THere are three things that be of absolute necessity for a Chri­stian to doe at all times, but more especially in these divi­ding times: I say, of absolute necessity, if not in point of being, yet in point of well-being as to Christians.

• First, To put on the Armour of Christ.
• Secondly, To abide in the Doctrine of Christ.
• Thirdly, To live in the will of God.

First, Put on the whole armour of Christ. Before come particularly to speak of this point, I shall endeavour to lay before you the ne­cessity that we have to arm our selves with this Armour at this time. For now Satan in more then an ordinary measure hath transformed himself into an Angel of light, and comes to us by his ministers in sheeps­tloathing, though inwardly we find him to [Page 2] be a ravening wolf. He is subtle, and knows that those former ordinary snares, gins, and baits will not take with many men: where­fore now, though he can deceive but few with the history, yet he endeavours to de­ceive many with the mysterie of iniquity. You will and may easily see him with those that call themselves our Joshua's, in the Pulpit, not only at their elbow, but some­times in their Explications, and most fre­quently in their Applications: Nay, there is scarce one Ordinance of the Gospel, but he will cloath himself withall. If he cannot keep people from the practice or use of Or­dinances, he will as much as in him lies cause them to rest upon Ordinances: in a word, he will vail himself under any form or forms, under any order, or ordinance Again, he hath his gins, pits and snares for all sorts of men, in all administrations The Parliament is not free, but they doe o [...] may see Sathan among them, and sometimes in them, improving all opportunities [...] deceive them: Our Armies both in Englan [...] Ireland and Scotland call one upon another to stand upon their guard, to make ready present, and to give fire not only upon their bodily enemies, but upon their spiritua [...] enemies. Methinks I hear many of the Soul­diers [Page 3] speaking one to the other in the lan­guage of Paul, 1 Cor. 16. 13.

First, Watch what comes in.

Secondly, Watch what goes out.

1. Watch what comes in: You shall find thoughts arising one after another in your hearts; call them all to [...]n account, saying, Who art thou? for if thou art for Christ, give me the word, thou shalt freely passe; if thou art not for Christ, and hast not his word, Stand, [...]f thou comest up one step further, I'le fire at thee.

2. Watch what goes out: Take heed to thy words, let them be such as may ad­minister grace to the hearers; remember what S. James saith, Jam. 3. 5. 6. The tongue [...]s a little member, and boasteth great things; be­ [...]old how great a matter a little fire kindleth! and [...]he Tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity, it defileth [...]he whole body, & setteth on fire the whole course [...]f nature, &c. Wherefore watch what goes [...]ut; remember, the Lord thy God hath [...]et a double pale to rule that little mem­ [...]er.

Again, as he tempts Parliament and Army, [...]o he tempts Magistrates and Ministry; high [...]nd low, rich and poor, old and young; [...]e hath his temptations suitable to all con­ [...]itions: He will tempt you when you ar [...] [Page 4] praying, hearing, reading, meditating, eat­ing, drinking, waking and sleeping; he im­proves all opportunities, he takes all ad­vantages, for he lies in wait to deceive, and winnow you, as Christ told Peter; He is a great traveller, he roves up and down the earth, as he told the Lord in the book of Job; He is a great Philosopher, he is ac­quainted with all natures; he hath his Lo­gick and his Rhetorick as perfect as the Heathen Philosophers, or the National Mi­nisters, nay he outstrips them, for he often deceives them: You know he was too sub­tle for the first Adam, he engaged him and overcame him, and gave Adam and all us in him the fall: Again, he imployes all his policie, improves all his subtilty, to foile the second Adam as he did the first, Mat. 3. 4, 5, 6, 7, &c.

1. The Devil suits his temptation to our Lord Christs present condition: Christ had been fasting forty dayes, why, saith the De­vil, Command that these stones be made bread The Lord answers him from Scripture, and tels him, Deut. 8. 3. it is written, Man shall [...] live by bread alone, but by every word that p [...] ­ceedeth out of the mouth of God. The Devil see­ing there is no dealing with Christ, unle [...] [Page 5] he could bring Scripture, he hastens and prepares his next temptation, as you may see Mat. 4. 5, 6. he intreats Christ to cast him­self down from the pinacle of the Temple, and endeavours to ground his temptation upon Scripture, and cites Psal. 91. 11. For he shall give his Angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. The Devil cites this Psalm and this verse to Christ: but mark his po­licie, he leaves out somewhat most consider­able in that 11. verse, and addes somewhat that was not in that verse, as you may see, if you compare Mat. 4. 6. with Psal. 91. 11. Again, this subtile Serpent will bring pride into our hearts under the name of decencie and neatnesse, and covetousnesse under the name of good husbandry; nay he wil clothe drunkennesse with the garment of good­fellowship, and gluttony with the robe of hospitality, nay he will hide frowardnesse under the name of zeale; he will promise you peace, and bring you into trouble; he [...]ll promise you honour, and bring you into dishonour both with God and man; he will promise us liberty, and bring us in­to bondage; In a word, (to adde no more) he will promise us life, as he did our first parents, and bring us to death, The wage [...] of sinne is death.

[Page 6] 2. O Christians, consider, that we have a deceitful heart within us, a map of misery which is more destructive to us then all the wiles of Sathan; it is desperately wicked, saith Jeremy in his 17. chap. v. 9. The heart is de­ceitfull above all things, and desperately wick [...] who can know it? There is a magazine of fil­thinesse within us, in thine and mine heart; we have seen much of it, and there is a thou­sand times more then we have seen, Who can know it? There is nothing called sin in the Word of God, but thou and I may find in more or lesse, taking up its lodging in our hearts; it doth mischief us more then Satan for he can but tempt, but our deceitful hearts do yield; it will make us believe that it is plodding for our good, when it is con­triving our ruine; it will cheat us in our obediences to God, it will tell us we have done well when we have done ill; in a word, the Heart is the sole troubler of the times, see Eccles. 9. 3. The hearts of the sonn [...] of men are full of madnesse, for evil and madne [...] are in their hearts. Now there are three thing by which a mad man may be known.

• 1. Mischievousnesse to himselfe and o­thers.
• 2. Unsensiblenesse, they feele not th [...] smart.
• [Page 7] 3. Wilfulnesse; there is no perswading of them.

First now, O Christian, deal impartially; dost not thou find that thou hast mischiefed thy self and others many a time? and yet thou wouldst be ready to spet in the face of him that should say thou art mad.

Again in the next place, hast not thou been insensible at the present what misery thou hast brought upon thy self? And then

Thirdly, for wilfulnesse: There are cha­racters of wilfulness to be seen in those that do look on themselves as the chiefest Saints, and yet they would take it as a rash expressi­on, if one tell them that there is madnesse in their hearts.

3. Consider, O Christians, there is not only a Devil without thee, and a deceitful heart within thee, but also there be all thy carnal Acquaintance before thee, which do claim an interest in thee, wherefore they will not forsake thee, but lie perswading of thee to run with them to the same excess of riot; and if thou begin to refuse to comply with them, they will say, You begin too soon to be precise: What, a young Saint! lose the best of your time, the flower of your age! what, wither your body with griefe for a few petty sins! what, spoil your selfe with [Page 8] studying and poring upon books! what run into corners to weep and pray, when thou mightest be singing and dancing, eat­ing & drinking with the rest of thy friends what, must you be so precise? shall no body be saved but you, and a few such as you b [...] what is become of our forefathers, think you, which made no such ado? I hope you will not say but they be saved, &c.

Wilt thou see now, O man, what is the cause that the sonnes and daughters of men are multiplying their iniquities, committing sinne [...] with greedinesse: why, herein lies the cause; there is a devil without thee, and a deceitful heart within thee, and there be all thy car­nal acquaintance before thee, all pretend­ing love unto thee, and they all bending to­gether and improving all opportunities to cheat, delude, and deceive thee. Hence it commeth to passe that the whole world lieth in wickednesse: hence it is, that when thou comest into the City, thou shalt see it swim [...] with pride before thee, and abound with covetousnesse behind thee: on thy right hand, as thou go [...]st along the streets, thou shalt hear them swearing, and on thy left hand in their shops lying; goe out of the streets into any by-place, thou shalt heard some cursing, and others backbiting, and all [Page 9] almost (unlesse here and there one) in the City, bond their forces together against the Lord Christs Kingly power.

Me thinks I see now and then a sincere­hearted Country-Christian come walking along the streets of the City; and when he sees these abominations before him, behind him, on his right hand, and on his left, he begi [...] to say, Lord, what is the cause of this great wic [...]dnesse in the City? And if he receive no answer from the Lord, he en­quires for the Lords people, and through Gods goodnesse he finds here and there a Christian following of Christ, and a pretty considerable party enquiring after Christ; well, he comes to one and asketh him, why doth sin so abound in this City? it is true, sin reigns much in the Country, but it ex­ceeds in the City. Why (saith the Citizen to him) we have more Temptations living in the City, then you in the Country. Well but the Country-man is not fully satisfied, he goes to another, and demands a reason, Why doth sin reign in this City? have you not godly Magistrates, and godly Ministers, and other godly Officers in your City? Me thinks I hear the Citizen answering him and saying, Why through the Lords good­nesse it is much better with us in that respect then it hath been here to fore.

[Page 10] Q. What then is the cause of the abound­ing of sin?

A. Sir, I think one or both of these fol­lowing reasons may be given for it; either first we have sleighted the means of gra [...] more then others, or else (as I have said be­fore) we are under greater temptations in the City, then you in the Country.

But shall we see a little farther, and en­quire into the cause why both City and Country, not only in this Nation, but all the World-over is so overspread with all maner of abominations both in Principles and Practice; which is the reason so many thousands that would be looked upon as Saints and servants of Christ, are fallen off, one to this error, and another to that facti­on. Some deny Ordinances, others deny the Scriptures, and some deny both: Some will acknowledge God, but deny the Son; others acknowledge both the Father and the Son, but despise the Spirit; others will acknow­ledge Father, Son and Spirit, in word and in tongue, but deny all in their practice And here I am sure is the state of the greatest part of the English Nation, but the Lord (blessed be his name) is beginning to destroy this darknesse by his own light. But is not this the cause why the whole world lieth in [Page 11] wickednesse, as John saith? There is a Devil tempting, and a deceitful heart yielding, and carnal friends perswading; the one comes and takes thee by one arm, the other by the other arm, the third ties as it were a string about thy middle, and all three say­ing, Come along with us.

Thus much of the cause of our divisions, backslidings, deadnesse, dulnesse, formality and infidelity. Now I shall in the next place lay before you the Cure, and therein speak of two things.

• The first is concerning the being,
• The second is concerning the well-being of a Christian.

First then, if thou wouldest be preserved in these perilous times, Put on the armour of Christ, and abide in the doctrine of Christ.

Secondly, for thy well-being; learn this lesson, There is no power but of God, who will turn all these things to his glory and thy good: Or, Abide in the will of God.

First of the first, Put on the whole armour of Christ, and abide in the doctrine of Christ. The one is laid down by way of command in Ephes. 6. 11. the other by way of trial and prevention, in the 2. Epist. of John, v. 9. To each of these Scriptures, as far as I have light witnessed with experience, I shall hold forth briefly and plainly.

[Page 12] Ephes. 6. 11. Put on the whole armour of God that you may be able to stand against the wiles [...] the Devil. The armour here spoken unto [...] not a temporal, but a spiritual armour and what this spiritual armour is, you ha [...] it laid down distinctly in this Epistle o [...] Paul to the Ephesians, viz.

1. To gird them with the girdle of truth▪ Eph. 6. 14.

2. To put on the breast-plate of righteousnesse, ver. 14.

3. To be shod with the shooes of the Gospel o [...] peace, v. 15.

4 To take the shield of faith, which is a most victorious weapon, v. 16.

5. To put on the helmet of salvation, v. 17.

6. To take into thy hand of faith the sword of the Spirit, v. 17.

Beloved, I dare boldly say, that man o [...] woman that puts on this armour, ma [...] march forth into the field, and challenge al [...] the Devils in hell, and all the wicked men in [...] the world, and rout them all. What mad [...] David go out against Goliah? Why, he saw himself armed, not with Sauls armour, but with this Spiritual armour. What was that that made him so confident, Ps. 27. 3. Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not feare, though warre should rise against me [...] [Page 13] [...]n this will I be confident. What made him [...]reak forth in such words, Psal. 3. 6. I will [...]ot (said he) be afraid of ten thousand of people [...]hat have set themselves against me round about. [...]ov. 28. 1. The wicked flees when no man pur­ [...]eth, but the righteous is as bold as a lyon.

Q. Why be the righteous so bold as a Lion?

A. They be armed with the armour of God.

Q. What is meant or understood by the girdle of truth?

A. To be rightly principled, & through­ [...]y doctrinated in the doctrine of Christ. Again,

Q. What is meant by the breast-plate of righteousnesse?

A. A good conscience, or innocencie of life &c. and so for the shield of faith, what is it but the righteousnesse to Christ, able like a brazen shield to protect and cover us from the darts of the world, the flesh and the de­vil? Nay I suppose it to be not only a de­sensive, but an offensive weapon, I Joh. 5. 4. This is the victory that overcommeth the world, even our faith. Heb. 11. 33, 34. Who through faith subdued Kingdoms, wrought righteousnesse▪ obtained promises, stopped the mouths of Lions, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies [Page 14] of the Aliens, &c. If we should see an Army of men marching into the field, where their Enemies had placed themselves in Battalia [...] I say, if we should see them march toward their enemy unarmed, why, we would pre­sently conclude that these men will be put to the worst, they will receive the rout, they will be either taken, or else return hacked and hewed and terribly wounded.

What is the cause that we be so easily and so often routed by Sathan? why, he comes and finds us unarmed; hence it is that we have so many cuts and sores in our inward man, we do not consider the strength and subtilty of our enemies; and hence it is that we do not put on the whole armour of God. Nay, how many thousands of men and wo­men be there, nay of those that would be ac­counted pious Christians, that are so far from puting on the whole armour of God, that they ne're put on a peece of it; Nay, it is a rare thing to find a Professor that can tell one what this armour is, and the right place of every peece: hence it is that some do put the peece behind, that should be be­fore, and that upon the foot which should be on the head; and so though it be the ar­mour of Christ, you cannot fight in it, it will be to thee as Sauls armour was to [Page 15] David, unfit for service. Surely Christians, [...]f I see any thing of God, this (I do know) [...]s one of the greatest evils that now reigns [...]mongst Professors, their disordering what God hath ordered. Take a thing that is [...]ood, it is good but in its place; put it a [...]ittle above, or something beneath its place, [...]he thing that is good in it self becomes evil [...]o you, &c.

Again, let us examine what necessity there [...]s for the sonnes of Sion thus to arm them­ [...]elves. Oh consider, consider these ensuing [...]criptures. Eph. 6. 11, 12. Put on the whole [...]rmour of God, (there is the precept:) For we [...]restle not against flesh and blood, but against [...]rincipalities and powers, against the rulers of [...]arknesse, against spiritual wickednesse in high [...]laces, (there is the reason.) Take heed that no [...]an deceive you, saith our Lord Christ, Mat. [...]4. 4. For we be living in those dayes spoken [...]0, v. 24. There shall arise false Christs and false Prophets, shewing great signes and wonders. These are the dayes spoken to, 1 Tim. 4. 1. Now the Spirit speaketh expressely, that in the [...]ater dayes some shall depart from the faith, giving [...]eed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils, &c.

