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Inference 5.
* 1.1Did Pilate so stiffly assert and defend the honour of Christ, what doubt can then be made of the success of Christs interest, and the prosperity of his cause; when the very enemies▪ thereof are made to serve it?
Rather than Christ shall want honour, Pilate the man that condemned him, shall do him honour, And as it fared with his person, just so with his interest also. How often have the people of God received choice mercies, from the hands of their enemies? Rev. 12.16. the earth helped the woman, (i. e.) wicked men did the Church service. So that this may singularly relieve us against all our despondencies and fears of the miscarriage of the in∣terest of Christ.
That people can never be ruined, who thrive by their losses: conquer by being conquered: multiply by being diminished. Whose worst enemies are made to do that for them, which friends cannot or dare not do. See you a Heathen Pilate proclaiming the honour and innocency of Christ; God will not want instruments to honour Christ by. If others cannot, his very enemies shall.