Cup which the Lord not only in this Imprisonment but before â—nd since the sad unheard-of suffering by Censures on my Name from professed friends which was the saddest tryal that ever befel â—e was made dearly sweet by seeing it to â—e a Cup that my Father gave me to flesh â—nd blood it was very sore for though my innocency was enough to bear me up For â—here declare it in the Presence of my Father by whose Love I live that I was and am as innocent * Meaning the Reports that are of me to be a Trapanner c. as the child unborn â—â—t that which made it hard 〈◊〉 bear was First It came from such â—â—at I deserved better and expected better and God required better from Secondly Not one of them that did report 〈◊〉 or believe that Report though I believe â—ere were a thousand most of which professed to walk by a rule yet not six ever came â—â—e a Brother or Sister to answer the Rule seeking satisfaction from me or to restore 〈◊〉 if it had been true Thirdly It made many that I hope fear God though mistaken and out of their Duty to be so full of anger at me that they have called me behind my back strange names and wished that God had taken me away seven years before so sin begot sin at a high rate Fourthly They did by this add to the National sins that great Sin the Prophet mentions in Jer. 20.10 Report and we will report O the sence of this Sin and that I must be the object did even sink my soul till God let me see his Pleasure and that this suffering did most answer my sins having more worded away my day than workt it away besides I had a great Name and was highly esteemed among many in which I did triumph and in all this my Name was great but my Nature as to Grace but little upoâ— which wing I flew high Now God saw good for me to drink this Cup as the way to meet with my sin and to bring down to Name to be as little as my Grace As soon ever God shewed me this I kissed thâ— Cup. Fifthly Before I saw this my heart wiâ—â— restless judging my self so wronged beinâ— innocent that I found it a hard thing to keeâ— my heart in a right frame but reasoning anâ— rising up and when I reproved my owâ— heart the reply was Am I not innocent aâ— so wronged then God replyed and said Is it good to be angry and my reply was It is not Anger but Zeal for God's Name suffers also but when I saw as David did God bid them curse I was dumb and for the reasons aforesaid I lay down and kissed the Cup. Sixthly The Evil that did attend this was I seeing such unfaithfullness and disorder in professing People was ready to say Is there â—ny faithful or upright that I began to question all Societies in that kind and after I had sent to many because they would not orderly send or come to me and most of all I sent for went away as they said satisfied and at last I began to slight giving satisfaction to avoid many things that I might not otherwise avoid that may give offence which if I failed it was in that and though their disorderly wayes was the cause the sence of which may very well make them bear it yet their thus dealing was no just ground in God's eye for me to be s careless and since God hath brought my heart to see his just ends in their unjust wayes and to bring â—e into a satisfactory silence I have been wounded for it and I do beg of God for my self and all that fear God that in and under all such Sufferings our eyes may be kept close to eye God and not Men and to â—o our duty not because others do it but because God commands it knowing the righteous God will imbrace his season to reward every one according to their way and work So now I bless God my desire is to imâ—brace the Cup my Father hath given me anâ— to prefer his Pleasure before the preservation of my own Person If any who are ignorant should say What is this you mean that you have been thus falsely reproached in I answer 't is so well known not only here but beyong Sea for he or they who begun it and have sinfully devised it did send it up and down from Sea to Sea and City to Country that I need not repeat it but say again in the fear of God and as I expect mercâ— at the hands of the God of Mercy I am a little guilty as the Child unborn both in principles and practice but I leave it and if they who have so bloodily murdered mâ— Name have or shall have as much peace iâ— this Murder as I have now in the bearing oâ— it they will not want peace Secondly Should I further rip up the matter by repeating it the Sin of the Author might as much tend to God's dishonour aâ— they have caused God's Name to be dishonoured in what they have done so silence iâ— my duty lest also I return evil for evil contrary to my Lord's will Mat. 5.11 12 39. The next Scripture God did bring refreshment to my heart by since I came into my close confinement is Mat. 16.25 from whence I was made to see that it is an imprudent way for any Christian to go to save himself when Christ calls to suffer for him And it also shews the safety and profit of having a generous spirit for Christ If a soul doth freely so render it self up to Christs disposal not minding its own safety but Christs Service that soul shall not lose but gain Each word Christ here speaks is upon certainty If he will save he shall lose if he will lose he shall find it To save life and in a special manner a mans own life is in it self a duty the Law requires yet here it seems to cross it no no Christ only shews a new way to save life and that not upon uncertainty but certainty and direction how to do it 't is but leave and live that is leave all to Christ's dispose in his calling or disposing of us in his Service and Suffering if we so love Him his Interest and Cause we shall not we cannot lose but gain Now that there is no loss by losing all on this side Christ for Christ you will see if we consider these things First All that we lose in this sence in it self is nothing Prov. 25.5 it is said there It is not that is 't is nothing and in Amos 6.13 't is said to be a thing of nought that is it 's nothing and in 1 Cor. 7.31 't is said to be a fashion now fashions they change and that which is to day is not to morrow but passeth away so that if this be lost when as in it self it 's nothing what can be lost out of nothing Secondly Consider that
That heart that 's finally forsaken is not nor cannot be sensible that it is so but the contrary as Psal 13. 77.6 7. 4. They are not tender in point of sin but sin without sence As they in Rom. 2. 5. They do not nor cannot long for the returns of Presence for mind God never leaves a love and longing after Presence in a soul that 's finally forsaken if that be there there is Gods pledge to shew he will return 't is that that keeps possession for God till he comes see Isa 54. at large Jer. 31.18 19 20. There is many more but these also are such by which God hath comforted my soul in a time of dissertion Now there be some general Deceits relating to Conversion and the very body of Religion that I desire to leave to my Children and Friends and those Deceits are as follow 1. Deceit is When souls rest satisfied with something that 's like it and yet at that time and also before never passed under or know what it is to be inriched with the nature of the thing as thus Because Conversion is a change therefore any change because it 's a turning therefore any turning because it 's light therefore any light and because there is life and joy therefore if any it must be that Here was the young man in the Gospel deceived Mat. 19 20. And so the Pharises Luke 18.11 12. And so at the last day Mat. 7.22 2. Deceit is the resting satisfied with some thing that doth and must of necessity accompany the truth of the thing and at that time not see nor know it doth truly arise from the truth in them as the only cause as whether that love that comfort that zeal that sorrow that joy doth arise from the truth in them suitable to John 4.14 Rom. 5.4 2 Cor. 3.18 2 Pet. 1.5 6. 3. Deceit is When the soul doth rest satisfied in a bare saying or sight of the Truth both in nature causes and effects and yet then cannot witness either of them truly in themselves only things to be but not in himself in being like them in Jer. 8. apply 5 7 8 verses and Jer. 23.25 26 27. Rom. 2. 4. Deceit is When souls rest satisfied with their state though without witnessing the Truth truly within yet comparing them with themselves or some others that do more differ from the truth than they suitable to Jehu 2 Kings 10.15 and Luke 18.11 12. 2 Cor. 12. to the 17. 5. Deceit is When souls confidently affirm and are perswaded that they are truly inriched with the Truth and yet at that time they cannot witness those things that are unseparable concomitants of truth As First An universal conformity to Truth as David Psal 119.6 Luke 1.6 Secondly An universal Antipathy to all things contrary to it as in Psal 97.16 Psal 119.104 128.113 Thirdly A living growth in or growing up in the Truth Psal 92.12 Ephes 4.15 1 Pet. 1.22 2 Pet. 3.8 Fourthly A feeding upon it not that there is or will be a perfection in action or else no truth but where Life is in the principle there must be a growth in it and feeding on it these concomitants are or else that soul that lives in sence as it judges of having truth in it is deceived 6. When souls rest satisfied in the increase of some thing that doth accompany the Truth of Grace but see not nor have not an increase in the Power or Principle of Truth only in gifts or profession or outward conformity in their lives without or in language and rest there as if all were right 7. When a soul is brought to a sight of the want of Truth and a sight of the worth of Truth and so cries down the living without it and cries up the riches and glory of it and so rests satisfied in a bare seeing the want and crying up the worth and so contents its self in a bare sight and saying without witnessing that Power Riches and Glory in its own soul These Deceits are some of them that attend souls in relation to Conversion and the work of Grace within But there be some Deceits that attend Men Women in their external Walkings or Worshippings I will only hint a few As 1. When things though false yet in their outward appearance are named as God names such things in Scripture that are his true Appointments and so rest satisfied with the customary titles given to it and never search into the nature or truth of it as Preaching Praying Singing Baptism and breaking Bread c. because it is called so therefore it is so 2. Deceit is When the soul doth enjoy a true appearance or appointment and is taken up there in the bare appearance or appointment yet doth not know the true nature of it in its Life and Power 3. Deceit is When the satisfaction of and love to or delight in the nature of truth is only produced by and measured suitable to the measure of their performance or eloquence in it or the warmth and heat they draw from it and not from the light sence and true enjoyment of Presence But no more at this time Just at this time having a Letter from a Friend I shall leave off what I was going on in and in the next place answer that and therefore I think it necessary to write down the Letter it self and so go on in answering of it Octob. 9th 1663. Dear and pretious Brother YOU whom God hath made instrumental of much good to my soul for which I do bless God and do dayly pray that God would give you suitable upholds to carry you through all your sufferings with such patience as your sufferings call for I must confess in some sence they differ from most for not only I but many were at a stand to hear what Censures were passed upon you by such who appeared eminent for God But since I searched and saw they were false I am ashamed of my readinss to receive them These are to intreat your pains now you are confined to mind your promises in giving me the Heads of what you preached from John 3.16 and that from Phil. 1.23 24. about the Immortality of the Soul and a word or two what that Peace is that is purchased by Christ for Christians and whether a peculiar Grace or State and a word or two of the Difference between the Old and New Covenants In doing of which you will refresh the heart of Your loving Friend in the Lord. Now in answer to this Letter I shall begin with the Heads of what I declared of my apprehensions from John 3. the first part of the 16th verse For God so loved the World that he gave his only begotten Son From the words many rich Truths may be observed but I shall first observe something in general You must mind that these words is a reason of what in the 15th verse is affirmed viz. That whosoever believes shall not perish but have
