to my Pâ—â— in His strengh I count all things loss 〈◊〉 Him Who is my LORD My Love aâ— my Choice I believe LORD help 〈◊〉 Unbelief I renunce all affection to Sâ—â— and the Life which I now live is by Faâ—â— in the Son of GOD I choice the way 〈◊〉 Righteousness which produceth peace anâ— Assurance for ever This builds our houâ— upon the Rock when we can say with St. Paul I know in Whom I have trusted that he 〈◊〉 able to keep that I have committed to His trust A diligent and constant endurance is faireâ—â— for the full assurance GOD is sure CHRIST is fixed the Covenant is steddy and duty the plain way to serenity and peace labour then to ensure unto your selves this inneffable Joy which is calcuâ—ed to the highest aspiration of our imâ—â—rtal Souls The Prayer O Exalted King who dwelleth in the Emperial Heaven I long to be happie with thee â—ake my Soul humble siaâ—ere and contrite to a spiritual Throne to the High and exalted â—e Purifie and clarifie my Heart and Nature â—at I may be fitted to feed on these pleasures at â—hy Right Hand for ever set up Heaven in me â—at I may be ripe for Heaven give me to feel the â—wer of the other World and to be an overjoyed â—itizen of Zion and be the LORDs free Man â—or ever Amen STAGE Third Treateth of such things as the serious Consideration of Eternity should suggest ss 1. The best way to conceive Eternity is to read the WORD that endureth for ever and to improve our short time and well digest in our mind What will be for ever more it is impossible in this mortal state to have full conceptions of Eternity for we Roll in a course of time Oâ— thoughts are measured by dayes aâ— years We should not therefore too muâ—â— by speculation pore upon this Vast Eâ—pansion least instead of clear conceptioâ— we turn confused Rest therefore 〈◊〉 mind in these modest considerations I. thâ— Eternity is the Oâ—b of the Eternal GOâ— as by searching we cannot find out thâ— Almighty for no man can see GOD aâ—â— live so we cannot conceive of Eterniâ—â— It is only Faith that gets satisfaction 〈◊〉 this matter while Curiosity lyes in thâ— dark Eternity is much hidden from Mâ—â— tals therefore we should not enquire 〈◊〉 it since it is hidden Look well then 〈◊〉 thy duty in order to Eternity and leaâ—â— the uptaking till thou be more capacitaâ—â— by the Beatifick vision delay till thoâ— come to Eternity and then thou shall be satisfied be very busie here because thoâ—â— woâ—ks for Eternity ss 2. 2ly After this life we shal be like thâ— Angels of nimble conception but noâ— such knowledge is too high for us it 〈◊〉 supra nos in the instant of our life and theâ—â— fore as to speculation Non ad nos in thâ—â— â—nterim of time We can scarcely conâ—â—eive of time much less of Eternity our â—â—ith prompâ—s us to Prepare for Eternal life â—â—t not to stand and pore in the Sun â—â—ast we dazel our Eyes and fall in the â—â—itch It is our Wisdom then to number â—â—wr dayes in time because we cannot number the Ages of Eternity these two words Never and Ever have great emphasis O sad To be never happy and ever miserable O Blesâ—ed thing to be ever happâ— and never miserable Sow then the good seed for Eternity and fix thy house so in time as to bring thee through all the storms of life to have a house with GOD Eternal in the Heavens lay up treasure â—oâ— your self in heaven which may mantain you World without end work with intense projects for Eternity every seed we sow in our finite life tends to infinity and let a sinner be still stated in his formercirumâ— stances he would sin in infinitum and never cease to be evil And this is the reason that some of the School men give for the Eternal punishment of sin For a sinner as a sinner would live in a perpâ—tual emnitâ— against GOD but the seed sown by the Godly has a great vertue to spring in time and last to Eternity where Grace is crowned with Glorâ— We should therefore like Noah build aâ— Ark to carry us through the storms of Lifâ— and make us arâ—ive on a mountain muâ—â— more fixed than Ararat there to dwell 〈◊〉 Eternal Splendors for Mount â—ion 〈◊〉 not be removed Exâ—rcise then your Graâ— aright that your Faith may end in seâ— ing your hope in Fruition and your labour in Rest The Prayer LORD GOD of Eternal Perfection 〈◊〉 Glory before the World was shined and â—â—dures to Eternity fix my wavering mind to center and repâ—se in thee and lâ—t never thâ— Transitorie Pleasures of this Life hinder me froâ— a vigorous pursuit of these pleasures at 〈◊〉 Right Hand which are for evermore Giâ—â— me to be a person of a large Heart and high desigâ—s above the World that I may work for Eternitie and through Thy Grace be so happie as to enjoâ— Thee O Eternal GOD World without End Amen STAGE Last The Contents A Lamentation for the sad decay of Religion and Apologie for the Devotion used in this Treatise with a Vale to the World And all sweetened with suitable Devotion ss 1. I Should thus concluded were not that I cannot well ommit to vent my Lamentation for the great neglect and decay of practical Religion and speak something concerning the Devotion used in this Treatise ss 2. And First Of that Pathetick threne and regrate for the great Declension of Christian piety and practice which has been well handled by an unknown Author and others some years ago But alas time hath still produced great Causes of Regrate For such is the Impietie Irreligion and immoralitâ— of the most part of men under the Christian Name that the first Propogators of this excellent Religion so perfective of humane Nature would now misken the Christian Chutch and see nothing but a Rudera and Confusion in stead of the well compact beauty of Zion For even they that pretend to be the true Church and would inhance the whole Prerogatives thereof to their own Romisâ— Sect What errors of Doctrine What corruption of Worship What Iameness of Morals is among them I leave it to any such serious men as travels into these places What darkness and ignorance What prophanity What leaudness and abomination is there is but too Visible to all the World Moreover that Church that carries that Glorious Name of Protestant and Reformed is much deformed and degenerate in manners from the practice of the purest primitive times And GODS Laws are violated by a pâ—ophane age Christs Gospel Offices in stitutious and Ministers are all vilified contemned dissowened and almost utterly rejected by our licentious Age and wicked Generation O What boldness of Men affrontedly in the fâ—ce of the Sun to incroatch invade all things Sacred what swearing for swearing what profanity what peâ—jurâ— does the great part of the Chrisâ— tian World
