of_o these_o circumstance_n as_o those_o especial_o of_o the_o first_o rank_n that_o i_o name_v of_o some_o of_o which_o it_o seem_v to_o make_v great_a account_n and_o possible_o the_o scripture_n may_v some_o where_o or_o other_o imply_v all_o the_o rest_n even_o those_o of_o the_o inferior_a rank_n again_o we_o will_v allow_v that_o many_o of_o those_o phrase_n which_o the_o scripture_n use_v to_o describe_v the_o bless_a state_n of_o the_o other_o world_n do_v principal_o respect_v these_o appendix_n of_o the_o soul_n essential_a happiness_n such_o perhaps_o be_v the_o crown_n of_o righteousness_n mention_v by_o the_o apostle_n 1_o tim._n 4._o 8._o the_o price_n of_o the_o high_a call_v mention_v by_o the_o same_o apostle_n phil._n 3._o 14._o the_o house_n which_o be_v from_o heaven_n speak_v of_o 2_o cor._n 6._o 2._o a_o kingdom_n a_o incorruptible_a inheritance_n a_o place_n prepare_v mansion_n a_o reward_n praise_n and_o honour_n and_o glory_n at_o the_o appear_v of_o jesus_n christ_n 1_o pet._n 1._o 7._o and_o that_o glory_n honour_n and_o peace_n speak_v of_o by_o the_o apostle_n paul_n rom._n 2._o 10._o these_o be_v all_o scripture_n description_n of_o the_o other_o state_n and_o i_o suppose_v we_o may_v grant_v they_o to_o have_v a_o peculiar_a reference_n to_o this_o secondary_a and_o preter-essential_a happiness_n of_o the_o soul_n though_o i_o know_v not_o any_o necessity_n there_o be_v to_o be_v so_o liberal_a in_o our_o concession_n for_o it_o may_v be_v fair_o say_v concern_v all_o or_o most_o of_o they_o that_o the_o design_n of_o these_o phrase_n be_v not_o so_o much_o to_o establish_v this_o less_o proper_a notion_n or_o to_o point_v ou●_n to_o the_o circumstance_n of_o the_o glorify_a state_n as_o to_o insinuate_v how_o much_o more_o ample_a and_o glorious_a that_o state_n shall_v be_v than_o this_o in_o which_o we_o now_o be_v as_o a_o prize_n be_v look_v upon_o as_o somewhat_o more_o excellent_a than_o what_o be_v do_v or_o expend_v to_o acquire_v it_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v so_o esteem_v by_o runner_n and_o wrestler_n a_o kingdom_n be_v a_o more_o glorious_a state_n than_o that_o of_o subjection_n and_o a_o inheritance_n be_v incomparable_o more_o ample_a than_o the_o pension_n that_o be_v allow_v the_o heir_n in_o his_o minority_n but_o these_o thing_n be_v concede_v it_o do_v not_o appear_v how_o far_o or_o under_o what_o notion_n the_o religious_a soul_n as_o such_o do_v spring_n up_o into_o these_o additional_a glory_n and_o thirst_n after_o they_o i_o know_v there_o be_v many_o that_o speak_v very_o high_o of_o these_o appendix_n and_o allow_v the_o godly_a soul_n a_o very_a high_a and_o irrespective_a valuation_n of_o they_o and_o this_o they_o do_v principal_o infer_v from_o the_o example_n of_o christ_n himself_o as_o also_o of_o moses_n and_o paul_n give_v i_o leave_v therefore_o to_o suggest_v something_o not_o to_o enervate_v but_o to_o moderate_v the_o argument_n draw_v from_o these_o person_n and_o after_o that_o i_o shall_v brief_o lay_v down_o what_o i_o conceive_v to_o be_v most_o scriptural_a and_o rational_a in_o this_o matter_n first_o as_o for_o the_o example_n of_o christ_n it_o seem_v to_o make_v not_o much_o for_o they_o in_o this_o matter_n for_o however_o the_o text_n be_v very_o plain_a that_o for_o the_o joy_n that_o be_v set_v before_o he_o