THings must be removed, and taken off, from the place where they are, before they can be laid, and setled else where: That I may win others to the same opinion I am of, in the subject or matter I here plead for; I shall first be­gin to answer such Objections, which I conceive are most consi­derable against it.

Object. 1: When Acts 1.6.7. they were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdome of Israel; And he said unto them, it is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. If not for the Apostles to know, then not for others, who in gifts, place, and parts, are farre short and inferiour to them.

Answer 1. Because it was neither convenient nor necessary for the Disciples, (no, nor for any in that age) to know the Times; yet it doth not follow, that it was inexpedient or un­necessary for others in ages after; Christ doth not say, It is not for any, or, it is not for others, but it is not for you to know; he means no way usefull, or fit for them, as tending either to Gods glo­ry, or the Churches good.

2. In saying, which the father hath put in his own power; he plainly intimates, that it should be revealed and made known [Page 2]in due time; and unto such as he thought good. It was Go­liah's lot, to have his head cut off with his own sword: this very scripture, if rightly weighed, is a most effectuall proof, to confute the very thing they bring it for.

3 As Christ told them, It was not for them to know the times: so he might have given them a reason for it; for the knowledge of the Time, concerning the restauration of the Kingdome to Israel, was then shut up, and sealed, according to Dan. 12.4. Daniel, and not to be revealed, till towards or near the accomplishment.

Object. 2. But Mat. 24.37, 38, 39. as the dayes of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be, for as in the dayes that were before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, untill the day that Noah entred into the ark, and knew not, untill the flood came and took them all away, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.

Answer, I shall answer this scripture two wayes.

1 For the wicked and ungodly sinners, the knowledge of the time was hid from them: and indeed, this is the thing which Christ in that place chiefly intends, in comparing the time of Noah with the latter times: for howsoever the prophane wretches then, neither knew, nor foresaw the coming of the flood; yet Noah Gen. 6, 7. and 7.4. did: he (I say) both foresaw and foretold the time of the old worlds destruction. It was indeed conceal­ed from the wicked, because it was to come upon them as a snare in the night, but revealed unto Noah for Heb. 11.7. his own, and the Churches preservation. Even thus (saith Luk. 17 30. Christ) shall it be in the day when the Son of man shall be revealed: that is, some shall know nothing of the times, but go on in their ignorance, and unbelief, as become 2 Pet. 3.34. scoffers, and walking after their own lusts, and saying, where is the promise of his coming? and so perish in the com­ing destruction; others on the other hand, by faith (like No­ah) shall prepare an Ark, to the saving of their own souls.

2 As concerning the Saints, Christ doth not simply and ab­solutely deny unto them the knowledge of the time, for he knew that the time was to be revealed unto them, Dan. 12.4, 9, 10 near the end; but he denyeth it, onely to the Saints present, and far distant from the end, to whom it was not to be Dan. 12.4.10. made known, as being unseasonable and not expedient, and would [Page 3]have occasioned rather hurt then good, Christ saith, in a cer­tain John 7, 6, 10. place, My time is not yet come; neverthelesse within a lit­tle while after he goes up to the feast: so concerning the godly (whether we respect the dayes of Daniel or Christ) the time then was not come that the prophesies of the End should be opened to them; yet they shall be opened and made known to Saints near the finishing, and before their accomplishment.

Object. 3. Mark 13.32. But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no not the angells which are in heaven, neither the Son but the Father.

I know there are severall answers given; som, not as meere man: Others, though not the day and hour, yet the year might be known, both to Christ, angels and men. But to let these things passe, my answer is, Christ as the Son of man, knew it not, till he was ascended and glorified; hence it is, that he is acknowledged Rev. 4, 5, 9 worthy to take the book, and to open the Seals there­of; mark the reason, For thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood: so then as Rev. 1.1 God gave unto Jesus Christ the Reve­lation, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to passe: so this is as a fruit of his sufferings, rising again, and fitting at the right hand of his father.

And this is a point of marvellous consequence (though little minded) for it is matter of encouragement to ask wisdome of God, that we may understand Daniel, and the book of the Reve­lation, what is meant by Dan. 7.25. Time, times, and dividing of time, what by the Rev. 11.2. 42 Moneths, the 1260 dayes, what by the Rev. 13.18. number of the Beast, which is 666. and Dan. 6.12, 6. how long it shall be to the end of these won­ders. Because Christ by his death became worthy to open the Seals, that is, (with other things) purchased by his blood for us this great priviledge, to know the time and seasons, and to make them known unto his Church and people. If it be a thing which a man owns, and hath a lawfull interest and right in it, he can ask it with the more boldnesse and confidence, and doubts not but to have it. So here, &c.

Object. 4. Many learned and godly men, diving and searching into these mysteries and hidden things, have been greatly mistaken, and by their extravagances have lost themselves, which makes others warie and cautious how to meddle with them.

Answ. 1. By the same reason, other Scriptures are not to be searcht, for learned men have most corruptly and falsely interpreted them.

2 Though it be asserted by us, that it is possible, needfull, yea, required to search out the accommodation of the years, yet we do not say, every man (howbeit learned and godly) shall understand: for the Lord may do what he will with his own.

3 That many formerly have been mistaken, it is not strange, because the time was uncertain in which they lived: the Reve­lation being reserved (as I said before) for the Saints of the last age. Besides, that many, (I do not speak of all) even in these our dayes, misse the mark, no marvell.

For 1. Some of them Prov. 3.5, 6. lean unto their own wisdome, humane learning, arts, sciences, authority of men: and seek not the Lord by faith and prayer, to have direction, light and counsell from him; and hence, (and justly too) is that verefied on them, Rom. 1.2. professing themselves to be wise, they became fools.

2 It is an usuall thing with Scholars to follow one another right or wrong. The old Fathers (as they are call'd) apply­ed many things to their times, which as then had no relation, others coming after, say the very same, and look no further, and so one leads another out of the way:

3 Another cause of many mens mistake in the accommoda­tion of years, is confounding one thing with another, and dis­orderly setting down that first which should be last, and last first: thus they appply promiscuously to Jews and Gentiles, what should be distinguished, as proper but to one. Again, di­stinguish not between the Ecclesiasticall and Civill State, as to the rise and fall of both: cry up a present glorious condition of the Church, far before her warfare is accomplished.

Lastly, for such as are warie and cautious, how to meddle with the times. I shall say no more but thus. If a man towards the beginning of Harvest, should travell through the Countrie, from London to York, possibly then he would see very few Harvest la­bourers in the fields but let him passe the same way a few weeks after, he shall see people every where at work, and every one his hands full. At present we are but at the beginning of the Harvest, but I believe (and note it well) before one year is ex­pired, [Page 5]the Lord will send forth such a multitude of labourers in­to his Harvest, as not a man that is come out of Babylon, and hath seperated himself from all the abominations thereof: but will make it his speciall work to search Daniel, and the Revelaion, and diligently seek after the knowledge of the Times.

Objection 5. This pretending to Inspirations, Revelations, and the spirit of prophesie, is no other then what John of Leiden, Her­man, Rotman and Chipperdoling did, and so the Munster busi­nesse, whereby multitudes were betrayed, and driven to Rebellion, and great mischief and miserie followed.

Answer 1. This is no other aspersion and scandalons re­proach, then hath been cast by the enemies of the truth, upon all good men ever since, who have been zealously earnest for re­formation.

But 2. Such as are godly, wise, or able to put a difference between lying prophesies, and foolish visions, and a grace given unto Saints, to understand the mind of Jesus Christ in holy Scriptures, 2 John 2.20. John saith, Ye have an unction from the holy one, and ye shall know all things. To you (saith Mat. 11. Christ) it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdome: Psal. 25 14. The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him. Again, Prov. 3.32. His secret is with the righteous. Are not these Gospel promises, and Saints Priviledges, and attainable by the exercise and acts of faith. Pet. 2.6. He that believeth on him, shall not be confounded. Because the Spider turns many things into poyson, is the honey, wormwood and gall, which the Bee makes?

3 I could shew in severall particulars, how contrary (as light is to darknesse) the carriages and practises of the Mun­ster Impostors, (first and last) were, to what is either said or done by the godly of this age, who are of my opinion, namely, that the prophesies of the last times shall be revealed unto Saints near the end. Let Sleidan (or any other) who hath written the Historie of Munster, be perused by any impartiall Reader, and he shall not find any ground to frame a parralell, neither in reference to matter, manner, men. I have some thoughts, (seeing there is such a noise of Munster) shortly to discover the absurdity, ig­norance and malice of such people, who seek to disgrace good men, and through their sides to pierce the glorious work of [Page 6]God now begun amongst us, by raking into the businesse of Munster.

