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CHAP. XVI. Several Objections of Carnal and Vnregenerate men against the use of the forementioned Means, Answered.
HAving shewed the Means; I come now to answer the Objections which many carnal men pretend against the use of them in order to a new birth.
Obj. 1. Some are ready to object and say, These are indeed likely means, but they find neither strength, nor ability to set upon the practice of them.
A. 1. I would ask thee, whether thou canst in truth say, thou hast not been wanting to thy self in such things as were within thy power and strength? Hast thou not as much power to go into the house of God, as into an Ale-house? to read the holy Scriptures, as Play∣books and Pamphlets? to associate thy self with the Godly, as with the Wicked and Prophane? canst not thou take up a resolution, to abandon thine old sinfull lusts, and to set upon a new course of life? Certainly if thou hast been wanting to thy self in these and such like things, this objection taken from thine own inabi∣lity, is but an idle excuse; and argues rather thine unwillingness, than disability: and know that in the last and great day, thou wilt be damned not so much for thy want of power, as for thy want of will.
2. If thou wilt but put thy self upon the use of Means, thou▪ dost not know what strength thou maist receive from God,* 1.1 and what may be the issue thereof. While Peter was Preaching; the holy Ghost fell on all them that heard the Word. And for ought thou knowest, whilest thou art attending upon the Ministry of the Word, or pray∣ing unto God; the Holy Ghost may fall on thee; and