manifest that not like Moses in a â—iâ—t of Zâ—al breaks both Tables but in a course of iâ—pious madness they say Come let us break the bonds of the Lord and His Anointed assunder They have said in their hearts that there is no GOD and as to the Universal decay of Religion it may be now said comparatively There is none that doth good no not one And they act the worst of crimes habitually and with freedome they deny GOD by their works and so live as if they had a new Creed and espoused the Anathema of another Gospel to believe and so live as if GOD had forsaken the Earth Ezek 9. 9. and tâ—at he Whose Eyes see and his Eâ—e-lids try the Children of Men did indulge and allow them to lick up the Vomit that the Heathen hath cast our and to be much more wicked than their Fathers Follow the most of men even to that peece of Formality which is all their Religion in coming to the Church ye may hear some of them cursing swearing laughing raging as men intoxicat with Mammon and Sensuality Behold them in the Church â—ou shall see them as dull as the seats they sit upon And follow them from the Church ye shall find some of them haunting the Tavern and others wandering and erriâ—g as if they had not a GOD to fear nor a Soul to save And amongst many as little Religion in their Family as among their Oxen Isaâ— 1. 3. Is not this then a Lamentation and for a Lamentation Is not the LORDS Wrath to be feared that he will be avenged on such a Nation 〈◊〉 â—bis The World now in the last times is secure as the old world before the Deluge and that which aggravates all â—ew or none lay it to heart § 3. It will not he amiss then modestly to enquire into the Case The Cause and the Cure or Remedy of this sad declension oâ— the Church § 4. First The Case is both sad and singular against such Grace such Light and such wonderous Demonstration of the Love of GOD to Man to sin against Love Light and Mercy and all the Endearments of Heaven to sin against the Coming of the LORD JESUS His Word His spirit His Blood and Powerful Intercession The sin of the old World had itâ— own aggravation that it was Epidemick that all flesh had corrupted its way and against the Pathetick Preaching of Noab before the Deluge The sin of the Jews was also very great against the Indulgence and the peculiar Instances of Mercy to that people that GOD in a manner in the ordinary strains of reclaiming people Could not done more Isa 5. 5. and it was their great gratitude that makes the LORD by His Prophet complain That he had nourished and brought up people that had rebelled against Him which is such an amazing transgrâ—ssion that it maâ— be very well with the Prophet expostulated Be astonished O ye Heavens c Isa 1. 2. For my people hath committed two evils they have forsaken Me the Fountain of Living Waters and digged to themselves broken Cisterns that can hold no water And altho GOD did punish them with the Assyrian and Babylonish Rod. after which upon their Repentance Hâ— restored them yet when the cup of their sin came to the brim as that of the Ammonites before them He did with great Indignation destroy that City and People and abandoned them to perpetual Exile Yet after all this there was some hope of Outgate a new dispensation to follow And the Son of GOD came in the flesh to save both Jews and Gentiles But good LORD Where shall the corrupt Christian appear that hath rejected Christ and the Glotious â—eams of His Light For if they escaped not who despised Moses Law Of how much sorer punishment shall theâ— be accounted werthy who have trampled under foot the blood of the Covenant What can they now forsee but look for a firy Indignation and havâ— nothing to stand in the gap against thâ— wrath of an angry God And if this Gospeâ— be not a powerful enough engine to cuâ—â— and heal them they cannot expect another nor other Terms nor another Heâ—venly Messenger to come down to savâ— them What remains then but Desperation and dismal dread our of that wrath which shall burn in great fervor upoâ— that Miserable Victim that exposed miscreaâ— that hath no Sacrifice nor Propitiatory to present but himself to be a miserable Viâ—tim to eternal fire and that which makeâ— this Case yet the more sad is the consideration of that inavoidable Judgement that cannot but fall upon such that have slighted the opportunities of Grace and sinned against the whole Series of GODS Love and infinite Mercies § 5. 2ly As to the cause of this sad Case it lyes in the corrupt Nature of Man which tho it may be closed up for a time when the Church is in Vigour yet as a sluse of Water that is restrained for a while to run it comes out with the greater force when it gets any liberty and makes the man like a Brute without Fetters to run at random and so they cast off the tyes of Religion and turn either brutal or devilish and take pleasure to greatifie their Lusts in the Expressions of the Irrascible or Concupiscible appetite and in Regard this Excellent Religion of Christianity Puts a stop to their Carrier If they were not deaf and unreasonable they Reject it while they grow worse and worse and sin without fear and keep theiâ— Delilahs in their bosom notwithstanding of the dreadful Threatnings of the wrath of GOD So that having their Eves darkned and being alienated from the life of GOD they run to all excess of Riot and work wickedness with greediness in which continuing in the frequency of use they habitually sin against GOD and cannot more change their customs than the Ethtopian can change his hew and beeing thus separated from GOD they are turned into brutal savagness with Nebuchadnezar and so provoke GOD to give them up to a Judicial stroak and leave them 〈◊〉 the GOD of this World to blind their 〈◊〉 least the Light of the Glorious Gospel should Shine upon them 2 Cor. 4. 4. Thaâ— as their opportunities of Light and Grace were the more ample being under the dispensation of the Blessed Gospel theiâ— Judgement and dreadful Declension from the way of GOD is the more dreadful and criminal That as St. Peter sayeth it had been better for them not to have known the way of Righteousness than after they had known it to turn from the Holy Commandment And being thus Stricken of GOD they are glad of licentious times and an armless Church that every one may do according to the Imagination of his wicked heart § 6. 3ly We may easily then perceive what will be the proper cure of this And that is that the Gospel of CHRIST and the Oeconomy of His House be received and punctually observâ—d for in effect the Gospel of it self is such a