4. It is worth the observing, how sutably Satan hath carried on his Designe to keep men in ignorance, supestition, and bon­dage, and to hinder them from embracing the things belonging to their peace. Though he could never certainly and perfectly reach the knowledge of prophesies, as to the very time of their accomplishment: yet knowing that such and such things should come to passe, and having some conjecture near the time, his manner hath been beforehand, to corrupt the minds of the people (some way or other) with a prejudice against them, that so, when the thing it self should come to passe, men might neither believe nor receive the same.

Thus he raised up many false Christs, and why? that the true Christ might not be received when he came. So for this Munster Businesse. The Devill knew in the latter dayes, Tyrants and oppressors would be throw down, the An­tichristian kingdom destroyed; good men and good things ad­vanced: Now mark the craft of this wicked one; when the appointed time should come, in which these things were to be fulfilled, to the end that men might not then believe: He stir­red up before hand a company of Seducers to beguile the ignorant and simple people: meerly, (I say) upon this account, that when the time should come, that Tyranny and Oppression should be supprest, Babylon cast down, righteousnesse exalted; this work might not finde acceptation among the people, he having (as I said) poisoned before hand the mindes of the peo­ple, Note. by suggesting Munster and the effects of that businesse: So then in short, the summe is this, The Devill in causing that work at Munster, intended that it should be a snare to the people of this Age.

Having spoken to the Objections; I come now to Arguments, to prove that the knowledge of the times is needfull, possible, yea re­quired and ought to be searcht; And so to justifie Gods people, (ministers and others) who (by Faith, Prayer, Conference, meditation, reading) are now upon the work.

1. Because this is a part of the written word of God. Dan. 7.25. and 9.25, 26. and 12.7.11.12. Rev. 11.2, 3. and 12.6.14. and 13.18. Now John 5.39. Christ commandeth us to search the scri­ptures, [Page 7]the whole, and all, and not some part as we think good to pick and chuse: Rom. 15.4. Whatsoever things were written aforetime, were written for our ledrning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. Dan. 29 29 Those things which are revealed, belong unto us and to our children for ever. A servant being commanded to doe severall things, if he do onely a part of them, what he thinks fit and best, (as easiest) and not the rest; the master will not be pleased: so here,

2. Because the knowledge of the Times, is part of that Pro­phesie, and those good things to come, which the Rev. 1.1 father gave unto his son, to send and shew unto his servants. Christ did not send the letter without the sence: But intended, that it should be known and understood; therefore the sense and understanding is to be searcht.

3. It is said of the whole Prophesie, and consequently of the Times therein contained: Rev. 1.3. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophesie; I think no man takes it of an ig­norant and fruitlesse reading and hearing, without under­standing: for surely, such a hearing or reading Acts 8.30. makes no man happy. Besides it is such a reading and hearing, as may be the rule and ground of practice: Hence it is added, and keep those things which are written therein: Consequently then, it must be a reading with understanding and knowledge. Observe hence the rashnesse of some Teachers, who seek to discourage Saints, from that work, unto which alone, is pronoun­ced the promise of blessedness. They will allow men to read the years and times in the text, but they must not seek for the understanding. Just for all the world, as to bid a man to catch at the shaddow, but with all charge him not to toucht or take the fruit.

4. Let Christs words be well observed, When Mat. 29 15 yee therefore shall see the abomination of desolation spoken of by Daniel the Prophet, stand in the holy place; who so readeth, let him understand: he hath reference, no doubt to Dan. 9.27. and 11.31. and 12, 11. where the times of the end are declared and Characterized: Christ here cals upon us, not for reading, but for understanding Daniels weeks, dayes, times. Now doth Christ bid us understand Daniel; yea, in his numbers, how dares any mortall creature, reproach [Page 8]any for searching his Prophesies. Acts 4.2 Whether it be right in the sight of God, to hearken unto you, more then unto God, judge yee? A servant in not doing his duty, cannot be excused, but yet is more in ex­cusable, when with all he shall smite his fellow servants for doing their duties. I leave the application to the Reader.

5. It must be granted, that the holy scripture, either holds forth a certain, and set time, and period of years; in respect of the breaking of the fourth Monarchy, the destruction of the Antichristian kingdome, the end of the Turkish Empire, the slaying of the Witnesses, Christ taking the possession of the king­dome, and reigning, &c. or not: If there be no time set, and ap­pointed time; for what use then are these Texts, Dan. 7.25. and 9.25, 26, 27. and 12.11, 12. Hab. 2.3. Revel. 11.2, 3. and 12.6.14. If there be a time certain and fixt, then I would know; if nothing of the time is to be known, till after the accomplish­ment; how these and such other scriptures, can be said to be written for our learning and comfort? or, what benefit the Church and People of God have by having them written! Cae­sars letter though he carried it with him in his bosome into the Councel, yet not knowing the contents, it profited him no­thing. In the knowledge of the times, there lyes our comfort and safety; to have the words in our book, and no more, that helps not, though we have them with us still in our bosome.

6. Daniel being commanded, to Dan. 12.4. shut up the words, and seale the Book, even to the time of the end; afterwards, sees v. 5 two, the one standing on this side of the banck, and the other on that side of the banck of the river. These two, I take to be Types, the one a Type of the Christian Gentiles, the other of the Iewes; unto whom Iesus Christ (the man clothed in linnen) will open the mysteries of the times, a little before the end.

Three reasons I have for this,

1. They both make enquiry, How ^o long shall it be to the end of these wonders? Our Bibles reade, and one said to the man clothed. But the word (one) is not in the text; nor is there to be under­stood, for they spake both.

2. The man clothed in linnen (which was Christ) v. 7. holds up his right hand, and his left hand to heaven; wherefore both, and not one hand alone? 10.5. Because here are two, one on his right hand, [Page 9]another on his left, and both to be informed

3. They are both answered, as to their question, concerning the times. The Gentile type, hath his answer, v. 7. It shall be for a time, times, and an half: And the Jew type hath his answer, v. 11. From the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abo­mination that maketh desolate set up; there shall be a thousand two hun­dred and ninety dayes. From this I gather, some litle time before the end, the Lord will unseale the prophesies of Daniel, and reveal the times included, to some, both Iews and Gentiles. Those great mysteries of the times, which have been hid, and lookt up from former ages, shall be clearly opened to them, and they shall know how long it will be before the Fourth Monarch be destroyed, the witnesses slain, Euphrates dryed up, and Michael stand up for his people. And this they shall speak out to the world, and not one jot of their words shall fail. You will ask it may be, what will men say to this? It will be with these men, as it was with Hezekiah's messengers, some laughed them to scorn, 2 Chron. 30.11. and mo­cked them: Neverthelesse divers of Asher, and Manasseh, and of Zebu­lun, humbled themselves, and came to Jerusalem.

7. As the time of the end is neerer at hand, so the Prophesies, and consequently the times included, are to be unsealed, Dan. 12.9. Rev. 22.10. and 1.3. ope­ned, revealed. In Daniel 12.7. when a time, times, and an half, was proposed, and the Prophet professing he understood it not, v. 8. an answer was given v. 9. that the words were sealed up till the end; that is, untill the last time immediately before the end; as the phrase is used, Revelat. 11.7. Therefore in the time immediately before the accomplishment, these words are to be unsealed; that is, the meaning of them shall be known to Saints. Again this is further manifested by v. 10. Many shall be purified and made white and tryed; and none of the wicked shall under­stand, but the wise shall understand. So ver. 11. what they should un­derstand at the time of the end, in particular, is there more fully expressed. And from the time (saith the Angel) that the daily sa­crifices shall be taken away; and the abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be 1290. dayes.

Quest. But wherefore hath the Lord denyed the knowledge of the times to his people in former ages; and will reveal it to Saints neer unto the end.

I might here say, Mat. 11.26. in the words of our Lord, Even so father, for so it seemeth good in thy sight: But I Answer,

1. Gods administrations in the later Times, concerning a nati­on and Kingdom, Note. to pluck up, and pull down, and to destroy it, will be such as the instruments of the work, probably shall want former examples, and ordinary rules to walk by. Men at Sea having not the marks and directions, which travellers have on Land, need some other help to steer and order their course by: Gods way neer the end will be in the Sea, Psal. 77.19 and his path in the great wa­ters: So that as the actions of some men shall be rare, unex­emplary without president; so God will give them clear light in away suteable, that is, make them understand the times, and that it is now their proper work to act, so and so: in order to the fulfilling of the will and commandement of God, though the same (as the world judgeth) seem irrational, illegal, absurd, destructive to Religion, Law, Liberty, &c.