Oh what troops of men and women is Sathan driving before him! Look up a [Page 16] little, intreat the Lord to take the vail off thy spiritual eye, and thou shalt see a great rode-way exceeding broad, and very popu­lous, and drove after drove passing on, not softly, but swiftly, they all ride post. Mark diligently, and thou shalt see Sathan that great Prince af the aire, bravely mounted, and richly clothed, as their Generall marching before them, and his Angels bringing up the rear: Take a view of the Droves as they passe by thee, and thou shalt see some of all ranks of men amongst them. Me thinks I hear thee saying, look, look, methinks I see a Parliament-man there, me thinks I see here and there one of the Army, and abundance of the Clergie there; but they march more honourably then the rest, for Satan their Prince hath made them File-leaders. Look, look, what an innumerable company of men and women, old and young, high and low, rich and poor, are posting away to hel [...] Now I see the words of Christ be true, Mat. 7. 13. For wide is the gate, and broad is the way that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat. Now I see what is the meaning of that text, Mat. 7. 22. Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name, and in thy name have cast out devils, and in thy name have done many wonderfull works! Depart from me [Page 17] [...]aith Christ, I never knew you. How! not know us, and we have taught in thy streets, and eat and drank in thy presence! Depart, saith Christ to them. How! depart! Dost thou speak to us that have done so many won­derful things in thy name? Lord, let the word depart be given to the Ign rant, and not to us that are Scholars! Why, saith Christ, many of those whom you call Igno­rant, are the greatest Scholars in my school, 1 Cor. 1. 26, 27, 28. Not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble are [...]alled; but God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise, and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound [...]he mighty, and base things of the world and things which are despised hath God chosen, yea and [...]hings which are not, to bring to nought things that [...]re, that no flesh should glory in his presence. Oh how doth flesh glory in his presence! if a man can speak scholastically, though [...]he be not authentique, how is he admired of men! if he can speak eloquently, and lay down things methodically, (which be but the gifts of nature) how doth this flesh glo­ry in his presence! Methinks I hear a voice from heaven saying, Come down thou proud self-seeking Flesh! Thou hast set thy self in my Spirits place, and hast caused the people to admire [Page 18] thee, saying of thee as once it was said of Herod It is the v [...]ice of God, and not of man. I will smit [...] thee, and the wormes shall destroy thee, saith the Lord. In a word, we may clearly see that Sathan hath his pits, gins and snares for al [...] degrees and degrees and ranks of men, under all admi­nistrations, form or forms: He endeavours to cheat us in all things, at all times, and in [...] all places. But me thinks I see him lay the closest siege, and raise the strongest batteries, and plant his greatest peeces against these two things:

• FIrst, against the Doctrine of Christ.
• Secondly, against the Discipline of Christ

1. Against the Doctrine of Christ, which tells thou art freely justified by grace, Rom. 3. 24. in comes Antichrist, and tels thee it i [...] partly by grace, and partly by works: And so though thou dost not seek to be justified by the Law, yet it is as it were by the works [...] the Law, Rom. 9. 3. 2. Wherefore? because the sought it not by faith, but as it were by the work [...] of the law, for they stumbled at that stumbling stone Consider these ensuing Scriptures, which speak of justification by grace; and if thi [...] point were well understood, men woul [...] not so easily be led away with the error of th [...] wi [...]ked. Ephes. 2. 5. By grace are you saved, a [...] freely quickned when you were dead in your sin [...] [Page 19] and v. 8. For by grace are you saved through faith, and that not of your selves, it is the gift of God. Rom. 11. 6. And if it be by grace, then it is no more of works, &c. And in Rom. 3. 24. Being justified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in Christ. In a word: Creation, Ele­ction, Redemption, Justification, and San­ctification are all of Free-grace, to which both Old and New Testament speaks abun­dantly: And for want of understanding this point, the Papists erre in seeking salva­tion by works; For want of understanding this point, the Arminians erre, saying, Ele­ction and Salvation in effect depend upon Qualification; yea, for want of the true knowledge of this point, doth that error of Free-will and Generall Redemption so abound at this day: In a word, for want of the knowledge of this point, do so many at this time in this Common-wealth make a hotch-potch in mingling and interweaving Law and Gospel, in joyning their obedience with the obedience of Christ, to patch up a salvation. 2. Here is another cheat of Satan, wherein he endeavours to cheat thee and me in the Doctrine of Christ. The doctrine of Christ tels thee, that Christ came to re­concile thee to God, 2 Cor. 5. 23. When this point is held forth a little, in creeps [Page 20] Antichrist, and declares that Christ came also to reconcile God to thee; and so en­deavours to make the immutable God mu­table, or the unchangeable God changeable. You might trace him in every branch of the Doctrine of Christ, and find him either endea­vouring to make thee to deny it, or if he cannot prevail in that, then he endeavours to make thee adde something to it, or take something from it. Wherefore put on the whole armour of God, stand upon thy guard and watch: Belieue not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they be of God.

2. Again, as first he endeavours to cheat us in the doctrine of Christ, so secondly he endeavours to cheat us in the discipline of Christ. Now Discipline, though it be not of absolute necessity as to the being of a Church of Christ, yet it is absolutely ne­cessary to the well-being of a Church: for as a City without walls, a Sea without banks, a Vineyard without hedges, so is a Church without discipline: For a Church without government is as a ship without a Pilot, or a Commonwealth without a Ma­gistrate, or a World without a Sun. Hence it is that you shall find the Apostles so fre­quently exhorting, perswading, and intreat­ing the Church of Jesus Christ to walk by [Page 21] rule, to observe order: The Pastor is com­manded to walk as a Pastor and Teacher, that both by his doctrine and conversation he might win others to Christ: the Teach­ers, Elders, Deacons have all their rules laid before them, how they ought to build up one another in their most holy faith, and to watch over the flock, &c. And so every mem­ber in the Church in his place is to observe order, in endeavouring to be usefull to the whole body. Nay hence it is, that one quar­ter part of the New Testament is spent a­bout treating of the several gifts of the Spirit to several men, to several ends, viz. He gave some Apostles, and some Prophets, and some Evan­gelists, some Pastors, and some Teachers, for the perfecting of the Saints, for the work of the mi­nistry, &c.

Now that Ordinances were the appoint­ments of Christ, I suppose that all rational men will easily grant; And that they be now in being, and ought to be in use, will be easily proved.

The first is granted by all hands, viz. That there were Ordinances, appointments and institutions given forth by Christ unto the Churches in the Apostles dayes, accom­panied with Gods presence, and confirmed [...]y miracles, and extraordinary gifts of the [Page 22] Spirit. But the question is, whether these are still to continue? are they now in being as to us? Prove that. For answer hereunto consider these things.

1 ORdinances are not of humane, but of divine institution, 1 Cor. 1 [...]. 28.

2. Consider, the Saints both in Old and New Testament, under the greatest discove­ries, living in the greatest enjoyments, even these waited upon God in the use of Ordi­nances; and Paul saith, Phil. 3. 17. Ye ought to walk so as you have us for an example: and in another place he saith, Be ye followers of me as I am of Christ, &c.

3. We have not only commands of God and the examples of the Apostles, but w [...] have experience that God hath done u [...] good by them: it is our Fathers walks, i [...] which our soules do often meet with ou [...] Beloved.

4. Consider, the Lord of glory doth blame those that neglect making use of Or­dinances. Mal. 3. 7. Ye have gone away fro [...] mine ordinances, and have not kept them. Is no [...] this the state of this Nation? Luk. 19. 27 Those mine enemies that would not that I should reign over them, bring them before me. Com­pare this 27 verse with the 13. and 14. an [...] you shal see that there were a people who [...] [Page 23] Christ threatned to punish for not submit­ [...]ing to his appointments, nor improving their talents. Not to wait upon God in the use of Ordinances, is to be carelesse to [...]hearken to his voice; and so the Lord may justly complain of thee and me, as once he did, Psal. 81. 11. But my people would not heark­ [...]en to my voice, &c.

5. Consider, while we are in a body we be in a form, and therefore cannot altoge­ther live without forms, unlesse we will be monst [...]rs, and neglect our own mercies. God hath given us an external body, as well as an internal soul, and will be waited up­on, worshipped and glorified by both, 1 Cor. 6. 20. Glorifie God in your bodies and in your souls, which are the Lords.

6. Consider, that these appointments, institutions and ordinances, when they were appointed and instituted, were to con­tinue in the Church till the Saints were perfected. Ephes. 4. 11, 12, 13. And he gave some Apostles, and some Prophets, and some Evan­gelists, and some Pastors and Teachers, for the perfecting of the Saints, for the work of the mini­stery, for the edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come into the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man unto the measure of the stature of the fulnesse of [Page 24] Christ. In which there be four things con­siderable: I will but name them.

1. Here is the giver, and that is the Lord Christ, the Fountain in whom all the fulnesse of the Godhead dwels bodily, from whom we receiv [...] grace for grace.

2. Here is the gift, and that is his Spirit in its measures, according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

3. Here is the end why God gave such gifts, v. 12. For the perfecting of the Saints, for the work of the ministery, &c.

4. Here is the time, how long these insti­tutions, offices and ordinances are to con­tinue, and that is in v. 13. Till we all come i [...] the unity of the faith into the knowledge of the Son of God unto a perfect man, unto the measure [...] of the stature of the fulnesse of Christ.

Now if there be any Church of Christ o [...] Congregation o [...] Saints that be compleatly come up to this state spoken unto in that verse, why then all that I would say to them is, Cast not a stumbling block in thy brothers way, speak not so disdainfully of those paths which thou [...] thy self hast gone through; must not thy brother that is weak eat milk, because thou dost eat strong meat? must not he speak as a child, because tho [...] dost speak as a man? must he see by thy eyes, o [...] else wilt thou say he doth not see at all? Tho [...] [Page 25] that dost think thou standest, take heed lest thou dost fall. Think not of thy self above what thou art, Ro. 12. 3. Remember thy sister-Church, Rev. 3. 17. Because thou sayest, I am rich and increased with heavenly enjoyments, graci­ous discoveries, and unspeakable manifesta­tions, and art perfect and compleat, and come to the fulnesse of Christ, and hast need of nothing, neither Ordinance or Admini­stration, helps nor governments. Dost thou think thus of thy selfe? why, so did that Church of Laodiceans, Rev. 3. 17. which was the most barren and unfruitful of all the seven Churches of Asia. Reason thus with thy self: Was that Church so exceedingly deceived? then why not I?

7. Consider, that in the last age of the Church, and in the most glorious times of that age, when both Jewes and Gentiles shall have one Shepheard, and one sheepfold, when knowledge shall cover the earth as the wa­ters the sea, when the Law shall be written in our hearts, and Babylon fallen, and the mountain of the Lords house established upon the top of the mountaines; Even in these most glorious dayes of light and knowledge, freedome and liberty, shall the Saints wait upon God in the use of Ordinances, and call one up­on another so to do, Isa. 2. 2. 3. Mic. 4. 1, 2. [Page 26] Again, if there shall be Ordinances in th [...] most glorious times that are to come, whe [...] there shall be a full pouring out of the Sp [...] ­rit of God upon the children of men; the [...] certainly they are to remain now: And you look upon the last of Isa. Jer 3. Zac. 1 [...] or upon other Scriptures where mentio [...] is made of the most glorious times that an [...] yet to come, ye shall find that there is me [...] ­tion also made of Ordinances in tho [...] times. Let us look into Rev. 11. 15. T [...] seventh Angel sounded, and there were gre [...] voices in Heaven saying, The kingdomes of th [...] world are become the kingdomes of our Lord an [...] of his Christs, and he shall reign for ever and eve [...] Here are plainly the glorious times spoke [...] of that are yet to come. Well, shall there b [...] any Ordinances then? Yes: for, v. 19. An [...] the temple of the Lord was opened in heaven, an [...] there was seen in his [...]emple the Ark of his Test [...] ­ment. What is this but Ordinances? Th [...] Ark, the visible signe of the presence of Go [...] in way of Ordinances, and the Temple o­pened, though it was shut before.

8. Consider, if the ministration of th [...] Gospel be still to continue, then surel [...] the Ordinances of Christ are still to abid [...] 2 Cor. 3. 11. For if that which is done away w [...] glorious, much more that which remains is gloriou [...] [Page 27] The Apostle here makes this difference be­ [...] [...]he ministration of the Gospel, and [...] [...]he Law; that the one is to be done [...]d the other to remain. Now if the [...] were not to continue, what [...]rence would there be as concerning [...]his matter, between the ministration of Moses, and the ministration of the Gospel? [...]ut the Apo [...] here plainly speaks that [...]his is the [...]erence; The ministration of [...]he one is to be done away, the ministration [...]f the other doth still continue. Therefore [...]he Ordinances of the Gospel doe still re­ [...]naine.

9. Consider, if that the word of the new [...]estament, as commanding to believe, and [...]romising to give the Spirit; I say, if this Word do continue, then the Ordinances of Christ are still to continue; if the Ordi­nances of Christ be not still to continue, [...]hen the Word of the New Testament, as [...]he commandment of believing, and the promise of giving the Spirit, doe not con­tinue: There is the same reason for the one [...]s for the other. You say you are bound to believe: (How prove you that?) Why, Christ hath commanded me, say you. But [...] answer you with your own answer, You [...]ue to wait upon God in the use of Ordi­nances. [Page 28] (How prove you that?) I answ [...] Christ hath commanded you. If Sathan [...] get us to lay down but one Ordinance [...] the Gospel, he will never leave tugging an pulling till he hath brought us out of lo [...] with all Ordinances; and then he w [...] teach us to deny the Scriptures, and then [...] deny God, and last of all we shall be denie [...] of God, and so fitted for destruction.

The Commonwealth of England doth [...] bound of two sorts of men and women and both in extremes:

The first will have no Ordinances at al [...]

The second doe rest upon Ordinance [...] or idolize them.

The first will have no Ordinances at al [...] call the Ordinances of Christ dead form beggerly—and those that wait upon God in them, Legalists, Heaven-drivers Formalists, and Duty-mongers: And fo [...] themselves, they are taught of God, we have n [...] need of the teachings of men, we be rich and f [...] and want nothing; not knowing they be poo [...] blind, miserable and naked.

Secondly, there be another party that d [...] rest upon Ordinances, and they be not a few [...] you shall know them by their fruits: D [...] not you hear them crying and pleading i [...] City and Country, Give us Ordinances, or e [...] [Page 29] [...] die! And this they plead for unto and [...]ongst a Congregation of people, which [...] not capable of it, but for one Ordinance, [...]d that is to stand under the droppings of the [...]spel, and the powerful preachings thereof, the [...]eanes appointed by Christ to work faith [...] their soules, Rom. 10. 17. For untill this [...]ord doth come to them in power, they [...] not fitted for Fellowships and Commu­ [...]ons: they must see their union with God, [...]fore they can have true communion with [...]s people. The Ordinances, or at least [...]any of them be Childrens bread, and must [...]t be given to Swine. Those Ordinances [...]at be ordained for Conversion and Re­ [...]neration are to be held forth to all, to the [...]d as many as be ordained to eternal life may [...]lieve. All other Ordinances belong to [...]hildren, and they have right to them as [...]ible members of that body whereof Christ [...]the head. He who was the Son of God, came the Son of man, that we who be the these things were well considered, me­ [...]inks it should abate the practice both of [...]inister and People in City and Country, [...]ho (for many of them) yet being in the [...]d man, and having spent their dayes in the [...]vice of Sathan, yet forsooth they would [Page 30] known by the name of Christians, or least Apostle-imitators; though they cann [...] bu know they want the power, yet th [...] will cry up the form of godlinesse. Now whe [...] the Ministers of our times, or at least so [...] of them, have gathered a parcel of th [...] Rabble-rout together, (I do not stile th [...] so because they be the poorest; no, no, s [...] they be such a people as David speaks [...] they flourish as the green bay-tree, their eyes st [...] out with fatnesse, they go cloathed in the choice array, and be the most honorable men in th [...] Parish: and they want but two thing [...] which are, the knowledge of God, and obed [...] to his will.) When the Minister hath gather [...] a parcel of these together into fellowshi [...] up he springs into the Pulpit to feed [...] Flock: and truly so he doth; for he giv [...] them such food as is both pleasant to th [...] palate, and easie for digestion, for he kno [...] well the state of their bodies: And if [...] chance to see any poore Dove come in [...] mongst these fat Turkies, he will no [...] leave throwing of stones till he hath gall [...] her forth. (Had I not seen this with my [...] I had not written it with my pen.) An [...] when this poor Dove is frighted forth, [...] flies up and down from one Congregati [...] to another, and it may be finds no rest [...] [Page 31] [...]he sole of her foot: then she retires into [...]ome private Assemb [...]y, and there refresheth [...]er self. Well, the publique Teachers heare [...]f a company of Doves gathered together [...] such a place, and their carriage to be such [...]hat it is like to draw away some of their Congregations; they lift up their voices, [...]nd tell their hearers, that these be not Doves, but Wolves, Sabbath-breakers, Blas­ [...]hemers, factious Sectaries, creeping into cor­ [...]ers, and leading silly women captive: Often [...]aying of them as once the enemies of Christ [...]id, Have any of the Rulers believed on him? [...]o, none but this ignorant people that know [...]ot the Law.