their phansie who deny CHRIST's Offices Ministers Ordinances and Institutions will be so bold as to contradict it And therefore it concerns Parents Religiously to go about the Baptism of their Children and remember the great obligation they stand under for their pious Education And of Children baptized to reflect upon it when they come to any Knowledge and to improve it well by the Instruction of their Parents and Tutors whose serious Instructions grave Example and earnest Prayer for Young Ones may help to instill and drop in such Counsels into their easie and blank minds as may leave some Relish as a Vessel may still keep something of the tast and smell of the first liquor according to that Ancient observe quo semel est imbuta c. and this stage of our life may be reckoned to the fourth year of our Age. STAGE Second The Contents Of the particular care of Parents and Governours as to Children from four years old to twelve of studying their nature and genious and the inâ—â—â—ling and droping in some clear and common principles of Religion with the consideration of Regeneration and when the Children come to be about twelve years of age of their solemn Confirmation § 1. As the Children grows so should the care of their Parents increase towards them its dangerous to suffer the evil of their Nature to take rooting for then it will turn tenacious and obstinate it 's better to take the little Foxes that hurt their tender Gardens Cant. 2. 6. and by Religious conduct use the best means to Eradicate the corruption of their Nature and to correct that 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and disorder that is naturally in them by frequent and gradual dropping of good counsel into their hearts especially by fixing in them the common notion of a GOD and fearing of Him of honouring their Parents And withal to acquaint them with their Baptismal Dedication and in as much as is possible to open up unto them the mâ—sterie of their redemption through Jesus Christ and that not only they know to Repeat the Law the Creed and Lords Prayer But also to make them according to their capacitie to understand these Thus entereth Knowledge into their Hearts as a little Drop by frequent falling makes a cavity and hollowness in the stone § 2. Although the Spirit of GOD the Author of Regeneration like the wind bloweth when where and how he pleases Joh. 3. v. 8. And calleth some sooner some later yet is it not improper to set it down here for that same LORD that Blessed Babs can Sow the Seed of Grace in their Hearts And of this Regeneration I shall only remember Man of the Necessity Nature and Evidence thereof First as to the necessity Our Saviour is very positive Job 3. v. 2. and 3. Except a man be Born again he cannot enter into the Kingdom of GOD and no outward exercise of Religion can avail us without the New Creature the Old-man must be Crucified and the New-man formed and Nurished ere we can be fit for the Kingdom of GOD. And 2ly We cannot better take up the Nature of it than by considering the Author and the manner of his Operation in producing this Work It is only the Spirit of GOD that doth it so is every one that is born of the Spirit John 3. 8. Of His own Will begatt He us that we should be a kind of first Fruits of His Creatures Jam 1. 18. This New Creature then is clearly the Product of the Spirit of GOD Who doth this work mediatly by the use of means especially by the Word oâ— Truth and other holy Engines that he is pleased to make use of Yet is not this Work produced of any means but by the concurse of the principal Agent the Word illuminats and perswads but there 's more then Moral Swasion in this Work for GOD's promise in the Covenant is to put his Laws in our inward parts Jer 3. 33. They receive by their Conversion a heavenly seed which abideth in them that will not suffer them to sin as the wicked do John 3. 9. Whosoever is born of GOD doth not commit sin for His seed remains in him and he cannot sin because he is born of GOD. Yet as to the production of this new Creature it may be so secret for a time like the Infant in the Womb so clouded and over-powr'd by Temptation and Corruption that it doth little appear and it takes a long time ere it become perfect in degrees and visibly compleat as to parts althô the Child tho little and weak is potentially a perfect man Parents then and Governours should with St. Paul travel in birth till Christ be formed in their Children 3ly As to its Evidence the Apostle manifests it fully 2 cor 5. 17 Behold all things are become New The man is wholly renewed in Quality tho not in Substance so that he may very well say Ego non sum ego He hath a more generous spirit with Caleb a better heart with David a more shininâ— face with Moses and the lips of the Righteous feed many And tho no man caâ— make this Change yet is he exhorted to make him a new heart Ezek. 18 31. Thâ—â— is to use the means and well to consider that the spirit of GOD begets this neâ— Creature by the word of Truth Jam 1 18 That such may be a kind of first fruits of Hâ—â— Creatures and for himself to show forthâ— His praise Who hath called them from darkness to Light § 3. It is very promotive of Grace also when Children comes to this state of Life that they be Confirmed after they can give any account of their Creed and of their Prayers according to the Blessed Pattern The LORDS Prayer For we read frequently in the Acts of Confirming the Disciples after they were Proseâ—â—ted to the Christian Religion whereby the new Plantation was fixed and by a sort of personal Covenanting with GOD they were Engaged to His Service by their Voluntar Consent This is the practice of the Universal Church Which if simply done and not elevated unto a Sacrament is laudable and promotive of the Ends of Religion And tho it be quarrelled with by some in this Nation Yet if it could be got well done in every particular Parish Since the Bishop may not be alwayes Vacant it may be thought no Disorder for the Parish Minister every year as Occasion offers to do this in the presence of the Parents and famous Witnesses personally and particularly to joyn them to the LORD And if there were not alas too great incuriousness about matters of Religion a mean so helpful to the ends thereof may be put in use So to conclude this Point I shall Reinforce my earnest Exhortation to Christian Parents in behalf of their Children for this particular instance of their Care for their Souls and to remember Gospel Ministers of their duty as to this And since through the unsetledness of the Times it can