well in all states and straits beleive what God saith and consider and reason with thy soul thus Do I want this or that well did God give me his Son the greater and will he withhold the lesser No no. Now mind some Particulars As 1. We may from this be certain of God's Satisfaction by Christ for all Sin for sure God would never have done this had or could there have been a Dis-satisfaction to have over-ballanced his Satisfaction Mind these Scriptures Mat. 13.11 c. Ephes 5.27 O see Heb. 10.10 12 14 17 verses and you will see this made clear 2. To assure us of the certainty of poor Souls Salvation Rom. 5.10 it is there fully asserted from this foundation 3. To assure us That there is no Enemy left unconquered for had any thing been too strong for God this work could not have been accomplished but nothing could nor was too strong for God neither Sin as Rom. 7. nor Law nor Death nor World nor Devil and if so look upon and encounter with all these as conquered before you encounter 4. It 's to assure us That the Foundation of Salvation is more sure than to stand upon such a weak changeable foundation as our duties or goodness is It 's done only and singly by God and the Foundation is as sure as he is 't is alone his rich Love and unchangeable Grace in Christ See the Text c. 5. 'T is to assure us and that with all clearness That God's Love to the worst of Sinners is as great as to Jesus Christ Seeing all this God gave up Christ to was to accomplish not his but their good see John 17.23 24 26.1 Tim. 13.14 O what Comfort is here to a poor soul consider what dear what rich what delightful Love was there and is there in God for Christ and what will this Love carry God to do for Christ do but mind it and then consider that that Love the same Love with all its Riches with all its Strength with all its movings is in the heart of God for me O soul lye down and admire this Love 6. To assure us That as God's Love was not caused by us nor moved or brought forth from any cause in us so it cannot be changed or destroyed by us certainly if Sins foreseen would not nor could not keep God from giving Christ sure when they are brought forth they cannot turn God and Christ from loving of us 7. To assure us in way of Comfort That the whole and full and sole work of suffering for Sin and satisfying of Justice for Sin is done by Christ so that what sorrows and sufferings do attend Saints there is no such end produced by it as to satisfie unsatisfied Justice but all that befals Saints are Fruits of Love to put away Sin Isa 26.9 and to give down more Grace Rom. 5 c. 8. It is furthermore to assure us and that of Certainty from all that hath been said That there is a willingness in God not only to save but to receive poor Sinners into his Grace and Favour or else he would never have given so much to accomplish it all his Cost and Labour declares this which you will fully see if you go over all that hath bee said And further to convince a poor sad sighing Soul of this Truth consider 1st Upon what terms God tenders his Love in Christ see Prov. 9.4 Isa 55.1 Joh. 7.34 Rev. 22.17 c. all is Free 2dly See how God doth beseech intreat and woo souls to entertain and accept this Love in Christ Isa 65.2 Cor. 9.10 Mat. 23. â—7 3dly Consider how long God waits upon poor souls for their receiving and entertaining of this Love though he meets with many Repulses Isa 65.2 Cor. 5.5 Jer. 15.6 4thly Consider how much God bemoans the creature that neglects to imbrace this Tender Jer. 2.14 Mat. 23.37 5thly Consider that after souls have slighted God's Grace and turned their back upon his Tenders and abused his Long-suffering and Forbearance yet if at last they return how joyfully doth he entertain them and not upbraid them See Jer. 31.20 Luke 15.20 Jam. 1.5 Further If thou wouldst see God's willingness to meet with thy desire and willingness minde these Considerations First Consider God is so willing that he woos us to be willing as I said before 2dly No soul is willing so soon but God's willingness was before him and his willingness is a fruit of God's 3dly No soul was ever willing and God or Christ unwilling Joh. 6.37 If anâ—â—â—â— come unto Christ he will in no wise cast hiâ—â—ut 4thly God is willing when we are not willing 5thly Consider That when God's willingness hath begun to beget in a soâ—â—â— willingness if the souls willingness makes him go God runs and if it makes the soul only say I will God saith I do Psal 32.5 O know soul that it is not possible for a soul to be really willing to be saved and God not to save it Did we know what is in God by what is done by God especially in giving of his Son we should believe more and fear and sin less There were many more Particulars that I observed from this Text but I have not time now to relate them only these I thought good in this my time of Confinement to write over in answer to your desire And I wish God may afford you as much comfort from them as he hath to me Amen Amen In Phil. 1. 23d vers with its dependance on the 22d vers and relation to the 24th v. The words are these ver 23. For I am in a strait betwixt two having a desire to depart and to be with Christ which is far better I shall not stand to open the words but take from them in general three Observations As thus Doct. 1. The true sence of the great Priviledges Saints enjoy by Christ when separated from the body of flesh with the consideration of the duties they owe to Christ in the flesh puts the heart in its desires to a great stand Doct. 2. In point of Priviledges it 's best for Saints to depart and be with Christ or to be with Christ is a Saints best being Doct. 3. That heart who doth truly affect its duty to Christ is willing to abide in it though by it he may for a season be deprived of part of his Priviledge And first of the first and in it mind First I shall shew you the certainty of the Souls separation from the body and that it dyes not with the body as some say but when it 's separated it doth enjoy Priviledges with the Lord Jesus Christ as is implyed in this word After I have done that I shall let you know in what sence the Soul is taken and also give you the Scriptures and Reasons that some have to prove the Soul to be mortal with a brief Answer to that And then we shall give you sufficient Scriptures and Reasons that there is
INNOCENCY Though under a Cloud CLEARED By P. H. a poor Prisoner when almost sunk under pretended Friends Censures in the day of his Sufferings And also A Discovery of the Comforts that attends Innocency in a Prison As also Twenty four Usefull Particulars left by him for his Children and Friends and being left in a Friends hand for his Relations I could not but make them publick judging it will be no loss to the Author and great gain to the Reader and justly give offence to none Prov. 18.17 He that is first in his own Cause seemeth just but his Neighbour cometh and searcheth him Isa 66.5 The Brethren that hated you that cast you out for my Name sake said Let the Lord be glorified but he shall appear to your joy and they shall be ashamed Isa 33.3 At the noise of the Tumult the People fled at the lifting up of thy self the Nations were scattered London Printed in the Year 1664. To the Reader IN all Ages Duties of Love to the Zion of God from them that have been able and faithful hath and will be truly imbraced by every Son and Daughter of God as useful profitable and necessary And I having the perusal of many of the Author's Papers finding this little Piece amongst them judged it worthy a conveyance into the world finding in it such glorious breakings-forth of Divine and Heavenly-Light I do not in the least question its acceptance of every truly gracious Heart who loveth Truth for Truth 's sake And Reader thou art here presented with the living Experiences of a poor Prisoner for Christ who at this day lies under very hard and sad Sufferings one who hath in former years been very useful in his Generation in the Work of God and also hath been an Instrument to bring in and to bring up many Spiritual Children to God And thou mayest see by this little Piece that his heart and soul is yet alive to the Work of his God That notwithstanding his Sufferings from the Common Enemies on the one hand and Pretended Friends on the other by their foul filthy and lying Reproaches and false Censures which God I am confident will in his due time 〈◊〉 away and then shall those false Accusers blush for shame True it is the Author might have 〈◊〉 more useful had it not been to the spirit of Envy which is riseâ— up against him in pretended Friends and open Enemies without any just occasion given on his part The dear Lord pardon them in their irregular proceedings with him and others I do verily believe to see the day wherein God will make him as useful to Saints as ever in Goâ—â— work I mean the Work of the Ministry of the Gospel of Jesus Christ then shall his Innocency be as the Sun at Noon and this Candle shall again be lighted to the amazement of his Adversaries and they will blush that have shâ—â— at the Innocent without acâ—use In the mean time let not â—he ill favour of dirty spirits hinder thee from imbraceing this clean piece of Truth held forth to thee The Phrases are clear the Matter sutable as to the day wherein we live that though I were silent the Book it self would speak enough for its acceptance Now all my desire is that it may be of use to thy souls health and prosperity of the inward-man And that it may be so by Heaven's blessing give me leave to give a few words of advice 1. Do not take that with the left hand of prejudice that is offered to thee with the right hand of true sincerity and singleness of heart Endeavour therefore to put a candid and fair construction as in charity thou are bound on his endeavour who hath nothing more in his eye than God's glory and the good of souls 2. Beg the leading of God's dear Spirit which alone searcheth and discovereth the things of God to the Children of men 1 Cor. 2.10 and so on Oh it 's this Spirit that can unriddle the Divine Mysteries of the Gospel Never think to reade this Piece in the worlds wisdom for if thou dost it will contribute very little to thy satisfaction but rather occasion thee to stumble at the things written 1 Cor. 1.18 and so on to ver 26. See 1 Cor. 2.14 3. Be not offended at the short and brief passages through some particulars treated of in it 4. Consider all the Scriptures and Arguments to prove any one point I say weigh them altogether and not apart one from the other for if there be but two or three Texts or Arguments amongst five or ten to prove the truth of any one point that are substantial and to the purpose it is sufficient though the rest are not so strong or of equal strength 5. Take heed of a heart rising in pride for it is the humble ones the Lord stands engaged by promise to teach Psa 25.9 Jam. 4.6 6. And lastly Beg Heavens blessing in thy reading of it and then I question not but it will be of much benefit to thee Thus having premised these few things I shall forbear to trouble thee any further only begging the Father of Mercies and God of all Consolation to make this following Piece effectuall to the enriching thy soul in the Divine Mysteries of God and a bringing thy heart to a real imbracing of these blessed Truths of God unfolded in it and to the accomplishment of all the good ends for the which it is intended shall be the constant prayer of him who begs the Exaltation of God's Glory and Saints Happiness above all things R. E. To the READER THis ensuing Treatise being by the Author left in a Friends hand at his Removal and it coming to the view of some that it hath been useful to they thought it worthy to be put in print for a more publick benefit being perswaded it will prove so to them that can without prejudice read and consider of it 'T is true there have been so many Censures cast upon him by them that profess to fear God that it may make many who search no further but believe Reports coming out of such mouths that they think dare not lie to believe all is as they say it is but he that knoweth all things will one day justifie him before Men Angels and Devils And his Innocency would appear in some things already did persons believe the sad sufferings he is still in though censured to be there but under a cover to betray some in those parts but prove not what they say or have said and yet they have from one time to another promised to do it by which means his Name hath been murdered the Name of Christ wounded and many a poor heart grieved that knows and hath found it so though others cannot or will not yet see it but it hath been no small comfort unto him and some that love him for what they know is of Christ in him to consider that the most precious People of God of old