he_o endure_v the_o cross_n and_o this_o joy_n seem_v plain_o to_o be_v his_o session_n at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n heb._n 12._o 2._o yet_o if_o by_o this_o joy_n we_o understand_v a_o more_o full_a and_o glorious_a possession_n of_o god_n and_o a_o more_o excellent_a exaltation_n of_o his_o humane_a nature_n to_o a_o more_o free_a fruition_n of_o the_o divine_a than_o it_o can_v be_v apply_v to_o any_o thing_n but_o the_o spring_a up_o of_o the_o gracious_a soul_n into_o its_o essential_a happiness_n which_o i_o have_v already_o contend_v for_o as_o be_v the_o proper_a genius_n of_o such_o a_o soul_n or_o if_o by_o this_o joy_n and_o throne_n we_o understand_v the_o power_n that_o christ_n foresee_v he_o shall_v be_v vest_v with_o of_o lead_a captivity_n captive_a trample_v under_o foot_n the_o power_n of_o hell_n and_o darkness_n and_o procure_v gift_n for_o man_n which_o seem_v to_o i_o to_o be_v most_o likely_a than_o it_o belong_v not_o at_o all_o to_o man_n neither_o can_v this_o example_n be_v draw_v into_o imitation_n as_o for_o the_o instance_n of_o moses_n who_o be_v say_v to_o have_v have_v respect_n to_o the_o recompense_n of_o the_o reward_n heb._n 11._o 26._o it_o be_v not_o yet_o grant_v that_o that_o recompense_n of_o reward_n relate_v principal_o to_o these_o appendant_o of_o the_o soul_n essential_a happiness_n neither_o can_v it_o i_o suppose_v be_v evince_v but_o though_o i_o shall_v also_o allow_v that_o which_o i_o incline_v to_o do_v yet_o all_o that_o can_v be_v infer_v from_o it_o be_v but_o a_o respect_n that_o moses_n have_v as_o our_o translation_n well_o render_v it_o or_o some_o account_n which_o he_o in_o his_o suffering_n make_v of_o this_o recompense_n which_o be_v a_o very_a warrantable_a contemplation_n the_o apostle_n paul_n indeed_o do_v open_o profess_v that_o he_o look_v for_o and_o desire_v the_o come_n of_o christ_n from_o heaven_n upon_o the_o account_n of_o that_o glorious_a body_n which_o he_o will_v then_o clothe_v he_o with_o phil._n 3._o 20_o 21._o and_o so_o he_o may_v sure_o and_o yet_o not_o desire_v it_o principal_o and_o primary_o but_o secondary_o and_o with_o reference_n and_o this_o lead_v i_o to_o the_o general_a answer_n that_o i_o be_v prepare_v to_o give_v which_o be_v this_o some_o of_o these_o circumstance_n which_o i_o name_v especial_o that_o of_o the_o glorify_a body_n may_v be_v reduce_v to_o the_o essential_a happiness_n of_o the_o soul_n or_o include_v in_o it_o so_o as_o that_o the_o soul_n can_v not_o otherwise_o be_v perfect_o happy_a it_o be_v the_o vote_n of_o all_o divine_n i_o think_v that_o a_o christian_n be_v not_o complete_o happy_a till_o he_o consist_v of_o a_o soul_n and_o body_n both_o glorify_v and_o indeed_o consider_v the_o dear_a affection_n and_o essential_a aptitude_n that_o god_n have_v plant_v in_o the_o humane_a soul_n for_o a_o body_n we_o can_v well_o conceive_v how_o she_o shall_v be_v perfect_o happy_a without_o one_o and_o this_o earthly_a body_n be_v alas_o a_o unequal_a yoke_n fellow_n in_o which_o she_o be_v half_o stifle_v and_o rather_o bury_v than_o convenient_o lodge_v so_o that_o it_o seem_v necessary_a even_o to_o her_o essential_a happiness_n that_o she_o shall_v have_v some_o more_o heavenly_a and_o glorious_a body_n wherein_o she_o may_v commodious_o and_o pleasant_o exert_v her_o innate_a