2. These latter times will be accompanied, with such great destractions, confusions, divisions, as people will be at a losse, and so in darknesse, that they will not know what to doe, which way to take, nor how to dispose of themselves. Reader, note it; Gods marvelous work now in the world, will move so contrary to mens expectations and self interest; as multi­tudes shall fall off daily; Isa. 60.2. yea, some good men shall be offended, and left behinde; Darknesse shall, cover the earth, and grosse dark­nesse the people: Neverthelesse, for the comfort and encourage­ment of the wise, the Lord shall arise upon them, and his glo­ry shall be seen upon them; and by the understanding of the times, which they shall have, God will make them instrumentall, for the perfecting of the good work which he hath begun. Thus not by might, Zech. 4.6. nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.

3. As the knowledge of the end, hath been concealed from former Ages, to prevent security, and to stir men up unto watchfulnesse; Mat. 24.42. Mar. 13.35 Luk. 12.40 as our Saviour expresly shews; so it is to be revealed to this last Age, to move men to repentance and a­mendment of life; that they should forsake all unrighteousness, guile, dissimulation, self-seeking; Doe justice, love mercy, lose the bonds of wickednesse, undoe the heavy burdens, and let the oppressed go free, and break every yoke. If a man fall into a pit, or snare, [Page 11]whereof he was before told and warned, he vexeth and grieves the more. When corrupt and deceitfull men shall see the very thing come to passe upon them, which before in the word of the Lord, was told them: namely within such a time, if they turn not from their evill wayes, and make their wayes and their doings good, the Lord will pluck them out of their dwelling places, lay them aside, break their power to pieces: Lord, what a torment and vexation this will be to them: that notwith­standing warned and admonished as from God, they should yet harden and hearten themselves to their own destruction. Prov. 5.12. How have I hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof? and have not obeyd the voice of my teachers, nor inclined mine ear to them that in­structed me.

4 For this cause likewise will the Lord have the book now opened, viz. to advance the honour and holinesse of his blessed word: we are in an age wherein most things are questioned: not only water-Baptisme, and whether there be a true Church: but whether there be a true God, a true Christ, a true Word, &c. Now as this is atime, wherein Satan appears against the holy Scriptures, and the truths therein contained, more violently and blasphemously then ever heretofore: so I confidently af­firm, and will abide by it, that the Lord will now arise and appear for the vindication of the holy Scriptures, more glo­riously and eminently then ever: And wherein can the excellen­cy of them be more advanced? the truths in them more ma­nifested? the contemners of them more ashamed and silenced, then that the wise should understand. For what Athiest will not blush, and be confounded, when he shall most evidently see such things come to passe this year and the next, and so for­ward, till the year, 1770. as was foretold: And that in order to the fulfilling of prophesies and visions, recorded, some fif­teen hundred years, others, two thousand years before, and more:

Having proved by severall Arguments, that the knowledge of the times, is possible, and ought to be searched, and wherefore the same (though concealed from former ages) is to be reveal­ed to the last age. I come now to the Prophesies themselves. In Daniel I find five speciall prophesies, in reference to the time [Page 12]of the end, Chap. 7.25. Chap. 9.24, 25, 26, 27. Chap. 12.7, 11, 12.

The three first concern the Christian Gentiles, the two latter the Jews; and in them are comprehended all the works of both: that is, when those years are expired, then their whole warfare shall be accomplished, and they shall be no more two, but one; and one shepherd shall be set over them. Howsoever I intend to set forth these things, more at large in another Trea­tise; yet something I will speak now, as to the times, both of the Gentiles, and of the Jews. And first to that place in Da­niel, Dan. 7.25. Ʋntill a time, and times, and dividing of times.

In Scripture we find time, to be taken for dayes, as Dan 4. comparing v. 16. with 34. By dayes, years are to be understood. Your children shall wander in the wildernesse forty dayes, Numb. 14.33, 34. Ezek. 4.6 each day for a year. Again, Thou shalt bear their iniquity forty dayes, and I have appointed thee each day for a year. In propheticall use, a day, that is, a year, containeth 360 dayes, or years. This Daniel calls a time. The word times, signifies so much more, that is, 720 years. The dividing of time is, 180 dayes, or years, the whole put toge­ther, makes 1260 years: and so much, the spirit of God ex­presly declares in Rev 12. where a thousand two hundred and threescore dayes, v. 6. is said to be, a time, and times, and half a time v. 14.

Before we come to the accommodation of these years, we are to speak of the ten horns, and the little horn: first of their rise, then their fall; that is, their beginning and ending: For their rise or beginning, it is to be understood, either as hid and se­cret or more plain and open. These ten horns, I understand to be the Romane Empire, dissolved into ten parts or Kingdoms. In the enumeration of them, some produce them thus. Brittany, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Africa, Asia, Graecia, Syria, and Egypt. I shall set down what to me, is most probable. 1. The kingdom of the Brittains, 2 of the Saxons both in Brittany, 3 of the kingdom of the Franks, 4 of the Burgundians, both in France, 5 The kingdome of the West Gothes, in the Southern part of France, and part of Spain, 6. the Sueves and Alanes in part of Spain, 7 the Kingdome of the Vandals in Africa, a little before in Spain, 8. The Alemanes in Rhaetia, and Noricum, Provinces of Ger­many. 9 the Kingdome of the East Goths in Ponnonia, a little [Page 13]before in Italy, Lastly the Kingdome of the Greeks, in the remnant of the Empire. Though this Decharchicall division doth not continue, yet that it was so at first, is apparent by History.

For their Rise, which was obscure and dark, Dan. 7.8. which gave Daniel occasion to consider the hornes, (as being so low and short that he could scarce perceive them) this was about the year of our Lord, 388. It is true, the fall of the Empire was by de­grees, and it was 40 years after, or more, before the same was effectually dissolved. Neverthelesse about this time, to wit the year 388. those horns did appear, though obscure, and little, (as I said before) in Rev. 17.12. The horns which thou sawest, are ten Kings, which have received no Kingdome as yet, but receive pow­er at Kings one hour with the Beast, that is, they had not at first a Soveraignty, Majesty, Power, Priviledges, which af­terwards they possest, and were confirmed in. Now adde un­to 388. (which was the time of the rise of the ten horns, and the Romane Empire its beginning to dissolve) Daniels number, namely, 1260. and it extendeth to the year of Christ, 1648.

This year, to wit the year 1648. do I affirm with much as­surance, was the time, when the Thrones were set, and the anci­ent of dayes did sit, as is expressed in Dan. 7.9, 10. Here began the Lord God Almighty, to call Kings and Kingdomes to an account, to cast down the mighty from their seats, to cut off the spirit of Princes, and to be terrible unto the Kings of the earth. And this work goes forward still, and shall prevail and prosper, to the utter breaking and destroying of the fourth Monarch, or Romane Empire, dissolved into ten Kingdomes: And the little horn, that is, the Antichristian State, and Kingdom likewise.

I know it will be expected, that I give some reasons for what is here asserted, especially, it being delivered with so much confidence: This I shall willingly do.

1 Howsoever our Chronicles give the Romane Empire some kind of interest and title to the Brittains, till the year 440. yet it was rather in name then in thing; For after the year 388. the Romanes never exercised that power here which they did before, onely now and then (and that upon earnest intreaty) they sent hither some relief against the Scots and Picts, & having) [Page 14]done their work, immediately returned back again, leaving the Brittons to themselves. Thus their Histories serve to give some light unto Daniels visions concerning the Times. Howso­ever their thoughts were not at all carried out on such a thing.

2. Who ever was the last, certain it is, that England was the first of the ten horns, and therefore here first were the throns set up, and judgement given upon the King and Kingdome. True and righteous are his judgements. Rev. 19.2.

3. The high Court of Justice, which was erected in the Year 1648. before which, the last of our kings had his tryal and sen­tence, was no other, then that throne of God, mentioned in Dan. 7.9, 10. I doe not confine the thrones in Daniel, and the sitting of the ancient of dayes, unto England. For I know the Lord will have his thrones speedily set up in other kingdomes; as France, Spain, Denmark, &c. and as he proceeded here, so he will do there, JƲDICATORY against Kings and Kingdomes. But to the point in hand, What was done by the Parliament and High court of Justice, in taking away the king, and changing (in part) the form of Government, was no other then a fulfilling of that prophesie in Daniel. Not that our Statesmen thought so, or so intended; but God did put it in their hearts to fulfill his will, that it should be so. And whereas this thing, not being before heard of, possibly will be sleighted; therefore for prevention, I shall let the Reader know my reasons for it.