were led in that path as Job how deep did he drink of that cup and that by them that pretended most high for God and seemed most zealous against sin And Paul David and others nay our blessed Lord Jesus that pure and spotless Lamb that did nothing but good how was he reviled reproached scorned and almost every action though it was never so much for their good was turned by them as a charge against him and it was not only by the rude mutitude but they that professed to walk closest to God's Will and were in his outward Institutions So it 's no wonder that such in this day deal so with his Servants that desire to follow him according to his Will as blessed be God this poor man doth though it 's like he may not in all things walk up to mens customs that in this day is very much a rule of peoples consciences but according to the just Law of God to whom he can with Job and David appeal for Justification it 's He that searcheth all hearts and knoweth all actions and nothing can be hid from his eyes by all the covers that imitations performances and applause of men can make and put on any to make them appear holy nor yet clouded by all the Censures that can be cast on the sincere but will judge righteously and render to every one according to their deeds but it s no strange thing that these last dayes bring forth such deceitful dealings by them called Brethren for it was foretold by the blessed Scripture that must be fulfilled every jot and tittle of it And being it is so we ought not to be too confident of the truth of a Reports because the Reporter may have fame among some men but let us search and see whether it be so or no and not condemn any man before we hear his cause for that is so far below a Christ-like Spirit that the Romans Law doth not admit of such a thing therefore let all that look on themselves to be Saints that may come to reade this little Piece be warned to take care that they hear the Accused as well as the Accuser and weigh things man equal ballance before they pass sentence lest by rash judging they come under reproof by the justness of the Romans Law And in reading let not thy eye be upon that dirt which is though unjustly cast upon him if so thou art like to reap but little benefit by it for God doth use to answer persons according to the Idols and Imaginations of their hearts but if thy soul be willing to imbrace Truth for the sake of the Father of Truth without respect or disrespect to any mans person I question not but what is here presented to thee by a poor suffering censured Prisoner may be found by thee worth the treasuring up in the Cabinet of thy Experiences and in a day of straits it may prove of great advantage to thee as blessed be God I can say it hath done to my soul and that not only in point of comfort but in finding out many deceits that attend poor souls in this world and in the may they may think leads only to Heaven and it will be enough for those souls that through all the deceits censures and sufferings that attend them in this life that do but arrive at that Haven of Rest where is nothing but a living in unity to all Eternity which will make amends for all their sorrows though never so great But were the Author of this Book as he is rendred I think it should be the work of those that revile him were they what they profess to be rather to pity and pray for him and endeavour his Restoration than to do as they do and have done by him for the punishment due to what they charge on him will be so great that any truly gracious heart can do no other but pity one that is like to undergo it and not envy any happiness that he hath in this world nor do what they can to deprive him of it as some have done by him but I shall say no more to that nor no longer detain thee from what followeth but leave thee to the guidance of the Spirit of Truth and if thou and I do but so walk that we may be justified by God t is no great matter what men judge of us which is and shall be the desire of thy Friend that loves all but desireth to delight in none but for their likeness to Christ Jesus Thine in Him H. F. To the AUTHOR and READER REnowned be they Name worthy of Praise And may it last the longest length of dayes And Praises to the Lord who only gives That Grace whereby thy soul in fuffering lives By which true Grace thy Spirit higher climes Than all Aspersions falsifying crimes Nor can they take that Honour from thy head If Christians truly understand and reade Who reads will find thy heart is not departed From Grace if weighing th' Truth herein asserted Which Demonstrations from thy suffering soul To all Accusers gives a grand Controul Come forth Aspersion Truth doth give a Challenge Thou canst not hold in such a weighty ballance It 's to no purpose let Revilings cease Who seeks his shame will make their own increase Nothing drops from his mouth and contemplation But what 's by ev'ry soul worth acceptation His words are sav'ry speaking prudently His nature's kind full of humility Worthy of prizing All his works are tending To good His actions alwayes well ascending Who can but own his Offering and Oblation Touching his Work done in his Generation To whom be given for his industrous pains All Preservation where true Grace remains With Grace to undergo his Firy Tryals To see the end of pouring forth the Viols And also of all Powers that are infernal And that exalt'd which only is Eternal I take my leave God's Blessing thee attend From him who cannot cease to be thy Friend R. J. To all that in Truth fear the Lord and are faithful Followers of the Lamb or any other that shall reade what I have in this time of my Imprisonment writ BEloved it is below a Natural Noble Spirit much more below Grace to stumble or startle at that which must be and what is daily looked for And lest my weakness in that matter may uphold others in that way and work I shall forbear to enumerate my unheard-of Sufferings and Censures and how much my heart though innocent was brought down by it lest it may be an occasion of some weak ones stumbling at the Truth It is the duty of all and every one of Gods People especially in this day to be a bearer of burdens but not a layer on of burdens upon others and in this to do it in uprightness without deceit There is much deceit attends the Truth that if Souls that walk in the profession of the Truth be not careful to watch they may as many do imbrace that
possess us a Deludge in which thousands of souls are lulled asleep and are kept from heart-work thinking all is right within because they are judged and do judge themselves to be right without and that it is so see Mat. 8.11 12. chap. 12.43 44. Mat. 13.20 21. Luke 13.25 26 27. Isa 58.1 2. Because in some of my Queries I mentioned the Sin of Covetousness which is a Sin that is as secret as dangerous I shall briefly here set down the Characters of a covetous-minded man either in rich men or poor men In answer to which first Mind what Covetousness is in the Eye of the Scripture it is an inordinate desire of Gain or Increase Now the Characters must be drawn either from the nature of Covetousness or from a frame of heart not contented with its state for Contentation is set by the holy Ghost in a direct opposition to Covetousness Heb. 13.5 Now in minding what hath been said of Covetousness the Characters of such a mind will the better appear First When they do by unjust and unrighteous Wayes labour to increase their Estates Hab. 2.9 10 11 Micah 2.2 Jer. 6.13 chap. 8.10 chap 22.17 Secondly When they do by any action declare their love to or longing after that which in anothers Deut. 5.21 Jos 7.21 Thirdly When the wants of poor Saints are seen by them or made known to them yet they are not free to communicate to their wants sutable to what God hath blessed them with Prov. 21.26 sutable to that in 2 Cor. 9.5 compared with 1 John 3.17 with Rom. 13. last part of the 9th verse Fourthly When they toyl and labour after Riches as by it they are made to lose their life favour in their language and service of God turning their Christian savour into sadness and losing their former forwardwardness and life in God's wayes by posting after the things of this life 1 Tim. 6.10 2 Tim. 4.10 contrary to Psal 119.36 Fifthly When the love of the world doth not only hold men in but take men off from the Service of God 2 Pet. 2. the last part of the 14th verse joyned with the 15th sutable to Isa 57. apply the 9th and the 10th verse with the 17th verse Ezek. 33.31 These five are to try Rich and Poor but especially the Rich And the Characters of a covetous mind in poor men follow First When they are not chearfully contented with what they have but would have what they have not Heb. 13.5 with a restless mind rising and reasoning against Providence 2. When they appear complaining or repining at their own Poverty by comparing their Poverty with others Riches This is well as the first is contrary to content and so therein Covetousness 3. When they are not free and willing to go on in any way or work for God unless they are by the rich so supplyed that they may be wholly freed from bodily labour Acts 20.33 34. sutable to such in 1 Thes 4.11 2 Th. 3.10 11 12. Now this relates to some but not to all 4. Mind what hath been said from â—oth and you will mind that strait-heartedâ—ess in a Rich man is Covetousness and Discontent in a Poor man at or with his Estate is no less for that which is contraâ—y to Contentation is Covetousness by the Lord so decided Heb. 13.5 c. Disquieted or troublesome or disconâ—ented demands of Poor men to be supplyed â—y the Rich is as sure a Character of Coveâ—â—usness as Strait-handedness in a Rich man â—e supply the wants of the Poor and both are 〈◊〉 be judged Covetousness O how much doth this Sin reign in the â—earts and lives of men and women that pretend much for God and are cryers down of others sins and persons for sinning and at the same time harbour this sin that is no less than Idolatry in their own brest Few or none but will say that it is a sin to own an Idolater in fellowship and that all true Believers are bound to withdraw from them and though Covetousness be the same yet how are poor souls satisfied or at least silent But I shall leave this and say no more to it Some Observations useful for all that fear God but in particular left for my Children VVHen ever a heart hath a sensible injoyment of God and his Love in Christ especially as a return of Prayers mind these things First Expect a fresh assault of Satan with high attempts to draw the soul aside either to looseness under that love or some other evil improvements When Christ was in the Wilderness and was inriched with high Inrichments of God he was presently set on by Satan Mat. 4.1 3 5 8. And as soon as Hezekiah Isa 38.5 was delivered and inriched with God's Love was presently set on to be tempted Isa 39.1 So let all that fear the Lord at all seasons but in an especial manner then double their worth Secondly Sin and Satan never gets into us and is imbraced but as Sin comes God goes and so Sin gets strength and the Soul gathers weakness If so Thirdly That Soul that doth not so much as resist Sin in its first attempts he may be confident he will be overcome O then take this from a soul that hath had experience Keep the watch most over thy heart thy eyes and words Fourthly It is easie to sin God out of sight but not so easie to pray him in If so O stand fast in God's Fear and when most injoyed let him be most prized and Sin most feared Fifthly Sin least seen is the most futile and hardest conquered Then watch and mourn most for that which is least seen Heart-Sin as to men seemeth least but as to God hated most Sixthly No soul seeketh for Pardon suitably unless he is as much and as eagerly desirous of Power against Sin as Pardon Seventhly Sins of Constitution are most to be feared Heb. 12.1 But when Sins of Constitution get into custome then Sin hath got both its wings only a mighty Power of God can conquer it O fear the Sin of Constitution as Death and Custome as Hell for if they once joyn they will cause the soul to fly out of sight of Presence and sight of Experience and all ability to return If so mind When a soul is there to go back it cannot to go forward is death and Hell so then all it can do under its loss is to shrink down into its empty nothing state and lye low in it self with its eye singly on Free-Grace in Christ Eighthly No heart thus truly lying low but is lifted up when up stand in fear sin no more Observations as to Duty 1. Lye low and pray till God come in but pray most when he is come in for the soul prays best when he injoys God most Call while he is near Isa 55.6 Psal 21.13 Cant. 1.4 2. A Soul doth not gain but lose by keeping from Duty for the want of the Life of Duty Observe 'T is good