Are there Private Meetings, and doth that [...]ffend you? Let me ask you, Are not you [...]he cause of their meeting in private? Have [...]ot you deprived them of their expectati­ [...]ns in publique? They came to be instruct­ [...]d in the Gospel, and you preach the Law: They came to be refreshed, and you sent them way sorrowfull: They came to heare of [...]hrist, and you told them of Moses: They [...]ame to know their freedome, & you brought [...]hem into bondage: They came to be in­ [...]ructed in their Union with their Father, [...]nd you told them of Communion: They [...]ame to be instructed in the Doctrinal part [Page 32] of Divinity, and you told them of the Prac­ctical part of Divinity: they came to hear of Grace, and you told them of Gifts: in [...] word, we and you have looked more upon Gifts then upon Grace, upon Law then upon Gospel, u [...]on the form more then the power of godlinesse. Alas, what is the shadow without the substance? what is the Letter without the Spirit? what is an Or­dinance without the presence of God in it [...] Oh then make use of all Ordinances, bu [...] rest upon none: Look upon them as th [...] path to walk in, but not the pillar to re [...] upon; look upon them as the way, but no [...] the cause of your acceptation with God account not thy self the better when tho [...] hast made use of them, unlesse thou hast m [...] God in them. Labour to be well informe [...] in these four things, and then thou wil [...] establish Ordinances in their right place viz.

• 1. Consider what is the ground of a [...] these Ordinances.
• 2. Consider what is the end of all Go [...] spel Ordinances.
• 3. Consider the time of them, how lo [...] they be to continue. Eph. 4. 13.
• 4. Consider the proper use of them, th [...] so thou and I may not abuse them in [...] use of them.

[Page 33] [...] much concerning idolizing or resting [...]pon Ordinances.

Now then the way to defend and pre­ [...]rve our selves from these or other like ex­ [...]emes, is, to abide in the doctrine of Christ: [...]d without this, let no man boast of his [...]terest in the Father, or of his relation to [...]e Sonne, or of his evidence by the Spirit. [...]t us then a little consider the mind of [...]od in that Scripture written for our lear­ [...]ng, 2. Epist. of John, latter part of vers. 9. [...]hosoever abideth in the doctrine of Christ, hath not the Father and the Son. The whole verse [...]ns thus: Whosoever transgresseth and abi­ [...]h not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God; [...] whosoever abideth in the doctrine of Christ, [...]th both the Father and the Sonne. From the [...]tter part of this verse, let us consider of [...]d enquire into these two things.

• VVHat this Doctrine of Christ here meant, is.
• What it is to abide in this Doctrine.

First, what this Doctrine of Christ here [...]ant, is. Surely if ever it were needful for [...]ristians to enquire into this, now much [...]ore: For in these latter dayes there be [...]ny Doctrines that are presented before [...]u, and all in the name of the Doctrine of [Page 34] Christ, saying, Lo here is Christ! lo here [...] Christ! And if we look upon their habi [...] they be cloathed in sheeps-cloathing; ca [...] your eyes upon their heads, and they ha [...] horns like a Lan [...]b, onely they speak as [...] Dragon: as in Rev. 13. 11. And I beheld a [...] other beast comming up out of the earth, he [...] two horns like a Lamb, and he speaks as a Drag [...] Surely these Lambs horns, and Dragon [...] tongues are not alwayes in Monarchy, bu [...] sometimes in Ministry. Let us then enquir [...] what this Doctrine of Christ is: for the [...] be many Doctrines with which people h [...] taken, that have no relation to Christ.

1. We read of a Doctrine of vanity, Je [...] 10. 8. Their stock is a doctrine of vanity. The [...] be many taken with this doctrine in the day [...]s, but this is not the doctrine of Chri [...]

2. There is the Doctrine of the Scribe and Pharisees, Mat. 15. 9. But in vain do th [...] worship me, teaching for doctrine the comman [...] ­ments of men. Mat. 16. 12. Christ bid the beware of the doctrine of the Pharisees.

3. We read in Scripture of another d [...] ­ctrine, called the doctrine of Balaam. Re [...] 2. 14. Who taught Balack to cast a stumbling bl [...] before the children of Israel, to eat things sa [...] ficed to idols, and to commit fornication.

4. We read in Scripture of another d [...] ­ctrine, [Page 35] called the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, Rev. 2. 15. So hast thou them that hold the do­ctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. And their doctrine was this, To uphold the common use of women, that is, that women might be common; much like to those new upstart wantons of our times.

5. There is another Doctrine, which in­cludes all the former, spoken of 1 Tim. 4. 1. Now the Spirit speaketh expressely, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving [...]heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of Devils. But none of these is the Doctrine of Christ [...]here spoken to.

6. Lastly, we find another Doctrine fre­quently mentioned in Scripture, which if we abide not in, sad is our case, miserable [...]is our condition, 2 Ep. Iohn 9. He that trans­gresseth and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, (mark that man, mark that woman) they have not God. Let them talk of God, and make their boast of God, as it may be they do, they be without God in the world.

These things being well consider d, we cannot but see the necessity we have to be well acquainted with the Doctrine of Christ. Which leads us to the first thing here to be enquired into, What this Doctrine of Christ here spoken unto is.

[Page 36] A It is a doctrine of Grace, and a do­ctrine of Free-grace. I know what be the judgments of many knowing men concern­ing this thing: If you ask them what the doctrine of Christ is, they will tell you it is a doctrine of Faith and Obedience: but this is the effects of the doctrine, rather then the doctrine it self: For the doctrine of Free­grace being preached to a soule, and having gotten entrance to lodg in the inward man, then it works faith and obedience as the ef­fects or fruits of that Spirit of grace. Hence it is that when Christ sent forth his Disci­ples to preach this doctrine of Grace, he commands them saying, Into whatsoever house you enter, say, Peace unto this house. Lo, peace is the first word, which word is full of grace: Christ doth not bid them fire the people out of their nests by preaching the Law, and then heal them with the balm of the Gospel; no, they must first preach peace, for God is in the still voice, that so the love of Christ held forth in the doctrine of Free-grace, Tit. 2. 11, 12. might teach them to deny ungod­linesse and worldly lusts, and constrain them out of a principle of love to live godly and soberly in this present world. Now that the doctrine of Christ is a doctrine of grace, it will appear by these and the like Scriptures [Page 37] which I shall but name. Act. 13. v. 39 & 43 compared together. Act. 20. 24. Rom. 3. 24. Rom. 11. 6. Ephes. 2. 5. & 8 compar'd together. In a word, (as was said before) Creation, Election, Redemption, and Sanctification, [...]it is all of Free-grace.

Now me thinks I see most men in a sense give their assent and consent to the truth of this, that the doctrine of Christ is a doctrine of grace; and they will tell you further, that they do abide in this doctrine. Now then let us examine our selves a little by the effects of this doctrine: for as a tree is known by his fruit, so is this doctrine by its effects.

First then, it is a doctrine of grace en­lightening the soul.

Secondly, it is a doctrine of grace work­ing faith in the soul.

Thirdly, it is a doctrine of grace work­in love in the soul.

Fourthly, it is a doctrine of grace work­ing upon the will and affections to will and affect the things of God.

1. The doctrine of Christ is a doctrine of grace enlightening the soul. Luk. 2. 3 2. A light to lighten the Gentiles. This is spoken of Christ and his doctrine. Luk. 1. 79. To give light to them that sit in darknesse and in the sha­dow [Page 38] of death; to guide our feet in a way of peace. Joh. 1. 9. That was tha [...] true light that lighteneth every man, &c. Now if thou dost abide in the doctrine of Christ, thy soul is enlighten­ed by Christ: hence it is that the children of God are called the children of light, E [...]. 5. 8 hence it is that they be exhorted to walk [...]s children of the day. Are you enlightened? You will say, I am. What mean these works of darknesse then?

2. The doctrine of Christ is a doctrine of grace working faith in the soul. Joh. 14. 1. Ye believe in God, believe also in me. Joh. 6. 29. This is the work of God, that you believe. Joh. 14. 11. If you will not believe me for my words, yet believe in me for the very works sake that you have seen me do. 1 Joh. 3. 23. And this is his command­ment, that we believe on the name of his Sonne Jes [...]s Christ. No obedience like unto the o­bedience of faith; no disobedience like un­to that of unbelief, for it makes the God of truth a liar. 1 Joh. 5. 10. [...]e that believeth on the Sonne of God hath the witnesse in himself; He that believeth not God hath made him a lia [...], because be believed not the record that God gave of his Son. But most men and women will say they do believe: but there be but few that can shew their faith by their wor [...]s; for faith without works is dead, Jam. 17, 18, &c.

[Page 39] 3. The doctrine of Christ is a doctrine of grace working love in the soul.

First to God. Mat. 22. 37. Christ told the Lawyer that came to him to know (at least [...]s he pretended) what was his doctrine, and what was the most principal part of it: why, saith Christ, Mat. 22. 37. Thou shalt love [...]he Lord thy God wi [...]h all thy heart, with [...]ll thy [...]treng [...]h, and with all thy soule.

Secondly, it works love to the people of God. Joh. 13. 34. A new commandment give I [...]nto you, that you love one another as I have loved [...]o [...]. I loved you when you were in your [...]lood and filthinesse; my love was free, let yours be so: I loved all mine, do you love all the Saints: I laid down my life for the [...]rethren; you ought to lay down your lives for the brethren: I loved you with a constant love, having loved my own, I loved them to the end; so do you: My love carried me forth to become servant to all, even to wash your feet; you, if you will be followers of me, and be known to be my disciples, ought to do so too.

Thirdly, as the doctrine of Christ is a do­ [...]trine of grace working love in the soule, first to God, secondly to his people, so thirdly to our enemies. See and well con­sider that place. Mat. 5. 44. But I say unto [Page 40] you, love your enemies, do good to those that ha [...] you, pray for those that despitefully use you a [...] persecute you. Never think that you contin [...] in my doctrine, unless you observe my com­mands: My commands are, that you shoul [...] not only love God, but also your brother and it must not be limited only there, bu [...] you must love your enemies, or else yo [...] will not be like unto me and my Father Mat. 5. 45. That you may appear to all th [...] world to be the children of your Father which is in heaven; for he maketh his sun to arise [...] the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust: For if you love onely th [...] that love you, the vilest man in the world go­eth so far, this is no character or badge o [...] my servants, the Publicans and Harlots did [...] much as this.

Fourthly, it is a doctrine of grace work­ing upon the will and affections, to will and affect the things of God. First it works upon the will, it resigns it up unto the will of God, nay it makes him live in the will of God. 1. By doing his will. 2. By suffering his will to be done, though it crosse thy will. Again, it works mightily upon thin [...] affections: thy affections are taken off the creatures, and fixed upon the Creator: thou seest more and more beauty in God, and [Page 41] [...]nd lesse and lesse beauty in the creature. [...]he things of the world would satisfie thee [...]eretofore: Now thou cryest out, None but [...]hrist, none but Christ! Nothing will satisfie [...]ut his presence, nothing will make thee [...]d but his absence.

THe second Quaerie is, What is it to abide in the Doctrine of Christ. For the Scri­ture saith, 2 ep. Joh. 9. He that abideth in the [...]ctrine of Christ, hath both the Father and the [...]onne. Now there be several discoveries or [...]haracters of one that abideth in the do­ [...]rine of Christ.

First, there be some inward evidences.

Secondly, there be some outward evi­ [...]ences.

For the inward evidence, Call a counsel [...] thy own heart, silence thy own thoughts, [...]ll all the faculties of thy soul and mem­ [...]ers of thy body to the bar, examine thy [...]ill, thy affections, thy judgment, and me­ [...]ory, Who are you for? what are you doing? [...]ow are you imployed all day long? Search for [...]hat White-stone that hath a Name in it that [...]ne can read but he that hath it. See whether [...]e Spirit of God doth witnesse with thy spirit [...]at thou belongest to God. Doth the presence [...]f Christ rejoice thee? doth his absence [Page 42] grieve thee? See whether thou art like un [...] Christ in thy desires, and in thy endeavou [...] whose work it was to doe the will of his F [...] ­ther, &c.

Secondly, there be some outward e [...] ­dences: I shall name a few.

1. He that abideth in the doctrine [...] Christ, is one that is not easily withdraw [...] from the truth that he first received. 1 J [...] 2. 24. Let that therefore abide in you which y [...] have heard from the beginning: If that whic [...] you have heard from the beginning shall remain [...] you, you shall continue in the Sonne and in th [...] Father. 1. Tim. 4. 16. Take heed to thy self [...] unto the doctrine; continue in them; for in [...] ­ing this thou shalt both save thy self and such hear thee. Be not carried about with every wi [...] of doctrine, saith Paul, Ephes. 4. 14. Beware [...] you fall from your steadfastnesse, saith Peter, 2 P [...] 3. 17. If you continue in my words, then are y [...] my Disciples, saith Christ, Joh. 8. 31. Oh the continue in the faith to be grounded an [...] setled, rooted and established: Be ye stedfo [...] and unmoveable, alwayes abounding in the wo [...] of the Lord.

2. He that abideth in the doctrine [...] Christ, may be known by this; He is a ver [...] fruitful Christian. What is the reason ther [...] is so much barrennesse, coldnesse, deadness [...] [Page 43] [...]lity, lukewarmnesse, evil furnishings and [...]liperings? Why, behold the reason, [...]y abide not in the doctrine of Christ: that abide in that doctrine doe beare [...]ns, there is none barren among th [...]m; [...]y be planted in his house, they abide it; doctrine, therefore they flourish in his [...]urts. Joh. 15. 4. The branch cannot beare [...]t except it abide in the vine; no more can you, [...]ept you abide in me.

3. He that abideth in the doctrine of [...]st may be known by this also; He stands [...]nd contends for the faith and obedience [...]he Gospel against all opposers; he en­vours by sound doctrine to convince all [...]nsayers; He doth not so much plead for [...]mane learning, as he doth for the mind God in the Spirit; he knows the spiri­ [...]l learning can easily foyle the humane [...]rning that wants the spiritual. See that [...]ce Jude 3, 4. That you should earnestly contend [...] the faith that was once delivered to the Saints; [...]n he brings the reason of this con [...]enti­ [...], v. 4. For there are certain men crept in un­ [...]ares, turning the grace of God into lascivious­ [...]se. And surely this is one of Englands sins this day: There be many men and wo­ [...]n puffed up with a high conceit of their [...]n knowledge; and when their princi­ples [Page 44] and practices are a little examin [...] they be but as clouds without rain, and [...] without water, as here Jude speaks.

4. He that abideth in the doctrine Christ, continueth stedfast in the doctr [...] of the Apostles. Act. 2. 42. And they contin [...] stedfastly in the Apostles doctrine and fellows [...] and in breaking of bread and prayer. Not th [...] the Apostles doctrine was one thing, a [...] the doctrine of Christ another thing; [...] whosoever abideth in the one, could n [...] but abide in the other: And they abode fr [...] fast in the Apostles doctrine, that is, they co [...] ­tinued stedfastly in the doctrine of Chri [...] for they delivered that unto us which th [...] received from Christ. They continued in [...] Apostles doctrine and fellowship, and in break [...] of bread and prayer. Let us examine a litt [...] how many men and women, that be god [...] (for I do not speak of others) I say, ho [...] many have we, that do walk together Fellowship? 2. How many are there, that enjoy that Ordinance of the Lords Supp [...] here called Breaking of Bread? 3. How ma [...] have the Spirit of Prayer? Are they not fe [...] yea very few? And yet all be ready to sa [...] that they do abide in the doctrine of Chr [...] Go from one man to another through [...] a whole Shire, and ask them one after [...] [Page 45] [...]er, Do you abide in the doctrine of Christ? [...]ou do not, you have not God. Yea, saith the [...], I do abide in the doctrine of Christ.

Q. How prove you that?

A. I do, saith he, for I have reformed [...]y things that were amisse in me. So did [...]od, that enemy of truth, Mark 6. 20. For [...]od heard Iohn, knowing he was a just man: [...] when he heard him, he did many things.

Q. Come to a second and ask him, Do [...] abide in the doctrine of Christ?

A. I do, saith he; and I know it by this, [...] free from many gross sinnes that others [...]my neighbours are guilty of. So was [...]t Pharisee, Luk. 18. 11, 12. O God I thank [...]e that I am not as other men are, I fast twice [...]eek, and give tithe of all I do possesse.

