Presvyteros diplēs timēs axios, or, The true dignity of St. Paul's elder exemplified in the life of ... Mr. Owen Stockton ... with a collection of his observations, experiences and evidences recorded by his own hand : to which is added his funeral sermon / by John Fairfax ...

July 17. 1672. God having opened a door for the free exercise of my Ministry by his Majesties most Gracious Declaration, I was desired both at Ipswich and Colchester to Mi∣nister to them. I had discouragements as from the uncertainty of the times, not know∣ing whether this liberty would continue, or a time of trouble and persecution arise, the differences and animosities that are among Pro∣fessors, and the enmity that is on the part of the Adversaries. I considered of it and had encouragement from the Word thereto, as 1 Pet. 5. 2. 4. with vers. 7. as also from Josh. 1. 9. Joshua had difficult work before him, potent Enemies that dwelt in fenced Cities, the people with whom he had to do, had so exasperated Moses his Spirit by their frequent murmurings, that once he cried out to God to be killed out of hand, that he might not see his own wretchedness, Numb. 11. 15. another time he spake so unadvisedly with his lips that he angred God, and was shut out of Canaan. Joshua might well fear when he was to enter on this work. Therefore God speaks four times to him to encourage him. Be strong; be of good courage, &c. and gives him two Arguments to encourage him. 1st. His Call, Have not I Commanded thee? 2ly. A pro∣mise of his Presence, as his God. Whence

I Obs. 1. God will be with his people in all places whithersoever they go. 2. The pro∣mise of Gods presence may take off all fears, arising either from the temper of the people with whom we shall have to do, or the diffi∣culty of our work, or strength of Adversa∣ries.