to lye at the side of the Pool though we want strength to go in 3. 'T is proper for the soul when it prayes bests to judge it self to pray worst Observe Pride in Prayer eates out the heart of Prayer Experience is a good concomitent of Prayer but no way safe to be a Foundation of Faith or Prayer God's promised Word is only a fit Foundation for that work In a word Nothing can or is a fit Foundation but this which doth stand when all falls Prayer is a Duty God calls for and it is a way to acknowledge God but it was never intended to change or alter God but to change us and not force God but fit us for what 's promised and purposed of God for us That heart prays best that appears least in its own name or nature And that heart prevailes most that prays most in the Name that is to say in the true Nature of Christ Then we may describe Prayer thus Prayer is the exercise of God's Spirit in us pouring out the Soul to God in the Name that is to say in the Nature of Christ and in his Interest pleading with God for supply of wants in answer to his Will Observe So Prayer is the Language of God in us not to alter God but us not to beget new Grace in God but from his old Grace to bring down renewed supplies to us Observe He prayes best that stands least in his own will Observe The way to keep a heart from sinful listings up in Prayer is truly to know the Life of Prayer is not its own but comes down from God before it is in him Observe Nothing prevails with God but what 's his own therefore prevailing Prayer is not ours but God's The true sence of this layes down what the Devil by duty would lift up that heart seldome prevailes by Prayer under temptatation straits and difficulties that keeps its eye upon the Difficulties and not on a Promise That Faith or Prayer honours God best that trusteth and eyes God most in the face of a seeming impossibility That soul is most prevalent with God in Prayer that seeth nothing out of God capable to help or answer Prayer So much concerning Prayer Let me now speak a word of Advice to my Relations and Friends as to the Deceit that attends men and women in their Affection of Love 1. Be careful in loving Sanits that you love them as Saints if so you will love them best in whom you see most of Christ and Grace though strangers other wayes to you 2. They that are most faithful and downright in reproving you for sin or neglect of duty to Christ are the fitest objects of a Christians Love and when there is least Deceit in thy love these will be not least but most beloved 3. That Love is commonly the best that loves that most that is seen least and that is not so much for acts without as Grace within 4. If it be a true Love it is a lasting Love and holds out in times of danger as well as in times of prosperous duty 5. True Love is seen most and known best when as the party beloved is in a low suffering condition for the Life of true Love lies much in sympathizing with that it loves So then that Love that only loves while and when the object beloved can communicate or answer its Love with a reciprocal good or profit but when the object lies under sufferings or censures or wants it draws back and dyes it 's a false Love for true Love doth principally manifest it self in Unity Community and Sympathy and in the last is seen most 6. Where true Love is there is a Spirit that attends it that is the Life of it and where this Love doth God-like and Christ-like go forth to love the Spirit of that Love goes forth into the object beloved indearing and uniting the heart and life of each other As Jonathan and David 7. True God-like and Christ-like Love is not only a sympathizing and uniting Love but it 's a bearing covering Love it 's nimble eyed to see Beauty but very dim to see Deformity But because there is so much deceit in Love let me advise you to take heed of false Love or imitating Love that will deceive 1. That Love will deceive that loves Parts more than Principles yet think it is for Principles they love 2. When as their Love to the party beloved is very high and violent while the party is in credit but if under reproach or clouds or censures their seeming Love is with great ease readiness turned into censuring and for the most part without either examination or reluctancy but in true Love where Life goes out it is not so easily called in but will turn and search and search before it will shift 3. A third deceit rides only upon or most upon the wing of Oneness in Judgment as to the visible wayes of God Christ or in other wayes but others that have more Grace are not so much beloved unless they be of the same length breadth heighth in point of Judgment this sort of Love is the most universally deceivable in this day and yet the most sad threed-bare Love that ever the Devil spun 4. It is when Souls love only so long as they are beloved 5. Another Deceit in Love is When men in their Love under the notion of Religion or Grace are more to women than to men and in women to men more than to women all Love ought to be lookt after but this to have a double watch Now because the best way to try the Truth of Love is by the Properties that the Scriptures witness to be in true Love I shall say no more as to the Truth or Deceit that is in Love by the rule of my own experience but beseech my Relations and Friends to mind well what the Apostle saith of true Love in 1 Cor. 13.4 to the 8th verse where the very natural and essential Properties of Love is asserted and so asserted that they that can witness what 's there said may assuredly know their Love is true and if the contrary be found in you or any you may with the same assurance know your Love though it appear never so high yet it is but false deceitful imitating Love It is good to consider well what Love is true Spiritual Love springs out of God and what it truly is it returns to God carrying the heart where it is truly placed along with it to God and there it 's fixed and centered And though it may shake hands in its passage with an inferiour good yet 't is not at home but as it is and when it is with God for in that Union is its being and in communion with that good is its well being If you take Love in its Parts you will see more of is Excellency Observe a good mans description of Love Desire is Love in motion persuit after good the
heat and lifting up must be from presence and yet sometimes this heat joy and liftings up may only arise from the unity of Light and Life for do but mind how Peace doth arise from a bare union of Light and Life if the Liâ—â—â— be but one with the Light and doth not crâ—â—â— it that soul must needs have peace thouâ—â— the Light may be but a deceivable Light 〈◊〉 if the Life cross it not Peace is maintained and many times such souls in such condiâ—â—ons do conclude that their joy and peace from Presence Therefore it doth concus to know the Truth or Deceit of such Jâ—â—â— Peace Confidence and liftings up you 〈◊〉 see the Truth and also the Deceits in what follows As 1. When the increase of Confidence and Comfort doth not crucifie or mortifie sin but leaves the soul or gives the soul as little power against sin as when it first found it unless it be restraint of sin not mortification 2. When the joy and comfort they in joy â—â—â—y it doth not increase more care in their â—atch but the heart growes higher and looâ—er to that work both which you will see by â—â—e difference Christ makes between the â—eart the Devil is cast out of and that the â—evil went out of Mat. 12.43 44 45. 3. When their peace and comfort by it â—â—n and doth allow of private sins and both â—â—â—n subsist and stand together and if at any â—â—e there be any trouble for such sins a litâ—â—â— sorrow with some performance of duties 〈◊〉 lick it whole will end it without fresh â—â—plication of Jesus Christ when as anoâ—â—er heart cannot after so sinning have any â—ace but from a true manifestation of God's â—â—ve in him Psal 51.8 9. Job 34.29 4. When the sence of propriety in God â—â—kes them high and confident in mercies in â—â—es of prosperity but in crosses or time of â—ress their confidence comfort strength â—â—es Prov. 24.10 5. When the soul only takes comfort from or rejoyces in that part of Gods Word which speaks out comfort but not in that which crosses corruption and requires duty Now a true Joy Comfort and Confidence arising from a true sence and sight of propriety in God makes the soul to love and delight in each and all God's Words as well one as the other See Psal 119.57 70 72 77 97. Apply 114. with 127 128 167. 6. If it be true such a soul is made ablâ— by it to distinguish between the comfortâ— that flow from Presence and that which flowâ— from other things though it have an angelical stamp upon it Do but see and apply Exod. 33.23 with 13 14 15. and chap. 34.9 And so David 7. All false Joy and Comfort begins at wrong end as thus all that Joy and Comfort ariseth from sence and 't is sence onlâ— that gives light But true Joy and Comforâ— ariseth from sight and that sight begeâ—sence So Moses Exod. 33.15 16. So Dâ—vid Psal 116.10 and 43.5 That Chriâ—â— intends John 10.4 5. A stranger they will 〈◊〉 hear 8. False Comforts and Joy will triumâ— over unseen sufferings but when seen aâ—â— felt it fails and falls But true Joy Coâ—fort and Confidence from fight of Presencâ— is most weighty and serious and chearfuâ— when suffering for God is seen and felt Sâ—â— David and the three Children and Daniel â—nd Paul and those in Acts 5. ult Rom. 5.1 〈◊〉 c. Now because some have with their false â—iftings up great gifts and parts and so not â—o easiely discovered I will add a few more to â—o these 9. Though they may be imployed in hearâ—ng or declaring such and such Truths yet do not in themselves savour what is said or what they say or declare See John 6.60 10. What ever such have that looks like â—ife yet it lasteth not long but is in a decliâ—ing posture like Ephraim Hos 7.8 9. and Mat. 13.20 21. 11. It 's more troubled at negatives than â—or want of affirmatives that is to say it 's â—roubled sometimes at things that are contraâ—y to life but seldom or never troubled for â—he want of life like the Pharises Luke 4. â— 39 40. So much to this particular In the next place I would lay down some â—rue signes or discoveries whether or no we â—ave the true promised Spirit the Scripture â—peaks of and they are as followeth 1. That heart that is truly inriched with â—he Spirit of God is very chearfully carried â—ut to comply and close with God in all its â—â—ence and sufferings as Job Job 1.31 â—hap 40.5 43.5 So David 2. That heart by it is made capable to distinguish and know God or Christ's Call from all false calls or discoveries though in a night-season See Cant. 5.3 4. 3. To such a heart Presence is alwayes pretious but most pretious when it gives most power against sin Psal 40.1 2 c. 4. It enjoys nothing in its own account livingly and lovingly but when it enjoys Presence clearly Psal 73.25 26. 5. It fears no dammage nor danger when sin is from it and Presence is with it Psal 23.4 27.1 and 112.7 6. It makes the heart to make sweet applications of God's Love in and from the bitterest lashes and out of darkness applications of Light See Micah 7.8 see David 1 Sam. 30.6 2 Sam. 15.24 25. 7. It 's that which leads the Soul not only to but into the Spirit and Life of all Truth John 16.23 imitating-light life and grace only leads to but not into any truth 8. It never gives the soul a fresh view of Christ but it gives the soul a renewed participation of what is communicable by Christ John 16.13 14. 2 Cor. 3. ult 9. It never brings the soul sensible comforts but it livingly sets the soul at liberty not only to live and to love God but it transforms the heart into the Glory of what it injoys or beholds 2 Cor. 3.17 18. 10. That heart that is truly inriched with it it cannot live without it and if without it it is as a body without a soul and mind this that when that lies hid all comforts on this side God cannot make it live till it returns Job 34.29 There is many more but I do but hint at them and that by which God hath in measure satisfied my sould with If any shall object and say that they have felt these or most of these but they are so often eclipsed that they fear it cannot be right and they are often fearful that they had only a sight and taste of it and that God hath finally forsaken the soul I shall only let you know what hath been a comfort to my soul and is a testimony that it 's only Gods hiding his face and not a final forsaking Mind these things 1. If the soul be finally forsaken that soul is willing to be forsaken and not troubled at it but rather rejoyces in it 2. If finally forsaken there is an evil spirit presently possesses it as in Saul 3.