Q. Come to a third and ask him, Do you [...]de in the doctrine of Christ?

A. I do, saith he, and I prove it thus: [...]ontinue waiting upon God in the use of Ordinances, which others neglect. So [...] those hypocrites, Isa. 58. 2, 3. Yet you seek daily, saith the Lord, and delight to know my [...]es, as a Nation that did righteousnesse, and [...]ook not the ordinances of God. And yet for this the Lord rejected them and their [...]ices.

Q. Come to a fourth, Do you abide in [Page 46] the doctrine of Christ? If you do not, have not God.

A. I do, and I prove it thus: I know will of God, that many others be ignor [...] of, and I approve of his wayes. Rep. So those cast-awayes, Rom. 2. 18. And knowes [...] will, and approvest the things that be more ex [...] ­lent, &c. Yet we see the Lord rejects the upon this ground, They did not prac [...] themselves that which they knew & taug [...] to others.

Q. Come to a fifth, Do you abide in [...] doctrine of Christ?

A. I do, and I can make it good, saith [...] by this: I have humbled my self for all [...] sinnes before the Lord. R. So did wi [...] Ahab, 1 King. 21. 27, 28, 29.

Q. Come to a sixth, Do you abide in [...] doctrine of Christ?

A. I do abide in it, and I think there but few that do outstrip me: for I am [...] so cold and lukewarm as most be, doing [...] Lords work by halfs; I am zealous for [...] Lord, I have had my hand in pulling do [...] the Images and Crucifixes and Altars t [...] the Idolaters had set up, nay I have b [...] chief in this great Reformation. R. So [...] Jehu, whom the Lord rejected, 2 King. [...] 27, 28, 29.

[Page 47] Q. But I do abide in the doctrine of [...]hrist, saith a seventh: If none of the for­ [...]er, yet I am sure I do outstrip them all; [...]r I do keep the commands of God, and [...]at from my youth.

A. So did that young man, Mat. 19. 20. [...]ll these things have I kept from my youth up. [...]hou art not fully in my doctrine, saith [...]hrist; thou must go sell all that thou hast; [...]ou hast abundance of self-righteousnesse, [...]at must be sold.

Q. But I do abide in the doctrine of [...]hrist, saith an eighth; for I do confesse [...]y sins both unto God and to his people, [...]d I do pray for pardon, and desire them [...] pray for pardon also.

A. So did Pharaoh, whom the Lord was [...]leased to get him honour upon, in over­ [...]rowing him and all his host in the midst [...]f the sea, Exod. 10. 16, 17.

Q. But I do abide in the doctrine of [...]hrist, saith a ninth: for I am mercifull [...]nd pittifull to those in want, yea I have [...]elieved the Lords Prophets.

A. The heathen did as much as this to [...]aul, Act. 28. 2. and Ananias and Sapphira did [...]ore then this, and yet perished, as you may [...]e Act. 5. 1, 2, 3, 4.

Q. But I go beyond all that you have [Page 48] mentioned before, saith a tenth man. Wh [...] what hast thou done? I have (saith he) n [...] only heard the Lords word, but I ha [...] heard it with delight, and it takes root [...] my heart, and growes within me both [...] knowledge and obedience.

A. So did those mentioned by Christ [...] those parables, and yet were cast-awayes Mat. 13. 22. Mark 4. 16.

Q. But (saith another) I abide in th [...] doctrine of Christ here, and shall dwell in [...] holy hill hereafter; And that I am assured [...] by the testimony of Scripture, for I have kep [...] mine oaths and promises, yea sometime [...] although it hath been to my hurt: and I fin [...] my name registred in the book of life. An [...] if that fail me, then farewell all. I say, I hav [...] kept my vowes, oaths and promises, thoug [...] sometimes to my losse; and David tells [...] this is a sure mark of a son of Sion: see el [...] Psal. 15. 1, 2, 3, 4. The Psalm begins thus Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who sh [...] dwell in thy holy hill? There is the question Then for answer, v. 2. He that walketh upright­ly, and worketh righteousnesse, and speaketh th [...] truth in his heart, he that backbiteth not with [...] tongue, nor doth evil to his neighbour, nor taket [...] up a reproach against him; in whose eyes a vi [...] person is contemned, but he honoureth them th [...] [Page 49] [...]re the Lord; he that sweareth to his own hurt [...]d changeth not, &c.

See what a Catalogue of Evidences here for Heaven: and if I have not more, I am [...]re I have the last; I have kept my promises [...]d vowes, though to mine own hurt. Now if [...]u can find in Scripture any man left up­ [...] record that hath gone so far as I have [...]ne, and yet a Castaway at last, then speak, otherwise with silence give your consent this mine Evidence for Heaven.

A. I could even say to thee, O man, as [...]ce our Lord Christ said to that learned [...]derate Scribe, Mark 12. 34. Thou art not from the Kingdome of God.

But for keeping oathes and promises, [...]ough it be an excellent ornament for a [...]ristian, yet let me tell thee it is no in­ [...]lible mark of a true Saint: and that will [...]pear, if thou a little consider that in Dan. 29. & 16. compared together: the summe that Chapter is this. Belshazar had seen hand-writing on the wall, and it troubled [...]m: He sends for the Astrologers and [...]uthsayers to give the interpretation to [...]e King: They could not do it: He hears Daniel by the Queens information, he [...]ds for him, Daniel comes to the King; [...]e King desires two things of Daniel, first [Page 50] to read the writing, secondly to ma [...] known the interpretation: which if Da [...] could or would do, the King promiseth [...] three things: First, that he should be cl [...] ­thed with Scarlet; secondly, that he shou [...] have a Chain of gold about his neck; thi [...] ­ly, that he should be made the third ruler his Kingdome. Well, Daniel read the w [...] ­ting, and gave the interpretation, and to [...] the King plainly and boldly, it tended his ruine, and the ruine of all his hou [...] Yet this heathen King kept his oath, vow [...] promise in every tittle of it, as you may [...] Dan. 5. 29. Then commanded Belshazzar, [...] they cloathed Daniel with scarlet, and put a [...] of gold about his neck, & made a proclamation [...] ­cerning him that he should be the third ruler in [...] kingdome. In that night was the King slain, v. 3 Oh how may this condemn many a ma [...] Shall a Heathen keep promise, and a Ch [...] ­stian break his promise? What, shall we [...] outstript by Heathens? Doth not the S [...] ­ptures say, Mat. 5. 20. For I say unto you, th [...] except your righteousnesse shall exceed the righ [...] ­eousnesse of the Scribes and Pharisees, you s [...] in no case enter into the kingdome of God. Is not a great shame for a Christian profess [...] godlinesse, to be outstript by Heathens Truly I have been at a stand many time [Page 51] when I read of Conversations of heathens, &c. The Gentiles had a law to themselues, and [...]t of God.

• First, for Temperance.
• Secondly, for Obedience.
• Thirdly, for Mercy.
• Fourthly, for Justice and upright deal­ [...]ng.

1. For Temperance: King Ahasuerus a [...]eathen King made a law, Hest. 1. 8. And [...]e drinking was according to the Law; none did [...]mpell, for the King had appointed to all the [...]fficers of his house, that they should do accord­ [...]g to every mans pleasure.

2. For Obedience: when King Abimelech [...]ok Abrahams wife, although he was a [...]eathen King, he obeyed the voice of the [...]ord; for no sooner did the Lord com­ [...]and him to deliver Abraham his wife again [...]t he did it: Jonah preached at Niniveh a­ [...]ong the Heathen, and no sooner did they [...]ar him, but the Text saith of them, they [...]d believe and repent.

3. For Mercy: The barbarous heathen­ [...] people were very merciful to Paul and [...]e rest of the company, Act. 28. 22. And the [...]rbarous people shewed us no little kindnesse; [...] they kindled a fire, and received us every one, [...]ause of the present rain and because of the cold.

[Page 52] 4. For Justice and upright dealing: Th [...] King of Sodome a heathen King, when Abra­ham had overcome the foure Kings, and brought home the Sodomites, the King o [...] Sodome said unto him, Give me the men, and take the goods for thy pains, Gen. 14. 21.

Oh then were Heathens taught by th [...] law of Nature the sweet principles and pr [...] ­ctice of Temperance, Mercy, Obedience an [...] Justice; and shall we who do think of ou [...] ­selves far beyond them in matters natur [...] and spiritual, shall we (I say) be outstrippe by them and come short of them? Shall [...] thus requite the Lord for all his love? shal [...] shall we dishonour him, that hath so high [...] honoured us as to call us his fervants, h [...] brethren, his members, his Bride, his Body his Temple! Oh let not Heathens outstr [...] us in obedience! let us outstrip them, y [...] let us endeavour to outstrip the most for ward Saints in the world; Labour to exc [...] all the Saints in love, in patience, in mee [...] ­nesse, sobriety and temperance: impro [...] all thy spiritual strength for him who ga [...] it to thee; Thou hast enjoyments of hi [...] improve it for him, yea let all thy know ledge of him bring thee neerer to him, an [...] make thee more like him: Let thy longing desires and endeavours be more to grow [Page 53] grace then gifts. 1. Cor. 12. 31. But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet I shew [...]n [...]o you a more excellent way. This more excellent [...]way here spoken of, is the grace of Love, as you may see 1 Cor. 13. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. Now it will be useful a little to enquire how many sorts of gifts there be, seeing the Apostle saith, Covet earnestly the best.

For answer hereunto in generall, There be but two sorts of gifts:

First, there are gifts of Nature, or gifts Natural; and they are many.

Secondly, there are gifts Spiritual, or gifts given by the Spirit; and they be se­verall.

1. There are gifts of Nature, or gifts Na­tural: And by these a man may doe many excellent things, and yet not have one grain of grace. If a man should preach as never man preached, and though he should pray as never man prayed, and though he confer and discourse of all things as never man did; may if he should speak with the tongues of men and Angels, and have gifts of Prophecie, and un­derstand all mysteries: yea, though he be so pittiful as to give all his goods to the poor, & his body to be burned; nay though he hath all the gifts, arts and parts that ever were in man, only grace excepted, all this avails him nothing. [Page 54] It is true, such a man is a little honoured of men, they cry him up for a brave Church­man: if he be given to covetousnesse, of drunkennesse, or any other vice, Oh (say the people) he is a brave Scholar, there is not a man more deeper learned in all the City! And such is the grosse ignorance of this Commonweale, (to your shame be it spoken) that most of you do think and say, That he that is a Scholar cannot but be ac­quainted with Religion; and when you hear him preach, he is so scholastick, and so eloquent, and so pleasing, that you are apt to say of him as once the people did of Herod when he made his oration, It is the voice of God, and not of a man. Act. 12. 21, 22.

What excellent wisdome had gracelesse Achitophel? 2 Sam. 16. 23. And the counsels of Achitophel which he gave in those dayes, was, as if a man had enquired at the oracles of God; so was all the counsel of Achitophel both with David and Absolom. Here were gifts in the highest nature, but for want of grace he perished: and it is apparent that he was cryed up in those dayes, as our Achitophels be now a­dayes.

What wise and discreet answer did that Scribe give unto our Lord Christ, Mar. 12. 33, 34. And when Iesus heard his answer, he [Page 55] told him, he was not far from the kingdome of [...]od. There were but three things required, [...]nd this Scribe had gotten two of them, [...]nly he wanted grace: he had gifts in a­undance, the least dram or grain of grace [...]ad made him happy for ever.

Oh then, (in a word, and so to close up [...]is) would you live and abide in the doctrine [...]f Christ? Oh then live out of your selves, [...] the Spirit, upon Christ! let him be high­ [...]t in thy thoughts, dearest in thine affecti­ [...]ns, constant in thy purposes! See him once [...] be the chiefest of ten thousand, and then [...]ou wilt have no need of any man to bid [...]ee enquire after him. Read and well [...]on­ [...]der this Scripture, Cant. 5. 9, 10, &c.

This is all at present that I have to say of [...]e Armour of Christ, and of the Doctrine of [...]hrist. The next thing to be considered, [...]hich neerly concerns all Christians, is this, [...]iz.

3. To live in the will of God. For, There is no [...]wer, but of God.

In this third particular, here are two [...]ings to be enquired into.

Q. 1. What is it to live in the will of [...]od?

A. 1. To be doing the will of God.

2. By suffering the will of our Father.

[Page 56] Q. 2. How are we to understandth is, tha [...] there is no power but of God?

A. 1. We are to consider, there is n [...] power but of and in God, essentially or o­riginally, habitually or virtually &c.

2. And yet there is a power in ever [...] Creature, distributively and by partici­pation.

Now then to live in the will of God, it is t [...] be doing his will, and suffering his will. But o [...] this I shall speak or write afterwards, and s [...] enter upon the second Quaere.

1. There is no power but of God ori­ginally and essentially; He hath his being in himself, and he alone gives being to al [...] creatures: Of him, from him, and to him are al [...] things. There was no motion, vigor or acti­on, life or growth, untill he created and en­livened the creatures: so that all things center in him, as having their being from him, who hath his being in himself, and gives being to them: He made all things for his own glory, who alone is worthy of al [...] glory, honour and praise, and he will be glorified by every living thing in the whole creation, either by their salvation or de­struction; He will magnifie the attribute of his mercy on the one, and the attribute of his justice on the other: yea, the whol [...] [Page 57] Creation is a book wherein we may read God, every thing doth utter its voice, the [...]e [...]vens, the Stars, the Sun and the Moon, [...]o all in their kind declare the handy work [...]f God; nay every thing above us, beneath [...]s, on our right hand, and on our left, do [...]ll speak saying, Behold the wonderfull [...]orks of the Lord God Almighty, from [...]hom I had my being, in whom I center, [...]y whose life I live, by whose strength I [...]ove: his power may be seen in creation, [...]edemption, vocation, justification, and [...]anctification. Yea, by him all things con­ [...]st, 1 Col. 17. The Fish cannot swim in the [...]ater, but by his power; the Bird cannot [...]y in the aire, but by his power; the Spar­ [...]ow cannot fall to the ground, saith the [...]criptures, without his providence. Mat. [...]2. 29.

The attribute of his Wisdome is seen in [...]he variety of Creatures that he hath made, [...]nd the sweet harmony that there is among [...]hem, each of them doing after his kinde, [...]nely M [...]n excepted, which in his creation [...]as made the most bless [...]d of all creatures, [...]ut by his fall in the first Adam, and not im­ [...]racing the second Adam, is become the most [...]rsed creature of all: so that we may say [...]f all men and women fallen in the first A­dam, [Page 58] and not restored by the second, as on [...] our Lord Christ said concerning Judas, Ma [...] 14. 2. Good were it for that man, if he had neve [...] been borne.

So the attribute of his Power may be see [...] in the upholding the whole Creation; an [...] the attribute of his Mercy, in the preserv [...] ­tion of his Creatures.

All that we are, have, or do enjoy, ar [...] gifts of God; and if we act and move b [...] the power of God, then it is impossibly tha [...] we should perform any spiritual duty o [...] our selves without his assistance. Christ tel [...] leth Pilate, that he could have no power at a [...] against him, unlesse it was given him. A ma [...] can receive nothing (saith the Baptist) excep [...] it be given him from heaven, Joh. 3. 27. It i [...] God (saith Paul) that worketh in us both to wi [...] and to doe: what have we therefore which w [...] did not receive?

So then all things be from him, but al [...] things are not him, (as some ignorantl [...] imagine) I say again, all things are from hi [...] but all things are not him: He is the Crea­tor, we be the creatures; He hath his being in himselfe, we have our being from him▪ He was from everlasting before time, we ha [...] our being from him in time; He is immu­table, we are all mutable; He is Alpha an [...] [Page 59] Omega, the beginning and the ending, which [...] and which was, and which is to come. The [...] mighty, he can bring good out of evil, [...]ht out of darknesse, strength out of weak­ [...]sse, hobour out of dishonour. If the first [...]am be deceived by the Serpent, he will [...]rn it to his glory; if the second Adam be [...]trayed by a Judas, he will turn it to [...] Glory: If the first fall by unbelief, he [...] raise us in a second by faith: in a word, [...] is the head of all principality & power, 2 Col. [...]. All power is in him habitually, vertu­ [...]y, primitively, originally, essentially.