power_n and_o whereby_o she_o may_v express_v herself_o in_o a_o spiritual_a and_o noble_a manner_n suitable_a to_o her_o own_o natural_a dignity_n and_o vigour_n and_o to_o her_o infinitely-amiable_a and_o most_o belove_a object_n concern_v the_o rest_n of_o the_o circumstance_n which_o can_v be_v thus_o reduce_v i_o conceive_v that_o such_o of_o they_o as_o be_v necessary_a to_o the_o essential_a happiness_n of_o the_o soul_n by_o way_n of_o subserviency_n may_v be_v eye_v and_o desire_v and_o thirst_v after_o secondary_o and_o with_o reference_n as_o i_o say_v before_o that_o be_v under_o this_o notion_n only_o as_o they_o be_v subservient_fw-fr to_o that_o essential_a blessedness_n i_o confess_v i_o do_v not_o understand_v under_o what_o other_o notion_n a_o religious_a soul_n can_v lift_v up_o itself_o unto_o they_o i_o mean_v not_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o it_o be_v holy_a and_o religious_a and_o act_n suitable_o to_o that_o divine_a principle_n which_o the_o father_n of_o spirit_n or_o rather_o the_o father_n of_o our_o lord_n
god_n why_o it_o render_v up_o its_o whole_a self_n unto_o he_o faith_n be_v a_o give_v grace_n as_o well_o as_o a_o receive_n it_o give_v up_o the_o soul_n back_o to_o christ_n as_o well_o as_o take_v christ_n into_o the_o soul_n it_o suck_v in_o strength_n and_o grace_n from_o god_n and_o reciprocal_o spend_v the_o same_o and_o the_o whole_a power_n of_o the_o soul_n upon_o he_o the_o happiness_n of_o a_o godly_a soul_n do_v not_o consist_v in_o cessation_n and_o rest_n the_o soul_n itself_o be_v a_o powerful_a and_o active_a be_v the_o happiness_n of_o it_o the_o very_a rest_n of_o it_o must_v also_o be_v active_a and_o vigorous_a where_o there_o be_v communion_n there_o must_v needs_o be_v quick_a and_o lively_a return_n reciprocation_n reflection_n and_o correspondency_n the_o drawing_n of_o god_n be_v answer_v with_o the_o soul_n run_v cant._n 1._o 41._o the_o motion_n of_o christ_n finger_n beget_v a_o motion_n in_o the_o christian_n soul_n cant._n 5._o 4._o my_o belove_a put_v in_o his_o hand_n by_o the_o hole_n of_o the_o door_n and_o my_o bowel_n be_v move_v for_o he_o these_o be_v the_o divine_a and_o harmoneous_a response_n which_o be_v make_v and_o maintain_v in_o the_o godly_a soul_n the_o temple_n of_o the_o live_a god_n oh_o shake_v of_o that_o lazy_a and_o drowsy_a spirit_n which_o have_v so_o benumb_v many_o in_o this_o cold_a and_o stupid_a age_n of_o the_o world_n work_v out_o your_o salvation_n with_o all_o care_n and_o diligence_n if_o your_o religion_n be_v nothing_o but_o a_o spiritual_a kind_n of_o sleep_n you●_n heaven_n will_v prove_v to_o be_v nothing_o but_o a_o pleasant_a kind_n of_o dream_n communion_n with_o god_n speak_v something_o divine_a active_a vigorous_a the_o life_n of_o a_o christian_a do_v not_o consist_v only_o in_o cessation_n from_o evil_n reformation_n of_o sin_n or_o die_v thereunto_o mortification_n be_v but_o one_o part_n of_o regeneration_n it_o be_v the_o conceit_n and_o i_o doubt_v the_o deceit_n of_o many_o nominal_a christian_n that_o if_o they_o can_v but_o keep_v up_o a_o indifferent_a even_a spirit_n and_o conversation_n free_a from_o gross_a and_o scandalous_a sin_n from_o day_n to_o day_n they_o be_v happy_a enough_o their_o utmost_a ambition_n be_v to_o be_v innocent_a and_o harmless_a this_o indeed_o be_v