week that is seventy times seven years which is four hundred and ninety years and just so long and no longer it was from the Command to build the Temple to Christ's Death and he dyed in the middle of the last week that is in the middle of the last year This no Jews can truly answer and it being so unanswerable as to them and so full of clear satisfaction as to any doubting Christian I shall say no more in answer to this Question but beg of God it may satisfie you as it hath done me Quest 3. Now in answer to the third and last Question consider these Particulars as to the Gospel 1st Consider whose it 's called God's Mark 1.14 2 Cor. 11.7 1 Thess 2.2 8 9. 1 Tim. 1.11 2ly Christs Mark 1.1 Rom. 15.19 29. 1 Cor. 9.12 18. 2 Cor. 4.4 2 Thess 1.8 3dly The Apostles Rom. 2.16 chap. 16.25 2 Tim. 2.8 2 Cor. 4.3 Secondly What is relatively called Gospel 1. God's Power Rom. 2.16 that is to say his Grace or that wherein his Power is made manifest or implied 2. The Word of God is called Gospel Act. 8. â—5 Heb. 4.2 3. The Doctrine of Grace or Justification is so called apply Gal. 1.6 8 9. with chap. 2.14 and 3.1 2 8. 4. Preaching Doctrine whether true or false 〈◊〉 it relates to or pretends Justification is called Gospel Gal. 1.6 8 9. apply chap. 2.14 chap. 3.1 2 8. 5. Preaching and other Ministrations or imployments for Christ or his Church is relatively called so see Phil. 2.22 chap. 4.3 1 Thess 3 2. Quest What is really the Gospel Answ It is the Deliverance or Salvation of poor souls through the Free-Grace of God by the â—eath and Resurrection of his Son Jesus The â—â—â—ath of which will appear by Act. 15.7 apply chap. 10.30 to v. 44. and chap. 11.1 chap. 〈◊〉 24. Ephes 1.13 chap. 3.6 apply Ephes 6.19 20. with 1 Cor. 5.20 2 Tim. 1.10 see 1 Pet. 1.11 12 18 19 20. by applying Tit. 2.20.11 12. with Col. 1.5 6. see Col. 1.23 24 to ver 28. you will see this Truth by applying God's Promises Isa 61.1 12. with Luke 4.18 19. So much in answer to the Queston What the Gospel is Search the Scriptures and you will see it plain So I shall say no more to that but beg of God we may believe and walk worthy of it Amen Amen Now seeing God was pleased after a small time that I had been close Prisoner to refresh me so much that after many dayes of Prayers and Tears I was made to sing although for so doing I was condemned by some though what I did sing was that which was given in sutable to my Condition and God's dear and gratious Dealing with me and because some did so censure me for it I thought good to insert one oâ— those Hymns I did make since I came here which is as followeth An Hymn I made upon my being taken and carried to Prison with the Matter and Manner August 20. 1663. AS I in Bed asleep did lie A Messenger steps in And saith Arise even by and by Here 's Warrant from the King Your House to search and you to take Nehem. 6.8 12. You must no longer lie I soon did see what plot they make To take my Liberty When I before the Great One came Mat. 10.18 He askt why I did smile Luke 21.12 Good Sir I said do not me blame You 'l find in me no guile Away said he to th' Tower him take And him there close let lye Job 35.12 No words nor excuse must I make Prov. 21.13 But leave my Liberty When I came here I was amaz'd Psal 46.1 and 86.5 But God did me soon meet And bid me not to be afraid Isa 41.10 and 66.5 Rejoyce but do not weep â—y foes though fair I will declare Thy patience I will try Rev. 2.10 〈◊〉 joyce in me doe not despair James 1.2 In me 's thy Liberty No sooner did this Grace appear Psal 42.4 5 6 7. But I cry'd out amain O Lord Let me not now come here And go away in vain Psal 79.9 But let thy hand now shew thy heart Isa 27.9 And let me live on High Psal 86.16 And from my soul let sin depart Isa 33.16 For that 's true Liberty Then did I sing Act. 16.25 and sate me down Letting them shoot their darts At him Psa 126.10 who ever wears the Crown And reigns in all Saints hearts 'T is he that is now Zions King Psal 2.6 And doth the world defie 'T is he which light life doth bring Joh. 14.16 In him 's my Liberty The Lamb of God Rev. 5.12 and 1.5 our King will come In Righteousness to Reign His glorious Kingdome is begun Isa 32.1 and 52.7 He 'll all his foes disdain And he himself will soon declare Rev. 19.6 That Psal 91.13 he alone is He Whom Kings Nations must now fear Jer. 10.7 In him 's their Liberty His Wedding Day with men he 'll keep Rev. 19.7 21.9 3.4 5. 4.4 7.14 And Promises fulfil With garments white he 'll cloath his This is his Father's will That they should all now live with Sheep Joh. 17.21 22 23 24. In union for to be And see themselves redeem'd from sin him Phil. 3.20 To perfect Liberty And I in Christ shall now be blest Phil. 3.8 and 1.23 He unto me did say Now enter thou into thy Rest Rom. 8.1 That none can take away Psal 37.7 Untill my Wrath on men be past Isa 26.20 I 'le shut thee up in me Though into Prison men thee cast I 'le be thy Liberty A Work for thee I have to do Act. 26.16 In which I 'le thee maintain Isa 41.10 My Truth thou must bear witness to Act. 23.11 Whil'st life in thee remain Unto my Truth now set thy seal Rev. 20.4 My Name to Magnifie John 3.33 I will then sure to thee reveal Jer. 33.3 What 's Truth and Liberty Prisons of old were Prophets Schools Psal 94.12 and 119.71 And there were taught by Me To learn my Statutes and my Rules And eke my Majesty And there did I them strength afford Psa 138.3 For all Extremity 2 Cor. 1.4 5 And I who was their only Lord Psal 37.39 27.1 Did give them Liberty When I beheld this Glory bright Psa 118.14.15 Shining in me so clear I then did sing and also write Isa 12.1 2. That others might him fear Psal 34.11 And also may awake and sing Isa 26.19 Tho in the dust they lye In Christ their Dew on them falling By whom's their Liberty In all the world he 'll this declare â—sal 89.10 To all both great and small His Holy Arme he will make bare â—sa 63.12 Before the Nations all And they that will his
for Truth that is but an imitation and likeness and not the Truth it self That souls may have a little help in this work could not but lend my small mite of Experience and write down in this day of my Restraint what Experience I have had of the Deceits that attend God's dear Appointments through mens mistakes and also the Deceits that attend Prayer and Sorrow for Sin or at least so pretended and the Deceit in Love and that grand Deceit that attends Souls in Duty calling the heat and warmness and elivations they gain from thence Experiences and Refreshments from Presence These and many more hath my soul met with in my day which for the help of others I have as I said before asserted in this day of my Restraint Though my beloved Friends if any such reade this I must tell you that I am sensible although this time of my Imprisonment be a season fit for this service upon my account yet by reason of that Cloud that 's cast upon me out of pretended ends to bring honour to God And how much dirt is not onely by them cast in my face but in the face of all that shew tenderness and love to me so that it 's a bad season for sure I cannot expect but that even what I have here writ shall meet with many repulses and little acceptance therefore I wish it might have come from some other hands than mine being willing to suffer any thing so the Truth may be at liberty and not suffer for my sake But yet sure some sons of Truth will imbrace the Truth for the Truths sake to them I principally recommend this And I have set down some of those dear refreshing Upholds I have enjoyed from God since I came into this Prison that others may through the knowledge of Prison-mercies learn not to fear a Prison O my Friends a Prison is not to be feared if we suffer not as evil-doers and do but enjoy God there for Gods Presence makes a Prison a Palace None knows the worth power and riches of Presence till it be enjoyed and when enjoyed the less of creature-comforts attend it and the more of sufferings and crosses accompany it the more glorious and sweet it is Now my dear Friends I beg of you in reading what by me is here writ To let your eyes be off from the dirt which is though unjustly cast upon me when you reade any of Gods Love and Beauty and let not the Clouds that lie on me hinder you from searching and imbracing what is here asserted in faithfulness and love for your service That you may by others mistakes learn to stand fast and to keep close to God to Christ and to his Truth following of the Lamb in this latter day with that Love Faith and Patience that the Day and Work of the Day calls for That you may be so I commend you and my own soul to God and the Word of his Grace and remain Yours in that Love of which Christ is the Life P. H. A TABLE of the Particulars that in this Book I have spoken to 1. THe first is to shew the Condition I was in when I first came into Prison and how God did meet me and support me and from what Scriptures God did hand out Comfort to me when I came in first and the particular Censures that were cast upon me Page 1. to 12 2. The second general head is the gain and advantages Saints reap by Sufferings which was by the Lord shewed me from Matth. 16.25 laid down in nine particulars Page 9 to 12 3. Grounds why Saints have no cause to fear Suffering for Christ and his Cause pag. 14-16 4. When men are said to suffer and yet not truly suffering as Saints And when and who are true Sufferers with the Grounds for Saints to suffer rather than to save themselves by accusing others p. 17-20 5. The movings of my going beyond Sea and the cause of my Return inserting the sad Scandals that were cast upon me with my Answers to them p. 21 22 6. Is eight Queries relating to the primitive Appointments of our Lord whether they are now as then to be enjoyed p. 23-27 7. Is five Queries as to the spirits and principles of men in this day whether they are fit to meet God in his dear Appointments yea or no and the sad evil improvements some made of these Queries and my Grounds why I did propound them p. 27-29 8. The Character of a Covetous-minded Rich-man in five particulars with the Description of a covetous mind in poor men in four particulars p. 31-33 9. Several useful Observations for all that fear God and in particular to my Children both as to the nature of Prayer and resisting Sin and the deceit of false-love and the properties of true Love and who they are that are to be loved and what Love is p. 34-46 10. Directions for my Children how to love and who to trust and with what Prudence they should behave themselves in the world p. 49 50 11. What deceit there is in Mourners or in Mourning though it may seem to be for Sin with the true properties of a true Mourner p. 50 51 12. A Discovery of false Joy and Peace and listings up from heat of Duties and Eloquence c. and not from Presence p. 52-55 13. The true signs of a souls enjoying the promised Spirit and they are ten in number p. 55 56 14. How a soul may know when God withdraws whether it be only the Dissertion that is proper to Saints or finally forsaking p. 57 58 15. A Discovery of the sad Deceits that attend Conversion what they are and who they are that are deceived and that in seven Soul-destroying Deceits are laid down p. 58-60 16. Some Deceits that attend men and women in their external Walking or Worship p. 60 61 17. Is an Answer to a Christian Friends Letter as to four things 1. The heads of what I did deliver from John 3.16 About God's Love in giving Christ 2. Was to prove the Soul immortal 3. Whether the Peace that was purchased by Christ be a particular Grace or a state 4. Is the difference between the two Covenants viz. the Covenant of Works and the Covenant of Grace p. 62-104 18. Is fifty one Texts of Scripture that I formerly spoke from with the Doctrine that was observed and my Grounds why I did insert such a Breviate of them in this Book p. 105-116 19. Is to shew a way to prove there is a God without making use of the blessed Scriptures in Answer to some Atheists p. 117 125 20. Is an Answer to another Letter in Answer to three Questions 1. How to answer the Roman Catholicks in point of Transubstantiation 2. How to prove to the Jews and that unanswerably that Christ is come And 3. how many wayes the word Gospel is taken and what is in truth the Gospel p. 126-132 21. I have inserted one of the Hymns I made