1. It was given by the Angel unto Daniel, that the continuance of the ten horns or kingdomes, after their rise and appearing, should be onely 1260 years, untill the thrones were set. In the year 1648. that term expired, for against the English horn, the Ancient of dayes came, and gave judgement. So that it must necessary fol­low, in the year 388. the Brittons became one of the horns. We need not be beholding to humane histories, where the Scri­pture is clear, notwithstanding in this point, our Chronocles (as I said even now) agree with Daniel, as to the rise of the Brit­tish horn.

2. From accommodating the years, let us consider the work and thrones: For the work first, It is true, in all ages before this, Kings have been deposed, imprisoned, put to death; but it was [Page 15]rather mans siting on the throne, then the Ancient of dayes; for what they did, was only cutting off one horn or Tyrant, and setting another up: whereas root and branch was here taken a­way. And this is the proper work of Thrones, to change the times & seasons: dissolve foundations, and remove former Pillars, I say absolutely, and utterly to break in pieces and consume the ten horns or kingdomes; their places must not be found any more upon earth: But a new form of government, is to be constituted and set up.

3. That the Ancient of dayes hath set up his throne in England, I am further confirmed, by the happy dissolution of the late Parliament; really, I have wondred, that the Lord should suf­fer such men, so long to prophane his throne; Psal. 89.14. Justice and judge­ment are the habitation of thy throne: Psal. 9.4. Thou satest in the throne doing right, saith David, Psal. 9.4.

I know many are in darknesse concerning this great change, & not able to apprehend the true ground and cause therof, they run, some into mistakes, some into discontents, some into rage and fury. For the satisfying therefore of such people, who desire to eye God, and his hand which is lifted up; I shall shew what is the true cause, that the Parliament was dissolved.

The Ancient of days, having set up his throne amongst us (from which he will speak to, and plead with the Nations round a­bout) was pleased to honour those men formerly in place, as to admit them, to sit upon his Throne: And because (like Jehu) they did well in executing that which was right in the eyes of the Lord, and did unto the house of Charls Stuart, all that was in his heart; the Lord suffered them many years to sit on the throne of England: but taking no heed to walk in the law of the Lord God of Israel, but flying upon the spoile, and giving countenance and encouragement to the sins of Jeroboam: God at last rejected them, as he did Saul. And for this cause, raised up the Generall; I say, for the Thrones sake, that they might be no longer polluted and prophaned by such a generation of cor­rupt men. And had not the Generall done what he did, to have the Thrones purged from that drosse and filth, which clea­ved thereto. I know not how he could have answered God, for that power, and trust which he hath put into his hands.

And here (by the way) let me speak a word unto such as shall sit next upon this Throne; I would have men consider well be­forehand what they doe. Its Gods own throne, and to speake comparatively, it is the onely Civil Throne, he hath now in the world; By it he will doe mighty and terrible things: And therefore such as are not for Christ, and for the carrying on of his designe in the world, he will lay them aside, one after ano­ther. And set such up, as shall poure out the last Vials quickly upon Monarchs, and the Antichristian Kingdome.

One thing more, I shall add, in Rev. 16.10. It is said, And the fift Angel poured out his vial upon the throne of the Beast (so the Greek hath it, throne, not seat) and his kingdome was full of darknesse: By the throne of the Beast, I understand the ten horns, that is, the States and Kingdomes of the World, which gave authority and power to the Beast. By darknesse, I doe not understand, (at least not chiefly) that which is spirituall, as in reference to their Errors, Superstitions, Idolatries, &c. for so that kingdome was full of darknesse before: but it is meant of amazement and distraction: not knowing what to doe, nor seeing any way how to come out. For application to the thing in hand; after the death of the late king, his throne and kingdom perishing under the fifth Vial: how were people then generally at their wits end? in such darknesse, as they fell one upon another. So upon the dis­solving of this Parliament (which was so degenerate, as it lookt more like the throne of the beast, then Gods throne) what a thick darknesse is now gone over men, as if an Angel had smit­ten them with blindnesse, as were the Sodomites. And this you must expect still along, that as Thrones, States, Powers, are broken to pieces: so confusion, destraction, and darknesse will ever fol­low; especially among hypocrites, time-servers, and the Anti­christians. None of the wicked shall understand, but the wise shall un­derstand, Dan. 10.12.

And therefore, for the Generall, and such with him, whom the Lord used as seasonable and good instruments to dissolve the late Parliament; here may they see a divine stamp and chara­cter upon their work, even Gods owning both it and them; namely by this darknesse, which is fallen upon the children of this world. Had the Antichristians approved it: had those [Page 17]which have enriched themselves (Ministers and others) un­der the late Parliament, appeared in it, and for it, had our Judges and Lawyers cryed it up, Law, Law; had the Clergy given thanks for it. In a word, had the people through the whole Nation sent in their approbation and consent to it, a man might very well have questioned the worke, whether it were of God, or no. But considering upon the breaking of this Throne, what darkness followed in Priest, in People: It is most evident and cleare, that it was not Gods Throne, but mans rather, and for this end thrown down, that the anti­ent of dayes may have his throne set up, and he sit againe most gloriously amongst us.

From the ten hornes, I come now to the Little horne, who is said to weare out the Saints of the most high, and thinke to change times and lawes. I know it is the common received opinion, that Antiochus Epiphanes is here meant. Why I take it other­wise, not Antiochus, but Antichrist, or the Antichristian King­dome to be here understood, my Reasons are these.

1. Such as affirme Antiochus to be the little horne, Dan 7.8.20. do reckon him as one of the ten: But it is expresly said, that he came up after them, and is besides them, and another.

2. In Dan. 8.9. 'tis said, that this little horn waxed great, grew statelier then the rest, and over-topt the former Beasts and hornes: Now all know, that know any thing of the History of Antiochus Epiphanes, that this is neither so, nor so; for Antio­chus Magnus was greater, and more powerfull by farre then he.

3. Dan. 7.8. For the three hornes which the little horne is said to plucke up by the roots: as Writers cannot agree who they were, so it is apparant that this Antiochus never did the things which they do ascribe unto him.

4. For the words, Ʋntill a time, times, and dividing of time, they cannot be applyed to the rage of Antiochus against the Saints, nor with his actions and proceedings against the Iews, as is most apparent, by comparing the phrase, with other Texts, Rev. 11.2. and 12.6.14.

5. If Antiochus had been the little horne, then after his death should the kingdome of the Seleucidae immediately have been [Page 18]given up to the Jews. For it is as clear as the sun at noon-day, upon the destruction of the little horn, Dan 7.21, 22. the Saints immediately possesse his Kingdom. But it is well known, that the Iewes by the destruction of Antiochus, had no restauration, but continued still after that in bondage, and subject to the Roman power.

To apply this (as many doe) to the coming of Christ in the flesh, and so of a spirituall Kingdome, and liberty, is most ab­surd and groundlesse. For not only was Christ born two or three hundred years after, but it is quite beside the scope and purpose of the place, as follows.

6. In vers. 27. it is said, And the kingdome, and dominion, and the greatnesse of the Kingdome under the whole heaven shall be given to the people of the most high. Observe here, whatsoever King­dome, Dominion, Greatnesse, &c. the Beast and the little horne had, upon their destruction, the Saints shall have the same. Now this cannot be understood of a spirituall Kingdome: For, 1. the Saints had ever that, and Christ spiritually alwayes reign­ed over them.

2. Note. The Beast and the little horne never had a spiritual King­dome, which should be given up to the Saints after their de­struction: And therefore the Kingdome, and dominion, and great­nesse, possessed first by the Beast and little horne, and after their ruine to be given to the Saints, must needs be civill and tem­porall.

Why I take the little horn to be Antichrist, my reason for it is this: It is generally held, that the holy Scripture is best in­terpreted by comparing pararall Texts. Now this is cleare, whatsoever in Daniel is spoken of the little horne, the same in other Scripture is applyed to Antichrist. For example,

1. As the little horne is conjoyned with the ten hornes, Dan. 7.7, 8.20.24. so is Antichrist with the ten hornes, Revel. 17.12, 13.