necessary_a and_o praise_v worthy_a but_o sure_o the_o happiness_n of_o a_o soul_n lie_v high_a thus_o happy_a be_v all_o the_o creature_n that_o keep_v in_o the_o station_n and_o keep_v up_o the_o order_n prescribe_v they_o of_o god_n thus_o happy_a be_v the_o sun_n in_o the_o firmament_n run_v his_o race_n continual_o and_o never_o depart_v from_o the_o office_n which_o be_v assign_v to_o it_o but_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n be_v capable_a of_o a_o high_a kind_n of_o happiness_n viz._n communion_n with_o god_n which_o be_v when_o the_o faculty_n thereof_o be_v awaken_v refine_a and_o act_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n do_v reciprocal_o act_v and_o spend_v themselves_o upon_o he_o long_v to_o be_v perfect_o swallow_v up_o in_o he_o and_o to_o be_v all_o that_o which_o god_n himself_o be_v as_o far_o as_o the_o creature_n be_v capable_a to_o drink_v in_o the_o perfection_n of_o the_o creator_n and_o become_v one_o with_o his_o maker_n this_o be_v that_o true_o noble_a and_o divine_a life_n which_o be_v here_o call_v communion_n with_o god_n which_o the_o hie-spirited_a and_o generous_a soul_n labour_v yet_o more_o and_o more_o to_o be_v grow_v up_o into_o and_o perfect_v in_o keep_v yourselves_o with_o david_n from_o your_o iniquity_n it_o be_v something_o to_o be_v free_v from_o the_o guilt_n and_o power_n of_o sin_n but_o there_o be_v somewhat_o high_a than_o this_o a_o more_o excellent_a attainment_n a_o more_o divine_a accomplishment_n go_v on_o therefore_o with_o the_o same_o david_n and_o aspire_v after_o this_o pure_a and_o blissful_a state_n this_o heaven_n upon_o earth_n wait_v for_o the_o more_o ample_a and_o glorious_a manifestation_n of_o god_n to_o you_o and_o in_o you_o more_o than_o they_o that_o watch_v for_o the_o morning_n as_o he_o do_v psal_n 130._o 6._o this_o inference_n be_v only_o of_o instruction_n but_o the_o sweetness_n and_o needfulness_n of_o the_o subject_n almost_o prevail_v with_o i_o to_o turn_v it_o into_o a_o earnest_a exhortation_n but_o that_o i_o will_v not_o prevent_v myself_o therefore_o i_o proceed_v to_o the_o next_o way_n of_o improve_n this_o doctrine_n which_o shall_v be_v by_o way_n of_o conviction_n or_o reprehension_n 1._o our_o fellowship_n be_v it_o reprove_v they_o that_o can_v take_v up_o with_o a_o shall_v be_v a_o heaven_n to_o come_v i_o be_o now_o speak_v not_o to_o the_o worst_a of_o man_n who_o very_a soul_n be_v swallow_v up_o in_o sensual_a enjoyment_n and_o imprison_v in_o their_o sense_n for_o these_o man_n either_o think_v of_o no_o heaven_n at_o all_o or_o else_o they_o place_v their_o heaven_n and_o happiness_n in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o themselves_o or_o of_o the_o creature_n nor_o yet_o do_v i_o speak_v to_o those_o man_n who_o be_v persuade_v of_o a_o future_a state_n do_v indeed_o wish_v for_o a_o heaven_n to_o come_v but_o than_o it_o be_v a_o poor_a kind_n of_o low_a and_o earthly_a heaven_n consist_v in_o case_n rest_z safety_n freedom_n from_o trouble_n or_o torment_n which_o be_v the_o best_a happiness_n which_o most_o man_n understand_v the_o high_a heaven_n that_o any_o carnal_a mind_n can_v see_v or_o soar_v up_o to_o but_o i_o be_o speak_v to_o a_o better_a and_o fine_a sort_n of_o soul_n than_o these_o that_o be_v very_o possess_v with_o a_o sense_n of_o a_o pure_a