Gods Promises are for the most part conditional. [ 1412]
A Proclamation is read,* 1.1 wherein a Christian King grants honour and Wealth to certain of his Subjects, with assurance of donation upon their just de∣mand: One amongst the Multitude leaps at the news, springs away, and stayes not to hear it out; there is a Condition following, provided first, That they put on Arms, and expell the Turk which infests some part of his dominions. This Man comes one of the foremost to demand the promised honours, he is asked for a testimony of his Valour and service in the Warrs. Alas, He never tarried to hear that condition, and therefore lost the Retribution. Thus it is, that God promiseth etern••l life to M••n; but withall chargeth them to believe in Christ, and to do him faithful service against the World, the Flesh, and the Devill; but so it is, that many are quite lost, for not staying to hear the Proclamation of the Gospel out, they run away with opinion of sufficient belief, and never think of obedience; Whereas the Promises of God are conditional, made up with Provisoes. As there is a reward promised, so there is a Condition premised; It must be our Obedience first, and then comes in Gods recompence; Our devotion goes before, and his Re∣tribution followes after.