Sect. 1.
That we may the better know this Temp∣tation, * 1.1 let it be considered, what are the fore∣runners thereof, and by what meanes it takes place in the heart possessed of it.
Sometimes it commeth, meerely and one∣ly of the suggestion of the Deuill; which troubleth the phantasie, euen of those which are in that regard innocent, and casteth into their hearts impure and vngodly thoughts. Sometimes againe, it comes vpon men, by an euill custome: when as they willingly lend their eares, to leude and cursed speeches, that immediately tend to the dishonour of God, or the wilfull abuse of his word, his iudge∣ments, and mercies; and vpon the hearing, either giue their applause and approbation, though not expressely; or doe not hinder or stay them, as much as in them lyeth. Other∣whiles, it creepes into the heart of man by degrees, when he beginnes to waxe cold in Gods seruice, to make little conscience of those duties, that immediately concerne his worship, & consequently inures himselfe, to the taking of the name of God in vaine, by often and causelesse swearing, forswearing, cursing, &c. By these and such like meanes, is this foule and horrible tentation conua••∣ed into the minde of man.
Now the danger of it, whether it ariseth