and_o spiritual_a heaven_n in_o the_o world_n to_o come_v yea_o they_o be_v so_o overpower_v with_o the_o foresight_n of_o it_o as_o that_o they_o do_v earnest_o expect_v and_o wish_v for_o it_o yea_o the_o hope_n of_o it_o do_v sustain_v and_o strengthen_v their_o heart_n under_o the_o manifold_a temptation_n and_o persecution_n of_o this_o present_a world_n they_o be_v so_o very_o persuade_v of_o the_o truth_n of_o it_o and_o of_o their_o own_o title_n to_o it_o too_o that_o they_o be_v content_a to_o abide_v this_o long_a and_o disconsolate_a night_n of_o dimness_n and_o anguish_n and_o frightfulness_n mere_o in_o expectation_n of_o the_o dawn_n of_o that_o day_n that_o clear_a and_o bright_a day_n of_o their_o glorious_a and_o everlasting_a redemption_n and_o herein_o i_o be_o far_o from_o blame_v they_o nay_o i_o must_v needs_o commend_v their_o magnanimous_a faith_n and_o self-denial_n but_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n they_o dwell_v too_o much_o upon_o heaven_n as_o a_o future_a state_n and_o comfort_v themselves_o only_o in_o a_o happiness_n to_o come_v not_o long_v and_o labour_v to_o find_v a_o heaven_n open_v within_o themselves_o a_o beginning_n of_o eternal_a bliss_n bring_v into_o themselves_o they_o be_v too_o well_o content_a with_o a_o certain_a reversion_n and_o do_v not_o eager_o enough_o endeavour_v a_o present_a possession_n to_o be_v actual_o enstate_v in_o so_o much_o of_o the_o inheritance_n of_o soul_n as_o may_v fall_v to_o their_o share_n even_o in_o this_o low_a world_n this_o slothful_a temper_n and_o inactivity_n i_o do_v condemn_v wherever_o it_o be_v find_v yea_o though_o it_o be_v in_o my_o own_o soul_n every_o thing_n in_o the_o world_n by_o a_o natural_a principle_n thirst_v after_o its_o proper_a rest_n and_o a_o happiness_n suitable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o it_o no_o creature_n can_v be_v content_a though_o it_o may_v be_v constrain_v to_o be_v at_o a_o distance_n from_o its_o centre_n but_o be_v still_o carry_v out_o towards_o its_o own_o perfection_n and_o why_o then_o shall_v a_o godly_a soul_n who_o be_v god_n only_o new_a creature_n in_o the_o world_n be_v content_a with_o a_o state_n of_o imperfection_n why_o shall_v not_o he_o as_o eager_o cove●_n and_o as_o earnest_o pursue_v the_o most_o intimate_a and_o close_a communion_n and_o conjunction_n with_o his_o god_n as_o they_o do_v with_o their_o respective_a centre_n can_v any_o earthly_a sensual_a man_n be_v content_a with_o a_o inheritance_n in_o reversion_n so_o as_o to_o suspend_v his_o mind_v and_o follow_v of_o the_o world_n till_o hereafter_o can_v any_o ambitious_a spirit_n who_o place_v his_o main_a happiness_n and_o contentment_n in_o popular_a estimation_n and_o worldly_a greatness_n be_v content_a to_o stand_v gaze_v at_o preferment_n will_v he_o be_v willing_a to_o sit_v still_o and_o wait_v till_o this_o drop_n into_o his_o mouth_n no_o no_o there_o be_v a_o rage_a thirst_n in_o the_o soul_n which_o will_v not_o suffer_v it_o to_o be_v at_o rest_n but_o be_v still_o awaken_n and_o provoke_v all_o the_o power_n of_o the_o whole_a man_n till_o they_o arise_v and_o fetch_v in_o water_n to_o quench_v it_o and_o therefore_o we_o read_v of_o man_n