2. Such practises and proceedings, as in Daniel are attri­buted to the little horne, the very same are applyed to Anti­christ, in other Texts.

1. That hee shall speake great swelling words against God, Dan. 7.25. The same is said of Antichrist, Rev. 13.5, 6.

2. That he shall advance himselfe against the Civill Magi­strate, [Page 19] Dan. 7.20. & 8.25. So Antichrist, 2 Thes. 2.4.

3. It is said of the little horne, that he shall change times and lawes, Dan. 7.25. So Antichrist is called the lawlesse one, 2 Thes. 2.8.

4. The little horne is said to make war against the Saints, Dan. 7.21.25. So Antichrist, Revel. 13.7.

Againe, for the time alotted to the little horne, and the space of his tyranny, Dan. 7.25. it is the same expresly with Anti­christ, Rev. 12.6.14 & 13.5.

Lastly, for the end and destruction of them both, compare Dan. 7.9, 10.11. with Rev. 19.21. and Dan. 7.13, 14. with 2 Thes. 2.8.

Thus having proved the little horne to be Antichrist, I come now to some particulars concerning his rise and fall. Dan. 7.20. Accor­ding to Daniel, he seems to be af er the ten hornes: Re [...] [...]. Yet John saith, the ten hornes receive power as Kings one houre with the beast. The places are easily reconciled, as thus: Their rise was toge­ther, no difference or distance in point of Time: but Anti­christ is said to be after the ten hornes, as receiving from them his power, dominion, jurisdiction.

Againe, for the Readers better understanding, as to the rise and fall of the little horne, there are two things I would have him observe.

1. The little horne is to be considered as the Kingdom of the Beast, and as the members, or worshippers of the Beast: By the Kingdome of the Beast, I understand him, as changing times and lawes: By the members, as making warre against the Saints.

2. [...] speak of the little horne, or Antichrist, I doe not meane [...] of the Pope, or any succession that way, but I meane [...], or Kingdome. It is true, the Pope is a member of that body, but he is not the body.

Againe, I do not here intend alone the Church, Ministery, worship, and government of Rome. But I include all false Chur­ches, Ministries, Formes, Ordinances, Institutions, brought in by men: whatsoever in the worship of God is besides, or contrary to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. All this, whether in England, or Scotland, make up this Antichristian Kingdome, as that in Rome.

Now for the rise or beginning of this Antichristian Kingdom; First, as it was obscure and darke, so it had its beginning in the yeare of our Lord, 400. to this adde 1260. and it goes to the yeare 1660. And here is the time of the end, concerning the whole Antichristian kingdome; for further, and beyond this time, I believe it shall not extend. I do not say, that the Anti­christians, or members of the Beast, shall perish now, or before; for I hold the contrary, that after their Kingdome is destroy­ed, many of them shall remain, and attempt most horrible and cruell actions: Rev. 18.21. Rev. 17.1. but for the State it selfe, that shall be found no more at all after the year 1660. This the Angel calls the Judg­ment of the great whore. Why Judgement? because Thrones shall be set, and the ancient of dayes shall sit: And look, as by a law, Kings and Kingly power shall be cast out from the Nations, so will the Lord raise up men zealous of his glory, who shall publiquely give Judgment agaist Babylon, that it remaine for ever in the dust.

Before I come to shew my reasons for the time which I have asserted, I shall commend these three things to the Reader.

1. How I understand that place, Rev. 10.2. where the mighty Angell, sets his right foot upon the sea, and his left foot upon the earth. As by the Angel Christ is meant, so as he stands, it is upon the two persecuting powers in the world, the spiritu­all and the temporal: His right foot is upon the Note how they call it the Sea of Rome, the Bishops Sea, &c. sea; you know the spirituall power went ever before the temporall: Hence they used to say, the Lords spirituall, and the Lords temporall. And his left foote on the earth; that is, on the Kings and Kingdomes of the earth. So then my opinion is, that these [...] [...]owers Christ will crush under his feet together, an [...] [...] time. There was a truth in that saying, no Bishop, no Kin [...]e event made it true: and welfare a good token. So now, as the reliques of Monarchy which remaine yet with us shall bemoved, so will the remainers of the Antichristian Kingdome be remo­ved with them. As Monarchy falls, so falls Antichristime: When no foot-steps of Monarchy remaine, nothing then will stand of the Antichristian kingdome, which came in with it, and hath ever since been upheld and supported by it.

And for this cause a long time, I never expected any good from the late Parliament: For I plainly saw, they had no de­sire [Page 21]to glorifie God (in the fulfilling of his will) to the roo­ting up of the remnants either of Monarchy or Antichistime: but rather sought to oppresse the bodies and souls of the peo­ple under the heavy burthens of them both.

2. Thou art to take notice (Reader) that as the the thrones were first set up in England to arreign Monarchy, and to pluck up by the root that tyrannicall power which stood in opposi­tion to Jesus Christ, and to avenge the blood of his Saints up­on it: Even so (as sutable to it) here with us will begin his great work (by the Thornes) against the kingdome of Anti­christ, for the totall extirpation thereof. For howsoever I said before, that the Antichristian State (as Church, Ministe­ry, Worship, Government) shall be wholly destroyed before the yeare 1660. Yet I am of opinion, in respect of England, Scotland, and Ireland, before one halfe of that time is expired, the Supream Authority of this Nation will effectually finish that work. Zech. 8.6. If it be marvellous in the eyes of the remnant of this people in these dayes: should it be marvellous in my eyes, saith the Lord of Hosts?

What progresse in this worke they will make, who shall come next in place, I cannot tell: but this I must tell them; the great businesse which the Lord hath for the higher Powers of this Common-wealth now to doe, it is in order to the ful­filling of those Prophesies which relate to the present time: and if they do not look now after this, and honour God in a conscientious and faithfull discharge thereof; the Lord will not look after them, nor honour them, but lay them aside, and let their names rot, as others before: And therefore if my counsell may be acceptable unto them; when any shall make adresses to them for Peace with Babylon, let them make answer in his words, What peace, so long as the whoredomes of Jezabel and her witch-crafts are so many? What Peace, so long as the 4 ^th Monarch is not broken to pieces, and consumed? I would willingly know how men can enter into a league, as to sit still, and suffer such things to stand, against which the Lord cals them forth to warre, and to destroy from the face of the earth. I have commanded my sanctified ones; Isa. 13.2. I have also called my mighty ones for mine anger, even them that rejoyce in my highnesse.

[Page 22] 3. As Christ will crush both powers at once, and thus by the Thrones: so there will be a speciall opening of his minde unto [...]om [...], whereby to know both their worke and time. As men formerly have observed Providence, so in the later age, Ier. 50.2. they shall understand Prophesies, and act in order to them, and to the accomplishment of them. Declare yee among the Na­tions, and publish and set up a standard, publish and conceale not, say Babylon is taken. The knowledge of the time of the end will be so cleare and certain to some men now shortly in power and place, as they will publickly declare upon what account they act, namely as being chosen and called of God to execute the vengeance of the Lord upon Babylon. Moreover the difference shall not be (as heretofore) about meum and tuum; for ho­nour, greatnesse, enlargement of Dominion, and such world­ly respects, but better bottomed: it shall be for Christ, his Crown and dignity, and that righteousnesse and truth may be exalted in the earth.

For the Reasons now, why I say the Antichristian King­dome (as it is the little horne) had its rise about the year 400.

1. About this time they began to open a passage to their pretended Supremacy, as giving to the Church of Rome the title of the Firmament of all Bishops, and top of all Churches, and that without the privacie of the Sea Apostolique, that is, of the Primate, none might presume to ordaine a Bishop, and that the Censures of Bi­shops in all causes of moment, was to be referred to the audience of the Bishop of Rome.

2. About this time the little horne began to give check to Emperours and Kings, and to exalt himselfe above the Civill Magistrate, in severall particulars.

3. About this time they brought in many beastly lies, and superstitious vanities, confirming them by Councels, whereby Gods commandements were made of none effect.

4. It is clear to me by other Scriptures (which I have not now time to open) that the time alotted to the Antichristi­an Kingdome shall not passe the yeare 1660. Now being to continue from first to last, 1260. years, it must needs be, that his beginning was in the yeare 400. as I said before.

Here I must againe put the Reader in mind, that howsoever [Page 23] the vile person mentioned, Dan. 11.21. be the same here with the little horne, that is, the Antichristian Kingdome. Yet they are to be differenced in point of time, as not having their be­ginning and rise together.