The Scriptures are so full in setting forth [...]s, that there is no power but of God, almost every book from the beginning of Genesis [...] the end of the Revelation, that I suppose [...]ere is no man, if he be endued but with [...]mmon reason, will or can deny it: where­ [...]e excuse me if I am silent and speak no [...]ther to it.

2. The next thing to be considered is, [...]e power that is in every Creature. If there be [...] power but in God, (as hath in some [...]asure been proved in the former expres­ [...]ns) Tell me then, without any evasions, [...]w there is a power in every Creature?

A. There is no power but of God, ori­ [...]ally and essentially, habitually, primi­tively, [Page 60] or virtually: But there is a power [...] every Creature distributively. The pow [...] is in God as in a fountain, it is in us [...] streams flowing from that fountain, but n [...] essentially, habitually or virtually.

There is a twofold power that is dist [...] ­buted or given forth to the Creature; t [...] first is common to all, the second is prop [...] only to some.

First there is a natural power, as one tale [...] which we ought not to hide in a napki [...] given forth to all men and women, wi [...] severall commands from the Giver to i [...] ­prove that.

Secondly, there is his blessed Spirit giv [...] forth with a spiritual power only to som [...] by vertue of which they can pray in the Sp [...] ­rit, rejoyce in the Spirit, worship God wh [...] is a Spirit in spirit and truth; they can re [...] and understand the L [...]er in the Spirit, th [...] can discourse of spiritual things unde [...] ­standingly and feelingly: further, by th [...] power they can bring down strong holds, th [...] can cast down imaginations and every high thin [...] they can bring more or lesse their though [...] into captivity unto the obedience of Christ. Re [...] and well consider 2 Cor. 10. 3, 4, 5, 6.

1. First of the first: There is a natu [...] power given forth from God to the Creature, [Page 61] [...] Talent; which the Creature is not to hide in [...]apkin, but to improve. Now [...]hough this [...]wer was not ours, but Gods, in whom [...] power dwels: yet (he having given this [...] us) it becomes ours; for a man may as [...]operly cal that his own which was given [...]m, as that which he bought with his [...]ony. Christ tels Pilate, that he could have [...] power either to release him or to condemn him, [...]les it were given him, Jo. 19. 10, 11. But there [...]as a power given to Pilate, even a natural [...]ower; and Pilate judged him and con­ [...]emned him.

If there be no power given forth from [...]od to the Creature, then there is no pow­ [...] in the Creature; and then all those ex­ [...]ortations, perswasions, intreatings and [...]eseechings are in vain. But that there is a [...]ower in the Creature, I say a received pow­ [...]r, a derivative power, it will appear, if you [...]ill answer seriously to what followes, [...]iz. Tell me, O man, whosoever thou art, [...]hat dost read or hear these lines, Hast thou [...]er done so much good, or refrained so [...]uch evil, as thou mightest have done? Consider of it, and see: what knowledge, [...]hat wisdome, what comfort, what full [...]ssurance mightest thou and I by this time [...]ave risen unto? What means that Scrip­ture, [Page 62] Heb. 5. 12. Where as by this time you mi [...] have been teachers of others, you have need to taught your selves what be the first principles religion. You might have been teachers [...] others, if you had improved your talen [...] Did Paul speak truly or falsely, O ma [...] when he brake forth into these words, 1 C [...] 9. 4, 5, 6. in v. 4. Have we not power to e [...] and to drink? and have we not power to lead [...] ­bout a sister or wife as well as others? v. 6. Agai [...] have we not power to forbeare working, &c. There is a place worth our noting, Jer. 3 [...] 6. & 18. 19. compared together. In v. [...] there is mention made of one Jonadah whic [...] commanded his sonnes that they shoul [...] drink no wine: and in v. 18. & 19. we fin [...] that they in obedience to the command [...] their father did forbear to drink any during lif [...] Insomuch that the Almighty took noti [...] of this their obedience to their father, i [...] improving their natural power in a wa [...] of temperance. Just as Paul: I have power t [...] eat and to drink (saith he) and as oft as [...] pleased he could forbear eating and drinking fo [...] a season. Oh how much is God blamed, an [...] man excused by denying this! Solomon saith Wherefore is there a price put into the hands of [...] foole to get wisdom? Mind, first here is a pric [...] or talent given; 2. Where it is put, into th [...] [Page 63] hands of a fool; 3. For what end it is put in­ [...]o his hands, to get wisdome, &c. 4. The rea­ [...]on why he hath not wisdome, he hath no [...]eart to mind it, no desire to it. Some would [...]ave God not only to give them ability, [...]ut to perform the action; and then indeed [...]ey might say it was the will of God it [...]uld be so, when they did evil; for then [...]ey would be carried on as the Sun, Moon [...]nd Stars are without resistance. But God [...]aving made man a rational creature, and [...]iven him power to act, he requires him to [...]t by vertue of that power given him, and [...] commends him for acting well, & blames [...]im for acting ill. And though our ability [...]e but small at first, yet if we improve that [...]ccording to the strength we have, God hath [...]romised to increase it, and we shall grow [...]om strength to strength: But if we be un­ [...]ithful in that which is least, he will not [...]ust us with more. It is good therefore to [...]o what we can, and ask and seek for what [...]e cannot do. It was possible for the sons [...]f Jonadab to obey their fathers command, [...] not drinking wine: and it was as pos­ [...]ble for Israel to obey their Lords com­ [...]and; for God reproves them by that [...]xample, Jer. 35. 14. I suppose that the [...]ghteous God never commands impossible [Page 64] things. The word is nigh thee, in thy mouth a [...] in thy heart, saith Moses, that thou mayest do [...] Deut. 30. 13, 14. Therefore (in the book) [...] bids them choose life. Choose (saith Joshu [...] whom you will serve; as for me and my house, [...] will improve our selves to the utterm [...] to serve the Lord, Jos. 24. 15. And therefo [...] the Lord complains, because they did n [...] chuse the feare of the Lord, Pro. 12. 9. The [...] want of ability is not once mentioned as a [...] excuse.

Again, let me ask thee O man whosoev [...] thou art that readest these lines, Dost tho [...] not think and believe that God hath give [...] everyman power and ability to do so muc [...] as he requires of him? For the proof har [...] of read understandingly Rom. 1. 19, 20, & [...] For the Lord is so just, and his wayes [...] equal, that he never requires impossib [...] things of his creatures: He dealeth wit [...] man according to what he hath, and co [...] ­mands what he knowes he may perfor [...] He is not like Pharaoh, to command Brick [...] be made without Straw. He gives forth h [...] Talents, and commands the Receiver [...] improve that: and when he comes to ca [...] them to an account, he doth not dema [...] five talents where he gave but one; only [...] blames that servant for not improvi [...] [Page 65] that one; he that was not able to bring [...]old or Silver, Silk or fine Linnen to the [...]ilding of the Temple, if he brought [...]asse, or Goats haire, or such as he could, [...]tha willing heart, it was accepted; Again, [...] finde that he that was not able to bring [...]amb or a Kid for his sin Offering, must [...]ing two Turtle Doves or young Pigeons; [...]he could not bring those, then the tenth [...]rt of an Ephah of fine flower should serve. [...] where the Lord gives much, he requires [...]ch; and where he gives little, he re­ [...]ires but little.

Now is the Lord so tender of the people, [...]t he would not have them to stretch [...]emselves beyond their abilities in point [...] Sacrifices; and is not he as tender of [...]ir weaknesse in other points of obedi­ [...]ce; Doth he command impossibilities? [...]n the Creature may have a just execuse at [...] last day; when every man shall be judged [...]ording to his works, saying; If thou [...]st given me power to doe that which [...]u gavest me a command to doe, then I [...] done it; and so his disobedience is cast [...]on his Judge, for not giving strength to [...]e that he required: If this be true, then [...]me not those that say, that God is the au­ [...]r of sinne.

[Page 66] But shall I aske thee again, O vain man hast thou done so much good, and refrai [...] ­ed so much evil that thou mightest ha [...] done? Put this question to thy Conscienc [...] saying, Conscience, I doe charge thee in t [...] presence of the Lord to deal truly with me [...] Have I done so much good, and refrained [...] much evil as I might have done? me thin [...] I hear thy Conscience saying to thee, a [...] mine hath often to me; No, no, thou ha [...] been a sloathful servant in the Lords Vin [...] yard: O poore filly man! art thou like t [...] Bruites, that doe not know their ow [...] strength? Why, dost thou not know, [...] vain man! that God that made thee, ha [...] indued thee with power and abilit [...] suteable to thy state and quality? Hat [...] thy wise Creatour given forth a power t [...] the Fishes of all sorts to swim, and to t [...] Fowls of the Ayre to flye, and the Beasts [...] the Earth to go from place to place; ye [...] hath he given wisdome and power to t [...] meanest of Creatures, the Ant and Pismi [...] Crane and Swallow, &c. and thou O ma [...] whom the Lord of Lords hath made Lo [...] over al these things, hast thou no ability, a [...] thou a meer dead lump, doth God call, a [...] canst thou not heare nor answer? wilt tho [...] tell him when he shall judge thee, that [...] [Page 67] d [...]d not impower thee? Wilt thou charge [...]y Omissions and Commission upon him? [...]ilt thou make him worse then wicked [...]haroah, which made the Children of Is­ [...]el make Brick without Straw? let me tell [...]ee O man! thou art able by the power [...]hat is given thee according to Gods com­ [...]on Providence, I say, thou art able by [...]ertue of that power received, to speake or [...] hold thy peace, to go or to sit still; and [...]hen thou and I shall both appear before [...]e Tribunal Seat of God at the day of [...]udgement, thou and I shal not be charged [...]ith what we could not doe, but for lea­ [...]ng undone that which we ought & might [...]ave done. Now that I might not be mista­ [...]en, I shal make or propose these few excep­ [...]ons, or limitations to what hath been said.

1. There is a power in God incommu­ [...]cable, I doe not say, there is any such [...]ower in us; there is a power also in him [...]ommunicable, which dwels in us, accord­ [...]g to the measure thereof communica­ [...]d, &c.

2 We are to consider that this power in [...]e Creature, as it was given forth from [...]im, so it is limitted by him.

3 I doe not say or affirme, that natural [...]wer can act in supernatural things; for [Page 68] I know the contrary, that it cannot, bu [...] only in naturall.

4. Although I doe affirm that all me [...] have a natural power; yet I doe not sa [...] that every man natural hath it in the sam [...] measure; for I see men transcending o [...] another in gifts natural; as men excee [...] and goe beyond one another in gifts Spi­ritual.

Truly friends, it is worth our considera­tion a litle to study or enquire into our na­tural abilities, that so we might improv [...] them to the b [...]st advantage; for natura [...] improvements shal have natural rewards, a [...] spiritual improvements shall have spiritua [...] rewards. If Ahab repent with a natural r [...] ­pentance, Ahab shall receive a natural re­ward, as you may see, 1 King. 21. 27. It wi [...] further appear, that a natural man hath [...] natural power by this also; look upon th [...] whole Nation of men and w [...]men natura [...] and you shall see great differences in thei [...] improvements; the one will avoid sin fo [...] seare of punishment; another will avoi [...] sin for fear of shame; another will run o [...] in sin, fearing neither punishment no [...] [...]ame; some men meerly natural they wi [...] speak soberly, and answer to things i [...] their clem [...]t difinctly and wisely.

[Page 69] Some men natural are so punctual in [...]eeping their promises, and so faithful in [...]he trust reposed in them; that they endea­ [...]our to doe as they would be done unto▪ [...]nd truly these things are to be commended [...] men natural and in men spiritual.

And that a natural man may doe more [...]hen he doth by his naturall power, will [...]asily appear by these foure things:

First, Because I have seen, and so have [...]any others, that man meerly natural hath [...]mitted evill, and set himself about the do­ [...]ng of that which in it self is good, when [...]he eye of the Magistrate hath been over [...]im.

Secondly, I have seen men, and that not [...] few, refrain from sin, as Drunkenesse, [...]wearing, and Sabbath-breaking, because [...]he Law of the Nation constrains them [...]hereunto. A man could not for these [...]any years walk along the Key of this City, but he should hear the Porters and [...]alliers cursing and swearing, as men that [...]ad never learned to speak any other lan­guage; and so with the Butchers, you [...]ould not walk along the Shambles, but [...]our heart would even tremble to hear the [...]ame of God so often, and fearfully taken [...]n vain; Now, through the wisdom of our [Page 70] Parliament to Enact, and the diligence [...] our Mayor to Execute (for the life of th [...] Law lyes in the due execution thereof) yo [...] may now walk the Key and Shambles, in th [...] middest of the Porters, Hallie [...]s, and Bu [...] ­chers, and hear them speak with ne [...] tongues: Yea, you shall through the good nesse of the Lord in the care of the Mag [...] ­strate scarce hear one man, woman, o [...] childe from the beginning of the week t [...] the end thereof, either swear or curse. No [...] from what power is it that these men a [...] able to forbeare swearing, being so accust [...] ­med unto it, some twenty, some forty, som [...] fi [...]ty years? is there not a natural power i [...] them which they did before abuse? or els [...] will you say with our new Novelists or up [...] start wantons, that it was God that di [...] swear, and so swearing is no sin?

I shall close up this point giving you m [...] judgement therein, which is, that as the lo [...] of Christ doth constrain some, so the fear o [...] punishment doth compell others; the o [...] to improve his spiritual parts, the othe [...] his natural parts.

Thirdly, That there is a natural powe [...] in a natural man, which he may and ough [...] to improve in all naturall things, as wil [...] appear in this; if you take notice what [Page 71] change there wil be in a mans actions when [...]e fear of death possesseth him; his wick­ [...] company, and his wicked practices, [...]e begins to complain of them both; and [...]en he begins to acknowledge there was a [...]ower in him, and promiseth the Lord in [...]e presence of all his friends, if the Lord [...]ill spare him a little longer time, he will [...]ever be drunk, & swear, and lye and blas­ [...]heme as he hath done; he will now reade & [...]arn to pray, and come amongst the Lords [...]eople, whom he hated; and waite at the [...]oole of Bethesda till the Angel move the wa­ [...]ers.

Fourthly, Come to a Natural man, that [...]s sitting still, and if thou wilt know whe­ [...]her there be any power in him; tell him [...]f he will travel to such a City, and doe [...]uch and such businesse for thee, thou wilt give him so many pounds for his labour [...]nd pains; see now how he will improve [...]ll his natural parts to effect this businesse; [...]e will imploy his tongue to enquire the way, and his feet to carry him on in the way, and he will imploy his memory to keep account of the miles; yea, every part [...]n the whole man shall be imployed in his [...]ace to accomplish this businesse; and the [...]st wheel that sets all the rest on going is [...]hope of gain.

[Page 72] Oh, what pains and care doe men tak [...] for the hope of gain; they will rise early, a [...] lye down late, and eat the bread of carefulnesse they will observe time and tide, and a [...] things conducing thereunto, to accom­plish their desires, they will improve all op­portunities, make use of all means, depri [...] themselves of sleep, and sometimes of the [...] food, to get a little gain; they scrape an [...] pull, and rake to make their Dunghi [...] higher then their Neighbours; and the [...] they get upon the top of their Dunghi [...] and stand with their arms a Kimbo, an [...] look so big and so lofty, that if any of hi [...] neighbours whose Dunghil is not so high as his, [...]hance to come to speak with him he must bend his Knee and take off his Ha [...] and stand bare before him, or else he shal [...] have but few words with him; and if thi [...] man whose Dunghil is so high come once to be enlightned by the Spirit of God, h [...] presently with Solomon, Eccles. 2. 11. writ [...] vnity upon all his treasure, or else break [...] forth with Zacheus, Luk. 19. 8. Beho [...]d, th [...] h [...]lf of my goods I give to the poore; and if [...] have wronged any man, I will restore him foure­fold.