have no excuse to neglect Religion in thy most busie Employment It will be good also that thou be a keeper at home and be not like a Bird that wanders from his Nest Let no sinful diversion especially the Tavern take thee away from thy Trade And if thou enclines to Religion follow not the guise of the Times be not carryed about with every wind of Doctrine Rather follow the Faith of the Orderly Church For it is very dangerous for love to a Sect to cutt the Church and break the Staves of Beauty For as long as thou reels with this giddy humour thou canst not well fix in a solid course of Religion And Lastly Beware of Discord and Division in thy family For 〈◊〉 consumes the Substance thereof makâ—â— many careless and desperate is an Enâ—â—my to all thâ—iâ—t For A house diviâ—â— cannot stand § 7. And for the management bâ—â— of thy conjugal Relation and callingâ—â— must here in the beginning of thy settâ—â—ment Recommend unto thee domâ—â—tick devotion and â—amily worship a duâ—â— that none of the seed of Jacob should â—â—cline it being their Fathers practice whâ—â— house was a Bethel to GOD a little Teâ—â—ple for the LORD of Glory who hâ—â— this duty brought down to him from 〈◊〉 famous Grandfather Faithful Abrahâ—â— who is commended for the Religious Gâ—â—vernment of his Family whose steps 〈◊〉 sau treased a man much of Contempâ—â—tion at home And thô Jacob hâ—â— Greater incumbrance and a more nuâ—â—erous family Yet his house as well 〈◊〉 person was consecrated to GOD. aâ—â— not only the Jews but also Christiaâ—â— should follow the Steps of these Venerâ—â— Patriarchs to be lively portractures of thâ—â— vertues as Images of their nature Aâ—â— this duty is so proper to the family thâ—â— before the Church was enlarged 〈◊〉 Master or Father of the House was â—â—iest and did officiate in the dayly Sâ—â—â—ifice at home And when the Church 〈◊〉 made more ample it is constitute of â—amilies which if Heterogenius to the â—ody they are but useless and corrupt â—embers Whereas the Families of the Faithful are blessed of GOD And His â—rath power'd out upon such families as all not upon His Name Jer 10. 25. Joshua that great Capâ—ain of the LORDS â—ost did not suffer his military Affairs 〈◊〉 hinder him and his House to serve GOD tho all Israel should neglect it David after him in the midst of a Bloomâ—â—g State under the burthen of a Crown and Countrey Yet walked Righteously in his House And every Tribe Family is called to pray and mourn a part Zech 12. 13. And the Gospel hath set up this Duty clearly Christ hath promised to be among the midst of two or three conveened in his Name And we read of the Church being in particular Houses and the Centurion feared GOD with all his House Acts 10 2. And Christ hath made 〈◊〉 a Royal Priesthood and a Holy Generation And this doth rather prepare for than invade a setled order of a Priesthood Private and Publick duty doth not interfere and Clash Thou must not only pray for thy Family but pray in thy Family Is the LORD the GOD of all the Familys of the Earth and not of thine Shalt thou wish GOD a Catholick service and cutt of thy Family by schisme This were to joyn thy House to another GOD or else to have none at all Let all Houses then that Smoak Smoak with Sacrifices to GOD for the House of the Godly is under a special Protection his Eyes are open to their Prayers GOD is a Shadow and Covert over the Roof of such Families It 's good To declare his Faithfulness every night and his Loving Kindness every morning Psal 92. 2. Let the People praise Thee O LORD let all the People praise Thee And Lastly This Duty of Family Devotion may be called Ezekiels Sign and Mark that saves from the destroying Angel and if any trouble fall out GOD knows how to deliver the Godly out of Temptations This Family worship is the great Characteristick of a Christian it makes thy House thy Home and gives thee Repose in thy Perigrination it makes thy house a Dutyful Tenement to the Great Land-Lord it payes due Rent to GOD it is the Bond and Beauty of thy House and makes thy Family like Jerusalem compact together § 8. Let every Christian then Regard Domestick duty which is so necessary and useful to guide the family and to consecrate and cover thy house which if thou Rule well with discretion and good Government thou shall find some leasure if it were but as long as to take thy Brakefast thou may conveen thy family and joyn together and seek GOD it would never hinder thy business but rather advance it if thou pretend thy ignorance it is much to be imputed to thy own fault and the neglect of thy Soul And if you say it is not the custom of many of your Rank Alas You are ready to follow an evil custom but to imitate what is good you have neither heart nor hand yet I am loath to leave thee in such neglect and therefore for meaner Capacities I shall subjoyn the Practice of Domestick Devotion and family Worship The Morning Prayer O Eternal and ever blessed GOD our blessed Creatour Preserver and Redeemer the fountain of Life and the Father of Lights the Keeper of Israel who never sleeps nor slumbers this poor family falls down before Thee this Morning and with all humble Devotion praises thy exalted Name for all thy mercies to Mankind and to us and that Thou has protected and refreshed us the night bygon and raiseâ— us up this morning in any health and hope Glory to Thee who hast given us time to rcpent LORD give us Grace to repcnt and to work oâ— the work of our own Salvation LORD heal oâ—â— corrupt nature sweeten our humour and seasâ—â— our heart with Grace slay our corruptions anâ— give our heart a right set with Thy healing haâ—â— perfect our Faith and guide us by Thy Spirit Vphold us with Thy Arm Refine and â—â—our hearts and passions set a Watch at the dâ—â— of our lips be at our right hand we shal nevâ—â— be moved give us to set Thee alwayes before 〈◊〉 and while it s called the day that we harden 〈◊〉 our hearts but hear thy Word and Voice thâ—â— we may spend the rest of our dayes in Thy 〈◊〉 and sincere Obediâ—nce save us from sin and Satan the deceits of the World and all dangerâ— of Soul and Body LORD bless our Famiâ—â— with Grace Peace Comfort and Contentmenâ—â— Heal the Church rule the publick Governmeâ—â— of Chureh and State Bless the Parish withâ—â— Gospel Blessing strengthen our Pastor prepaâ—â— us for Death and Judgement guide us all our dayes by Thy Council in Thy fear grant us a blessed and happy End and hereafter receive us unto Thy Glory through JESVS CHRIST our LORD in whose Name and Words 〈◊〉 pray Our Father c. And in the evening again labour to Recollect