that_o all_o man_n in_o the_o world_n do_v live_v in_o god_n act._n 17._o 28._o yet_o it_o be_v also_o true_a that_o most_o man_n as_o the_o same_o apostle_n speak_v elsewhere_o do_v live_v without_o god_n in_o the_o world_n have_v their_o heart_n stake_v down_o to_o one_o creature_n or_o other_o and_o so_o fall_v short_a of_o this_o honourable_a character_n which_o the_o apostle_n here_o give_v of_o godly_a man_n our_o fellowship_n be_v with_o the_o father_n and_o with_o his_o son_n jesus_n christ_n and_o now_o i_o shall_v wrap_v up_o the_o remainder_n of_o this_o discourse_n in_o a_o humble_a request_n and_o earnest_a expostulation_n reckon_v not_o upon_o any_o happiness_n below_o this_o communion_n there_o be_v many_o thing_n which_o a_o christian_a may_v take_v to_o be_v comfort_n but_o only_o one_o this_o one_o that_o he_o ought_v to_o take_v to_o be_v the_o happiness_n of_o his_o life_n i_o design_v not_o to_o speak_v any_o thing_n to_o the_o prejudice_n of_o natural_a or_o civil_a ornament_n or_o accomplishment_n much_o less_o to_o the_o disparagement_n of_o any_o of_o those_o endowment_n or_o employment_n which_o be_v in_o a_o sense_n spiritual_a common_o call_v gift_n and_o duty_n but_o i_o must_v confess_v it_o be_v one_o of_o the_o great_a wonder_n of_o the_o world_n to_o i_o to_o see_v such_o a_o noble_a and_o intelligent_a be_v as_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n be_v attending_z to_z and_o pursue_v after_o thing_n either_o extrinsical_a or_o inferior_a to_o itself_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n careless_o forget_v or_o wilful_o reject_v its_o main_a happiness_n principal_a end_n and_o proper_a perfection_n as_o for_o those_o sensual_a person_n those_o mere_a animal_n who_o soul_n be_v incarnate_a in_o their_o sense_n and_o seem_v to_o perform_v no_o high_a office_n in_o the_o world_n than_o the_o soul_n of_o beast_n that_o be_v to_o carry_v about_o their_o body_n who_o value_v themselves_o by_o their_o body_n or_o which_o be_v base_a by_o the_o apparel_n that_o clothes_v they_o or_o the_o estate_n that_o feed_v they_o i_o shall_v not_o now_o trouble_v myself_o about_o they_o but_o leave_v they_o to_o be_v chastise_v by_o seneca_n or_o plutarch_n or_o indeed_o any_o ordinary_a philosopher_n i_o shall_v rather_o apply_v myself_o a_o little_a to_o a_o sort_n of_o high_a spirit_v people_n who_o by_o a_o 〈◊〉_d d●-scension_a of_o charity_n we_o call_v christian_n who_o value_v themselves_o by_o external_a profession_n privilege_n performance_n may_v indeed_o be_v say_v to_o be_v somewhat_o more_o scrupulous_a and_o curious_a but_o no_o less_o mistake_v than_o the_o former_a for_o if_o the_o grosser_n sort_n of_o sensualist_n do_v deny_v and_o profess_o abjure_v their_o own_o reason_n and_o the_o fine_a sort_n of_o hypocrite_n do_v more_o cunning_o bribe_v they_o each_o method_n amount_v to_o no_o more_o than_o a_o cheat_n and_o both_o party_n will_v be_v alike_o miserable_a save_v that_o the_o latter_a will_v be_v somewhat_o more_o torment_v in_o ●issing_v of_o a_o happiness_n which_o he_o l●●ked_v and_o hope_v for_o it_o be_v not_o proper_a to_o my_o present_a discourse_n to_o speak_v so_o high_o and_o honourable_o of_o these_o external_o of_o christianity_n nor_o to_o press_v unto_o they_o so_o zealous_o as_o i_o do_v at_o all_o time_n when_o i_o have_v occasion_n for_o i_o do_v very_o value_v all_o ordinance_n of_o christ_n and_o duty_n of_o god_n worship_n at_o a_o high_a rate_n nay_o i_o