whatsoever is lost or laid down for Christ cannot be a loss because it 's only lent and God and Christ have given sufficient ingagement to repay with an hundred fold improvement See Mat. 19.29 But this Text assures us of not only freedom from loss but a finding or gain If any should say Wherein is a Saints gain in thus suffering Answer First mind this no sooner is the soul upon the wheel of suffering for Christ but God and Christ is upon their motion to rise and serve them And that First By inquiring into their state and condition as he did in the old time Secondly By giving forth a suitable proportion of Grace to carry them through it Thirdly By debating with the tryal and waiting it out that it may be in measure Isa 27.8 Jer. 30.11 Fourthly When it s gone forth and seized upon a Saint God stands by it and if it appears too heavy he makes it lighter by giving the heart a lift into the higher Life and strength or by taking some of that away See Psal 138.3 7. Fifthly While that is on that he in his Wisdom seeth best to be on Christ stands in so great a sympathy with them that he is afflicted in their affliction Isa 63.9 and it is such a sympathy that causes Christ not to stand silent but to sympathize with the soul so as to send it and carry it answerable comforts Sixthly The Grace that God gives souls in such a suffering day is not only so much as may and doth answer their troubles but it doth over-ballance and transcend all their sorrows See 2 Cor. 1.4 5. Seventhly God doth not only keep Saints in suffering and bring them out without loss but he makes even their affliction to increase profit and gain to the Soul Rom. 5.2 3 4. Eighthly God is so indulgently tender of Saints and their good and gain in a suffering day that rather than they shall want what is in his hand or heart he will with his own Presence be with them and abide with them Isa 43.1 2. if they go he goes if they be put into the water and fire so will he too See the three Children Dan. 3.24 25. and if shut up in prison where they are kept dark there God will shew them more than before Jer. 33.3 8. whatsoever they want or are in point of comfort deprived of God presently makes it up Micah 7.7 8. Ninthly And to make up all after his often coming down to them and inriching them by his giving forth Light Love Life and all that they may be fully gainers he will take them up to himself and so to live in eternal Glory with them for ever where sin and sinners suffering and sickness shall trouble them no more but all sorrow and sighing shall pass away and all tears shall be wiped from their eyes Isa 25.8 Rev. 7.17 chap. 21.4 O come Lord Jesus come quickly Amen Amen O now my Soul what loss is there by loseing for Christ his Cause and Interest Ah happy is the soul that is imployed in this work O who would not leave it self and its all to Him and his disposal and never chose or refuse its own Cup that the Father mixes and gives to us O my soul trust God he is Faithful and will make good every tittle of his Promises See 1 Kings 8.56 Isa 34.16 Now the next Scripture God brought comfort to my Soul by was Rev. 2.10 Fear none of these things which you shall suffer behold the Devil shall cast some of you into prison that you may be tryed and ye shall have tribulation ten dayes but be faithful c. These ten dayes is an uncertain time and that the word Ten is taken for an uncertain time is clear if you mind Gen. 31.7 41. Numb 14.22 Job 19.2 Object The Ten Horns in Dan. 7.7 sure is a certain number Answ Yes 't is so but mind the word Ten is not barely expressed and so left but it is expounded verse 24. These Ten Horns are ten Kings so that it is not there left as in the other places but when 't is expressed and not fixed to a certain number it is to be minded as an uncertain time so that by ten dayes must be meant an uncertain time Some say ' its to be meant a day for a year and the longest time of persecution that ever was since Christ's time was but Ten years but I judge it best to mind this as in other places many dayes But from it I am made to see that to persecute Saints is the Devils work God makes use of the Devil to do his drudgery Sufferings is God's way to scoure and rub the rust off from his Servants it 's work fit for Satan but the profit of it is fit for none but Saints O I have cause herein to bless God for I have cause to say there was much rust got in my lazie time upon my heart and over my Experiences and Graces and acquaintance with God and his wayes O if this be God's rubbing and clearing day I must say as Peter Not only my hands but all over O my God did my Estate gather or cause rust thou tooks away that and thou didst see my Name dead Didst thou see my Name being too large for my Nature caused rust thou hast suffered that to be blasted and thou seest that both my Liberty and Life gather rust wilt thou also take that Do Lord do Lord what thou wilt so thou wilt bring me out as Gold like Job Job 23.10 and that is the next words in the Text and see what follows in this Rev. 2.10 Be faithful to the death and I will give thee a Crown of Life Saints faithfulness is to be such as not only to hold out in some dangers but to death O there is a sufficient reward a Crown and that a Crown of Life all earthly Crowns are dead or dying Crowns this a living Crown or a Crown of Life O who would but strive wait and work for such a Crown well might Christ exhort Saints not to fear any thing that shall befal them of this nature Now the chiefest word that God made of weight to my Soul from these words was these first words Fear none of these things O there is not only one sort of Sufferings but all sorts must attend Saints but none is to be feared Now upon my minding this these considerations did follow me First There is no cause of fear where the object of fear is removed Now the matter of Fear or Fearfulness is Evil. The Evil of all afflictions on Saints is removed by God through Christ Isa 27.8 That made David say Psal 23.4 Though in the valley of the shadow of death not to fear Evil. Secondly There is no cause of Fear of that or them which come either to serve us or save us Now al Suffering on Saints as Saints comes to serve them and so to save them sometimes from sin Isa 27.9
leave off loving nay it will rather endure hard dealings and conquer them with Love than leave off loving Did not Christ do so with the Spouse Cant. 5. And what hard usage did God receive from his People as you may see in Jer. 2d and 3d. chapters yet God follows them with Love O what hard usage did Paul receive for and in the way of his Love from them he loved and yet he loved still a sweet lesson for Saints in this day to learn O that God would give me and all his People power seriously to try our Love by these Rules Love is laid down in Scripture as one of the chiefest signs of our Son-ship O therefore we had need be careful we are not mistaken especially in this day wherein there is so much imitation of Love and yet not Love the Lord help us to try that we may be found in the Truth and the Love of the Truth and true Love may be found in us O if ever the lesson that Christ preached to his Disciples in the 14.15.16 chapters of John and that John preached in 1 Joh. 2 3 4 5 chapters as to this great Duty of Love there was never a season that called for that service like this and never was the dear Appointments and Service of God less honoured with this Saint-honouring Grace of Love than now in this day the Devil knows it is the sinewes and nerves that keeps Saints one and he also knows the way to destroy the People of God is to devide the People of God They are very blind that in looking back cannot see â—hat so long as the People of God kept in â—nity they were kept in prosperity and when â—hey devided they soon fell O that God â—ould give his People hearts to know from â—hence they are fallen and to do their first works and to remember their former Virgin-Love which formerly appeared to bear blossoms till the sad frost of a revolting spirit caused it to be nipt with cold blasts of God's Northern winds O would any souls recover Love labour to be acquainted more with the God of Love and live more under the sence of the want of Love and covet to be first in that work and where you see a want of Love love them into Love And the God of all Love Peace and Grace live with you Amen Amen I have done with speaking of true God like Love I might speak something of natural Love and also the Love of Friends of Relations or Neighbours upon a natural account but of that I shall forbear only Brief Word or two to my Children which mind as followeth VVHen and wheresoever you find shews of Love take a longer time 〈◊〉 try it than to trust it Meet with no friendâ—â— Love but answer it with Love and where 〈◊〉 intend to continue in Friendship and â—ove stay not from loving till you are beloâ—ed but love that you may be loved know that â—ove that your Love begets will not only â—â—st longest but will end most honourably 2. Take heed of a pleasant smooth lanâ—age where there is an evil life 3. Trust none that speaks fair to you if â—â—u find them prone to speak evil of others 4. Look well behind men and before men â—ore you intrust any secret in men or woâ—en 5. If you would gain and receive a friendâ—â— esteem of all walk humbly towards every â—in for the best way to be honoured as a â—â—â—ster is to be to all like a Servant to the â—â—ants but not to the carnal wills of men 6. If you would retain friendship among 〈◊〉 what ever you hear speak evil of none 7. To retain Friendship long take heed 〈◊〉 leave not your interest loose among any In word my dear Children if you wisely and friendly profitably live in the world as to the world mind this rule So live among men that you may