In this place the Antichristian Kingdome is the little horne, but not the vile person, because the basenesse and abhominable iniquity of that State, was not so high and full as afterwards it was, and appeared to the world: and therefore then rightly called the vile person, and not the little horne.

But to proceed, from the State-plague, I come to what is personall. After the Ecclesiasticall Kingdom shall be destroy­ed; Every plant which the heavenly father hath not planted, Mat. 1. [...].13. rooted up, the Antichristians, and worshippers of the Beast will remaine, and in as much blindnesse, and hardnesse of heart as before. And so much appears, Revel. 18.9.11, 12, &c. where the Kings of the Earth and the Merchants are brought in weeping and wailing, when they see the smoake of the burning. Now to finde out the time of the end, concerning these mens destruction, we must enquire after the first warr which the worshiprers of the Beast made against the Saints.

Twice the woman is said to flye into the wildernesse: Rev. 12.6.14. And two warres the Antichristians made against her: the former, when that State was the little horne: the later, when it was the vile person. Of the first now I intend only to speak: Although the later, which was against the Waldenses, be more memora­ble, both for the cruelty and continuance of it, and will give much light to the matter I have in hand: and therefore I pur­puse (by the good hand of God assisting me) shortly to set it forth.

The first warre (I finde) made against the people of God by the Antichristians, was in the yeare 406. About that time wee read of a people called Donatists, who by the Antichristian Cler­gy and others, were held Schismaticks, Hereticks, Blasphemers, &c. and no otherwise proceeded against, and persecuted, then if they had beene indeed most wicked people. Others after them (specially the Priests) even to this day (as Carriers horses) follow the steps of their fore-fathers, not taking no­tice who were their accusers, nor the particulars whereof they were accused.

These Donatists (by what doth appeare in the writings of their adversaries) were honest men, sound in the faith, and suffered very much for the Truth sake. Concerning their o­pinions, howsoever we have them not, but as reported, and set downe by their Enemies (who no doubt made things as bad as they could) yet we shall take them as from them.

1. They denyed the publique Assemblies; that is, the Parish Churches of the Papists, as not being the Churches of Christ rightly constituted, and separated from them, because of the leaven and abhominations therein.

2. They refused to submit to that power and form of Go­vernment, which the little horne had devised and set up.

3. They held that the Sacraments were no otherwise holy, then as they were given and taken by holy men.

4. It was their opinion that the Magistrate should not compell mens consciences, not force unto acts of Religion.

5. They are accused, as being Millenaries, that is, did believe and teach that Jesus Christ in his humane nature, should perso­nally reign upon Earth.

I know other things are laid to their charge, but so impro­bable; yea impossible (if such particulars as these were their Tenets) as their Enemies might have been asham'd to put them gether; and others since more asham'd of their ignorance and simplicity, as not to see how ridiculous, absurd, and contra­dictory the old Popish Fathers are ( Augustine himself) in the Story which they have left behind them, concerning the Do­nat [...]sts. But to proceed.

Against these good men (in whom began the witnesses that should prophesie a thousand two hundred and threescore dayes, Note. cloa­thed in sack-cloath) warred the little horne (in his worship­pers) by Canons, Rev. 11.3. Councels, Emperiall Edicts, &c. to the shedding of much innocent and precious blood: And this was (as I said before) in the yeare 406. to which 1260. yeares be­ing added, it comes to the yeare 1666. and to the number of the Beast 666. So then in briefe, my opinion is this: As the Anti­christian State shal be destroyed before or by the year 1660. and all that fulfilled which is set down, Rev. 18. so, not beyond the yeare 1666. shall the Antichristians themselves, and worshippers [Page 25]of the Beast, escape the vengeance of the Lord, and of his Temple. But either by repentance from dead workes, come in, and put themselves under the glorious Scepter of Jesus Christ; or cast into the great Wine-presse of the wrath of God, and so that fulfilled, Rev. 19. And here the Lord wil put an end, and pe­riod to all the troubles of the Gentile Churches, not to goe beyond, or further then the yeare 1666. After that time they shall be called to the marriage supper of the Lamb, and sing Allelu­jah, salvation, and glory, and honour, and power unto the Lord God: Alle­lujah, for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth.

I have done for this time with the first Prophesie. For the second which concerns the 70. weeks, I know 'tis generally applyed to the coming of Christ in the flesh, and to his death and sufferings: but I understand it otherwise, as being one of the choisest and clearest Prophesies in all the Scripture, con­cerning the later times, chiefly the two Witnesses; a matter at this time much spoken of, and about which godly men are diversly minded.

I am not willing to enter upon it now, but promise the Reader, he shall suddenly have it in an entyre Tract, for it lies ready by me for the Presse. From the Gentiles therefore, I come to the time of the end belonging to the Jewes, set down in Dan. 12.11, 12. And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the abhomination that maketh desolate, set up, there shall be a thousand two hundred and ninety dayes. Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty dayes.

It is most certain, that Jesus Christ by his death, did put a­way all Jewish sacrifices; he did (I say) Iure, and in right destroy them vertually by his owne sacrifice, the fulnesse and end of all their shadowes: Notwithstanding facto, and actual­ly after his death many years, and by divers steps and degrees. For after the taking and sacking of Jerusalem by Titus, the Ci­tie not destroyed, the Jewes still there inhabited, and con­tinued their vaine worship with more ignorant zeale then be­fore.

For 1. In the Reign of Adrian the Roman Emperour, who built and dedicated a Temple in Jerusalem to Jupiter Olympius, [Page 26]at which the Jewes being offended, rebelled and made head, and in the end were overcome and dispersed, and the Citie named Aelia, and given into the possession of the Gentiles; whereas before untill that time, they had not ceased there, from sacrifice.

2. Being expelled the Citie, yet they continued their su­perstitions in the Countrey, and built an Altar under the Oak Mamre (where the Angels appeared to Abraham) and forced the Merchants which came to the Faires to sacrifice thereon, otherwise they should not traffique. Constantine the Great de­molished the Altar, and built there a Church for the Chri­stians.

3. In the dayes of Julian the Apostate, and professed Ene­mie of Christians, in despight of the Christian faith, he re­called the Jewes which were dispersed to and fro, to return into their own land, gave them license to build the Temple, and to re-establish the Leviticall service, and furnished them with work-men, money, materialls, and other necessaries out of the publique stock. The Jewes embracing so large a grant, attempted the building of the Temple, laid the foundation not wholly razed down before, wherein they were met by a speciall hand of God: For a fearfull Earth-quake, with thunder, lightning, and fire-balls from Heaven, in one night destroyed all their worke and tools, and totally overthrew the foundation of the Temple: so that they were constrained to forbeare their work, and all further proceeding; and after that time the Jewish sacrifices did for ever cease.

It is also memorable, how Cyril then Bishop of Jerusalem, told the Jewes of this Prophesie; and seeing no admonition or perswasion would prevaile, he openly professed, that now the time was come of which Christ spake unto his Disci­ples, Mat. 24.2. concerning the Temple, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down. This total desolation of the Temple, under the reign of Julian (in which the Iew­ish sacrifices were wholly taken away) fell out in the year 365. to which 1290. being added, doe make up 1655. The time designed for the rising and beginning of the Jewes, after their long dispersion.

And here for the Readers better understanding, three things I shall propound to him.

1. I do not understand (though many doe) any generall conversion of the Iewes at this time unto the faith, by the preaching of the Gospell, but only arising amongst them, up­on a civill account, to recover their own Countrey.

About this time (namely the yeare 1655.) if not before; my opinion is (and grounded I conceive on the holy word) that the Turk with great Forces will come into Italy. Dan. 11.40. At the time of the end shall the King of the South push at him; that is, come out against the Pope, yet so, as he shall effect little or nothing, but suddenly depart: For tidings out of the East, Dan 11.44. and out of the North shall trouble him; that is, news shall be brought unto him of an insurrection of the Iewes through all parts of his Em­pire, making head, forming themselves into a Body, and entring into the land of Iudea. The first-shall say to Sion, behold, Isa. 41.27. behold them, and I will give to Ierusalem one that bringeth good ti­dings. It seems to hold forth the Messengers of the Jews, which shall passe from place, to place with tidings of their designe, and to bring others in, for the sooner and better effecting of it.

Hereupon the Grand Signeor is said to be troubled: and no marvail: For

1. He knows well, that the Iewes are a great people, and for wealth, and warlike abilities, able to cope with the great­est Monarch in the world.