know_v not_o any_o serious_a and_o true_o godly_a soul_n in_o the_o world_n but_o be_v of_o this_o same_o profession_n with_o i_o but_o i_o must_v confess_v i_o think_v it_o be_v one_o of_o the_o great_a and_o most_o pernicious_a cheat_n in_o the_o world_n for_o man_n to_o feed_v upon_o the_o dish_n instead_o of_o the_o meat_n to_o place_v their_o happiness_n in_o those_o thing_n which_o god_n have_v only_o appoint_v to_o be_v mean_n to_o convey_v it_o this_o be_v the_o great_a destruction_n of_o the_o jewish_a church_n by_o this_o they_o perish_v thus_o they_o be_v every_o where_o describe_v in_o scripture_n as_o a_o people_n rest_v in_o their_o privilege_n and_o performance_n boast_v of_o their_o sacrifice_n and_o temple-service_n they_o make_v account_n of_o a_o strange_a kind_n of_o flesh-pleasing_a heaven_n something_o distinct_a from_o they_o and_o reserve_v for_o they_o to_o be_v give_v they_o by_o way_n of_o reward_n for_o the_o righteousness_n which_o themselves_o have_v wrought_v by_o the_o power_n of_o their_o own_o freewill_n which_o freewill_n they_o say_v be_v a_o effect_n of_o man_n fall_n but_o they_o make_v it_o a_o cause_n of_o man_n rise_n for_o now_o he_o can_v purchase_v and_o merit_v a_o happiness_n which_o happiness_n be_v also_o more_o illustrious_a than_o that_o give_v of_o mere_a grace_n which_o righteousness_n if_o we_o look_v either_o into_o their_o own_o writing_n or_o god_n writing_n concern_v they_o we_o shall_v find_v be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o strict_a observance_n of_o the_o precept_n of_o the_o law_n according_a to_o the_o letter_n and_o external_a dispensation_n of_o it_o such_o a_o low_a and_o legal_a spirit_n be_v general_o find_v among_o the_o jew_n i_o wish_v the_o great_a part_n of_o we_o who_o be_v in_o profession_n and_o name_n evangelical_a be_v not_o find_v as_o true_o legal_a in_o spirit_n and_o temper_n as_o they_o be_v if_o we_o cry_v the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n with_o the_o same_o spirit_n as_o they_o cry_v the_o temple_n of_o the_o lord_n the_o temple_n of_o the_o lord_n our_o confidence_n will_v as_o sure_o betray_v we_o into_o a_o final_a misery_n as_o they_o do_v true_o indeed_o prayer_n sacrament_n sermon_n be_v somewhat_o fine_a word_n than_o the_o old_a obsolete_a one_o the_o law_n sacrifice_n ceremony_n but_o alas_o they_o be_v but_o word_n at_o least_o they_o be_v not_o god_n no_o more_o fit_a to_o terminate_v our_o devotion_n and_o affection_n than_o these_o i_o beseech_v you_o therefore_o christian_n be_v not_o mistake_v in_o this_o matter_n true_a christianity_n be_v not_o a_o notion_n but_o a_o nature_n that_o be_v not_o religion_n which_o be_v leap_v up_o in_o book_n or_o lay_v up_o in_o man_n brain_n but_o it_o be_v lay_v in_o the_o very_a constitution_n of_o the_o soul_n a_o new_a principle_n implant_v by_o god_n in_o the_o high_a power_n of_o the_o soul_n refine_n and_o spiritualize_v all_o the_o faculty_n thereof_o and_o render_v they_o as_o like_v to_o god_n himself_o as_o such_o a_o creature_n can_v resemble_v its_o creator_n it_o be_v a_o truth_n as_o clear_a as_o the_o sun_n be_v clear_a that_o nothing_o can_v make_v a_o soul_n true_o happy_a but_o what_o be_v wrought_v into_o the_o nature_n of_o it_o and_o that_o must_v be_v somewhat_o more_o excellent_a than_o itself_o and_o that_o can_v be_v