overseâ— all men learn something from every man but confide in no man and yet so as to suffer no man to lose but rather to gain by you In the next place I shall speak a wordt the nature of Sorrow or Mourning seeing there are so many promises annexed to truâ—â— Mourners And in this mind two things 1. What Deceits attend Mourning thaâ— we may not be deceived 2. The Properties of true Mourning 1. Deceit is when we take the sudden motion of a natural tender affection for the exercises of true conviction or a heart trusâ— affected from Grace for some nature is such that upon the least sudden motion of any sorrow or sometimes from sudden joy they cannot but mourn and if this come at a season of praying or preaching without care it may be and I fear is taken as a fruit of Grace 2. When a soul mourns more for peace than for the want of presence So did Saâ—â— and Judas c. 3. There is a hidden occult quality 〈◊〉 some natures that they cannot but in a wâ—â—â— of sympathy weep and mourn when they seâ—â—â— another mourn it may be those that they see mourn may mourn from true conviction and then in a way of sympathy they cannot but mourn too and so being among true Mourners they and others may conclude it true 4. Deceit is when any ones mourning is produced from a sad reflection of guilt 〈◊〉 crossing Light more than for their dealing â—nkindly with God and his Love Quest What are the truest Signs of a true â—ourner Answ These 1. True Mourning in real â—ourners brings or draws up the soul into a â—ore single closing in with God or it raiseth 〈◊〉 the heart to a more special expectation â—â—â—d choice compliance with God see and â—ind well Isa 38. last part of the 16 verse 2. Such prize deliverance from sin much â—â—re then freedom from sorrow Isa 38.17 â—â—al 40.1 2. 3. They are a people that are as seriously â—â—ected with their unsuitable frames of heart their mourning as for the matter they â—â—urn for 4. Answers from God in their mourning â—â—ess their answer brings Power as well as â—â—don it will not satisfie Psal 51. 〈◊〉 A true Mourner mourns most kindly 〈◊〉 freely when he injoys God in sealing up â—â—â—on must fully Luke 7.38 and 47.48 〈◊〉 Such a heart mourns for that most that is seen least I mean more for heart-sins unseen than for sins without that are seen See Job 42.3 6. see David Psal 19.12 and 51.5 6 7. and Isa 6.5 7. The property of such a soul is The nearer it draws to God the more the work of mourning and shame doth increase See Jer. 3. and last verse and see Job 42.2 3 6. Besides these Deceits there are yet some Deceits that are harder to be discerned and that is in point of joy and boldness and appearance of life in duties For know There are many that from eloquence duty and some concurrents of natures abiâ—â—â—ty joyning with imitating sorrow or joy do so heat and warm and lift up the soul that it concludes that joy
of Spirits and live and Mat. 22.31 32. But as touching the Resurrection of the dead have ye not read that which was spoken unto you by God saying I Am the God of Abraham and the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob God is not the God of the dead but of the living Now mind the words There you see a great difference between the Father of Spirits and the father of bodies or flesh Now if the Spirit or Soul in this sense were as the body then the fathers of the body or flesh were also Fathers of the Soul or Spirit besides you may see two distinct properties father of the fleshly part and Father of the Spirit or Soul the same is seen in this also Mat. 22.31 32. Now take a few Natural Reasons Reason 1. Without this there can be no Resurrection for though God works by his mighty Power in that yet the Mean is thus The Spirit of the body is that which revives and quickens the body as in all seeds so in this 't is the very Reason the Apostle useth in 1 Cor. 15.38 Now that seed that is cast into the ground if the seed so dyes as that its life and spirit dies it never comes up nor nothing of it but though the body dyes and rots yet if the vertue and life abides it springs up again and receives its own body so here though the power by which 't is done is the Power of God Reas 2. That which at no time in its being desires or stands in need of rest or cessation from motion doth not in its being admit of alteration or cessation as to being but the Soul or Spirit that we minde at no time stands in need of rest or cessation from motion Ergo c. Object The mind cannot alwayes be attentive on one thing but requires alteration Answ Though it doth yet it is not from motion but from one object to another as sometimes from Religion to exercise it self in Physick and from that sometime to Musick and so from one to another to be imployed in something but it never desires or stands in need of a cessation from motion so that though the body sleeps yet even then there is some moving and motion that is kept on foot which tells us there is an unwearied part in man that is of a nature different from the dying part of man Reas 3. Whatsoever is in man not comprehended by man is above and so far beyond man that it is not of that nature that is dying Now this Spirit or Soul of a man that lives in the Mind and is truly the mind of a man is not nor cannot be comprehended by man but the mind of a man reacheth to Heaven when he is upon the Earth and to the uttermost part of the World when the body is but in one part And the minde of man though it may apprehend yet it cannot comprehend it self Now this mind or spirit of the mind is that part that never dies Paul calls this Rom. 7.25 his Mind and Rom. 1.9 he calls that his Spirit which in chap. 7. v. 25. he calls his mind this is that which is in a man and lives when the body dyes Rea. 4. When the body sleeps it is in asence as dead yet at that time there is something in man that is capable of receiving Instruction as in Job 33.15 16. In a Dream in the Visions of the night when deep sleep falleth upon men in slumberings upon the bed then he openeth the ears of men and sealeth their Instruction Now mind did all sleep or cease from motion or a living capacity alike then when one ceases sleeps or dyes all would dye too but you see from thence that there is some part capable of Instruction Ergo. Quest If any should enquire and say Is not this Soul or Spirit something that came from God and is really part of God and so goes to God again Answ No Though it came from God yet it is no part of God If you cast your eye on those words of Christ Mat. 10. 28. you will have an answer 1. Were it God it could not be capable to be cast by God into Hell c. Answ 2. If that in man which is immortal were part of God it needed not to be sanctified but not only the body but the soul and also the spirit stands in need of being sanctified and kept blameless see 1 Thess 5.23 Let me adde one thing more and that is this I mean as to the immortality of the Soul Answ 3. There is nothing in the world that is of a dying nature doth or can satisfy the soul or spirit of a man Now every thing naturally is satisfied with its like Now were the soul of man or all in man of one nature dying contents would satisfie it but it cannot Ergo. I would have you but a little mind the sad consequences that must and doth attend the owning and holding the Soul to be mortal and dye with the body 1st If the Soul be mortal Then as its Nature is so is its Property or Quality and Ability in its movings and natural motions and so it cannot move towards Immortality but quite contrary Now though we do hold That man hath not power savingly to act God-ward and Heaven-ward but by the help of Grace yet we know there is principles in every man to act God-ward and to seek after Immortality even in very Heathens Now were there not somthing of that nature there would be no such enquiries nor movings neither would nay could God judge the Heathens Rom. 2.14 15. by a Law that is in their natures were not this so 2dly As we said before The Resurrection is denied upon the ground before expressed 3dly It naturally tends to make men Epicures see Isa 22.12 4ly It takes off the great expectation of Saints in their longing and groaning for their departure as Paul did 2 Cor. 5.6 8 for what need they groan for a departure if nothing at the departure were to be enjoyed 5ly It denies God to be the Father of Spirits a Prerogative proper to God distinct from men Heb. 12. 6ly It denies that dear and near Affinity and Communion of Spirits which is the Joy of Saints the Rejoycing of Angels Heb. 12.22 23 24. In the next place we would shew you in part what are the Priviledges souls enjoy after they are departed Mind a few of the Priviledges that Saints enjoy when departed from the body 1. They are present with God 2 Cor. 5.8 We are confident I say and willing rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. 2. We are by it freed from our House or sad rotten Tabernacle 3. We shall be freed from our Groanings 2 Cor. 5.2 4. For in this we groan earnestly desiring to be cloathed upon with our House which is from Heaven For we that are in this Tabernacle do groan being burthened not for that we would
time I spake from with the bare mentioning of the Text and the Doctrine I observed from thence without any more but only the Text and Doctrine and though I cannot mention them in order yet as many as I can remember I shall wishing God may make proof and improvement of them to them that reade them And the first I shall mention is this in Gen. 48.21 But it was not the first that ever I spake from for I cannot nor shall not set them down in order as I tould you Doct. 1. It is the portion of the best of our Relations here below to dye and be deprived each of other Doct. 2. The loss of the best Relation cannot deprive a soul of the Priviledge of God's promised Presence Doct. 3. The sence of the enjoyment of God's presence bears up and ballances the Soul under the loss or separation of outward Relations 1 Cor. 3.18 Doct. 1. Those that will be wise in a Gospel-sence must become Fools Doct. 2. Those that are yet in the worlds wisdome and not yet become Fools in a Gospel-sence their state is a state of deceit We raised all into one Doctrine Those that are not in a Gospel-sence become Fools but are yet in the worlds wisdome their state is not standing but a state of deceit Isa 30.15 Doct. It is God's way to crown and confirm his great works of Restoration by the pouring forth of his Spirit and it is good for Saints to expect and wait for it This minding the time when and the end Mark 13.37 Doct. Watching is a Duty proper for Saints alwayes to be imployed in Ezek. 22.14 Doct. 1. There is a day when God will deal with men Doct. 2. There is no hearts nor hands of wicked men can endure that Day We reduced both into one Doctrine Notwithstanding Gods Long-forbearance and mens foolish-confidence or security yet he hath a day to deal with wicked men in which day hands and hearts that is to say all supports will fail them or they will not be able to endure Cant. 2.15 Doct. There are little yet subtil evils attend the People of God and hinder their growth the sence of which should make them seek to Christ for a removal Zeph. 3.18 Doct. In the latter dayes there will be in the Solemn Assemblys great cause of sorrow and to be really and candidly imployed in it is kindly taken of God Matth. 