[Page 73] See the wisdome and policie of the un­ [...]st Steward, and his improvement of both [...]o the best advantage, as to himself, Lu [...]. 16. [...] 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. and for his policie the Lord [...]ommends him, Luk. 16. 8. but for his un­ [...]ithfulness as to his master the Lord blames [...]m, Luk. 16. 10. and in the 11 v. the Lord [...]aweth this conclusion from the former [...]position, If therefore you have not been faith­ [...] in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit your trust the true riches? As if he had said, [...] you have abused your natural power, [...]hich is the lesser, who will give you spi­ [...]tual power, which is the greater? Read [...]d well consider these Scriptures, viz. Cor. 11. 14. Doth not even nature it self teach [...] other things? Rom. 1. 26, 27. There you all finde that both men and women are [...]arged by the Spirit of God for not im­ [...]oving nature, and for doing things con­ [...]ary to nature So again, Rom. 1. 19, &c. [...]d Rom. 7. 14. and 1 Cor. 11, 15, 16. [...] loved, if these things be well considered, [...] will appeare that there is given forth by [...]e Creator to the creature a power natu­ [...]l; and our abuse of this power must be [...]d upon ourselves, and not upon God. [...]m. 1. v. 13, 14. Let no man say when he is [...]pted, he is tempted of God, for God tempteth [Page 74] no man: But he is drawn aside of his own l [...] and enticed.

2. There is a Spiritual power; a [...] and that is not given forth universally [...] all, but those, and those only to whom [...] hath given, and in whom he hath plant [...] his Spirit, by vertue of which these men a [...] women can pray in the Spirit, rejoice [...] the Spirit, and in some measure worsh [...] God who is a Spirit, in spirit and in trut [...] These can read and understand the letter [...] the spirit, they can discourse of spiritu [...] things understandingly and feelingly; b [...] this power they can pull down strong hol [...] cast down imaginations. Read for the proof [...] this, 2 Cor. 10. 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. By this power th [...] can keep down their natural or corrupt [...] ­ble body, as Paul, 2 Cor. 9. 27. But I ke [...] under my body and bring it unto subjection, left should be found to preach that to others that should not practise my self.

Now this spiritual power, as it was r [...] ­ceived from God, so it is to be improv [...] for God: which if we be faithful and di [...] ­gent so to do, then

First, the Lord will have the glory, M [...] 5. 16.

Secondly, it will redound to our gre [...] ­est good, Mat. 21. 22, 23.

[Page 75] And that there is a spiritual power, it [...]ll further appear from the several com­ [...]ands from the Lord to his people to be [...]ing in spiritual things; which were all [...] vain, if there be no ability given forth to [...]e Creature to do that which is required. [...]ight instance in as many places as there [...] Chapters in the Bible, to prove it: but [...]r brevities sake I shall mention but a few. [...]t. 11. 23. Barnabas exhorted them all, that [...]th purpose of heart they would cleave unto the [...]rd. They did not answer him and say [...]at they had no power, they could not doe it. [...]il. 2. 12. Work out your own salvation with [...]re and trembling. These people did not [...]y, there was Free-will in the Text. As King [...]AMES once said upon the like occasion, [...]ere was Treason in the Text: when a [...]inister that preached before him had taken Text of Scripture that did treat of the a­ [...]se of Kingly power, the King burst forth [...] a passion and said, There was Treason in the [...]xt. But if Kings will not cast down their [...]rowns at the feet of Christ, Christ will [...]uck them off and lay them at the feet of [...]en.

If there be no power in man Natural, nor [...] man Spiritual; then away with all the [...]dmonitions, Instructions, Informations, [Page 76] and so with the whole Bible! cease to tea [...] Man! As good go teach the Sun, Moon an [...] Stars which way they shall go, the Wind [...] blow or the Sea to ebb and flow; go tea [...] the Fish to swim, and the Bird to flie; f [...] they have power, but man hath none.

And indeed, if man regenerated, if ma [...] spiritualized have no power to act; go an [...] race out these ensuing Scriptures, as requ [...] ­ring that of man which man hath no abili [...] to do. Luk. 13. 24. Strive to enter in at t [...] strait gate. Many shall seeke to enter, & [...] Rom. 15. 30. Now I beseech you brethren f [...] the Lord Iesus Christs sake, and for the love [...] the Spirit, that you strive together with me yo [...] prayers to God for me. H [...]b. 12. 4. You have n [...] yet resisted unto blood, striving against si [...] Heb. 12. 1. Let us lay aside every weight, and t [...] sinne that doth so easily beset us; and let us [...] with patience the race that is set before us. 2 Pe [...] 1. 5, 6, 7. And besides this give all diligence, ad [...] to your faith vertue, and to vertue knowledge, a [...] to knowledge temperance, and to temperance pa [...] ­ence, and to patience godlinesse, and to godline [...] brotherly kindnesse, and to brotherly kindne [...] charity, &c. 2 Pet. 1. 10. Give all diligence [...] make your calling and election sure. 2 Phil. 1 [...] Work out your own salvation with fear and tre [...] ­bling. Jer. 4. 14. O Ierusalem wash thine he [...] [Page 77] [...]m wickednesse, that thou mayest be saved. [...]r. 18. 11. Return from your evil wayes, and [...]ake your wayes and doings good, saith the Lord. [...]at. 11. 28. Come unto me all ye that labour and [...]e heavy laden, and I will give you rest. J [...]r. 3. 13. [...]ly acknowledge thine iniquity, & I wil pardon it. Now as many as have received this spiri­ [...]al power, are able according to its mea­ [...]re to doe the thing required. As to in­ [...]nce: The Lord said to David, Seek my face. [...]avid's heart being enlightened and im­ [...]wered by God, makes this answer to the [...]rds command, Lord, thy face will I seek. [...]d sometimes God conveyes the power [...]gether with the precept, to enable them [...] do what he commands them to do. And [...]en if a man do it not, or do the contrary, [...]e Scripture tels thee, thou art slothfull, [...]d dost not use thy power; or covetous, [...]d so abusest thy power. 1 C or. 9. 18.

Now let me ask thee (O thou enlighten­ [...] Christian) hast thou since thou wast en­ [...]ghtened by Christ, done as much for Christ thou mightest have done? Doth not thy [...]nscience tell thee thou hast been negligent [...]d slothful, and left undone those things [...]hich thou oughtest to have done, and done [...]ose things which thou mightest have left [...]done? In a word, hast thou avoided so [Page 78] much evil, and done so much good as th [...] mightest have done? What thou wilt [...] now, I know not: but when thou an [...] shall appear before the Searcher of all hea [...] at [...] the last day, we shall not tell the Lo [...] we wanted power to obey him in his co [...] ­mands.

Surely if there be no life, vigor & pow [...] in men and women regenerate, then in va [...] are all those stirrings, perswafions and i [...] treaties in Scripture: as to instance in a fe [...] 2 Tim. 1. 6. Wherefore I put thee in remembra [...] that thou stirre up the gift of God which is in th [...] 2 Pet. 1. 13. Yea I think it meet as long as I [...] in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you remembrance, &c. 2 Pet. 3. 1. This epistle ( [...] loved) I now write unto you, in which I sti [...] up your pure minds by way of remembrance, & [...] Heb. 3. 13. But exhort one another daily whil [...] is called to day, lest any of you be hardened thro [...] the deceitfulnesse of sin. Heb. 10. 24. Let us [...] ­sider one another to provoke one another to l [...] and good works. 1 Cor. 4. 16. Wherefore I seech you be ye followers of me. 1 Pet. 1. 15. [...] as he which called you is holy, so be ye holy in manner of conversation. 2 Tim. 2. 19. Let e [...] one that nameth the name of the Lord depart fr [...] iniquity. Ephes. 4. 22. That you put off the [...] man which is corrupt. Mat. 5. 16. Let your l [...] [Page 79] [...]shine before men, that they may see your good [...]s, and glorifie your Father which is in heaven. Tim. 4. 13. Till I come, give attendance to [...]ding, to exhortation, to doctrine, &c.

Now if there be no power in a man re­ [...]wed to do what is commanded, then rase [...]t all the Commands, for they be all in [...]in; they be worse then Pharaoh, they re­ [...]ire heavenly bricks to be made of earthly [...]aw.

Away with all exhortations, perswasi­ [...]s, intreatings, and heavenly strivings, if [...]ere be no ability in the creature to whom [...]u speak. Hath the Lord indeed made [...]n an empty creature and void of reason? [...]th not man many members in his body [...]d faculties in his soul? cannot the Eye see, [...]nnot the Ear hear? cannot the Legs go? [...]nnot the hands work, &c. And for the [...]ule, is there not an understanding to un­ [...]stand? is there not a mind or memory to [...]nde or remember? is there not a judge­ [...]nt to judge and determine of things? is [...]ere not a will to will the thing, that the [...]dgment doth judge as good? Are there [...]t Affections to affect that, which the [...]dgment presents as good? Or else doth [...]d speak to man as a stock or a stone? [...]th the most righteous God require im­possibilities [Page 80] of his creatures? doth he ca [...] and cannot man answer? or will he not a [...] ­swer? or doth he call, and we hear him, r [...] ­quiring many things to be done by us, a [...] threatens us if we doe it not, and gives [...] no power to doe it? No, no, this is not t [...] administration of the Gospel: for either [...] doth impowre them before he command them; or else, with the command the [...] goes forth a power and a promise to enab [...] his creature to the performance of what [...] requires; onely thou and I doe many tim [...] resist that Spirit and power as much as w [...] can; we are not faithfull to the Spirit, w [...] grieve it, and sometimes in a sense quen [...] it: yea, the Lord cals once, yea twice, an [...] we doe not not, nor will not hear him; an [...] if we cannot but hear him, instead of goi [...] to him, we run to Elie, See 1 Sam. 3. 5, 6.

Surely Joshua had a power as well as a r [...] ­solution, when he spake these words, Jos [...] 24. 15. I and my house will serve the Lord: an [...] those whom he there spake to in tha [...] chap. Jos. 24. 14, 15. I say, those people ha [...] also a power to doe what he command them to doe, or else his commands are i [...] vain: He exhorts them to fear the Lord, a [...] to serve him in truth and sincerity: and in th [...] 31. verse, we read, that they did as Josh [...] [Page 81] [...]d commanded them; for the Text saith, [...]at Israel served the Lord all the dayes of Io­ [...]t, and all the dayes of the Elders that overlived [...]shua, &c. So also in the twelsth of the [...]mans, we have in that Chapter at least six [...]d twenty particular duties that we are [...]horted unto. Now if there is no ability [...] a Christian to perform or practise that [...]ich there is recorded, then all those ex­ [...]tations are in vain, and Paul had been good have spoken to the men and wo­ [...]n that were laid in the graves, as unto [...]se he then spake unto.

If there be no power given forth from [...]d unto his people, lay aside as needlesse uselesse all those precious directions, in­ [...]ctions, perswasions, exhortations, and [...]cepts mentioned in Scripture, and so [...]u wilt at once lay aside half the Old and [...]w Testament, as many deluded souls do [...]his day; and then thou liest open, as [...]ing no guard to further temptations: [...]en in comes Sathan, and begins to reason [...] case with thee: Why (saith he) if half Bible be uselesse to us, why not all? And [...]e will undertake to teach thee, and in­ [...] so he will, for he is one of the most la­ [...]ious Schoolmasters in the world; he [...]l improve all opportunities, and take [Page 82] all advantages to fasten his doctrine up [...] thee: he will wait on thee continuall [...] when thou liest down, and when thou ri [...] up he will be at thy elbow: he will prom [...] thee great things, and give thee little; [...] will promise thee honour, and bring thee disgrace; he will promise thee pleasure, a [...] bring thee to pain; he will promise th [...] riches, and bring thee to poverty; he w [...] promise thee life, and bring thee to d [...]a [...] Oh then, remember that bless [...]d wor [...] Jam. 4. 7. Resist the Devil, and he shall flee [...] thee.

Ob. But thou wilt object and say, I h [...] not faith to resist him: And it is not in [...] power of man by nature to believe, as y [...] may see I Cor. 1. 23. & 2. 14. Rom. 8. 7▪ John 40. & 44. Mat. 23. 37.

An. It is true; I have affirmed bef [...] that a man meerly natural cannot ac [...] supernatural things: but I am not sp [...] ­ing to a man natural, but to the recei [...] power of a man spiritual, and the impro [...] ­ment of that.

Obj. But before you proceed further [...] desire satisfaction to this one question:

Q. Why doth God promise eternal [...] only to those that believe, and threatene [...] ­nal death to those that do not, seeing [...] [Page 83] [...]ot in their own power by nature to be­ [...]ieve.

A. First, that he might by his promises [...]nd threatnings work us unto that which [...]y nature we are averse to 2 Cor. 5. 11. & 20.

Secondly, that we might appeare more [...]excusable, when neither promises, nor [...]reats will move us to imbrace free mercy. [...]ct. 13. 46. Then Paul and Barnabas waxed [...]ld and said, it was necessary the word of God [...]ould first have been spoken unto you: but seeing [...] put it from you, and judge your selves unworthy [...] everlasting life, lo we we turn to the Gentiles. [...]d in the 51. vers. And they shook off the dust [...] their feet against them, and came to Jerusalem. [...]r the further proofe of this see Act. 18. [...] 7.

Thirdly, that the grace of God might as [...]ll appear in giving power to believe, as giving Christ, and in him forgivenesse of [...]nes to be believed. Rom. 9. 16. So then it [...]ot of him that willeth nor of him that runneth, [...] of God sheweth mercy. Rom. 11. 6, 7. [...]d if by grace, then it is no more of works.

Fourthly, that we might apply our selves to God in the use of those means that [...]hath appointed for the working of faith [...]s. Joh. 6. 27. Labour not for the meat that [...]sheth, but for that which endureth to ever­lasting [Page 84] life, &c. Isa. 55. 3. Incline your ear an [...] come unto me, heare and your soul shall live, [...]c▪ Rom. 10. 17. Faith cometh by hearing, and hear­ing by the word of God.

Fifthly, that we might wholly deny ou [...] selves, and search, and by seeking find in th [...] Covenant of grace matter of free convey­ance of power to believe whatsoever is re­quired to be believed. Rom. 4. 16. Rom. 3. 24▪ & Psal. 119. 104, 105. Joh. 5. 39.

Again, when we look into the Old o [...] New Testament, and there find a comman [...] wherein thou art required to be acting an [...] doing something for God.

1. Consider, thou hast a power alread [...] given forth to thee, by which thou art [...] ble to do the thing required.

2. Or else with the command the Lor [...] conveyes a power to enable thee to do th [...] thing commanded.

3. When thou lookest upon the Co [...] ­mand on thy left hand, then look upon t [...] Promise on thy right hand, wherein t [...] Lord God hath promised to assist thee, a [...] not to faile thee nor forsake thee. For I d [...] know no precept but hath its promis [...] though not alwayes in the same chapter [...] verse.

4. For our more careful practising, [...] [Page 85] [...]g and observing all the commands of our God, consider these three things.

1. As he hath promised to enable thee,

2. So he hath promised to reward thee [...]or doing thy duty: so that to every pre­ [...]pt there is two promises, the one to en­ [...]le thee, the other to reward thee, and [...]oth to encourage thee.

3. And in case of slothfulnesse and neg­ [...]gence in leaving undone what we ought [...]nd might have done,

1. The Lord complains on us.

2. He exhorts us, Be not slothfull in busines, [...]t servent in spirit serving the Lord.

3. He threatens us, saying, Because I have [...]lled and you have refused, you shall call, and I [...]ill not answer.

4. He tels us that we have forsaken our own [...]ercy; He put a price into our hands, but [...]e as fools had no heart to it; and so our [...]struction is of our selves: O Israel, thou [...]ast destroyed thy self.

Oh then, that all the Lords inheritance, [...]aints by calling, Sons of Sion, would take [...]e Lords advice in these and the like com­ [...]ands, yea in all the will of God! Phil. 2. [...]2. Wherefore my beloved, as you have alwayes [...]eyed not only in my presence, but now much more [...] my absence, work out your own salvation witle [...]ar & trembling.

[Page 86] Q. How shall I do that? (thou wilt say.) A. Peter, being filled with the Holy Ghost, shewes thee and me how we ma [...] do it. 2 Pet. 1. 5, 6, &c. And besides this, giv [...] all diligence; adde to your faith vertue, and [...] vertue knowledge, and to knowledge temperance and to temperance patience, and to patience godli­nesse, and to godlinesse brotherly kindnesse, and t [...] brotherly kindnesse charity: For if these things b [...] in you and abound, they make you that you sha [...] neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowled [...] of our Lord Iesus Christ; but he that lacketh the [...] things is blind and cannot see afar off. Wherefor [...] give all diligence to make your calling and elect [...] sure, for so an entrance shall be ministred unto yo [...] abundantly into the everlasting kingdome of [...] Lord and Saviour Iesus Christ.