2. They are domestick Enemies, besetting him before and behind, eating out the bowels and revenues of his State.

3. Their rising is sudden, from all parts of Arabia, and Sy­ria, and their faction grows exceeding strong before he hears of it: So that the suddenness of it did presage some evil event; as is ever observed amongst Politicians, 2 Sam. 20.2.6.

4. He is the more troubled, as being with his Forces at such a distance from them.

And lastly, who knows, but he shall be troubled now, in re­membring an old tradition which the Turks have; that at last they shall be subdued and destroyed by the children of Isaak.

Here by the way, take notice, that the Turk having brought [Page 28]his Forces out of Asia & Affrica into Italy, against the Christi­ans, Revel. 15.12. Isa. 11.25. & 51.10, 11. or rather Antichristians: This I take to be the drying up of the river Eupbrates, & the waters thereof, that the way of the Kings of the East might be prepared. The meaning seems to be thus; the power and strength of the Turkes being in Christendom, the Jewes (improving the advantage and opportunity of the time) wil rise, and repair to their own land, and by a strong hand re-enter and take the possession of it. And this they shall do (as I said before) only upon a Hence it is said they shall take the King­dom, Dan. 7.18. and after the Kingdom shall be given them, vers. 27. Dan. 11.44. Dan. 12.1. Dan. 11.45. Ezek 38.8, 9, 10, 11. Civill account, taking example from other Nations, to shake off the yoke of Tyrants, and to be a free people.

2. The Jewes being entred into their own Countrey: The Turke shall goe forth with great fury to destroy, and utterly to make away many. And here begins the time of trouble, such as never was since there was a Nation, even to that same time. Most cruell and bloody warres between the Jewes and Turkes. This conflict shall be (for the most part) in Judea: And he shall plant the ta­bernacles of his Palace between the seas in the glorious holy mountain: that is, the borders, or continent betwixt Euphrates, and the Mediterranean. Of this warre, and place speaketh Ezekiel. In the later dayes thou shalt come into the land that is brought backe from the sword, and is gathered out of many people, against the moun­taines of Israel, which have been alwayes wast: But it is brought forth of the Nations, and they shall dwell safely all of them. Thou shalt ascend, and come like a storme, thou shalt be like a cloud to co­ver the land, Zech. 14.2, 3. thou and all thy hands with thee, &c. So Zechariah, I will gather all Nations against Jerusalem, and the Citie shall be taken, and the houses rifled, and the women ravished, and half of the Citie shall goe forth into captivity, and the residue of the people shall not be cut off from the Citie. Then shall the Lord goe forth and fight against those Nations, &c.

Moreover as this War is expressed in holy Scripture, and the place, so the continuance of it, how long it shall be. Blessed is he that waiteth, Dan. 12.12. and cometh to the thousand three hundred & five and thirty dayes. This later number is more then the for­mer by 45. years. And so long shall this war continue between the Jews and the Turks, namely from the year 1655. to 1700. Sometimes the one getting the better, sometimes the other.

[Page 29] 3. These years being expired, about the year 1700. Dan. 12.7. Rev. 1.7. Mi­chael the great Prince will stand up for his people. Behold hee cometh with the clouds, and every eye shall see him, &c. This is the SET TIME in which the Lord will arise and have mercy upon Sion. Psal. 102.13. His feet shall stand in that day upon the Mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the East: and the Mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the East, and toward the West, and there shall be a very great valley, and halfe of the mountaine shall remove to­ward the North, and halfe of it toward the south. Ioel 3.2. And he will plead with them there for his people, and for his heritage Israel. The Turk now totally and finally shall be destroyed. His army probably, beside the Sea of Gennezaret, Ezek. 39.11. Joel 3.2. Isa. 60.8. Am. 9.14, 15. Ezek. 37.21, 22. Isa. 60.18. Ezek. 34.31. Isa. 49.19, 20. Ezek. 37.22.24. Hos. 1.11. Rev. 21.24. Isa. 49.23. Zeph. 3.19, 20. otherwise called the lake of Tiberias, and the Turk himselfe at, or neer Jerusalem. Upon this shall follow a speedy and sudden conversion of the Jewes: In one day, and at once, as the Prophet speaks. And af­ter this, they shall dwell in their owne Land in safety, inha­bite all the parts of it as before; their Countrey shall be more fertile and populous then ever it was, a most flourishing State of Church and Common-wealth. There shall be, after this victory once obtained, no separation any more of the tenne Tribes from the other two, but both shall make one entire Kingdom. All Nations shall come in to them, and honour them, and willingly, or perforce submit unto the Govern­ment of Jesus Christ.

But to return to the year 1655. It is the opinion of many, (and I am of the same mind) that sixe thousand yeares from the Creation, doe meet with the ending of this year 1655. which is neer at hand, and great Revolutions are look't for at that time: For the particulars I find them not exprest, but to me, these fearefull and terrible changes seeme to be these five.

1. The Turke, his coming against Italy with such multi­tudes, will fill all Europe with terrour, and amazement; and howsoever his stay here shall be short (as was said before) yet it will be the occasion, and rise of marvellous changes to follow afterwards.

2. In this year will the Lord most eminently appear, sha­king the Earth, Hag 2.22. and overthrowing the Thrones of Kingdomes e­very [Page 30]where in Europe: By this time (I verily think) the Thrones will be set, Isa. 26.11. and the Ancient of dayes sitting thereon. The Prophet saith, Lord, when thy hand is lifted up, they will not see, but they shall see, and be ashamed. Hitherto what God hath done in over­turning, overturning, overturning (the Bishops first, the King next, the Parliament last) it is not observed, as the righteous hand of God. 2 Pet. 3.4. All things continue (saith the Scoffer) as they were from the beginning of the Creation. But know this, in the year 1655. the Viall shall be so full, poured out so fast, and lye so close & hot upon the persecuting powers of the world, as they shall then see, and be ashamed, begin to take notice that it is the wrath of the Lamb which followes after them. It is reported of Moles, that a short time before they die, they see a little, but never before. So the blind Pope, and his crea­tures: and the Kings of the earth, as blind as he, a little be­fore the finall extirpation of their State, something they will see, as of God fighting from Heaven against them, though they repent not to give him glory.

3. At this time, great changes and revolutions will be, in respect both of persons and things: For howsoeve I am assu­red, that every change amongst us shall be for good unto the Nation, as this present Government, and what followes, a great deale better then the former; yet I question, whether the Lord will throughly purge his floore, in sweeping out all cor­rupt and selfish men, untill that time: But some wil stil creep in unawares, not serving the Lord Jesus Christ, but their own bellie. Neverthelesse this I would have the Reader observe, that about the yeare 1655. Psal. 149.8.7. the righteous alone shall flourish, and be exalted. A two-edged sword is in their hand, to execute vengeance upon the Heathen, and punishment upon the people: to bind their Kings with chaines, and their Nobles with fetters of iron. To execute upon them the judgement written. And this Supream Power shall abide with them four or five yeares without in­terruption, untill they have broken in pieces the fourth Mo­narch.

4. Another terrible and fearfull change, in likelihood will fall out in the year 1655. or the year after, that is the There are some Prophesies which mention the burn­ing of Rome in the yeare 6000. from the Creation. sack­ing and burning of the Citie of Rome. After which it shall ne­ver [Page 31]be inhabited, neither shall it be dwelt in from generation to ge­neration; but wilde Beasts of the Desart shall lie there, and their hou­ses shall be full of dolefull Creatures. And Owles shall dwell there, and Satyrs shall dance there. Isa. 13.2.21, 22. And the wild beasts of the Islands shall cry in their desolate houses, and Dragons in their pleasant palaces, and her time is neer come, and her dayes shall not be prolonged. And this instrumentally shall be done by the Saints of the most high, whose hearts and hands the Lord will raise up for that work. It is possible that the Pope, Cardinals, Arch-bishops, Bishops, &c. may escape, as being reserved to perish after­ward with the worshippers of the Beast; Num. 31.8. as Balaam perished a­mongst the Midianites.

5. The last is the rising of the Jewes, of which I have spo­ken, and shall make no repetition.

Having opened some Prophesies, and applyed them, accord­ing to the grace received, I come now to the other particular, which is to shew the time in which wee are, and our present work: And this is a special Voyce from the Temple unto the high­er Powers.