12. latter end of ver 44. Doct. To have a fair appearance as to Form yet in the heart to be empty as to Life and Power doth not free but further the miserable state of that soul Isa 22. part of the 14. v. Doct. Not to be imployed in the present work of our Generation but neglect to answer God's Call to the present work of the day is a sad sin that God will surely punish 1 Cor. 1.27 first part of the verse Doct. It was the great design of God in his great and Gospel-Work to make choice of or chuse that which the world doth most undervalue Psal 69.32 Doct. 1. God's Goodness to particular Saints especially upon Zions account is matter of great joy and gladness Doct. 2. That Humble souls are only fit to meet God in such imployment Doct. 3. It is not only propper to but the Priviledge of Humble Souls to bless or rejoyce in God's Goodness to particular Saints or Zion in general All was reduced to one Doctrine The rejoycing at or in the Goodness of God to particular Saints especially upon Zions account is a Priviledge and Imployment proper only to Humble Souls Luke 21. first part of the 8th ver Doct. 1. It was Christ's care to forewarn Saint of Deceits Doct. 2. There is and will be variety of Deceits or Deceivers Doct. 3. The sence of the many Deceâ—ts or Deceivers should cause Saints to take heed VVe reduced all into one Doctrine Doct. Saints aswell as Sinners from the advice of Christ and the sence of Deceits ought to take heed Psal 119.1 Doct. There is a blessedness annexed to God's Wayes but properly applicable to none but they that are Pure and Undefiled in them Isa 61.3 Doct. 1. Though it be Christ's work to Proclaim and bring forth Comfort to all sensible sinners yet most eminently to Mourners in Sion Doct. 2. It is a commendable and comely Posture for Saints in Sion to be Mourners Doct. 3. It is not a Saints present enjoyment either of countenance or outward accommodation but a future change that is a Saints gain or ground of Comfort Doct. 4. What Saints appear to be and are in their outward condition in their Sorrow and Sufferings the quite contrary they will be when God appears to dispence his promised Grace and Glory Doct. 5. It is a great part of a Saints Portion to bring glory to God Col. 4.2 Doct. 1. It is the Duty of Saints not only to pray but to continue in Prayer Doct. 2. Watchfulness in Prayer is and ought to be a Saints practice Doct. 3. Thankfulness is part of a Saints compleat Performance of the duty of Prayer First Supplication 2dly Watchful Observation 3dly A thankful Application is comprehended in prayer Act. 15.30 Doct. It was and ought to be the Practice of the Members of Sion especially Ministers to enquire after the state and condition of particular Souls Jer. 6.16 Doct. They and they only prosecute or seek Truth truly that stand in the way of Truth while they seek after it Gal. 6.2 Doct. 1. Among the People of God there are some that are under burthens Doct. 2. The Burthens of particular Saints are not only to be born by themselves but ought to be born by all Doct. 3. The Law of Christ is not performed if that Duty be neglected Rev. 3. last part of the 1. v. Doct. 1. Even in the Church of Christ there are some that have a name to live and yet are dead Doct. 2. To have a name to live and not have the Power and Life but to be dead is that which exposeth the creature to the sad sence of Gods displeasure VVe reduced all into one Doctrine To have a name to live and yet have not the power of Life but are dead their outward propriety amongst Saints will not free but doth rather further their sad censure from God's displeasure Psal 23.4 The presence of God is a sufficient support to Saints in the lowest state or the greatest affliction This in general but in particular see Doct. 1. Afflictions and Death is the portion of Saints Doct. 2. Not the least but the lowest state in Affliction is a Saints portion Doct. 3. This state to Souls is but a shadow Doct. 4. In the lowest state of Affliction Saints have no cause of fear Doct. 5. God's presence with Saints in the greatest Afflicton removes fears or It is enough for souls in any state if God be with them Doct. 6. The true sence not only of God's strength in his Love but souls profit by his lashes doth in
times of trouble sweetly uphold them Psal 135.4 Doct. 1. There is a choice application of Gods chosen Ones to himself Doct. 2. The Chosen of God or God's People are God's Treasure Col. 2.6 Doct. It is the duty of all that have received Christ in all their walkings to walk in him 2 Col. 1.9 Doct. 1. It is the portion of the pretious People of God sometimes not only to be under the sight but the very Sentence of death Doct. 2. God's special end in laying his People so low is to keep them low in themselves and not to trust in themselves but singly in God Psal 94.19 Doct. God's Comforts and Consolations puts an end to mans distractions Gen. 49.11 Take it as a Proviso and Promise to the Church in Gospel-times Doct. There is high and glorious enrichments comprehended in or under simple appearance in Gospel-Appointments Rom. 8.6 Doct. 1. Death dwels in and is the portion of a Carnal mind Doct. 2. Life and Peace is a portion that doth accompany a spiritual mind Phil. 3.20 Doct. All true Subjects of Heaven have their conversation in Heaven whilest here on Earth the sence of which should cause them to walk as Saints amongst Sinners Mind the foregoing verses Psal 66.16 Doct. That heart which doth regard iniquity can make no improvements in his approaches to God by Prayer Psal 37.28 Doct. Near society with God is a safe seat for Saints Cant. 1.2 Doct. The nearest communion with Christ is dearest and most desired by that soul that is acquainted with him Psal 119.165 Doct. 1. The People of God are enriched with a great and admirable peace Doct. 2. They that are enriched with the true Peace of God are lovers of his Law Doct. 3. So far as souls are enriched with God's Peace and so become lovers of his Law so far they live above offences or stumblings Luke 14.28 Doct. It is commendable in all especially any that undertakes work for God to take in future dangers with present duties Jer. 2.14 first part Doct. For the Friends of God so to give way to sin as by it to bring themselves into the state of Servants is a state and condition that is sad in God's sight Cant 5.9 Doct. The spiritual enrichments Saints enjoy from Christ and by them declared to bare professors makes them to be at a stand Or thus The glorious Riches Saints see in Christ and their raised affections towards Christ being declared makes bare professors be at a stand 1 Thess 5.21 Doct. 1. It is the duty of the People of God to try before they trust Doct. 2. It is also God's Peoples duty in their tryals whatsoever they find to be truth to hold it fast Psal 45.3 Doct. 1. Christ is Sions King Doct. 2. There is effinity betwixt Christ and Christians Doct. 3. Those that are in union with Christ are all glorious Doct. 4. The Glory of Zion or Saints is within Hos 8.2 depending upon the first verse and relating to the third vers Doct. 1. There was and so there may be a People among the Israel of God that appear to lay claim to him and affirm they know him and yet live not with him nor are owned by him Doct. 2. It is not mens Affirmation that can hinder God's Determination in bringing his Judgements upon them that are false to him Psal 4.8 last part of ver 11. Doct. 1. There is nothing retained by God from the People of God that is good for them Doct. 2. It is not the bare Form but the Uprightness or upright frame of heart in the Form that the Goodness of God in his Promises runs out to Nahum 1.7 Mind the time when it 's spoke and to whom and what Doct. 1. The highest exercise of God's Wrath upon his Enemies doth not nor cannot hinder his Love and Goodness to his own Doct. 2. There is no danger so desperate but here is security and safety in God for his own Doct. 3. What soever God is in himself he is the â—â—me to his People in the worst of times Dan. 6.10 Doct. 1. Saints assurance of Sufferings should not hinder or keep them off from their Service Doct. 2. Circumstances in and about Saints Service in a Suffering-day in some cases may become Substances or Duties Doct. 3. Changes in mens minds and Determinations or Conclusions in Councils should not make a stop or change in Saints way God-ward Deut. 33.29 Doct. 1. God's People are a happy People Doct. 2. The Excellency of God's People is a matchless Excellency Doct. 3. God's People are a Saved People Orthus The Salvation of Gods People is in God Doct. 4. The Strength or Life or Excellency of all that belongs to Saints is so because God is the same in that to them Doct. 5. As Saints are a People of Excellency upon God's account so they are Objects of Envy to their Enemies Doct. 6. The Enemies of Gods People are Lyars and they shall in God's season find them so Doct. 7. Though it be the portion of the Saints in a suffering-day to be low yet there is a season for Saints to be exalted above their Enemies 2. Chron. last part of vers 9. Doct. For any Person or People to be inriched with the experiences of the prosperous enjoyment of Gods Presence and to leave that and follow or â—leave to any other thing is to do foolishly Jer. 30.17 Doct. 1. It 's Saints or Zions portion to be under wants or wounds Doct. 2. As it is Zions portion to be under Sufferings so sometime in the eye of Reason to be lost or cast off by it Doct. 3. When Zions Deliverance is most out of the eye and also the affections of men its nearest the accomplishment in answer to Gods Purpose and Promise Or thus Doct. 4. When Zion is by men most forsaken it 's Gods season to save 2 Chron. 20. last part of ver 15. Doct. It is an encouraging comfort to a People or Nation in any great Trouble Tumults or Wars sensibly to know God is engaged therein John 27.17 Doct. It 's an high Testimony of Love to Christ and 't is kindly taken by him to be imployed in feeding or serving Christ's Lambs Job 23.10 Doct. When Saints suffer under the Hand of God and also under the Censures of men then to be so sensible of their own integrity as to center their satisfaction of it in the Knowledge of God is a Comfort that will hold out in the worst of times Mark 5.39 40. Doct. 1. It is that which sometimes accompanies the work or undertakings of Christ before they are accomalished to appear dead in the sight or sence of men Doct. 2. There is no cause to distrust or doubt of â—he Accomplishment of Christs undertakings though 〈◊〉 seem dead in the sight of men Doct. 3. When Christ's Vndertakings appear â—ead in mens sight they are but asleep in Christ's sence Dearly beloved Friends whoever you are that shall reade these Texts of Scripture lest