powerful Engine even the Power of GOD unto Salvation Rom 7. 16. that if it were not opposed by the petty power of Men and GOD may suffer this for good and holy ends it would certainly make a sensible change in the Christian World This Gospel not only pressing and propounding a pure Faith and also good manners and impartially distributing to every Rank their Duty It cannot be suffered in this Luxurient and Wantoâ— Age when the lusts of Men not the Golâ— pel carries the sway And further if thâ— methods of Christs Oeconomy for the government and the Education of His Disciples were not despised and not considered all would be observant of their Station and Relation But alas Baptism and Baptismaâ— Engagements are very little headed by Parents or Children and Confirmation is either not in use or not in force And the Keyes both of Doctrine and Discipline are cunningly thrusted out of the Churches hands and the great Men of the World will have it so and the most of Men hate restraint and therefore love to have it so but let the Godly humble and mourn for all this and pray that the Gospel may yet have its Native Power and the Sacraments and the Discipline of CHRIST have their Genuine force that the Church may be yet Patronised and become fair as the Moon beautiful as the Sun and terrible as an Armie with Banners Cant. 3. 6. Then would Religion shine in its glory then would differences be healed and good and bad be discovered then People would return to the LORD with their faces thitherwaâ—d then would GODS Day â—rdinances and Ministers Be punctually looked to and respected then would GOD be set up in the Houses and Hearts profession and practices of Men and a golden Age woulâ— be Restored that all the Godly mighâ— cry grace to the work and Glory to the Workeâ— The Prayer LORD heal a sinful World and a sadly corrupted Church and open the Eyes of the powers and of all people more to mind the things oâ— Jesus Christ Heal the Backslidings of this sâ—â—ful Generation and bring us out to the Light thâ— we may see thy Righteousness let the time even thâ— set time to favour Zion comeâ— and regard thoâ— O LORD the Prayer of the destitute who loves Zion even in the Dust Revive the pregnant Pâ—â—rity of Primitive Christianity after the dierfull declensions of many generations come LORD down upon mount Zion O Lyon of the Tribe of Judah and roar with terrour that all the wicked of the Earth may tremble And display 〈◊〉 banner for all that long and wait for thy Salvation Amen § 7. 2ly As to any Form of Devotioâ— used in this Treatise I need not apologize much since this hath been impressed upon the Rational World by invincable rable Arguments Only as to my Mite and Measure I shal desire you to consider First That by the Commandment of GOD himself Forms were used in the Jewish Church And not only the Matter but the Words were put in Moses's mouth by the LORD Num 6 from 22. to the end And at the resting of the Camp of Israel And by the Prophet Hosea returning Israel is bid take with him words Hosea 14. 2. And say Take away all iniquitie And the whole of the Jewish worship Sacrifices was directed by GOD in a constant form of Incence and Oblations And in the times of the new Test John the Baptist taught his Disciples the form of Prayer and Christs Disciples crave of Him the same direction who said unto them when â—e pray say Our Father c. Which Prayer was still in use amongst the Disciples of Christ as it is probably inferred from that of St. Peter If ye call on the Father c. 1 Pet 1. 17. Where probably the Apostle Judgeth it to be the constant custom of Christians to say the LORDS Prayer And the Primitive Church had it's Liturgies which hath been the practice of the best of Churches It were therefore Good that a novice sect of men that are so much against forms should not so superciliously imagine that doubtless they are the People and that Wisdom dwells with them And that they are only competent to Reform the Christian World in it's practice of Devotion for 16 Ages since they themselves use a form of Benediction and dimission of the people according to the Appostolick practice Tâ—â— Grace of our Lord Jesus c. And 2ly If it be considered impartially this doth not restrict Men especially Gospel Ministers to a Form but are allowed without doubt to express their mind to GOD in the method of their own conceptions providing it be done with gravity knowledge and great deliberation But it would be adverted that Forms do not stint the expressions of Mens Gifts and the Spirit of Prayer doth not soly assist in these extemporary Gifts but also doth Act in the Calm Element of an approved form since it is not the matter only but the heart guided by the Spirit that helpeth to a Right way of Devotion and it may be in Charity Judged that the devout praâ—ing The LORDS Prayer may do it with as much if not more of the Spirit than by an extemporarie Gift and I am confident The experiences of many deâ— vour persons will say no less So that it seems a Stupendious conceit in men to deny the constant use of that Divine Prayer uttered by the heart and lips of himâ— that was full of the HOLY GHOST And for my self I would Shrink to lay aside the use of these venerable and comprehensive words which are â—o be looked upon as the season and incense of all our Oblations And therefore I hope It shall not be thought impertinent to Summ up the matter of this treatise in all it's Periods and Stages into some particular Suitable forms which for clearness sake I shall ser down according to the six dayes of the Week and the LORDS Day The Prayer to be used upon Munday for Childhood OCreatour and Preserver of Man Thou made us and not we our selves Psal 100. And I was cast upon thee from the Womb Psal 22. 9. Thou madest me hope with an implicite Dependance while I was upon the Breasts O what a Blessing is it to be sanctified in the Womb and from the Womb This is a singular Grace indeed and all that are under the Rayes of the Gospel have the nearest access thereunto especially when by the happiness of Education it is early transmitted unto the Mind O LORD there have been myriads and millions of people before me And thou hast brought me forth in the last dayes and I am nothing but an empty Vessel without Thee I am lately sprung out of nothing and am nothing and have nothing and better had it been for me to have been nothing than want Thy Incorruptible Grace O LORD prevent me in the morning of my short day and Instill some Tincture in this new Vessel which may give it a lasting Relish Season my