Wherefore I will imploy my power saith Peter, vers. 12. I will not be negligen [...] put you alwayes in remembrance of these thing yea I think it meet aslong as I am in this tabern [...] ­ [...]le to stir you up by putting you in remembranc [...] Now if Peter had no spiritual strength, ho [...] could he stir them up to spiritual things and if the people to whom he spake had n [...] power, how could they be doing the thing commanded?

Now thou, O most excellent peece of a [...] Gods workmanship, Man and Woman [Page 87] whosoever thou art that readest these lines, [...]deavour to know thy own strength, that [...]ou mayest imploy and improve it for him [...]at gave it. Study thy self; examine, what [...] I able to doe by vertue of that power [...]hich I have received from God? Surely I [...]ave left many things undone for this very [...]ason, I was unable to do it. It is true, I saw [...]n the one hand, that I could of my self do [...]othing; but I did not see on the other and, that I could do all things through [...]hrist enabling me.

It is a blessed thing to improve the power [...]ceived, in making use of the present op­ [...]ortunity; and it is a dangerous case to [...]eglect it.

1. Because it may be thou mayest not [...]ave another opportunity. Prov. 1. 24. 26. [...]at. 23. 37, 38.

2. Because if he give another opportu­ [...]ity, thou art not sure to live to see it.

3. Because, if he doth give another op­ [...]ortunity, and thou live to see it, yet thou [...]aving sleighted the Spirit at first, thou art most like to do so still, Heb. 3. 13. Act. 7. 51. [...] Tim. 3. 8.

4. Because if the Lord doth give thee an­ [...]ther opportunity, and thou live to see it [...]nd imbrace it, yet thou hast hindred thy [Page 88] self exceedingly, and hast lost thy sight o [...] Christ for many dayes. Joh. 20. 24, 25▪ A man that knowes not his own strength is like unto a man that hath a great summ [...] of mony that lieth in a corner, and he dot [...] not improve it, and so gets nothing by it for he knows not of it; he hath a Talen [...] but it is hid in a napkin and buried in th [...] earth.

1. I do but ask thee (O man) whosoeve [...] thou art that readest these lines, dost tho [...] not think in thine own conscience, tha [...] there is many a man and woman belongin [...] to the Election of grace, that do die in d [...] ­spair (as it were) and without assurance i [...] point of manifestation, that might have r [...] ­signed up their souls to God in full assu­rance, if they had obeyed God in giving [...] diligence to make their calling and election sure 2 Pet. 1. 10.

2. Again let me ask thee, whether tho [...] dost not think in thy conscience that mo [...] men and women, with Martha, are trouble about many things, whereas they might wit [...] Mary, choose the better part. Luk. 10. 41, 42.

3. Again, I do but ask thee whether tho [...] dost not deprive thy self of thy comfortabl [...] well-being here in this life, by thy not look­ing more narrowly to thy conversation 2 Cor. 1. 12.

[Page 89] Many things more might be here recited [...] the confirmation of this truth, That [...]re is a power natural, and a power spiritual; [...]d the neglect of the improvement of each is sin­ [...]ll. But at present I shall be silent to make [...]y further progresse therein, only I shall [...]deavour to answer some objections that [...]ply may arise against it; and then I shall [...]e you a few reasons why I have written [...]is, and shew you the necessity that we have [...] knowing this power, by the danger of [...]t knowing it.

First I shall endeavour to answer a few [...]bjections that haply may arise in the [...]oughts of some against it; and so much [...]e rather, because I know that we live in [...] age wherein some men make it the great­ [...] peace of their Religion to lie at catch, [...]d to esteem very highly of themselves and [...]eir own judgments, and undervalue o­ [...]ers, as the proud Pharisee, Luk. 18. 11, 12. [...]d quite contrary to the command of [...]od, Phil. 2. Let each esteem others better then [...]emselves. But to proceed.

Ob. 1. If there be a natural power in all, [...]d a spiritual power in some, by vertue [...]hereof they can act and do act: then I [...]umbly conceive, that you must either by [...]olding this dostr [...]y Free-grace, or else hold [...]ree-will.

[Page 90] A. I answer: In all that I have said [...] done concerning the natural or spiritu [...] power, I have endeavoured to fail b [...]twe [...] these two rocks, that I might not deny t [...] one, nor hold the other: for if my [...] should sail against either of these two roc [...] all hopes of coming safe to land would [...] taken from mine eyes.

First, I have not destroyed Free-gra [...] neither undervalued it in any measure; [...] I have said before, that all our springs a [...] in him, and all our supplies are from hi [...] and that all power centers in him as t [...] Fountain from whence all small streams [...] power do flow. I have affirmed furthe [...] that as this power was given freely to [...] from him, so it is limited in us by him; a [...] when the creature hath improved his po [...] ­er to the highest, he hath done but his dut [...] Luk. 17. 10.

Our salvation is of Free-grace notwit [...] ­standing: I have not said that our impr [...] ­ving, or not improving our power, c [...] save us, or damn us: But this I have affir [...] ­ed and do affirm, that by our non-improv [...] ­ment it will exceedingly harm us; for [...] shall lose much of our outward, and pe [...] ­haps inward joy and comfort both in [...] and death; I do not say, our eternal we [...] [Page 91] being doth depend upon it. All our sal­ [...]ion is of Free-grace from God through [...] redemption of the Son, and evidence of Spirit.

1. So that our obedience is not the cause [...] our salvation; for Gods love was the [...]fe. Joh. 3. For God so loved the world, &c.

2. Our obedience and good works is [...]t the way; for Christ is the way, the truth [...] the life.

3. Our improvement of our power in [...]y of good works, is not the evidence as [...]our selves, for that is the work of the [...]irit of God in us.

4. But our good works do glorifie God [...]d inform and edifie our neighbours.

First they glorifie God, Mat. 5. 16.

Secondly it doth inform our neighbour; [...] he cannot judge of us but by our fruits, [...] shall know a tree by its fruits, saith Christ.

Thirdly, it doth edifie our neighbour, [...]en every step of our conversation is an [...]truction to him: and the Apostle saith, [...]t some are won to God by the good [...]nversation of others.

2. And as for Free-will in man, I know [...]ne, unlesse it be such a Free-will as was [...] Paul, Rom. 7. 18. For to will is present with [...]. and ver. 13. When I would do good, evil is [Page 92] present with me. I know no Free-will th [...] unlesse it be a free-will to sin. A man na [...] ­rally cannot act in things supernatur [...] as to instance, a man cannot believe, unl [...] the Spirit of God work faith in the sou [...] and yet a man according to common p [...] ­vidence may bring his body to the O [...] ­nance of Hearing, which is the means or [...] ­narily by which the Lord doth work fai [...] Rom. 10. 17. But he, the Lord God [...] mighty, is the Author and finisher of Heb. 12. 2. And he makes us willing a [...] desirous to have it wrought in us: so t [...] he doth not work it whether we will no. So the Holy Ghost, that works fai [...] is not said to believe; Man is said to [...] ­lieve.

Now though man cannot believe of hi [...] self, without the power of the Lord; [...] man is to attend upon all means, as heari [...] reading, meditation, conference: for th [...] be his appointments, and he hath promi [...] his presence in, and blessing upon the us [...] these means to make them effectual. H [...] it is that the Lord commands us to wait him in the use of means. Prov. 20. 22. [...] wait on the Lord, and he shall save thee. Isa. [...] Blessed be all they that wait for him. Isa [...] 31. [Page 93] [...]y that wait upon the Lord shall renew their [...]gth. Isa. 49. 23. For they shall not be asha­ [...] that wait for me. Lam. 3 25. The Lord is [...] unto them that wait for him, to the soule [...] seeks him. Isa 64. 4. Eye hath not seen, [...] hath not heard what the Lord hath prepared [...]hose that wait for him.

Now a man cannot be said to wait upon [...]d, unlesse he wait upon him in the use of [...]ans, to which he hath promised his pre­ [...]ce, which are his appointments and [...]lks, wherein he hath been, now is, and [...]eafter will be found.

Next I shall come unto the Reasons why [...]ave written of the Natural and Spiritual [...]wer, viz.

First, I have heard many say, They ought [...] to pray, read, meditate, conferre, or assemble [...]mselves together, to the practice of any known [...]y, untill the Spirit by its fresh gales and move­ [...]s put them upon it; And I am mightily mi­ [...]ken, if some have not staid so long for [...]se fresh gales and movings of the Spirit, [...]till they have quite forgotten to pray, or [...]ar, or conferr of any spiritual thing, un­ [...]se it be in a carnal way: Now it is true, [...]at is the principal time in which a Soule [...]ght to act, but not the onely time; I say [...]ain, It is the principal time, but not the [Page 94] onely time. First, that it is the princ [...] time, I have no need to prove; for all [...] ­tional men will and doe grant that: [...] then, secondly, It is not the onely ti [...] for we finde that the command lies up [...] us as well at one time as another; ne [...] there is no time, in which we are not [...] want, and therefore need still to seek. [...] ­gain, we finde in Scripture, written for [...] learning, that the Saints acted sometimes [...] their greatest deadnesse and coldnesse, as D [...] ­vid and others; When they found the [...] ­selves dead and dull, cold and slothfull, [...] we finde they stir up them selves as men, s [...] ­sible of their state: to instance in one [...] all, Psal. 119. 25. Quicken thou me after [...] loving kindenesse, so shall I keep the testimony thy mouth, &c. Again, Psal. 119. 170. I [...] afflicted very much, quicken me O Lord, accordi [...] to thy word: So vers. 159, &c. so in Psal [...] 153. verse 11. Quicken me, O Lord, for t [...] name sake: so in another place, he praye [...] Renew a right Spirit within me; and agai [...] Restore again to me the joy of thy salvation. In word, let me ask thee O man, who is it tha [...] doth let us see our unfitnesse, luke warmne [...] and coldnesse? Doth not God discover thi [...] by his Spirit? and doth not the same Sp [...] ­rit that doth enable us to see our want [...] [Page 95] move us to seek for supplies from the foun­ [...]in; as it is said in Job, The Lord speaketh [...]ce, yea twice, and man perceives it not. So I [...]ow by experience in my self and others, [...]at we have many movings and stirrings [...] the Spirit of God within us; and either [...]e take no notice of it, or if we do, we que­ [...]ion in our selves, whether it be the stir­ [...]ngs of the good Spirit, or proceeds not [...]om the evil Spirit? And so we cease to [...]t, because we be unsatisfied. But in some [...]ses the Spirit that doth move us to it, [...]ill undoubtedly carry us forth to the do­ [...]g of what it moves us to; What are we, [...]ith the Scriptures, that we could withstand [...]e Spirit?

But in other cases we are said (as in the [...]cts) to resist the Holy Ghost; and in another [...]cripture, Quench not the Spirit, and be not un­ [...]itfull to the Spirit of God; and grieve not the [...]pirit of God, whereby you are sealed to the day [...] Redemption. It will be of singular use [...]hen to Christians, to endeavour to dis­ [...]ern between the motions of the Spirit of God from the motions of our own spirits; [...]hat when we finde a motion begin to arise [...]n us, before it come to action, we may [...]ither suppresse it, or cherish it: if it come [...]rom our own spirits, then to quench it, [Page 96] and bring it into captivity to the obedien [...] of Christ; If from the Spirit of God, th [...] let the motion arise, let thy will will t [...] thing, let thine affections affect it, that [...] that motion may end in action.

Object. But how shall I know, when t [...] motion doth arise from the Spirit of Go [...] and not from mine own spirit?

Answ. 1. The motions of the Lords Sp [...] ­rit doth move thee to that, and onely tha [...] which is agreeable to the spiritual sense [...] the Scriptures.

2. The true Spirit doth move us to tha [...] which doth tend to the denying of o [...] ­selves, and the exalting of God alone in th [...] person of Jesus Christ; See Joh. 16. 13, 14.

3. The motions of Gods Spirit are no [...] carried on, but with abundance of oppos [...] ­tion; opposition within you and witho [...] you, on the right hand and on the left.

4. When two motions arise within yo [...] together, as it were, and both seem to be a [...] ­cording to the Scripture, and both seem t [...] exalt God, and to deny self; then befo [...] thou prosecute either, consider as in th [...] presence of God, whose servant thou ar [...] which of these things that I am moved unt [...] will be most for the honour of God? the [...] that doe: If the Mistresse command the Se [...] ­vant [Page 97] to clean such a room immediately, and [...] to touch any thing till that be done; [...]iles the Maid is in the midst of her [...]rk, the childe falls in the fire; the servant [...]ves the work, and runs and takes up the [...]lde, and is commended of her Mistresse [...] so doing: So that which doth make [...]st for the glory of God, and for our spi­ [...]ual advantage, is first to to be done, and [...]th undoubtedly proceed from the Spirit [...] God. I might instance in many other [...]ticulars, as to examine the rise of the [...]tion, next the prosecution, and thirdly [...] ends, but I forbear: So then the first [...]son why I have endeavoured to prove [...]re is a power natural, and a power spi­ [...]ual, is, that we might so know it, as to [...]ploy it to the best advantage.

A second reason is, to prevent as much [...]n me lyeth, the further spreading of [...]se grosse and dangerous errours that [...]l follow, if there be not a power in the [...]ature which he hath received from the [...]eator, either in his Creation or Rege­ [...]ation to prevent those evils.

First, if there be not a power in men [...]ther natural or spiritual, but onely [...]d in them; then all the creatures abuse [...] nature, laid to the creatures charge in [Page 98] the first and second Chapters of the Rom [...] must be taken off the creature, and laid [...] on God.

Secondly, if there be no spiritual po [...] in a man spiritualized; then it is no sin [...] him to neglect all spiritual duties, and he may charge all his omissions, and all [...] commissions upon his Maker. For he wo [...] have done whatsoever he had been c [...] ­manded, if he had received any power: Y [...] might have been teachers of others by [...] time, if you had improved your pow [...] saith Paul, Heb. 5. 12.

This people did not answere the Lo [...] and say they had no powere: and so for th [...] commissions they did not charge them [...] on God, as our Ranters do at this day; a [...] that they be liars, St. James will testi [...] 1 James 13. 14, 15, 16. in the 13. vers. [...] no man say when he is tempted, he is tempte [...] God, for God cannot be tempted with evil, nei [...] tempteth he any man; v. 14. But euery ma [...] tempted when he is drawn away of his own [...] and inticed. v. 15. Then when lust hath concei [...] it bringeth forth sin, and sin when it is fini [...] bringeth forth death. v. v. 16. Do not erre my [...] ved b ethren. Whosoever then doth cha [...] the most ighteous God with our unri [...] ­teous actions, doth erre in the highest [...] ­ture.

[Page 99] I have admired at the subtilty of Sathan, [...]nd the simplenesse of men, to say, That [...]od is the authour of sin; these be liars, [...]ke their father the Devil who was a liar [...]om the beginning. Let me tell thee, O [...]in man, let me tell thee, That the Al­ [...]ighty God cannot commit sinne if he [...]ould: for if thou didst know what God is, [...]d what man is; if thou didst know what is [...]e nature of God, and what is the nature [...] sin, thou wouldest know that they can­ [...]t dwell together.

Now sin is a transgression of a Law, but [...]od is under no Law, and therefore cannot [...]nsgresse; there is none above God to give [...]ule to him by which he should walk; [...]erefore his own will in his rule; he is [...]odnesse it self, and therefore cannot do [...]y thing but what is good.

So that which is justly called sin in us, [...]nnot be called sin in him, if he should do [...] same thing, viz. If thou kill a man [...]ou hast sinned against the Law of God, [...]d the Law of Nature, and against the [...]ws of men: if God overthrow Pharoah [...]d all his host in the Red-sea, he hath done [...]evil, he hath broken no Law; if he send the [...]tilence and slay every man in the City, hath not sinned; if he drown all the [Page 100] world at once, he hath committed [...] evill.

