§. 137. Of the occasions and consequences of Saints folly.
THe foresaid degrees of the fall of such as are effectually called and regen•…•… do happen partly by reason of outward temptations (as Lot was tempted 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his daughters, Gen. 19. 31, &c. and Peter by those that saw him at the High▪ 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Hall, Matth. 26. 69.) and partly by those inward corruptions that remain in the For though they be truly regenerate, yet they are but in part regenerate. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 flesh remaineth in the best so long as they remain in this flesh, Rom. 7. 18, &c.
Particular corruptions which occasion Saints fals, are these:
- 1. High-mindedness. Thus much the Apostle implies by this admonition, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 not high-minded but fear, Rom. 11. 20.
- 2. Self-conceitedness. This was it that made Laodicea lukewarm: she th•…•… she had need of nothing, Rev. 3. 16, 17.
- 3. Overmuch confidence. This was the occasion of Peters fall, M•…•… 26. 33.
- 4. Too much boldnesse. Solomon was too bold in suffering his wives to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 each of them their own gods: thereupon he himself went after other gods, 1 〈◊〉〈◊〉 11. 5, &c.
- 5. Too great security. David was overtaken hereby, 2 Sam. 11. 2.
- 6. Too little fear and jealousie over ones self. By this means was Lot sed•…•… Gen. 19. 33.
In that true Saints have such occasions of falling so farre and so foully as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 foresaid instances do demonstrate, the Apostles caveat of taking heed, is 〈◊〉〈◊〉