fully made up in the perpetual festival which they shall enjoy in their Fathers house where we hope Luther and Calvin and their biguit adherents Having keept the main of Religion are now agreed And all the debates about Modus Rei the manner of our LORDS presence in the Eucharist are now settled and saâ—iâ—fied in the Celestial Communion Where all debates anent the outward policy of the Church shall evanish When we come to a continual Doxologie of the Trine-Une GOD anâ— aâ—tain unto the General Assemly of the first-born where also we hope that Papists who have walked suitably to fundamentals of Religion yet through the Unhappiness of their Birth and Education have been under a sort of invincible Ignorance shall join with the Protestant Where also we do charitably hâ—pe that many who are without aâ—d have answered their Light in Morality and have implicitly closed with the Mercy of GOD which takes in all the methods of its communication may come to share of the deepth of that Mercy which is the very Nature of GOD And that Tremendous Justice which rendereth to every man according to his Works and impartiaâ—â— Judgeth such as are under and such as aâ—â— without Law And particulary we hoâ—â— that all the private Contests among Fam 〈…〉 lys and Relations which have floweâ—â— from humour weakness temptations and incumberances of the World shall all be gone when the warm Flame of the infinite Love of GOD shall fill their Hearts § 15. Away with all biguit adherance to a Sect or Party since neither Papisâ— nor Protestanism Parity nor Prelacy will save us if we be not real Christians We ought indeed to search all things and hold what is best but withall we should not so much lean to our own understanding but follow after Charity that Ephraim no more vex Israel but all be joyned in one faith to the LORD § 16. Away with all fears of the frowns of providence for there is a wise disposer Away with all vexation about the troubles of Revolutions since we hope to be Citizens of a Continuing City that hath a Foundation Let us labour to vanquish the World by Faith and be still doing good and we need not fear what man can do ss 17. Adiâ—w all Relatives and Acquaintances We leave you to the â—race and Guidance of God Farewel Sun â—nd Mâ—on and that glâ—riâ—us Canopy of â—he Firmament bespangled with dividâ—d Lights For we hope to Live above â—he Clouds in our Fathers House where there is no need of the Sun because the Son of Righteoâ—sness is there we leave all the flowers and pleasures of an earthly paradise to feed upon the Tree of Life And last of all farewell beloved Body the Spirit and Voice of our Beloved sayes come we must gird up the loins of our Mind we leave thee to the dust but we hope to return-again for tho thou hast been corrupted by sin yet now sanctified by the Blessed Body of CHRIST we lay thee down as precious dust to be refined in the bowels of the Earth Our Souls can not be fully perfect without Thee therefor go to thy Dormitory and sleeping house till the last Trump sound and then shall we be made perfect in Soul and Body and be ever with the LORD The Devotion Suitable ANd now what clogs and fetters thee O my Soul thou sees what sin and the world can do linger not but arise for thisâ—â— not thy Rest look to the recompence of reward with Moses think upon the calmnâ—â— of a better life in the tâ—mpests of this fight the Good fight of Faith and GOD will give thee the Crown of Life Prepare for Judgâ—mâ—nt and Eternity for the Judge is aâ— the Door The Prayer LORD make up my wants and Remove what is superfluous in me adorn me with the Weâ—ing Garment and deck my soul that through thy Grace I may be able to enter in Courage Courage O my Soul for CHRISTS mercy and Grace iâ— before thee let not Death be Irksome to thee but LORD grant me the Wish that I have long breathed for to Die in peace and lay down my Tabernacle with joy and render up my Soul to GOD with delight I have seen an end of all perfection in the short span of my life I have seen the Glory of the World pass away like a Scroll there 's nothing certain but in Thee all flesh is Grass but thy word endureth for ever I have seen Riches flee away with the Wings of the morning and strength and vigour turn to weakness but Thou O LORD art the only sure portion of thy People I count all things loss for thee I have none in Heaven but thee and none is there on Earth that I desire beside Thee I aquiesce in thee as my Repose for ever Thou art all my bless and happiness for ever Amen The End AN APPENDIX The Pastoral legacy and latter will of a Gospel Minister to his flock in some Sermous upon 2 Pet Chap. 1. from v 12. to the middle of 16. Preached from the 2 Sunday of April to the 4th Sunday of June 1693. To the Reader Courtious Reader COnsidering the weakness and uncertainty of my life being under often Infirmities some years bygon to which I humbly submit and kisses the hand that smites me considering also the uncertainty of the times not knowing how soon I may be turned out I did resolve to leave this Valedictarie behind me for the good of my flock and of any that shall pursue it which I dedicatâ— to the glorie of GOD and the Edification of the Church and to my Reverend Brethren of the Ministrie Moses took hie leave of Israel and left directions after him Deut. 1. 32. So did Solomon Eccl. 12. 8. And He that is greater than Solomon our Blessed Lord had his farewell Sermon John chap 14 15 16 Saint Paul Acts 20 29. And. St. Peter here So I desire to leave my Flock with some Advertisement and monument of my care for them Sermon I. Containing the Compact Chain of our Holy Religion exactlie knitting the Priviledges and Properties of a Christian together in one link in the particle 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Wherefore I Shall leave it to such as write upon the whole Epistle to vendicate it from the false Aspersion of some who denyed it to be Canonical of whom Eus speaks in his Church history 3 Book 25. Chap Which indeed was very unjust since the Epistle savoâ—rs of its Author and the genious of Christianity So that its like whoever they were that refused it to be Canonick could not bâ—â— be among the number of those false Prophers mentioned by this Apostle Chap 2 d Vers 1. Or of â—hese scoffers of whom he writes Chap 3 d Verse 1. Neither shall I insist upon the design and scope of this Epistle since it is so clearly manifest to any that â—eads it mentioning the great priviledges and properties of a Christian and a preserv â—ive against false Prophers and