If thou or I should take any thing that another mans, from a thread to a shoo [...] latchet, we have sinned by thest:

But if the Lord command the Isra [...]li [...] to borrow Jewels of silver, and of gol [...] and rayment of the Aegyptians: the Lo [...] hath not sinned in bidding them do it, n [...] they in taking it, Wherefore let God be true, [...] every man a liar. Canst not thou be content [...] to father thy sin upon thy brother or siste [...] or neighbour, as thou doest many times; b [...] must thou father it upon the most ho [...] Lord? doest thou know what thou dost [...] in this thing? will he not be avenged [...] such a wretch as thee? Oh remember fr [...] whence thou art fallen and repent.

And now to wind up all that I shal at pr [...] ­sent say to the Power of the Creator giuen fo [...] to the creature. Let me tell thee, if thou find [...] any thing required of thee to be done, & h [...] no ability to do it; consider there was ab [...] ­lity once given thee in the first Adam, whi [...] thou hast lost by thy fall in him, and it [...] just with God to require that now of th [...] which once he gave thee: then consider t [...] as thou hast lost by the first Adam, so th [...] hast gotten by the second Adam; so th [...] [Page 101] [...] enabling thee, thou canst (with Paul) [...] all things.

[...]nd that will be the next thing that I shall [...]deavour to lay before thee; Thy fall in [...]e first, and the manner there of; and thy [...]stauration by the second Adam, and the [...]ory there of. And do desire, that some [...]e or other that hath a greater discovery [...] the mind of God in these things, con­ [...]rning The power of God, and the power of the [...]eature; concerning the power Natural, and [...]e power Spiritual: I should intreat them to [...]ld it forth to publique view; for I am [...]re there is great necessity of it, that man [...]ight know his own strength.

For I am consident, that I my self and [...]any others have left undone many things [...]at we ought and might have done, for [...]ot knowing our own strength where with [...]od, even the God of power had strength­ [...]ed us. Wherefore I do in the presence of [...]y Maker declare unto the whole world, [...]hat I was not straightened in him, but in [...]ine own bowels; That he hath not been [...]anting to me, first not only to give me [...]ength, but secondly to supply me in re­ [...]wing that strength day by day. Where­ [...]re let God be true, and I and all neglecters, if [...]e charge God with not enabling us, lyars. [Page 102] Rom. 3. 4. Let God be true and every man a lya [...] Oh then, let not the righteous God [...] charged with your unrighteousnesse! an [...] let not the most holy God be charged wi [...] your unholinesse! But stirre up the talent th [...] is in thee, as in 2 Pet. 1. 13.

Do as Jacob did, wrestle with God, l [...] him not go till he blesse thee; give him n [...] rest till he make Jerusalem the praise of t [...] whole earth. Isa. 52. 1. Awake, put on t [...] strength O Sion, put on thy beautiful garment [...] O Jerusalem, thou holy City, open to hi [...] for he now knocks; flie to this City of r [...] ­fuge, and thou shalt be safe: For the name [...] the Lord is a strong tower, the righteous run to [...] and are safe. If thou didst but see him, tho [...] wouldest admire him, and count all thing [...] vanity in comparison of him: if thou did [...] but know him, thou wouldst be so ravishe [...] with the love of him, that many waters co [...] not quench it: If thou didst but taste hi [...] thou wouldst hunger and thirst after hi [...] more then doth the Hart after the water [...] brooks. Oh taste and see that God is gracious It's life to know him, it's heaven to behol [...] him, it's melody to hear him, it's endless [...] happinesse to enjoy him. Let it be our ca [...] to obey him, and improve all our strengt [...] for him: let us not spend our money for th [...] [Page 103] which is not bread, and our pains for that which [...]l not profit. Let us run the wayes of his com­ [...]ndments, for he hath enlarged our heart, and [...]d, that he that doth these things shall never [...]moved. Improve thy power for him, part [...]th thine estate for him; give, and it shall be [...]en thee again, Luk. 6. 38. Good measure pressed [...]n and shaken together and running over.

Me thinks I hear the voice of thy Saviour [...]ing to thee: O thou obedient sonne, come, [...]e, thou hast been faithful in a little, I will [...]e thee more; come, enter into thy Masters joy; [...] thine obedience to me did arise from thine in­ [...]est in me, manifested to thee by me.

NOw I shall speak to our Fall in the first Adam, and of the subtlety of Sathan [...]erein.

There be two things of absolute necessity [...]r a Christian to be well acquainted with, [...]z.

• 1. Our fall in the first Adam.
• 2. Our restauration by the second A­ [...]am.

Upon these two points doe the two [...]estaments frequently treat; insomuch [...]hat thou canst hardly read one Chapter, [...]ut (more or lesse) thou shalt find the Pro­ [...]het, or Apostle speaking to one or both [Page 104] states, or something conducing thereunt [...] and some Chapters speaking and treati [...] wholly of that two fold state, as Rom. 5. & [...] Nay, I have observed, that when I ha [...] heard a Gospel-Sermon, wherein were m [...] ­ny particulars; or when J have heard go [...] ly men in a long debate about the prin [...] ­ples of religion; I have (J say) observ [...] that the summe and substance of their d [...] course or teaching hath for the most pa [...] been to shew what men were in the first [...] ­dam, and the misery of all in that state; [...] else what they be in the second Adam, a [...] the glory of that state. And when my m [...] ­mory hath been too weak to comprehe [...] the abundance of particulars that J ha [...] heard, J referre all that J have heard [...] these two particulars, and found singul [...] benefit thereby, viz. What do J know mo [...] now by all that J have heard this day, th [...] J did before, of the state J was in, a [...] of the state J am now in?

First then of the first Adam, the Scriptu [...] speak of him in a two fold state.

• 1. The first is the state of innocencie b [...] ­fore he fell.
• 2. And secondly of his state of mise [...] after he was fallen.

Of the first of these states J shall say n [...] [Page 105] thing, it being well known to most men; [...]d of the second of these states, I shall speak [...]r write but a very few words.

Adam and Eve being in Paradise, and [...]oking upon themselves as indeed they [...]ere the most excellent peeces of all the [...]reation, bearing the Image of their Crea­ [...]or; the Lord left them a Law, and left them [...]o the freedome of their own will; if they [...]id obey, to live; if they did disobey, to dye. [...]ut through the temptation of Sathan, [...]hey both soon cast off their Makers pre­ [...]epts, and through the temptation of Sa­ [...]han they transgressed the commandement [...]f God in eating the forbidden fruit, and [...]hereby fell from the state of innocency [...]herein they were created, and so brought [...]pon them and all their seed, the losse of [...]ommunion with God, and his displeasure, [...]nd obtained a curse, so as we are by nature [...]he children of wrath, bondslaves to Sa­ [...]han, and justly liable to all punishments [...]n this world, and that which is to [...]ome.

O thou Adam, what hast thou done? for [...]hough it was thou that sinned, thou art [...]ot fallen alone, but we all that came of [...]hee! O the infectiousnesse of Sinne, ten [...]housand times more infections then the [Page 106] Plague and Pestilence; for many have live [...] in the City when the noysome Pestilen [...] hath been, and yet have been free: but b [...] hold this original transgression hath sprea [...] it self into all the corners of the earth; [...] that no man, woman, or childe, that eve [...] was, now is, or hereafter shall be, is fr [...] from that infection; and that original sin [...] as the root, bringeth forth actual transgre [...] ­sion as the branches; sins of omission, o [...] commission, as the fruit.

Oh thou Adam, what hast thou done? [...] though it was thou that hast sinned, tho [...] art not fallen alone; but we all that came [...] thee, as being then in thee, are infected b [...] thee: O miserable men that we are, who shall [...] liver us from this body of death!

Thus much of the nature of the Fall: no [...] of the manner of the Fall, and of the subtil [...] of the Devil, that old Serpent therei [...] He himself being fallen, comes to the Ga [...] ­den in the form of a Serpent, out of env [...] to mans happinesse, he boards the woma [...] thus: Hath God said, Ye shall not eat thereof as if he should have said, It is a likely ma [...] ­ter that the Lord cares what you eat; wha [...] do you think that he stands upon an apple [...] hath he created all things for you? then d [...] ye use them. This is the first assault, whic [...] [Page 107] [...] woman weakly resisteth, beginning at [...] first to yeeld: whereas God had said, [...]ou shalt dye; she answereth doubtfully and [...]th, Lest I dye: Then the Devil perceiving [...]e woman to stagger, and the ground of [...] faith to shake, plants all his peeces, and [...]epares his Army for a storm; for his name [...]egion, and he had beleagured the wo­ [...]n before. So the word was no sooner [...]t of her mouth, Lest ye dye: but he re­ [...]es, Ye shall not dye at all. What? dye, with [...]ing so fair an Apple? Can there be any [...]rt in it, O filly woman! Ye shall not dye [...]all.

God he affirmeth, Ye shall dye certainly.

The woman saith, Lest ye dye.

The Devil that old Liar, saith, Ye shall [...] dye.

Then not giving the woman any respite [...] be think her self, or to reply: Oh saith he, [...]od knoweth that your eyes shall be ope­ [...]d, and you shall be as gods: as if he should [...]e said, God envies your happinesse, and [...]ove you so well, that I cannot but tell [...]u of it; for he knows very well, that if [...]u should but eat of that Tree, you should [...]e that which you never faw before, and [...]at you shall be as gods. Oh impudent [...]ar▪ for by cating, both Adam, and all we [Page 108] his posterity became more like unto Sath [...] then like unto God: Behold, O filly w [...] man, saith he, what a goodly Tree this how pleasant to the eye, d [...]licate to t [...] taste, divine for use; can it do you a [...] hurt? would any but fools abstain? go [...] eat, and fear not, I will warrant you [...] harm. Then the woman seeing it was go [...] for meat, pleasant to the eyes, and a T [...] to be desired after to get knowledge; [...] took of it and did eat, and by these or [...] like reasons, perswaded her husband, a [...] gave him, and he did eat. O all ye sonn [...] and daughters of Adam, put on all the A [...] ­mour of God; If it be possible, stand up [...] your guard; Set forth your Sentinels; Ma [...] ready for an Enemy which hath slain yo [...] Father, deceived your Mother, cheated a [...] almost undone all your Brethren, defil [...] your Sisters, wounded your Childre [...] and plundred all your Kindred to the sk [...] and left them all as poor as Job; never be peace with him, maintain a continual w [...] against him; acquaint all the men a [...] women in the world of his base deceit [...] cheating tricks, that his ill savour m [...] stinke in the nostrils of all men and wome [...] under the Sun, that they may loath hi [...] and stand upon their guard to oppose hi [...] [Page 109] though his name be Legion, fear him not, [...]is a conquered Enemy: If he meet but [...]e poor Saint in the field cloathed with [...]t a little faith as a grain of mustard-seed, [...]s poor Saint will challenge all the devils [...]hell to give him a meeting; and if they [...]rst to appear, he will but resist them with [...]ittle faith, James 4. 7. Resist the devil, and will flie from you.

For he is a base cowardly beggerly Ene­ [...]y; he is subtle, but there is one that takes [...]re of thee, is wiser then he; he is ancient [...]d experiences, but thy friend is more an­ [...]nt then he; he is a Prince, but thy friend [...] King of Kings; he is swift of motion, [...] can fly in the air, but thy friend hath the [...]avens for his Throne, and the earth for his [...]otstool, filling heaven and earth with his [...]essed presence; though his presence is not [...]anifested to all, yet he is present in all pla­ [...]s at all times, beholding all actions. Oh [...]en keep the word of his patience, that he [...]ay keep thee in the hour of temptation; [...]ld fast the word of God, for with that [...]hrist put Sathan to the worst, Matth. 4, 1, 2, [...], 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.

Next stand upon thy guard at all times, [...] all places, in all companies, in all duties, [...]eep up faith (for thou and I fell in the first [Page 110] Adam through unbelief, and we be rai [...] again in the [...]econd by faith;) so the D [...] is foiled, he thought to conquer us who [...] by unbelief, but we shall overcome him faith; Wherefore above all things take the shi [...] of faith, whereby ye shall be able to quench all [...] fiery darts of the Devil, Eph. 6. 16. & Jam. 4▪

NOW I shall speak to our Restaurati [...] by the second Adam, and of the glo [...] ­ous state of all those that are appointed the Father to be restored by the Son, a [...] sanctified by the Spirit.

If I had the tongue of men and Angels, a [...] understood all mysteries, I could not give th [...] a full and compleat description in each pa [...] ­ticular of the happy and blessed state of t [...] Elect by the Father, that are redeemed [...] the Son, and are or shall be sanctified by t [...] Spirit.

They were servants, but now they [...] Sons and Heirs, they shall be shortly inh [...] ­ritors and enjoyers; they once knew no [...] thing, they do now know in part, they shall shor [...] know as they are known.

They were dead in sinne, they now a [...] quickned from sinne; they are or shall b [...] quite freed from sinne.

They were naked, they be now cloathe [Page 111] with the robe of Innocencie, and they shall [...] cloathed with Immortality.

They were enemies, they be now recon­ [...]led, and shall be saved.

They once with Adam hid from the pre­ [...]nce of God; they now take delight in his [...]refence, and shortly they shall abide in it [...]r ever.

They were Sathans slaves; they now are [...]e Lords Freemen, and shall dwel in Sion: [...]ey were like a beast, they be now like a [...]rince, they shall shortly be like the An­ [...]els.

They did glory in their shame; they now [...]e ashamed of their sinne, they shall shortly [...]e with out and shame.

They were like the dirt and mire most [...]thy; they be now like the Moon in her [...]eauty, and shall shortly be like the Sun in [...]is glory. Oh the depths of the riches boath of [...]e wisdome and knowledge of God! Oh how un­ [...]archable are his judgements, and wayes past [...]ding out!

What is man that thou art mindful of him, or [...]e son of man that thou shouldest regard him!

As in the first Adam we dyed; so in the second [...]e are made alive.

In the first we lost an earthly Paradise; [...]y the second we have gotten a heavenly [Page 112] Paradise. This is that seed of the woma [...] spoken of by the Father to our first Parent [...] that should bruise the Serpents head.

This is he that is called, The repairer [...] the breach, and the restorer of paths to dwell in.

So that what we lost in the first, we hav [...] made good to us by the second Adam, wi [...] many additions, as in Rom. 5. Much mor [...] Much more, Much more; five times in th [...] Chapter is that word, viz. in the 9, 10, 1 [...] 17, 20 verses, which is there laid down [...] declare that our gains by Christ is mo [...] then our losses by our first Father, thoug [...] that was very great.

The first Adam brought us under t [...] breach of the Law, and the curse due ther [...] unto; the second Adam, being the Lord J [...] ­sus Christ the Lord of glory and King [...] Saints, hath delivered us from the La [...] viz.

First, from the curse of the Law.

Secondly, from the condemning pow [...] of the Law.

First, from the curse of the Law, For [...] was made a curse for us, as you may see [...] large, Gal. 3. 10. & 13. v. compared togethe [...] So also upon him was laid the iniquities of us a [...] Isa. 53. 6. and not onely our sinnes, but a [...] the punishments due to us for them, of wh [...] [Page 113] nature, kind, and quality soever, as you [...]y read at large in that fifty third Chapter [...] Isaiah, from the first verse to the last: [...] that whole Chapter, Rom. 6. speaks of [...] sufferings for us, and our freedome by [...]. It would make a larger Volume then [...]ntend to make of this whole Book, if I [...]uld but onely name the Chapters and [...]ses in the Old and New Testament that [...] speak to this thing. So I shall end this [...] point with the words of Pa [...] He was [...]de sinne for us, that knew no sin [...], that we [...]ht be made the righteousnesse of God in [...].

Secondly, he hath freed us from the con­ [...]ning power of the Law, to which the [...]iptures speak abundantly; I will men­ [...]n but one or two for all, Rom. 8. 34. Who [...]e that condemneth it is Christ that dyed, &c. [...]o shall lay any thing to the charge of Gods [...]ct? it is God that justifieth. Rom. 8. 1. There is condemnation to them that are in Christ; (and you desire to know who they are) th [...]y [...] those that walk not after the flesh, but after [...] Spirit. Nay in a sense, being warily under­ [...]od, we are delivered from the moral Law Christ Jesus the second Adam.

There is the Ceremonial Law, and the [...]itical Law; the Judicial Law, and the [Page 114] Moral Law: that we are delivered from [...] two former, most of us do know; a [...] that in a sense being warily understood, [...] are delivered from the two latter, very [...] do know.

If the Scriptures do say we be not un [...] the Law, why is it thought such an i [...] proper word for a Christian to say too?