In the generall I have expressed my opinion already: Christ hath his right foot on the Sea, and his left foot on the Earth. So then to follow the Lamb, it is to break in pieces those two Powers, Kingly, and Antichristian. Who is on my side (saith the Lord) Who? Throw her downe. Come against her from the utmost border, Ier. 50.26. o­pen her store-houses, cast her up as heapes, and destroy her utterly, let nothing of her be left. There is now a price put into your hands, a faire opportunity, and a door opened before you. He that letted is taken out of the way. If a Marriner should be asked in winter why he is at home, and not at Sea; to speake of the unseasonablenesse of the time, might be a reason suffici­ent: but if the Winter be past, and the season good, here he hath not the like excuse to make for himselfe. When Kingly power stood, and the Lords Spirituall and Temporall, which was worse, and the last Parliament little better; that some in Authority did little good, much might be said for their ex­cuse: But now seeing all these things are removed, what will our next Governours have to say for themselves, if they doe not appear and act earnestly for just and righteous things. If [Page 32]a man did certainly know the day of his death: what appetite or desire could he have to meat, an hour before he was to dye? It may be those things which I here write, some will not re­ceive: but howsoever I shall discharge mine owne conscience: and therefore this I do declare with confidence to the world, that corrupt men, and selfe-seekers, their trade is coming down, and two years shall not be expired (mark it) but they shall vomit up what they have gotten by injustice, fals­hood, bribery, &c. and God shall cast it out of their bellie.

But more particularly to the present worke: Such as will act well hereafter, and serve their generation, they must in most things do otherwise, and contrary to what others have done before them. I shall only instance some particulars briefly.

1. They must be active, and quickly dispatch the business which they take in hand; and not to tell people as others u­sually did, of the Thankes of the House, and that it was under Debate, referred to a Committee, &c. and here was all. But let Petitioners be speedily relieved in their just applications. I have seen at the foot of great houses, Images set out in such a posture, as if the building lay on their backs: Such pictures we had, as made shew to have the Church and Common­wealth on their shoulders, whereas in truth (for most of them) neither the one, nor the other had any reall help or supportance from them.

2. They must not seek nor desire to grow rich and great in the world, by being in Authority, but advance the Publique Interest, and not their owne. A thing formerly not practised by many, but left the care of publick concernment to enrich themselves.

Hence it is, that many of them, who before the Parliament began, were not worth two or three hundred pounds a year, have now made it up, some to a thousand, some to fifteen hun­dred, some to two thousand pounds a year, and more. These must be served, as Esop did his fellow-servant, he gave him warm water to drink, by which means he vomited up the stol­len figges.

3. It is a work now proper to the higher Powers, to be care­full what men they appoint, as Justices and Magistrates in the [Page 33]Common-wealth; hitherto in Towne and Countrey such have been in many places, as have most grosly abused the peo­ple, exercised even an arbritary power where they liv'd, and done what they list; as knowing if their insolencies and ex­orbitances should be complained of, they had a Of this thing, wee had a me­morable example in Hull, where one Master Shaw, a notable Turn-coate, and Time-server as lives, hath committed such scandalous actions as seldome are heard of, yet no Justice could passe against him, by reason of the corrupt Mayor. The things are so foule against them both, as honest men wonder they should be suffered: But so long as the last Parliament stood, Mr. Shaw was supported in all the mischiefe he plotted, either against the Towne, or honest men. The last Speaker, Baron Thorp, and Sir Henry Vane, know who I meane, and who did helpe Shaw, to make three or foure unworthy Aldermen at a clap, all Brothers, and to have what Mayor and Sheriffs, Shaw would, to carry on his Designe, which was to disquiet the peace of the place, and affront the honest party. I heare hee studieth to get favour amongst those who are now in place: But that no honest man may be decei­ved by him, this I testifie publiquely, and of knowledge, he is a most corrupt man, and hitherto countenanced by men, as corrupt and rotten as himselfe. friend in the House, would bear them out in spight of all accusers.

Hence a man every where, might have seen that in Solomon fulfilled: When the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.

4. How many years hath it been under Debate in the House concerning the propagation of the Gospell. Now I desire every one that fears God, to observe, what progresse they have made herein. This I affirme to be true, they have left standing in the Nation, a Clergy, or generation of Priests, more scandalous, prophane, wicked, insufficient, &c. then was in the Bishops time, and before they began to sit: Notwithstanding they would send their Acts, to these wretches, that they should pray and give Thanks for them. Whereas Hezekiah sent to Isaiah the Prophet, to lift vp his prayer for the remnant.

That these unworthy men, are to be removed from their unsanctified places and standing, the word of God is clear for it; but whether he will so far honour our next Governours, in putting them upon so glorious a worke, a little time will shew.

5. Be sure that ye be real, and faithfull to such men, whom you know, to be reall and faithful to that Cause, and Worke you are upon. Of late, Turn coats, Time-servers, Apostates, and such like, have been most favoured, soonest heard, and pre­fer'd: [Page 34]The which was one speciall cause of their ruine, and will destroy others if they do the like. As fire taken off from the hearth, and put to the Thatch, will burn down the house; Even so, if men in place, with-draw their affection from honest and good men, to act for unworthy ones, they cannot stand. Let them associate themselves, and they shall be broken, take counsell together, and it shall come to nought.

6. Psal. 4.3. Ps. 101.6. As the Lord will set apart him that is godly: And David saith mine eyes shall be upon the faithfull of the land: So in choosing men to publique employment, carnall relations must be laid aside, and men fearing God pitch't upon. It would be worth the while to consider, how many are in place, who hate to be reform'd, count it their grace that they are gracelesse: yea, despight the spirit of grace in Saints. If a man should sow Tares in his Field, or plant thornes and thistles in his Gar­den, would it be a wonder afterward, to see fruit according to the kind he hath sown and planted? Those that do set and plant in the Common-wealth, crafty men, covetous and de­ceitfull fellows, I meane as to have places of great trust, and concernment, if they deceive the State; no marvail, Who will expect grapes of thornes, or figs of thistles?

7. There is another abuse which honest men desire speedily to have reform'd, namely a multitude of unnecessary and use­lesse Officers, publiquely employed in civill affairs, whereby the Revenues of the Common-wealth are extreamly wasted: which men, if removed, not onely many thousand pounds a year would be saved, but the worke speedier, and much bet­ter done. Besides, it is well known, that some of the late Parliament, have devised new Offices where there was none before, Note. and whereof there is no use in the world, purposely to set in some of their own kindred for sallarie.

8. Whereas many have gotten great estates, by falshood, deceit, unfaithfulnesse, done many unjust actions, and doe fraudulently detain much of the publique treasure in their hands, and some are ready to manifest and prove so much. It is desired, not only that some men may be appointed, to heare and receive the Informations, and Charges, which shall be brought forth against such Delinquents: but speciall care [Page 35]be taken about the choise of them, as that they be able men, Exod. 18.21. such as feare God, men of truth, hating covetousnesse.

As those last men in power were for the most part men most corrupt, so ordinarily they set none in places under them, but men corrupt and rotten as themselves: And there­fore no marvail though some much desired to have their olde Masters in again, for they knew, they were NONE SUCH to serve their turne. The glasse-window lets in light, but keeps out winde and raine: I hope to see such in place, as will heare and receive the truth, the whole truth, and no­thing but the truth, and keep back partiality, respect of per­sons, relations, private Interests.

9. For the Regulating of the Laws, and other corruptions a­mongst us, here it is expected, that things be now done spee­dily and effectually. The turning of the Law into English, no way eased or lessened the grievances of the people: Cursed is he that doth the worke of the Lord negligently. Remember the TWO PLAGUES of this Nation, PRIESTS and LAWYERS. Because thou hast let goe out of thy hand, 1 Kin. 20.42. a man whom I appointed to utter destruction, therefore thy life shall go for his life, and thy people for his people.

10. Take heed of making Parties, and running into fa­ctions, as the former ever did, to carry on, particular and pri­vate designes.

The worke before you is publique, and generall, and therefore be not divided in Schismes and Factions, but unanimously accord together in the present worke of the Lord. In raysing up a materiall house, when the work­men sweetly agree together, the building goes forward apace: so here. How farre the Lord will carry on his work instrumentally by such as shall be next in power, as to con­sider of these, and other things I know not, neither what the Lord intends to doe by them, concerning the breaking in pieces the fourth Monarch, and Antichristian Kingdome: But this I know, if these come not up to the work, others shortly will: For it shall not be left undone beyond the yeare 1655. A people [Page 36]then shall be created, to fulfill the will of God (and he will put it into their hearts) in order to the Prophesies of the la­ter time: Hab. 23. For the vision is yet for an appointed time: but in the end it shall speake, and not lie.