Scoffâ—rs at Religion So I come to the Text in thâ—se vereses which contain aâ— Application of the preceeding Doctriâ—e conecting the Privilidges Properties of a Christian in the particle Six Wherefore Quamobrem upon which account c. 2ly The Apostles care to inculcat the Truth upon the people to whom he writes 3ly The Sence the Apostle hath of improving the Opportunitie in doing so as long as he is in this Tabernacle 4ly The practical Knowledge of Death and Resolution with it 5ly His provident and frugal care to store his people with the Knowledge of the Gospel which they may improve after his decease so the Spiritual Paâ—â—â—tlayes up for his Children against the time to comâ— When he is gone 6ly The baâ—e and sure Foundation of Gospel Truth Verse 16. The First Clearly discovereth to us this Truth that the Christian who Doct pretenâ—â— to the highest Priviledges of his holy Religion must be accomplished with the true ppoperties thereof 'T is a special Art to advance practical Religion twist together the Christian priviledges and properties Our Crown and Our Claim Profession and Practice Promise and Precept Justification and Sanctification Glory and Duty The Race and the Prize and Labour and Rest The Gospel Net must be well knit and we must follow the line and threed of Duty Ouâ— Salvation is linked in a Chain there is a Corner Stone that knits the Building from the Foundation to the Top Rom 8 26. There must be the Prima Media Vltima We must begin proceed and perfect our Work for non progredi est Regredi To stand in our Religion hinders our Race We must add to our Faith Vertue for Faith without Works is Dead This is not only the Doctrine of St. Peter here and formerly Chap. 1. 5. 6. 7. But of St. James Chap. 2. And they both writing to the Jews had need to press this for that People spleeted upon the Rock of their Priviledges to whom St. Paul gives a Check Rom. 2 1. He is not a Jew that is one outwardly but he is a Jew that is one inwardly For a great part of the visible Church tests much here and are ready to say LORD LORD when they do not the works that he Commands them And so become partial in their Religion and leave the half of it unpractised they can take Christ for a Saviour but not a Sanctiâ—er And follow Him for Lâ—avs but nâ—t for duty and labour they can cry The Temple of the LORD Jer. 7. 4. But study not the new Creature They may keep the ordinances but not observe their designe and can be hired to help to build an Aâ—k but not to enter it 2ly All desiâ—e to be happy but all take not the Râ—ght way to happiness they leap after the â—nd but stand in the way and neglect the means that promove the end whereas true blessedness comes only to the Vndefilea in the way Psal 119. 1. And the Psalmist Jâ—â—ns justification and Sanctification together in order to Blessedness Psal 32. 1. Sin cannot enter Heaven no more a sinner but we must ascend the Mount and carry nothing with us that is defiled We must be meet for the inheritance for without holiness none shall see GOD Elijah's Charioâ— could not carry a wicked Ahab to Glory And the best must be with Elijah Purged by fire ere they enter the splendors of Glory GOD hath a Furnace to purge us a plummat to square us we must be pure and Refined ere we can dwell with everlasting burnings and tho we be not Justified by works Rom. 4. 6 4. Yeâ— must we be Judged according to our works For tho GOD justifieth the ungâ—dly Yet he only saves the Right 〈…〉 3ly Wherefore let us observe the scope of this Dying Apostle and learn App to make our Holy Religion practical foâ— by so doing we shall not only make ouâ— Calling and Election sure But hereby an entrance shall be made unto us unto the Kingdome of our â—ORD JEâ—US Christ And that we may be Glad to make this improvement the more Chearfully let us consider that this tends most 1. To the Glory of GOD. 2ly The Reputation of Religion 3ly To our own Good and the benefite of others 4ly It assureth our interest in Glory much more than all the instincts Enthusiasms and Raptures men can be affected with 1. This tends most to the Glory of GOD Our good works should be â—o solid and visible that they may show forth the Glory of GOD the light of Grace shines more and more unto the perfect day till it be more Radiâ—nt in Glory GOD's Glory iâ— the great end of our Religion and a Right conversation Glorifies him and tends to our salvation Psal 50. 23. Holiness pâ—oclaims the Honour of the thrise Holy Holy Holy GOD And GOD delights more in it than in Hecatombs of sacrifices We need not say with Moses LORD show me thy Glory for Holiness iâ— the very Ray and Beam of the Glory of GOD and the Divine Emanaâ—ion of that Light and life that is in GOD The Holy Person is the only Fruit bearing Tree and a holy Life givâ—s GOD the Glory discovers Heaven and perfects the Beleiver For without Holiness no â—â—â—an can see GOD. 2ly As Nothing disparageth Our Religion more than Hypocrisie so nothing advanceth its Reputation more than a well Qualified Christian for if once Practicall Religion did exert its Native Power and Qualitie it would commend it self as thâ— product of GOD it would appear a Wonder it would make the soâ—s of Men say with Pharaoh's Magicians This is the finger of GOD it would give us a more noble Spirit than the World Iâ— would make us the fiâ—st born of GOD and pattake of the Divine Nature it would make the Men of the World as St. Paul sayes in another case fall upon their face and say GOD is in it of a Truth it would appear no phantasm or contrivance to ammuse the World And would make the Truly Godly Religion as their bage and Cognizance and make Men say that this is the Work of GOD it would make us like CHRIST to be pure as He is pure it would appear to be no Superstition flowing from fear but it would appear a Lively Amiable and lovely Thing and attract Mens hearts it would make the Hypocrisie cast off his Mask the prâ—fane put off shame and the Formalist seck after substance and the Power of Godliness it would make Men Saints and turn Angels and be so excellent as to delight others Psal 16 2 And in fine make them elect and precious as their faith is 3ly This will also afford â—olid meat and the Kernal of Religion to refresh us it will be to us a Tree of Life and hidden Manna and more refreshing than the Nectaer and Ambrosia of the heathen Gods and when Christ is formed in us then have we Light Life and Comfort Then shall we eat the Kernal of Religion when the shell is