nothing_o less_o than_o something_o divine_a even_o the_o image_n of_o the_o bless_a god_n if_o you_o be_v christian_n in_o deed_n and_o in_o truth_n value_v all_o the_o ordinance_n of_o god_n and_o the_o duty_n of_o christian_a religion_n but_o value_v not_o yourselves_o by_o these_o your_o happiness_n by_o these_o attend_v upon_o they_o all_o for_o the_o maintain_n and_o increase_n of_o real_a fellowship_n with_o god_n for_o though_o these_o be_v not_o it_o yet_o they_o a●●_n the_o way_n wherein_o it_o please_v god_n 〈◊〉_d give_v it_o drink_v the_o sincere_a 〈…〉_o the_o word_n but_o let_v it_o be_v only_o 〈…〉_o holy_a design_n of_o grow_v thereby_o of_o grow_v up_o into_o god_n and_o a_o divine_a life_n away_o with_o those_o low_a and_o base_a thought_n of_o happiness_n the_o happiness_n of_o a_o soul_n be_v a_o high_a and_o excellent_a indeed_o a_o divine_a thing_n it_o be_v in_o some_o sense_n common_a to_o god_n and_o the_o soul_n god_n be_v happy_a in_o himself_o alone_o and_o the_o soul_n can_v only_o be_v happy_a in_o he_o what_o contentment_n what_o real_a happiness_n christian_n can_v the_o rise_n of_o thy_o party_n in_o the_o world_n or_o the_o rise_n of_o thy_o name_n in_o the_o country_n bring_v thou_o if_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n thou_o thyself_o harbour_v any_o carnal_a will_n self-interest_n that_o do_v rise_v up_o in_o opposition_n to_o the_o pure_a and_o perfect_a will_n and_o nature_n of_o god_n how_o be_v thou_o happy_a in_o thy_o prayer_n if_o thou_o cast_v sin_n out_o at_o thy_o mouth_n and_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n a_o fountain_n of_o iniquity_n be_v spring_v up_o in_o thy_o heart_n what_o avail_v it_o towards_o a_o state_n of_o perfection_n to_o be_v of_o the_o most_o orthodox_n opinion_n the_o honest_a society_n the_o fair_a profession_n the_o most_o popular_a and_o sanctimonious_a form_n or_o the_o most_o plansible_a performance_n either_o the_o soul_n be_v in_o the_o mean_a time_n alienate_v from_o the_o life_n of_o god_n and_o feed_v upon_o some_o earthly_a trash_n or_o other_o which_o destroy_v the_o native_a power_n and_o vigour_n of_o it_o and_o keep_v it_o under_o a_o perpetual_a languor_n even_o just_a so_o much_o as_o a_o silken_a stocking_n upon_o a_o gouty_a leg_n or_o a_o princely_a diadem_n upon_o a_o ache_a head_n avail_v towards_o a_o state_n of_o ease_n and_o foundness_n and_o ●u●rasie_a of_o body_n let_v nothing_o limit_v year_n ambition_n but_o a_o state_n of_o godlike_a perfection_n let_v nothing_o set_v bound_n to_o your_o love_a and_o long_a soul_n but_o a_o real_a fruition_n of_o god_n himself_o nay_o let_v not_o that_o bind_v they_o neither_o but_o the_o more_o you_o enjoy_v see_v and_o cast_v the_o more_o let_v your_o love_n be_v strengthen_v after_o the_o manner_n of_o fire_n which_o the_o more_o it_o be_v feed_v the_o more_o hungry_a and_o devour_a it_o grow_v in_o a_o word_n let_v nothing_o satisfy_v you_o low_o than_o the_o high_a character_n that_o can_v be_v give_v of_o mortal_a ma●_n to_o be_v man_n after_o god_n own_o heart_n to_o have_v god_n dwell_v in_o you_o to_o be_v fill_v with_o his_o fullness_n to_o have_v this_o real_a and_o excellent_a communion_n with_o the_o father_n and_o with_o his_o son_n jesus_n christ_n to_o who_o be_v all_o honour_n praise_n and_o glory_n for_o ever_o and_o ever_o finis_fw-la