'le still advance and mend my pase in every Period 6 A monument I was and am of Grace and still remain I 'le Bless and Laud and never cease with Praise to say Amen A VALE to the WORLD § 1. FArewel to all the flattering hopes of Happiness upon Earth All that have been in pursuit of this Shadâ—w have been frustrated For all is Vanitâ— and Vexation of Spirit there is no satisfaction in the World separated from GOD And what portion we have of it from Him we must use it as the Means but not as the End Give me LORD the Vâ—ctory over the World by Faith that I use it well and never abuse it Let me never over value it least it undoe me and make me a miserable wretch of no Value ss 2. Away with all the follies of Childhood and all the prejudices of that imperfâ—ct age against what is Solide and Serious Away with all the indigested notions that flow from the simple Brain of such as have not yet well formed Reason and Religion § 3. Away with all the promising Notions which our Ruder Phantasies â—â—rm in this State with all the follies thaâ—â—â—ow in this Age with all Glorying in Strength Beauty Feature and Fawning Fortune with all ostentive Boasting of Gifts and Parts and even of Grace as it were ouâ— own since we have nothing but what we have received together with all Garnal phansie Fondness Folly and amorous conceits since Wisdom is the principal Thing it being only Solid and Permanent § 4 Away with all eggar desire after the World and all Covetous Court-ship of that Idol-god let it fall like Dagon before the ARK with all petted and fretting humour the Unruliness of Passion and all the Distempers of Youthfull Age and all discontents and disorders and anxious fears for our Provision with all carking Care anent the World let us study Honesty for falshood hath no feet and he that walketh Uprightly walketh surely § 5. Away with all Immaturities of Growing Age let us labour well get Good Seed and wait the Season of the Grace of GOD beware of the deceitfull World which is not faithfull in its Promises it is but a Cheat we should not believe it when it speaketh favourably for all that is in the World is but the lust of the flâ—sh of the eye and pride of Life and is Enmitâ— against GOD we should not love GODs enemy tho it pretend friendship § 6. Away with all impertinencies of our former Life for alas we have been foolish and dissobedient and too much taken up with vain customs of the World Ah how many acts the fool upon this Stage and do pass their time in a Comedy til their end be traâ—ical § 7. Away with all that discomposeth our reason that we may well conduct our Mind and Life and not to expose our selves to the floating billows of the Storms of this Life Learn rather to be Catholick and Uniform in thy Course and pray GOD to bring in our stâ—aying hearts and unite them to fear His Name § 8 Away with all debates and contradictions among Relations and let us be Careful to keep our Soul and house in order to guide our Spirit and Passion with moderation and patience even Under Provocations and not to trouble our selves much with the extravagancies of others learn to quench incident heats in converse and families let us submit one to another and comport with iâ—firmities and co 〈…〉 mit our cause to GOD least such fre 〈…〉 ing and discontents imbitter our ne 〈…〉 est Relations listen not to anâ— lust th 〈…〉 may feed the flame still keep Religioâ— and reason on your side Put awaâ— thereforâ— all Clamour ill speaking and Bitterness Kindly loving one another forgiving one another as GOD for CHRISTS sake hath forgiven 〈◊〉 § 9. Away with all â—â—iâ—kie policie to Circumveeâ— our Neighbouâ—s with all hastiness to be Rich and to compass the World for it is very uncertain and takes Wings and flees away and let ouâ— pursuits of it be with the conduct of Religion within the lines of equity and honesty otherwayes we maâ— find all it's Product to turn as a Mâ—shrâ—m or Jonah's Gourd let us be Anxiously â—areful for nothing and seek first the Kingdome of GOD and his Righteousness Matt. 6 33. And other things that are good for us will be added Let us never Glory but in GOD and be humble in our best Circumstances Let not the World go above it's Sphere least it take fire and Consume it self and us Study the Art of contentment How can any men complain that have GOD for their Portion and if we secure our intrest 〈◊〉 Christ then all is ours Solace thy self 〈◊〉 GOD delight in him and he will Give thee the desire of thine heart Psal 37. 4. and if thy Crosses be bitter and heavy they are the liker Christs if your troubles pinch you and put you in a manner to your wits end come out of your self and stay upon the name of God for he can give strength to bear the Temptation and a Gracious out gate and say with Jehosaphat I wet not what to do but my Eyes are towards thee § 11. Away with all murmurs under the burdens and infirmities of declining Age as pains of Body dimness of Sight dullness of Hearing Rehums and Rehumatisms difficulties of Breathing weakness of Stomach Obstructons Gravel Gut Feebleness and other incident Infirmities Let the GOD of Hope and Patience be your Hope and Strength and learn to exercise thy patience § 12. Away with all too Carnal Love to any thing of the World and if we have known any after the flesh Henceforth know we them no more § 13. Away with all doubts of GODS Mercy and fears of death providing we be unitted to CHRIST Rom 8 to the end When we cannot act much let uâ— take up our selves with Contemplationâ— and by Faith take a View of that Glory which is to be revealed that unspeakable Glory that is Yonder above in our Fathers House Let us draw Water out of the Well of Salvation in the Conduitâ— which GOD hath made to entertain a Communion betwixt HEAVEN and Earth Doubt not of any difficulty about the Intrigs of Providence for tho some of the Godly have been shaken with the prosperity of the wicked as David Psal 73. and Jeremiah chap 12. Yet settle your self that GOD can bring Light out of darkness and can make all things work together for the Good of them that love Him and that there is a day of Retribution and Restitution of all things when the Soveraign Judge will destribute Rewards according to these two Attributes of Justice and Mercy § 14. Away with all debates Divisions and contests in the Christian Church for now we pass to the Land oâ— peace to be joyned in the Harmony of love and concord where we hope the East and west Church in the beginning of Christianity it contests anent the feast of Easter is now